Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re planning your first visit, learning more about Orthodox Christianity, or simply wondering what to expect, we’re glad you’re here. Visiting an Orthodox church can feel unfamiliar at first, so we’ve answered some common questions in advance to help you feel welcome and prepared.

  • Not at all! Visitors are very welcome to attend the services of the Orthodox Church. Many people visit while exploring Orthodox Christianity or learning more about the life of the Church.

  • Yes. At present, our parish gathers in a Chapel on private property, so we ask any visitors to contact us in advance. That way we can confirm service details and provide directions, as well as answer any questions you may have beforehand.

  • Our services are conducted in English unless otherwise noted, making them accessible to both Orthodox Christians and visitors exploring the faith for the first time.

  • As a sign of reverence in church, modest dress is requested. Men are asked to wear long trousers. Women are asked to wear skirts or dresses, with shoulders and knees covered, together with a head covering.

    If you’re unsure about anything before visiting, please feel free to ask!

  • Orthodox worship is reverent, prayerful, and shaped by the life of the Church through the centuries. Services include chanting, incense, icons, candles, and readings from Holy Scripture.

    If you’re visiting for the first time, there’s no need to worry about knowing exactly what to do. You’re very welcome simply to stand, listen, and become familiar with the prayers of the Church.

    After each service, we typically sit down to share a home cooked meal and discuss the richness of Orthodoxy - we’d love to have you join us!

  • That depends on the service.

    Services like Vespers or The Hours are usually shorter, whereas a full morning of Matins and Divine Liturgy is significantly longer.

    If you’re planning a visit and would like more specific information, please feel free to reach out, we’ll be happy to step you through what to expect on any given day.

  • Holy Communion is reserved for Orthodox Christians who are prepared in accordance with the teaching and practice of the Church.

    If you’re visiting and aren’t Orthodox, or if you’re unsure whether you should receive, please do not approach the Chalice.

    This isn’t because we’re trying to keep people away from God’s grace, or because visitors are unwelcome! The Church treats the Holy Mysteries with great care because they are powerful, holy and not to be approached lightly. In this sense, we’re not ‘protecting the Mysteries from people’, we’re helping protect people as they approach the Mysteries.

    You’re very welcome to attend the service, pray with us as you’re able, and speak with Father Paul or any of our parishioners afterwards. We’d be glad to answer questions and help you understand the path toward full participation in the sacramental life of the Church.

  • Some services are available through our parish livestreams. This can be a helpful way to become familiar with Orthodox worship before visiting in person.

    You can find the list of upcoming livestreamed services on our YouTube channel:

    https://www.youtube.com/@OrthodoxAuckland

  • Sts Cyprian & Justina is a parish of the Genuine Orthodox Church under the Kallinikos Synod. We’re deeply committed to preserving the Orthodox Christian faith, worship and life as it has been handed down in the Church.

    If you’d like to understand more about who we are and why, please see the Our Church page.

  • We’re always glad to hear from sincere inquirers. If you have further questions about visiting or about Orthodox Christianity in general, please feel free to get in touch!