Visiting an Orthodox church for the first time can be unfamiliar. At Holy Trinity, you are welcome to come, observe, ask questions, and experience the worship of the Orthodox Christian Church. You do not need to be Greek or Orthodox to attend our services.
Here are a few things that may help you prepare for your first visit.
On Sundays, Matins begins at 8:30 AM and the Divine Liturgy begins at 9:30 AM. If this is your first visit, we recommend arriving a few minutes before the Divine Liturgy begins so you have time to find a seat and get settled.
Our schedule changes for feast days and other services throughout the week, so please check the Parish Calendar for the most current schedule.
Orthodox worship engages all the senses. You will see icons and candles, hear chanting and prayers, smell incense, and notice people making the sign of the Cross, bowing, and standing at various points during the service.
Don't worry about trying to follow everything or knowing what to do. You are welcome to simply observe, pray, and experience the service at your own pace.
There is no need to dress a certain way to visit Holy Trinity. We simply ask everyone to wear clothing that is respectful and appropriate for worship.
Please don't let concerns about what to wear keep you from visiting. We would much rather have you with us.
Absolutely. Children are an important part of our parish family and are welcome in worship.
Don't worry if your children make some noise or need to move around. Orthodox children learn to worship by being present and participating in the life of the Church.
Holy Communion is received by Orthodox Christians who have prepared to receive according to the practice of the Church. If you are not Orthodox, we warmly invite you to remain with us during Communion and continue participating in the service.
If you have questions about receiving Communion, please speak with Father Ioannis before the service.
Not at all. Holy Trinity is part of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, but our parish family includes people from many backgrounds.
You do not need to be Greek, speak Greek, or have any previous experience with Orthodox Christianity to worship with us.
Holy Trinity is located at 227 Cumberland Avenue in Asheville.
You may park anywhere in our newly paved lot. Once the lot is full street parking is available in our neighborhood.
If you need assistance with accessibility or have questions before your visit, please contact the parish office.
Following the Divine Liturgy, everyone is invited to join us for fellowship. Visitors are warmly welcome to stay, meet members of our parish, and introduce themselves to Father Ioannis.
If you are interested in learning more about Orthodox Christianity or becoming a member of the Orthodox Church, you don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out.
Begin by visiting, experiencing the worship of the Church, and making an appointment with Father Ioannis. We would be glad to help you learn more about the Orthodox faith and discuss the next steps when you are ready.