What Does It Mean to Be a Member?
Membership in the Orthodox Church is more than a name on a list—it’s an invitation to belong to a living community of faith. As a member of St. Nicholas, you join us in worship, service, and the sacraments. Whether you’re exploring Orthodoxy for the first time or have been raised in the faith, membership is your formal step into the spiritual and communal life of our parish.
Our parish is built on three foundational pillars:
- Liturgical Life — Participation in our worship and sacraments
- Stewardship — Giving of your time, talents, and resources
- Community — Growing in fellowship and serving one another
How Do You Become a Member?
- Step 1: Come to Church Regular worship is where you’ll experience the heart of our parish. Attend our Sunday Divine Liturgies and other services. Get to know our community in a natural way—many lasting friendships begin here.
- Step 2: Meet Our Priests After a few visits, introduce yourself to one of our clergy. You might meet them at coffee hour after Sunday Liturgy, or call the office to schedule a time to talk. It’s important for both you and your priest to know one another.
- Step 3: Submit Your Stewardship Card Stewardship is at the heart of our faith—it’s about offering your time, talents, and resources to God through the life of the parish. According to Orthodox Archdiocese guidelines, members in good standing must have a current stewardship commitment on file.
- Step 4: Get Involved Dive into parish life. Join a ministry that calls to you—whether it’s the choir, Christian education, outreach, a women’s or men’s group, or any of our many other opportunities. This is where the joy and grace of community become real.
- What’s Different? If you’re new to the Orthodox faith, your journey will take a bit longer—typically 6 months to 2 years—but it’s a beautiful process of discovery and spiritual formation.
- The Inquiry Phase Start by coming to services regularly and meeting with our priest. There’s no rush. Attend at least a few services, ask questions, and see if Orthodoxy feels like home to you. An inquirer is someone seriously exploring the faith.
- Catechism & Formation Once you’re ready, you’ll formally begin catechism—a period of instruction in Orthodox faith, practice, and theology. You’ll:
- Meet with the priest for spiritual direction
- Attend catechism classes (typically 6 months to 1 year)
- Read the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) and the Book of Acts
- Attend services regularly (at least 16 total, with at least 10 being Divine Liturgies)
- Make a life confession with the priest
- Reception into the Church When you and your priest feel ready, you’ll be received into the Church through the Holy Sacraments. If you’ve been baptized in another Christian tradition, you’ll be chrismated (a sacrament similar to confirmation). If not, you’ll be baptized and chrismated. You’ll also choose an Orthodox godparent to support your spiritual journey.
- Member! After your reception, you’ll continue your spiritual growth as a full member of St. Nicholas parish.
Ministries
Find Your Place to Serve
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Agape HOPE & JOY
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Bookstore
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F.R.O.G. Men (Men’s Group)
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GOYA
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Hospitality Team
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Orthodox Mom Squad
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Philoptochos
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Senior’s of the Sea (SOS)
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St. Photini Women’s Study
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Vacation Church School
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The Orthodox Church welcomes all people who desire to live a life in Christ. Whether you’re exploring Orthodoxy for the first time or have been raised in the faith, you’re welcome to become a member.
You would be received into the Orthodox Church through the Sacrament of Chrismation (not baptized again). Our priests can discuss this with you in detail.
Regular participation is important and expected of members in good standing. However, we understand that life happens. The key is building a habit of worship—attending as consistently as you can, making the liturgy a priority in your life.
Stewardship is a personal commitment. There’s no set amount. Some pledge financial giving, some pledge time and service, and many do both. What matters is that you’re making a conscious offering to God through the parish.
Absolutely. Membership is for all believers, regardless of life situation. Our parish has many single members, young adults, and seniors who are vital to our community.
Life circumstances happen—illness, relocation, family challenges. Our door is always open, and our priests are here to support you. Please reach out.