Which Parish to visit?
 

Hello, I've been wanting to attend a Divine Liturgy. There are numerous Orthodox Parishes in my area. How do I choose which to attend? I am a mix of nationalities. And feel a bit uncomfortable and intimidated by the idea of walking into a specific ethnic Parish. I am also keeping in the back of my mind the idea of a "home". If I were to take a leap at becoming Orthodox in the future. (If God leads me there)
Are all Parishes welcoming to visitors?
Any advice? Thank!

James,

Every parish - like every family - is unique and has its own characteristics. I would suggest that if you have a choice of various ethnic/national parishes to visit, then visit them all to see what they are like. Some are very welcoming, some less so - however even the most ingrown ethnic ghetto parish will in some way welcome you. You don't say where you are located, however, its my guess that there is someone here who knows at least one or two of the parishes wherever you are (you'd be surprised at how interconnected the Orthodox Church in North America actually is) and can make some suggestions.

Fr David

Fr David,

Thank you for your reply. I am in the Metro Detroit area.

I looked at the Russian Church Abroad parishes in the area. As it happens, I do not know either the priest at Assumption Cathedral in Ferndale nor the one at Holy Trinity in Windsor, Ontario. I do, however, know the priest At St Vladimir's in Ann Arbor and from that knowledge I do not doubt that you find a welcoming atmosphere there. I'm sure there are others on Monachos who know something of other parishes in the Detroit area

Fr David

I've found that the priest is as important as the parish, in that you'll be confessing to the priest, perhaps asking advice, etc., so it's good to find a priest that seems like you could build a trusting relationship with. Don't get anxious too much about making a (so-called) right or wrong decision first off, just pick one and go for a while and see how things turn out. That's my 4 cents anyway.

Go to one that you understand the language. That's all you need. The rest will fall into place.

Paul

I made my decision based on language, really. I felt it important that I be able to participate in worship. Additionally, the OCA tends to be made up of converts mostly. So I knew I'd have a similar background to the parish members. We only have three "cradle Orthodox" at my parish, our priest is even a former Roman Catholic. http://www.monachos.net/forum/images/smilies/smile.png