We are an Orthodox Church, and we are here to share with you the true faith once delivered to the saints. Here in Jacksonville, Florida, there are many churches, temples and other places of worship. Or if you are Orthodox, welcome back home. If you look around, you will notice that our church is adorned with icons, the traditional religious pictures used by Orthodox Christians since the very begin
ning. They are not idols and we do not worship them, but rather icons of the saints and other holy figures that have helped spread the Orthodox faith throughout the world. And they remind us of the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, which we receive each Sunday during Divine Liturgy, this is the central act of worship in the Orthodox Church. Our church services are in English, so you can fully experience the the beauty and tradition of the early Church. Speaking of tradition, you may be wondering why do Orthodox churches have such beautiful icons and chants? Why do we venerate the relics of holy people? Why do we light so many candles? Why do we make the sign of the cross? And why do we bow to the ground before receiving Holy Communion? All these traditions and more have their roots in the teachings of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and the early Church. Though we hold fast to tradition, we also recognize the need for evangelization and sharing the Orthodox faith with everyone. We believe that Orthodoxy is a universal faith open to all people of all backgrounds. If you are searching for the truth, if you want to know more about Orthodoxy, or if you simply want to experience the warmth and fellowship of a truly caring community, we invite you to come and see us. May God bless you and enlighten your mind so that you may know the truth and the truth may set you free. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.