Plan Your Visit
Visiting St. Vladimir's
We're glad you're thinking about visiting! Whether this is your first time in an Orthodox church or you're an Orthodox Christian looking for a new parish home, you are warmly welcome. Here's everything you need to know to plan your visit.
At a Glance
Sunday Liturgy
10:00 AM
Arrive by 9:45 if it's your first visit
Dress
Modest
Parking
Free lot across the street
Street parking also available around the church
Language
English
Services primarily in English
Families
Children are welcome
Kids worship with us — they belong here
What to Expect at Divine Liturgy
The Divine Liturgy is the central worship service of the Orthodox Church. It follows a structure that has remained essentially unchanged for over 1,500 years. You'll experience chanting (we don't use instruments), the reading of Scripture, a short homily (sermon), and the celebration of the Eucharist (Holy Communion).
The service typically lasts about an hour and a half. Don't worry about following along perfectly — it's okay to simply watch, listen, and take it all in. Many people find the first visit a bit overwhelming, and that's completely normal. It gets more familiar each time.
First-timer tip
Arrive about 15 minutes early. This gives you time to find a seat, look around, and get settled before the service begins. Father Volodymyr is always in the church before the service and would love to meet you — don't hesitate to introduce yourself. Parishioners are also happy to help you follow along.
Standing, Sitting, and Crossing
In the Orthodox tradition, the faithful stand for most of the service — but don't let that intimidate you. Our church has pews, and you're welcome to sit whenever you need to. No one will notice or mind.
You'll see people making the sign of the cross frequently, bowing, and venerating (kissing) icons. These are natural expressions of Orthodox prayer, but there is absolutely no expectation for visitors to participate. Feel free to simply stand (or sit) and observe at whatever level you're comfortable with.
What to Wear
There's no strict dress code. We simply ask that you dress modestly. For men, a collared shirt and slacks. For women, a modest blouse & pants or dress. Jeans are fine. The most important thing is that you come!
A Note on Communion
The Orthodox Church practices closed communion, meaning that the Holy Mysteries (the Eucharist, or Holy Communion) are reserved for baptized and chrismated Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves through prayer, fasting, and confession. This reflects the ancient teaching of Holy Tradition that the Holy Mysteries are the Divine Body and Blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, to whom we are united through them.
At the end of the Liturgy, everyone — Orthodox and non-Orthodox alike — is invited to come forward and venerate the Cross. This is a beautiful moment of participation, and we invite you to join us and receive bless bread (antidoron).
Coffee Hour — Please Stay!
After every Sunday Liturgy, we gather in our parish hall for coffee hour — a time of fellowship with food, drinks, and conversation. This is honestly the best part of a first visit. You'll have a chance to meet the priest, talk with parishioners, ask any questions you have, and get a feel for the community. Nobody will pressure you — just friendly conversation over coffee and pastries.
"The best way to experience Orthodoxy is not through a book or a website — it's through the people. Come for the Liturgy, stay for the coffee hour."
Bringing Your Children
Children are not just tolerated at St. Vladimir's — they are welcomed and expected. In the Orthodox Tradition, children worship with everyone from infancy. A little noise and movement from young ones is completely normal and no cause for embarrassment. If your child needs a break, you're welcome to step into the church basement for a moment and return when you're ready.
Getting Here
St. Vladimir Orthodox Church is located at 812 Grand Street, Trenton, NJ 08610. We have a free parking lot directly across the street from the church, and additional street parking is available around the church. The church is easily accessible from Route 1, I-295, and Route 29.
Take a Virtual Tour
Before your visit, you can explore our church from the comfort of your home with our 360-degree virtual tour. See the iconostasis, the Nave, and the beautiful interior that awaits you.
We Look Forward to Seeing You
No appointment needed, no RSVP required. If you have questions before your visit, please reach out.