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The Orthodox Church of St. John the Russian

For Inquirers & Visitors

Welcome!

When visiting the Orthodox Church of Saint John the Russian, expect a welcoming and reverent atmosphere. The service includes chanting, incense, and icons, and standing is the primary posture. English is the main language used. Please dress modestly. Visitors are welcome to sit if needed but should not take communion.

After the Sunday morning Liturgy, you are invited to join us for a meal, where you can speak with a priest or members of the congregation if you have any questions.

Our parish was founded in 1976 and falls under the Omophorion of Metropolitan Nicholas of Eastern America and New York, First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR).

What to Expect

  • Orthodox worship engages all the senses with incense, icons, candles, and beautiful chanting. If you don't know what to do, you can just observe the service or follow the lead of the parishioners around you.
  • We stand for most of the service, though seats are available for the elderly and infirm.
  • Modest dress is required: headcovers and covered shoulders and legs for women, and semiformal dress for men.
  • Holy Communion is reserved for baptized and chrismated Orthodox Christians only.
  • Everyone is welcome to receive blessed bread (antidoron) at the end of service.

Service Schedule

Note: We follow the Old Calendar (Julian)

How to Find Us

The Orthodox Church of St. John the Russian

16 Mt Pleasant Ave, Ipswich, MA 01938

Parking

34 Lafayette Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938

Additional Parking Information

Parking is available in the church lot and along nearby streets, including Lafayette Rd, Prescott Rd (in front of the church), Mt. Pleasant Ave, and the open lot near the bottom of Riley Ave off Washington St.

Frequently Asked Questions

Orthodox Christianity is the original Christian Church established by Jesus Christ and His apostles. It maintains the unbroken tradition of faith and practice handed down from the apostles, preserving the fullness of Christian teaching and experience.

Becoming Orthodox involves a period of learning, participating in church life, and spiritual formation called catechesis. This process culminates in the sacraments of baptism and/or chrismation. Please speak with our priest about beginning this journey.

The Divine Liturgy is the primary worship service in the Orthodox Church, where we celebrate the Eucharist (Holy Communion). It is rich in symbolism and has remained essentially the same since the early centuries of Christianity.

Icons are not merely decorative art but "windows into heaven" that help us connect with Christ, the Theotokos (Mother of God), and the saints. They are venerated, not worshipped, as a way to honor those depicted.

Orthodox Christians typically dress modestly and respectfully for services. While there's no strict dress code, business casual attire is common. Women often wear dresses or skirts (though pants are acceptable), and many cover their heads with scarves. Men typically wear slacks and button-up shirts.

Not at all! Our services are open to everyone. Visitors are always welcome to observe and participate to the extent they feel comfortable. However, Holy Communion is reserved for baptized and chrismated Orthodox Christians who have prepared themselves.

We've compiled a list of books that provide a solid introduction to the faith, including works on theology, spirituality, and history. You can find our recommended reading list on this page.

Visit Us

The Orthodox Church of Saint John the Russian is a growing and vibrant community. We extend a prayerful and sincere welcome to all visitors.