FAQs about our Merced Orthodox Church

Father Alexander Golitzen, our Mission's founding pastor

With the new decade our founding pastor, Fr. Alexander Golitzin, departed the mission for a new ministry: a professor of theology at Marquette University, specializing in the Greek church fathers. The ensuing years in the early 1990s were a time of struggle for our church. By the grace of God, the work here carried on; services were led by either visiting priests or laity.

In 1997, our church purchased a house to use for services and as a Rectory.  In 1998, a full-time Rector (pastor) was appointed.  In 1999, our Mission received a grant from the national Orthodox Church in America, and outgrew the small house-church.  Since 2001, our Mission Parish has owned a 17-acre parcel in north Merced on Old Lake Road, and even begun the building of a multi-purpose church hall. The funds for this project were generously provided by donor outside our community. However, due to a "perfect storm" of soaring construction costs along with our mission's own lack of a strong financial base, we have had to abandon this project and are now selling the land and building.

Adversity is a great teacher, and we have learned a great deal about building a mission community. Even in the midst of our trials, we are mindful that here is an opportunity for a new beginning. We ARE a small, humble community, and we know that the Evil One does not want this Orthodox Church to succeed. We ask for your prayers in the midst of our stuggles, that out of the ashes of defeat that, by God's grace, we will "live to fight another day" (Tacitus). That is our commitment, even as we take up our Cross and follow Christ.

Who are the members of St. Mary Magdalene Church?

St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church is a multi-cultural congregation, composed of folks from various ethnic and spiritual backgrounds. We are grateful for the faithful of Slavic or Greek ethnic heritage who started this mission; these cultures are historically associated with the Orthodox Church.  However, today, people from every walk of life and ethnic background make up our parish family. 

Our services are in the English language. We are deeply committed to communicating the truth of the Orthodox Christian Faith to all peoples.

Are visitors welcome at St. Mary Magdalene Church?

Inquirers and spiritual explorers are always welcome at St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church! We delight in sharing our Faith and life.  We pray that you will find our people friendly and helpful when you visit.

When you come, please participate in our worship as you are able and desire.  Allow the service, through its words and actions, to lead your heart and mind in worship by being attentive and prayerful. Don’t worry about trying to follow and understand everything. While you should not feel as though you have to do anything during the service, you may of course make the sign of the cross, and kiss icons, etc.

What should I expect of services at St. Mary Magdalene Church?

Orthodox services are intended to lift the worshipper into the realities of heaven, and so they are rich in symbolism. Thus, the music, prayers, ritual, readings, and preaching are all meant to bring a person into communion with the Living God.  Orthodox worship evokes the majesty of God that is revealed in the Scriptures. A casual approach the eternal God is not our way!  The forms of Orthodox worship are ancient, rooted in holy tradition, and can be traced back not only to the Apostles, but also the Old Testament.

May I receive Communion at an Orthodox Church?

It is the ancient discipline of the historic Church that Holy Communion is available only to fully Orthodox Christians, and then only to those prepared to receive.  The Orthodox Church does not follow the new and now widespread practice of inter-communion with Christians of various beliefs. Many find this discipline difficult to encounter and understand, but you should not feel rejected or unloved. Holy Communion is an experience of profound spiritual power and intimacy with our risen Lord; it must be approached with humility, in accordance with the Holy Traditions of Christ’s Holy Church. If you long for such, do not hesitate to speak with the Rector (pastor) about uniting with the Orthodox Church. 

How can I learn more about Orthodox Christianity?

Classes on various aspects of the Orthodox Faith and life are regularly offered at our church.  Individual instruction in the Faith is available. Do not hesitate to approach the Rector (pastor) about your interest.  In addition, we do have a selection of excellent books and pamphlets designed to introduce folks to Orthodox Christianity.

What activities are offered at St. Mary Magdalene Church?

The most important activity of any Orthodox church is the worship of God. In addition, our parish offers a number of opportunities for fellowship, ministry, and instruction.  These include Church School, “the Furnace” (our teen youth group), home fellowship groups, our “Myrrhbearers Ministries” (the women of our church), and classes for newcomers and inquirers.  As we develop as a growing church, more ministries and outreaches will be formed.  We are sure that you will be able to find a place to grow in your service to God at St. Mary Magdalene Church. 

How does one become a member of this Church?

To be a member of St. Mary Magdalene Church is to become a member of the Orthodox Church.

First, be an inquirer for a season. You should spend time simply experiencing the Orthodox Church and Faith. Visit services, ask questions, read, and get to know us—and above all pray! Becoming Orthodox is a big-decision —the biggest, really — but our Lord promises “Seek, and you shall find.”

Second, if you decide that you desire to become an Orthodox Christian, then inform the Rector (“pastor”). You will be enrolled as a catechumen (one preparing for full membership in the Church), and a period of instruction is required.

When ready, the candidate will be received into the Church. The sacraments of “reception” are Holy Baptism and Chrismation (an anointing with especially blessed oil), which are fulfilled in receiving holy Communion .  If a person is already truly baptized, that one is usually received by Chrismation.

Should I consider becoming an Orthodox Christian?

If your heart so moves you, Yes!

Do you desire a true spiritual home as a Christian—one that offers the fullness of Jesus Christ? Do you want a spiritual inheritance that will be there for your children and your children’s children? If you are seeking a relationship with God and the full expression of the historic Christian Faith, then Orthodoxy is surely where God is calling you. Our pastor and members would be happy to talk with you concerning this and any interest you have in the Orthodox Faith. 

So, if you are serious about your interest in the Orthodox Faith, do not hesitate to contact the Rector (pastor) of our church.