Being a member in good standing of the Greek Orthodox Church means a person has fulfilled certain spiritual, canonical, and financial obligations as outlined by the Church and actively maintains a committed Orthodox Christian life.

Specifically, this typically includes:

• Canonical requirements: The person must be baptized and chrismated according to the rites of the Orthodox Church. If applicable, the person must be married in the Orthodox Church. If the person is divorced, he or she must have a Letter of Ecclesiastical Divorce.

• Age: The individual must be 18 years or older to be an autonomous member (membership for minors is included under their parents until adulthood).

• Liturgical/Worship life: Regular participation in worship and the sacraments (such as receiving Holy Communion and attending Divine Liturgy) is essential. Living according to the tenets and moral teachings of the Orthodox faith is expected.

• Stewardship: The member must make an annual financial pledge (stewardship) to support the local parish and be current in fulfilling this pledge. If unforeseen circumstances arise, financial obligations may be discussed and sometimes waived by the priest.

• Good conduct: Members must abide by the regulations and canons of the Church, not publicly defy church authority, and refrain from activities or affiliations that are inconsistent with Orthodox belief and morality.

• Community involvement: Our commitment to the Church extends beyond finances and includes offering time and talents to support the well-being and activities of the parish.

A member in good standing may:

• Vote in parish assemblies and council elections, serve on the parish council, and sponsor baptisms and weddings (which often requires a specific priest’s endorsement).

If someone does not meet these criteria, they are not considered "in good standing," which may restrict participation in certain sacraments or parish decision-making. Feel free to contact our parish priest if you have any other questions.

*These requirements are based on the Uniform Regulations of the Greek Archdiocese of America.