Visiting St. Verena: What to Expect
Everyone is welcome. Here is what to expect when you come.
Service times
- SaturdayVespers6:30 PM
- SundayDivine Liturgy8:00 AM
- WeekdaysLiturgies and prayersSee the calendar
All services are in English. Weekday liturgy times vary, so check the calendar before you come.
Where to find us
5240 Edmondson Pike
Nashville, TN 37211
Welcome
If you have never been to a Coptic Orthodox church before, we are glad you are thinking of visiting. St. Verena American Coptic Orthodox Church is an English-language parish in Nashville, part of the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States. Visitors are welcome at any service, and you do not need to know anything beforehand.
Your first visit
What to wear
Dress modestly and comfortably. Many people dress as they would for an important occasion. Please avoid very short or sleeveless clothing.
What the service is like
The Divine Liturgy is a worship service of prayer, hymns, Scripture readings and a sermon, centered on Holy Communion. It is ancient and beautiful, and it may feel new at first. A few things to know:
- We stand for much of the Liturgy. You are welcome to sit whenever you need to.
- Our parish worships in English. Some hymns and responses are in Coptic or Arabic, a small part of the service.
Holy Communion
In the Coptic Orthodox Church, Holy Communion is received by baptized Orthodox Christians who have prepared and are in good standing with the Church. If this is not you, please do not feel left out. You are warmly invited to stay for the whole service, and at the end you may receive the blessed bread (the Eulogia), shared as a sign of welcome and love.
Children and families
Children are welcome in the church, and we love having them with us. Families worship together, and a little noise from young ones is part of church life. If a child needs a moment, you are welcome to step out and come back in. Sunday School is offered for children; ask when it meets.
After the Liturgy
Many parishioners stay for fellowship, with a meal or refreshments in the church hall. This is a lovely time to meet people and ask questions. You are welcome to join us.
Meet our priests
Our priests are Fr. Theodore Ghaly and Fr. Elisha Soliman. They are happy to meet you after the service or at another time. To arrange a conversation, confession or other appointment, see our confession and appointments page.
Questions and next steps
- Email [email protected]
- Want to learn more about the Orthodox faith? Join our Catechism 101 class