St. Luke’s - The Orthodox Church That Became Our Home

1. Leadership

The leadership at St. Luke Orthodox Church has been incredibly supportive and available to our family throughout our journey. V. Rev. Fr. Michael Tassos (Pastor), V. Rev. Fr. Jon Fate (Assistant Priest), and Protodeacon Stephen Bell (Deacon) have shown unwavering dedication to our spiritual growth and well-being.

Fr. Michael was always available to answer our questions, whether in person after the service or during church hours. If we couldn't reach him in person, he would promptly respond to our calls or texts. His kindness and understanding made him easy to talk to. One particular moment that stood out was when he offered to have an 'à la carte' catechumen program tailored for our family, as our kids felt a bit shy. Although we ultimately joined the regular program, we were deeply touched by his offer.

Fr. Jon also provided us with answers whenever Fr. Michael was unavailable. Even though he wasn’t our spiritual advisor, his kindness and openness to help were invaluable. We are grateful for his support and guidance.

Deacon Nicholas was another key figure during our journey, especially during Lent. He regularly checked in on us to ensure we had all the answers we needed and provided much-needed guidance.

And then there was Jack. We’re not entirely sure of Jack’s official title—he’s a reader, a chanter, handles the technology, oversees the catechumen program, the youth program, Bible studies, and more. From day one, Jack has been our go-to person for answers and support. He taught us during the catechumen program, organized the retreats we attended, and led most of the Bible studies. He stood by our side during our baptism and continues to be available for any questions we have. All of this while preparing for his wedding and guiding other parishioners.

The dedication and kindness of St. Luke's leadership have truly made this church a home for us. Their unwavering support has guided us through every step of our journey, making our spiritual growth and integration into the community seamless and heartfelt.

2. Liturgies and Services

The services at St. Luke Orthodox Church are truly something special. They’re beautiful and spiritually enriching, drawing you deeper into the Orthodox Christian faith. The Sunday Divine Liturgy is at the heart of it all, connecting us to sacred traditions dating back to the first century. The atmosphere is reverent and solemn, with the choir singing and the clergy leading the congregation in prayer.

But the magic of St. Luke’s services goes beyond the Sunday Divine Liturgy. Special services, like those on Palm Sunday and the Resurrection of Lazarus, are deeply moving and celebratory. The processions, where parishioners carry palm branches or icons, bring everyone together in shared devotion.

One of our most unforgettable experiences was Pascha (Easter). The night service began in darkness, with everyone holding unlit candles. As the service progressed, the flame from the Paschal candle was passed from one person to the next, slowly lighting up the church with a warm, flickering glow. When the entire church was aglow and we began the procession around the church, it was absolutely magical. Parents and children, united in celebration, walked together, singing hymns that echoed the joy of the Resurrection of Christ.

After the service, way past midnight, we all moved to the church community room. Father Michael blessed the baskets we had brought to celebrate the end of the fast, and then we all sat together, sharing a meal that symbolized our unity and faith. It was a moment of pure joy and fellowship, unlike anything we had experienced before.

Unlike larger churches with extensive volunteer teams, St. Luke relies on the dedication and devotion of its parishioners to bring these services to life. Every detail, from preparing the church to coordinating processions and community meals, is handled by volunteers. This collective effort is a testament to the kindness and faith of all members, who work tirelessly to make each service beautiful and meaningful.

St. Luke’s commitment to maintaining the beauty and sanctity of Orthodox worship is evident in every service. The dedication of the parishioners ensures that each liturgical event is not just a reflection of ancient traditions but also a vibrant expression of our living faith. Whether you’re attending a regular Sunday service or a special event like Holy Week, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to share their faith and joy with you.

3. Ministries and Groups

St. Luke Orthodox Church offers diverse ministries and groups that played a crucial role in our journey to Orthodoxy. From the Ladies of St. Luke, which provided my wife with a supportive network and deepened her faith, to the engaging Bible studies and service projects for men, there are countless ways to connect and grow. Our children thrived in the nurturing Sunday School, and we all benefited from the family activities and fellowship. These ministries not only offer fellowship but also embody the mission of the Orthodox Church, making St. Luke a welcoming and spiritually enriching community.

St. Luke Orthodox Church's ministries and groups not only provide opportunities for fellowship and growth but also embody the mission of the Orthodox Church to support the spiritual journey of all its members. Each group and activity at St. Luke is a testament to the church’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant and inclusive community. Whether you’re a lifelong Orthodox Christian or someone exploring the faith, St. Luke offers a place where you can grow spiritually and connect deeply with others.

Who is Saint Luke the Apostle?

Saint Luke, the patron of our church, is a cornerstone of our faith community. As one of the Seventy Apostles and author of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, he has profoundly shaped Orthodox Christianity. Born in Syrian Antioch, Saint Luke was a physician and the first Christian historian, renowned for his detailed and compassionate narratives. His Gospel emphasizes the mercy and compassion of the Lord Jesus Christ, endearing him to Orthodox Christians worldwide.

Saint Luke's close relationship with Saint Paul further highlights his significance. He accompanied Saint Paul on many missionary journeys, spreading the teachings of the Church far and wide. Tradition holds that Saint Luke was also an iconographer, creating some of the first icons of the Holy Mother and Christ. His works and life are celebrated through scripture readings and gospel readings during the Sunday Divine Liturgy, making his legacy an integral part of the life of the church.

What Makes Saint Luke the Ideal Patron Saint for Our Church?

If you're a Christian Orthodox living near Garden Grove and looking for a church, Saint Luke Orthodox Church could be your perfect spiritual home. Our church embodies the values of Saint Luke—compassion, healing, and evangelism—which makes him an ideal patron saint for our community.

Saint Luke’s dedication to holy causes and his healing touch inspire us to follow Christ’s commandment to love and serve others. His teachings guide us through the special Orthodox services of Holy Week and the joyous celebrations like Palm Sunday. His compassionate approach to the Gospel encourages us to live our faith with kindness and devotion.

You’ll feel Saint Luke's presence in our sacred space, from the Sunday Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom to our community activities. His influence is reflected in the dedication of our parishioners, whether they're part of the Men of St. Luke, the Ladies of St. Luke, or the youth programs. This commitment keeps our church vibrant and welcoming.

Saint Luke's life and works continue to inspire us, making him the perfect patron saint for anyone joining Saint Luke Orthodox Church. He guides us in living out our Orthodox Christian faith with love and compassion, creating a community where you can grow spiritually and feel truly at home.