Welcome to our Community

Welcome to the web site for the Orthodox Church of Assumption. Greek immigrants brought the ancient church to America and today, the Greek Orthodox Church  has members from all nationalities. At the heart of Hellenic culture and Christian faith is "welcoming the stranger" and giving hospitality.

Worship at Assumption is done entirely in English. Over 75% of marriages at Assumption are inter-faith. Assumption has received many converts from other Christian faiths as well. 

Throughout the year, classes are offered for inquirers. Please call the Church office for the dates of this class.

The church exists for the salvation and nurturing of souls in Christ. The youth are given priority and made to feel welcome in worship through the children's sermons. Adults are encouraged to grow in faith and knowledge through the study of scripture and worship.

The community is under the jurisdiction of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco and the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America. In the United States, the Orthodox Church is administrated according to jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction is in communion with one another. The Standing Conference of Orthodox Bishops (SCOBA) has representatives from all jurisdictions. The Orthodox Church traces its history to the apostles. In 1054, the Pope of Rome split away from the Patriach of Constantinople. This is what is known as the Great Schism.

The Assumption Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The church honors the Virgin Mary for her role as the one from whom Christ took flesh. "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior, for he looked upon the low estate of His slave. For behold, from henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For the mighty One did great things to me, and holy is His name (Luke 1:46-49, Orthodox New Testament)." On August 15, the church remembers the Virgin Mary's death or falling asleep in Christ, this is a special day of celebration for our community. By referring to the church as "Assumption" it remembers a pious belief that after Mary's death her body was translated (assumed) into heaven as Elijah's (2 Kings 2:11).

If you would like to discuss becoming a member of the Church please contact the church office or email me for an appointment.

Welcome to our community!

 

Your co-worker in Christ,

Rev. Andrew J. Barakos, Economos
Priest of Assumption
Fr. Andrew's Biography