Saint Elizabeth Orthodox Church

Bringing the Light of Holy Orthodoxy to the Elizabethtown, Kentucky area.

Who We Are

Our Mission began in May of 2022, as a group of faithful in the Elizabethtown, KY area identified a need for an Orthodox Christian Community in the region. Under the spiritual guidance of Archpriest Lucas Rice (Pastor of St. Michael Orthodox Church in Louisville, KY), we began having services in early June of 2022.While a missional parish with a majority of converts, we are also blessed with faithful from a variety of traditionally Orthodox backgrounds. All our services are in English.We are thrilled to build an Orthodox Community that will last for generations and to shine the Light of Orthodoxy here in Kentucky.

Our Faith

Our faith is the Holy Tradition handed down to us from the Apostles. We worship the Triune God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Our worship is liturgical--ancient and alive! We offer the sacraments for the life of the world and its salvation.

Directions

We meet at 1105 Woodland Drive, Elizabethtown, KY 42701.

Calendar

Giving

Here are some options for donating to the mission:
Cash: At Mission Services/events
Check: Make out to St. Michael's Church, with E-town Mission in memo
Online:

Please include E-town Mission in the note section of Venmo

270-864-6282

I'm New!

What to expect at an Orthodox service

Welcome! We are delighted that you are visiting our parish.Whether you are exploring Christianity, interested in learning about the Orthodox Faith, or simply visiting with family or friends, we hope you feel at home.A Worship Experience Rooted in HistoryOrthodox Christian worship has been passed down through the centuries from the time of the Apostles. The Divine Liturgy is rich with Scripture, prayer, hymns, and symbolism that engage all the senses. You will see icons, smell incense, hear chanting, and witness a form of worship that has
remained remarkably consistent for nearly 2,000 years.When Should I Arrive?Many people arrive 10–15 minutes before the service begins. Feel free to come early, observe, and become familiar with the church before the service starts.What Should I Wear?There is no formal dress code for visitors. Some parishioners dress very formally, while others dress more casually. In general, modest and respectful attire is appreciated. You may notice some women wearing head coverings. They are not required nor expected to be worn at our parish. They are worn as an expression of devotion, humility, reverence, and prayer.
Our focus is on worshipping Christ together, and all are welcome.Will I Know What Is Going On?Perhaps not at first, and that’s okay! Orthodox worship is participatory rather than performance-based. Visitors are encouraged to observe, pray, and absorb the experience without feeling pressure to understand everything immediately.Why Is There So Much Standing?Standing has traditionally been the posture of prayer and reverence in the Orthodox Church. You may notice that some people stand for much or all of the service, while others sit when needed. Visitors should feel free to sit whenever necessary.What About Children?Children are welcome in Orthodox worship. You may hear babies cry or see children moving about. This is normal and a sign of a living parish community. We encourage families to worship together. At St. Elizabeth, we have a designated family room in which you can take your children if they become restless or need a break where you can comfortably care for them while continuing to observe and participate in the service through a viewing window.Why Are There Icons?Icons are sacred images that help direct our attention toward Christ, His saints, and the events of salvation history. Orthodox Christians do not worship icons. Rather, we honor the persons depicted in them, much
as one might treasure a photograph of a loved one.Why Is Incense Used?Incense has been used in Christian worship since ancient times. Its rising smoke symbolizes our prayers ascending to God:
“Let my prayer arise in Thy sight as incense.” (Psalm 141:2)
Incense also reminds us that worship involves our whole person, body and soul.What Happens During the Divine Liturgy?The Divine Liturgy includes:
• Scripture readings
• Prayers and litanies
• Hymns and chanting
• A sermon or homily
• The Eucharist (Holy Communion)
The service is centered on the worship of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.May I Receive Holy Communion?Holy Communion is offered to Orthodox Christians who have prepared through practices within the Orthodox Church. If you are not Orthodox, please do not feel excluded. We invite you to remain in your place and join us in prayer. Many visitors choose to come forward at the end of the service to receive a blessing or simply greet the priest. At the conclusion of the Liturgy, guests may receive “blessed bread. This bread is not Holy Communion but is offered as a sign of Christian love and fellowship.What Happens After the Service?Most Sundays include a coffee hour, and/or light refreshments following the Divine Liturgy. Visitors are warmly invited to stay, meet parishioners, ask questions, and learn more about the Orthodox Faith.Questions?
Please introduce yourself to the priest, deacon, or one of our parishioners. We would be honored to meet you and help make your visit comfortable.“Come and see.” (John 1:46)
We look forward to welcoming you.