Your first visit

Learn about Orthodoxy.

Whether you are exploring Christianity, visiting Wellington or looking for a parish, you are welcome to come and discover our Coptic Orthodox life of prayer.

What to wear & other first-visit questions ↓

Come for the Sunday Liturgy

Our Sunday Liturgy is listed from 9am to 12pm. Saturday Liturgy is also 9am to 12pm, with Vesper on Saturday evening from 7pm to 8:30pm. Allow time to arrive before the service begins so you can settle in.

See the full weekly timetable

Find us in Lower Hutt

St Mary & St Mina’s is at 243 Naenae Road, Naenae, Lower Hutt 5011, New Zealand. Use the map for your journey. If you need information about step-free access, parking or other practical arrangements, please contact the parish before travelling.

Open directions

You can take your time

Coptic worship may feel unfamiliar at first. You will encounter prayer, Scripture, chanting, incense and icons. Listen and observe as you become familiar with the service; you do not need to know every response before your first visit.

A note about Holy Communion

The Eucharist is a sacrament of the Orthodox Church. Visiting and attending the service does not mean that everyone receives Holy Communion. If you are unsure about receiving or preparing for Communion, speak with the priest first.

Children and learning

The parish lists Sunday School for all ages from 1pm to 2pm. For class arrangements or questions about bringing your children, please contact the church. Our resource library also includes Coptic learning materials for families.

Explore learning resources

A little reassurance

Questions you may have

Do I need to be Coptic Orthodox to visit?

You are welcome to attend and learn about the faith. If you are considering becoming Orthodox, speak with the priest about the next steps.

What should I wear?

Simple, modest smart-casual clothing is a good choice: a shirt or top that covers the shoulders, with trousers or a skirt or dress around knee length or longer. Avoid revealing clothing. Comfortable shoes will help during a service that includes periods of standing.

Do women need to bring a head covering?

Head coverings are part of Coptic worship, and you may see women wearing a scarf or veil during prayer. Visitors are not required to wear a head scarf. You can bring a light scarf if you wish; ask the priest if you would like guidance on the practice here.

What time should I arrive?

Aim to arrive a little before 9am for the Saturday or Sunday Liturgy. This gives you time to settle in before the prayers begin. If you arrive after the service has started, enter quietly and avoid interrupting the prayers.

How long does the service last?

The regular Saturday and Sunday Liturgy is listed from 9am to 12pm. Saturday Vesper is 7pm to 8:30pm, and Monday Night Prayer is 7pm to 8pm. Special services may differ, so check with the parish before travelling for a feast.

Will I need to stand for the whole service?

Standing is an important part of Orthodox prayer, but sit when you need to. You can follow the congregation as you become familiar with the service, without worrying about getting every movement right.

Can I bring my children?

Children are welcome to share in worship. Bring them with you and help them follow along at their own pace; a brief break may help if they become restless. Sunday School for all ages is listed from 1pm to 2pm. Ask the parish about local class arrangements and facilities.

What if I do not know the prayers or responses?

It is fine to listen and observe. Join in as you feel comfortable, and ask someone for help following the service. You do not need to know the hymns, make every gesture or understand everything on your first visit.

What language is the service in?

Coptic worship can include several languages. Please ask the parish about the languages used here and any help available to follow the service.

Can I use my phone or take photographs?

Keep your phone silent and avoid calls or anything that distracts from prayer. If you use a digital service book, keep the screen discreet. Ask before taking photographs or recording, and respect the privacy of other worshippers.

Will there be incense?

Incense is used in Coptic worship. If you are sensitive to smoke or fragrance, contact the parish before your visit to discuss what to expect and any practical arrangements.

Is there a service for a particular feast?

The timetable here is the parish’s regular weekly schedule. Please confirm special feast services and any changes directly with the church.