Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church

This is such a welcoming and "family/kid friendly" community! It's small but has a lot of diversity. It gets noisy at times with all the kids, but the culture of the church manages to maintain a reverent and worshipful atmosphere even with all the kids roaming around (there's no pews, so it's like "free range worship"). It's a good Orthodox parish to visit if you're just "checking it out" because most of the people there are from other faith traditions and there's no pressure or expectations and a lot of help and information if you want it, or you can sit in the back and slip in and slip out and no one will bother you if you just want to be anonymous. I love being there!
5 7 years ago (01-02-2018)

When we first came to St John’s we were not Orthodox. The community welcomed us wholeheartedly and answered all our questions with grace and kindness. They love our children and seek to nurture their faith alongside us as parents. We love the music, the services, the people. We have thoroughly enjoyed becoming part of this community.
5 7 years ago (13-02-2018)

This is the most welcoming church I have ever been to! I attended for the last two years and felt very quickly like I was a part of the community. The choir is fantastic and the congregation and priest are seeker-friendly. I recommend going to the Wednesday evening vespers services as well as the Sunday morning liturgy.
5 7 years ago (03-02-2018)

What can I say about this church? I really am at a loss for words when it comes to describing the love and joy one feels here. If you are unfamiliar with Orthodox Christianity, oh, you can research it on the web until the cows come home, and you will have no better understanding of it than when you first began. The only way to know what the Orthodox Church is, is just to come and see a parish in person. Just come and see. Start with Saint John the Evangelist Mission, here in Tempe, Arizona. You will find friendly folks, beautiful a Capella music, and a true pastor in Father Andre Paez. And yes, an all English service. Come and see. Come and stay.
5 7 years ago (14-02-2018)

We are so thankful to be part of the St John's community, and are looking forward to Pascha! If you are looking for Christ, come find Him in His church - especially on the glorious day of resurrection! Please do visit St John's, or any nearby Orthodox parish. If you come looking for Jesus, you will find Him.
5 7 years ago (30-03-2018)