Timelessness of the Orthodox Faith

This website is your gateway to understanding the rich heritage of the Orthodox Christian faith in a Western context. This site provides an overview of essential topics, historical insights, and practices unique to Western Orthodoxy, with roots that trace directly back to the Apostolic Church. For a deeper dive into these subjects, the best reference is Bishop Callahan's latest book, Introduction to Western Orthodoxy, available in both print and Kindle formats on Amazon.

You can also access the text for free below, available to print or download to your e-reader. Whether you're exploring Western Orthodoxy for the first time or seeking a deeper connection to the Ancient Faith, this introduction aims to illuminate the path toward a more authentic faith journey.

Use the links below to get your copy or download it for your personal study and spiritual growth.

Introduction to Western Orthodoxy -- WORD
Introduction to Western Orthodoxy -- PDF
Introduction to Western Orthodoxy -- Amazon

Sacred Services

Experience the timeless Christian Faith through our unique sacred services.

The Liturgy of St. Gregory the Great: A Bridge to Western Orthodoxy

Welcome and discover the Liturgy of St. Gregory the Great, a beautiful expression of worship rooted in the ancient traditions of the early Western Church. This English-language liturgy preserves the reverence, structure, and richness familiar to those coming from the Roman Catholic tradition, while fully embracing the theology and spiritual heritage of Orthodoxy.

For those exploring a transition from the Roman Church to Western Orthodoxy, the Liturgy of St. Gregory offers a sense of continuity. It maintains cherished elements such as the chanting of the Kyrie, Gloria, and Agnus Dei, and the use of sacred gestures and incense, all while placing the Eucharist at the heart of worship in accordance with the Apostolic Faith.

This liturgy serves as an invitation to encounter Christ through the sacraments in a church committed to Authentic Faith—rooted not in recent doctrinal developments, but in the ancient teachings of the undivided Church of the First Millennium. We welcome you to journey with us, experience the fullness of the Apostolic tradition, and participate in a faith that remains grounded in the narrow way of Christ’s truth and grace.

Explore the Liturgy of St. Gregory the Great and discover how it harmoniously blends Western liturgical beauty with Orthodox theology, calling all believers to deeper communion with God through prayer, sacraments, and authentic Christian living.

The Seven Sacraments

The Sacraments of Western Orthodoxy provide believers with a tangible encounter with God’s grace, rooted in the teachings and practices of the early, undivided Church. For those transitioning from the Roman Catholic tradition, these sacraments may feel familiar but offer a profound opportunity to reconnect with the original intent and understanding of the Apostolic Church—free from later doctrinal innovations.

The seven sacraments—Baptism, Chrismation (Confirmation), Eucharist, Confession, Holy Matrimony, Holy Orders, and Anointing of the Sick—are celebrated with reverence and beauty, fostering deep communion with God. They are not merely symbolic acts but are channels through which the faithful receive the transformative grace of the Holy Spirit, uniting them with Christ and His Church.

In Western Orthodoxy, the sacraments reflect both the mystery and simplicity of the early Church. For example, Chrismation immediately follows Baptism, as was practiced in the Apostolic era, emphasizing the fullness of initiation into the Christian life. The Eucharist, celebrated with the utmost reverence, is understood as the true Body and Blood of Christ, central to the believer's journey toward salvation, as proclaimed by Jesus in John 6:53.

If you are seeking a deeper, more authentic sacramental life—one that harmonizes the beauty of Western liturgy with the theology of the Ancient Faith—Western Orthodoxy invites you to rediscover these sacred mysteries. They are not merely religious obligations but essential encounters with God, forming the foundation of an authentic Christian life on the narrow way to salvation.

We welcome you to explore the sacraments in Western Orthodoxy, where the grace and truth of the Apostolic Faith continue to offer life and healing to all who seek communion with Christ.

Traditional Moral Values and Faithfulness to Apostolic Traditions in Western Orthodoxy

Western Orthodoxy offers a refuge for those seeking a return to timeless moral values and unwavering faithfulness to the Apostolic Traditions that have guided the Church since the time of Christ and His Apostles. In an age marked by shifting cultural norms and moral ambiguity, we stand firmly on the unchanging truth handed down by the early Church—truth that nurtures the soul, guides the faithful, and glorifies God.

Our commitment to traditional moral values reflects the teachings of Christ and the Apostles, embracing virtues such as humility, chastity, love, faithfulness, and obedience to God’s commandments. These values form the bedrock of authentic Christian life, rejecting the modern spirit of “you cannot tell me what to do” (YCTMWTD) and instead calling believers to the narrow path of holiness and self-denial that leads to life in Christ.

Faithfulness to Apostolic Traditions ensures that our worship, teachings, and way of life remain grounded in the practices of the early, undivided Church. We preserve the sacramental life, the Creeds, and the Patristic understanding of the faith, believing that the Holy Spirit continues to guide the Church through the wisdom of the Fathers. We reject innovations and doctrinal compromises, instead trusting in the immutability of the truth revealed by Christ and safeguarded by His Apostles.

For those seeking stability amid the confusion of modern ideologies, Western Orthodoxy offers a return to the ancient paths. Here, you will find a community committed to living out the faith as the earliest Christians did—with reverence, love, and a spirit of repentance. Our mission is not to conform to the world but to be transformed by the Holy Spirit, following the words of Christ: “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

We invite you to explore how Western Orthodoxy preserves the treasures of moral truth and Apostolic Tradition, offering believers a way to walk in faith and holiness, firmly rooted in the teachings that lead to salvation.

Spiritual Guidance

At Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church, we offer compassionate spiritual care and guidance rooted in the teachings of Christ and the Apostolic Tradition. Our clergy provide pastoral support through prayer, counseling, and the sacraments, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with faith and hope. Whether through Confession, spiritual direction, or personal blessings, we walk alongside you on your journey toward deeper communion with God. Guided by the Holy Spirit, we aim to foster healing, renewal, and growth, ensuring every soul entrusted to our care experiences the love and grace of Christ.

Preserving Timeless Faith, Inspiring Devotion

Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church faithfully upholds the ancient teachings of the Holy Catholic Church established by Our Lord Jesus Christ in A.D. 33. Differentiated from the errors of the Roman Catholic Church by the Great Schism in A.D. 1054, our practice follows the traditions of the Orthodox Church, embracing the profound sacredness of worship and liturgy. Our commitment to preserving the timeless Christian Faith handed down by the Apostles is unwavering. Visit us at 216 S. 124th Ave. Avondale, Az. 85323 to experience the beauty of truth and sincerity in our beliefs.

Our Patron Saint: Saint Nicholas of Myra – A Hero of the Ancient Faith

Saint Nicholas, the fearless bishop of Myra and our beloved patron, stands as a shining hero of the Ancient Faith. Renowned for his unmatched generosity and unwavering defense of the truth, his life embodied the Apostolic principles that continue to inspire us at Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church. Nicholas was not merely a charitable figure—he was a warrior for the faith, standing firm against heresy and injustice with courage and conviction.

Born in the 3rd century in the region now known as Turkey, Nicholas devoted himself entirely to Christ from a young age. As Bishop of Myra, he exemplified the ideal of a shepherd, guiding his flock with both tenderness and boldness. Known for his boundless compassion, Nicholas became a guardian of the poor and a defender of the oppressed. The stories of his secret acts of charity—like rescuing impoverished families from ruin—formed the roots of today’s Saint Nicholas traditions. But behind these cherished tales lies the soul of a man who gave much more than gifts: he gave his life to the unwavering service of Christ and His Church.

Saint Nicholas’ true heroism shone brightest during the First Ecumenical Council at Nicaea (A.D. 325). In the face of the Arian heresy, which denied the full divinity of Christ, Nicholas stood boldly for the Orthodox faith. Legend holds that he confronted Arius directly, unwilling to let falsehoods undermine the truth entrusted to the Apostles. His actions at Nicaea were not merely intellectual; they were expressions of a heart burning with zeal for God, willing to fight for the faith handed down since the time of Christ.

Though centuries have passed, Nicholas' legacy remains a beacon of faith, courage, and devotion. His unyielding defense of the Apostolic Faith is a foundation we continue to build upon at Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church. Here, we honor him not only as a generous saint but as a heroic defender of the truth—a man who stood unflinchingly for Christ, even when the cost was high.

Through the example of Saint Nicholas, we are reminded of the vital importance of holding fast to the faith that has been preserved through trials and triumphs. In his spirit, we strive to be champions of the same Apostolic principles, living with the same courage, compassion, and fidelity to the truth that Saint Nicholas so boldly exemplified.

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Ancient 1st Principles

Ancient Faith First Principles are the foundational truths handed down by Christ to His Apostles, preserved through the Church Fathers, and safeguarded by the early councils of the Church. These principles reflect the core teachings and practices essential for salvation, unaltered by modern trends or denominational innovations. They include:

Apostolic Tradition and Teaching – The Church relies on both Scripture and Sacred Tradition, recognizing that the fullness of faith cannot be contained in the Bible alone (2 Thess. 2:15).
The Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Chrismation, and the Eucharist are essential for entering and sustaining life in Christ, with John 6:53 affirming the Eucharist as vital for salvation.
Orthodox Understanding of Salvation – Salvation involves ongoing repentance, participation in the sacraments, and striving toward union with God, not merely a one-time declaration of faith.
The Role of the Church – The Church, as the Body of Christ, is the means through which believers receive grace and truth, and outside of it, full communion with God is impossible (St. Cyprian: “You cannot have God as your Father if you do not have the Church as your Mother”).
Faith as Lived Experience – Authentic faith demands not only correct belief but also correct practice—living out the teachings of Christ daily through prayer, service, and the sacraments.

These principles serve as the foundation for authentic Christian life, uniting believers to the faith that has endured since A.D. 33. At Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church, we are committed to embracing and living these First Principles, staying rooted in the timeless truth entrusted to the Apostolic Church.

Sacred Worship in Western Orthodoxy

Sacred worship in Western Orthodoxy is a reverent and mystical encounter with God, rooted in the ancient liturgical traditions of the early Church. It draws upon the structure of Western liturgical rites, such as the Roman, Gallican, or Sarum traditions, while preserving the Apostolic Faith and theology of Orthodoxy.

Liturgy of the Word and Eucharist – The Divine Liturgy is the center of worship, where believers gather to hear the Word of God and participate in the Eucharist, receiving the real presence of Christ (John 6:53).
Holy Mysteries (Sacraments) – Worship is sacramental, with the Eucharist as the summit, accompanied by the other Holy Mysteries, including Baptism, Chrismation, Confession, and Marriage, as means of receiving divine grace.
Reverence and Beauty – Western Orthodox worship emphasizes sacred music, incense, vestments, and the orderly rhythms of prayer, creating an atmosphere that draws worshipers into the presence of God.
Liturgical Seasons and Feast Days – The liturgical calendar shapes the rhythm of life, with seasons like Advent, Lent, and Paschaltide, along with feast days honoring Christ, the Theotokos, and the saints.
Communal and Participatory Worship – Worship involves the entire community, with clergy and laity united in prayer and participation, reflecting the unity of the Church as the Body of Christ.

Through sacred worship, Western Orthodoxy offers a path of spiritual renewal and communion with God, blending ancient practices with accessible Western expressions, always remaining faithful to Apostolic Tradition.

Beauty of Truth

Experience the profound beauty of truth as revealed through the teachings of Orthodox Christianity—a truth that transcends time, culture, and personal opinion. In the Orthodox faith, truth is not merely an abstract concept or a set of doctrines but is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ, who declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). This truth, faithfully preserved through Apostolic Tradition, the Scriptures, and the Church Fathers, brings clarity, purpose, and peace to all who seek it sincerely.

Truth Rooted in Christ and Apostolic Tradition
The beauty of Orthodox truth lies in its continuity with the faith taught by Christ to His Apostles. This sacred truth has been preserved, not as a collection of human ideas but as a divine deposit, safeguarded through the life of the Church. It provides a solid foundation for believers, free from the shifting sands of modern ideologies and trends.
Truth that Nourishes the Soul
Orthodox truth is not merely intellectual but profoundly spiritual. It feeds the soul through prayer, participation in the sacraments, and the study of Scripture and patristic writings. It teaches that salvation is not a distant hope but an ongoing journey toward union with God, offering real transformation through the Holy Mysteries.
Truth as Beauty Made Manifest
In Orthodoxy, truth and beauty are intertwined. The sacred art of icons, the melodies of ancient hymns, the incense rising in prayer, and the solemn rhythm of the liturgy embody the beauty of divine truth. These elements lift the heart and mind toward God, making truth not just something to know but something to experience.
Living the Truth with Integrity
The beauty of truth also shines through in the moral and ethical teachings of Orthodoxy. It calls believers to live with integrity, humility, and love, reflecting Christ in their actions and relationships. This truth challenges us to repent, forgive, and serve others, embodying the Kingdom of God in our daily lives.
Truth that Brings Freedom and Joy
Christ teaches that “the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). In Orthodoxy, this freedom is not a license to live without restraint but the freedom to become who we were created to be—children of God, united to Him in love. The joy that flows from living in truth is not fleeting but enduring, offering a peace that surpasses understanding.

At Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church, we invite you to encounter this beauty of truth in its fullness. Here, you will find teachings that inspire the heart, nourish the soul, and guide the mind toward an authentic relationship with God. Through worship, prayer, and participation in the sacraments, we invite you to live the truth that transforms and brings joy everlasting.

Independent Faith in Communion with the Apostolic Church

Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church is honored to serve as a parish within the Diocese of Phoenix, under the spiritual care of The Most Reverend Michael Callahan, our diocesan bishop. As part of the Holy Orthodox Catholic Church of America (HOCCA), we are committed to living and proclaiming the authentic Apostolic Faith, rooted in the teachings of Christ and the Apostles. We remain a beacon of timeless truth and sacred worship, offering the fullness of Orthodoxy to all who seek it.

A Parish in the Diocese of Phoenix
As a vibrant parish of the Diocese of Phoenix, Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church shares in the mission to nurture faith, administer the sacraments, and serve our community with love and dedication. Under the guidance of Bishop Michael Callahan, we strive to embody the Gospel through worship, prayer, and pastoral care, remaining faithful to the Apostolic principles handed down since A.D. 33.
Leadership of Bishop Michael Callahan
The Most Reverend Michael Callahan leads the Diocese of Phoenix with wisdom, compassion, and a commitment to preserving the timeless truths of Orthodoxy. His leadership reflects a deep understanding of Christian First Principles, emphasizing the importance of the sacraments, the Eucharist (John 6:53), and unity within the Body of Christ. Bishop Callahan’s ministry ensures that the ancient faith remains relevant and accessible in today’s world, offering spiritual guidance to those seeking a deeper relationship with God.
Holy Orthodox Catholic Church of America (HOCCA)
As a parish within the HOCCA, we are part of an autocephalous jurisdiction—governed independently yet in full communion with the Orthodox Christian faith. Our independence allows us to focus on the essentials of the Apostolic tradition without external political or national interference. We are committed to preserving the rich liturgical and sacramental life of Orthodoxy while ministering effectively to the needs of our local community.
A Faith Rooted in Apostolic Tradition
Our Church is firmly grounded in Apostolic Succession, ensuring the continuity of the faith passed down through the generations from Christ to His Apostles and their successors. Every sacrament we celebrate—whether the Eucharist, Baptism, or Chrismation—flows from this unbroken chain, connecting us to the original teachings of the early Church.
Authentic Orthodoxy in a Modern Context
At Saint Nicholas, we blend ancient practices with modern devotion, making the richness of Orthodox worship accessible to all who seek it. We embrace the fullness of Orthodoxy through prayer, sacred liturgy, and the sacraments, ensuring that our parish remains a place of spiritual renewal and transformation. Free from foreign governance, we focus entirely on proclaiming the truth of the Gospel and guiding souls toward union with Christ.
Unity and Freedom in Governance
Though we govern independently, we remain united with the broader Orthodox Christian tradition, honoring the teachings of the Church Fathers, the ecumenical councils, and the Apostolic faith. This balance of freedom in governance and unity in faith allows us to offer an authentic expression of Orthodoxy, free from compromise, rooted in the saving truth of Christ.

We invite you to join us at Saint Nicholas Western Orthodox Church and experience the beauty, truth, and grace of an authentic Orthodox faith. Together, under the guidance of The Most Reverend Michael Callahan, we strive to walk the narrow path that leads to salvation, preserving the faith of our fathers for generations to come.