Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church

Did you ever imagine a church born from a yearning for tradition? This is the story of Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church, right here on Ashworth Avenue North in Seattle. In 1968, a group of faithful, led by Father Neketas Palassis, felt a growing unease. They sought a deeper connection to their Orthodox roots, a path undisturbed by the rising tide of ecumenism. Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church became their spiritual haven. These parishioners, originally part of a local Greek Orthodox Church, felt a pull towards a more traditional practice. They yearned for the liturgical richness and unwavering adherence to ancient doctrines that they felt were being diluted. So, they took a courageous step, breaking away to establish Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church. Initially, they found kinship with the Russian Church Abroad under the guidance of Metropolitan Philaret. However, this alliance eventually faltered as the Russian Church also began to embrace ecumenism. Undeterred, the community at Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church sought a new spiritual home. In 1987, they aligned with the True Orthodox Church of Greece, led by Archbishop Auxentios. Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church stands as a testament to their commitment. They follow the Julian calendar, a visible marker of their dedication to tradition. The church’s history reflects the journeys of its diverse members, hailing not just from Greek and Russian backgrounds, but also from Protestant and Roman Catholic traditions. United by their shared faith and the desire for a traditional Orthodox experience, they found their spiritual anchor at Saint Nectarios American Orthodox Church in Seattle. Here, within these walls, they continue to preserve the liturgical beauty and theological depth of their Orthodox heritage.