SS. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church - Altoona, PA

SS. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church is a welcoming Orthodox congregation in Altoona, PA, founded in 1915 by immigrants from Eastern Europe. The church offers English-language services with congregational singing and is part of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA). Learn more about their community and history.

SS. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church is a small but vibrant Orthodox congregation located at 2027 13th Avenue in Altoona, PA. Founded in 1915 by immigrants from Russia, Galicia, Vienna, and other Slavic regions, the church was established to provide a place of worship for those who had settled in the area to work for the Pennsylvania Railroad. About Us describes how these early members worked tirelessly to build the church, and their legacy is honored in every service.

The church is part of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) and follows the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Services are held in English with congregational singing, and the church maintains an abbreviated liturgical cycle due to the priest's dual parish responsibilities. Service Schedule outlines the upcoming services, including Great Vespers and Typika Service.

The community is known for its warmth and inclusivity, with members of diverse backgrounds and ages coming together for worship, social events, and community outreach. Contact provides the church's phone number and mailing address. The church is supported entirely by free will offerings, and visitors are warmly invited to attend services and become part of the community.

SS. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Altoona, PA, is a historic congregation rooted in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, established in 1915 by Slavic immigrants. First-time visitors will likely appreciate the warm, inclusive atmosphere and the English-language services with congregational singing, which invite participation across generations.

Pros

• Embraces newcomers with a welcoming and diverse community
• Offers English-language services featuring congregational singing
• Provides clear service times for Great Vespers and Typika Service
• Maintains historical ties to early 20th-century immigrant heritage
• Part of the established Orthodox Church in America (OCA) denomination
• Supports operations through free will offerings, reflecting communal generosity

Cons

• Services follow an abbreviated liturgical cycle due to the priest's dual parish responsibilities
• Limited website details about family or children's ministries
• Small congregation size may mean fewer facilities or programs