Becoming Orthodox

The Path of Discovery

This desire leads to a process of learning and growth, as you explore the Orthodox faith and way of life. The first step is simply to start attending services. This will give you the opportunity to learn more about the Orthodox faith and to meet other Orthodox Christians and share in fellowship.

As you learn more about Orthodoxy, you will begin to understand the beliefs and practices of the Church. You will also begin to develop a relationship with God and with the Orthodox community. Following this initial period of inquiry and a personal meeting with our priest, you may be formally enrolled as a catechumen: a committed student of the faith entering a dedicated season of spiritual formation and preparation. If you feel called to become an Orthodox Christian, you will be Baptized and Chrismated. This is a sacred and ancient ceremony that marks your full initiation into the Orthodox Church.

Becoming an Orthodox Christian is a lifelong journey of faith, love, and service. It is a journey that will lead you to a deeper understanding of God and of yourself.

Foundations to Keep in Mind

• Orthodoxy is a sacramental faith. We believe that God's grace is communicated to us through the sacraments, such as Baptism, Chrismation, the Eucharist, and Holy Confession.
• Orthodoxy is a liturgical faith. Worship is central to our relationship with God. We worship God through the regular celebration of the Divine Liturgy, as well as through other services such as Vespers and Matins.
• Orthodoxy is a Christocentric faith. Jesus Christ is the center of our faith. We follow Him by learning about His life, death, and resurrection, and by trying to live our lives in accordance with His teachings.

Recommended Readings

For those inquiring into the ancient faith, we recommend the following resources:

• The Orthodox Study Bible (Ancient Faith Store)
• Introducing the Orthodox Church: Its Faith and Life by Anthony Coniaris
• Orthodox Worship: A Living Continuity with the Synagogue, the Temple, and the Early Church by Benjamin D. Williams and Harold B. Anstall
• Becoming Orthodox: A Journey to the Ancient Christian Faith by Peter E. Gillquist
• Journey to Orthodoxy: How To Become An Orthodox Christian