How to Become an Orthodox Christian?

Becoming an Orthodox Christian is a journey, not an event. It begins with a sincere desire to know God and to follow Jesus Christ. This desire leads to a process of learning and growth, as you explore the Orthodox faith and way of life.

The first step is 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. You may also want to read books and articles about Orthodoxy, or to talk with our Parish Priest.

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

Here are some additional things to keep in mind as you consider becoming an Orthodox Christian:

• Orthodoxy is a sacramental faith. This means that 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. This means that we believe that 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. This means that we believe that Jesus Christ is the center of our faith. We follow Jesus Christ by learning about his life, death, and resurrection, and by trying to live our lives in accordance with his teachings.

If you are interested in learning more about the Orthodox Christian Faith, we encourage you to visit our St. Sava Church and contact our Parish Priest, Proto Stevo Rocknage to arrange a meeting:

• Phone: (412) 672-1872
• Email: frstevor@aol.com

Some recommended books and readings:

• The Orthodox Study Bible (from the 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