The Orthodox Church is evangelical, but not Protestant.
It is orthodox, but not Jewish.
It is catholic, but not Roman.
It isn’t non-denominational – it is pre-denominational.
It has believed, taught, preserved, defended and died for the Faith of the Apostles since the Day of Pentecost 2000 years ago.
What is Orthodoxy?
To answer that question we have provided a list of trusted resources and recommended videos about the Orthodox faith, however it is always best to speak face to face. Please consider contacting us and scheduling a meeting to discuss your questions.
Recommended Resources
Websites
Ancient Faith Radio
A collection of podcasts specifically relevant to those looking into the Orthodox church.
The Orthodox Faith
Short and concise articles dealing with common questions about the Orthodox faith.
Articles
Videos
How to Become Orthodox?
Discovering the Orthodox Faith
Your journey begins with a desire to learn more about the Orthodox Christian faith. Like a courtship, this is the inquiring phase. You may be exploring other churches, spiritual traditions, or religions at the same time as you are inquiring about the Orthodox Church. This is a time of exploration and inspection, for reading, attending classes, and asking questions. We warmly invite you to visit our parish, attend services, and engage with our community. Feel free to reach out to our priest or contact the parish office to express your interest and ask any initial questions.
Connecting with the Priest
After expressing your interest, you will have an opportunity to meet with the priest. This meeting allows you to ask questions, share your spiritual background, and discuss your desire to become a catechumen. The priest will offer guidance on the next steps and help you understand the commitments involved in the catechumenate process. We are not trying to sell you anything or coerce you. God’s Church is a free gift that costs everything, and we are here to provide the best answers we can or point you to the best resources available.
Beginning the Catechumenate
The second phase is like an engagement. When you feel ready, and with the priest’s blessing, you will formally enroll as a catechumen. This involves a special blessing during a service, where the parish community acknowledges your commitment. A catechumen declares that they want no other love, no other saving relationship, than Christ and His Church. This declaration means ceasing participation in all other churches, religions, services, practices, rites, rituals, and spirituality to make room for the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. You will then be introduced to the catechumenate program, which includes classes, spiritual reading, and active participation in the life of the Church. During this time, you will begin to live as if you are an Orthodox Christian through consistent prayer and participation in the rhythms of the Christian life.
Growing in Faith
During the catechumenate period, you will attend catechism classes to learn about Orthodox theology, liturgy, and spiritual practice. This time also provides opportunities for personal reflection and prayer, finding a sponsor or godparent, and choosing a patron saint. The catechumenate is intentionally not short or urgent; it is designed to help you grow in your faith and prepare for full communion with the Church. The ancient practice often included a learning period of at least three years. The best way to learn is to come and see.
Joining the Church
The third and final phase is like the marriage. After completing the catechumenate period and receiving the blessing of the priest and the Church, you will participate in the sacraments of initiation. If you have not been previously baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, you will receive the sacrament of baptism. If you are already baptized, you will receive the sacrament of chrismation. This joyous occasion marks your full entry into the Orthodox Christian faith. This is when the real work begins—the ongoing physical participation in God’s Body, His Church.
A Lifelong Journey
Becoming a catechumen is the beginning of a lifelong journey in the Orthodox faith. After the sacraments of initiation, you will continue to grow spiritually, actively participate in the life of the Church, and deepen your relationship with Christ. The parish community will be there to support and guide you as you progress in your faith. Like a marriage, this journey requires commitment, participation, and love to thrive.