JOINING THE CHURCH

Becoming an Orthodox Christian is a lot like getting married. It involves the same basic steps: courtship, engagement, and then the wedding. And just like marriage, it's a beautiful and deeply personal journey.

It's important to remember that being an Orthodox Christian means being a regularly participating and active member of a local Orthodox parish. This isn't just a one-time commitment, an intellectual interest, a list of facts to agree with, or a set of products to be purchased; it's about being an active part of a living, breathing community of broken believers who are being renewed by the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

A typical path for an adult becoming Orthodox:

Step One - INQUIRY

Step Two - Catechumen

Step Three - Preparation

Phase One: Inquiry

Your journey into the Church likely started with a visit to a service, exploring Orthodoxy online, or chatting with an Orthodox friend. This journey will continue to unfold through exploration, inquiry, and active participation in parish life, deepening your connection to the faith and community.

What should you be doing as an Inquirer?

  • Attend services.
  • Stay for fellowship & chat with community members.
  • Engage with Orthodox resources.
  • Share your story with the parish priest.

What are your next steps?

Usually, after several weeks of attending services and demonstrating a basic level of participation in parish life, it might be time for you to become a Catechumen, signifying a deeper journey into the faith. It might take several weeks of active participation before becoming a Catechumen.

 Resources

Phase Two: Catechumen

When you’re ready to become a catechumen, the priest will offer a special prayer for you during a Sunday liturgy, marking the joyful beginning of your formal instruction in the faith.

What should you be doing as a Catechumen?

Do all of the following with guidance from your parish priest:

  • Attend Church & Fellowship every Sunday.
  • Attend Saturday Vespers and Feast-Day Services Regularly.
  • Attend catechism classes every Sunday after Fellowship.
  • Begin following the fasting and prayer practices of the Church.
  • Read the Lives of the Saints daily.
  • Keep connected with the parish priest about your journey.
  • Continue engaging with Orthodox Resources.
  • Get to know people in the Church.
  • Experience the cycles of the Church year.

     

    What are your next steps?

There isn't a formalized start or end date for being a catechumen. You can begin the catechumenate at any time, and you can be fully received into the Church when it is determined that you are ready. The length of this journey varies widely—some people may be catechumens for a few weeks, while others might take several years. Most people, however, find that they are catechumens for at least six months. This flexible approach ensures that you have the time to experience the ebbs and flows of life in the Church and fully prepare for your renewed life as an Orthodox Christian.

 Resources

Phase Three: Preparation

There will come a time when you, the parish priest, and the community all feel you are ready to be fully received into the Church. When that joyous moment arrives, you'll work closely with the priest to make final arrangements for this meaningful transition.

What should you be doing in preparation?

  • Consider which saint you might want to take as your special patron.
  • Consider who you would like to choose as your sponsor/godparent.
  • Speak with the parish priest about setting up a life confession.

    What are your next steps

Together with the priest, you'll discuss any final steps, delve into the significance of the upcoming mysteries, and ensure your faith community fully supports you as you take this profound step into the fullness of Orthodox Christian life.

Congratulations and Welcome Home!