Becoming Orthodox
54 writings in Becoming Orthodox. Clear
Becoming Orthodox
How long does it take to become Orthodox?
It depends. The catechumenate usually lasts about a year, and Fr. Michael decides when someone is ready, working within whatever guidelines the bishop has set.…
Becoming Orthodox
What is the catechumenate?
The catechumenate is the Church’s formal period of preparation for people entering Orthodoxy. It’s when you’re publicly recognized as a catechumen, someone learning the faith,…
Becoming Orthodox
What happens during the catechumenate?
The catechumenate is your formal preparation period before you’re received into the Orthodox Church. It’s when you learn to live as an Orthodox Christian before…
Becoming Orthodox
What will I learn as a catechumen?
You’ll learn how to be Orthodox. That means the basics of what we believe, how we worship, how we pray, and how to live as…
Becoming Orthodox
What is expected of catechumens?
You’re expected to show up, learn the faith, and start living it. The catechumenate isn’t a classroom exercise where you pass a test and move…
Becoming Orthodox
Do I have to attend every service as a catechumen?
No, you don’t have to attend every single service the church offers. But you’re expected to be at Divine Liturgy on Sundays, and your priest…
Becoming Orthodox
Can catechumens receive Communion?
No. Catechumens can’t receive Holy Communion. This isn’t a punishment or a way to keep you at arm’s length. It’s about what Communion actually is…
Becoming Orthodox
What is the catechumen prayer?
The catechumen prayer is actually a litany prayed during the Divine Liturgy for those preparing to be baptized. It’s not a prayer you say by…
Becoming Orthodox
Why are catechumens dismissed during Liturgy?
The Liturgy dismisses the catechumens because they aren’t yet baptized, and only the baptized can receive the Eucharist. At St. Michael, the dismissal is still…
Becoming Orthodox
What is the service of catechumen enrollment?
The service of catechumen enrollment is a brief liturgical rite that marks your formal commitment to prepare for baptism or chrismation. It’s the moment you…
Becoming Orthodox
What books should catechumens read?
Start with two or three good ones, but don’t skip church to finish them. Reading matters during your catechumenate, but it’s secondary to showing up…
Becoming Orthodox
How do catechumens choose a patron saint?
You’ll choose your patron saint in conversation with your priest during your preparation for baptism or chrismation. This isn’t something you decide alone or announce…
