Your Journey
Preparing for Orthodox Christianity
Whether you've just begun attending services or you're preparing for baptism and chrismation, this page gathers the resources you'll need for the catechumen journey.
This page is a starting point, not a substitute for the guidance of a priest. Every catechumen journey is unique. Find a parish and speak with the priest about beginning the process.
The Journey to Orthodoxy
1. Curiosity
You've heard about Orthodoxy and want to learn more.
2. Visiting
You attend services and begin to experience the faith.
3. Inquirer
You meet with a priest and begin formal exploration.
4. Catechumen
You are enrolled as a catechumen, studying and preparing.
5. Baptism / Chrismation
You are received into the Church.
6. Lifelong Growth
The journey continues in parish life.
What to Expect as a Catechumen
The catechumen period typically lasts six to twelve months, though the timeline varies based on each person's background and readiness. Your priest will work with you to determine the right pace — there is no rush.
Most parishes offer catechism classes covering the Creed, the sacraments, church history, liturgical life, and prayer. These may be group sessions with other inquirers or one-on-one conversations with your priest. Either way, you will have ample opportunity to ask questions.
You will also be assigned — or will choose — a sponsor (godparent), an Orthodox Christian who supports you in your journey and stands with you at your baptism or chrismation. Your priest can help you find a sponsor if you don't already know one in the parish.
Throughout this period, the most important thing you can do is attend services regularly. The Sunday Divine Liturgy and Saturday evening Vespers are the heartbeat of parish life. Orthodoxy is absorbed through worship as much as through study.
Recommended Reading
Start Here
The Orthodox Church
by Timothy Ware
The classic introduction to Orthodox faith, history, and worship.
Welcome to the Orthodox Church
by Frederica Mathewes-Green
A warm, conversational guide through the first year in an Orthodox parish.
Orthodoxy and Heterodoxy
by Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick
A clear comparison of Orthodox Christianity with other Christian traditions.
Going Deeper
The Orthodox Way
by Kallistos Ware
A deeper exploration of Orthodox theology and spiritual life.
For the Life of the World
by Alexander Schmemann
A transformative vision of the sacramental life.
The Ladder of Divine Ascent
by St. John Climacus
The classic monastic guide to spiritual growth, read every Lent.