INQUIRERS
HELPFUL INFORMATION AND LINKS
All services and activities are open to the public.
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The most often asked question of those interested in the Orthodox Christian Faith is "how do I become a member?" The simple answer is to begin by coming to our Sunday Services and then meet with the pastor afterwards. There is no dress code; dress "modestly". If after a period of six to eight weeks (or longer if needed), one wants to join our church, then with the blessing of the priest you are made a "catechumen": one who is being taught the faith. This is the second step (the first step is regularly attending Divine Liturgy). As part of this catechumenate, the pastor conducts classes called "Orthodoxy 101" around once to twice a month after Sunday Divine Liturgy and Fellowship (usually around 12:30PM). This is your third step. Our catechumenate usually lasts about a year; we want you to get comfortable worshipping with us and getting to know our people. This time period can vary a bit from person to person; family to family. After completing one's catechumenate, you will enter the Orthodox church usually by being baptized, chrismated and communed all in one service. Sometimes, if you have been baptized in another tradition, you will be brought in by chrismation and communion; we have guidelines that determine which is suitable.
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Have more questions? Just come to a Sunday Service! Don't be shy. Take a step of faith. Just bring a repentant heart and a desire to know God.
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Finally, although our parking lot looks small, most of our people park either right on Bellemeade Avenue in front of the church (on both sides of the road), or on the side-streets of Walnut Lane or Lombard Street (which is extra wide). There is abundant parking. It will be the same distance as going to Wal-Mart except you will be walking from a street and not a parking lot. We hope to see you soon!
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First Visit to an Orthodox Church: Twelve Things I Wish I'd Known
by Frederica Mathewes-Green
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