Become a Catechumen

We are delighted that you are considering exploring the rich and vibrant faith of the Orthodox Church. As you embark on this journey, we want to provide you with an understanding of what it means to become an Orthodox catechumen and how you can take your first steps.

In the Orthodox Church, a catechumen is someone who is preparing to enter the Church through baptism or chrismation. This period is a time of learning, reflection, and spiritual growth. As a catechumen, you will be guided through the teachings and traditions of Orthodoxy, helping you to deepen your understanding and commitment to the faith.

1. Initial Inquiry: Your journey begins with a desire to learn more about the Orthodox Christian faith. We encourage you to visit our parish, attend services, and engage with our community. Feel free to reach out to Fr. James, Fr. Nicholas, or contact the church directly to express your interest.
2. Meeting with the Priest: Once you have expressed your interest, you will meet with one of our priests. This meeting is an opportunity for you to ask questions, share your spiritual background, and discuss your interest in becoming a catechumen. The priest will provide guidance on the next steps and help you understand the commitments involved.
3. Classes: The Inquirers Class will meet during Matins, beginning at 9:00am. This class is for anyone curious about the Orthodox faith, whether you are visiting for the first time or have been attending for a while and want to know more. No commitment is needed. Simply come with your questions.
4. The Catechumens Class will begin at the dismissal of the catechumens during the Divine Liturgy. This class is for those who have had the prayer for the making of a catechumen read over them. At the dismissal, catechumens will go with their catechist to continue their formation in the faith, preparing for the day they are received into the Church.
5. The Post-Baptism and Chrismation Class will meet on Wednesday nights after the service. This class is for those who have been recently received into the Church through Holy Baptism and Chrismation. Entering the Church is not the end of the journey but its true beginning, and this class will help our newly illumined grow deeper in prayer, in the sacramental life, and in their place within our parish family.  
6. Catechumenate Period: During this time, you will attend catechism classes where you will learn about Orthodox theology, liturgy, and spiritual practice. You will also have opportunities for personal reflection and prayer, for meeting and finding a sponsor or godparent, and discover your patron saint. This period is designed to help you grow in your faith and prepare for full communion with the Church.
7. The Sacraments of Initiation: Upon completion of the catechumenate period, and with the blessing of the priest and the Church, you will receive the sacraments of baptism (if you have not been baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit) or chrismation (if you are already baptized). This is a joyous occasion, marking your full entry into the Orthodox Christian faith.
8. Continuing Growth: Becoming a catechumen is just the beginning of a lifelong journey in the Orthodox faith. Even after the sacrament of initiation, you will continue to grow spiritually, participate in the life of the Church, and deepen your relationship with Christ.

We warmly invite you to join us for a Divine Liturgy or any of our services to experience Orthodox worship. Please contact us to schedule a meeting with our priest or to find out more about our catechumenate program. We are here to support you every step of the way and to help you as you explore and embrace the Orthodox Christian faith.

Thank you for considering this sacred path.

We look forward to walking this journey with you.