Becoming Orthodox: The Road to Baptism
Join us for upcoming events, from community gatherings to special sales. We can't wait to see you there. Baptism and Chrismation are not a finish line. They are the starting gate. Here is the path our parish walks with you, one step at a time, and what to expect along the way.
The path at a glance
No one is rushed and no one walks alone. Each stage lasts about sixteen weeks, and your priest decides the pace with you. Some people take longer, and that is fine.
- Inquire
Inquirers’ Class
Come and see. We cover what the Church is, Scripture and Tradition, the Creed, the Trinity, Christ, the saints, icons, the Divine Liturgy, and the Mysteries. No prior knowledge is assumed, and every question is welcome. - Become a catechumen
Catechumen Class: “Now That You Are a Catechumen”
When you and your priest agree you are ready, you are received through the Church’s prayers for the making of a catechumen. From then on you are prayed for by name at every Liturgy. You attend faithfully, begin a prayer rule, start keeping the fasts, and learn to live the Church’s daily, weekly, and yearly rhythm. You do not yet receive Communion; the Church asks you to wait as a form of patient formation, not exclusion. - Prepare for reception
Toward the end of the catechumenate
As your reception draws near, three things take shape. Select one to read more.
Find a sponsor Someone to walk beside you, now and for life.
Find a patron saint a friend in heaven whose life you will come to know.
Make a life confession Bringing your whole story to Christ for healing.
You will also meet with your priest for a conversation about your faith, your questions, and your readiness.
Baptism, Chrismation, and first Communion
Your reception day
In Baptism you die and rise with Christ (Romans 6). In Chrismation you receive the seal of the Holy Spirit, a personal Pentecost. Then you come to the chalice for the first time. Those already baptized in another tradition are received as your priest directs.
