For Inquirers

 Greetings in the Name of our Lord, God & Savior Jesus Christ! 

Many thousands have made the journey from where they are into the Orthodox Christian Faith.  We are sometimes referred to as the Eastern Orthodox Church (after all, Christianity is an eastern faith) or sometimes by the nation they are in, i.e. Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Japanese Orthodox, etc.  It is the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church founded by our Lord Jesus Christ.  This is original issue Christianity and the Orthodox Church is Orthodox in doctrine, morals, and worship.  If you are looking for an orthodox Christian Church, this is it!

Relax!  It is a joyful and well trodden path, with many souls who have made this journey before you, and many more to come after you.  Therefore, let’s start with the basics:

Step One:  Conversion to Christ-To start with, one has to believe, accept, and be seeking Christ.

Step Two: Repentance-Like the Prodigal, one must rise-up and return to the Father.  Those who have made this journey are sincerely seeking and desiring salvation.

Step Three:  Find an Orthodox Church and then “Come and See”.  Your situation is not unique.  You may be making this journey of faith alone.  You may be coming with family or with friends. You may be a pastor leading your flock to the Safe Haven.  Whatever your situation is, you can be assured that many have come that way before you.

Step Four: The Catechumenate-When one desires to become a member of the Body of Christ, a period of instruction is necessary.  One then must commit to being instructed and prepared for entry into the Church.

Step Five: Entry into the Church-Your entrance into the Church will culminate with the service of Baptism and/or Chrismation, and receiving the Holy Eucharist.

Fr. Jerry is happy to answer any questions you might have.  If you have a question or want more information you may call the Church (541.683.3519) or email Fr. Jerry.

In an effort to help alleviate confusion, here are some pointers that might help you when you visit us!

1. The church is a sacred and holy place filled with sights, smells, and sounds.
2. We stand up for most of the service.
3. We make the sign of the cross frequently.
4. We touch and kiss things.
5. Everyone may receive the blessed bread at the end of the service however only Baptized and Chrismated Orthodox Christians can take Holy Communion.
6. About 75% of the service is congregational singing.
7. The Sunday Divine Liturgy lasts about two hours.
8. We regard Mary as the “Theotokos” or “Mother of God” and we honor and reverance her as first among the Saints.
9. You don’t have to be Greek, or speak Greek, or know Greek to come to a Greek Orthodox Church.  Everyone is welcome.
10. Orthodoxy is better “caught than taught” so come and see!

Ancient Faith Radio

Ancient Faith Radio exists to supplement the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic church with on line audio programming of music, prayers, readings, lectures and interviews.

http://ancientfaith.com/

Looking for a Christ-Centered Church?  Get to know the Original!

www.GetToKnowTheOriginal.net

Journey to Orthodoxy-For those on the path to Orthodox Christianity

http://journeytoorthodoxy.com

Orthodoxy in America-On-line directory of the Orthodox Church in America

www.orthodoxyinamerica.org

Orthodox Church History

http://orthodoxchurchhistory.com

Orthodoxy and Heterodoxy

http://orthodoxyandheterodoxy.org/