Conversion Roadmap

Become an Orthodox Christian

Follow a prayerful path—visit a parish, enter catechesis, and prepare for reception—while learning the faith through the resources here on Orthodox Christianity 101.

Grounded in prayer and worship

Guided by parish clergy

Supported with study tools

Build a prayer rhythm Prepare for parish life

Pray through discernment

Let your desire for Orthodoxy be shaped by repentance and thanksgiving. Use simple prayers morning and evening as you seek the Lord.

Start praying today

Connect locally

The Church is encountered in a parish. Speak with a priest, attend services regularly, and ask how to enter catechesis.

Learn what to expect

Integrate with study

Combine parish experience with thoughtful study of the faith. Our guides give vocabulary and context for what you hear in worship.

Explore core beliefs

Walk the journey step by step

The Holy Spirit invites you into communion with Christ and His Church. Use this roadmap to stay prayerful and grounded while discerning.

Pray and seek Christ

Pray with these texts

Ask God for clarity and humility. Begin or deepen a daily rule of prayer as you explore the Orthodox Church.

Use the Jesus Prayer and Psalms daily.
Read a short passage of Scripture with the day’s prayers.
Invite a friend or family member to pray with you weekly.

Visit a parish

What to listen for

Attend the Divine Liturgy and other services. Meet the priest, share your story, and ask about next steps.

Arrive early and stay for coffee hour to meet parishioners.
Let the priest know you are exploring Orthodoxy.
Note questions about what you heard and saw during worship.

Begin catechesis

Study core teachings

Formal instruction usually lasts several months. You will learn doctrine, worship, and Orthodox life with guidance from your priest.

Join parish classes or meet regularly with the priest.
Keep a journal of teachings, questions, and personal reflections.
Learn key terms from Scripture, the Fathers, and the services.

Embrace the rhythm

Live the faith

Practice repentance, fasting, confession, and regular communion. Grow into the calendar of feasts and fasts.

Adopt a beginner fast with your priest’s blessing.
Prepare for confession and keep a simple examen.
Celebrate major feasts with the parish community.

Prepare for reception

Learn the prayers

When the priest discerns readiness, you will be received through baptism or chrismation, making a public renunciation and confession of faith.

Choose sponsors/godparents with your priest.
Memorize the Nicene Creed and review the prayers for the service.
Plan to receive the Eucharist frequently after reception.

Frequently asked questions

Practical answers for inquirers and catechumens as you move toward the sacraments.

How long does becoming Orthodox take?

Timeframes vary by parish and individual readiness. Many inquirers spend months attending services before beginning catechesis, and catechumens often prepare for several additional months before reception.

Do I need a sponsor?

Most parishes ask catechumens to have an Orthodox sponsor or godparent. Your priest can help you discern someone local who will commit to praying with you and walking alongside you.

What should I read first?

Start with the Gospels, then learn the Creed, basic Orthodox prayers, and the shape of the Divine Liturgy. Our Orthodox Concepts guide and glossary provide a solid foundation.

How do fasting and confession work?

Fasting and confession are pastoral disciplines. Your priest will recommend a beginning fast and prepare you for confession, often before your reception into the Church.

Stay rooted in the Church

Attend Sunday Liturgy consistently and add a weekday service when possible.
Meet with your priest regularly to discern readiness for confession and reception.
Read Scripture and the lives of the saints with guidance from parish clergy.
Serve alongside parishioners—hospitality, charitable outreach, or choir.

Every step is pastoral. Stay in conversation with your priest about prayer, fasting, and reception so you can enter the Church with peace and confidence.