The Orthodox Christian
Before we speak about the Orthodox Church at large, it is important to discuss what it means to be an Orthodox Christian. In this section we’ll discuss catechism (the process of becoming a Christian) and general life as an Orthodox Christian.
Catechism
Catechism is the process of preparation by which an adult, not born into the faith, becomes a member of the Church. This preparation includes attending the Divine Liturgy, education in the faith, rites and traditions of the Church, learning the differences between Christianity and other religions, having one-on-one meetings with a priest regarding the transition, and ultimately the sacrament of baptism.
Classes
To become a member in the Church, catechumens must be baptized. However, before baptism catechumens take classes on the basic principles of the Church’s theology and practices. They also attend Bible studies and liturgies in order to participate in all aspects of church life.
Baptism
When a catechumen is ready to join the faith, they are baptized. To prepare for baptism, catechumens fast from all food and drink from midnight of the night before their baptism until after partaking of their first communion. This communion occurs at the Divine Liturgy on the same day as their baptism. During the sacrament of baptism, the priest blesses the waters to prepare it for the baptized person. The catechumen dresses in a white tunic, and the priest immerses them in the water three times in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). They are given a new baptismal name to represent their spiritual rebirth, and they become full members of the Orthodox Church which is the Body of Christ.
Immediately after their baptism, they then attend their first liturgy. As new converts, they are the first to receive communion. After the service is complete, they participate in a procession that is performed around the entire church to celebrate the second birth of a new member into the church family. Baptisms are joyous occasions where the entire church comes together and praises God for the new addition to the faith.
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