Conversion to Orthodox Christianity is a big undertaking, both in terms of its significance and the commitments it entails. For those who are feeling called to be a part of the Eastern Orthodox Church and its rich tradition, there can be no doubt that such a decision can be of an incomparable depth in its spiritual implications. There are a few key steps that can be taken in order to understand and eventually convert to the Eastern Orthodox faith.
The first step for those wanting to convert to Orthodox Christianity is to become educated about the faith and its religious practices. The best way to do this is to take part in a religious education class offered at an Orthodox Church. Upon completion of a class, an individual will have a greater understanding of the basic beliefs and practices of the Orthodox Christian faith, as well as a greater understanding of the complex theology associated with the Eastern Orthodox Church.
The next step is to attend an Orthodox Church regularly and familiarize oneself with the ways of the Orthodox faith. Attending regular services, making time to attend special events, and making time to talk with those of like faith is key to becoming and feeling part of the Orthodox Church. Questions and conversations that arise should not be brushed aside as they can help an individual come to a greater understanding of the faith they are considering converting to.
The third step is to fully commit to the Orthodox faith by visiting a priest or spiritual father to discuss the idea of conversion and the commitments it entails. Looming questions about how the commitment to Orthodox Christianity might conflict with other commitments in the individual’s life are certain to arise, and the spiritual father is best equipped to help the individual better understand their thoughts and feelings and their role as a member of the Orthodox Church. It is important to note that the Orthodox Church requires of its members to follow certain rules. It is part of the role of the spiritual father to go over what is required of them.
The fourth step is for the individual to take Holy Communion three times before conversion. Here, the individual will receive the Holy Eucharist and partake in the Lord’s Supper in communion with the Church. This ceremony is greatly symbolic and can be profoundly moving. As a result, individuals should make sure that they are properly prepared both mentally and spiritually before taking this important step. Additionally, they can speak with their spiritual father before and after each Communion to discuss any questions or queries they might have.
Partaking in the Mystery of Baptism
After three communions, the fifth step is for the individual to take part in the Mystery of Baptism. In the Orthodox Church; baptism is seen as part of the fuller conversion to Orthodox Christianity. It is through Baptism that conversion is made complete and the individual is accounted a fully initiated member of the Church. It is an important part of this step to add meaning to the baptism and understand what it means to make a commitment to the Orthodox faith.
The sixth step is to receive a Chrismation. Chrismation is an anointing with the Holy Oil which is believed to indwell the faithful Christian with the Holy Spirit and gives the individual spiritual strength and discernment. This step is an important one in that it marks the baptized as part of a larger communion of the Church, and one that encompasses the faith not just of the individual, but of the entire Body of God.
The seventh and final step of conversion to Orthodox Christianity is to receive a formal greeting from the priest and be welcomed into the Church. This usually happens when the individual returns for their fourth Communion after their baptism and Chrismation. This is the moment when the initiation into the Orthodox Church is complete and an individual is welcomed as a fully initiated and accepted member of the Church.
Receiving Support and Encouragement
For those feeling called to convert to Orthodox Christianity, it is important to remember that they are not alone and that there are many resources available to help them along this spiritual journey. They can speak to their spiritual father or members of church to receive support and guidance. Additionally, there are numerous books and publications available on Orthodox Christianity that can help provide knowledge and understanding of the faith.
For individuals feeling the need to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the Orthodox faith, they can look into following all of the feasts and fasts associated with the Church. Doing so helps members appreciate the rich history and cultural value of the Orthodox Church and its faith. Additionally, participating in prayers and celebration times can bring comfort and support to those on the path to conversion.
Finally, for those who are separated in distance from a local Orthodox Church and want to explore what it means to be part of the Orthodox Church, online resources provide a wealth of knowledge and a true community feel. From blogs to churches, there are numerous virtual ways to meet other Orthodox believers, ask questions, and gain a greater understanding of the Christian faith.
Looking Beyond Conversion
Conversion to Orthodox Christianity entails much more than just fulfilling the steps involved in the process. Conversion can often bring many questions and uncertainties into an individual’s life; and while it is an important event, it is just the beginning of an individual’s journey as a member of the Church.
A great way to deepen one’s understanding and ensure a regular connection with the Orthodox faith is to take part in church-sponsored activities. This can include anything from Bible study to discussion groups, or even service-based activities. All of these are great opportunities to grow as an Orthodox believer and deepen connections to the greater Orthodox Christian community.
Additionally, if an individual is feeling called to serve the Orthodox Church in another capacity, they can look into volunteering with ministries or outreach programs. There are a wide variety of opportunities available and such activities help individuals become even more integrated into the Church.
It is also important for individuals to remember that the Orthodox Church is inherently rooted in tradition and rituals. As such, a regular partaker of Holy Communion and other rituals throughout the liturgical cycle will help reinforce an individual’s connection to the faith and to the Church at large.
Understanding Orthodoxy
Conversion to Orthodox Christianity can feel like a weighty prospect, as one comes to terms with all that is expected of them as a member of the Church. Yet, it is also a beautiful journey and one that can bring great consolation and peace of mind.
It is important to recognize the significance of converting to Orthodox Christianity and all the commitments that come with the process, both in terms of personal commitments to the faith and the traditional commitments that come with it. It is also important to deepen an individual’s appreciation of the faith and all that it entails, and to strengthen the connection to the larger Orthodox Christian community.
Finally, it is important to remember that conversion to Orthodox Christianity is not a one-time event, but a process that continues throughout an individual’s faith life. As such, it is not just the final step of becoming an Orthodox Christian that is important, but all the steps that are taken afterwards to deepen faith and appreciation.
The Role of Faith in Conversion
The Orthodox faith is deeply rooted in spirituality and prayer, and thus, it is important for an individual to deepen a personal relationship with Christ through prayer and fasting. This can help individuals understand the Orthodox faith on a more personal level, which can in turn bolster their connection to the Church and its beliefs. Furthermore, relying on faith during conversion can also provide assurance that God is journeying with individuals and upholding them as they take this significant step.
Additionally, there is great strength to be found in prayer throughout the seventh step and when receiving a formal greeting from the priest. Relying on faith in moments such as these helps to reinforce hope and trust and can even lend to a greater sense of peace and purpose.
Lastly, taking part in activities within the Church and growing in holiness is a crucial element of conversion to the Orthodox Church. Taking part in activities such as confession, partaking in special services and even fasting can help an individual understand the fullness of the Orthodox faith, as well as deepen their commitment to Christ and the Church. Additionally, taking part in these activities can help individuals come to terms with the responsibilities and commitments that come with being an Orthodox Christian.
Staying Committed to the Faith
Conversion to Orthodox Christianity often comes with the fears of whether an individual’s faith will last, and how their commitments to the faith will stand when faced with trials and tribulations. Here, it is important to remember that prayer and faith play a great role in sustaining an individual’s journey. Additionally, attending services, reading and studying scriptures, and spending quality time with fellow Orthodox Christians can be instrumental in helping an individual stay committed to the faith.
Furthermore, support from family, friends and the community at large can have a tremendous impact. Asking for help and company when it is needed can make a world of difference and provide the strength and willpower that an individual needs to not just persevere in the faith, but to truly grow in it.
Ultimately, conversion to Orthodox Christianity is a deeply spiritual journey and one that is best taken with prayer and personal discernment. By taking careful steps to ensure a deeper understanding and appreciation of the faith, individuals can come to a greater understanding of what being an Orthodox Christian truly means and how to stay committed to the faith throughout all trials and joys.
Preserving the Orthodox Faith
It is often said that Orthodox Christianity is just as much a preservation of the faith as it is a faith itself. This means that those converting to Orthodox Christianity must be ever mindful of cherishing and protecting the faith and its traditions even as they come to understand them better.
A great way to achieve a greater connection to the faith is to read and discuss scriptures. Not only does this bring individuals closer to God, but it also provides insights and a greater appreciation for the faith for its adherents. As such, it is not only recommended to take part in church studies, but also to purchase and read books by authors and theologians in order to gain further knowledge and understanding.
Another way to preserve the Orthodox faith is to travel to places with a strong Orthodox Christian presence, such as Greece and the Middle East. Visiting these countries and experiencing the beauty and grandeur of their Orthodox churches and monastaries can help individuals come to understand the faith even more, while also providing a deeper connection to the faith itself.
Finally, by keeping a strong connection to the Church, individuals can better understand and preserve the faith. This means regularly attending services and participating in prayer, confession, and holy activities in order to nourish their souls and stay connected. Doing so will help individuals come to terms with their commitment to the Church and help contribute to its wider preservation for future generations.
