WELCOME TO ORTHODOX CATECHISM

Our goal is to give the background needed for an understanding and appreciation for Orthodoxy.

This class is by no means a definitive or complete guide to Orthodoxy. Below are the current lessons offered for catechism.


SESSION 1BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BYZANTINE CHURCH

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Video Quiz
SESSION 2STRUCTURE OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH

– Timeline of the Orthodox Church
– Church Structure
– Church Governance
– Clerical Offices
SESSION 3HOLY (AND CULTURAL) TRADITION IN THE ORTHODOX CHURCH

– Definition and Sources of Holy Traditions
– Symbols and Sacraments
SESSION 4THE LITURGICAL YEAR AND THE GREAT FEASTS OF THE CHURCH
SESSION 5SERVICES OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH

– Origins of the Liturgical Right
– Liturgical Services
– Sacramental Services
– Special Services
– Devotional Services
SESSION 6PRACTICES OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH

– Making the Sign of the Cross
– Intercessory Prayers
– Byzantine Chant
– Orthodox Liturgical Musical Terms
– Purpose of Candles
– Prostrations
– Fasting
SESSION 7SACRAMENTS OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH – PART 1

– Baptism
– Holy Unction
– Chrismation
– Role of the Godparent
SESSION 8SACRAMENTS OF THE ORTHODOX CHURCH – PART 2

– Holy Eucharist
Marriage
– Confession
SESSION 9SERVICES OF LENT AND HOLY WEEK 

– Great Lent
Lazarus Saturday
– Palm Sunday
– Bridegroom Services – Monday and Tuesday
– Holy Wednesday – Holy Unction
– Holy Thursday – 12 Gospel Readings
– Good Friday – Un-nailing of Christ from the Cross and the Lamentations
– Holy Saturday Morning – Proti Anastatsis
– Holy Saturday Evening – Resurrection & Divine Liturgy
– Easter Sunday Agape Service

– Bright Week
SESSION 10END OF LIFE DECISIONS

– Death, Dying, Euthanasia, and Suicide
– Burial and Cremation
– Orthodox Funeral and Memorial Service Guidelines