EXPLORING ORTHODOX CHRISTIANITY is a six-week experience for anyone interested in understanding better the faith, teachings, history, worship and practices of the Orthodox Christian Church. This Advent Unit (Saturdays Nov. 10 – Dec. 22) is complemented by a Lent Unit held in the Spring.
This evening program begins with 5pm Vespers on Saturday night, followed by a common potluck fasting meal (roughly 6pm, no meat or dairy, please) and a short presentation and discussion. One or more church members will give the presentation(s) and moderate the discussion. Each evening’s program should wrap up by 7-7:30pm.
This program is recommended for all interested (including Orthodox Christians, non-Christians or non-Orthodox Christians) and is also part of the standard preparation for formally enrolled catechumens of the parish (those who have made a commitment to become Orthodox Christians).
TOPIC SCHEDULE FOR ADVENT 2019
(subject to adjustment as needed):
November 16 – Church History Orientation
Overview
Ecumenical Councils
Historical sources
Also: Clergy & hierarchy
November 23 – Prayer in the Orthodox Tradition
Prayer in the Orthodox tradition (Personal and Corporate)
November 30 – Sacraments (Holy Mysteries) I
What are the Holy Mysteries?
Baptism
Chrismation
Eucharist
December 7 – Sacraments (Holy Mysteries) II
Marriage
Holy Unction
Holy Orders
Confession (Penance)
December 14 – Feasts and Fasts
The Church Year
Overview of Major Feasts
Overview of Major Fasts
Why fast?
December 21 – Other Topics
The Theotokos & Other Saints
Prayer with the saints
Stewardship / Ministry
Tradition / Scripture
