Entering the Orthodox Church

by Hierotheos Vlachos, Marina Mary Robb (Translator)

As we read “Entering the Orthodox Church” (the Greek original of which is the sixth book in the series “Theoria and Praxis” published by the Apostolic Ministry of the Church of Greece), we realize that it makes a significant contribution to the pastoral care of those entering the Orthodox Church. In addition it is a useful aid for those already baptized, in other words, for every faithful member of the Church. The task of Catechism should be undertaken responsibly and seriously, not in a secular or indiscriminate manner, because it is a blessed ministry. From its first beginnings the Church carefully prepared anyone wanting to become a member. Catechism was a journey towards purification, so that once purified, the person would be baptized and become a temple of the All-Holy Spirit. In our own day too, certain indispensable conditions must be fulfilled in order for Catechism to take place in a correct and Orthodox manner. In the author’s view, the fundamental prerequisite for proper Catechism is the existence of an experienced Catechist capable of adjusting the message on each occasion according to the requirements and interests of the Catechumen. The association of Catechism with worship and ascetic practice is also absolutely necessary, because otherwise it will be merely cerebral and theoretical. It is highly desirable for Catechumens to be associated with a Church community, either a parish or a monastery, where they will meet the truth that the Orthodox Church is a spiritual therapeutic community within which the illnesses of man’s soul are cured.

205 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

His Eminence Hierotheos, Metropolitan of Nafpaktos and Agios Vlassios in Greece, is regarded as one of the foremost authorities on the Orthodox spiritual life. A prolific writer, he has authored more than fifteen books, many of which have been translated into English. His Eminence’s theological vision may be summed up in the following quotation, taken from his The Science of Spiritual Medicine: “The whole therapeutic method of the Orthodox Church is not aimed simply at making human beings morally and socially balanced, but at re-establishing their relationship with God and one another. This comes about through the healing of the soul's wounds and the cure of the passions through the Sacraments and the Church's ascetic practice.”

Reviews

[Alex Szurkus · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Entering the Orthodox Church” by Metropolitan Hierotheos Vlachos is an excellent catechetical resource, making it invaluable for both clergy and those who are currently catechumens or inquirers. The book provides a thorough explanation of the salvific necessity of baptism, emphasizing its critical role in the life of a Christian. Vlachos also offers an in-depth exegesis of the scriptural parable of the prodigal son, unraveling its profound spiritual implications. Furthermore, the book introduces a base-level understanding of sin, explaining noetic sickness and the essential role of Christ’s Incarnation in healing this affliction. This concise introduction to these foundational topics makes it an essential read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the role of baptism in Orthodox Christian faith.

[Alan Rogers · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy to understand explanation of the core tenants of Orthodox Christianity and early-church catechism. Many things regarding conversion/catechism that potentially seem spooky will no longer seem spooky if you read this.