Catechism (κατήχησις) means “instruction” or “teaching.” In the Orthodox Church, it refers to the structured preparation and spiritual formation of individuals seeking to enter or grow in the faith. It includes the study of Holy Scripture, the Church Fathers, liturgical life, and the central doctrines of the Orthodox Church.
Catechism is not just intellectual—it’s transformational. It is a path toward communion with God, the Holy Trinity, and full participation in the sacramental life of the Church.
Understanding the One God in Three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
The Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed
The divine attributes of God: omnipotence, love, mercy, justice
The Incarnation: God becomes man
The Crucifixion and Resurrection
Christ’s role as Savior and Judge
The Ascension and Second Coming
The role of the Holy Spirit in the Church and in personal sanctification
The descent at Pentecost
Gifts and fruits of the Spirit
The Orthodox Church as the Body of Christ
Apostolic succession and the role of bishops, priests, and deacons
The importance of Holy Tradition and the Ecumenical Councils
The Orthodox Church recognizes seven primary sacraments:
Baptism – Entry into the life in Christ
Chrismation – Sealing with the Holy Spirit
Eucharist – Receiving the Body and Blood of Christ
Confession (Repentance) – Healing the soul through forgiveness
Marriage – A holy union blessed by God
Holy Orders – Ordination of clergy
Unction (Holy Anointing) – Healing of soul and body
The Bible: Old and New Testaments
The Church Fathers: St. Basil, St. John Chrysostom, St. Gregory the Theologian, etc.
Icons and Liturgical Worship
Daily prayer, morning and evening
The Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Fasting periods: Great Lent, Wednesdays and Fridays, the Nativity Fast, etc.
Feasts and fasts of the Church calendar
The Twelve Great Feasts
Veneration of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary) and the saints
