August 3, 2005
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I like Toddbert’s blog entry today. Some good advice.
“Don’t use the internet as a catechism.”
“Go to as many services as you can. Attend the Divine Liturgy every Sunday for a while; it takes a bit of time to understand what is going on. Hang out at coffee hour. Talk to the priest’s wife, if you’re nervous about meeting people– she’ll usually help you get over the jitters.”
“If you’re comfortable with it, talk to the priest. Tell him where you are on your journey; talk to him about your background. Most parishes offer classes for newcomers– they may call them catechism classes, or studies in the faith, or something like that. These will be your best, truest sources of information. They are usually taught by priests, which is great, as you’ll get lots of time to ask lots of questions. Ask lots of questions.”
“Don’t be in a rush, even if you decide that Orthodoxy is right for you. Enjoy your time as a catachumen. If you decide it’s right, then you’ll convert when you and the Church are ready for each other. My own converstion was pretty “quick” by Orthodox standards, some priests will want you to wait. Don’t worry if they do. They just want to make sure that you’re making the right decision. “
“And wear comfortable shoes. You have to stand a lot.”
Comments (11)
Cool entry. My dad keeps saying I should visit an Orthodox service or two if I’m so interested, but I don’t know why I’m nervous about it. I guess because I feel I might be out of place or not know what to do. It’s not like they’d condemn me as a heretic or anything :p I’m probably just over-thinking the whole thing… :rolleyes:
I liked his entry, too. I said there, and I’ll repeat here, that I think I may have been using the internet that way. But, there are no inquirers classes right now at this parish, and the priest and I have each been too busy to really meet so far. Soon, hopefully.
“And wear comfortable shoes. You have to stand a lot.”
Isn’t that the truth! My first and so far only visit to an OC was cut short , partly because of the never ending standing, the heat, being pregnant, and it was all in Greek. The only parts I “understood” was the Our Father and the Apostle’s Creed and only because recognized the rythm :lol:
I am used to the Lutheran aerobics, stand up, sit down, kneel :p
:giggle: “Wear comfy shoes.” AMEN!
I do understand about not using the internet as your catechism. Just reading the words out of the context of application can make the orthodox POV seem harsher than it is. Actual application and community bear out what the life of orthodoxy really is.
:yes:It is St. Elizabeth’s in Columbia. It is a lovely and small church and I really think it’s going to be great for me to grow in.
”Wear comfy shoes.”
i learned that one real fast.
Lisa–I responded to your response at Toddbert’s blog.
Tamara I responded to your response. :wink:
Thanks for the link. I just may go saturday…they’re having a class.
Great quote Lisa! :coolman: The internet has been very helpful in getting me started, but now it’s time to move into the real world! Please pray for me that I will have the courage to attend the service this Sunday.
Praying!! :heartbeat: