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[COLOR=#003300]HOW DO I BECOME ORTHODOX? [/COLOR]
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In the past, Orthodox churches in America were identified primarily by their ethnic backgrounds, such as Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, Antiochian (Syrian) Orthodox, etc.. These churches were founded by immigrants who still spoke the languages of their original homelands. Therefore, the Divine Liturgy was conducted in those languages. This made it difficult for non-Orthodox visitors to join the Orthodox community.
Today the primary language in the Divine Liturgy is English. Orthodox churches in America are now growing rapidly. In the Metropolis of Denver the majority of our priests are non-Greek, and about one-third are converts to the Orthodox Christian faith.
It is possible to become an Orthodox Christian through study of the Orthodox faith and through the sacraments of Baptism and Chrismation (anointing with oil to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit). For anyone previously baptized in a Christian church according to the Trinitarian formula, the baptism is not repeated; such persons are admitted to the Orthodox Church through Chrismation alone. Those who were never baptized, or who belonged to a non-Christian sect (such as Latter-Day Saints or Jehovah’s Witnesses), or who were baptized by a non-traditional formula, receive an Orthodox baptism.
The first step is to discuss with your priest how to be admitted to the Church. As a Catechumen (“one who is taught”) you will meet regularly with your priest for classes. Most catechumens prepare over a period of six months, but the time varies with each individual. The priest will provide you with reading materials and will try to answer your questions. Most important is simply to attend the Divine Liturgy regularly and to take part in the activities of the church.
You will also need:
+ a sponsor (nouno or nouna). Your sponsor will help you learn the customs and traditions of the Orthodox Church and will take part in your baptism and/or chrismation. Your sponsor will become a close family friend.
+ a saint. If you like, your priest will help you find a saint to be your patron, to serve as an example for you and to pray for you. You will use this name at Holy Communion. You may celebrate the saint’s feast-day as your “second birthday.”
If you are already married, but were married outside the Orthodox Church, you will need to celebrate a sacramental marriage in the Church once you become Orthodox. Your priest will help you with the preparations and selection of a sponsor (koumbaro) for your marriage. This could be your baptismal sponsor, or someone new to add to your family.
Deciding to become an Orthodox Christian requires dedication to Christ. Orthodox Christians fast on Wednesdays and Fridays and through four seasons of the Church year. The services are often long and there is much to learn. However, there is no deeper spiritual grace on Earth than to belong to the historic Body of Christ. Welcome to Orthodoxy!

© 2008

Citat din Viata personala si activitatea religioasa a Reverendului
Rev. Economos Brendan Pelphrey
sursa:
http://www.gosaintgeorge.org/vsItemD...method=display