Joining a new church or faith can be a daunting and intimidating process. At St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church in Savannah, newcomers find not just a place of worship but a spiritual home. If you are wondering what it is like to attend for the first time, how the services flow, or what steps are needed to become a member, we are here to offer some clarity.
We understand that joining the orthodox faith is a deeply personal and spiritual journey. From your very first visit, you’ll find that the Orthodox faith is not just about rituals and traditions. It’s also about a relationship with God, community, and living out your faith each day.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of joining the Orthodox Church with a clear path, insights and some key considerations for your spiritual journey to help you begin with confidence.
Step 1: Attend Services and Connect with Orthodox Community
The best way to begin your journey into Orthodoxy is simply to come and experience a service. If you are in the Greater Savannah Area, you can experience your first liturgical service at St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church. The Great Vespers begins at 5:00 PM on Saturdays and the Divine Liturgical service starts at 9:30 AM on Sundays. It is the central act of worship, where the community gathers to pray, sing and celebrate God’s presence.
As you attend, you’ll gradually become familiar with the liturgy – the flow of rituals, the hymns and the traditions shaping the orthodox faith. It’s important to attend several services to immerse yourself in the liturgical life of the Church. Feel free to observe at first and gradually join in as you get comfortable.
But the services are more than prayer alone. Afterward, parishioners gather for Coffee Hour, a time to share food, conversation and stories of faith. This is often where newcomers feel most at home, as it gives you a chance to meet people, ask questions, and see how the Orthodox way of life is lived day to day. By coming regularly, both the worship and the friendships will begin to feel familiar, and you will start to experience what it means to belong to the Orthodox community.
Step 2: Meet with the Priest
After you’ve attended a few services and feel that Orthodoxy is something you want to pursue seriously, you can set up a meeting with Fr. Stephen Osburn. He can guide you on your spiritual journey into the Church and address your spiritual questions and experiences.
This conversation is about getting to know you and offering guidance as you explore joining the Church. You can ask about the Orthodox faith, sacraments, the meaning of the prayer and traditions, and the commitments involved. Fr. Stephen will also offer insight into the next steps and answer any questions you might have.
You can reach Fr. Stephen directly by email at frsteve@savannahorthodox.com and schedule a time to chat. He can offer you the support you need and help you understand how joining the Orthodox Church will help deepen your relationship with God.
If you are still unsure, watch Fr. Josiah Trenham’s insightful video on converting to Orthodoxy. His reflections offer a heartfelt perspective on embracing Orthodoxy.
Step 3: Begin the Catechumenate (Period of Instruction)
Once you’ve spoken with Fr. Stephen and decide to move forward, you’ll enter the catechumenate – a period of instruction that helps you learn more about the Orthodox faith. During this period, you’ll grow spiritually as you explore the teachings of the Church and begin to live out the practices of Orthodox Christianity.
The catechumenate binder will introduce you to Orthodox theology, history and the spiritual disciplines that shape our faith. You’ll learn about sacraments (like Baptism and the Eucharist), the importance of prayer and fasting, and how to engage in the Church’s sacramental life. This is a time for spiritual growth and deepening your relationship with God.
As part of this process, you’ll also be paired with a sponsor or godparent who will guide and support you. Your sponsor will be someone from the parish who has walked the Orthodox path before and can offer wisdom and companionship as you grow in the faith. They will mentor and guide you on the next steps of Baptism, Chrismation and the Eucharist.
Dive deeper into the meaning of baptism in Orthodox Christianity. Watch Fr. Josiah Trenham’s perspective on baptism, exploring its theological significance and implications for believers.
Step 4: Join the Orthodox Church
After completing the catechumenate, you’ll be ready for the final step in your journey: being received into the Church through Baptism and Chrismation. These sacraments are essential to your full membership in the Orthodox Church.
- Baptism: If you’ve not been baptized in another Christian tradition, you will undergo Baptism. In Orthodoxy, Baptism is a powerful sacrament where you are cleansed of sin and made a new creation in Christ.
- Chrismation: If you have already been baptized, you will receive Chrismation (anointing with holy oil). This sacrament seals you with the Holy Spirit and signifies your full membership in the Orthodox Church.
- The Eucharist: After Baptism and Chrismation, you will be able to receive the Holy Eucharist. The Eucharist is the Body and Blood of Christ, and it’s through this sacrament that we are united with Him and with each other as members of His Church.
These sacraments mark the culmination of your spiritual journey into the Orthodox Church and after receiving them, you will be able to participate in all of its sacraments like confession, marriage, holy orders and anointing of the sick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the journey take to join the Orthodox Church?
The process typically takes several months, as it involves a period of instruction (the catechumenate) and spiritual preparation. Everyone’s journey is different, and the time it takes will depend on your individual circumstances.
What to Wear to an Orthodox Church Service?
While there’s no strict dress code, modest and respectful attire is encouraged. For both men and women, it’s a good idea to avoid overly casual clothing like shorts, tank tops, or ripped jeans. For more clarity, read our guide on dress codes for a church service.
Do I need to be baptized before joining the Church?
If you have already been baptized in another Christian tradition, the Orthodox Church may recognize your baptism. However, if you haven’t been baptized, you will undergo Baptism as part of your initiation into the Church.
Can my children be baptized if I am not baptized?
In most cases, both parents should be baptized members of the Church for their children to be baptized. If you’re not yet baptized, we encourage you to speak with Fr. Stephen to discuss the options available to you.
Can I join the Orthodox Church in Savannah as an adult?
Yes! The Orthodox Church welcomes adults who are seeking to embrace the faith. The process of learning and initiation is open to anyone who desires to be part of the Orthodox community.
Conclusion: A Journey of Faith and Community
Joining the Orthodox Church is not just about completing a series of rituals; it’s about entering into a deep, lasting relationship with God and His Church. At St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church in Savannah, we are here to support you every step of the way. The parish is here to welcome you, support your questions, and celebrate each step you take. Whether you are just beginning to explore Orthodoxy or ready to commit more fully, the doors are open. Ready to begin? Plan your visit today, and take your first step into the beauty of Orthodox worship in Savannah.
