Catechesis

Basics of the Faith

A gentle introduction to Eastern Orthodox Christianity—what we believe, how we worship, and how the life of prayer shapes the heart.

Lit candles in a church shrine, representing prayer and holy tradition.
Where to begin

The heart of Orthodox faith

Orthodoxy is not only a set of ideas—it is a life in Christ, received in the Church and lived through worship, repentance, and love.

On this page you’ll find a simple overview of the essentials: Holy Tradition and Scripture, the Creed, the Trinity, the Incarnation, salvation as healing, and the sacramental life. Each section points you to prayers and liturgical texts so learning stays connected to worship.

Read the Divine Liturgy
Baptismal font and candles inside a church, symbolizing entry into the life of the Church.

Core teachings, simply explained

These foundations are shared across the Orthodox Church. They’re best learned slowly—alongside prayer, the services, and a local parish community.

Holy Trinity

One God in three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—an eternal communion of love.

Jesus Christ

True God and true man. In His life, Cross, and Resurrection, Christ conquers death and restores us to life.

The Creed

The Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed summarizes the faith confessed in baptism and proclaimed in the Liturgy.

Holy Scripture

The Bible is read within the Church’s worship and teaching, illuminating Christ and forming the mind of the faithful.

Holy Tradition

The living continuity of the Church: worship, councils, saints, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit across the ages.

The Church

The Body of Christ—a Eucharistic community where faith is lived, not merely studied.

Salvation as healing

God’s grace restores the human person. We grow in communion with God through repentance, prayer, and the virtues.

Prayer & ascetic life

Daily prayer, fasting, and almsgiving train the heart toward love of God and neighbor.

Common questions

Basics—answered with care

If you’re exploring Orthodoxy, questions are part of the journey. Here are a few starting points.

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