Questions
Is the Journey to Orthodoxy Network only in the USA?
No. We are accepting applicants from all over the globe. We field inquiries from places far and varied. The only requirement is that we are able to communicate in English (my only language – sorry), to make our common work seamless.
Will this cost me a lot of extra work?
In almost all cases, no, it should not. Most of us clergy already answer sporadic calls from inquirers. The only difference is that in this case, you may be required (by their location) to direct them to a nearer parish. You may be receiving a new individual into your parish, and maybe a new family! If someone in your area reaches out to us asking about becoming Orthodox, we will direct them to you, our certified Network Captain. From there, we expect consistent results for your contacts, and consistent direction regarding their next steps.
How often will I get contacts?
Not often, but when it happens, we expect you to take action.
What is someone lives so far out that they can’t attend an Orthodox parish, or can only attend sporadically?
This is a pastoral issue, so we want to connect the inquirer to the nearest Orthodox priest, so that they can begin a good spiritual relationship. Local contact is the key. No one should slip through the net.
Okay, what do I do if they wish to join the Parish? Is there material for catechumens?
Yes, material is available for newcomers to your parish. Our recommended steps for entrance into the parish are
- a New Members Class,
- Catechumen Classes, and
- an Introduction to the Interior Life Class.
We have materials for each of these and they will be available for purchase to Network Captains so that they can seamlessly integrate new visitors and inquirers into the process of entering the Orthodox Church at the local parish.
I’m too busy to teach classes to inquirers. Will you have any online video classes available?
Yes. We are working on that right now. Your inquirers will be able to view weekly video classes, which you can follow up with discussion and answer questions.