Catechism is an online program for anyone seeking a foundation in the Orthodox Christian faith. It is especially helpful for inquirers, catechumens, and parish members who want to understand the Church’s apostolic roots, worship, and teaching. No prior Orthodox faith knowledge is necessary.
Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding.
Proverbs 3:13
Course Format
- No prior Orthodox faith knowledge is necessary.
- Study online through recorded video lessons in the St. Paul Education Portal.
- Enroll in the whole Catechism program to take its six classes in order, one class at a time. When you pass a class, the next class opens automatically.
- Each class has an 8-week completion period from enrollment.
- Watch the required lessons and complete the quizzes and tests. Catechism requires a score of 100% to pass, with up to two attempts and 60 minutes per quiz or test.
- Classes you have already completed in another program count toward Catechism. Your completed classes are retained if you withdraw and enroll again.
What You Will Study
Explore the Orthodox understanding of salvation, Holy Tradition, the communion of saints, the origins of the Church, and the Divine Liturgy. Learn how Orthodox teaching relates to Roman Catholic and Protestant beliefs, and connect what you study with the prayer and sacramental life of the Church.
Course Curriculum
1. Intercession of the Saints
- What the Church means by intercession
- Intercession and Christ’s unique mediation
- The unity of the saints and living believers
- The place of intercession in Orthodox prayer
2. Holy Tradition
- The meaning of Holy Tradition
- Scripture’s place within the life of the Church
- The contribution of the Church Fathers
- Apostolic faith and local customs
3. Where Did the Orthodox Church Come from?
- The beginnings of the Church after Pentecost
- Early Christian communities
- The development of Church leadership and ministry
- The apostolic foundations of Orthodox life
4. Liturgy Series
- The meaning of the Raising of Incense
- The Offering of the Lamb
- The Liturgy of the Word
- The prayers of the Liturgy of the Faithful
5. Salvation in the Orthodox Understanding
- The Fall and Christ’s saving work
- Grace, living faith, and the believer’s response
- Baptism, chrismation, confession, and Communion
- Repentance, perseverance, and ongoing sanctification
6. Comparative Theology
- Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant teachings
- Church authority, the Creed, and interpreting Scripture
- Salvation, sacraments, and the response to grace
- Differences in ministry, fasting, and denominational practices
Apostolic Faith
Build a clearer understanding of the faith handed down in the Church through Scripture, Holy Tradition, and the witness of the saints.
Worship and Christian Life
Understand the prayers of the Divine Liturgy and the place of repentance and the sacraments in our life in Christ.
Catechism Enrollment
Use the button below to sign in or create a St. Paul Education Portal account. You will be taken directly to Catechism, where you can enroll in the whole program and begin the first class. If you are already signed in, the button opens Catechism directly.
Interested in Catechism?
Contact us to ask questions, get more information, join, or find the right way to serve.
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