How to Become an Orthodox Christian (Pencils & Prayer Ropes)

[@BibleIllustrated]

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[@MateoGLopez]

🇬🇷☦️📖❤️‍🔥 i gonna help you Brothers

[@nel7105]

I was a catechumen for 3 years and was finally chrismated Christmas Eve and took communion for the first time Christmas Day. Trust in the process ☦️

[@mareeolina7157]

Many years!!!

[@neotradnous]

Why so long? Also were you a Catholic before? God bless

[@nel7105]

@@neotradnous I was Catholic before. My spiritual father instructed 3 years as a catechumen because thats how the early church functioned. After finishing my 3 years I can understand why. It’s a whole process of learning a whole new way of life.

[@neotradnous]

@@nel7105 wow that’s amazing.

[@Und34d_R]

I've been a learner for the better part of a year now. Not even catechumen yet. It's frustrating sometimes but takes time.

[@Bobthe0strich]

I am new to Orthodoxy and I am on the step of leaving my comfort zone and attending a church nearby. This step is a lot harder than I imagined. Especially being someone who is very shy and timid. I also would be going alone because no one I know is Orthodox or Christian really for that matter. It is so nerve racking! I have been putting this off for weeks and know that it has to be done deep down and sooner than later. For now I will continue to read and study my OSB and watch content like yours. Thank you.

[@Bobthe0strich]

@@67serene that is awesome! I am very happy for you. Thanks for sharing. I will muster up the strength and courage one of these days.

[@nuzzi6620]

Just do it! Don’t worry about feeling out of place or anything-just come a bit earlier, before the service starts, find a spot near the back or in a corner where you’re out of the way, and just take it all in, watching everything and everyone. That’s the least uncomfortable way to do it if you’re nervous, unfamiliar with the whole thing, don’t know anyone there yet and are afraid of disturbing anything (which you won’t). Honestly, the hardest thing is the act of physically going through the doors for the first time; once you’re in, you probably won’t want to leave! Really, just do it. Don’t forget that God wants you in His house, and that any active thought against visiting His holy temple is probably not from Him (if you catch my drift). If you have an OCA or Antiochian parish nearby, that should be your first choice with regard to the most comfortable first-time experience. OCA is the “native” American jurisdiction with history going all the way back to the 1700’s in Russian Alaska, while the Antiochian Archdiocese, though originally founded by Arab Orthodox from the Middle East, is constituted in large part by converts and was/is responsible for the vast majority of Orthodox evangelization efforts in the lower 49 states. English-language services (though Antiochian parishes with Arab congregants often retain at least a little Arabic), lots of friendly converts, more authentically American culture, very seeker-friendly. No parish is perfect, of course, but chances are you’ll find a safe space in a local OCA parish. If, instead, you have a church of a more “ethnic” jurisdiction nearby (eg. Greek, Russian, Serbian, etc), don’t let that stop you! Granted, it really might or might not be a more uncomfortable first-time experience for a variety of reasons, whether it’s due to a language barrier, unfamiliarity on the part of parishioners with non-ethnic visitors, culture shock on your end, or other reasons. Very generally speaking, you might find that some Greek parishes, for example, can be a little more focused on their cultural heritage and a little more liberal in certain matters, while Russian and Serbian parishes are typically quite traditional and not as easily penetrated by less-committed inquirers. The West-especially North America-is unusual in the broad scope of Christian history in that our nations are immigrant nations, which has lead to several different Orthodox jurisdictions and cultures together in the same places, whereas in the past each nation naturally had their own churches. It’s an unfortunate but inevitable thing that we’ll have to resolve soon, God-willing. For now, we have to make the most of what we do have here. Regardless of your particular circumstances, you should attend whatever church is closest to you, talk to the priest and, with prayer, go from there. Trust that God will guide you and lead you to where you need to be, even if at first it’s difficult and hard to see where you’re headed! At the end of the day, however, ethnic parish or not, Orthodox Christianity often necessitates a paradigm shift, an adoption of a new culture (of the true body of Christ, not mere nationalities), the start of a new journey. It’s not meant to be easy or comfortable, and if it is, you’re probably doing something wrong. Sorry for all the words! I just really want to encourage you to get your butt into a church sooner rather than later; there’s no real reason to wait, there isn’t much you can do to prepare yourself for it aside from actually doing it, you know. Follow some of the advice I gave you and you’re likely to find yourself wishing you came sooner. There’s a reason why so many of us walking into an Orthodox church for the first time will tell you that we left that place feeling like we’d finally come home. Our holy Church and holy faith doesn’t just belong to us-it’s your heritage and inheritance, and it’s waiting for you to take hold of it. God bless you!

[@Bobthe0strich]

@@nuzzi6620 thank you for the thought-out response. It’s very informative and helpful! I will and do put my trust in Him. After my “come to Jesus” moment on Thanksgiving I prayed for his guidance and within days I had been lead to orthodoxy 😬 thank you again for the encouraging words, I will get my butt in there ASAP. God bless ☦️🙏🏼

[@dj393]

Try contacting the priest before you go. He can have someone keep an eye out for you and help you know what to do when you get there. I had my son who converted to an OCA church before me, but I do know a young timid girl who contacted our priest before she came. My experience is that Orthodox churches are very welcoming.

[@Bobthe0strich]

@@dj393 That would definitely make the first experience more comfortable. Thank you for the suggestion!

[@MrChi31]

Currently a catechumen. Please pray for my family’s conversion as well. Edit: I was finally baptized on August 26th, 2023. St Nektarios is my patron saint!! Thank you for your hard work Bojan!

[@TheMOV13]

Right up to date! May you experience peace in the battles that have to be fought, day by day.

[@Stalker950-l3x]

I had my church wedding on the same day. God bless you brother.

[@zealousideal]

Beautiful!! Wow that’s a good Saint. Did you see the movie 🎥 about him that recently released about two years back??

[@trueindian3073]

Become a Jesus follower and not a Christianity follower, a Jesus follower cannot be a Christianity follower... Christianity is nothing but a political agenda , they bribe to convert to make follow Jesus, they destroy a lands culture, they destroy a civilization... And Jesus never asked to bribe people.... Following Jesus is truth and following Christianity is evil

[@trueindian3073]

​@@Stalker950-l3x Become a Jesus follower and not a Christianity follower, a Jesus follower cannot be a Christianity follower... Christianity is nothing but a political agenda , they bribe to convert to make follow Jesus, they destroy a lands culture, they destroy a civilization... And Jesus never asked to bribe people.... Following Jesus is truth and following Christianity is evil

[@sjappiyah4071]

As a Protestant, who has been interested in learning about Orthodoxy it’s been hard to find information and resources in English. As opposed to Catholics it seemed like Orthodox’s kept more to themselves and weren’t interested in evangelism. This video was VERY helpful , though I’m somewhat settled in my beliefs this was greatly appreciated. God bless.

[@左アリ]

Orthodoxy is hard to get, especially if you were raised in the west, but once you get it, it is like having a 99 lvl power armor and a big nuke bazooka, it's OP.

[@eldermillennial8330]

They were not so much not interested in evangelism as they’ve been largely kept on the defensive and bottled up in their home countries for CENTURIES by Islamic oppression until recently, except Russia being the odd one out. Russian introversion was almost entirely political, ever since one particularly paranoid Czar outlawed the Moscow Patriarchate, forcing Russian Orthodoxy to be run by a committee of Bishops instead for hundreds of years, who focused on maintaining Russian interests instead of evangelism, partly also due to a desire to keep out the Ottoman threat, as well as Protestantism and Jesuits. Orthodoxy as a whole was simply trapped in various defensive modes. It didn’t help that the Siberian traps were impenetrable save for the most hardy Ainu hunters until British contractors built the first railroad through that hellish place, after which Russia suddenly had direct contact with Japan. If not for the Traps, Orthodox missionaries might have reached Japan in Saint Palamas’s day! Of course, Russian Orthodoxy then was oppressed by the Commies, ironically, just as Orthodoxy everywhere else was being liberated from the Ottomans.

[@HeatherGreenjsyk]

@@eldermillennial8330 I think it shows the true testament to what its like to live out the faith, especially with it still managing to exist in Christianity's birthland for two millennia. They command our respect.

[@hattorihanzo2275]

You're not kidding. I was visiting a spectacular used bookstore white row, library sized, rows of books. The religion section only has one small section on a shelf for Orthodox and the few books there were overflow of Catholicism.

[@kounias5108]

Orthodox church is the Real church. others eg Catholics are heretics million of proves

[@loverlei79]

I got lucky and came across the orthodox church through a co worker. After several questions out of curiosity over a work desk icon, she invited me to church. I happily went and it was love at first sight. My priest made me take my time and i spent 2 years going before i was Catechised. I needed to learn alot and since I was a chronic church hopper my priest wanted me to experience long time commitment. It was well worth it and I've been Orthodox now for well over 15 years and can't imagine ever being anything else.

[@MrProfchaos71]

Do you pray to saints or believe that we must pray to a saint to go to Jesus and intercede for us to gain forgiveness like Mari Emmanuel says ?

[@scoon2117]

That's the story I want for my life.

[@countryboyred]

As a Protestant searching for truth, thank you so much for this informative video. Glory to God.

[@voievod9260]

Hi, Im just a simple Orthodox christian. Not a priest, not a theologian. But i have a bit of knowledge of my faith (not to brag), a catechisis book and a close bond with my spiritual father. If you want, I can help you with your questions and the ones i don't know I can ask my spiritual father. If you want we can speak in private.

[@countryboyred]

@@voievod9260 thank you so much, that would actually be quite helpful to me as I do have a few questions concerning some dogmas of the Church. What would be the best way to contact you? Again thank you very much. ☦️

[@voievod9260]

My Steam name is the same as my youtube channel name minus the numbers and the @ at the beggining.

[@voievod9260]

Can you add your email to your youtube channel?

[@voievod9260]

I have posted my email address in my channel description.

[@SweetImmaculateHeart]

What a timely video for me. I have been slowly learning about Orthodoxy for the past few years though books and online resources (including your youtube channel) and on New Years Eve I finally reached out via email to the parish closest to me (nearly an hour away. And YES your recent video on the monk who was blessed by his perseverance in carrying water helped me greatly to finally take the step), and I will be visiting and attending my first liturgy this coming Sunday. My journey begins! Thank you for all your videos.

[@MaximusAugustusOrthodox]

Nice to see people who are interested in the Orthodox Church ☦️ God bless you and your family 🙏❤️

[@andreybeliy1884]

I'm happy for you! May the God guide you through all your life!

[@ashraine6684]

I have a similar story! Through lots of soul searching and studying, I landed on Orthodoxy close to 2 years ago. I also don’t have a hometown Orthodox Church, but I travelled an hour away and attended my first Divine Liturgy and coffee hour this past Sunday. 🙏🏼

[@TheMOV13]

How was the church visit? Are you continuing the pathway?

[@SweetImmaculateHeart]

@@TheMOV13 It is going wonderfully. We have been attending the same parish faithfully each week since January. The church offers an Inquirer's class from September through February. We begin classes next week. We hope to become catechumens. My children love it, the parishioners are close knit and so welcoming, we love our priest, and the long distance (45 min drive from our home) has turned out to not be so bad. At least as far as for liturgy once a week. We do have plans to move early next year to be closer to our church and have the ability to more easily attend more services throught the week.

[@W-G]

Thank you for the information, I am a 27yo New Zealand European Catholic (returned from 13 years of agnosticism and despair). I find that The Orthodox art and music has captured my spirit unlike the catholic church which is very strange mix of music and the new building here lacks any art at all. I love the beauty and strong tradition in Orthodox but yet to go any further than internet. I will read the books recommended and I am lucky there is a Beautiful Greek orthodox church 1 hour away and also a small Monastary an hour the other direction. God willing I can battle my anxiety and make progress in conversion and reach out to Father George. God bless you.

[@BibleIllustrated]

Hello, thank you for your donation! Do reach out to him! Anxiety is a horrible thing, I have issues with it occasionally, I can only imagine how difficult it might be for someone who has a more acute form. Great is you reward in Heaven! - Bojan

[@Patristix]

Thank you guys for the shoutout, and for the work that you do ❤☦🎬

[@merkel7647]

Hey there! In good faith I need to ask you a few things if I may: The comparison you guys made with Catholics and oriental churches as if you could put them on the same group is honestly not very good. Despite all of our differences, why did you put them in the same group. If I may ask as well: why is it that so many parishes and orthodox churches have returned to the catholic communion and have seeked to change its possible error in union while the orthodox churches have been in a path of desunion and self-destruction because of its earthly, political and ethnic problems if they are supposed to be the ONE catholic church ?

[@BibleIllustrated]

Because we see them as having a valid baptism. That is why they're in one group.

[@andrewbiggins9404]

Thank you for your very helpful video. As a 54 year old British man with no previous faith in his life up to now, I am taking the first steps to enter the Orthodox Church. I am lucky to have both a Russian and Greek Othodox Church on my doorstep and have attended both. I spoke to the Priest at the Greek Othodox Church yesterday, before Great Vespers, and will be returning for Holy Liturgy today. The journey begins!

[@r.m.k.1974]

Islam is only truth

[@TheMOV13]

How are you getting on, 7 months later? I was admitted to Holy Orthodoxy about two years ago, together with my wife, also here in the UK (Southern England) We were previously baptists.

[@cutiepets664]

Glad you found hope in Orthodox church. I would also invite you to Ethiopians Orthodox Divine liturgy. They put subtitles in English even though the it is in Geez.

[@CA-by2br]

​@@cutiepets664 arent they in schism with most eastern Orthodox Jursdictions over Chalcedon. And don't they have heterodox christology?

[@DanielJoseph10]

Without lies Islam dies

[@emmcee4899]

Lord willing, I will be made a catechumen on January 15th along with my husband, brother in law, and his fiance. Glory to God! We are all grateful for videos like this that answered questions and gave us knowledge along the way. God bless Pencils and Prayer Ropes!

[@PhantomRaider100]

I'll be Christmated on the 15th of January. Good luck on your journey!

[@emmcee4899]

Update: my family members and I are scheduled to be Baptized on Pascha! Thank you for your well wishes and prayers!

[@Abarvez]

I was born a Christian but became an Athiest then I became a Muslim for a few months….. then I felt I was missing something….. I don’t dream of Religious figures or God but I met Jesus in my dream and now my heart’s committed to Christianity I just refuse to be apart of Protestantism and I agree with Catholicism but orthodoxy has peaked my interest

[@Sic_Shawn]

I'd do it I'm trying to do it rn I just have a few problems

[@Kolby-b4c]

Amen! God loves you 💕

[@ASMRyouVEGANyet]

Thank goodness Jesus showed you the truth and you have left Islam. It is satanic.

[@Semil_enysha]

Coming to Christ doesn't mean you need to be part of a certain group. Being a follower of Jesus isn't about being in group but individual relationship. Follow the word and love the Lord. That's enough

[@DeAngeloJohnson-ee9bt]

​​aka, the church he established@@Semil_enysha

[@holyholyholy3528]

I’m 18 and was a catechumen for 2 years. I didn’t know when or where I would be baptized, since I don’t have an orthodox patriarchate near me. But have patience and trust in God. I am baptized on holy Mount Athos!

[@F00L_0F-CHRIST]

Congratulations 👏🏻

[@OrthodoxInsights]

Thanks Bojan, Milos, and the Priests who assisted in the making of this video!

[@homemetalstudios759]

i have lived a life as a beast. seeking comfort and avoiding any struggle. I have felt a call towards christ and am trying my best to not ignore it. I seem to agree most with orthodox when compared to others. I appreciate all who help me on this journey, and hopefully we can walk together. I am only 33 pages into genesis for the 1st time and my passion grows with each read.

[@МихаилТопалов-х2ш]

Forgive me for a personal question, but could I find out how your life changed and whether you accepted Orthodoxy?

[@fph2060]

I was a catholic, I have been researching orthodoxy and I have decided to become Eastern Orthodox.☦️

[@GAF2234]

Become Atheist we have science and technology everything will be possible to you

[@LibertymutuaIinsurance]

Same but I was non denominational.

[@linoshiddencats]

​@@GAF2234You dont need to be an Atheist to understand science or use technology 💀

[@reverendcoffinsotherson5807]

​@@linoshiddencatswhat a silly atheist......lol

[@S_goldman_]

​@GAF2234 most great scientists believed in God

[@orthoclipsICXC]

Praise the Lord Jesus Christ that we are here, I am Christian Orthodox myself, yet I have so much to learn. God Bless each and every one of you throughout your path as a follower of Christ.

[@Fred-Phelps]

how to learn sir?

[@orthoclipsICXC]

@@Fred-Phelps Entrust in Christ.

[@KavindhyaJayakody]

Finally found the video what I wanted. Thank you so much. 💖 ❤☦️

[@BibleIllustrated]

Always! 🤍☦️

[@jamessmith1627]

I just want to say that I love your videos! Not long ago I would have called myself an atheist, but through your videos I am now converting to Orthodoxy, so thank you! God bless.

[@bryan8645]

I watched this video after having learned about Orthodoxy for a few months and was preparing to make my first visit to a Greek Orthodox Church in my area. This video mentioned Fr John from Holy Ascension Orthodox Church in Mt Pleasant, which was actually only 10 minutes farther down the road than the church I originally intended to go to. I ended up visiting all three churches near me and ended up staying with Holy Ascension. Fr. John just catechized me yesterday. Thank you @BibleIllustrated for leading me there!

[@Ivie._aig]

I was baptised Catholic and went through all of the sacraments but I was raised in an African Pentecostal church. I have felt so out of touch with the Catholic faith and decided to find the right domination for me. Orthodox Christianity has really stood out to me and hopefully I'll be able to convert in the future, God willing. I don't have any Orthodox friends and I really wish to have someone to guide me. But seeing your videos has helped a lot!

[@iCarryBoatsAndTheLogs]

I’m with you on that brother. I actually became Muslim out of confusion, of course there’s beauty there but to me it’s just man made to oppose other religions. I will get baptised soon

[@teleportedfunk]

Hi, i'm in similar situation, i was baptised Catholic, all my family members are Catholics but the Orthodox theology and methods are more fitting for me, i feel i'm closer to Orthodoxy in my faith to the point that i want to become Orthodox Christian. But there are no Orthodox Churches in my area, just the Catholic ones.

[@poorindiansanddogsarenotal1276]

@@iCarryBoatsAndTheLogs you became muslim and wanna convert to Christianity? Islam is the only true religion

[@RetroRos101]

I can’t explain it but I started to tear up uncontrollably watching this. Perhaps it is a sign

[@Kolby-b4c]

God bless you 💕✝️

[@hazeldavis3176]

Same.

[@OrthoKarter]

Thank you this is very helpful. i was already baptized when young, forgot about orthodoxy, sinned, rediscovered it, and am now praying and repenting. i went to my first church, got bread, did prayers, and left after a few hours.

[@Hussarianbrother]

This is the most straightforward video on joining the Orthodox Church on KZbin. Thank you.

[@kiwijuice78]

after watching this i have the sudden urge to convert back to orthodoxy, wonderful job bojan you managed to get past my severe agnosticism with merely 1 video

[@ICXCNIKA8]

Bojan je legenda 💪🏼 I just got baptized into the Serbian Orthodox Church ☦️ 🇷🇸 this Palm Sunday 🎉 the best day of my life!!! Puno Blagoslova! Gospode Pomiluj 🙏🏼

[@dumbo18848]

Hello brother. I'm an Albanian of Orthodox descent but unbaptized. Considering that I'm moving to Belgrade in few months I would like to join Serbian Orthodoxy. How is it for foreigners to do so?

[@ICXCNIKA8]

@@dumbo18848 shouldn’t be a problem at all. I would suggest contacting the local priest of whatever parish you will be going in advance by email or call and tell him your situation and that you want to join the church and he will direct you.

[@hromivuk]

​@@dumbo18848when are you moving brother? How is your jurney to orthodoxy going?

[@dumbo18848]

@@hromivuk I just moved. Recently. I haven't started yet. Thank you for asking. I hope you have a good day👍🏻

[@gamerjacob1234]

I am muslim and I love orthodox christianity, the chants, the music, the practices, and how devoted they are.

[@UrLizzie]

Same

[@tgtbtu5127]

try opera as welll, very nice!

[@Bb-pw1zi]

You are not a muslim. Besides music and idols are banned for you

[@squid-ink74]

💙💙💙💙

[@stormshadowctf]

If you loved it, you'd be one.

[@travismitchell210]

Thank you for this video. I have been attending an orthodox church for about a month now and I want to take it to the next step. I'm truly grateful the orthodox church exists, I've been looking for God for so long now and it means alot to think that I have finally found him.

[@Sophie-yi2fz]

I found this channel when I was looking for infos on Orthodoxy since I thought (and still think) about converting. I have to say, your channel was one of the most helpful ones, I really admire your knowledge about the Orthodox Church (and the nice drawings too, hehe). Greetings from Germany and God bless!✝️☦️

[@BibleIllustrated]

Thank you so much, Sophie! We are so glad you found the channel so useful! And thank you for your contribution! - Bojan

[@gillianc6514]

Great video, thanks for all your efforts! The key thing is trust the process, whatever it is. There is no one formula. If like me you become Orthodox in an Orthodox country, the process may be very different. There is little in the way of understanding of adult converts and not much in place to catechise here. My journey involved many closed doors, frustration, bizarre coincidences and standing outside the church on the steps for the Liturgy for many months! It was the the best possible catechisis for me: I had to put my intellect to one side (no brilliant conversations with erudite clergy discussing the finer points of Lossky - I had dreamed of this!!), I had to learn humility and patience, I had to trust, and I had to persevere even when it looked like everyone had forgotten about me.

[@luigisantoriello3289]

Thank you brother,what a beautiful video.I am from southern Italy and during the last 4 years of my life,Orthodoxy has been always and vehemently in my mind.I know from the bottom of my heart that I will die in this Church,because I just cannot live anywhere else.I was blessed with the presence of a Romanian Orthodox parish near me:next Sunday,I will assist my first Divine Liturgy and then inform the priest about my mature decision.

[@BibleIllustrated]

So happy to hear, Luigi!

[@luigisantoriello3289]

@@BibleIllustrated Thank you,God bless💚

[@pepsivanilla93]

What a channel I've stumbled upon, thanks so much for all your hard work. I've been in need of a church for years but could never bring myself to find a protestant one that wasn't so "western". Found Orthodoxy through Ivan Provorov, the NHL player taking a stand for his faith recently, and now I've contacted some parishes and will attend my first liturgy on the 5th. I've been learning so much and I feel my decision has been made already in my heart but I'm eager to attend and experience it for myself.

[@joylarson9040]

Thanks!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Thank you so much, Joy! :-)

[@YooTuba]

I'm solidly Roman Catholic and will not be converting, but wanted to tell you this video is really well done and it helped me to learn more about your Orthodox Church. Good job!

[@ΆγιοςΙερώνυμος-χ2γ]

What’s holding you back from converting?

[@boku5192]

@@ΆγιοςΙερώνυμος-χ2γ Maybe allready being part of holy apostholic Catholic Church.

[@ΆγιοςΙερώνυμος-χ2γ]

@@boku5192 you do realise that that would be the Orthodox Church lol.

[@boku5192]

@@ΆγιοςΙερώνυμος-χ2γ you do realise that that would be the Catholic Church lol ;)

[@ΆγιοςΙερώνυμος-χ2γ]

@@boku5192 if you had any knowledge about Orthodoxy, you would know that the Orthodox Church is the Catholic Church. Our official name is the Orthodox Catholic Church! Lol

[@allisonroorda7937]

This is wonderful. I have been a catechumen for a year and will be baptized and christmated on Lazarus Saturday. I am so glad you gave a shout out to Patristix!

[@Kingdom-seeker]

Thank you so much for making this video, you have no idea how far I believe it will bring me, god bless you and everyone who participated in the making of it I could not be more grateful!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Glad you found it so useful! 😄

[@FaithEncouragedTV]

What a wonderful gift! A+ guys. Thank you!

[@trisagiongames]

Beautiful work, thank you for all that you do!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Thank you very much!

[@trueindian3073]

​@@BibleIllustrated Become a Jesus follower and not a Christianity follower, a Jesus follower cannot be a Christianity follower... Christianity is nothing but a political agenda , they bribe to convert to make follow Jesus, they destroy a lands culture, they destroy a civilization... And Jesus never asked to bribe people.... Following Jesus is truth and following Christianity is evil

[@SimpleAmadeus]

"Don't pick your godparent lightly, like my godchildren did." I laughed out loud on that one.

[@1Marr1]

I recently began attending an Orthodox Church in NC and found this channel when looking for information. I was extremely surprised to see Bluff City mentioned, because it’s such a small town. My mother’s side of the family are from/live there, so learning that Orthodoxy reaches even there is amazing. I look forward to learning more and will definitely have to share this with my family. God Bless!

[@alexanderbrown2717]

1 Corinthians 15 KJV 1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: Romans 3 KJV 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 2 Peter 2 KJV 1 But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. Acts 20 KJV 28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

[@alenahawke475]

I hope to be attending an Orthodox Church soon. St. Herman of Alaska in Port Townsend WA. It's about a 90 minute drive, but I'm excited! 🙏✝️❤️

[@phoenixshadow6633]

13:28 Speaking as a Catholic, I do like the cameo from St. John Vianney, the Priest of Ars.

[@BibleIllustrated]

He is my favorite Catholic saint. I've read a huge book based on his canonisation process two times already, and will many times more.

[@Mr.Sam321]

As a convert it is so hard to find proper guidance or english services even in a big city like london

[@BibleIllustrated]

Hope the vid clarifies it at least a little bit :)

[@Eringobragh1861]

Same here

[@craeddock]

Houston Texas has quite a few. Wanna move? 😁

[@HappyBird44]

In London our Russian Orthodox Church has services in a mix of English and Russian. But there are also local parish services (still in London) which are exclusively in English. We also run a regular Catechism Course for those seeking more information.

[@Karltheknight]

Have you ever considered Western Rite Orthodoxy? They have a few parishes in England but they tend to be hidden however the services would be guaranteed to be in English.

[@OctaviaJemima]

I was raised in a family from the church of England but my father is Orthodox Christian and his father, my grandfather is a priest. I don't consider myself belonging to any particular faction of Christianity but I'd still like to explore the orthodox church the other side of my family is so heavily faithful to.

[@teawithmarmalade]

Thank you for this wonderful video! My fiancé and I were chrismated almost one year ago. It’s amazing how quickly one year passes by!

[@MrownXXV]

Appreciate your work bojan. Your videos was the first catalyst for me to learn about and then convert to Orthodoxy.

[@ejcraig]

This was a fantastic video. The illustrations and small humorous details made me chuckle. I’m not Orthodox *yet* but I’m saving this video for if I end up going that direction. God bless you guys!

[@riapresley5446]

Loved this presentation..the simplicity but amazingly addressing some very important main points...loved the snippet on...if the Priest isn't guiding or doesn't seem interested.....seems to be very common....and was my experience...I did think I had to suffer thru it...crying alot....it was all miraculous....and wonderful....loved also when you mentioned to savor( not your exact words) this time....Yes! Every part....and every phase!!! So awesome

[@cpucilowski]

Timely yes!!! Painful, definitely!!! As I contemplate my relationship with my boyfriend who is Catholic, but acts more like a Protestant. My heart is shattered as my priest is guiding me to choose the church. I know I did it to myself, but the pain is overwhelming! Lord forgive me! This video was excellent!!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Glad you liked it, Carmen! May the Lord comfort you and guide you!

[@dougy6237]

How to Become an Orthodox Christian: break from the Catholic Church. I humbly recommend you refer to the Catholic Answers website, as it will be of imeasurable assistance to you and your boyfriend. Peace be with your spirit.

[@11bsavage64]

@@dougy6237How to leave Orthodox and become Catholic, read history and ask questions. Especially about baptism.

[@BoldFollower]

I'm not Orthodox, but have Greek Orthodox roots. I love orthodoxy-- and your videos are always so well made and well done. I'm blessed by your ministry, thanks for all God does through you!!

[@BoldFollower]

@Ameretat010 hey friend, thanks for reaching out. you’d probably label me as a Charismatic Protestant with ecumenical bends. I agree with the foundational doctrine and many theological roots- but when it comes to a few other doctrine and application of some interpretations- I just can’t in good faith confess I believe them or feel they are beneficial and Biblical to subscribe to.

[@BoldFollower]

@Ameretat010 I am VERY conservative as far as stances which most would consider political, and very strict on the Gospel and it’s necessity for salvation- nicene creed and other foundational matter - however, unlike many Protestants I believe the gifts have not stopped and are for today and am not complete adverse to traditional (Orthodox) concepts of scripture just applications (if that makes sense). Most Protestants wouldn’t touch a book like Tobit, but I enjoy reading books not canonized in the 66, however I do not regard them as God-breathed and inerrant. I honor and appreciate many saints, sacraments, stories and traditions but do not see them all as authoritative or beneficial. Though some I do feel are actually harmful, most I believe are simply superfluous. I appreciate your inquiry but I’d rather not get into the weeds. I went on a spiritual journey including speaking to many orthodox priests and even visiting the Vatican. My last job was in ministry and I worked with all mainstream denominations except the most progressive ones. I’d have similar arguments for Coptic, Catholic, Messianic and even various Protestant denominations - I love God and love His church. It’s funny we’re talking now because my last sermon clip was on unity. I believe unity does not mean uniformity- and that guides a lot of how I walk with the Lord. I see Orthodoxy’s beauty and glean much from it, but wouldn’t consider myself as one and I don’t think they would see me as one either. But I’d hope you’d see me as a brother in Christ regardless. I hope you have a blessed day!

[@BoldFollower]

@Ameretat010 oh I’m sorry. Charismatic is a term usually used to explain Christian who move in the gifts of the Spirit today. Usually characterized by but not limited to controversial gifts like healing, tongues, and various miracles. Charismatics can be Orthodox, Catholic, or other denominations- it’s not limited to Protestantism and there is a BROAD spectrum of how it appears. I’ve been to charismatic Catholic services which feel exactly the same as traditional ones and services that you have to jump over the people rolling on the floor lol Christ’s body is very diverse for sure

[@BoldFollower]

@Ameretat010 Yes, but I feel like that is just one group who gathers like that. Most do majority of things the same except maybe they pray/worship differently. The charismatic mass was essentially exactly the same, but in the home groups they laid hands on the sick while others spoke in tongues quietly on the side (not disrupting). I also know many Pentecostal churches have a rap to be controlling. Many Charismatic churches are less influential on their people, not more. But to answer your question simply, yes, Pentecostal churches are one type.

[@BoldFollower]

@Ameretat010 I believe you approach the gifts the same. Let’s use Hospitality as an example. That’s a gift Paul talks about. In the same way you risk coming across creepy if you invite someone over, risk burning food if you cook for someone or maybe risk offending someone by paying for their ticket/holding their jacket… just because you could use the gift of hospitality wrong would you take that fear and then never attempt to be hospitable? Of course not. You’d do your best with God’s guidance and common sense to be as hospitable as you can be- and look for opportunities to practice and love on others with that gift. You’re gonna get it wrong, but take correction and keep trying. Read the word and learn and grow and get better at it. God says faith pleases Him and we’re not to bury His talents. Remember, they are HIS gifts to the body as a whole, so we should be exercising them. It’s the same with the controversial gifts. The issue is not trying the gift, the issue is not being open to correction. The issue is not keeping close to Biblical teaching. Jesus says you will know HIS voice, well then that means there are OTHER voices… but when He said that I don’t think it’s limited to hearing His voice in just controversial gift-operation. I believe it’s for everything. I am not sure if I answered correctly, but I hope that helps. I also can’t speak for every charismatic. So I’m not about to defend specific examples I don’t personally know.

[@VivaCristoRey77]

Coming from a non denominational background this is just all so fascinating to me and has opened my eyes to the truth of orthodox Christianity. I'm interested in converting so any extra notes or tips would be very helpful, god bless.

[@realwickedbrew]

Thank you for this video. I have only started attending an Orthodox mission, some 45 miles away from my home, in the past 2 months, but I met the bishop today and feel truly called into the faith.

[@AngeloCPozo]

I went to the church just to visit and felt really rejected. No one greeted me or said anything. The bishop even told me not to approach when everyone stood up during the service, though I’m not sure what that part is called. It was ironic because the theme of the sermon that Sunday was about welcoming strangers, and I was exactly that-a stranger. A verse that comes to mind is Hebrews 13:2, which says, 'Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.' I wasn’t going with bad intentions, even though I wasn’t interested in becoming Orthodox; I just wanted to learn about the church. There was a fat man singing and staring at my brother and me in a very rude way. I hope this never happens to someone who genuinely needs faith and that they are more welcoming. I would have actually liked if they had invited me to something. Even when I visited a Buddhist temple, they gave me a pineapple 🥲.

[@CVilla49]

No joke, Lord of the Rings is on in the background as I watch this video. As soon as the Balrog was mentioned at 10:58 the EXACT scene played on the TV in front of me. When Gandalf turns to fight the Balrog in the mines of Moria. That being said, thank you for the informative video. Like many Protestants who have hit a wall with their current denomination I too am seeking to join the Orthodox Church. I can no longer lie to myself after opening my heart and learning so much about the Orthodox Church. Please pray for me as I take these first steps towards conversion.

[@raritica8409]

I want to start the journey.

[@BibleIllustrated]

Please do! You won't regret it!

[@bgdjovan]

Such a great introduction. I can't believe how helpful this was to me. Thanks a lot!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Glad you found it useful!

[@CT--is3ji]

Your art style has been getting better! I like it a lot

[@sebastianjohannesen8863]

i love how you implemented Saint Sebastian. i've had a big fascination of his life because we share the same name

[@dianefrangie1291]

I love this video. I converted 50 years ago, and feel the process of being Orthodox is unending as long as learning is possible. Your video is uplifting and full of love. God keep you and bless your efforts.

[@GladioUmbra]

I am a new catechumen, a former minister. This video was very helpful. Please pray for my journey.

[@empousa8680]

I am a greek orthodox since I was baptized, always loved my faith and went to church always by my own will (no grandma pressure ever made me go if I didn't want to). For almost a year I kinda lost my faith because I was too tired to go to church every Sunday. My faith was reignited by odd things. By seeing a lot more people turning away from Christianity and into Paganism (hellenic and norse) I felt compelled to worship God even morre, and from a black metal album by the band Batushka. Thank you for this video and channel.

[@BibleIllustrated]

Glad you liked it!

[@leonardopinheiro4951]

I am from an greek orthodox church in Brazil, I was going to the liturgy with my dad until he suffers an accident, which is now having surgery and operations on his leg. Greetings from Brazil ☦

[@scummymummy2548]

My friend Samuel is orthodox and he is teaching me how to have faith and how to become orthodox christisn

[@taylormoore564]

I'm on phase 2. Ironically, attending Bluff City this Sunday and I am super NERVOUS!! As a Baptist trying to convert. Thankful I found this video when I did.

[@happy_lobsterv1]

My parish only has one priest for like 200 people, we’re working on expanding but it will be very difficult and we have a large catechumen community and it makes it hard on our priest to get to every one of us. God bless Fr. Paul and let us pray for him

[@jordyshmurda2123]

Im a methodist Christian, my father is a pastor, I grew up in Christianity and was baptised. Ive always felt like there was more and wasnt on the true path, im planning on attending my local Orthodox Church this Sunday, I'm super nervous after attending a baptist church for years but i look forward to see where this will take me

[@albertpilkington9566]

I was Methodist as well and made the switch to Orthodoxy worth it! You be happy you did. There will be a learning curve though it wasn’t easy but so worth it.

[@MaximusAugustusOrthodox]

Great video! God bless you all and your loved ones 🙏❤️

[@karbofos23]

I went to my local orthodox church for the first time today i will have to ask about the catachumen process. Thank you for the info

[@SoniaSephia]

Thank you for such a detailed and lovely illustrated video!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Always!

[@AndrewEvenstar]

thanks so much for this. I went to a service at Saint Sava in Belgrade on 04.06.2023. it was beautiful . they had a ceremony of the Saint and blessings where kids or women were making crowns or necklaces out of leaves. I was born in the west and am learning more about Orthodox ☦ ways.

[@2CatsDad]

I had the privilege of visiting Christ the Savior Orthodox Church for their inaugural St. Nicholas Festival. Fr. Stephen Mathewes and all the members there were kind and welcoming. I also got the chance to talk to his mother, Frederica Mathewes-Green.

[@sheilaoneil18]

I have so many questions to ask, even after this excellent explanation, as I respond to a strong awareness of being called to Orthodoxy Christianity. I think it would be coming back home for me. After a lifetime of Catholicism and a very big change of denomination, then serious dissatisfaction with my chosen Evangelicalism of late, along with distress and not completely understanding why I am feeling such disturbance, quite suddenly, the answer seems to be percolating in my mind and heart and soul. So, thank you for this video and I shall continue to seek and ask the Lord to guide me how to proceed. The video, although cartoon-like and something I was inclined to avoid because of that, kept and held my interest. The approach and content is just what I need. I particularly like the way four characters are used to illustrate the actual circumstances of individual experience. Thank you again and God bless you.

[@voievod9260]

Hi, Im just a simple Orthodox christian. Not a priest, not a theologian. But i have a bit of knowledge of my faith (not to brag), a catechisis book and a close bond with my spiritual father. If you want, I can help you with your questions and the ones i don't know I can ask my spiritual father. If you want we can speak in private.

[@el_1019]

Lord Jesus in Heaven, have Mercy on me, Thy catechumen! ☦🙏❤

[@AtomPon]

I am nervous and anxious just thinking of attending an orthodox church, hopefully It will go well I pray to walk in the grace of god

[@TradSerb]

7:16 That’s my church on the right St. Sava

[@ciprianpeter7758]

I shed tears of joy upon seeing the comment section, you go guys!!!

[@Kc40k]

Thank you for discussing the baptism/chrismation controversy. It has been on my mind and hearing it talked about is helpful. Also, thank for your videos! They were of great help to my wife and I. We will be made catechumens soon!

[@Lecyathan33]

Love the nod to Patristix. Has been such a helpful channel to my wife and I.

[@左アリ]

Just found your beautiful channel. Thank you for your work, brothers! ❤️

[@venom7774]

As a raised Catholic and born again Christian of the strict southern Baptist faith I applaud you on this incredible explanation of the true faith. My journey begins ❤🙏🏻

[@lathonland]

Thank you so much for this video it came just at the write time!!

[@acekoala457]

I dove in at phase 2. I was going to be Baptised as Patrick but I ended up having my Baptism on the Repose of St. Raphael of Brooklyn. He is very important in American Orthodoxy

[@TheMhouk2]

This is perfect. God bless you Bojan

[@1988casco]

I am a Protestant Christian who has no intention of converting to Orthodoxy, but I still want to thank you for this informative video. I really appreciate the priest at the end reminding believers without a church that Christ is the one who sustains us and makes us persevere! God bless!

[@thomaswayneward]

Be sure to not study Roman Catholicism or the Orthodox Church history. You might be like me and have your eyes opened to what full Christianity is.

[@sonicgeeksquad4g106]

@@thomaswayneward Which one did you convert to?

[@zzzaaayyynnn]

Great video. I have been working with an Orthodox priest in the church where I go in Tirana AL about becoming a catechumenate.

[@BibleIllustrated]

IMPORTANT NOTE: In the video description we've assembled some basicmost convert resources. If you have any that you'd like us to add, leave it in the comments! If you want to attend Orthodox catechism online, specially tailored to people who have no Orthodox church nearby, please go to: patristicnectar.org/globalcatechism

[@jonnyqwst]

Terrific video. Comprehensive and sincere.

[@BibleIllustrated]

Thank you so much!

[@blindside58]

I was raised Baptist. I am seriously considering becoming Orthodox. I visited a local Orthodox Church. The father-man (im getting used to not saying “preacher-man”) spoke to me about orthodoxy and gave me an Icon of Mary holding Jesus. I am equally fascinated and scared by it, I keep it in a corner. In the morning I look at it, but I feel so confused. Any tips on helping a Protestant be comfortable with Mary veneration? because like me, and other American Protestants, we are taught Mary should be seen as no better or worse than John the Baptist, or Moses. How do i overcome?

[@boku5192]

My responce abou Marry. Sorry about bad english and that it got this long :-D Hi I'm Catholic, so as a fellow member of the "Marry worshipper gang" I think it is my responsibility to try and help, although u on the wrong side of fence :P We and orthodox DO NOT worship her or any other saint. This misunderstanding is not helped by the fact that prayer which in it's proper meaning is spiritual conversation is sadly equated in a protestant community like this "to pray" = "to worshipp". But, to us prayer to God means speaking to God, prayer to saints means speaking to saints..(why do you ask? Because in our prayer to Blessed Marry or any other saint we ask them to pray for us since they are way holier than us and are united with God. That's what being saint means to us basicaly someone who's in heaven). And here lies another problem since many protestants argue that dead people are dead and that they will rise only at the end of days so any attemt to speak with them are attempts at necromancy . On the contrary we know that those who die go straight to heaven purgatory or hell. So to us those in heaven are veru much allive, eternaly united with our Lord. So if we need someone to pray for us we ask them too. Because we consider them the part of living church(the most holy one since they're in heaven). And Mary? Well. She is the holiest of them all. Mother of God. New arc of covennant, sinless vessel to carry sinless son of God to life on this earth... (unsure if orthodox believe the last part or not). What's important is that, Jesus loves his mother and will hear her prayers. (Remember the wedding in Cana? Only reason Jesus changed his mind and did any mirracle was because of a stubborn plea of his Mother, and her endless trust in him. Scripture tells us to pray for one another. Yet We don't even know how to pray, none of us has faith to move a mountain. Best we can do is to try prayer inspite of our imperfection and to call those who have it to come to our help so we aren't alone in it. BTW. Blessed virgin Marry is also our mum. Tradition tells us Jesus gave her not only to John but also to us the entire Church. Isn't it cool to have a Mother in heaven? So next time the Devil is near call to our Father the Son and the holy spirit, but make sure your'e not the only one standing before him, rather than that, make sure the fellowship of saints and choirs of angels are standing behind you. Anyway, that's about it, it's not really complicated concept, may God guide you on you journey :)

[@voievod9260]

@@boku5192 he is asking for an Orthodox answer and you say: you are on the wrong side of the fence. Catholic arrogance. We don't worship Mary but she is placed higher than all the saints in veneration. We ask her to intercede for us before God as her prayers are "special" and powerful and Jesus listens to her.

[@voievod9260]

There is no such thing as purgatory its catholic heresy

[@HomoEucharistica]

I'm a Lutheran but I'm studying currently the Orthodox view on this all... First thing that comes to mind is the role of motherhood. You know, one of the 10 commandments is to honor one's father and mother. Because Mary (or Maryam) is Jesus' mother, Jesus honors and obeys (and loves) her as her son. Everything what Jesus is as a human, it was gotten from Mary... And generally in ancient Middle East, the mother of the king always received much respect and she was able to advise her son and ask him to do something. And technically, as the mother of Jesus Mary is also the mother of the church... Christians abide in Jesus and Jesus calls us His brothers. This relationship continues even in Heaven (according to Holy Tradition) where Mary is at the right hand of Jesus, and John the Baptist at the left hand of Jesus. There Mary is praying for us, asking her son to help us as she did in the wedding of Cana. When it comes to comparison between Virgin Mary and John the Baptist, it is understable why people think like that. After all, there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist (Matt. 11:11)... Orthodox Christians venerate him as well, like they venerate all saints of God - not because of themselves but because of Jesus Christ. In many ways, Mary was like John; she had the sinful nature of humanity like all humans except Jesus. However, "He who is mighty has done great things" to Mary (Luke 1:49). John the Baptist, as a baby in the womb, leaped when Mary arrived to Elizabeth because Mary is the mother of the Lord. By being willing to obey God's will, Mary became the most important person. Through her, God came in flesh, and therefore salvation came to the world through her. Holy Spirit was upon her, and the Son lived in her womb... it can be said that during her pregnancy, Mary was like the most holy place in the temple of Jerusalem because the presence of God was in her. It's hard to think why this wouldn't have affected her, like we Protestants think. The place where the Lord appeared to Moses became holy ground, and the face of Moses shone every time when he just met God, the Sabbath day became holy because God gave to it His own rest, the temple was holy because God's presence was upon it etc. Now, God himself lived and grew inside of Mary - how does this not make Mary hallowed or something? Thanks to Mary, we have salvation, joy, peace, healing, comfort, liberation from all evil forces etc. It is God who gives this all, but it was Mary through whom this all came to the world. Therefore, we shouldn't be afraid to call Virgin Mary blessed (Luke 1:48) and venerate her. It's not her own holiness or anything, but God's holiness in her, those great things God did to her.

[@alex99891]

As someone who has been interested in orthodoxy for the past year and a half I’m finally trying to go to a orthodox church but it’s very hard to acquire transport to get there sometimes this video helped a lot

[@tuck-brainwks-eutent-hidva1098]

Many thanks for this video, B & M -- love you guys! Know that I have left the link to this dozens of times as I encounter inquirers online. You guys are both great educators & great ambassadors! Glory to God! 🙏🕯️☦️

[@philmar4114]

greetings from Greece my orthodox brothers!

[@BibleIllustrated]

Hello!

[@voievod9260]

Greetings from Romania Orthodox brother !

[@thenewguy3534]

I imagine few people caught that reference to "The Shadow." I however caught that reference, very good very nice. Also, very informative and helpful video. Thank you both, God bless.

[@Mydrich]

Хвала вам Срби што чувате православље, Руси са вама

[@Jai_no102]

I am so scared to go to my best friends church because it’s scary and foreign, but this made me feel better. Thank you

[@imo6927]

Great content!

[@MTech07]

Thank you so much for this video. I decided that I wanted to convert but I know nothing about Christianism apart from what I’ve read that is not related to practices. This really helped me.

[@Conifer-sc6jg]

Miloš and Bojan, I have recently made the decision to become Orthodox, and I just wanted to say your channel has been instrumental in introducing me to the Church. Thank you for your top notch and carefully crafted content! This video in particular was most helpful. I will be visiting a Coptic Divine Liturgy tomorrow :-)

[@TheMhouk2]

had a good chuckle at the photos of the mixed vestment clergy.

[@PeterKramden]

As an American, I have to say that despite its shortcomings the KJV is culturally iconic.