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An Introduction to Eastern Christianity

From venerating icons and lighting candles, to singing without instruments and standing throughout the liturgy, the initial experience of Eastern Christian worship can be somewhat disorienting for those more familiar with Western Christian traditions. If you are interested in learning about Eastern Christian worship and spirituality, check out the recordings of the five-week series presented by our Adult Education team:

Participation in the liturgy and the services of the Church has always been the most important way to grow in Faith and in Spirit. Everything the Church teaches flows from the Eucharist and the prayers and petitions that surround it. This is where the mind of Christ, the testimony of the Holy Spirit, and the teachings of the Holy Apostles and Fathers are brought out in their fullness.

Formal study and discussion expands understanding and appreciation. Under the auspices of our St. Gregory the Theologian Catechetical School, we offer a number of on-going opportunities for adult education:

    1. A self-study program based on short readings is always available for those wanting to know more about the Melkite Greek-Catholic Church and our life in Christ. Discussion groups designed to complement the self-study are available once or twice each year.
    2. A Sunday morning study group meets before Liturgy (9:30 to 10:30 a.m.) on select Sundays during the school year.
    3. Sunday afternoon lectures and interactive studies are offered throughout the year after coffee hour (12:30-1:30 p.m.).
    4. Four- to six-week themed study groups are offered during one or more of the Church’s fasting seasons, especially during Lent.
    5. Individual sessions are available as needed for anyone planning to be married in the Church and for those seeking baptism and/or formal affiliation with the Melkite Greek-Catholic Church.
    6. Our church bookstore is open every Sunday during the school year and after many other services.
    7. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the online offerings of the Institute of Catholic Culture, headed by Fr. Hezekias Carnazzo. More information and archived presentations are available at the Institute of Catholic Culture. The team also recommends +Fr. Thomas Hopko's series The Orthodox Faith.