The Orthodox Church doesn’t have a formal catechism, per se. There is no single body of work that outlines all of the specifics of its faith and practice. This isn't to say there isn't much to read, much to learn, and much to encounter. The opposite is true. The period of the catechumenate typically lasts one year at a minimum so you may experience a full liturgical cycle of holy days, the lives of Saints, as well as feasting and fasting periods.
We absorb the faith through worship and prayer. There's no such thing as virtual Orthodoxy. Here are the expectations:
At this parish, you’re required to read a series of books prior to being received into the church. The books can be purchased from any Orthodox Publisher, or through Amazon, etc.
As an aid to help you map out your time, some of the books should be completed before Nativity (in the fall) and the others before Pascha (in the spring). We may have some of the titles in our lending library.
Before the Feast of the Nativity
Before Holy Pascha
Suggested Reading
We augment the catechetical instruction with online lectures by well-known Orthodox speakers. The first one on the list is required of every catechumen.
There’s a lot of stuff out there on the internet. Not all of it is profitable. Before viewing anything on YouTube, obtain the blessing of the priest and/or catechist. For now, stick with Patristic Nectar and Ancient Faith Radio. Pick any series listed below. More than one is always acceptable.
Catechumens are required to complete a few forms and return them to the priest prior to being received into the church. The forms must be completed and returned to the priest at least one (1) month prior to Holy Pascha, but some sooner than others.
If you’ve been baptized in a previous confession, you must provide a copy of the baptismal certificate. It’s a requirement of the Metropolitan Archbishop. If the document can’t be found, you must be received through Holy Baptism.
If you are registered on the membership role of another religious body, upon being received as a catechumen you must contact them and ask to be removed from the membership roster. In addition, here are other requirements: