Orthodoxy 101
A basic introduction to the Orthodox Church
A ten-session introduction to the Orthodox Church, following Fr. Michael Shanbour’s Know the Faith. The goal is to "know the Faith" as the Church has received and lived it from the Apostles — grounded in Scripture, the Church Fathers, and the whole life of the Church — so that we can think, live, and worship with the mind of Christ.
Based on Know the Faith by Fr. Michael Shanbour.
Session 1 (the introduction) meets Saturday, May 9, 2026, 4:50–5:50 PM. Every session after that meets on Saturdays, 4:30–5:50 PM, beginning May 23 (no class on May 16).
Session 1Saturday, May 94:50 – 5:50 PM
Pre-Course Introduction
Welcome and course overview, the purpose of the class, preliminary ideas about the Church as the mystical Body of Christ where salvation happens, and practical details, expectations, and Q&A.
Session 2Saturday, May 234:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapter 1 — The Church
What the Orthodox Church is (and is not), grounded in Scripture and the Fathers.
Session 3Saturday, May 304:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapter 2 — Grace
The nature of God’s grace and how it works in the Orthodox understanding.
Session 4Saturday, June 64:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapters 3 & 4 — Salvation and Justification by Faith
The Orthodox view of salvation (theosis / healing / union with God) and how justification by faith fits within the larger biblical and patristic picture.
Session 5Saturday, June 134:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapter 5 — Tradition & Scripture
The relationship between Holy Tradition and Holy Scripture in the life of the Church.
Session 6Saturday, June 204:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapter 6 — The Eucharist & Liturgical Worship
The central place of the Divine Liturgy and the Eucharist in Orthodox faith and life.
Session 7Saturday, June 274:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapters 7 & 8 — Priesthood; Confession & Repentance
Ordination and the sacramental priesthood, and the mystery of Confession and Repentance.
Session 8Saturday, July 4
No class
Session 9Saturday, July 114:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapters 9 & 10 — Icons & the Intercession of the Saints
The theology and practice of holy icons and right worship, and why and how the saints intercede for us and how we honor them.
Session 10Saturday, July 184:30 – 5:50 PM
Chapter 11 — Veneration of the Virgin Mary
The place of the Theotokos (Mother of God) in Orthodox faith and piety. Final session: review, Q&A, and next steps for those preparing for baptism or chrismation, or for continued study.