Atlanta Metropolis Introduces New 15-Lesson Orthodox Catechism

ATLANTA — Metr. Sevastianos of Atlanta has introduced a new 15-lesson catechetical program intended to provide a comprehensive and consistent resource for clergy, catechists, catechumens, and inquirers throughout the Metropolis.

Titled "The Catechism: An Introduction to the Orthodox Faith in Fifteen Lessons," the program covers subjects ranging from the question “What is Truth?” and salvation history to Christology, ecclesiology, Holy Tradition, the Divine Liturgy, prayer, the Theotokos and the Saints, the Holy Mysteries, and practical aspects of Orthodox life. The material includes detailed lesson plans, discussion opportunities, scriptural and patristic references, suggested readings, anticipated questions, and guidance for both teachers and catechumens.

Metr. Sevastianos emphasized that completing the curriculum should not itself determine when a person is ready to enter the Orthodox Church. He said the catechumenate should ordinarily last at least six months and may extend to a year or longer, depending on an individual’s circumstances, spiritual growth, and participation in parish life. In extraordinary cases involving a shorter period, priests must first receive his blessing.

The program was developed through a collaborative effort involving several clergy and lay contributors, with Fr. Christos Mars serving as chairman of the committee. Metr. Sevastianos said the first edition may continue to be refined through feedback from clergy and catechists using it in parish life.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Ancient Faith Publishing released a new Orthodox catechism by Archpriest Pavel Souček.