Part 9 of 9 · 2 min read

Keep learning

In short This site is only a starting point. These are the books and resources people most often recommend next, plus a glossary for the jargon.

Books

Welcome to the Orthodox Church · Frederica Mathewes-Green

A warm, easy tour from someone who converted as an adult. A good first read.
The Orthodox Way · Kallistos Ware

Short and thoughtful: what Orthodox believe about God, prayer and the spiritual life.
The Orthodox Church · Timothy (Kallistos) Ware

The classic overview of history and belief. More of a reference book.
Thirsting for God in a Land of Shallow Wells · Matthew Gallatin

A former evangelical pastor explains what changed his mind. Very relevant if you grew up Protestant.
For the Life of the World · Alexander Schmemann

A short classic on why worship and the sacraments matter to everyday life.

Ancient Faith: podcasts and talks on every topic, including plenty for enquirers.
The Orthodox Faith: a clear online guide to doctrine and worship.
Serbian Orthodox Church: the official site (mostly in Serbian).

Antidoron: Blessed bread given out at the end of the Liturgy. Serbs call it nafora.
Catechumen: Someone formally preparing to join the Church.
Chrismation: Anointing with holy oil, the gift of the Holy Spirit. It’s how most people are received.
Divine Liturgy: The main Sunday service, with Communion.
Icon: An image of Christ, Mary or a saint, used in prayer.
Iconostasis: The wall of icons in front of the altar.
Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Kum / kuma: Godparent or sponsor (Serbian).
Mysteries: The Orthodox word for sacraments, such as Communion, baptism and confession.
Pascha: Easter. From the Hebrew word for Passover.
Slava: A Serbian family’s yearly feast for its patron saint.
Theosis: Growing into union with God by his grace. The goal of the Christian life.
Theotokos: “God-bearer”: Mary, the Mother of God.
Vespers: The evening service, often on Saturday night.