Why Choose the Orthodox Church

Why choose the Orthodox Christian Church over other denominations

Inquirers into Orthodoxy often ask the why choose Orthodoxy over other denominations.
This is a deeply personal question the individual must contemplate as they seek the “the right church”. There are different motives to consider and is suggested to seek out someone well-rooted in their Orthodox faith to explain the joys of the Orthodox Church.

For many. choosing the Orthodox Christian Church over other denominations often comes down to its deep historical roots, theological consistency, and unique traditions.

Here are some key reasons why people are drawn to Orthodoxy:

  1. Historical Continuity – The Orthodox Church traces its origins directly to the early Christian Church, maintaining traditions and teachings that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. There are also many elements from the Old Testament which are present, such as the reading of Psalms in every service and the incorporation of prayers, for example: “God be gracious unto us and bless us…”, which as adapted from the Prayer of Aaron, Numbers 6:24-26.

  2. Apostolic Succession – Unlike Protestant denominations, Orthodoxy emphasizes an unbroken line of bishops going back to the apostles, ensuring doctrinal consistency.
    There is an actual pedigree or provenance in this line of succession that binds the Orthodox Church to Apostles and their immediate disciples.

  3. Sacramental Life – The Orthodox Church places great importance on the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, which is believed to be the literal body and blood of Christ; and Baptism, which is seen as the entry into the Church.

  4. Communion of Saints – Orthodox Christians believe in the intercession of saints, seeing them as active participants in the faith rather than distant historical figures.
    Examples of this can be found the Book of Maccabees, found in the Septuagint version of the Old Testament.

  5. Theosis (Union with God) – Salvation in Orthodoxy is not just about faith but also about striving for holiness and becoming more like God through a lifelong spiritual journey.
    In simpler terms, this is a real experience of acquiring the Holy Spirit. The Orthodox Church recognizes this as the goal for mankind and the Church offers the tools and clearest path.
    Our salvation is nothing less than God’s transforming us into Himself. This claim can be an obstacle for many. And yet it is the consistent teaching of the Church, starting with St. Peter (cf. 2 Peter 1:4) and St. Paul (cf. Galatians 4:4-7) and repeated in the writings of many Saints. As Saint Athanasius put it, “God became man so that man could become like Him”. This is His true love, this is His plan to restore mankind into what it always was meant to be.