A Guided Journey to converting to the Ancient Orthodox Christian Faith

Every year, men and women across Arizona discover the Orthodox Church while searching for the historic Christian faith. Some come from Protestant traditions seeking the roots of Christianity. Others come from Roman Catholicism or no religious background at all. Whatever their journey, becoming Orthodox is not simply joining a church—it is entering into a way of life that has been faithfully preserved since the time of the Apostles.

Where can I get information on converting to Orthodoxy

One of the most comprehensive resources for inquirers in the Southwest is ArizonaOrthodox.com. Developed by All Saints of North America Orthodox Church (ASONA) in the West Phoenix Valley, the website offers an extensive collection of materials for those exploring Orthodoxy, including visitor guides, articles, live-streams, Bible studies, online catechism classes, recommended reading, and practical guidance for every stage of the journey. The parish also provides a clearly structured catechumen process that combines worship, theological instruction, spiritual formation, and active participation in parish life.

At the heart of this ministry is Archpriest John A. Peck, rector of All Saints of North America. With decades of experience in Orthodox ministry, theological education, preaching, and catechesis, Fr. John has become a trusted guide for countless converts throughout Arizona and beyond. Before founding ASONA, he taught biblical studies and liturgics, developed pioneering Orthodox media ministries, authored instructional books, and established online resources to help people discern and embrace the Orthodox faith.

What do I need to learn if I am converting to Orthodoxy?

One distinctive feature of ASONA’s ministry is its comprehensive catechism program. Rather than focusing only on information, the parish emphasizes formation—learning to pray, worship, fast, read Scripture, and live as an Orthodox Christian. In addition to in-person instruction, ASONA offers a rotating series of twenty online catechism lessons that are available free to parish inquirers and are used by clergy and parishes in many locations.

The parish itself reflects the growing face of American Orthodoxy. Serving the West Phoenix Valley—including Sun City, Surprise, Peoria, Glendale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park, Avondale, and Buckeye—All Saints of North America celebrates its services primarily in English and welcomes visitors from every background. Whether someone has been studying Orthodoxy for years or is attending their very first Divine Liturgy, they will find a parish committed to hospitality, careful teaching, and authentic Orthodox worship.

For anyone considering converting to Orthodoxy in Arizona, the journey begins simply: visit a parish, attend the Divine Liturgy, ask questions, and begin learning. Through the resources available at and the experienced pastoral leadership of Archpriest John A. Peck and the clergy of All Saints of North America, inquirers have access to one of the most complete and accessible Orthodox catechetical ministries in the region. Converting to Orthodoxy is not a decision made overnight—it is a lifelong pilgrimage into the fullness of the Christian faith, undertaken with the guidance of the Church and the support of a faithful parish community.

I’d like to start converting to Orthodoxy– what should I do?

Firstly, give thanks to God for His grace, love and abundant mercy! First, read How to Become an Orthodox Christian. You can also contact us, and we will respond to you as soon as we can – usually within 24 hours. From there, we will help you make the personal connections to grow in your faith, and meet flesh and blood Orthodox Christians who can greet you, welcome you, and accompany you on this journey. It’s a beautiful thing!

My spouse is less enthusiastic about my interest in Orthodoxy than I’d hoped. What do you recommend I do?

Invariably, one spouse is more enthusiastic than the other. This is the norm. Again, for us everything begins and ends with prayer. There are somethings you can do, and some you should not. Contact us, and we’ll let you know what we recommend to make your transition easier for the most important loved ones in your life. Given time, they will deeply appreciate the effort, care, prayer and concern that this journey takes you on, and they will love you for doing it. Converting to Orthodoxy is a natural process and there’s no rush.

There is no Orthodox Church in my town – how can I start converting? How should I proceed?

Start by getting in touch with us. We will get you in touch with someone in your area who knows how to connect and help you out. We are here to help you on your journey. If you just can’t wait, try this site: Orthodoxy in America.

I’m in seminary, and I just realized that I’m really Orthodox in my faith? I want to start converting. Help! What do I do?

It’s not an unusual as you might think. These days many heterodox seminaries are studying the early Church, and the Church fathers. That inevitably leads to a serious conclusion. So, congratulations on stepping forward to serve the Lord of Hosts. You are probably aware that the Orthodox Church has its own seminaries.

Hop on over to Good Guys Wear Black, our sister site, and see the many places you can move to and prepare for a life of ordained service to the Lord in the Orthodox Church.

Many of us were in the same situation. We can help you out. For now, continue in your prayers, your studies, the reading of the Holy Scriptures, and add a little fasting to your weekly regimen.