What is Mystagogy?

Mystagogy is a word which means ‘initiation into the mysteries.’

Following Baptism, Chrismation, and Communion, the newly Illumined begin the process of Mystagogy, and prepare for the work of the interior life.

Once you have been received into the Orthodox Faith, your Membership Coordinator has an additional checklist of formative activities for the coming year, so that you may continue your spiritual formation, and move to spiritual maturity. You will focusing on establishing a strong interior life, understanding the stages of temptation, and learning and practicing the techniques of interior watchfulness.

For the newly illumined, this is an absolutely necessary year of learning, formation, and practice.

• REVIEW the Parish Membership Expectations and the Mission statement of ASONA.
• RECEIVE the Eucharist as often as you can. Prepare for regular Confession!
• ATTEND the Mystagogy Classes when they are scheduled.
• LEARN the stages of temptations, the techniques of watchfulness, and the curative exercises of the soul, and apply them. 
• READING: Begin reading “The Faith” by Clark Carleton. (18 total) Here is the link to each weekly chapter online.
• DAILY PRAYER AND BIBLE READING: Using the ASONA prayerbook or any other. See the bottom of the website for daily readings.
• REGULAR TALKS WITH PRIEST: Get to know your priest, and continue with his guidance on your spiritual growth.
• ATTEND Services for the 12 Great Feasts of the Church. Vespers, Divine Liturgy, Lenten services – these are your primary formation.