Foundations of Orthodox Christianity

Foundations of Orthodox Christianity in 2022

In 2020, The Good Shepherd presented its catechism program, Foundations of Orthodox Christianity. Like many Parish initiatives, it went online and was able to continue under our two lockdowns. We celebrated the fruits of this course with the baptism and chrismation of our newest members of the community.

Resuming in 2021, Foundations of Orthodox Christianity is presenting a new and expanded course based on Metropolitan Hilarion Alfeyev's book series Orthodox Christianity and the official catechism of the Archdiocese.

This course is suited for those who are seeking to become Orthodox, existing Orthodox who seek to reacquaint themselves with the Faith and people who simply wish to enquire and learn more.

The sessions will take place in person twice each month from February to November and will run for approximately 75 minutes. Sessions will be delivered in-person at the Religious Centre and simultaneously online via Zoom following the Sunday Liturgy.

To register your interest in participating in the course, send us an email to introduce yourself. We will respond with details about how to connect with our sessions.

Details

The Good Shepherd Orthodox Church, located in Clayton, Melbourne, is a living witness to the power of the Gospel and the fullness of the Christian Faith in modern, secular Australia.

We are a vibrant Australian Christian community under the direction of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of Australia, New Zealand & the Philippines, which belongs to the jurisdiction of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East.

The Church of Antioch is the continuation of the Christian community founded in Antioch by the Apostles Peter (who served as its first bishop) and Paul. The Patriarchate of Antioch is the oldest of the ancient Patriarchates constituting the one Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ.

All services are in the English language and are streamed online via Facebook and YouTube. The Good Shepherd hosts regular online meetings for fellowship, prayer, patristic reading and children’s Sunday school.

Blog

The Path to Repentance and Renewal

Athanasius Wilkins

February 15, 2026 11:30 AM

In this profound sermon, Athanasius Wilkins reflects on the themes of separation, service, and salvation as taught in the Gospel. With insights from the Fathers, he urges believers to prepare their hearts for repentance during the journey to Great Lent, emphasizing acts of mercy as expressions of faith. Wilkins calls the faithful to embrace fasting, almsgiving, and prayer in pursuit of a deeper communion with God.

The Journey of Repentance and God's Boundless Mercy

Luke Ebsworthy

February 8, 2026 11:30 AM

In this heartfelt sermon, Luke Ebsworthy explores the profound lessons within the parable of the Prodigal Son. Through theological insights, Luke delves into themes of sin, repentance, and divine forgiveness, drawing from patristic interpretations to illustrate the path from spiritual separation to reconciliation with God. Ebsworthy's message is a compelling reminder of the endless mercy that awaits all who seek to return to the Father's embrace.

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