Converting to Orthodoxy from Southern Baptist/Reformed theology as a husband and father

Long story short — By the grace of God over the last 6 months, I’ve discovered, studied, prayed over, and accepted the truth of Orthodoxy. I’m more than willing to share more about my journey to any who ask or are interested. However, the purpose of my post is to ask for prayer and guidance.

Some important things to know:

  • I’m coming from a Reformed background, so there’s still aspects of Orthodoxy I’m having trouble understanding (I.e. icons, veneration, Mary, praying to saints and Mary, etc.). But I’m trusting that this is the true Church instituted by Christ through His apostles.
  • My wife and I attend a very Reformed Southern Baptist church. I genuinely love the church and the people within and have had no issues with anyone within.
  • My wife is very Calvinistic in her theology.
  • She does not know about my spiritual journey - I wanted to thoroughly study it before bringing it up to her in a serious manner.
  • I had mentioned in passing that I was looking into Orthodox theology a few months ago, and she reacted very negatively/poorly.
  • Other than that, our marriage is the best that it’s ever been at this point in time.
  • We have a 4 year old son and another due in May (praise God!).
  • The closest parish is 1.5-2 hours away.
  • I don’t have any access to an OSB or a prayer book other than just using my phone.

Where I’m at currently is this: From what I’ve discerned, the best way to be a godly and loving husband to my wife during this season is to preserve and protect stability during her pregnancy, and therefore quietly and privately live out Orthodoxy to the best of my ability for the time being.

Is this the right thing to do? When should I try to introduce the idea of Orthodoxy to her again? Should I set a timeline/date to begin serious conversations with her?

Anyone else have any similar experiences? Any advice, guidance, prayers are most appreciated.

Also - I am very new to all of this. What practices can I begin to implement? I want to be faithful to Christ.

Posted Dec 3, 2025, 1:30 AM UTC

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