ORTHODOX FORMATION
FOR REAL LIFE
Ancient Christian wisdom for the thoughts, struggles, relationships, and questions that shape everyday life.
Formation is more than information
Orthodox Christianity is not simply a set of beliefs to learn. It is a way of being healed, transformed, and brought into communion with God. Our formation programs combine faithful Orthodox teaching with practical application to ordinary life.
Featured Formation Program
THE EIGHT THOUGHTS
An Orthodox Path to Spiritual Healing
For centuries, Orthodox Christian spiritual writers have examined the patterns of thought that drive our actions and weigh upon the heart. This 30-class series draws from the Desert Fathers, St. John Cassian, St. John Climacus, and modern Orthodox teaching.
Wednesdays, September 2026–May 2027
7:30–8:30 p.m. Mountain Time
Live online through Zoom
7:30–8:30 p.m. Mountain Time
Live online through Zoom
Gluttony - appetite & self-control
Lust - desire & chastity
Avarice - possessions & security
Sadness - disappointment & despair
Anger - resentment & forgiveness
Acedia - distraction & restlessness
Vainglory - approval & image
Pride - the most subtle thought
Each thought is explored through three questions
THE FATHERS
What did the Desert Fathers observe about this thought?
THE TRADITION
How did later Orthodox teachers understand and confront it?
THE PRACTICE
How does it appear in contemporary life, and how can we respond?
How our programs work
LIVE
Most programs meet live online or in person, allowing participants to ask questions and join the conversation.
ACCESSIBLE
No prior theological education is required. Programs are serious, but designed for ordinary adults.
PRACTICAL
Formation connects Orthodox teaching to the patterns, decisions, relationships, and struggles of daily life.
Registration is Currently Closed for the 8 Thoughts
Check back for ongoing formation opportunities
Meet the Instructor
Fr. Basil Balke
Fr. Basil is a priest of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA and leads the Ukrainian Orthodox Community of Denver. His teaching focuses on the Orthodox spiritual tradition, personal healing, relationships, suffering, and the practical application of the Fathers to contemporary life.
He is also a trained counselor, and researcher. His background informs portions of the practical material, while these programs remain Orthodox spiritual formation rather than clinical treatment.
LEARN ABOUT OUR CLERGYAll are welcome
Formation programs are open to Orthodox Christians, catechumens, inquirers, Christians from other traditions, and people exploring Christianity. Participation does not require a commitment to join the parish or become Orthodox.
Spiritual formation, not psychotherapy
These programs provide Orthodox Christian religious education and spiritual formation. They may draw upon insights from psychology when useful, but they are not counseling, psychotherapy, clinical assessment, or a substitute for professional mental-health care.
Receive formation announcements
Be notified when registration opens for new classes, talks, reading groups, and parish events.
Begin where you are
You do not need prior knowledge of Orthodoxy to participate. Join a class, attend a service, submit a question, or introduce yourself.