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==Theological Foundations==
In Orthodox theology, the missionary vocation of the Orthodox Church originates from the Trinitarian relations of the Godhead, in that the Father sends the Son into the world for the salvation of mankind (cf. Psalm 57:3, John 7:16, 7:28, John 20:21). The Holy Spirit is likewise sent into the world (cf. Luke 24:49, John 14:26, John 15:26, John 16:7).
Christ handed His mission over to the Apostles when He commanded them to share the Good News of salvation with all peoples: “This Gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached throughout the whole world as a witness to all nations; and then the end of the world shall come” (Matthew 24:14).
The Lord’s final commandment before ascending to the Father is known as the Great Commission and is recorded in multiple accounts:
“ ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.’ ” (Matthew 28:19-20)