Posted by recent letter from Abp Job (dcalvert) on 5/5/2007, 3:26 am Christ is Risen! I greet you with those words of victory and hope as we continue to be strengthened by the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ, amidst the ongoing confusion, division, disillusionment and moral failings which afflict our Orthodox Church in America. I am in receipt of your letter of 28 March 2007 which reveals the heartfelt concern of your parish but also its frustration and demoralization. This brings me great sadness, but, at the same time, a greater sense of urgency to take any and all measures necessary to bring this tragic episode in the history of our Church to an honorable and righteous conclusion, which will result in a complete disclosure and revelation of the truth, correction of all problems and failings and a restoration of trust and confidence in the leadership of the Church. You have informed me that you have made the decision to withhold the monthly payment of the assessment to the Central Church Administration of the OCA, while continuing to support our Diocesan Church. I respect this decision and will not ask you to violate the collective conscience of the parish. Nor will I compromise your decision by having the Diocese 'cover' your assessment to the Central Church Administration (although now the Diocese is not in a financial position to do so) as had been the case with other parishes in the past. I ask only that these funds be placed formally in an escrow account. I also take very seriously your request concerning the 'Palatine resolution' which will be considered at the Diocesan Council meeting scheduled for next month. I must, confess, however, that I am uncomfortable with parishes taking such actions unilaterally, and the possible misconceptions that could result. I would have preferred that the Diocese would act in a united manner. But we have never faced such a crisis before, and it is difficult to judge precisely on the 'best' way to proceed. With profound gratitude for your staunch support and continued prayers for my unworthiness, and in hope of a brighter future for our beloved Orthodox Church in American, I remain +Job
Link: click here to read the original on www.ocanews.org
A recent letter from Archbishop Job to St. Paul the Apostle Orthodox Church in Dayton OH dated April 17th, 2007 clarifies the Archbishop's position on the growing number of parishes considering withholding assessments in protest throughout his Diocese to the lack of transparency and accountability in Syosset. The Archbishop writes: "Reverend and dear Fr. Ted and Parish Council members:
Faithfully yours in the Our Risen Lord,
Archbishop of Chicago and the Midwest. "
Responses:
