"We have concluded that when the principle of racial division (i.e. phyletism) is juxtaposed with the teaching of the Gospel and the constant practice of the Church, it is not only foreign to it, but also completely opposed, to it. We decree the following in the Holy Spirit: 1. We reject and condemn racial division, that is, racial differences, national quarrels and disagreements in the Church of Christ, as being contrary to the teaching of the Gospel and the holy canons of our blessed fathers, on which the holy Church is established and which adorn human society and lead it to Divine piety. 2. In accordance with the holy canons, we proclaim that those who accept such division according to races and who dare to base on it hitherto unheard-of racial assemblies are foreign to the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church and are real schismatics."
Constantinople...1872
Dear Dean: I have been a bit surprised myself at how confession has been - downplayed? misunderstood? devalued? by many Orthodox Christians. At retreats I encounter people who have never been to confession or haven't been for 20+ years and even converts who did not do a "life confession" before they were received into the Church. I try not to let my jaw hit the ground when I hear these things and simply encourage people to come to confession. In almost all cases it has been very positive. I truly believe that our priests, backed by their Bishops, need to be a bit more insistent in this area. Our Bishop asks people to come every 4-6 weeks if they are receiving the Holy Mysteries on a regular basis.
(therevhov) on 12/15/2007, 3:15 am, in reply to "Re: Interesting Post"