"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
Re: Discretion and denial cannot overcome demographics.
Al you wrote: Nominated by the members of the diocese because the other candidate was so well educated and from a prominent family, it intimidated some folks.
Why should a well-educated candidate from a prominent family intimidate the clergy and laity? What were they looking for? Were they fooled by long hair and a beard? If this was really the case, then the OCA has more problems than just at the episcopate level. You mentioned the OCA's disdain for those clergy who are well-educated. Why is that the case? Was there some kind of ignorant elder guruism at the heart of the problem?
