"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: Mass conversion in Philippines; What happened in Indonesia; A Unity idea
According to a Filipina Orthodox on another site, the EP parish in Manila is not doing so well, lack of attendance for feasts days and slow church growth...perhaps the hellenization effort is curbing it...
But I certainly agree with you about the Antiochians having their hands full trying to govern the church from Australia. If we have learned anything from past experiences, it is vital to have a bishop very involved with the formation of the new missions. They really need the oversight of one who has been Orthodox for many years. I believe their vicar will be a newby which might present some problems in the near future.
I agree with your sentiment about working together as one church. Souls are at stake but we are still more interested in fighting turf wars.
