"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
it has now been a couple of months since three saints orthodox church in ansonia too a very bold and telling step by withholding funds from the oca until essentially the crisis has ended. from a pragmatic view why put good money after bad into the hands of those who would squander it. unfortunately no other parish in the new england diocese has had the gumption to step up to the plate and support three saints and its bold initiative. it appears that they may be afraid of reprisals from their bishop, one who has been asked to champion the cause but seems to be comfortable with the quagmire as it now stands. three saints needs your prayers and your support - it is much like Jesus standing up for the right and fighting against the tyranny of pharisees. let them know that you are with them - they need your support now.
on 5/6/2008, 8:59 am