"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
the real scandal is the gestapo like tactics and fear -- for example instead of being a father like shephard i understand that bishop nikon - true to expected form - is strong arming three saints and is intimidating the parish -- they have asked him to champion the cause but it seems like the oca synod of bishops -- the perception of which have violated the ten commandments as a beginning -- are perpetuating the scandal instead of confessing, repenting and clearing the air thereby removing all doubts and perceptions -- the actions of the bishop and his pawn like clergy toward three saints hints of the reaction of scared and intimidated people who are afraid of the truth -- but alas this is how we began with the boston tea party - it took only a few good men and these are the parishioners of three saints church. these actions by the oca leadership are the real scandal
on 5/7/2008, 8:21 am, in reply to "The Real Scandal of the OCA"