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"We have concluded that when the principle of phyletism (i.e. ecclesiastical nationalism) 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
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    Re: Whistling Past the Orthodox Graveyard

    Posted by Al on 6/28/2009, 10:16 am, in reply to "Whistling Past the Orthodox Graveyard"

    What I find interesting is the statement, "Orthodox Christianity is not dead yet. Its famous monastery on Mount Athos in Greece has enjoyed new growth recently, and in America some Orthodox churches are drawing converts attracted by the glorious liturgy and ancient traditions. It is unfortunate that Orthodoxy's spiritual leader feels compelled to position the Orthodox with a Western Europe that is, in fact, spiritually dead."

    Is Bartholomew positioning Orthodoxy with a spiritually dead Western Europe, or trying to open our eyes to more than just the spirituality of the Faith? As I have posted before, yes, we have "glorious liturgy and ancient traditions". But what about living a full Christian life outside of personal piety? Is he perhaps speaking out against anthropocentrism, and the rape of God's creation by a self-serving mankind?

    I doubt if the EP can turn the tide of Islam in Turkey. I doubt if Orthodox Christians hiding in our Churches and icon corners are going to transform the world in which we live.

    There is much of Bartholomew's actions with which one can take issue. Concern for the planet and ALL of God's creation isn't one that I would question.

    Al
    Paros Island, Greece
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