Why the ROC?

When I was initially inquiring into the Roman Orthodox Church, I asked a number of questions to the Chancellor, then Bishop Thomas Murray. The following comprises a portion of his answers to those questions. (+Lee).

Some questions concerning the Roman Orthodox Church

What is the role of the ROC in the world today?

The ROC specifically reaches out to Americans.  In a world where most Orthodox are "Eastern", the average American has been neglected.  As Benedictines, we are Western Rite, which is very familiar to most Americans, offering them a sense of comfort. 

In addition, each of our clergy are asked to look into their own communities to determine if there are specific needs that they can meet.  In reaching out to our neighbors, we serve God and provide a witness of Orthodoxy to all. 

Is the Orthodox Church "the only church" and all others are merely "pretenders to the throne?"

Orthodoxy is the "fullness" of the Church.  It comprises the fullness of theology and sacraments. That being said, it must also be admitted that while we have been faithful in preserving the doctrines and theology of the Apostolic Church, some Orthodox churches have become dry bones.  Christ said we would know our brothers by their love for one another, yet brotherly love is something that is seldom found in Orthodoxy. Yet when we look to Protestant Churches (which God has blessed over the past three centuries), we see evidence of great love.  

The lack of sound theology among most protestant groups is disturbing, but they demonstrate the love that Jesus told us would be evident among the believers.  So, while I contend that Orthodoxy is the fullness of the Church, I acknowledge that other Christian bodies share in Christ's grace and forgiveness.  Even so, we should be examples of Orthodoxy at its best, loving and with sound doctrines.  The Orthodox Church is the historic Apostolic Church, but all who know Christ share in His Church, no matter what their denomination.   

What is on your heart concerning how you (as an individual or as representing Orthodoxy) see yourself  fellowshipping with other Christians?

It is perfectly acceptable within our jurisdiction to visit other Christian denominations, and to join them in community prayers and such. Where we draw the line is in our participation in non-sacramental communion.  We do not receive communion from non-liturgical sources.  Let me recommend however that one not become overly participatory, to the extent that you are suggesting by example that one's denomination is unimportant.  It would be a mistake to suggest that all denominations are equal.  Orthodoxy is the fullness of the Church, and it would be a dis-service to the community if they thought you were condoning doctrinal error.  A certain line has to be drawn, but we can still acknowledge our "brotherhood". 

What is so attractive about the ROC? Why would someone want to be a member of the ROC?

To be honest Fr. Lee, the ROC is not for everybody.  We are small, and close knit.  We do not pay our clergy.  We are traditional, and quite unwilling to depart from the Apostolic traditions. 

But what attracted me, was the sincere heart of its clergy. Compassion is abundant.  I am humbled by Metr. DAVID's heart.  (Metropolitan David was the Patriarch when I joined the ROC.) In addition, his knowledge of Orthodoxy and his high moral integrity is very rare. 

Metr DAVID was a full-time Methodist Pastor, before converting to Orthodoxy.  He had a big Church, which paid for his home and car.  But after spending some time in Greece, he knew that Orthodoxy was the fullness he had been looking for.  Eventually his path lead him to the same Church you are now considering joining.  He has told me many times, he is not looking for a lot of clergy, but rather a select group of kind, compassionate and stable clergy. 

We have three vows.  1) Stability 2) Obedience 3) Chastity.

These three vows refer to stability of mind and body (not fluttering about from jurisdiction to jurisdiction), Obedience to the hierarchy.  If you ever feel as if your bishop is being unfair, you may request a decision by the Synod, but in doing so you are bound to the synods decision.  Chastity relates to both Monastics and Canons (married clergy).  If one is unmarried, the vow of chastity holds them to celibacy.  If one is married, the vow of chastity binds one to loyalty with their spouse.  Whatever station of life, monk or canon, the vow of chastity holds you to proper behavior.