REPLY TO REPLY #14, Second Chance,
With due respect to what I perceive is the good intent of your proposal, I think it is a move that would be too drastic for the majority of the faithfull and the clergy at this time, even though it is long over due. Despite the interest for administrate unity of you, me and probably the majority of the members of this forum, I don't not think it is even an issue the overwhelming majority of the faithfull desire or understand. The OCA might be an exception to this statement. I think it would result in schism and law suits in each jurisdiction.
That is why I am very supportive of the regional Episcopal Assemblies plan put forward by the IV Pre-Conciliar Commission for the Holy and Great Synod. It would allow for the status quo to remain in place, but at the same time, would enable the Episcopal Assemblies to develop structures and activities for us to function routinely within a pan-Orthodox environment. As pointed out in the Ligonier statement, there are no regional structures currently for such activities, nor are there regional links that would encourage local activities. We must sponsor joint activities that enable us to be with each other, to experience the sharing of our oneness in faith. These activities would include: services, conventions of similar programs, like religious education, charitable programs, retreats, spiritual renewal and youth activities, and much more.
Once a large percentage of the clergy and faithful have gotten accustomed to doing things jointly, nationally, regionally and locally, while maintaining current cultural variances as they now exist, unified administration will naturally manifest itself, I believe.