A Crackdown on Russian Protestants

[bogdan]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

That's interesting to me. In my catechumenate I was bothered when my priest talked about how the Western ideal of freedom as we understand it in America is actually slavery - slavery to having to make choices about everything to stay in God's grace. True freedom is reaching the point of not having to make these choices, it is simply doing God's will.

In this case, I take that to mean that people are more free if they are given Orthodoxy as the only religious option. Why would you allow someone to easily convert to a faith less true than total truth?

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

[Orthodoc]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

That's interesting to me. In my catechumenate I was bothered when my priest talked about how the Western ideal of freedom as we understand it in America is actually slavery - slavery to having to make choices about everything to stay in God's grace. True freedom is reaching the point of not having to make these choices, it is simply doing God's will.

In this case, I take that to mean that people are more free if they are given Orthodoxy as the only religious option. Why would you allow someone to easily convert to a faith less true than total truth?

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

One question.  Where were all these Protestant missionaries during the communist persecution when doing what they do now would have gotten them a more severe punishment than explusion from the country?


=====================

Can any of them justify the following quotation against proseltyzing by St Paul found in Romans 15:20-21 -

20:

And so I have made it my aim to preach the Gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man's foundation,

  but as it is written;

21:

"To whom He was not announced, they shall see; And those who have not heard shall understand."

=====================

Orthodoc

[Justin Kissel]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

[Justin Kissel]

Can any of them justify the following quotation against proseltyzing by St Paul found in Romans 15:20-21 -20:

And so I have made it my aim to preach the Gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man's foundation,

  but as it is written;

21:

"To whom He was not announced, they shall see; And those who have not heard shall understand."

=====================

Orthodoc

 

[Orthodoc]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

[Heorhij]

For Christians above all men are forbidden to correct the
stumblings of sinners by force...it is necessary to make a man
better not by force but by persuasion. We neither have autority
granted us by law to restrain sinners, nor, if it were, should we
know how to use it, since God gives the crown to those who are
kept from evil, not by force, but by choice.

St. John Chrysostom

http://www.balamandmonastery.org.lb/fathers/indexsayings2.htm

[NorthernPines]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

[PeterTheAleut]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

Why do you find this so shocking?

[podkarpatska]

Many of us in the United States and Canada who are so-called 'cradle Orthodox' are the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren of brave men and women who left the oppressive shores of European autocracies and 'empires', be they Austro-Hungarian, Russian, Ottoman or others, to come to North America in order to have the ability to profess their Faith and love of God in a country that didn't force a belief system upon them.  In fact, many of them returned to Orthodoxy within a few years of coming to America.  To argue that our Faith is somehow against religious liberty is slippery slope to the intellectualism and defense of oppression and persecution. To  believe otherwise is, I fear, to keep counsel with those who would force a model of 'religion' upon people through terror and fear, such as the Taliban in our days, or the Cromwellians of post-Elizabethian England or any of their ilk throughout history. I agree that the proseltyzing in Eastern Europe among the believers is offensive and contrary to Scripture - but keep in mind that is just as true in Europe as it is here in America. We all need to bear witness to the truth and power of our Faith in the face of those who would challenge us.

[Aristobolus]

Protestantism is poison.  Its fruit is iconclastic with its "worship centers" in warehouses and shopping malls.  It is the purveyor of gender-neutrality as it ignores and at times despises the Blessed Theotokos.  And it tends toward universalism and even nihilism as it works its way through a culture.  Is there some truth it it?  Of course it has elements of Orthodoxy in it, but so did Arianism. 

The American notion of "freedom of religion" has resulted in a freedom from religion as public squares are increasingly devoid in December of anthing reminiscent of the Nativity of Christ.  The Russian Orthodox do not want that to happen in their country.  They were persecuted by the communist for most of the last century; they do not want to set the stage for ideological liberals to poison the good thing that is happening in Russia.  Accordingly, Orthodox must not physically harm anyone in order to preserve truth; but this in no way implies that a majority Orthodox country must give equal rights and privileges to heterodox sects.

[Aristobolus]

A further thought.  I can completely understand those whose families have emigrated from Eastern Europe believing in freedoms of speech and religion.  You were oppressed in your own country, often with Soviet soldiers enforcing this tyranny.  But for those of us whose families have been in the U.S for some time (mine for well over three hundred years) we know that "freedom of speech" has been co-opted by liberals to protect vice such as pornography, child molestation (Why has the Acorn offices that promoted bring Hispanic children into our country for child prostitution not been closed down?) and the like.  Also freedom of religion has become freedom from religion.  In Russia the Church has successfully re-introduced Orthodoxy into the public schools; in the U.S such activities are becoming increasingly difficult.  This American Protestant country must look like heaven to many who have emigrated here, but for those who have deep roots here it is increasingly becoming an Adam Lambert hell. 

[bogdan]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

I thought the "convert or die" attitude came from the Catholic Church in the Crusades, I didn't know it was ever prevalent in Orthodoxy. That attitude deprives someone of the chance of ever converting over one hard-hearted moment in their lives. Clearly that is wrong.

This world is a spiritual war. The devil took well meaning (or not) Christians and used them to create perverted parallel religions such as Protestantism, which have the appearance of truth but miss out where it counts most. If Theosis really is the whole point of life, and Protestants do not even have the concept in their religion, what can we say about that, except that it's wrong and should be suppressed?

This is the Church protecting the flock from something less than the full truth. That's different from Protestants converting pagans, which is bringing them closer to the full truth. Their work in Russia is pulling people away from it.

[podkarpatska]

History tells us that if the Church, ANY Church, depends upon the coercive power of the STATE in order for it to thrive, that the foundation upon which that Church is planted is ultimately infirm. I find it ironic that many who view themselves as modern 'conservatives' condemn the actions of the state in economic activity and view the state as the source of society's troubles, but have no problem using the coercive powers of the same state to their own ends when they are in power. Do you really believe that the Russian state apparatus has the true interests of the Orthodox Church and the salvation of souls as its core principles? I am not defending Protestantism, but merely commenting upon the hubris of some. When invoking the history of this country,  keep in mind the intolerance and persecution of the some of the early settlers on these shores,directed towards Catholics and other non-Protestant immigrants. The religious defense of slavery in the 19th century by some American Protestants comes to mind as well. We need to be careful when we seek the state's assistance in doing the work of God.

[Orthodoc]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

I thought the "convert or die" attitude came from the Catholic Church in the Crusades, I didn't know it was ever prevalent in Orthodoxy. That attitude deprives someone of the chance of ever converting over one hard-hearted moment in their lives. Clearly that is wrong.

This world is a spiritual war. The devil took well meaning (or not) Christians and used them to create perverted parallel religions such as Protestantism, which have the appearance of truth but miss out where it counts most. If Theosis really is the whole point of life, and Protestants do not even have the concept in their religion, what can we say about that, except that it's wrong and should be suppressed?

This is the Church protecting the flock from something less than the full truth. That's different from Protestants converting pagans, which is bringing them closer to the full truth. Their work in Russia is pulling people away from it.

That's why it's called proseltyzing rather than Evangelizing.

Orthodoc

[believer74]

Why should there be any Byzantine missionaries in Russia? Why should Roman empire export it's religion abroad? Damn that Vladimir for destroying Russia! Damn those Cyril and Methodius for destroying Russian culture!

St Cyril and Methodius were bringing truth in their missionary activities. St Vladimir may have forced people into baptism on pain of death, but he was doing it for their salvation. Meanwhile, Protestant bodies present in Russia are spreading lies and drawing people away from Orthodox. Your comparison is risible.

I must quote this one more time, "St Vladimir may have forced people into baptism on pain of death, but he was doing it for their salvation. "  Are you serious? I can't believe some of the responses to this posting. I'll take the American "hodge-podge" anytime, my friends. This is scary.

[PeterTheAleut]

Why should there be any Byzantine missionaries in Russia? Why should Roman empire export it's religion abroad? Damn that Vladimir for destroying Russia! Damn those Cyril and Methodius for destroying Russian culture!

St Cyril and Methodius were bringing truth in their missionary activities. St Vladimir may have forced people into baptism on pain of death, but he was doing it for their salvation. Meanwhile, Protestant bodies present in Russia are spreading lies and drawing people away from Orthodox. Your comparison is risible.

I must quote this one more time, "St Vladimir may have forced people into baptism on pain of death, but he was doing it for their salvation. "  Are you serious? I can't believe some of the responses to this posting. I'll take the American "hodge-podge" anytime, my friends. This is scary.

Why?

[NorthernPines]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

Why do you find this so shocking?

Because it's shocking?  

I find it shocking because it seems to be so contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. Not to mention our understanding of free will. Why would a Church who teaches free will for every human being, think it a good idea to then FORCE people to be Christians? (God gives free will, but we shall taketh away?) It's shocking to me that so many people here apparently agree with this practice, not just in ancient times, but as good state/Church policy today. I guess I can't explain why it's shocking, because I'm just not articulate enough, but it is. But to each their own I guess.

[NorthernPines]

If Theosis really is the whole point of life, and Protestants do not even have the concept in their religion, what can we say about that, except that it's wrong and should be suppressed?

Well, just to defend "Protestants" I don't think it's completely accurate to say they don't have a concept of Theosis. Granted they wouldn't use the same terms and words and phrases we do, and there are some Protestants that just don't have the concept at all, but I'd say generally speaking, a lot of Protestant churches DO have the concept of Theosis. Just not as fleshed out or complete as what Orthodoxy has. But there are seeds of it there within some circles of Protestantism. Indeed though, it's somewhat incomplete.

[simplygermain]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

Why do you find this so shocking?

Because it's shocking?  

I find it shocking because it seems to be so contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. Not to mention our understanding of free will. Why would a Church who teaches free will for every human being, think it a good idea to then FORCE people to be Christians? (God gives free will, but we shall taketh away?) It's shocking to me that so many people here apparently agree with this practice, not just in ancient times, but as good state/Church policy today. I guess I can't explain why it's shocking, because I'm just not articulate enough, but it is. But to each their own I guess.

where does our church teach free will for all?is there an appointed day in our calende, or a certain scriptural reference which has been interpreted by a holy father in this way?

[PeterTheAleut]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

Why do you find this so shocking?

Because it's shocking?  

I find it shocking because it seems to be so contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. Not to mention our understanding of free will. Why would a Church who teaches free will for every human being, think it a good idea to then FORCE people to be Christians? (God gives free will, but we shall taketh away?) It's shocking to me that so many people here apparently agree with this practice, not just in ancient times, but as good state/Church policy today. I guess I can't explain why it's shocking, because I'm just not articulate enough, but it is. But to each their own I guess.

Is it possible there's much more to this than meets your eye and that you're judging appearances too quickly?

[NorthernPines]

where does our church teach free will for all?is there an appointed day in our calende, or a certain scriptural reference which has been interpreted by a holy father in this way?

Are you serious? Isn't that the 2000 year old teaching of the Church that all humanity has been given free will to either choose or reject God? If not, then perhaps my Catechumen classes years ago didn't do their job. I certainly could be mistaken, but that's kind of central to Orthodoxy, our free will....or so I thought. What gives you the idea all humans DON'T have free will? I'd have to pull out my OSB, but I'm sure there is an article about free will in the Orthodox Study Bible, so I don't think I'm saying anything un-Orthodox. But I could be, who knows?

edited to add an extra clarifying (I hope) thought

[NorthernPines]

Is it possible there's much more to this than meets your eye and that you're judging appearances too quickly?

Much more to what?

To the "historical context" or to people's apparent opinion that oppressing other religions is good? (I really don't know which you're refering to)

I guess in both cases, for sure, I could be missing something here, or am just not "getting" some of the points being made. And yes I could be judging appearances too quickly. Absolutely. However in my defense, no one has come and "corrected" what they said and explained what they "really" meant . . . but of course I could be totally wrong not just in my perception of what's been said supporting a suppression of Protestantism in Russia. It just seems like quite a few are pretty supportive of it for reasons I do not think validate said suppression. But I could be wrong, I admit that, or I could just be jumping the gun. I concede both things are possible.

maybe someone will correct me and say they don't really think Protestantism or other religions should be suppressed in Russia. Or in the end, they may feel their reasons for thinking that are good reasons and I simply don't. In that case we'd have to agree to disagree.

Which is probably for the best anyways, because I admit I'm not schooled enough in Russian history to know much that I haven't read in Fr. Schmemman or some Met. Ware.

[bogdan]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

Why do you find this so shocking?

Because it's shocking? 

I find it shocking because it seems to be so contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. Not to mention our understanding of free will. Why would a Church who teaches free will for every human being, think it a good idea to then FORCE people to be Christians? (God gives free will, but we shall taketh away?) It's shocking to me that so many people here apparently agree with this practice, not just in ancient times, but as good state/Church policy today. I guess I can't explain why it's shocking, because I'm just not articulate enough, but it is. But to each their own I guess.

We do have free will, but the point is to replace our fragmented wills with God's perfect will.

I don't really see anyone advocating forced conversions, but rather taking away the opportunity to apostatize to another religion. It removes a huge source of Doubt for the Russian people. If no other religions are allowed to proselytize, the likelihood of someone converting is pretty small. That may sound Orwellian, but freedom in the secular/western understanding ("I am my own person, I can do whatever I want") really is not a Christian value. It assumes we know what is best for us, when we don't. True freedom comes from slavery to Christ and following his will, and it's the Church's job to keep us from running away from our Master.

[Alveus Lacuna]

And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. ~ Joshua 24:15 (I don't know if this corresponds to the LLX).

Our free will is always at play.  Even those who are baptized into Orthodoxy decide whether or not to follow Christ every day of their lives.  They might not ever "accept Jesus into their heart" in some formal matter, but the Orthodox Christian has to accept or reject Christ every day.

Even if people are forcibly "converted", they still cannot be forced to serve and love God as an adopted child; an heir to His new covenant.  Those who converted by the sword still made their choice to serve God inwardly daily or to reject Him.  Free will cannot be suppressed.

[CRCulver]

I find it shocking because it seems to be so contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. Not to mention our understanding of free will. Why would a Church who teaches free will for every human being, think it a good idea to then FORCE people to be Christians?

Even when rulers have forced their subjects into baptism, the individuals were free to retain their own beliefs. The residents of Kyiv who were forced into the Dniepr could still have rejected God in their hearts.

What we have here instead with big forced public conversions is the ruler wiping out the expression of heretical beliefs, which is a prudent action and one that several rulers have been glorified as saints for. No one is forced to be Christian, but the Church has condoned efforts to stop people from drawing others away from Orthodoxy.

[simplygermain]

I can recall several references to slavery which seem to allude to certain types of slavery being o.k.
Jeremiah 2:14

And is not Judaism a slave itself through the Law which they are held to? Until the Lord reveals Himself to them as Father.

From the footnotes of the Orthodox OT Jeremiah 5:23-28 When God's people have an innatentive and disobedient heart (v.23) They not only miss the good things He offers,(skipping for clarity) ...When dedication to the Lord is compromised, social justice is not to be found.
So if our Righteous God sees fit to force our hand for His own glory, who are we to understand why or even question the reasons? Especially when later in the history of these peoples, it makes them more devout and seperates the wheat from the chaff.

It seems apparent that when we follow God as a people and then fall out of line, He offers us unto our own folly that we would see the error of our ways, even unto servitude.

[Orthodoc]

1) Where did Jesus talk about freedom of religion?  Not saying it's not there, I just can't think of anything.

I can't imagine the saints of old defending the freedom of religion of Arians or Nestorians --especially if the Church had real power to suppress the heresies as Russia does.

Indeed, many Emperors suppressed their theological opponents (sometimes that worked out for Orthodoxy, sometimes not so much.) We've come a long way since then... some of us, anyway...

Wasn't it jolly old St Nicholas who is revered by Roman Catholics, Orthodox Catholics, and Protestants alike who defended the faith by punching another bishop?

Orthodoc

But to me, there is a big difference between St. Nicholas punching someone in the face one time, in a moment of weakness, (and in a moment of frustration and in a way love for truth) and a consistent lifestyle or national/Church policy of suppression and or forced conversions at the threat of death.   What I find shocking is more Orthodox don't find the "convert or die" attitudes in the Church's past more shocking.

Why do you find this so shocking?

Because it's shocking?  

I find it shocking because it seems to be so contrary to the teachings of the Gospel. Not to mention our understanding of free will. Why would a Church who teaches free will for every human being, think it a good idea to then FORCE people to be Christians? (God gives free will, but we shall taketh away?) It's shocking to me that so many people here apparently agree with this practice, not just in ancient times, but as good state/Church policy today. I guess I can't explain why it's shocking, because I'm just not articulate enough, but it is. But to each their own I guess.

So is proselyzing.  Why don't you find that shocking?  You are talking about an event that took place over a thousand years ago when all the peasants were illerate and looked to the Czar as their father.  Many pagans and Christians were forced to convert to Islam after its creation in the middle east.  Why aren't your missionaries going over to places like Iran, Saudia Arabia, and Iraq to convert or reconvert the Moselms back to Christianity?  Where were your missionaries during the 70+ years of persecution in Russia, Ukraine, and other eastern European countries that suffered for their faith so much.  Instead, contrary the teachings of St Paul you are proseltyzing by BUILDING ON ANOTHERS WEAKENED FOUNDATION!  That's what I find shocking.  The Russian/Ukrainians etc.  knew about Jesus and were praying to him long before your Protestant denominations were in existence.  Yet you try and bring the Bible to people who belong to the Christian denominatian that gave you that very Bible!  That's what I find shocking.

Orthodoc

[PeterTheAleut]

Is it possible there's much more to this than meets your eye and that you're judging appearances too quickly?

Much more to what?

I don't know.

To the "historical context" or to people's apparent opinion that oppressing other religions is good? (I really don't know which you're refering to)

Why limit my question to only these two options?

[CRCulver]

Why aren't your missionaries going over to places like Iran, Saudia Arabia, and Iraq to convert or reconvert the Moselms back to Christianity?

They are. House churches are spreading in many Muslim countries. And sadly, the Christian community in places like Syria and Egypt no longer has the drive to evangelize their Muslim compatriots, keeping to themselves in exchange for security, meaning that a lot of people who wish to leave Islam are turning to Protestantism instead.

Where were your missionaries during the 70+ years of persecution in Russia, Ukraine, and other eastern European countries that suffered for their faith so much.

They were there. Protestant organizations ran a clandestine import of Bibles into the Soviet Union from Finland during several decades of Communism. Accounts of life in gulags regularly mention the presence of Protestant proselytizers.

Yet you try and bring the Bible to people who belong to the Christian denomination that gave you that very Bible!

Some Protestant denominations are going after Orthodox, that is true. However, I find that the Lutherans are often evangelizing Russia's non-Christian minorities, and they are doing so because the Orthodox Church has decided that it will be for ethnic Russians only. In the Republic of Mari El, where I do most of my fieldwork, Lutherans have come to serve Mari villages because the Orthodox Church has little desire to deal with the non-Russian inhabitants of the Republic. The Mari historically worship trees, and the Orthodox presence acts as if all these pagans with their weird rituals are already good as damned instead of being in desperate need of the gospel. Other Protestants are trying to convert the Nenets and Evenki because the Orthodox Church just doesn't go to them.

(The example of Fr. Syosev was really heart-warming. Finally a Russian priest who reached out to the Tatars in spite of official policy! I hope that after his martyrdom, others will continue his work.)

A great deal of Protestant infiltration is done because of Orthodox bodies' fear of causing interfaith tensions, as in the Middle East, or simple apathy and ethnocentrism, as in Russia and Central Asia. Our church needs to get back in shape. Governmental actions which limit Protestant groups may solve part of the problem, but there are legions of people whom the Church is not addressing.

[believer74]

Even when rulers have forced their subjects into baptism, the individuals were free to retain their own beliefs. The residents of Kyiv who were forced into the Dniepr could still have rejected God in their hearts.

What we have here instead with big forced public conversions is the ruler wiping out the expression of heretical beliefs, which is a prudent action and one that several rulers have been glorified as saints for. No one is forced to be Christian, but the Church has condoned efforts to stop people from drawing others away from Orthodoxy.

If we really think Orthodoxy is true, then why are people so scared of a religious 'free market'? Won't Orthodoxy prevail, and if not, why? I would think there's more value in the choice to convert - FOR the individual doing the converting - or, to remain Orthodox, whatever the case may be - when he or she has actually had an opportunity to see and think about what else is going on out there. I do believe there is validity in this process beyond an American context. Yes, maybe 'back then' the kings were people's gods, and the masses were uneducated, but different ideals have come to be since then and the world IS different.

Some of the statements made today appear to portray the Russian populace as children who can't think and choose for themselves.  

And anyway, for those who would choose to attend Protestant churches, who are WE, in our finite knowledge, to say that this isn't playing some part in their larger spiritual journey? Does God not allow the diversity of churches that we see today to flourish? Do we know for sure why?

Is there an official Orthodox stand on this, BTW?  

[Pilgrim]

Protestantism causes alienation from Russian culture?

The protestants in that video seemed very Russian to me (women wearing headscarves, etc).

Anyway, who hasn't met the American Orthodox convert who grows a long beard and believes that Russias salvation lies in its restoration of the Tsar?

[Orthodoc]

Even when rulers have forced their subjects into baptism, the individuals were free to retain their own beliefs. The residents of Kyiv who were forced into the Dniepr could still have rejected God in their hearts.

What we have here instead with big forced public conversions is the ruler wiping out the expression of heretical beliefs, which is a prudent action and one that several rulers have been glorified as saints for. No one is forced to be Christian, but the Church has condoned efforts to stop people from drawing others away from Orthodoxy.

If we really think Orthodoxy is true, then why are people so scared of a religious 'free market'? Won't Orthodoxy prevail, and if not, why? I would think there's more value in the choice to convert - FOR the individual doing the converting - or, to remain Orthodox, whatever the case may be - when he or she has actually had an opportunity to see and think about what else is going on out there. I do believe there is validity in this process beyond an American context. Yes, maybe 'back then' the kings were people's gods, and the masses were uneducated, but different ideals have come to be since then and the world IS different.

Some of the statements made today appear to portray the Russian populace as children who can't think and choose for themselves.  

And anyway, for those who would choose to attend Protestant churches, who are WE, in our finite knowledge, to say that this isn't playing some part in their larger spiritual journey? Does God not allow the diversity of churches that we see today to flourish? Do we know for sure why?

Is there an official Orthodox stand on this, BTW?  

The Orthodox Church was weakened by 70+ years of destruction and persecution.  There were literally thousands of Churches that were destroyed or turned until barns, urinals, bars, etc.  Religious education was forbidden and  thousands of clergy were murdered,exiled, or imprisoned. It needs time to rebuild and replace all that was destroyed.  Then Protestants come in with their money, false promises, etc. instead of helping their fellow christians.  That's like Home Depot or Hechingers coming in to compete against the local mom and pop store and calling it equal competion!

Orthodoxy needs the time and money to be able to compete with those that come in to destroy it. Those who have absolutely no respect for it. I admire the government for protecting the church that has been there for a 1000+ years while it heals itself and regenerates itself.  It has done a fabulous job so far. While Orthodoxy is is growing by leaps on bounds and churches being built or restored at an enormous rate in these Orthodox countries, Roman Catholics and Protestant Churches are being closed in the west (*).  THAT'S WHAT WESTERN CHRISTIANS SHOULD BE WORRIED ABOUT INSTEAD OF SHEEP STEALING FROM PEOPLE WHO HAVE SUFFERED SO MUCH.  Clean your own back yard before you invade anothers  -

====================


MOSCOW [RNS} - Some 200,000 clergy, many crucified, scalped, and otherwise

tortured, were killed during the communist era in the former Soviet Union, a

Russian commission reported here on November 27, 1995.  Another 500,000

believers were martyred and millions exiled.  There were 40,000 churches destroyed between 1922 and1980, the report said.


"Clergymen were crucified on churches' Holy Gates, shot scalped, and

strangled.," said Alexander Yakovlev, head of the Commission for the

Rehabilitation of the Victims of Political Repression which prepared the

report for Russian president Boris Yeltsin.  "I was especially shocked by

accounts of priests turned into columns of ice in winter, "Yakovlev

continued, adding that the commission unearthed documents showing that as

early as 1918, Vladimr Lenin had odered a campagn of "merciless terror

against priests.

====================

01 December 2008

Russian Orthodox Church statistics

(from the report by Metropolitan Yuvenaly of Krutistsy and Kolomna at the meeting of the capital's clergy in the Cathedral of Christ the Savior on 12 December 2008)

The Russian Orthodox Church has 157 dioceses (compared to 142 last year), 203 bishops (149 ruling bishops and 48 vicar bishops). The total number of clergy in the Russian Church equals to 30 670. The number of parishes - 29 268 (compared to 27 942 last year). Today the Russian Orthodox Church has 804 monasteries, including 142 monasteries and 153 nunneries in the CIS-countries and three monasteries and three nunneries in foreign countries. Also acting are 203 representations and 65 hermitages.

Besides, there are 25 stauropegial monasteries (under direct subordination to the Patriarch). The Russian Church Abroad has 16 monasteries and 9 nunneries.

The number of Russian Orthodox theological schools equals to 87. The number of Sunday schools in the dioceses increased by one thousand - from 10 141 to 11 051.

The number of churches and chapels acting in Moscow has increased from 851 to 872 since December 2007. About 1838 clergymen are working in the capital today (last year their number equaled to 1770).
http://www.interfax-religion.com/?act=reference&div=3
--------------------

...In 1914 in Russia, there were 55,173 Russian Orthodox churches and 29,593 chapels, 112,629 priests and deacons, 550 monasteries and 475 convents with a total of 95,259 monks and nuns.  ...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russian_Orthodox_Church

===================


(*)

U.S. Protestant population seen losing majority status (Joyce
Howard Price; July 21, 2004, WASHINGTON TIMES) The United States will
lose its historic status as a majority-Protestant nation as early as
this year, according to a national survey released yesterday..
Between 1993 and 2002, the proportion of Americans who said they were
Protestants fell from 63 percent to 52 percent after decades of
stability, according to the study released by the National Opinion
Research Center at the University of Chicago...  The number of
Americans who said they had no religion rose from 9 percent in 1993 to
14 percent in 2002..  Frank Newport, editor in chief of the Gallup
Poll, which tracks religious affiliation, said yesterday that in his
group's survey, "the percentage who say they are Protestant is getting
close to the 50 percent level. It was 51 percent in 2003."  As
recently as 1996 or 1997, the proportion of Protestants was 58
percent, he said.

=======================

Orthodoc

[augustin717]

Protestantism causes alienation from Russian culture?

The protestants in that video seemed very Russian to me (women wearing headscarves, etc).

Anyway, who hasn't met the American Orthodox convert who grows a long beard and believes that Russias salvation lies in its restoration of the Tsar?

Well, a total alienation is impossible as long as the majority stays Orthodox and the sectarians recruit theirs from the said majority.
But Protestantism still causes a major alienation from the Russian or whatever other traditionally Orthodox culture.
From my observations I've noticed that this is especially true for the younger generations. I've seen quite a few Romanians turned Protestant that although living in Romania had something about them that was really exotic, western in a very pop way.
I would never give these people any legal opportunity to proselytize only to turn others in amnesiacs like them. I don't really care how many Bible verses they know or what a "wonderful personal relationship with Jesus" they have. It makes no difference.

[NorthernPines]

So is proselyzing.  Why don't you find that shocking?

Do you find it equaling shocking that the Orthodox proselytize in predominantly Catholic countries?

 You are talking about an event that took place over a thousand years ago when all the peasants were illerate and looked to the Czar as their father.

I look to it because if it is in fact an accepted teaching of the Church that forced conversions is in fact a "Christian teaching", then I admit I would have serious issues with that.

 Many pagans and Christians were forced to convert to Islam after its creation in the middle east. Why aren't your missionaries going over to places like Iran, Saudia Arabia, and Iraq to convert or reconvert the Moselms back to Christianity?

I don't know why OUR missionaries aren't doing that...you tell me! (BTW Protestant missionaries DO go to Muslim countries, but that's besides the point since I'm not a Protestant)

 Where were your missionaries during the 70+ years of persecution in Russia, Ukraine, and other eastern European countries that suffered for their faith so much.  Instead, contrary the teachings of St Paul you are proseltyzing by BUILDING ON ANOTHERS WEAKENED FOUNDATION!  That's what I find shocking.  The Russian/Ukrainians etc.  knew about Jesus and were praying to him long before your Protestant denominations were in existence.  Yet you try and bring the Bible to people who belong to the Christian denominatian that gave you that very Bible!  That's what I find shocking.

LOL! You're barking up the wrong tree. It's funny, I'm challenged by the moderator that I'm jumping to conclusions about people's post, and I admit that I indeed may very well be doing that. And I tried to keep an open mind waiting for someone to clarify what they meant. and all I see are continued posts "rationalizing" religious suppression of "heretics" (comparing Protestants with Arians etc) And yet I do understand this is a sensitive issue for many Orthodox and so I try to admit I may very well be jumping the gun here.

And then, here you are saying things about me that simply aren't true. You assume I'm a Protestant.  Why is that when my profile clearly says I'm Orthodox and a member of the GOA? Do you feel it's somehow "un-Orthodox" to disagree with the Church doing (1000 years ago) what I feel are un-Christian things? Do you find it bizarre or un-Orthodox that I'd find suppressing another religion as wrong, even though it's my Church that is doing it? I DON'T agree with Protestants attempting to sheep steal in Russia or from other Churches, that doesn't mean I think suppression (even through "legal" means) is the proper reaction.

You brought up how Muslims forced converted and how that is very disagreeable. Indeed it is. But I personally see ALL forced conversions as being wrong. I don't think because "I'm on the winning team" that it's ok for us to force people to convert, but it's not ok for anyone else to do it. Your point about all the illiterate pagans could most certainly apply to the period of the rise of Islam as well, and I'm sure Muslim apologists would also in fact use that identical argument towards Christians.

EVERYONE thinks that. Everyone wants to feel like they are part of God's select little group of people and that God then empowers them to go forth and impose His will upon everyone else. (He does this through this select group of course) Maybe we should be more concerned with OUR own house rather than the what everyone else is doing. If we're losing people to Protestantism it's probably because we aren't doing something right. "Sheep stealing" is a nice label, and indeed that does happen in some cases, but I've a feeling a lot of people are lost to Orthodoxy not because of some deceptive practice used by Protestants, but because our Church isn't doing a very good job of helping people in their lives. And they feel like Protestantism offers them something in that regard that they feel Orthodoxy doesn't offer. Now I certainly believe it is certainly there in it's fullest in our faith, but we have such a rich and full Tradition that sometimes the little, practical every day stuff tends to get lost to the general population of Orthodox laity. And so suppressing protestants (or anyone else) is only treating the symptom, while the cause of the sickness remains.

You disagree, that's fine. And I'll leave it at that.

In Peace, NP

[PeterTheAleut]

LOL! You're barking up the wrong tree. It's funny, I'm challenged by the moderator that I'm jumping to conclusions about people's post, and I admit that I indeed may very well be doing that.

Important Correction:  Though I am a moderator, except when I type in bold green font like this, I am speaking merely as another poster and want to be understood as such.  So please don't attribute what I type to "the moderator" unless I use the bold green font to speak as a moderator.

[PeterTheAleut]

So is proselyzing.  Why don't you find that shocking?

Do you find it equaling shocking that the Orthodox proselytize in predominantly Catholic countries?

 You are talking about an event that took place over a thousand years ago when all the peasants were illerate and looked to the Czar as their father.

I look to it because if it is in fact an accepted teaching of the Church that forced conversions is in fact a "Christian teaching", then I admit I would have serious issues with that.

 Many pagans and Christians were forced to convert to Islam after its creation in the middle east. Why aren't your missionaries going over to places like Iran, Saudia Arabia, and Iraq to convert or reconvert the Moselms back to Christianity?

I don't know why OUR missionaries aren't doing that...you tell me! (BTW Protestant missionaries DO go to Muslim countries, but that's besides the point since I'm not a Protestant)

 Where were your missionaries during the 70+ years of persecution in Russia, Ukraine, and other eastern European countries that suffered for their faith so much.  Instead, contrary the teachings of St Paul you are proseltyzing by BUILDING ON ANOTHERS WEAKENED FOUNDATION!  That's what I find shocking.  The Russian/Ukrainians etc.  knew about Jesus and were praying to him long before your Protestant denominations were in existence.  Yet you try and bring the Bible to people who belong to the Christian denominatian that gave you that very Bible!  That's what I find shocking.

LOL! You're barking up the wrong tree. It's funny, I'm challenged by the moderator that I'm jumping to conclusions about people's post, and I admit that I indeed may very well be doing that. And I tried to keep an open mind waiting for someone to clarify what they meant. and all I see are continued posts "rationalizing" religious suppression of "heretics" (comparing Protestants with Arians etc) And yet I do understand this is a sensitive issue for many Orthodox and so I try to admit I may very well be jumping the gun here.

And then, here you are saying things about me that simply aren't true. You assume I'm a Protestant.  Why is that when my profile clearly says I'm Orthodox and a member of the GOA? Do you feel it's somehow "un-Orthodox" to disagree with the Church doing (1000 years ago) what I feel are un-Christian things? Do you find it bizarre or un-Orthodox that I'd find suppressing another religion as wrong, even though it's my Church that is doing it? I DON'T agree with Protestants attempting to sheep steal in Russia or from other Churches, that doesn't mean I think suppression (even through "legal" means) is the proper reaction.

You brought up how Muslims forced converted and how that is very disagreeable. Indeed it is. But I personally see ALL forced conversions as being wrong. I don't think because "I'm on the winning team" that it's ok for us to force people to convert, but it's not ok for anyone else to do it. Your point about all the illiterate pagans could most certainly apply to the period of the rise of Islam as well, and I'm sure Muslim apologists would also in fact use that identical argument towards Christians.

EVERYONE thinks that. Everyone wants to feel like they are part of God's select little group of people and that God then empowers them to go forth and impose His will upon everyone else. (He does this through this select group of course) Maybe we should be more concerned with OUR own house rather than the what everyone else is doing. If we're losing people to Protestantism it's probably because we aren't doing something right. "Sheep stealing" is a nice label, and indeed that does happen in some cases, but I've a feeling a lot of people are lost to Orthodoxy not because of some deceptive practice used by Protestants, but because our Church isn't doing a very good job of helping people in their lives. And they feel like Protestantism offers them something in that regard that they feel Orthodoxy doesn't offer. Now I certainly believe it is certainly there in it's fullest in our faith, but we have such a rich and full Tradition that sometimes the little, practical every day stuff tends to get lost to the general population of Orthodox laity. And so suppressing protestants (or anyone else) is only treating the symptom, while the cause of the sickness remains.

You disagree, that's fine. And I'll leave it at that.

In Peace, NP

If your friend were to get the snot beat out of him by a pack of robbers, would you put him back out in the world before he's healed from his injuries, encourage him to stand strong against his enemies, and blame him for his weakness when he fails, or would you treat his wounds and keep him in your home to protect him while he recovers?

[Orthodoc]

If your friend were to get the snot beat out of him by a pack of robbers, would you put him back out in the world before he's healed from his injuries, encourage him to stand strong against his enemies, and blame him for his weakness when he fails, or would you treat his wounds and keep him in your home to protect him while he recovers?[/quote]

Exactly!  That's the point I've been trying to make.

Northern Pines:  Listing yourself as Orthodox doesn't necessarily make it so.  You certainly don't present yourself as one in your defense of Protestant proseltyzing.  And your lack of comprehension of the slavic Orthodox ethos leaves a lot to be desired.  I am addressing and replying to what you write not what you what you list yourself as. Which, in my opinion,  is anything but Orthodox.
Also, my replies are addressed to all those in this thread who are trying to defend Protestant proseltyzing in an Orthodox country.  Not only you.

Orthodoc

P.S.  If you are indeed Orthodox, care to comment on St Paul's preaching against proseltyzing?

[NorthernPines]

If your friend were to get the snot beat out of him by a pack of robbers, would you put him back out in the world before he's healed from his injuries, encourage him to stand strong against his enemies, and blame him for his weakness when he fails, or would you treat his wounds and keep him in your home to protect him while he recovers?

But, in this case, aren't the non-Orthodox the ones "getting the snot beat out of them here"? No, it's not a 1 to 1 comparison, and I do mourn for the suffering that the Church went through during Communism.

I understand what you're saying about the Church in Russia being persecuted for 70 years. The Church should be protected in Russia of course, but not by suppressing others. How is that any different than just doing to others what was done to them, albeit at a much more mild (thus far) level? There are other and better means of protecting Orthodoxy IMO. The Church can be the Church, and be given time to heal, and it should, while at the same time NOT taking away the rights of others.

That's just my opinion...

I do apologize as well for confusing your moderator status with your personal posts. It was a mistake, and I'll learn from it. thanks...

[simplygermain]

^

care to comment on St Paul's preaching against proseltyzing?

Well?

[NorthernPines]

Northern Pines:  Listing yourself as Orthodox doesn't necessarily make it so.  You certainly don't present yourself as one in your defense of Protestant proseltyzing.

I have not defended Protestant proselytizing. Isn't it possible you're reading things into my posts based on your assumptions and disagreement with Protestants in Russia? Isn't it possible that because I don't support the Church's position that you're also assuming I must automatically be taking the opposite point of view when in  reality I said I was against sheep stealing by Protestants. I just also happen to be against suppressing other Christians whom we personally disagree with. It is possible to be against both things same time and that there are not simply "2 sides" on this issue, but a vast array of possible opinions?

 And your lack of comprehension of the slavic Orthodox ethos leaves a lot to be desired.

Which parts of the Slavic Orthodox ethos do I need to comprehend better?

 I am addressing and replying to what you write not what you what you list yourself as. Which, in my opinion,  is anything but Orthodox.

Which parts of my posts here in this thread have been un-Orthodox? Where have I said something that is not in line with Orthodox dogma and theology accepted by the Church universal? (ie: all EOy) I would very much like specifics. Feel free to list sources, documents, and articles that I can reference and accepted as Ecumenically binding by the entire Church.  If I'm not being Orthodox in something I've said I'd like to know.

Now if you mean I'm not being "culturally Orthodox" then yeah, I'll agree with that. Nor am I being "slavic", and again, I'll agree with that. But to accuse me of not being Orthodox because I question the Church on an issue that I believe to be a human rights issue is a bit of a stretch.

P.S.  If you are indeed Orthodox, care to comment on St Paul's preaching against proseltyzing?

Not really, for 2 reasons: 1, because you haven't bothered to address my question about Orthodox proselytizing in predominantly Catholic countries. (or Protestant countries for that matter) 2. because I already said I'm against Protestants using deceptive tactics, sheep stealing etc. So there isn't anything for me to disagree with as far as Paul's writings go.  


The vast irony in all this is that even though I'm in the GOAA (would you like the name of my parish, my priest, and other priests I know, just to "prove" to you I'm Orthodox?) I firmly believe the OCA has the most legitimate claim to being the North American Church because it was here first via the Russian missionaries.

The Second irony is that my priest is not Greek but Romanian, his family fled from the Communists when they came for his father (a priest too) in the middle of the night in the 1970's...they fled to Sweden, then Canada, then eventually came to the states. So I'm personally familiar with a family who witnessed Communism first hand. My priest's mother was beaten by the secret police dozens of times while she was pregnant...and she's now dying prematurely because of those beatings. And yet, none of this makes me feel the Church should get a "pass" when it comes to treating people with honor and respect, the same rights that we'd want to have if the shoe were on the other foot. Which it has been, and will be again I'm sure.

[NorthernPines]

^

care to comment on St Paul's preaching against proseltyzing?

Well?

Just finished typing a reply to this, but it will probably disappoint you.

[simplygermain]

"At this point, the thread took a turn for the worst. Old Roscoe and Lightnin' hadn't caught up to Northern Pines yet, and he felt he had to do something drastic to lose them! Well wouldn't you know it, Daisy pulled up right beside him, driving faster than a clairvoyant chicken fixin' for to be supper, and said...."


Orthodoc, You don't have a leg to stand on.

But as far as the whole protection of the church thing goes, don't they have to be in the church, not just a certain ethnicity to be protected by the church anyway? Or is it because the Church works with the State that Russia as a whole feels they need to protect the people in general from these HERETICS!!!?

[simplygermain]

Just finished typing a reply to this, but it will probably disappoint you.
[/quote]

^^ I nominate this for the POST OF THE YEAR!!!

[podkarpatska]

Being an American of Slavic heritage, I concur with NP. Two things to say - I know the GOAA priest of whom you speak, and he is a fine and compassionate man.  Second, for our modern 'conservative' friends, you may not realize it, but the argument about the friend being beaten up sounds like it could equally be an apologia for affirmative action! Let us stop arguing and pray that our Church be resolute in her teachings, strong in her example of Christian mercy and compassion and be led by clergy and monastics possessed of a strong heart, character,wisdom, charity and love.

[PeterTheAleut]

Being an American of Slavic heritage, I concur with NP. Two things to say - I know the GOAA priest of whom you speak, and he is a fine and compassionate man.  Second, for our modern 'conservative' friends, you may not realize it, but the argument about the friend being beaten up sounds like it could equally be an apologia for affirmative action!

I don't understand.   Could you please explain what you mean?

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