Going the distance

[Manalive]

When I discovered ancient Christianity, I immediately felt an affection and deep respect for the Eastern Fathers of the Church; and do feel a great deal more comfortable with them than those Latin Fathers such as Augustine and Jerome. I am in the RCIA program at the local RC parish in my town, and after a lot of soul searching and prayer, I've decided I need to experience an Orthodox service to see if my suspicions are right about the "East". My only problem is that the nearest Orthodox Church is about 100 miles away in Little Rock, AR. Fortunately-- and perhaps with some Divine intervention-- a friend of mine lives in the Capital and is on his own journey toward becoming an Orthodox Christian. I'm going with him to a Liturgy service in three weeks when I visit. The only question I'm having is how do I cope with being such a long distance away from the Church if I decide to join? Most of the time I'm a poor college student and driving that distance every weekend would break me.

Any one have suggestions on how to deal with the distance factor? Also prayers of support would really be helpful. I'm sure some of you sympathize with my Catholic/Orthodox situation.  

[Altar Server]

Where do you live in AR?

[Manalive]

I live in the Southeast corner in the college town of Monticello.

[Alveus Lacuna]

I live in the Southeast corner in the college town of Monticello.

This church is closest in terms of actual miles, but the drive might take longer if it's just small roads versus highways:

http://www.constantine-helen.org/

Sts. Constantine & Helen Orthodox Church
2011 Forsythe Avenue
Monroe, LA 71201

It's 78 miles away from Monticello.

[authio]

You can find a map with a couple of options here, too:
www.orthodoxyinamerica.org

~Authio

[Thankful]

I say go with your friend to the service and don't worry about "tomorrow" (tomorrow has enough trouble of its own).  Do what you believe God is leading you to do, attend an Orthodox service.  IF you decide that the Orthodox church is the one you want to become a part of, then you'll talk with the priest to see what you should do.  Maybe, for example, there are others that live 50 miles away who attend, and you could drive there and then the rest of the way with them. Just one idea. Enjoy your visit to the liturgy!  And welcome to the board.  

BTW, I imagined that the subject matter of your post was going to be along the lines of what our priest has to remind us of often -- "He who endures to the end will be saved."  "Keep going."  That's his consistent advice to us! 

[Manalive]

Thanks for the links, guys. Monroe is actually closer to my location but without the interstate the drive is a bit longer!

Thankful, your words and advise are very wise. I'm really excited about the visit. I am sure everything will work out with the Lord's help! Thanks for the welcome! 

[Alveus Lacuna]

We're glad to have you on the forum. Please come back and share about your first service with us, if you feel comfortable doing so.

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OrthodoxChristianity.net > Moderated Forums > Convert Issues (Moderator: Thomas) > Topic: Going the distance