Basil 320
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Faith: Eastern Orthodox Christian
Jurisdiction: Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Holy Metropolis of Pittsburgh
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« Reply #2 on: November 12, 2012, 07:55:09 PM » |
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No, Sacraments, or Holy Mysteries, are reserved for only " the devout and Orthodox Christians," as we say liturgically; they must be anointed and imbued with the "Seal and Gift of the Holy Spirit," the Holy Myron or Chrism, and be members of the "Body of Christ," in order to participate. In the Early Church, the Catechumens stood in the Narthex, they were not permitted entry into the Nave of the Church until their baptism. Baptistry's were apart from the Nave of the church. The tradition of the procession around the Baptismal Font is reminiscent of the procession from the Baptismal Chapel to the church. Recall the Litany of the Catechumens, "Ye Catechumens, depart ye Catechumens," following the Liturgy of the Word. And likewise, "The doors, the doors, in wisdom let us be attentive;" closing the doors to ensure that the unbaptized do not enter is what that exclamation refers to, prior to the profession of the "Symbol of Faith," the Creed. This is the situation regardless of the manner of receipt of the convert.
Certainly, the post above recommending counsel from your spiritual father has a good deal of merit. Be patient; patience is a Christian virtue we all need to attain.
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