I was replying to your observation, that eventually families lose their attachment to their heritage and simply become American, Canadian, etc.
At present, there are way too many individuals who still speak their native languages, and wish to hold on to their roots, to make this so simple, and cut and dry.
The U.S. is a bit different than most Orthodox nations, in that it is the home for peoples from all over the world, with varied ethnicities, cultures, languages, etc. Most people have come and built churches relying on the support of their various Patriarchs, to which they feel a connection.
Again, I love all the jurisdictions, and have freely visited and prayed in all of the ones in my area....however, I absolutely love my Ukrainian Church....and if someone were tell me I would have to give up anything from that Church, I would not be happy....from the language, services....right down to the bishops who lead us.
Personally, I can't wait for the Pan-Orthodox Lenten Vespers because it gives me a chance to visit all the various churches, witness all their traditions, and participate in their services. I think it's great that there is such variety.
....but, that's just me.
I don't think the system is broken. We are One in Christ and the Eucharist. There's no division. I can go to any canonical Orthodox Church in the U.S. and receive the Holy Sacraments. We ARE one.
Yes, it's against canon law to have multiple bishops, etc. However, tell me one person, or even one Church, that adheres to each and every canonical law. We break them all the time...and hardly skip a beat....in the name of Economia.
Again...I leave this up to the Assembly of Bishops to figure out. I'm certainly not versed well enough in these matters, nor am I able (or willing) to separate myself from my familial heritage to be completely unbiased.
