Cyprian, about people's perceptions. Often they are formed by stereotypes usually created by the media. As I understand the purpose of Orthodox Monasticism (and please do correct me if I'm in error) a huge part of it is to be apart from the world. Which kinda makes it hard to start some sort of marketing campaign in the world by Monastics themselves to promote Orthodoxy. Its just not what Monastics do, but at the same time that is a monastics greatest strength they don't interact with the world as the rest of us do and thus when they see wrong in the world they are the ones best suited to point it out.
Sofia, I wanted to comment on something you said. About how in Romania the people are not supposed to pay anything to church (except for out of love), as I understand it most churches there get funding from the government itself, whereas here in America this is illegal (with some minor exception in certain cases) as there is a separation of church and state. That aside funding here in America is very different. I've had Orthodox churches that I've visited once send me letters all the time telling me I should donate 10% of what I make. Looking at the requirements at a church out here it runs $900 in fees just to start to get married (there are more requirements).
Yes I completely agree we should fund our churches but sometimes I think maybe the Roman Catholics had something when they had a council concluded no fee may be charged for any Sacrament. A donation would be a different thing though. Then again this \"law\" lead eventually to papal indulgences. I'd like to hear what other people think of this.
Loannis, I would have a propensity to agree with you. I would describe my love for people of other Christian expressions as loving the sinner not the sin. Now if I would go so far to call them a brother or sister in Christ I don't know, because some of them believe in some screwed up things. I'd prefer to not judge that's God's job. Then again, I'd say Monastics are the best equipped to judge the world, but perhaps not people.
I'd really like to read what the saints say when you post later Sofia. I must profess I'm not really aware of an authoritative all in one book on Orthodox Saints and their teachings. Now that would be cool. Does one exist in Romanian?
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