I'm Thierry, a devoted husband, the blessed father of two wonderful children, and a K-6 public school Special Education Teacher here in Orange County. After years deep in Roman Catholicism and halfway through my catechism program, I took a huge leap and switched to Orthodox Christianity—a move I've never looked back on. Join me as I break down the historical, doctrinal, and personal reasons that nudged me towards becoming Orthodox vs Catholic vs Protestant, and discover why this ancient faith completely won me over.
Rethinking My Spiritual Convictions
Growing up as a baptized Catholic, I believed that the Roman Catholic Church was the real deal, the one true church founded by Jesus Christ through the Apostle Peter. This view was about a direct and unbroken chain from Peter to today's Pope, showcasing the doctrine of papal supremacy in full swing.
But here's where things took a twist. The journey to Orthodoxy kicked off not from my curiosity, but from my wife's staunch refusal to baptize our kids as Catholics. The never-ending stream of child abuse scandals hitting the news was her breaking point. This pushed her to dive into the different meanings and practices across various churches. At that time, I knew zilch about Orthodoxy, thinking it was just a Roman Church offshoot stashed somewhere in Eastern Europe.
When my wife brought up Orthodoxy, I wasn't having any of it. However, our kitchen debates on which church was the "true church" started chipping away at my Catholic armor. The more we dug in, the tougher it became for me to stick with the Catholic Church—a church whose history wasn't just peppered with power-driven crimes but also marked by continuous tweaks to core Christian traditions.
Seeking answers, I turned to church officials, hoping for some solid arguments I could take back to our debates. The best they could do was nod to the past issues and remind me that, at the end of the day, the Catholic Church was the real deal because it was what St Paul and St Peter (first bishop of Rome) who had founded it in union with God. That didn't cut it for me.
My deep dive showed me that Peter didn't just hang his hat in Rome; he actually got the ball rolling with the church of Antioch—which we now call the Antiochian Orthodox Church—way before he ended up in Rome.
This blew my mind and totally flipped my ideas about apostolic succession and the pope’s central role. The Orthodox vibe, stressing that Jesus wanted His church unified by true doctrinal and liturgical vibes rather than centralized power, really resonated with me.
The more I explored, the clearer it became: the Orthodox Church stuck closely to the early Christian traditions, something the Catholic Church had strayed from amid cultural, political, and doctrinal shifts. This wasn't just about keeping up with rituals but about holding onto a comprehensive way of life as the early Church Fathers laid out.
The Orthodox Church, without a centralized figure like the pope, seemed more in line with how the early church was—a bunch of local groups doing their thing but together, not a monolithic power seated in one spot.
Catholic vs Orthodox
Book: Two Paths - Orthodoxy & Catholicism
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Buy Now →A Historical Quest For The "True Church"
As I delved into the history of the Christian Church, each piece of the puzzle seemed to shake my faith in what I had always believed.
1. Unity: The Early Church and The Ecumenical Councils
1. Unity: The Early Church and The Ecumenical Councils
Back in the day, the early Church was all about unity. Christians everywhere were linked by a common faith in the teachings of Jesus, the "Son of God," and adherence to the doctrines laid out in the Holy Scriptures. The apostolic church, led by figures like the Apostle Peter and cemented by ecumenical councils, played a crucial role in unifying these believers. These councils were vital in addressing matters of faith such as the nature of Christ, the virgin birth, and the concept of the Trinity, which were hot topics of the time.
The decisions made at these gatherings weren’t just about ironing out theological kinks; they were about defining a unified practice of worship, highlighted in rituals like the Divine Liturgy. This period set the stage for what many hoped would be eternal life in a seamless, unified Christian community. The councils underscored the importance of good works and maintaining the purity of the gospel message through the ages, a principle that resonates deeply within the Orthodox tradition.
2. The Great Schism: Orthodox vs. Roman Catholic
2. The Great Schism: Orthodox vs. Roman Catholic
Fast forward to 1054 AD, and we hit a major bump in the road—the Great Schism. This was the big breakup that split the Christian world into Eastern Orthodox and Western Roman Catholic branches. One major beef leading to the split was the Filioque controversy, a Latin term meaning "and the Son," which the Western Church added to the Nicene Creed without a unanimous decision, causing a significant rift.
The Orthodox Church argued that this addition not only messed with the original wording agreed upon in the earlier councils but also distorted the established understanding of the Holy Spirit’s origin. Meanwhile, the Roman Church stood by this change, marking a key doctrinal divergence that still echoes today. The issue of papal supremacy, where the Pope claimed ultimate authority over all Christian matters ex cathedra, further fueled the fire, creating a complex relationship that couldn’t easily be mended.
3. Preserving The Faith: Orthodox vs. Roman Catholic
3. Preserving The Faith: Orthodox vs. Roman Catholic
When it comes to keeping the faith, both the Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches have gone to great lengths to preserve their spiritual heritage, but they’ve done so in markedly different ways. The Orthodox Church has stuck closely to the traditions and liturgical practices established in the early days of Christianity, focusing heavily on the continuity of the Divine Liturgy and the teachings of early church fathers like St. Augustine.
The Roman Catholic Church, on the other hand, has introduced several doctrinal developments over the centuries, such as the doctrines of the Immaculate Conception and papal infallibility, which were formalized long after the foundational periods. These adaptations, often ratified in later church councils like the Second Vatican Council, reflect a tradition that embraces both historical roots and evolving interpretations to address new theological and moral questions.
The Orthodox theology celebrates the preservation of ancient Christian practices as a testament to their faith's authenticity and their commitment to upholding the 'true' teachings of the early church. This dedication to maintaining the original doctrines and liturgical rites is seen as essential to living out the true essence of Christianity, contrasting with the more adaptive and sometimes controversial doctrinal evolutions seen in the Roman Catholic approach.
Considering the Protestant Church
As I ventured deeper into my spiritual exploration, I decided it was essential to give the Protestant Church a fair shake, especially given its historical roots and significant departure from Catholic and Orthodox traditions. The Protestant Reformation, sparked by figures like Martin Luther in the 16th century, was fundamentally a revolt against perceived corruptions within the Roman Catholic Church. This movement brought to the forefront the doctrine of sola scriptura—scripture alone—which proposed that the Holy Bible should be the sole authority in guiding the matters of faith and practice.
1. The Allure of Sola Scriptura
1. The Allure of Sola Scriptura
There’s something incredibly appealing about the Protestant approach of sola scriptura. This principle challenged the long-held practices of the Catholic tradition that were supported by papal decrees and church councils, rather than scripture alone. The Protestant emphasis on direct access to the Holy Scriptures democratized religious knowledge, allowing believers to interpret the sacred texts for themselves without the mediation of often politically powerful clergy.
This focus on scripture resonated with me as it sought to strip away the layers of tradition that had accumulated over centuries, which Protestants saw as distorting the original messages of Christianity. However, the more I delved into this perspective, the more I recognized what it lacked—namely, the rich tapestry of traditions that characterized the early church and were still preserved within Orthodox Christianity.
2. Missing the Mark on Historical Continuity
2. Missing the Mark on Historical Continuity
While the idea of basing faith entirely on the scriptures was compelling, I found that the Protestant approach often sidestepped the beauty and depth found in the historical liturgies and rites that have been integral to Christianity since the first century. The Orthodox Church, with its divine liturgy and veneration of the Holy Traditions, maintains a continuity that not only links back to the early apostles but also resonates with the practices described in the early councils and writings of Church Fathers like St. Augustine.
In contrast, many Protestant denominations have minimized or even abandoned traditional practices such as the Eucharist (bread and wine considered the Body and Blood of Christ, a mystical act of grace proceeding from the Father and the Son for the forgiveness of original sin) considered as a mystical and unifying sacrificial act, viewing it instead as merely symbolic. This lack of what I saw as 'holiness'—the sacred traditions that have been carefully preserved in Orthodoxy—made it difficult for me to fully embrace Protestantism. The significant differences in understanding the sacraments, the role of tradition, and the interpretation of scriptures highlighted a disconnect with the ancient church that I couldn't overlook.
3. The Appeal and the Pitfalls
3. The Appeal and the Pitfalls
The Protestant doctrine, with its insistence on the Bible as the sole source of divine truth, offered a clarity and simplicity that was undeniably attractive. Yet, this same simplicity sometimes felt like it stripped away the profound mystical elements that have been pivotal in the practice of the faith since the days of the early church. Protestant Christianity has undoubtedly made great contributions to Christian theology, particularly through its challenge to the Catholic Church during the Reformation and its ongoing commitment to scriptural literacy.
However, as I engaged with this tradition, I realized that what I was seeking was a faith that not only embraced the clear teachings of the Bible but also respected and continued the sacred traditions that have been passed down through the centuries. This journey led me to appreciate the depth of the Orthodox faith, where the divine liturgy, the significance of the Eucharist, and the liturgical life are seen as essential elements that present Christ's sacrifice as a present and eternal reality, ensuring a holistic approach to salvation that profoundly connects with the early Christian church's spirit and practice.
Comparing Core Beliefs: Catholic vs Orthodox vs Protestant
Having delved deeply into Protestantism and concluded that it was not the right fit for me, I turned my attention back to the Catholic and Orthodox Churches. At this juncture, I recognized the need to thoroughly understand the foundational differences between these two branches of Christianity. To truly grasp where I belonged spiritually, it was crucial to explore the key aspects that defined each tradition.
1. Apostolic Succession: Authority Through History
1. Apostolic Succession: Authority Through History
Apostolic succession holds that the authority of the church is passed directly from the apostles to subsequent generations through a continuous line of bishops.
- Orthodox & Catholic: Both traditions firmly uphold apostolic succession, viewing it as crucial for preserving the church’s historical continuity and doctrinal integrity.
- Protestant: Most Protestant denominations do not adhere to the concept of apostolic succession, instead regarding the Bible as the supreme authority, rather than the authority of an unbroken chain of church leaders.
Personal Take: The concept of apostolic succession, particularly the idea of Jesus passing His authority to the apostles through the laying on of hands, is implied rather than explicitly stated in the Bible. However, the practice of laying on of hands as a means of conferring authority is seen in passages such as Acts 6:6, where the apostles lay hands on the seven deacons to delegate ministry responsibilities, and 2 Timothy 1:6, where Paul references rekindling the gift of God in Timothy through the laying on of his hands. These verses underpin the theological basis for apostolic succession, suggesting a biblical tradition of transferring authority and spiritual gifts that supports the continuity and doctrinal integrity of church leadership throughout generations.
2. Papal Supremacy and Infallibility: Authority and Doctrine in Focus
2. Papal Supremacy and Infallibility: Authority and Doctrine in Focus
Papal supremacy and infallibility are doctrines asserting that the Pope holds ultimate authority over the Catholic Church and is incapable of error in matters of faith and morals when speaking ex cathedra (from the chair).
- Catholic: Embraces both papal supremacy and infallibility, positioning the Pope as the ultimate earthly authority for Christians and infallible under specific doctrinal conditions.
- Orthodox: Strongly opposes these concepts, favoring a decentralized ecclesiastical structure where no single individual has supreme control, and maintaining that infallibility belongs only to the entirety of the church, not to any one person.
- Protestant: Generally rejects both doctrines, emphasizing the fallibility of all humans and the authority of Scripture above any church leader.
Personal Take: Studying the doctrines of papal supremacy and infallibility, I found myself drawn to the scriptural model of church governance, which emphasizes decisions made in council rather than by a single leader. Acts 15 vividly illustrates this, where the apostles and elders meet together to address the controversies of their time, reaching a consensus through discussion and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. This collaborative approach to church leadership, evident in the early Church, starkly contrasts with the centralized authority vested in the Pope as per Catholic doctrine. Orthodoxy’s rejection of papal supremacy in favor of decisions made by synods and councils aligns more closely with this biblical example, embodying a democratic and humble approach that I believe truly captures the spirit of the apostolic leadership. This model, which fosters unity and collective responsibility, deeply influenced my affinity towards Orthodoxy.
3. Significance of the Eucharist: Understanding Communion
3. Significance of the Eucharist: Understanding Communion
The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, holds a central place in Christian worship and its interpretation and practice vary widely among different denominations, reflecting deep theological convictions.
- Orthodox & Catholic: Both the Orthodox and Catholic Churches view the Eucharist as a vital sacramental participation in Christ’s body and blood. This sacrament is not merely symbolic but is considered a literal and mystical partaking of Christ, which reaffirms the believer’s union with both Christ and the Church. This view is based on the teachings of Jesus at the Last Supper, where He commanded His disciples to "do this in memory of me," as He broke the bread and shared the wine, declaring them His body and blood.
- Protestant: Protestant interpretations of the Eucharist vary significantly, ranging from seeing it as a purely symbolic act commemorating Jesus’ Last Supper to a spiritual presence where Christ is present in spirit but not in the physical elements. This spectrum reflects the diverse theological underpinnings within Protestantism, from those who adhere closely to scriptural texts to those who incorporate more nuanced spiritual interpretations.
Personal Take: The Orthodox view on the Eucharist deeply resonated with me, emphasizing it as a genuine encounter with Christ, much as the early Church and Scripture describe. Jesus' words, "This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19), and "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life" (John 6:54), highlight its vital, life-giving role. This real presence of Christ in the Eucharist goes beyond mere remembrance, inviting a participatory renewal of His Last Supper. Each service becomes a moment of deep spiritual renewal and intimacy with God, fulfilling Christ's promise of His enduring presence, which profoundly sets Orthodoxy apart and enriches my faith journey.
4. Qualification for the Clergy: Ethical and Spiritual Standards
4. Qualification for the Clergy: Ethical and Spiritual Standards
The criteria for clergy in different Christian traditions reflect their theological and ethical priorities, impacting the spiritual and communal life of the church.
- Orthodox & Catholic: Both the Orthodox and Catholic Churches uphold rigorous moral and spiritual standards for clergy. In the Orthodox tradition, married men may become priests, but bishops are required to be celibate, drawing from a belief that celibacy allows for a more undivided focus on spiritual duties. The Catholic Church requires celibacy for all priests in the Latin rite, emphasizing a life fully dedicated to service.
- Protestant: There is significant variation among Protestant denominations regarding clergy qualifications. Most allow clergy to marry and have families, reflecting a more flexible approach to clerical life that aligns with their emphasis on pastoral care and community engagement.
Personal Take: Orthodoxy’s stance on clergy—allowing married men to become priests but keeping bishops celibate—struck the perfect balance. It acknowledges the need for clergy to connect with their congregations through shared experiences while maintaining a profound commitment to spiritual life at higher levels of church leadership. This practical yet deeply spiritual approach really appealed to me.
5. The Role of Icons: Windows to the Divine
5. The Role of Icons: Windows to the Divine
Icons play a significant and distinctive role in Orthodox Christian worship, serving as more than just religious art but as profound spiritual tools that facilitate a deeper connection with the divine.
- Orthodox: In Orthodox Christianity, icons are not merely decorative; they are considered sacred and serve as windows to the divine, providing a visual medium through which the faithful can venerate the saints and reflect on the spiritual realities they represent. The veneration of icons is an integral part of Orthodox spirituality, believed to bring the believer into a closer communion with the persons depicted, not as idols, but as embodiments of Christ's incarnation and the saints' holy lives.
- Catholic: Catholics also use religious imagery and honor icons, particularly in the Eastern Catholic Churches, which share many traditions with Orthodoxy. In Western Catholicism, icons and statues play a role in personal and liturgical devotion, though typically with less theological emphasis compared to the Orthodox tradition.
- Protestant: Most Protestant denominations are more cautious or even opposed to the use of icons in worship, often due to concerns about idolatry. This stems from a different interpretation of the commandments and a strong focus on the word (Scripture) over visual representations.
Personal Take: Understanding the role of icons in Orthodoxy gave me a new perspective on their use versus the concerns about idolatry. Orthodox tradition respects icons not as objects of worship, but as visual representations of Scripture and tools for veneration. This distinction is crucial. The icons serve to enhance understanding and connection with the holy figures they depict, aligning with biblical teachings by supporting worship directed at God alone, not at the icons themselves. This approach clarifies that the true worship is directed toward God, and icons are merely aids that bring the stories and teachings of the Bible to life in a visual and meaningful way.
This deep dive into the core beliefs of Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Christianity not only confirmed my intuition that Protestantism was not the right fit for me but also sharpened my understanding of how Orthodoxy differs from both Protestantism and Catholicism. While I found significant parallels between Catholic and Orthodox practices, this exploration reinforced my growing conviction that Orthodoxy, with its steadfast commitment to preserving the traditions of the early church, aligns more closely with my own beliefs. For someone like me, who values the continuity and authenticity of ancient Christian practices, Orthodoxy emerged as the clear choice. This journey through history and doctrine didn't just inform me—it transformed my spiritual direction, making my path towards Orthodoxy feel not just right, but inevitable.
Main Concerns with Orthodox Church Practices
As I found myself drawn closer to Orthodoxy, I still struggled with the thought of leaving the Catholic Church. In an attempt to challenge my growing inclination towards Orthodoxy during our heated kitchen debates, I decided to look into the darker aspects of the Orthodox Church. Surely, if the leaders of the Catholic Church had a history of committing numerous crimes, I thought I might uncover similar issues within Orthodoxy that would tilt the scales in favor of staying Catholic.
To my surprise, though, my search for Orthodox 'dirty laundry' didn't turn up much to bolster my arguments. While I did find criticisms and areas where the Orthodox Church could improve, nothing came close to the heavy historical burdens of the Catholic Church, such as the Crusades, the Inquisition, or the long-standing issues of child abuse.
1. Services Are Often Not in English
1. Services Are Often Not in English
It's true that many Orthodox services are conducted in traditional languages, reflecting the church's historical and cultural roots. However, this is changing as more parishes recognize the need to be accessible to their congregations in places like the U.S., where English is the norm. Many Orthodox churches now offer services in English, or at least provide translations, making it easier for everyone to participate fully and understand the liturgy.
2. The Orthodox Church is Too Ritualistic
2. The Orthodox Church is Too Ritualistic
Yes, Orthodoxy is rich in rituals, but there’s a big reason behind it. These aren’t just empty actions; they're deeply symbolic practices that connect us directly to the earliest Christians. The Divine Liturgy and other rites are not about going through the motions; they're about participating in a worship that’s both ancient and alive, bringing the sacred traditions of the past into our present experience.
3. Lack of Flexibility in Doctrines
3. Lack of Flexibility in Doctrines
The Orthodox Church does hold firmly to its doctrinal foundations, which some might see as inflexibility. But in these doctrines, followers find a consistent, unchanging foundation for their faith. This consistency is not about stubbornness; it’s about preserving the core essence of what the church believes and practices, ensuring that these truths aren't swayed by the changing tides of societal opinion or pressures.
4. It’s Not Modern Enough
4. It’s Not Modern Enough
Some say the Orthodox Church is stuck in the past because it resists modernization in favor of tradition. I see this steadfastness as a strength rather than a weakness. In a world that’s constantly chasing the next big thing, there’s something profoundly grounding about practicing a faith that has withstood the test of time. The Church's adherence to ancient wisdom offers a unique perspective that can be especially relevant in today's fast-paced, often superficial culture.
5. Orthodox Churches Are Hard to Find
5. Orthodox Churches Are Hard to Find
Depending on where you live, it might seem like Orthodox churches are few and far between, especially compared to Roman Catholic or Protestant denominations. This can be true, but it also makes attending an Orthodox church more of a committed choice. Many find this effort to seek out and attend services as part of their spiritual journey and commitment. Plus, the growth of online resources and communities has made it easier to connect with Orthodox teachings and practices, even if you're not right down the street from a church.
While investigating the Orthodox Church's criticisms to counterbalance my growing inclination towards it, I found surprisingly few controversies compared to the Catholic Church's historical burdens. The issues I did find—such as linguistic barriers, perceived ritualism, doctrinal rigidity, resistance to modernization, and scarcity of churches—actually highlighted Orthodoxy's deep commitment to preserving sacred traditions and doctrinal integrity. This exploration, far from deterring me, reinforced my appreciation for Orthodoxy's connection to the early Church, strengthening my resolve to pursue a faith rooted in timeless teachings and practices.
The Biblical Foundations of My Conversion
After several months of delving deep into historical research and engaging in intense kitchen debates, I found myself in a profound state of confusion. Despite feeling increasingly drawn to Orthodoxy, I struggled to find the strength to leave the Catholic Church, which had nurtured my connection to God for many years. In search of guidance, I turned to prayer and continued my daily routine of walking our dog while listening to the "Bible in a Year" podcast—a Catholic program that, ironically, provided the clarity I was seeking.
Through this podcast and my ongoing scriptural studies, especially reflections on the Old Testament narratives about the division of the kingdom of Israel, I found striking parallels that resonated deeply with the schisms within Christianity today, particularly between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches. These biblical stories not only enriched my understanding but also guided my spiritual journey toward a decision that felt true to the origins and intentions of early Christian teachings.
1. The Division of Israel: A Biblical Parallel
1. The Division of Israel: A Biblical Parallel
One of the most striking biblical narratives is found in the Books of Kings, where the kingdom of Israel splits into the northern and southern kingdoms after the reign of Solomon. This division resulted from the northern tribes rejecting Solomon’s son Rehoboam as their king, leading to the establishment of a separate kingdom under Jeroboam in the north. The northern kingdom, driven by a thirst for power and independence, eventually strayed from the faith by erecting idols and altering sacred traditions, which were meant to keep them connected to God.
In contrast, the southern kingdom, Judah, largely managed to maintain the religious practices as prescribed in the Mosaic Law, preserving the traditions and the worship of Yahweh in the temple of Jerusalem. This preservation is analogous to the Orthodox Church's efforts to maintain the liturgical and doctrinal purity of early Christianity.
2. Drawing Parallels with the Catholic Church
2. Drawing Parallels with the Catholic Church
I came to view the Roman Catholic Church similarly to the northern kingdom of Israel. Like the northern tribes, the Catholic Church, over the centuries, introduced changes and doctrinal innovations that, in my view, deviated from the early Christian teachings. The doctrine of papal supremacy, much like the establishment of new centers of worship in the northern kingdom, represented a significant shift from the early Christian model of ecclesiastical equality among bishops.
The addition of the Filioque to the Nicene Creed and the doctrines such as the Immaculate Conception and papal infallibility struck me as modern equivalents to the northern kingdom’s idolatry—well-intended perhaps but ultimately leading to a departure from the original teachings and unity of the early Church.
3. Scriptural Endorsement of Unity and Tradition
3. Scriptural Endorsement of Unity and Tradition
The New Testament continually emphasizes the importance of maintaining the traditions handed down from the Apostles. Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, urges the faithful to "stand firm and hold to the traditions that you were taught by us, either by our spoken word or by our letter" (2 Thessalonians 2:15). This directive resonated with me, highlighting the Orthodox Church’s commitment to preserving the practices and beliefs of the early church, which they argue are encapsulated in both Scripture and Holy Tradition.
After months of research and heartfelt debates, the parallels I found in the Bible validated my deep-seated feeling that I had already become Orthodox at heart. Embracing Orthodoxy meant not just adopting a new way of life but potentially facing judgment from my parents and other relatives. Nevertheless, the undeniable pull towards a more authentic connection with God made this change necessary. Little did we know though, that joining St. Luke Orthodox Church would be God's first gift to us as new Orthodox Christians. Here, we were welcomed with open arms by a community that was not just friendly but genuinely supportive, offering us a new family that celebrated our spiritual journey. This warm reception underscored that our decision was a step towards living a faith deeply rooted in the traditions of the earliest Christians, making the transition feel all the more divinely guided and right.
Final Take Away
After diving deep into the histories, doctrines, and personal stories of Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant Christianity, my wife and I found our spiritual home in Orthodoxy. It was not easy for me to call the Deacon of my parish to let him know about my decision to join to the Orthodox Church. But after everything I had learned, I could not turn a blind eye to the facts and continue walking this path. After all, my devotion was not to the church but to the Christ. And as Jack, who led our Catechumen program, once said, "Life is like a forest, and while other paths might get you through, Orthodoxy is the straightest and safest path to the light on the other side." That really stuck with me.
The journey was long, but all doubt I had went away on my Chrismation day when a church member I'd never met before came up to me, congratulated me, and said, "Welcome home." At that moment, I truly felt I had found my place. The tangled historical path from St. Peter to the Antiochian Church I now belong to finally made sense. I had managed to fill all the blank spots in my understanding.
While I haven’t unraveled all the mysteries of our faith—something no one may ever do—I've found peace and joy in my new home. My saint name is Peter, also my middle name, and I feel like St. Peter himself guided me to the Orthodox Church.
If you're feeling lost and stumbled upon this post in search of answers, I invite you to explore Orthodoxy with an open heart. It might just change your life as it has changed mine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Orthodoxy, derived from the Greek words "orthos" (right, correct) and "doxa" (opinion or glory), refers to the branch of Christianity that adheres strictly to the set theological doctrines considered the true faith established by Jesus Christ, the apostles, and the Holy Spirit. Orthodox Christianity places a significant emphasis on following the traditions and teachings passed down through the ages, particularly those affirmed by the ecumenical councils of the early church.
Yes, Orthodox Christians are Catholic in the sense that they believe in the universality of Christ's church and are part of the original church as established by Christ and the apostles. However, they are not Roman Catholic. The main differences lie in theological and liturgical practices as well as ecclesiastical governance. Orthodox Christians do not recognize the papal supremacy of the Roman pope, which is a central element in Roman Catholicism.
Eastern Orthodoxy originated in the Eastern half of the Roman Empire. Unlike the Western Church, which developed into Roman Catholicism, the Eastern Church, influenced by Greek and Eastern traditions, formed the basis of Eastern Orthodoxy. It grew from the same roots as Western Christianity but took a different path after the Great Schism in 1054, primarily over issues of papal authority and doctrinal differences.
The various Orthodox churches, such as the Russian Orthodox Church, Greek Orthodox Church, and others within the Eastern Orthodox communion, are in full communion with each other. This means they share the same faith and sacraments and recognize each other's bishops and clergy. Each church maintains its administrative independence but agrees on matters of doctrine and ecclesiastical policy.
Many Orthodox churches have adopted the Gregorian calendar for fixed feasts. However, for the calculation of Easter and related holy days, most Eastern Orthodox churches still use the Julian calendar. Notable exceptions include the Greek Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Church of Finland, which use the Gregorian calendar for all purposes.
Orthodox Christianity is experiencing growth in various parts of the world, especially in Eastern Europe, Africa, and some regions in the United States. In Africa, the robust missionary efforts and the appeal of the ancient liturgical traditions of the Eastern Orthodox Church have attracted many new adherents.
Yes, in Eastern Orthodoxy, it is common for priests to marry. However, they must marry before they are ordained as priests; those who are already ordained are not permitted to enter into marriage after ordination. Bishops, however, are required to be celibate and are typically chosen from the ranks of the monastic (unmarried) clergy.
Orthodox Christians cross themselves from right to left, opposite to the practice of Roman Catholics and Protestant Christians. They bring their first three fingers (symbolizing the Holy Trinity) together, and the last two fingers (symbolizing the dual nature of Christ) to their palm. They then touch their forehead, their lower chest, their right shoulder, and finally their left shoulder, while reciting prayers that affirm their faith in the Risen Christ.
Gustavo Looby
Những tác phẩm sáng tạo của bạn thật đáng mong chờ, khơi gợi những cảm xúc sâu lắng trong lòng người đọc.
Thierry
Hi Gustavo,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt comment! I'm really touched by your words. It's incredibly rewarding to know that my posts resonate with readers on such a deep level. Sharing my journey and experiences is very personal to me, and it means a lot to hear that it's meaningful to others as well. Thanks for your support and for being part of this community!
Best,
Thierry
Coleman Saddler
Hey! I'm at work browsing your blog from my new iphone 3gs!
Just wanted to say I love reading your blog and look forward to all your posts!
Carry on the outstanding work!
Thierry
Hey there!
Thanks so much for your comment! I'm glad to hear that you enjoy the blog and find it interesting enough to browse even while at work. The post on "Why I Became Orthodox vs Catholic or Protestant" is close to my heart, so it means a lot to know it's resonating with you. I'll definitely keep the posts coming. Thanks again for your support!
Best,
Thierry
Ann
There is nothing in Eastern Orthodoxy that cannot be found in the Catholic Church, they have only taken away from Christ's teachings. Christ gave supremacy to St. Peter as head of all the apostles. Studying the traditional Western Catholic tradition or traditional Eastern Catholic traditions you will find no teaching contrary to Christ's. The Creed dispute is simply a misunderstanding. Every Catholic Church, no matter the Rite, has the same fundamental understanding of the Trinity: https://www.catholicbridge.com/downloads/response-on-the-filioque.pdf I urge you to read this post. As for the abuse, sadly it it is everywhere, in every organization. However, it makes sense that Satin would attack the true Catholic Church foremost, as it is truly Christ's Church He established. Even one of Christ's own disciples betrayed Him.
Please come home.
Κύριε, Ιησού Χριστέ, Υιέ του Θεού, ελέησόν με τον αμαρτωλό!
Thierry
Hi Ann,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and for the link you provided. I understand that you feel strongly about the Catholic tradition, and I truly appreciate your passion for your faith. My journey into Orthodoxy was deeply personal and based on a lot of prayer, study, and reflection. I respect the rich history and tradition of the Catholic Church, but Orthodoxy resonated with me on a spiritual level in ways I hadn’t experienced before.
I know we may not see everything the same way, but I believe it’s important to approach these conversations with love and respect, recognizing that we’re all seeking to follow Christ. I appreciate your invitation and will certainly take a look at the link you shared.
May God bless you on your journey, and thanks again for your thoughtful comment.
In Christ,
Thierry