Why I Became Orthodox vs Catholic or Protestant

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

​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

​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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.