Are you an Orthodox Christian?

Question

Can people actually convert to Orthodoxy? Are most Orthodox, like most Catholics, more liberal than most evangelicals and Protestants? Are most Orthodox pretty devout?

Answer 1

Yes - you can convert to Orthodoxy. There are several jurisdictions to choose from mostly drawn along ethnic lines (i.e. Greek, Russian, etc.), though the Antiochian Orthodox jurisdiction seems to be the most ethnically diverse, followed closely by the Orthodox Church in America. Conversion is achieved by reception into the Orthodox church by way of Chrismation (being anointed with holy oil), the Roman Catholic equivalent of which is Confirmation, though the ceremonies are worlds apart. You can expect to have to learn a lot before being allowed to convert as the learning curve for Evangelical Christians is extremely steep, less so for those with a catholic background, but still fairly steep.

Orthodox are in a weird theological place. First, they are very conservative with regard to theology and practice, but without the fundamentalism and nasty rhetoric that marks Evangelical and Protestant sects. Their theology is marked by an adherence to the teachings of the early Church Fathers and the Seven Ecumenical Councils (you can look this up on Wikipedia or the Orthodox Wiki at www.orthodoxwiki.org). However, there is a great deal of mysticism in Orthodox faith as well including the concept of Theosis (deification). You can also look forward to long Church services (normally 1 1/2 hours, on feast days up to 5 hours), and say goodbye to organs (in most places) and church bands, because in Orthodoxy there are none (as it should be everywhere).

Devotional practice in Orthodoxy is strict. Devout Orthodox fast from meat, fish, eggs and dairy for close to five months out of the year, and are often also asked to abstain from wine and olive oil (for an example - take a look at the Orthodox calendar on the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese website - see sources below). Most Orthodox who are cradle Orthodox are not very devout. Converts tend to be the most devout and knowledgeable members of a Parish (in my opinion).

I'm not trying to be negative, just informing you that becoming Orthodox is a huge commitment of time and energy. It's a great theology, and a great practice. If I weren't gay - I'd be a member of an Orthodox church. Unfortunately evangelical fundamentalism has duped the Holy Orthodox Church.

The best next step for you is to go visit an Orthodox parish (you will not be allowed to receive communion). Talk to the Priest and he will help you.

Answer 2

They're just like everyone else. There are no liberals, that's for certain. Liberals in Orthodoxy last about as long as a snowflake in Phoenix.

Answer 3

i'm not orthodox i didnt comprehend they rejoice christmas at a diverse date. smart tho, because each of the after christmas sales are happening and they could get presents more most cost effective. merry christmas

Answer 4

No

Answer 5

is it true that they eat their children?

Answer 6

NO.