Dear all:
While it must be said that many of us are converts, lead by a conscience habituated to a longing for the divine or, it may be truly said, by the Finger of God, to the True Faith. We must, each of us, decide within ourselves when our personal, individual quest for a church home is over. Our search for truth and salvation should not end in frequent jurisdictional or even canonical disputes. How many Bishops lay claim to the Orthodox flock in the state where YOU live?
In today's world, we are taught to constantly be on the lookout for the next big thing. This is called sensationalism and it may be harmful to us. Sensationalism and love of novelty leads us to desire and appreciate spledorous diversity, and this even more so when it leads to conflict. I am, myself, just beginning to learn that our Church needs us as much as we need Her.
Consider that jurisdictional disputes and differences, though such things may always exist in some form, should be worked out by our Bishops. The Church is not a democracy. Further, what sort of people might most gladly instigate jurisdictional strife? Communists, schismatics, and papists. Find a home parish and be happy with it. If you wish to engage in any church tourism or survey, discuss it with your priest and GET A BLESSING FIRST.
May God give us a Church without intestine conflict, and make the Eucharist our new and greatest quest.
In Christ:
Joseph the bumkin
