Anastasios,
I was under the impression that readers did not have to go as far as deacons and priests when switching churches. This would seem to be in line with the fact that they have less responsibilities/obligations, and that they are treated very differently in the canons. Then again, my understanding is based on very little information (and no actual experience).
Perhaps the best thing would simply be for the reader to ask his bishop what he prefers? Perhaps a reader who is looking to switch churches should contact his priest and bishop and ask them how they would like things "handled" if for no other reason than to avoid scandal? Also, if one were a reader, I'd think that it would be proper for their priest and bishop to hear of their leaving from them, and not from rumors or some post on an internet forum. Even though I'm under the impression that readers are nothing like Deacons or Priests, I'm also under the impression that they aren't anything like laymen either. Again, though, that's only based on the very little information I've read.
I hope the above won't be seen as some type of judgment of this fellow who the controversy is surrounding. I don't know about the situation (or even that there was such a situation until you said so). I'm certainly not trying to say that I know how everyone should act. The above are just my own fallible thoughts, which I wouldn't try applying to someone in order to judge them.
Fr. Seraphim,
Father, Bless
I emphasize bishop not jurisdiction, since the latter is a Latin term that has crept into modern thinking in Orthodoxy. Your bishop represents the church , not a juridictional committee, council etc. But methinks I will be out numbered and taken to task if I try spreading this traditional thought
FWIW, I know a number of people who post at this forum would totally agree with you (including myself).
