[bronx2]

The problem with Eastern Orthodoxy (Greek,Russian OCA) is that they are nationalistic enclaves who cater to those of that nationality. This might be changing slightly but the roots of being a nationalistic church remain.

In addition, these Orthodox can't free themselves from the past and blame others for the Rape of Constantinople , 4th Crusade, the Great Schism of 1054 or some other historical catastrophe as if the perpetrators are still living and need to be punished. Their minds are trained to blame others and they feel comfortable as perpetual victims.

Perhaps it is better to worship God as a protestant than to experience this type of siege mentality.

[Cronos]

Eastern Orthodoxy is part of the One Holy Apostolic and Catholic Church. They may have roots of being nationalistic Churches, but that is due to history and it doesn't affect their theology. Yes, some talk a lot about what happened in 1223, but they are NOT trained in the way you suggest -- I respectfully submit that you (just as I once did) extrapolate the behaviour and sayings of some (incidently mostly converts from Protestantism to EO who bring along anti-Catholic baggage) to the many Orthodox.

we can learn a lot from the EO and they from us and the EO are our brothers with whom we all (plus the Orientals and Assyrians) must get back in council with.

[arielguard]

Please forgive me bronx2, but that’s quite the screed against the Orthodox. Concidering that I am a convert to Holy Orthodoxy from a Pentecostal background perhaps I may have some knowledge of the topic of your rant. I came out of the Assemblies of God denomination, and they still welcomed me with open arms. They have not yet asked me to learn Greek, Russian, Arabic...or any other foriegn language. The various crimes against the Orthodox you referred to were not table talk I heard in the church...ever. I read about them in my own study of Christian history. Siege mentality...no, I’m afraid not. I’m sorry, but you are just plain wrong on every point. Are some Orthodox loyal to their national or racial heritages? You bet, and I am equally loyal to my American heritage. I have spent half my life in a uniform as proof. I do not ask them to give up theirs and they don’t ask me to give up mine. Thank you.