First and foremost, Martin is a better source of info and wisdom than I.
Martin is a full Orthodox convert, I am merely what is referred to as a Catechumen - the difference is like the difference between being married and being engaged.
I was not, and never have been an adherent of the Church of Rome. I was a Protestant.
Speaking personally, I immediately felt three things in my first Liturgy and Sunday Coffee Hour (fellowship and food after liturgy, as fully observant Orthodox usually will fast from Midnight Saturday until after receiving Communion):
1. The palpable presence of the Holy Spirit;
2. The people were there to WORSHIP, and they love The Lord; and
3. The people love each other truly and were genuinely happy we were there.
Again, speaking personally, I was drawn to Orthodoxy because for 2000 years the Church has said, “Here’s the truth. It isn’t about you, it’s about God. It’s FOR you, not ABOUT you. You can take it or you can leave it. We’re delivering a message and we’re not going to shape it to suit you. Feel free to drink all you want of this fountain of truth, it never stops flowing. But understand - it doesn’t change. The flavor is always the same.”
I love Orthodoxy. It has re-ignited my faith.
Thank you. I’m reading and taking notes :)