Thus, what was what was known as “The Great Commission” for followers of Christ: “Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel (good news).”
Ping!
I doubt that most Americans even know what the Eastern Orthodox Churches are. Most Americans know that the Catholic Church is the one with the Pope, and that the other churches are Protestant. But I would guess that that is about as far as their knowledge goes.
Good article.
Save Thy people, O Lord,
and bless Thine inheritance.
Grant victory to Thy Church over her enemies,
and protect Thy people by Thy Holy Cross!
My Antiochian parish began 25 years ago as a Mission with 5 families.
The average Sunday attendance is around 150, drawing folks from six counties in south central Pennsyvlania. There used to be a couple of families in northern Maryland...until they moved into PA specifically to be closer to their church.
Probably 80% of this vibrant congregation are converts. There are around 8 - 10 Chrismations each year. This past Holy Saturday a family of six (thirtyish Mom & Dad and four children) were received by Chrismation and Baptism.
The Priest is a former Lutheran Pastor. The Deacons were former RC and Episcopalian. The congregants include 6 former clergy (three of those Mennonite!) and a former Episcopal novice nun.
As I get around the Archdiocese, however, I am becoming increasingly aware that this congregation is a truly blessed exception. Many of the ethnic congregations are stugling and more than a few are on life support.