Originally posted by jporthodox:
Actually, this is a very eye opening topic from an Orthodox standpoint. I have discussed unity with a number of Greek Orthodox in my church, including a number of converts from the Catholic Church. To be honest with you, there was absolutely no interest at all in unity. Ms. Mathewes-Green really explained it well. In discussing this with my wife, a former Roman Catholic said, she respects the Pope but "why would we want that institution?" Most Orthodox see no need for it whatsoever. On top of that, most Orthodox just don't care about unity and can never see themselves as "Catholics". Orthodox can't why they should unite, Catholics can't see why we should not unite.
This is precisely what I have found.
Most Orthodox are well aware that they share a
common belief across jurisdictional lines with other Orthodox, and quite a few enjoy the occasional holiday when they get a chance to show up in a church of another tradition. There is a sense of community among Orthodox.
There has even been a lot of intermarriage with Roman Catholics. Therefore many Orthodox are well aware of the Roman Catholic liturgical and organizational practices, having witnessed them.
But as far as I can tell most Orthodox have no interest at all in some sort of organic organizational unity involving the Western churches. The way the West is structured there is just no place for it in Orthodox ecclesiology.
The Roman Catholic church would need to change a great deal before most Orthodox would entertain the idea seriously. I just don't see it happening any time soon.
Michael
