Tradition and Change

The Orthodox Church was once the force that transformed the world, attracting people from all walks of life to the love of Christ. Today one perceives the Church as an aging institution set in its ways, uninviting and reluctant to solve problems arising from society's change. Here in America, our situation is even more distressing, because our children are leaving the Church feeling alienated. Without their participation and commitment, and with only a trickle of immigration, the Orthodox Church faces a difficult future. The focus of the Church should be on helping people build a relationship with Christ, rather than on religious practice and all the rituals of worship. We must be known as the Church of the Holy Trinity, based on the Cross and the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, the church of Love, Grace and Free Will. When we see the Church falling short of these goals, we have an obligation to criticize it and offer solutions to restore its vitality. This book is an attempt to do just that.