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Sunday, April 13, 2025

Nicholas Damascus

As an infant, I was baptized as an Eastern Orthodox Christian. However, I would say that becoming a Christian is a work in progress, and I often wonder would there be enough evidence to convict me of becoming a Christian. The Orthodox Church is the ancient Church that Christ and the Apostles established. It is not a religion but rather a way of life. It is not about rules and regulations but rather guide posts to make choices to transition to what we were designed to become. Becoming Orthodox is not a conversion but more so a transformation of self. It’s not about being right: it is about “right being.” In John 14:6, Christ says I am the Way (to love and serve one another), the Truth (there is only one reality), and the Life (that life source is love). I invite you to submit any topics or questions to “Ask An Eastern Orthodox Christian” on the website. Join me in finding our way back home to the original teachings of the Church. When you change the way you look at things, things change the way they look.

Ask an Eastern Orthodox Christian: What do you teach about free will?

Orthodoxy, which is the unchanged original teaching of Christ and the apostles, doesn't teach free will, it is free will. In the Eastern Orthodox Church (EOC) we are guided, not controlled. We are influenced, not told. We are illumined, transformed, and strengthened by our faith and not extinguished by doubt.

Ask An Orthodox Christian: What’s your favorite Eastern Orthodox Tradition?

Traditions define who we are, what we do, and what we are a part of. They are like pieces of mosaic stain glass icon, unique individual manifestations, yet all forming and contributing to the whole picture.

Ask An Orthodox Christian: Who forces nonbelievers to disbelieve?

I believe the simplest answer to your question would be that no one forces a non-believer to do anything unless the non-believer gives their permission.

Ask An Orthodox Christian: Why do you stand during worship?

The traditional or customary way is to stand through the whole church service. Some Eastern Orthodox Church jurisdictions have pews and others don't.

Ask An Eastern Orthodox Christian: Can you explain your church calendar?

Within the Eastern Orthodox Church feast days and fast days are determined by two distinct calendars: the Julian calendar, and the Gregorian calendar.

Ask An Eastern Orthodox Christian: Why do you stand during services?

To be more specific, for Eastern Orthodox Christians, the Orthodox Church that they enter is the same as being in the presence of the Ark of the Covenant or the presence of Christ on Mount Tabor where Moses removed his sandals standing on hallowed ground in the presence of God.

Eastern Orthodox Churches in the area

The Eastern Orthodox Church Nearest Locations                      Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, Spokane        Christ the Savior Antiochian Orthodox Church, Spokane Valley   Saint John the...

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