[wagglebee]

You would be correct.

Last month's death of John Paul II prompted me to read a great deal about Cardinal Arinze of Nigeria. He converted from animism at a young age and devoted his life to Christ. Many people from nearby villages in Nigeria travel several hours each way every Sunday to attend mass, which I find remarkable since many Americans I know (of ALL denominations) will routinely skip services for any number of insignificant reasons.

What amazes me is that Arinze is typical of African Christians in their passion for a relationship with the Lord. Perhaps it is true that we Americans have so many material comforts that our lifestyles can minimize our desire for Christ, unless we continue to seek a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.

[Huber]

What amazes me is that Arinze is typical of African Christians in their passion for a relationship with the Lord. Perhaps it is true that we Americans have so many material comforts that our lifestyles can minimize our desire for Christ, unless we continue to seek a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.

Yes, but it's easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle!

[Kolokotronis]

On a number of occasions over the years my parish has been visited by Orthodox African seminarians and deacons from our seminary when the Metropolitan visits or on their own. The deacons are fabulous homilists and all of them are fervent and joyful Christians. We've also had priests from Uganda and Ghana visit when in the States. The stories they tell of the parishes there and their evangelization, the videos they show of the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostomos chanted in the local languages to Byzantine tones are inspiring to say the least. But you know what sticks with me the most is how very very Christian Orthodox their mindsets are...and their joyfulness in Christ.

You're right, W, we're self-centered, materialistic blocks of stone compared to them and they have really "nothing" but the pearl of great price of their Faith.