I’ve enjoyed reading this thread - particularly in
regards to the Orthodox Church, which I knew far less
about than the Roman Church where I grew up before
becoming a believer.
This thread spurred me to do a bit of reading up
on the Orthodox Church. In doing so, I was asking
myself if I felt comfortable in a Biblical sense
with what I found. In many ways, the answer is
yes. There are a few sticking points.
As an example:
One thing that stood out was the emphasis given
to Mary in the Orthodox service. I found the same
doctrine of perpetual virginity that Rome has.
I’ve searched a bit to try to learn on what
basis both churches teach this concept.
Can either side here comment in particular as
to where in the Bible you find support for
this doctrine - or if it is based on tradition
alone?
I’ll be candid...
I can see some rationale for coming to a different
conclusion on the verses that seem to imply evidence
Mary was not perpetually a virgin.
Even if that is swallowed, without some Biblical
support to affirm the claim of perpetual virginity,
it seems to remain an argument from silence - yet
elevated in practice and belief to a central doctrine
of the Orthodox church.
Sincere question. Any comments from your traditions
will be thoughtfully received.
Thank you.
ampu
:)
I wonder -- do the lutherans or Anglicans or others have a priest dating service? chuckle!
I am sure there are social and Internet church networks for lonely pastors and pastoresses (?). I used to know a colleague of mine in Japan, and a Presbyterian "lay minister" on occasion, who was looking for a wife on various Christian Internet sites. They are certainly not precluded from dating after their 'ordination.'