[newberger]

I am a non-catholic. Not only am I not offended by Catholic practice, creeds, and teaching, I am offended by the condescension involved in watering down your faith.

Back in 1997, on a cruise to Alaska while still an Anglican but exploring Eastern Orthodoxy, I thought it might be helpful to attend the Mass offered daily on board. After the first day, I explained my situation and why I submitted myself for a blessing but not communion (appropriate, I thought). The priest told me to quietly take communion the next day. I did NOT go back!

Now, a committed Orthodox Christian, I pray for my Roman Catholic brethren who are experiencing such chaos and even apostasy. I pray, not in a triumphal way (we surely have our own problems) but as a brother in the struggle.

Please pray for us as well.

[ebb tide]

The priest told me to quietly take communion the next day.

I'm sorry he did that. He was not a good priest.