[Kolokotronis]

"Therefore, the enemy wins again because such hostile perspectives offer little possibility of unbelievers knowing we are Christians by our love."

Without that love, Q, we can't even properly proclaim our Faith. That's how basic it is to our existence as Christians. We Orthodox are reminded of this at every Divine Liturgy just before we recite the Creed, when the priest chants:

"Let us love one another that we may with one mind confess."

And the people chant in reply:

"Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Trinity, one in essence and undivided.", going on thereafter to recite the Creed.

The Greek Fathers speak endlessly on this Love which we are to have for one another. +Maximos the Confessor wrote that those who manifestly love God, first loved their brothers. +John Climacus taught, at Step 30 of the Ladder of Divine Ascent, "Love bestows prophecy; love yields miracles; love is an abyss of illumination; love is a fountain of fire, in the measure that it wells up, it inflames the thirsty soul. Love is the state of angels. Love is the progress of eternity."

Of particular relevance to us here on FR, well, of particular relevance to all Christians actually, is this from a saint through whose intercessions miracles from God have occurred in my own family:

"Love should never be sacrificed for the sake of some dogmatic difference." +Nectarios of Aegina

[Quix]

Marvelously beautiful, Biblical truths from an obviously rich tradition.

Thanks.

[kosta50]

The Greek Fathers speak endlessly on this Love which we are to have for one another

And the NT reminds us that Love is the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.

[Alamo-Girl]

Thank you oh so very much for your beautiful testimony about love and the Orthodox! No wonder so often the church of Philadelphia comes to mind when I'm having a conversation with a member of your confession.