Cincinnati Enquirer Karen Vance April 8, 2007
Orthodox Christianity growing swiftly in U.S.
Johnothon and Theresa Sauer usually don’t celebrate Easter on the same day as their extended families and neighbors.
Today is an exception. Raised Roman Catholic, the Mason couple and their children attend Christ the Savior-Holy Spirit Orthodox Church in Norwood. They are members of one of the fastest-growing Christian denominations in the United States – Orthodox Christianity – whose growth is fueled by American converts to the faith.
Known for its roots in Eastern Europe and Asia, the Orthodox Christian Church rarely celebrates Pascha, or Easter, on the same day as western churches. This year, the two religious calendars coincide to make the holy day unified.
The Sauers’ worship service, known as the Divine Liturgy, follows practices dating to the earliest Christians. The service is often credited with attracting American converts.
“People are looking for a church that is traditional for worship, traditional in values, traditional in morals,” said Mark Maymon, a convert and bishop of the Toledo-based Antiochian Orthodox Church’s Diocese of the Midwest. “We are not altered by fads and whims and trends. We are committed to worship, which is the work of the people.”
Nationally, entire congregations are joining the Orthodox ranks:
In Indianapolis, a former evangelical Christian church joined the Orthodox Church in America in 2002, becoming St. John the Forerunner Orthodox Church.
In Warrenton, Va., a former Charismatic Episcopal Church converted in March to join the Antiochian Orthodox Church.
. . . more
