www.byzcath.org Forums General Discussions Town Hall Hello

My name is Matthew, I'm new to the boards and just wanted to introduce myself.

I am a Roman Catholic, though I usually don't use that term, I simply say Catholic. I am very interested in eastern Catholicism and by extension, Orthodox churches.

I love the beauty of the churches ( buildings ) and the mass of the latin rite, however, I've noticed more of the buildings becoming 'plain' and more of the thought becomeing, in my opinion, diluted by protestant thinking.

I've never been to an eastern church, they are so few and far between, but do plan on visiting one. The beauty and mysticism is very attractive to me. Eastern paintings and architecture is very beautiful and having read some of the prayers, they are also very beautiful.

I've come here to learn, to ask, and when possible to answer.

So anyway, hello.

Dear Matthew,

Christ is risen!

Welcome!

I'm a Roman Catholic too. I love the Eastern Churches. I find spiritual energy in icons, the monastic influence and mystical tone of the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom .

God bless you as you journey to the East.

Paul

Hi Matthew,

Another RC here , welcoming you to the Board.

I can echo Paul here in what he admires in the East -

but I'll go one stage further and say I'm hooked . If only I could get to an Eastern Church more easily I'd be landed too

Anhelyna

Christos Voskrese!

Hi, Matthew!

Welcome aboard! I see you are from Kansas City... if that's Kansas City Missouri, you're in luck! There's a Byzantine Catholic (Ruthenian) parish in Sugar Creek, MO, which I understand is very nearby. Here's a link...

http://www.greekisgreek.net/StLukes/index.html

Your attendance at the Divine Liturgy at this parish does fulfill your Sunday obligation, and, as a Catholic, you are welcome and encouraged to participate in the Eucharist if you attend.

If your home is Kansas City Kansas, I fear you may have a bit of a drive! Perhaps another member can point you to a nearby parish.

Whatever the case, welcome to our little community!

a pilgrim

Thought I'd add one more to the list of Eastern-inclined Roman Catholics welcoming you to the boards. :p Jump in - the water's great!

CatholicMatthew,

Good luck on your journey.

... from another RC attending EC liturgy named Matthew. The Ukrainian Catholic Church has done great things for me, spiritually, that the Roman never did.

Yes, that is the church I am planning on visiting. It is about half hour from where I live. One of my children is in sunday school for about another month, then we'll go visit. I am excited and nervous. It is a tiny parish and so we'll be noticed.

Matthew,

St. Elias Church in Toronto has a fabulous website regarding the Eastern Churches, including this easy-to-read "Survival Guide"...

http://www.saintelias.com/EtiquetteKK/EtiquetteKK_elia.html

Lots o' good info that might help you ease into your first visit!

I've no firsthand knowledge of St. Luke's but, based on their website, it does look like a rather small parish... you will be noticed, my friend! But, hey, that's a good thing, right?

You might want to think about giving Father a call before your visit to let him know you and your family will be coming - especially if you plan on partaking of the Eucharist.

a pilgrim

Glory to Jesus Christ!

Welcome Matthew, God bless you and all those who post here!

Michael

Micheal I just read your location. That is cute, about the way we all feel from time to time. :p

Well welcome Catholic Matthew and all the others that I have failed to say hi to, and welcome aborad...

Lots of good stuff to learn on here, from these people who have taught me how to love the Lord in many ways.

There is a neat search engine on here at the top, just plug in your word if you can't wait for everyone to respond and you will usually get lots of good discussions. But, be patient and I can assure you wil get your questions answered, there is never a lack for words on here.

Pani Rose