www.byzcath.org Forums Faith & Christian Life Parish Life & Evangelization What is your Church doing to grow?

I recently paid two visits to an Eastern Rite church that shall remain nameless for now. I noticed in there bulletin that they were having a potluck dinner after one of there liturgies, and it was advertised at least a week in advance. Two Sunday's in a row I hung around for awhile afterwards, but not one person bothered to ask me if I'd like to stay. Needless to say I wasen't surprised, because before you can invite someone, you first have to speak to them, and not one person would even say hello.

About 2 years ago I spoke with a member of this parish, and she told me there membership was shrinking every year. Judging by the vast amount of white hair I saw at DL, I'd say that unless they have a few wealthy patrons, 10 years from now they'll be selling there property to Evangelicals or Moslems.

I decided the most Christian thing I can do in these circumstances is to write a letter to the parish's priest and let him know unwelcome I felt at his church.

I agree with Mateusz. We are all responsible for being leaders. Generally speaking, if we're posting on this forum, we certainly have an interest, and probably feel that we are being called.

A few weeks ago, there was a Theosis Weekend held here in Phoenix. It was sponsored by the Melkite Church, but some of us from the Ukrainian and Ruthenian Churches also attended. We are now meeting once a month to continue learning and sharing within our group. The idea is that we learn about theosis, pray together, share our experiences and support one another, so that we can then begin sharing what we have learned with others within and outside our parishes.

When you think about it, the idea has real merit. The abbas, ammas and staretzki, both in times past and still today, are sought out by others because they have been divinized. In our last meeting, we discussed the hallmarks of someone who is living in the Spirit. Most of answers included that such people have a certain serenity and joy. They are concerned less about themselves and more about others. They are actively involved in reaching out to others. St. Maximos said that theory without action is mere fantasy.

We begin revitalizing our parishes by first revitalizing ourselves, then our fellow parishioners and those outside the Church.

Every time I attend the UGCC that I go to. Over 50% of the people come and talk to me before and after the Liturgy (usually in broken English) they ask where we're from, won't we please stay after the Liturgy for the meal, etc...

This is where it's at, this is one of the main reasons I keep going back, they show agape.

being assertive and creative while maintaining our tradition is very important. the ghetto mentality is also a hindrance. i for one love and apreciate the slavic languages however one has to think are many of our parishes too ethnic? the divine liturgies historically have been allowed in vernacular, and most parishes do have a english liturgy but for many it does not take precedence.