Begin with Yourself, Then the World

{Edited by: The Most Rev. +Joseph Thaddeus (Stanford), OSB, SSJt. }

As long as man has lived he has dreamed of other pastures that are greener. This reflects the folly and weakness of desiring something beyond one's reach. An example is wanting to be a teacher without first being a pupil — expecting to reach the top without first making the effort. Excessive caution comes to those who refuse to take hold of certain things in their own lives, choosing instead to seek escape to some far place beyond their reach. It is not possible to live this life without hopes and dreams; but their realization belongs to tomorrow. Our hopes may revolve around where we hope to be some day; but it is necessary to begin with today. Everyone should realize the hard fact that to arrive at the end of the road one must begin where he or she is. One must first achieve something within oneself in order to then do something good for others. No one can start with the final accomplishment, but must start wherever one happens to be. Only then can you reach out toward whatever goal you seek. You cannot learn how far you can reach without starting within yourself.

Many persons seek to make a place for themselves in this world. Many seek to be like successful, famous persons. How often we hear that one wishes eventually to be like some famous person. This urge some feel is to really achieve something; others are motivated merely by the love of money and reputation; at times it is simply envy. But one must seriously begin with self in order to achieve something notable. One must, however, be able to learn the discipline of fairness and justice. Most important, it must be understood that a person will be only what he can be, never anything beyond that.

Greatness cannot be achieved by imitating others, for it is not possible to take another person's talents, although one may follow another's words and methods. Several persons may play the same masterful piano concerto, but none will present the same rendition. This is because each is a unique individual, using the same notes to create a distinct version of the concerto. The key to our success is to find the talents which lie within ourselves, examining and exhausting our own capabilities. Each individual must try to find such talents within himself: "Do not neglect the talent you have" (1 Tim. 4:14). How to be oneself totally is the only accomplishment any one will ever have — to be whatever you can really be. The ideals, especially of youth, are to make changes for a better world now; to sacrifice one's life for the noble cause of the world. But herein is the danger of the zealot reformer who may forget to begin with himself.

Is not his neighbor around the corner suffering with misery and injustice, needing just as much as those "of the world?" This is pointed out clearly by Christ, Who told His disciples to "stay there" (Jn. 4:40), in Samari; work first in Samari, then go to the far parts of the world. At another time Christ said: "You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye" (Mt. 7:5). Christ exhorts the zealots to do works of justice and help the suffering throughout the world after first doing so in one's own life. While recognizing universal injustices, you must begin with yourself and practice the virtues which eventually become the virtues of people everywhere. One must first look at a neighbor's life to see if there is need for good will, friendship and tolerance before inspecting the furthest parts of the world. Take action in your own life first.

This truth is seen most clearly in the essence of prayer, reflecting the whole meaning of prayer. How easy it is to pray for forgiveness, virtues and the kindling of the fire of the spirit within the soul and heart; how easy it is in prayer to ask people to give of themselves in total devotion to God and to pray that all peoples become moved by Christ. It is also not difficult to pray for all parts of the world. Here, as well, we must begin with ourselves. Prayer must become an intimate part of our lives; when we pray "forgive us our debts" (Mt. 6:12), the words come out so easily. But when we think about our debts, shortcomings and wrongdoings, it no longer is easy. The words of the prayer are not difficult to say, until we remember we are called upon to forgive; then we falter. When we pray for good will for all the peoples of the earth, it is not difficult; the words come easy, until good will is asked of us. It is not easy to let go of long-held harsh feelings and thoughts, overcome prejudices and discard pettiness.

Let's look in another direction. Christ said: "As you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me" (Mt. 25:45). Again, why go to the ends of the world before you have served and helped at your own doorstep, at your neighbor's house, at places you can reach within walking distance, where you can reach out and touch the needy within your own city? Here also, in the quest to serve Christ, one had best begin with oneself, remembering we can see Christ in the things about us when our sight is not diverted to ends of the world. What we achieve close about us can strengthen and quiet our hearts.

Many have dreams of a better world. But why do they not begin in the little world around them? People want a happier life, to experience real joy, to share in laughter. This can come by giving a little gentleness and joy to someone who is nearby and in need of care. If you want a more godly country and a more pious society, begin with self, giving of self before God. You must bring every element within yourself to a level of dignity and place it in the hands of God for the service of the human race. A person who would want to go to the ends of the world with goodness, loyalty and courage to labor for good must first achieve this within one's own mind and heart. Only when this is done can attention be directed to the ends of the world.

FAITH TESTED

There is another perspective to consider. Everyone at one time or another faces the test of faith. Faith remains in the background when everything is well and peaceful, when faith is hardly ever tested, as concern about tomorrow has not yet come. But time seems to quietly change the events of tomorrow, over which we have little control or choice. It then becomes the testing period of our faith. But trouble is not always profitless. Whatever troubles may occur, these events can help prove our faith. The question is: how will it be in our time of testing, when we are almost swamped by troubled waves? What one believes then must become reality, or be proven false. What we may have publicly told others must now be restated to ourselves quietly. In bright and happy days, one says Christ is real and near, as is the love of God. Is this still believed and said when troubled and difficult times come? It is during troubled times that faith must be proved.

It becomes clear in time of testing when values take on a new light, what really matters and what does not, what things are relevant and what are not. All of a sudden, some things do not matter any more; we learn they really did not matter even when we thought they did. They are simply not important, even though they may have brought some passing pleasures. But they are not important as far as life is concerned. It is at these moments of testing that one senses what lies at the root of life and what does not. At these times, things fall into their proper place. We recognize that some things are inherently right, and not because we say so or others have said it.

In times of testing, there is more than quiet proof and new perspective. Thoughts and words repeated over the years take on a more realistic meaning. Some have repeated words from the Bible from youth or phrases spoken by parents. Can these words really bear the burden of life, sustaining one in times of trouble and pain? Can one live by these words? The answer lies in their being truths which are part of one's soul. How often have we recited the Lord's Prayer, the 23rd Psalm and other verses from Scripture?

In the Holy Order of St. Jude Thaddeus, there is a way in which the Lord's Prayer is brought into more fruition for the more serious minded monastic who work with others outside of their Skete, Monastic Community. Sometimes those people with whom they work with have serious psychological and spiritual problems.  So the following is often offered as a means to help them in their struggles.

Our Father...

You Who are in Heaven, the Source of all life and abundance...

Let Your name be hallowed...

Let Your Kingdom come...

Let Your Will be done, here on earth as it is in Heaven.

We thank You for this day...

And Our Spiritual and Material Daily Bread...

We pray Thee, have mercy on us and forgive us our transgressions as we forgive those who have transgressed against us...

Be they who are of the past, those of the present, Those living and those reposed...

Whether it was for right or wrong, real or imagined...

Have Mercy on them, on us, and my unworthy self...

Help us to not to be lead into further temptation, but deliver us from evil...

For Yours is truly the Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory

of Thee +Father, and thy +Son, and thy +Holy Ghost.

Amen! Amen! Amen!

For many there comes a time when these repeated words become rays of light which have made it possible to pass through the darkness of trouble and sorrow. At these times, one realizes these words often are words of truth. They possess a dimension equal to the fullness of life seen in the fullness of God's presence. When one experiences this, one has come a long way. Even though the trouble and darkness persist, one's heart grows steadier.

When trouble engulfs one and such Scriptural words are repeated, suddenly becoming words of truth, one's thoughts become sure and trembling ceases. There is no longer doubt, and one feels the hand of God and understands that the testing time of faith is really a time of blessedness. All of life's elements are involved, not just some things that work together for good: "We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him" (Rom. 8:28). At times life seems fearful, and the future seems too difficult to deal with. It is at these times when one can realize it is really God's hand which we feel, and know all will be well. The most gratifying finding in times of testing of faith is that we are not alone. We may feel isolated in our suffering, yet we are not alone. At times one chooses to be isolated, having to resolve what is to be done, what one is to be, yet one need not be alone. This is the most important thing one can learn as the events of life seen to speed by. so rapidly.

The knowledge that there is not one difficulty which has not been experienced by others should strengthen one's own resolve. One learns that in all situations you can rely upon God and upon friends He has provided to support you. Even when experiencing darkness, facing difficult problems and choices that probe the heart, a beam of light can fall across one's path. One knows there is something that has lifted the heart so that you can and must go on. Most important is the realization that we are not alone. The testing time of faith should be a time of joy and happiness of a soul knowing that He in Whom we believe sustains that which we have committed to God against that day of trail. The question is, why wait for that day? Why not now, at this time, for if it is not true now, it will not be true then. The testing of faith must begin with oneself.

LOOKING AT ONESELF

It can probably be said of everyone that when criticism is leveled at you, it is resented, even though you know you deserve it. Many feel it is their right to criticize others, but to be criticized by others is considered impudent and an invasion of their rights. Anger emerges against critics. When confronted with some of our weaknesses or failings, we usually respond by focusing on our critics' weaknesses. This, of course, settles nothing, and arouses emotions. So many relationships among friends, relatives, husbands and wives have come to anguish and distress because of such foolish reactions. Emotional maturity is required in order to accept criticism as a source of grace. Even more is required when one looks inwardly with honesty, admitting here is the personal failure that lost the battle. It is very difficult to be one's own critic; it is easier to be honest with others than with one's self. It is easy to be indifferent to one's own faults, but difficult to look honestly within oneself, acknowledging faults of our own doing. This attitude discourages improvement and growth.

Self-criticism that rationalizes shortcomings evades stern discipline. It is easy to fabricate excuses, suggesting similar weaknesses by others in the same situation. That is a failure to be honest with oneself or with others. Often one tries to explain differences between others and oneself by suggesting the world is out of step. Many, especially among the young, place fault with their superiors, suggesting that lack of understanding among others has brought on their problems. This shifts blame to the weaknesses of those around us, never on ourselves. Within every person there is the possibility of failing as there is within every person the possibility of surmounting difficulties. We should believe that: "I can do all things in Him (Jesus Christ) who strengthens me" (Phil. 4:13). Without self-criticism, there can be no confidence of progress in one's life.

In business, science, industry — in all fields of endeavor — without self-criticism, there can be no growth, no correcting of mistaken conclusions or practices. But when self-criticism is used, it can lead to great advancement and growth. Honest self-criticism is the only way that one can get a clear vision of oneself. Recognizing our weaknesses and faults brings the knowledge of our potential. It has been claimed that only a small amount of our energies, emotional capabilities, intelligence and spiritual force is used. In viewing ourselves more deeply, the extent to which we must go toward our potential becomes clearer, and we can perceive the path which must be taken to become what God meant us to be. We can let God work through us only if we recognize and acknowledge our weaknesses as well as our strengths. Such honest introspection enables us to put to the advantage and use of those we love and those around us some of the abilities we possess.

JUDGE NOT OTHERS

If we look clearly at ourselves, we can better understand what Christ said: "First take the log out of your own eye, then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother's eye" (Mt. 7:5). By these words, we can look at ourselves as in a mirror and see us as we really are. The mirror comes into focus through this commandment: "Judge not, that you be not judged" (Mt. 7:1). One really knows the answer in one's own mind and heart: too often, what is objectionable in someone else is an innocent mannerism in oneself or one's loved ones; what is bad temper of a neighbor, is only righteous anger when one's temper is aroused; another's stubbornness becomes valid conviction for oneself. These are but a few examples. Apply the words of Christ to not judge others to see where you stand in these situations. For instance, should one condemn another when one does not know? Should one judge when one understands? Does one know all the factors involved? In becoming the judge of others, one may forget that we stand in judgment, as well!

Many people face implications about their humility. Some rebel against circumstances of life before using their resources and possibilities; others rebel against life before making the most of life; some are jealous of the achievements of friends without investing similar effort for their own achievements. These attitudes are common among the young. But have they put in the time, given the energy, contributed in study? This can reflect resentment against those in authority over them, with little concern for the merit of their own recognition and reward! The real test is whether or not we could be content to let our work, our accomplishments speak for themselves! Here is the measure of one's dignity and nobleness. What do we see when we look into the mirror Christ holds before us? More important, what will we do about it?

Another mirror held before us by Christ reflects the verse: "Pray without ceasing" (I Th. 5:17). Although these words do not have to do with one's character, they reach into one's spiritual realm, one's secret life. Prayer is part of the essence of the life one lives. Do people search the secrets of their spiritual strength and energy? Do they know where their moral power comes from? Do they seek it? When people experience times of stress and strain, what do they do? Do they let stressful times of darkness and storm destroy them, or do they seek a power to help them? There are times of sorrow and also times of joy. When these are experienced, do some people turn to God as anything more than an after thought? Do some wait for sorrow or some tragedy that will drive them to God, or do they seek Him, knowing that they will need His strength at all time's? No matter how few minutes are devoted to prayer, they will surely strengthen, comfort and bring peace of the heart and soul in facing everyday challenges and problems.

How can people manage the difficulties they face in life, and what are they willing to do to overcome them? How can they overcome their fears in every facet of everyday living and anxieties which are constant concerns of the heart and mind? These answers cannot be found outside; nor from others. The answer to these problems are to be found within the hearts of people. One must look into the mirror to see what is there. When looking with purpose, searching within for the truth, weighing the wins and losses, we seek to see where God uplifts us, gives strength to our hearts and a meaningful purpose to our everyday living. When we look at ourselves in the mirror, we should not see only our weaknesses, but also our strengths through the grace of God. When we look in the mirror, we should see the whole person, realizing that with God's grace we can manage the difficulties in life and bring peace and joy to our hearts. Here again, one begins with oneself.

WHAT MAKES A PERSON

A great deal of depth, wisdom, sympathy and character goes into making a human being. Our society has desperate need of Christians. American society has great energy, covers more space, deals with more activities within the day and functions with more commissions and committees than any other nation. But the world will not be saved from calamity nor other unhappy experiences just because the people are so energetic. Although knowledge is vast and learning is widespread, it can be of little benefit. The greater our knowledge, the more protection is needed from this knowledge. Our nation of gracious living for most people cannot assume its rightful place in the world on material achievement alone. Although ability is in abundance, there is a lack of character paramount to the human being. How does one mold this "character", and where are the elements to be found? Where do we go, to whom do we turn?

The answer is there. Some will say it is too easy a solution. Some impatiently will say it too pious.

The answer is in Jesus Christ.

It may be pious, but it is not easy, for Christ did not claim an easy approach. Christ did not say that being a Christian would be easy, but that the tasks of life could be met and overcome with His message, His Gospel. The road would not be easy. Obstacles would be encountered, especially the resistance to repentance, though in the end, we are better for it. It was not easy for even the Apostles, who had to face the difficulties of the road they followed, knowing that road would be life threatening.

Many people have thought of the Christian religion as being a negative one. Many of the young characterize it in terms of attending church services, restrictive morals codes, ethical restraints and telling them where they must not go and what they must not do. They see Christianity as an injunction to refrain from evil practices; that goodness means not doing something bad, peace is an absence of war; being virtuous is being without sins. To most of the young this is the totality of religion. But this ignores a Christianity that is positive, decisive and creative in one's life. Christ said: "If you do these things, you shall be my disciples."

There are many "things" that make a person, many decisions and many judgments. For one thing, admit when you are wrong. At times things go wrong and one must admit it. Unfortunately our judgments at times bring grief and misfortunes as we are led astray. It is not easy for most to acknowledge mistakes, even though they were sincere and honest, perhaps caused by hastiness or being ill-informed. It is not easy to admit faults; but this goes into the making of a person.

We must be able to rise above the situation, say that we are sorry and ask for forgiveness. It is hard to ask for forgiveness and admit that others have been hurt. But this difficult honesty has saved many families, many friendships; it is the making of a person. When you find yourself on the wrong path, start over again; to find the right answer, begin again. The Christian religion encourages us to begin again, to start anew. One must find the courage and strength to put ideals into action. It is hard to lift oneself from defeats, bitter experiences and tragedies. Reliance on Christian belief can help one through these constant struggles.

To be Christian is to be able to grow, become strong and act. To have a good life one must have a purpose, a vision; relief from stress and tension; quietness within; time for prayer within the soul. When this is done, one can face life. To be a Christian, then, is to move from saying that something is good to actually doing it; from thinking that something is courageous to being courageous; to think like a Christian and then to be and live like a true Christian. This is not easy, but it is the making of a person. The achieving of Christian norms of living comes from the asking of God's grace to provide the strength and power to reach these goals. This making of a person begins with oneself.

WHAT POSSIBILITIES ARE PRESENT IN TIME OF NEED

It is important to realize that we are what we have decided to be. Every decision goes into making us what we are and what we become. All the opportunities available to us test our resources, and our lives are what we make of all the possibilities before us. Our lives become what we do with the abilities and powers that are within us. One cannot point to achievements as being life, for has a person ever really reached down to all the unused possibilities in life? Many people live on wishful hopes and dreams. How many times have we heard people say, "If only I had the opportunity for this or for that;" "If only I were this person or that, in that position or this?" Some people live from one desire to another. By doing this, one becomes discontented, disappointed and miserable. If we realize that we are what we are, with great possibilities for growth, we can face life and make more of our life.

However, one must realize that he or she has limitations and restrictions, and that there is an end to possibilities. It would be more painless if we recognized that we cannot go beyond our limitations and what lies within us, nor beyond our intellectual potential. We cannot become brilliant or illustrious when we are not. We cannot go beyond our capabilities or talents. If we recognize our limitations, we will recognize our possibilities. One's dreams, ideals and hopes are the measure of one's possibilities, for it is possible to reach as high as your ideals and hopes. At times people have been driven, forced to over-exert themselves to live from this deep source. That is the measure of one's possibilities. Such beautiful moments show the measure of one's possibilities; when we discover a faith we never thought we had, a great courage we did not know we had, or a generosity we did not know was within us — all these make us aware of our possibilities. This points out vividly how far we might go to use our possibilities!

With the necessities of life, our problems become real when we come face to face with them. It is at this time that our possibilities can be of daily help. At one time or another everyone is confronted with trouble and sorrow. No one can avoid sickness, anxiety and eventually death. Whether we overcome these problems or not or fail in our attempt, is a matter of using our inner strength. Some problems, tragedies and heartaches may never come our way. But if we do have to endure them, we shall depend upon these inner strengths to sustain us. It is inevitable that we meet some of these experiences. When the inevitable come, will we succumb, or will we see it through? To see it through we must reach within us for the possibilities that lie deep. For some it depends on using every possible element of faith within them. This is how our potential of inner strength should be used.

At times one is challenged to go beyond the call of duty, confronted with unexpected duties. Some things are expected of us, and must be done. These, however, are not enough. One who does only what is expected of him or her does not rise to spiritual heights. Those who do only their duty are probably living shallow lives. It has been said that people are always smaller then they seem. Christ knows people are always better than they seem. This is seen when people rise above the call of duty through the possible strengths within them. Christ said: "If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles" (Mt. 5:39-42). This is in the realm of a person's possibilities: to do more than is demanded in life, give more freely than conditions demand and be more understanding than justified.

THE WAY ONE OUGHT TO LIVE

Temptations are faced by everyone, and choices which involve one's future cannot be avoided. How are these temptations to be faced? The answer of course is to reach deep within oneself into the possibilities within. All should realize they are better than they think they are, for people have more courage and are more capable of goodness than they suspect. Here lies the secret of dynamic energy and motive power, capabilities and talents which lie within the soul. This is the mystery of truly living life. Many wish they could live this way. This awareness and a willingness to use the possibilities within when the time comes is the key to really living.

How many people waste their lives by not making an effort to use their possibilities, without first beginning with themselves! What a difference it would make to one's family and friends, let alone oneself. With these thoughts and ideals, the learning about and knowing of ourselves, our lives would be richer, for nothing would go to waste. So all must reach deep within themselves to draw from the well of possibilities that lie within each human being on this earth. What a wonderful world would emerge if everyone would live this kind of life. Christ refers to this potential of possibilities within each individual saying: "Nothing will be impossible to you;" "All things are possible to him who believes." St. Paul exhorts: "I know how to abound; in any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and want. I can do all things in him (Christ) who strengthens me" (Mt. 17:20; Mk. 9:23; Ph. 4:13).

This particular article is posted because of some have taken offense to the various Orthodox Catholic Patristic writings and teachings of Holy Orthodoxy (the root and branch of Catholicism itself) that are found at this web site.  These people who have taken offense have called us "Blasphemers" and worse...

It is that these people who have taken offense do not know the root and branch of Christianity itself as they have opted for the easy paths which leads to the gates of hell itself unbeknownst to many of them.  Often times these very same people who take offense are so caught up in their misbegotten ways of understanding Christianity that their own arrogance gets in the way of a true spiritual climb up the ladder of divine ascent that leads to Jesus Christ.  We know of some of these people who belong to the Jehovah's Witnesses, the Mormons (Church of Ladder Day Saints), Church of Christ groups, some who claim they are non-denominational such as Victory Outreach who teach a brand of Christianity wholly devoid of true spiritual growth for an individual who need to learn what it really means to be a spiritual struggler, Pentecostalism is the root and branch of many a cultic out-growth seen in these times. 

Yet, in talking about the Pentecostals, and other so-called churches... we have to admit that their followers are kept in the dark and thus not knowing the root and branch in a more full light, they know no better than those who teach them errant theologies, practices and ideas.  Many of them are very much against anything "Catholic" to begin with.  They do not know the difference between Roman Catholicism and Orthodox Catholicism, believing instead that anything "Catholic" is of the Roman or Vatican "Pope"...

We should provide you with a clearer understanding of what we are talking about by directing you to the following observances and differences in what we are speaking about.

We make no apology for the lengthy articles.  If you believe, you take the time to read and digest within what is said and examine all the data offered. If you are the lazy type of person who fails or refuses to read lengthy articles, then your faith is weak for all true spiritual strugglers in the faith digest all things offered without any hesitations whatsoever!

Christian Principals in 3 parts

IS CHRISTIANITY COLLAPSING? This is Part one of two parts

 Go To Is Christianity Collapsing - Part II

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    There are unscrupulous people on the internet these days.  Some of them are not who they claim to be and in order to disrupt honest spiritual pursuits, they are known to send out e-mail under someone else's name or the name of another church or jurisdiction with attachments.  Anyone can do this, if they want.  Some of them exist in Toledo, Ohio... Some in Texas... Others in Michigan, California and many other places... Some are "haters of truth" who follow (whether they are willing to admit it ) those who have sway over less educated or ignorant people... as their are also those who do not even know what they are doing because they seek glory to satisfy their own vanity and selfish pride to take over a church or jurisdiction of another, or to wreck havoc over those whom they hate without considering the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ. 

    If you should ever receive an e-mail with an attachment claiming to be from anyone at "apostle1.com" - "apostle1.org" or even "apostle1.net" - - - know that our policy is to not send out e-mail from any of our domain names with an attachment except to those only who know us.  Please note that apostle1.com news messages not include file attachments. If you receive an email not meeting these strict guidelines, please do not open it under any circumstances. Instead, forward it to apostle1.com (thaddeus@apostle1.com) so its contents can be examined by our various affiliates. Therefore, don't open it! If you receive any e-mail from apostle1.com, apostle1.org or apostle1.net and have never before communicated with us... even if you have communicated with us... verify, verify and again, verify.  And, We do not open e-mail that is not identifiable or known to us either.

Unless we know exactly from whom an e-mail comes... nothing is clicked on or opened, especially those with attachments!  You would be surprised from whom 'hate' e-mail arrives and what attempts and extremes they go to make their e-mails "look" official when it is a lone person(s)  who hate TRUTH and love lies, hate anything from being posted that involves TRUTH because they may be affected with exposure to the LIVING TRUTH of Jesus Christ's Love. 

Also: Hang Up Telephone Calls constantly get to you?

We get them all the time.  But one thing we do many are unaware of... We keep an automatic telephone log and then we turn them over to the same group who monitors and interacts with the hackers, etc.

It no longer matters if the caller telephones once in a day, every other day or every day or several times a week, once a week or for several months... All get logged, even those who think they have escaped notice by using the actual I.D. Caller number of "000-000-0000" which is has been used, even those who don't show up on caller I.D. as hang-ups now. With new technology being what it is it only takes one ring at a person's (receiving phone to activate some of the new technology being used which locks the caller's phone number in, even when they use by-pass alternate numbers to make shrewd calls).  We are advised one caller is facing terrorism criminal charges even though he used three different go-through numbers ranging all around the world, but were found to originate their call from California.  Hmmm.... what does this tell you?   Others, we are advised were found to be out of Michigan, Ohio, even Illinois and another state.

It is known that a telephone number showing up on some caller I.D.'s may actually be a telephone service provider phone number, yet... they too keep logs and information as to each individual cellular or local (their locale) phone usage... 

In the not-to-distant future, we intend to post some of those telephone numbers and, hopefully, persons, which constantly show up as "harassing hang-up" callers.  May be, you too have the same? 

Keep Watch!

Those who do such unscrupulous things, HATE some of the news, quotes, and such as to inform the general public.  Some of them pose as clergy, while a few are actually clergy from various "other" offshoot AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH or other jurisdiction(s) of the same or similar name of which we are, in some instances, their former MOTHER CHURCH (as is the same named Toledo, Ohio based, an offshoot, who had once been a part of us and unknowingly to our unworthy selves, were once a part of the clergy but they did not obtain permission to leave the jurisdiction they were under, according to Canon, and thus obtained for themselves re-ordination and consecrations, several times... and then using a variety of church names, including our own after they were defrocked and excommunicated, having more than three (3) times being excommunicated by other legitimate apostles/bishops); having joined in and with  "Independent" churches who have nothing to do with us or even true Orthodoxy.  We have the information on their numerous "Paper Church" names and name changes.  But the real issue is whether they were ever truly an ordained Priest and bishop?

It is true that when one is ordained to the priesthood, the old saying of "Once a Priest, always a priest forever..." holds true... But where there has been or is deception and fraud involved, the old saying is invalid altogether which is the stool kicked out from under any subsequent consecrations as a Bishop for the Episcopacy has then been obtained on a sheet of lies and therefore they are frauds, wolves in sheep's clothing.  The problem here is with civil authorities and agencies. 

Any documents a false one obtains from those who ordained him, including subsequent documents relating to consecrations; civil authorities never (or hardly ever) verify their validity and thus issue their own documents and errantly recognize the individual. 

These false sheep in wolf's clothing seek to go out of their way to character assassinate and disparage religious web sites who do not meet their own brand of standardization and those who know where the proverbial "bones are buried on them" which is evidence of the wolf not being "Orthodox" "Christian" or even "Catholic" no matter what their nomenclature corporate name may be.  The Toldeo, Ohio based same or similar named person/group under his/their so-called leader has been deposed, defrocked and excommunicated more than three different times by various bishops/apostles.  He, and several others, have become just as bad as the modern day Ecumenists of the National Council of Churches, World Council of Churches, the World Council of Bishops and more.  It matters not now... whether they use the so-called name of "Athonite" "Benedictine" "Celtic" "Old Roman" "Old Catholic" - etc..  A name does not make one Christian. Their ultimate aim and goal is destruction to those from whom they had either originated from or gone through to obtain the same or similar named "church" they claim to hold to by the state's civil law in which they reside alone.  They are not a "Schema-monk" or even a true "monk" for they were deposed and excommunicated for violations of the Holy Rule they claim to subscribe to, giving and openly providing false misleading and inaccurate information about other more honorable clergy.  These 'wolves in sheep's clothing attract other nefarious and questionable persons whose aims are similar: for fame, image, power and glory, and if it should be that 'fortunes' come along, all the more is their power based.

    Remember, anything that is a HALF TRUTH is not truth but a lie!  Many there are that you may know who fit those descriptions... pray for them.  Pray that God will send his Spirit of Truth upon them and lead them to Salvation through tears of Repentance, conversion of their cold and calculating hearts toward seeking forgiveness from God and those whom they attempt to harm. 

    Those who receive e-mail from us, know who we are and from where we send mail.  There are also many who know that they can send e-mail under another group or person's e-mail address, which has been happening.  If you receive e-mail that purports itself to be from us, verify first by hitting your "reply" button and ask, "I received this e-mail but would like verification if it is from you." 

    If you are of another jurisdiction, you too could find that your parishioners, clergy and faithful might become subject to the same as we have recently found. 

    Let this be a warning to visitors so as to be safeguarded against unscrupulous e-mails which contain viruses, worms and unsavory material from person(s) organizations or institutions that are more self-serving than uplifting and informatively news worthy. 

    For ourselves, we have, as in the past, so once again, acquired the assistance of those who are able and capable of tracing e-mails back to their source and taking appropriate action in North America. 

    We have learned that the organization we subscribe to, whose members come from various legal and law enforcement backgrounds amongst other areas of society, are committed to the faith even though they may hold different theologies.  Yet, in their monitoring of electronic communications of various persons or people, they do not always make haste to bring perpetrators to justice until after enough evidence has been gained in order to build a solid case.  We do not always know what information they have gained, but we do know the organization, whom we've been asked not to name, has had a 97% success rate in bringing to justice and obtaining a conviction against individuals, people, and sometimes even religious organizations of a persona that gives the appearance of both secular and religious bearing but who abuse and misuse technology.  The organization views those who abuse and misuse the internet and other technologies as nothing more than a form of "domestic terrorism" - - - - and, it would seem to appear that the courts are in agreement!

 Those kinds of people, organizations, etc. who misuse and abuse communication technologies are no different than those who attempt to use coercive measures, and in some instance, even blackmail for the same idea is involved... to cause havoc and wreckage, to destroy the spirit and activity of those who struggle in the faith out of pain of heart for the Orthodox Church which is TRUTH. The degree that some have been known to go to, as seen by other jurisdictions, is to take advantage of questionably mentally challenged or those who have a lack of education and understanding to get them to make statements, even outright lies, in writing, in order to destroy.  Such persons or groups are spiritual terrorists for unholy and un-Orthodox causes, aims and goals.

    Yes, our Metropolitan Archbishop, +Joseph Thaddeus, SSJt., Ph.D. strongly defends the Seals of the Confessional for such leads to true Repentance in thought, word and deed whereby the penitent is required to make amends, where possible, to seek forgiveness of those harmed by his actions whether real or imagined, and to give his forgiveness to those who have harmed him before taking the Holy Body and Blood in the Eucharist, Jesus the Christ.  The reality of this understanding is bound up in and with the findings for which cause he, himself, had been character assassinated by his detractors who claim the courts prevented him from breaking the Seals of the Confessional which is not the truth at all.... Click here to see what another bishop's findings are...

    The workings of Holy Spirit will not be daunted by those who attempt to cause disruption!  It is for these and other reasons that you are urged to read what true repentance and forgiveness means for real "Christians".

  The Founding of Orthodoxy 

How Many Times

It is one's duty as a true Christian which rests upon the Orthodox Catholic Christian Faith established by Jesus Christ, that one continues on the path, the struggle in this life to: Learn the true meaning of Pascha (Easter) and the Life of Christ, His teachings and their importance for all who call themselves "Christian" which means "a follower of Jesus Christ":

He Is Risen Indeed

Click on either the above Icon or any of the following links to learn more!

Pascha -  Lenten Season - Easter

● Lent Message

● The Institution of Lent  ● Turning The Other Cheek  ● Hating One's Parents  ● Violence and the Kingdom  ● The Last Events of Christ 

● A word for the People of God

and Other Hard Sayings of Jesus Christ

● Who are the Modern Day Pharisees and Sadducees who abuse the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ?  ● What is a Safe Church

And More...

Apostasy Index

• About "Old Roman Catholicism" which include the Declaration of Utrecht of 1889 New

• APOSTASY & THE ROMAN JURISDICTION OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH

• The Great Apostasy

• America and the United Nations

• Day of the Lord and Signs of His Coming -  Covering

• About the "Oratory Catechism"

• A Review of the Oratory Catechism and Overview of Sedevacantism in General

• Responses to Review and Overview

• DECLARATION On John Paul II’s death, succession

• Who Decides in this war between Christ and Chaos?

• What Is The Indefectibility of the Catholic Church?

  Other Links - Other Articles of Importance

  About Pius XII

• Is Christianity Collapsing?

• Who are the Modern Day Pharisees and Sadducees who abuse the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ?

• ECUMENISM -- A PATH TO PERDITION

A Message from Our metropolitan Archbishop - UPDATED

A Very Special Message....

Our Primate's Message Archives - 2006

Our Primate's Message Archives 2004-2005

Go To: Apostasy & the Roman Jurisdicition of the Catholic Church 

Go To: Abouna Gegroi 2 cents worth  Go to: Daily Commemorations.

When Viewing a News Article click on the link to Return to "Home Page" or Daily News for 2006. For Daily/weekly News and Information Archives click on one of the follwoing:

2006 NEWS ARCHIVE

2005 News Archive

2004 news Archive

2003 News Archive.

About:

Apostle1.com, Apostle1.org and Apostle1.net

We are an educational, News-informational and research Web Site dedicated to providing such as befits those who seek things pertinent to the Orthodox Catholic Christian Faith and life.

Any good article or piece of information will be considered so long as it is not defamatory or slanderous toward an individual when not based on TRUTH or FACT, or which is altered out of context from its original publishing by recognized sources. All new articles submitted, after viewing and recommendations, are passed to our Editor, our Vladyka, +Joseph Thaddeus, OSB, SSJt., Ph.D.

“I prefer a defeat accompanied by humility to a victory accompanied by pride.”

                                                                               --An Elder

    Yes, our Metropolitan Archbishop, +Joseph Thaddeus, SSJt., Ph.D. strongly defends the Seals of the Confessional for such leads to true Repentance in thought, word and deed whereby the penitent is required to make amends, where possible, to seek forgiveness of those harmed by his actions whether real or imagined, and to give his forgiveness to those who have harmed him before taking the Holy Body and Blood in the Eucharist, Jesus the Christ.  The reality of this understanding is bound up in and with the findings for which cause he, himself, had been character assassinated by his detractors who claim the courts prevented him from breaking the Seals of the Confessional which is not the truth at all.... Click here to see what another bishop's findings are...

    The workings of Holy Spirit will not be daunted by those who attempt to cause disruption!  It is for these and other reasons that you are urged to read what true repentance and forgiveness means for real "Christians".

   "It would be better to have ten (10) true repentant X-felons who ask for and give true forgiveness than it would be to have one (1) non-x-felon or common person whose self-righteousness exceeds even the Pharisees, Sadducees, the gossip mongers, slanderers and un-repentant; for the repentant x-felon understands the true meaning of the Church's purpose as being the spiritual hospital." (siq) +Joseph Thaddeus, OSB, SSJt., Ph.D., Metropolitan Archbishop, Archabbot, Primate

Yes... "Prejudice Makes Prisoners of the Hated and the Hater..." (1992-Fr. Alan Stanford)

One can ask, "What part of 'Prejudice' and 'hate' do you not understand?  Are you a complacent person?  In light of the saying, examine yourself!  You may be surprised if you are honest with yourself for your soul may convict you before Jesus Christ convicts you in the times to come!

"When tested by some trial you should try to find out not why or through whom it came, but only how to endure it gratefully, without distress or rancor."

St. Mark the Ascetic.

"Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, Whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord does not impute iniquity, And in whose spirit there is no deceit." Psalms 32:1-2
 

    For further information about how spammers, hackers and those who are angry with you can or will attempt to do damage, we offer the following link as regards some of the computer - internet problems:

http://msn.pcworld.com/howto/article/0,aid,116258,00.asp

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