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Quotes from Father Thaddeus

Quotes From His Eminence, +Joseph Thaddeus, O.S.B., SSJt., Ph.D.

Metropolitan Archbishop - Abbot

Quotes from Father Thaddeus  is a series of questions and answers placed in a "Basic Theme" format.  The questions and answers are based on real events, actual happenings, news and information garnered from throughout the world and questions posed.  Some questions under the "Basic Theme" may not necessarily reflect on the theme itself, but have (as a side issue) some relevance. 

December 2004

Jason (Florida): December 29, 2005 (Posted January 3, 2005)

Father, your blessing:  What constitutes spiritual fraud versus material fraud?

Father Thaddeus replies: There are many ways to answer this question and those of true Orthodoxy would probably want to rake me over the coals for the manner with which I will attempt to answer the question straight forward.

Most know what material fraud is.  Spiritual fraud is anything whereby an individual has attempted to break a promise that impinges on some things material and on many things spiritual relating to one's promise to change their ways.  Let me provide an example.  Many, many years ago a man came to me who showed documentation that he was a duly ordained priest.  In some of those documents was a photo.  Yet, the very civil documents needed to identify the individual exactly were never presented.  He played upon the religious documents.  He claimed coming from New York State, USA.  Because of our own episcopal youth (as a bishop), we were not as alert as we are in these present times. 

The man was accepted and sent to serve in a parish in the North West part of the U.S.  He did much damage afterwards. 

When a friend of ours in the Greek Church took action to investigate, it was found that the man stole documents from the true priest who had passed away.  In this instance, both material and spiritual fraud were perpetrated. 

Then, for another example: a man of the hierarchy has for many years claimed himself to be a certain person.  He presented religious documentation.  Telephone calls verified the identity of the individual as being a clergyman of degree he claims.  Yet, even though the man had promises to "Make all things known" - he has continually found excuses and means to work around the keeping of the promises made.  In fact, the man has done worse than that by claiming many things that would make it appear that he and those with him have little to nothing.  The fact that they have little to nothing is virtually true.  And, by so doing, received much support and has replied with many promises.  Nothing has actually come about to support those promises in spirit and truth except words and minor actions.  Although having promised to change his ways, everything points to the opposite.  This is a form of spiritual fraud.  The same exists in another example where one received temporary use of a corporate religious name, failing and refusing to give due honor and respect to the one from whom he had received it, along with those of that synod.  When he was apprised of his failure, he claimed that because the original documentation had no wording to that effect of "temporary" he could do as he sought fit.  In fact he did just that.  Yet, as for the promise of "temporary" his remarks had been 'that was then, this is now, I am in control and I am the power'.  This is spiritual fraud too.

When making promises to anyone, be as honest as possible in living up to those promises without a fault.  If, for real excusable reasons one cannot live up to promises made on-time, let it be know and be specific as to the exact reasons.  Don't shilly-shally around! 

We all err.  This is not a perfect Church in this life.  We are not perfect clergymen.  We were never promised that the Holy Spirit would make us wholly perfect, but to lead us into truth!  And it is that truth which is being violated by those who make promises and have no intention to maintain those promises, often times stretching a promise's goal or time sequence in which it is to be kept, in a way and manner this is akin to politics, an unholy thing.  Spiritual fraud is many things.  A promise made to another person is the same as making a promise to God.  If you are dishonest in making the promise, you are dishonest to God Himself.  For your intentions become known.  To make it appear that you are one thing and then do another, it is a form of spiritual fraud.  To claim you are going to do one thing and do another, that is spiritual fraud. 

Spiritual fraud is also akin to that of sheep stealing when clergy claim one thing and go behind the backs of others, either directly or indirectly through using others by ardent verbiage, to dissuade faithful away from a clergy man to that of another.  This is, again, a form of secularizing the Church by inculcating politics that is akin to spiritual fraud!  There are many times in which this has been seen not just by priests and bishops, but by faithful themselves after they have awakened to the realization of what has happened and what the real truth is.

Spiritual fraud can also be seen as not telling the whole truth, but only a part of the truth!  If the whole truth, when known, is not told... it is a truth twisted into a lie and it is a form of spiritual fraud too.

One last comment on this subject.  This question and the answer hinges on one's understanding or lack of understanding on Mark 4:11-12 in which it is stated, "To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables; so that they may indeed see but not perceive, and many indeed hear but not understand; lest they should turn again, and be forgiven."  There are many a clergyman who fails to understand and thus commit both knowingly and unknowingly, spiritual fraud. And here you can learn its meaning by clicking on this sentence.

Alex C. (Baltimore, MD): December 26, 2004

Bless Father.  I noticed the information on your website concerning the differences in traditions of the East and West concerning Christmas.  Do you observe the Orthodox Christmas of January 7th versus that of the Western Christmas of December 25th?

Father Thaddeus replies:

Yes, we most assuredly do!  While many observe the present day materialism of December 25th, we most assuredly observe those things described in the Christmas Message as posted.

Samuel D. (Los Angeles, CA): December 24, 2004

Your blessings Eminence.  I was recently ordained a "Deacon" in another jurisdiction which is in communion with the American Orthodox Church (also known in recent times as the North American Orthodox Church) under your direction.  As a student at one of the large Universities in Los Angeles, I began my thesis.  In one of my course studies I began to do some research and noticed your birth name versus that of your adoption name and your professional which became your legal name followed by your religious name.  In my scouring the internet I came across other information and found that your birth name is used as being a co-consecrator once for a bishop in Indiana with the principle consecrator out of Ohio. Then I found that the consecration of that Indiana Bishop was for the name of just "Orthodox Benedictine Monastery" under the religious umbrella of "Orthodox Benedictine Monastery of the Dormition of Mary" and/or "Latin Orthodox Benedictine Fathers/Northwest Indiana".  What befuddles the imagination is how can a consecrator ordain/consecrate a bishop for a specific purpose and later change the direction or documents to that of another nomenclature such as "Athonite Benedictine" from the initial purpose for which the bishop was consecrated?  How can they appropriate the name "Athonite" when they were not even  brought into the Benedictine fold by those who were truly "Athonites" from Mt. Athos? How could you even sanction such an action and why did you not demand or declare the truth for the purpose of clarification as to your roll as assisting bishop?  And last... would this not be tantamount to that which you have often times called "spiritual fraud"? What is the real truth?

A reply:

When the assistant webmaster brought your questions on this particular issue forward, an e-mail which, by now, you should have received concerning this issue, was sent in reply.  The Indiana bishop is a true bishop in the Lines of Succession.  But, because of a denouncement, a repudiation, of any consecration by 'Thaddeus" as regards the laying on of hands by the Ohio bishop upon 'Thaddeus', it only stands to reason that the Indiana bishop has received his consecration single-handedly as any assistance would have been automatically included in the repudiation/denouncement.  Although single handed consecrations are valid, they are irregular.  You are correct in your findings concerning the birth name, adoption name, professional name and the religious name of 'Thaddeus'.  In time to come it is intended to place all things in proper perspective.  As to the initial name used by the assisting consecrator, their was nothing illegal involved so much as it was the consecrand (Indiana bishop) who demanded that the religious name not be used as a means to distance himself from the taint of truth which would have otherwise shown a support of all that the Church defends without exclusion!  Because the primary (Ohio) consecrator and the one who had been consecrated (Indiana) are not a part of the AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH international and national headquarters, their usage of the nomenclature "AOC" is only with regards to their individual state for they are an offshoot of the original AOC (NAOC) out of California, and their validity is not denied for they are indeed valid bishops. As to "Athonite" we are not qualified to answer that question even though it is believed in your question lies the answer. And might it be added that they were truly made Benedictine members by others who are Benedictine.  They are consecrated Bishops and they are also Benedictine members.  What they call themselves today may be different from yester-days and the many tomorrows to come.

Ted (Las Cruces, NM): December 22, 2004

Your Eminence, bless.  I watched a television special in which it was reported that Muslims (Islam) believe Jesus Christ to be a prophet and that Mary is revered by them as a significant figure in their Muslim beliefs.  I can only wonder what tripe this is.  Correct me if I am wrong.

Father Thaddeus replies:

If you had studied history to any degree concerning the Muslims (Islam), you would have learned that their originator and his followers had been kicked out of their native land because the pagans would not listen or even accept his new teachings which are supposed to be inspired by their 'Allah'. 

The truth of the matter is that their originator, when he and his followers were run-out of their pagan lands, they sought refuge in Constantinople in those ancient times.  They were dumb-founded for both the beauty of the Temples (what we today call Cathedrals), the music, the life, teachings and beliefs of the people of Orthodox Catholic Christianity.  They felt they had entered 'Heaven on Earth'.  This greatly impacted them.  Then they left and it is believed they sought further refuge with some who were Jews.

How can 'Allah' have inspired them to make reference to holy individuals when they actually learned of them from other cultures? 

How can the Koran (Q'oran) be inspired by a just and loving God when it is filled with vile vindictives to such a degree as to bring about degradation, dehumanization and even murder (even in these times) of those who do not believe in their 'Allah'?  This has led to the killing of Christians, Jews, men, women and even children.... all in the name of their Allah, their Koran (Q'oran)!

God is not divided against Himself, so how can the founders of Islam (Muslims) believe in a Loving God who embraces all of His children who attempt to do that which is right, true and correct according to one's nature and degree of ability to live a life of compassion and understanding? 

Because of the destruction of persons, the pedophilia sanctioned by Islam (Muslims) [the Koran {Q'oran}] and degradation of human life, of women and children; there is no other source for this misbegotten madness which poses as a religion of peace, but Satan himself!

There are those who argue against Christianity because of the horribleness of what is known to be true as written in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible.  They forget that we are called "Christian" because we follow and practice the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ.  And those who would reply with derogatives about the historical crusades are not aware nor ready to accept the fact that even in Christianity, there are those who have, as history has shown, men and clergy who have erred in their misguided understandings about the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ, believing they were doing a "Holy" thing. 

Alex (Tucson, AZ): December 22, 2004

A blessing your Eminence.  I have it said that Lines of Succession is argued in regards to a Church or jurisdiction's standing which has created an awful lot of inter-church politics.  As regards your own Lines of Succession there has been much talk about Maxey, Itkin, etc. as being irregular or invalid.  How does this affect your jurisdiction?

Father Thaddeus replies:

It doesn't.  The fact of the matter is that Archbishop Maxey was valid.  If you wish to gain understanding about him or Archbishop Itkin, dig deeper into the website for more information.  As with the apostles who turned away from Jesus Christ during His sufferings and Crucifixion, so do some bishops.  That makes them no less the apostles or Bishops they were ordained.  To turn away is not just a "physical" action, it is significantly important to understand that the physical showed a less than strong faith and belief in Him and thus it could be taken as tantamount to the turning away of the Faith and Teachings.  Yet, to accept heretical beliefs by some bishops of the past, all things in and with them can be restored when they return to the fullness of the Faith, the Church, when they have erred, repented and sought forgiveness.  Far too many play an "ethnic" politics in the various churches and jurisdictions just to raise an argument against some bishop (who is literally and 'apostle') because their "line" was tainted by a former consecrator whose actions leave for serious question. 

In the matter of Archbishop Maxey, I know personally that his reason for going to "Universalism" was to obtain information by walking and talking with the people so that he could amass one-on-one understandings that went beyond their universalistic dogma or doctrines.  He continued, in his home, in private, to practice his Orthodox Catholicity (Old Catholic practices).  But, because of health issues and alcoholism he became a broken man.  Because there was an eventual 'hue and cry' by those who were plagued by the political correctness disease and the disease of academia, he publicly repented, sought forgiveness and continued on as a true Bishop in the Church Catholic. 

Itkin may be another story too, but the same applies even there. 

The problem today with many "Orthodox" and even "Old Catholic" clergy be they 'ethnic' or otherwise, is that they attack those who can no longer defend themselves from the grave by making judgments against men who became even more worthy of honor because of Repentance and Forgiveness, some very publicly before their repose. 

So very many of those who today have been proclaimed a saint, truly lived a "Saintly" life at some point in their growth.  They learned in their spirit what they needed to do.  Many of them were not so scholarly.  Yet, they became Saints.  Some of them even turned away but came back to the root of the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ.  The Church has had the tendency to 'white-wash' the lives of the Saints, deleting or making no publication of the fact that the Saints were, for many of them, men and women who at some time in their lives, lived less than 'saintly' lives. 

This does not by any stretch of the imagination mean that I would wish to see either Archbishop Maxey or even Archbishop Itkin declared a 'Saint' - so much that I would wish for all clergy to stop and think before they make pronouncements of judgments to denounce others who have served in this army of Christ as Servants to the people.  The teachings are very clear.  What we do to others (even those who are no longer with us) will be done unto us as well. 

The Church is a spiritual hospital for sick souls.  Even clergy err.  Where is the church when even its clergy attempt an approach that is disease ridden with giving causes or reasons for why another clergyman is unworthy after that individual has repented?  It is nothing more than being un-christ-like and a turning away from the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ.  To keep up the same harangue is to show forth their lack of spirituality which seeps down, into and through to the physical in one's actions (by word and deed) which bespeaks of the degree they truly do, or do not, live up to the Faith once delivered.

There are clergy in Ohio, New Mexico, and in many other states and countries through out the world that I know who err on a constant and, sadly to say, consistent basis.  Yet, my daily prayer is to include them by name as I pray God will pique their conscience, their very heart, to come to a more spiritual understanding without the politics of man in order to come closer to God and to do that which is right, true, and correct as God would have each of us do.  Even my unworthy self have made very bad mistakes and I've truthfully have a past filled with error.  My problem today is that when I become angry with other clergy, it is an anger concerning their less-than-spiritual understandings by allowing man-made politics and academia to cause division.  Yet, while the politics and academia of man must be addressed to some degree; even so, and more importantly, the spiritual understandings of an individual must be all the more reflected so that politics and academia of man can be set aside.  The politics and academia of man oft times clog the spiritual receptors of individuals.  They become so clogged that one's 'ego' take over.  They need an antihistamine of sorts to become unclogged which means they need the help of the Holy Spirit through meditation, reflection, prayer, repentance, and finally, seeking forgiveness of both individuals and God.

This is the spiritual medication I often take for my unworthy self.  It is a sweet medicine.  It works!

 [Apostle1.com's Editorial Comment]:  The lines of Succession of our Metropolitan Archbishop +Joseph Thaddeus can be viewed by clicking here.  Read what is said there.  Go to the American Congregation of St. Benedict (ACSB) page to see what has been authored about Archbishop Maxey.

Debbie (Deming, NM): December 22, 2004

Your Blessings Eminence.  I live in another part of New Mexico.  My Father and Mother have raised us Orthodox Catholics of an ethnic church.  I have a brother who has been serving in one of your parishes.  Is it true what he says about "Promises"?  I ask only because he feels that promises made by other clergy to those of another jurisdiction must be kept or the vow itself is a broken vow to God?

Father Thaddeus replies:

Yes!  When one makes a promise to another person... and it doesn't matter if it is one clergyman to another regardless of jurisdiction or church affiliation, but just to another person or even to an organization, be it religious or secular, it is also a promise to God! 

There are always good cause for promises to be broken.  But in truth, if a promise cannot be kept by the one who made the promise, it is their duty and their responsibility to make an honest attempt to show good cause why they are unable to keep the promise.  Money matters, borrowing items, doing things and more, all fall under this when a promise is made to either pay back someone (be it an individual or an organization) or to do something.  If it cannot be kept, it is the responsibility of the individual who made the promise to let the other one know that the promise cannot be kept on time or cannot be kept at all because of the reason. 

Too many people, including clergy, make promises that they do not keep.  In many instances they make promises just to get the other person(s) off their proverbial "backs" with no intention of keeping the promise at all.  This is a most heinous kind of sin.  It is a sin against the person and most of all... To God!  This does reflect as to what the inner core belief of the individual is like.  And, such does have an effect upon their immortal soul. 

Your brother is very right in what he told you.  Pray for him and all of those in the clergy who, according to their nature and degree of ability, serve our Lord and Savior as Servants to the people of God who are the faithful.

John (Deming, NM):  December 20, 2004:

I am a member of another church.  Are the Athonite Benedictines of Deming a part of your group?

Father Thaddeus replies:

No!  They are a part of a splinter group from our California Parent Church corporation.  The AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH (a 1972 California corporation) could not legally (secularly) incorporate in New Mexico because another group had used the same name in previous years.  They are no longer in existence.  It appears that the State of New Mexico has the approach that a corporation name can only be used once.  Thus the AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH (California) had to incorporate under another name which. for us, is the NORTH AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH.  It is still the same Church. 

The Athonite Benedictines of Deming operate under a Toledo, Ohio splinter group which no longer has any affiliation or connection (as of 2002-2003) with its parent body whatsoever.  We are truly the National Headquarters.  Anyone who desires may visit the Ohio and the California Secretary of State(s) corporation pages to determine the validity of secular (civil) time sequence of existence for each corporation.  And, anyone may access information relating to times on which various clergy were consecrated "Bishops" in the Church or jurisdiction regardless of what lines of succession may be validly claimed.

There is no disparaging understandings that should be gained as regards validity of either religious bodies whatsoever.  For, indeed, they are valid! 

The true AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH (North American Orthodox Church) is about Orthodox spirituality, not necessarily from an ethnic Orthodox sense because "spirituality" be it Easter or Western is ORTHODOX only when it is divested from the machinations of inter-church politics of men.

For further understandings there are several links to various pages which explains this further.  One of them is (Deming AOC).  [Back to Question/Reply]

Pat J. (Deming, NM): December 19, 2004:

My family saw the local news and were rather amazed about no mention of your services and other things.  What is the relationship of the Toledo, Ohio based AMERICAN ORTHODOX CHURCH and the AMERICAN ORTHODOX Church International Headquarters?

Father Thaddeus replies:

Click on this link (Deming AOC) and read the reply.

Joe D. (Deming, NM): December 18, 2004

How can I learn about Orthodoxy?

Father Thaddeus replies:

In a venue like the internet (or books etc), Orthodox Christianity can be discussed, and information passed... but it can not be LEARNED here or elsewhere.

Orthodoxy isn't something that is "learned" in the usual sense. It's something that's LIVED. And in living it, you begin to learn it.. to truly learn it.

Orthodoxy is lived by those in the secular and religious world both corporately and individually. It is lived corporately in the liturgy and other services, and it's lived individually in the home and workplace... and everywhere else! And it's lived in the mysteries (or sacraments)... the eucharist, repentance, confession, forgiveness, chrismation, baptism....

Can it be lived only at home, or only in the services, or only in the mysteries? Well... can any life really be lived partially?? Orthodox life is a complete life, if it is to give life.

So we'll be glad to discuss it with you, and answer questions, and lead you to good printed Orthodox resources, on the internet and in the bookstore. But... that won't teach you Orthodox Christianity; at best, it will only teach you ABOUT Orthodox Christianity... much like a book can tell you about music -- the history of music, the physics, the styles etc.... but until you hear music, all that reading isn't really meaningful.

So we'll encourage you to visit an Orthodox Church, and see it being lived.....

November 2004

Father Thaddeus replies:

   What you say is pure truth with right thinking and right belief. 

    You seem to appear to be very scholastically minded. 

    Within what you have sent is the very answer to the question posed and I humbly thank you.  Such definitions and interpretations are the root of Our understanding Orthodoxy itself.

    I, on the other hand, am not so "scholastically" minded, I'm sorry to say. For I believe that oft times scholasticism can be a hindrance to the spiritual importance of what and who we are all about; prayer, contemplation, meditation, repentance and forgiveness.  But I continue to study, to absorb the very essence of the words of our Patristic Fathers, pray and meditate and find myself honored from time to time with the Grace of God to be given understanding.  Every clergyman of every rank and status must gain insight within, in order to grow both spiritually and otherwise. For not to do so, leaves them outside of the truth of Orthodoxy and leads them to the very things we said in our reply to Father "C" Arkansas (Nov. 24th) which is the various diseases plaguing the various jurisdictions of the Orthodox Church and even the Roman Church in these present times, the diseases of correctness, politicalism, scholasticism along with financial flow-chart mentalities.

    As to some (not all) Anglicans and other churches, I believe Father Gregori's response (below) is most appropriate too.  For it is in my reply to Father "C" (Arkansas - Nov. 24th) that I equally stated the facts of discernment concerning those churches.  Lest one forgets historical Truth about some Anglican jurisdictions who were received by the Moscow Patriarchate (St. +Tikhon of blessed repose... What an example. 

    Please, pray for me, for I am an unworthy sinner in the vineyard of Jesus Christ.

Father Gregori - Abbot (New York): (Nov 27, 2004)

    Your blessings Eminence;

    I feel that your response was clear and to the point, and made plenty of sense. I also feel that it fully expresses the spiritual AND the theological aspects of the "ONE MIND OF THE CHURCH."

      And may I be so bold as to add that if many of the Bishops of today, would try a little harder to be more like the Bishops of the past, perhaps they and the Church would be better off. By this, I mean that so many bishops of the 20th and 21st century seem to be more wrapped up in the trappings and prestige of the office of Bishop, and many are more concerned about nationalism as concerning their own various Churches, i.e., Russian, Greek, Antiochean, etc., than they are about the spiritual aspects of THE ONE TRUE CHURCH. The real Question should not be about; "Who is more Orthodox than whom", but rather it should be, "How can we work together to help one another to attain TRUE ORTHODOXY?"

      You have a Western view (mindset) of Orthodoxy and I, on the other hand, lean more toward the Eastern (mindset), in so far as my choice of Liturgical celebration, but I sincerely believe that both you and I work very well together. We may not agree fully on the minutia (minor, meaningless details), we agree on those things which make Orthodoxy and Catholicism meaningful, and this shows that it is possible for those of the Eastern persuasion, those of the Western persuasion, Anglican, Roman, Lutheran, etc., to work together in spirit of peace, understanding, and Christian Love, to reach the goal of True Orthodoxy, or at least, to start on the right path.

Father Thaddeus replies: (Nov. 27, 2004)

    Blessings to you and yours... for truly I am humbled and give thanks that there are those who see through to truth.

Father C. (Arkansas): (Nov. 24, 2004): 

    Bless Father.  Several of our parish members and other clergy in other parishes and jurisdictions (removed for posting purposes) have been holding discussion about what is going on with various Orthodox Jurisdictions and the 'Roman Jurisdiction of the Catholic Church' that you coin.  The questions we pose to you and hope you will be able to answer for our viewers of your web site is not to deride or 'rub-in' some of the truths that we already know, so much as to provide Q&A for viewers. Many of us are dissatisfied with many things going on in the world with various Orthodox and Roman Catholic actions and activities, yet many of those very things are no different than what other Protestant Churches are doing in the material areas.

1. Your web site is apparently about TRUTH!  Why haven't you fallen under, joined, or been taken under one of the more Eastern Orthodox Churches such as the Russian Orthodox, the Ukrainian Orthodox, or the Antiochians, etc.?

2. If you were to change your web site and adopt certain Eastern Orthodox ways, would you be more acceptable to them?

3. Recent postings on your web site suggests you are becoming more "Anglican".  Why is that?

4. Where do you stand on those who are Anglican, Lutheran and such others that hold to the Catholic confession?

5. Why do some consider that you "Attack" when posting truth?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    You pose some rather interesting and direct questions that are not easy to answer in simple short words or sentences.  We are North Americans (Canadians and Americans).  We are Orthodox Catholic in spirit.  We do not necessarily have the "Eastern Mindset" about us.  We do not ride two horses or serve two masters, meaning that we do not play the heavy-handed game of inter-church politics nor maintain a financial flow-chart mentality for keeping parishioners in the flock or in the pews.

    Many Eastern Orthodox of various jurisdictions, including those of the Roman jurisdiction of the Catholic Church, feel we are attacking when truth is posted... when they fail or refuse to realize that this website is an educational, research, news-information and a hosting service for others who are, at least, "ORTHODOX" in their spirit... being followers of the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ.  There are a few in Anglicanism, a few in Lutheranism, and several other nomenclatured churches and jurisdictions who, by their actions and beliefs, are more 'Orthodox' than even the Orthodox because they believe, live and practice their faith daily.  That does not mean all Anglicans, all Lutherans and others are to be accepted carte blanche... so much as they must be viewed on a case by case situation. 

    With the above understanding, we have begun to host at this web site, those who are truly Orthodox although they have different Church nomenclatures to them. 

    Not all who are Eastern Orthodox or Roman Catholic are going to go to Heaven.  Not all who are Protestant are going to go to hell either. 

    Equate, in your mind, the various jurisdictions as a diamond in the rough.  On first starting out in life, they may have been more pure and sparkling.  But, as actions were taken and understandings were accepted, they either became chipped or discolored, even darkened, while others began to show more brightly even though they may have a dull or darkened side.  Actions taken or failed to be taken is that which brings them either closer to or away from the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ and the ancient Ecumenical Councils which either brightens or darkens that diamond.  The way one handles and responds to the materialistic ideals and goals of these times can lead one into the arms and love of God or the arms and use for abuse by the Evil One.

       If we say nothing... report nothing... make no comments... that might be an acceptable way in what is considered "Orthodox" - {Even the Roman Jurisdiction of the Catholic Church believes similarly only for so long as they can hold the scepter of power as to who says what and when as to who is or is not "Catholic"} - but that is mans political way... which means by saying nothing and reporting nothing, we give assent to all that is on-going and therefore, in spirit, we have fallen into the trap of the Evil One as though we, ourselves, had done those very same things.  When a disease is discovered, information goes out so that others can take steps to protect themselves.  If nothing is said, people will die.  So too, the spirit can be killed while the body lives... that is the Spirit of Christ in each one of the faithful.  Orthodoxy itself requires TRUTH... RIGHT THINKING... RIGHT BELIEF...  Without truth, the faith falters into something else...  This, even St. John Maximovitch taught me through Blessed Father Seraphim Rose.  Yet, they did not, in fact, teach me to shout it out, so much as to inculcate these truths within.  Others who have been and are strugglers in this life on the same or similar path, must also have the chance to make their own FREE WILL decisions based on what they can learn so they too can inculcate into their spirit what is Right, True and of the Faith once delivered.

    We learn from Scripture several things.  In St. Luke 12:25-59, consider its meaning.  Does it not apply more to just individuals?  Wouldn't you say also that it applies to jurisdictions of the Faith?  And what about the candlesticks of the various churches?  What more about the Word of God in the Epistle of Timothy?  Are these things falling on deaf ears?  Chapter 2 of Timothy are warnings about fruitless discussions.  Are we to avoid truth while others are involved, in this life, in the same fruitless discussions for the sake of honor among men and not God?  Did not Jesus Christ Himself tell us that when He comes again he would unite all of the earth and make his Church One?  It is not 'men' but Jesus Christ Himself who shall do this.  Thus all the discussions on-going and all the rhetoric and returning of holy relics is nothing more than that of men who, as bishops of the church, have fallen away from the truth and do not want the truth to be known or seen.

    If the faith of the church is to survive, the truth must be told and those things that were opposed by the ancient epitome of the Canons and the Faith of Our Lord and Savior, must be made known.  Thus we are considered by many as to be 'attacking' when we are doing nothing more than showing TRUTH. 

    We are not at war with any one of the Eastern or Roman Jurisdictions of the Catholic Church whatsoever.  We are at war with the Evil One who has inculcated himself into the various jurisdictions to alter, misshapen, and disfigure the Church in ways as to make it appear to men as being truly One while they do not wish to change or return to the very roots of belief, understanding and action that they came from.     

    This shows that Synchrestic Ecumenism is truly alive and doing well to bring about the one thing Scripture warns us against in Revelation.... a ONE WORLD CHURCH, a time in which those who are not a part of it, will not be able to purchase or obtain services but will be sought out for alteration, change, maimed or killed.  It is better to loose one's very body than it is to altogether loose both body and soul to the Evil One in our midst.

    When men of the Church, the clergy and even the bishops are more concerned for their loosing flocks from their jurisdictions, seeing that, in these present times, the various jurisdiction number of faithful leaving... working toward rebuilding their flock on the footstool of finances and politics to regain a number of members... this indeed is not the action of Jesus Christ and His Holy Apostles at all that is working in them... It is the political machinations and financial flow-chart mentalities that are working which is the Evil One who has imbued himself in their midst. 

    Your second question should have been answered.  It would be nice to be "accepted" by them, but it is more important, and our goal, to be accepted by Jesus Christ, even given our many faults, frailties and sins... Besides, I am truly not worthy to be one with them. 

    We are not about being a "Metropolitan Archbishop" or this... or that... it is not about pontificating... It is about Christ, Jesus... He stood up to the Pharisees and Sadducees... and so must we who are his Servants... not just individually, but collectively in as humble a manner possible.  What may be thought as "arrogancy" on my part is not an arrogancy, but the pointing toward truth. 

    While this Web Site is about News, others have said it is a circus... a forum.  They also have said it does not lead anyone to Christ.  Yet, we know from responses that it has.  This Web Site is also about Research... and that we do provide too.  This Web Site is a Religious Hosting Service... and that we attempt to accomplish.  Yet, there are those who take umbrage at our hosting certain Anglican jurisdictions too.  Yet they forget that we also have posted the fact that "The true Orthodox Catholic Christian Church is large enough to accommodate various  theologies that are not diametrically opposed to the faith and morals taught by the Apostolic Church" and that is what is happening for those who we Host at this Web Site are Orthodox Catholic although their theology varies but are not diametrically opposed to the faith and morals taught by the Apostolic Church.

    Love does not always mean remaining silent, but out of Love, especially for others, we point out that Love which comes from Jesus Christ as expressed in the Holy Gospels about His Life and Teachings. 

    In many of an Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Church are parishioners who have come to them because we had asked them to go there, for even we know that the Love of Christ can be, as it has in the past, even in the present, been expressed in the terms of Jesus Christ Himself in those who are His Servants.  Yet, in doing this, it was with regards to each individual instance or case by which a family or person has contacted us for which they were directed to those parishes or jurisdictions to search for what they would find most fitting for their need and because we did not have a local parish of our own jurisdiction for them to go to.  So, in the long of it all, the Orthodox Catholic (Russian, Ukrainian, Greek, Antiochian, etc.) and Roman Catholic Churches have benefited in many ways.  What we have therefore posted is not about US versus THEM, but about Jesus Christ, the ancient epitome of the Canons and Patristic Fathers versus Synchrestic Ecumenism which leads to the false ONE WORLD CHURCH.

    To all my Orthodox and Roman Brother Catholics in Christ...  I do seek their forgiveness for the real or perceived harms they imagine I may have done to them...

    If I, and those with me, are able to preserve or save just one soul for the sake of Jesus Christ even though I, myself, may be caste into Hades for my many sins, then a good thing has been done.  If I were to look out for just myself and have not the love of and for my fellow men, then I am selfish, foolish and have not the love of Jesus Christ in me whatsoever.  For if I were to more fully humble myself and accept those other jurisdictions, I would be silently accepting the actions that involve Synchrestic Ecumenism.  I truly believe there are many in those jurisdictions and those who are the head of them, who - - - out of sincerity of belief, believe they are doing a good thing... no matter how political and financial flow-chart mentalities may be involved.

    The politics of men and their financial flow-chart mentalities is certainly not about Jesus Christ, but about men and the Evil One.  Truth is about Jesus Christ!  And those who are faithful according to their nature and degree of ability, are surely to be given, where possible, truth and all the various perspectives of what that might, could or would mean. 

    We actually make no vile vindictives against any jurisdiction... We make known what news is being reported, and what others from within their own, have had to say and what actions have been taken or are taking place by those jurisdictions.  What they do, they do themselves... and it is that which is being reported in our news.  We proclaim the truth of their actions or statements in light of the Gospel, the Seven Ecumenical Councils and Patristic Fathers.  If their actions or statements proclaim something different... it must be made known to all who view our web site so that they can make, for themselves, their own Free Will decision to either continue with those whom they are a part of, or to turn away toward that which will aide them in progressing forward into the arms of Jesus Christ not based on politics and financial flow chart mentalities nor on the disease of "correctness," etc.. which comes from the Evil One.

Anonymous: (Nov. 20, 2004)

    Father Thaddeus... You said: "This "Body of Christ" is His second coming!  This is something many Protestants and even, now-a-days, some Orthodox, have failed to understand because they have allowed themselves to depart from the faith once delivered." How can you say this? If this is true, then you must have been asleep.

Father Thaddeus replies:

    Surely you missed the previous paragraph to that October 25th reply from which you read your quoting of my unworthy self... for it says in no uncertain terms.... "Jesus Christ came into the world as the Word of God.  That was His first coming.  He ascended into Heaven and before he left this world, he made Apostles which became, by the power of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost as sent by the Father because of Jesus Christ.... established the Church as the Body of Christ."  Can you not understand that it is a "type" of His Coming again... ??? That the Church is the alter-ego of Christ...??? There are many so-called 'churches' so it must be asked that you consider and be careful as to what is a true church and those that call themselves 'christians' for some are no different than those who have fallen into the false belief of synchrestic ecumenism which leads, in contradiction to the ancient epitome of the Canons, to the ONE WORLD CHURCH, a false Christ... do you now see with your heart???  For when He, Jesus Christ, comes again he surely will bring judgment too!

    As to 'some will be taken and others left behind' ... re-read Revelation... read it with spiritual eyes... Yet, even so, we must remember that every second we have left to us in this life, we have a chance to seek repentance and forgiveness.  Forgiveness is not an option.  Without it, we die apart from Him who is our salvation! and thus we are left behind... that is, for those who are living in those times and become witness to those events..

    When Holy Scripture speaks about "false Christs" ... many have interpreted it as to individuals.  Yet, they forget or fail to understand that it is not just individuals, but also groups who claim themselves to be "Christian" ... plural intended for some are actually so-called "Churches" too... These are the ones who have intermixed their theologies with an entertainment mentality, a political mentality of 'correctness' as to what is proper or improper to say... oft times dismissing the very things that the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ provide for guidance.  Many have opted for this 'falseness' which, under guise of 'moral' agendas, {many of which are surely 'moral' without understanding where it is leading them... even Satan is a 'moral' spirit... yet 'ego' is the center of the problem which insinuates itself into the very being of each living person} lead to a false worship of the very thing they openly deny, anti-christ.  Therefore the idea of "false Christs" is not specific to just individuals but can be applied to Churches too.

    Synchrestic Ecumenism (leading to the ONE WORLD CHURCH) is built upon just such idealisms never before sanctioned by the ancient canons... which lead to a false worshipping not of God, but Satan himself.  For the challenge of every true Christian, is to stay focused in the heart on the very thing delivered ... Jesus Christ Himself... On saying this, I am saying that the false 'churches' are misapplying, misusing the ideals of 'morality' in just such a fashion, and in a manner, by which they are able to preach a way of worship that was never before sanctioned because such worship, especially to those who believe it out of sincerity of their own faith... leads to horrible acts and actions, much of which is already taking place today.  It is therefore a 'false' worship by those who preach such as though it comes from 'Christ' when it does not.

    Remember... 'Worship' is not just a seventh day action but an action of the mind and heart on a daily basis.  What is, or is not said to others, even our actions for or against others, day-to-day... is worship to God or to Satan!

Many E. (California): (Nov. 10, 2004)

    Bless Father.  I am a minister in a non-denominational Church.  I was raised Greek Orthodox.  My regular secular job is law enforcement.  Yes, I'm a cop with a rather large national group!  My job provides financial and other securities for both my family and myself.   The problem that I am having is finding some of my religious beliefs in conflict with some of the very laws I am empowered to enforce.  Do you have any suggestions?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    Scripture tells us that one cannot ride two horses or serve two masters because one will conflict with the other.  First, get your spiritual life in order.  Return to the roots of Christian truth which is in Orthodoxy.  Get out of the "non-denominational" church you minister in because there is no real such thing as "Non-Denominational" for it is the invention of the evil one to further disguise and pervert the real truth of God through Jesus Christ.  All who claim they are "non-denominational" have actually obtained their misguided understandings from a denominational stance, mixed up as it is with (for example) Church of Christ, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormon, and other heretical groups who call themselves "Christian" but are far removed from the very roots of Christ.  Second: Make up your mind as to whom you serve.  Either you serve man and his civil-secularism with all its perversions of Christian Truth or you serve God which require that you return to the very roots of your Christian faith based in Orthodoxy that you grew up with.  Are you catering to materialism or to the Evil One?  When one is truly of the Faith and Belief in Jesus Christ, there is no issue but what He solves with your erstwhile desire to gain Truth and to do that which is right in His sight.  He never promised and in fact warned that those who would truly follow Him would suffer much.  Where is your heart and spirit?  Once you make that decision, act!  You are either the law enforcement Officer for man, or the law enforcement officer for God by being observant to and practicing the very tenets of the Life and Teachings of Jesus Christ... You cannot be both.  May you be blessed!

Father Adrian (Arizona): (Nov. 3, 2004)

    Bless Eminence.  Why are is your jurisdiction claiming to be Orthodox when it is not under a Patriarch?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    Have you not yet read the "Lines of Succession" or the "Grammata" or any of the other documents which grants us autocephalous standing?

    The other part of the equation, more especially in these times in which we find ourselves (you included)... I would pose a question to you... How can anyone who claim to be truly Orthodox be under a Patriarch who has opted to join in and with the World Council of Churches or to support the World Council of Bishops and other such groups who have departed from the ancient Seven Ecumenical Councils? 

    I must admit that I have to meditate on an argument recently sent to us that is not posted here, but it suggests that all who are members of a parish under a jurisdiction who fall under one of the Patriarchates that has become part and partial of the World Council of Churches, does not necessarily mean that the faithful member has accepted the totality of the patriarchal membership.  But once it becomes known as to the membership, it is the duty of the Orthodox faithful to flee from the heretics.  Scripture, the ancient Canons and even the Patristic Fathers tell us that much!

Mrs. Bench (Wisconsin): (Nov. 2, 2004)

    I have noticed that there has been information posted to your website which is against the Council of Churches, World Council of Churches and the World Council of Bishops.  Why is that?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    If you want to find out how a rose smells... do you ask the question or do you go out and seek out a rose and smell it?

    American Orthodoxy is much like the Rose...

    This web site has many articles.  It is difficult to determine which, in specific, you may be referring to.  But if you had done some more research, you would find the very answer and many more as to why!  Most sincere and true Christians do their research first and not opt out to the easier ways or the entertainment mentality which incorporate a "correctness disease" approach.  While this possibly sounds a bit harsh, cold or brash, it is truth!  A true Christian seeking information, normally and usually researches first then ask their question where their research fails to supply the answer.  I know the answer(s) to you question is already in existence at apostle1.com.

Father Benjamin (Utah): (Nov. 1, 2004)

   Your Blessings Eminence.  I have noted the inclusion of the American Congregation of Saint Benedict (ACSB) out of Oakland, California.  How are we to perceive Anglicanism as a whole?

Father Thaddeus replies:

     We should view all who call themselves "Christians" as though they are truly Christian no matter how far from the true Christian roots (which is Orthodoxy) that they may have strayed.  For it is that many, even those who are Anglican or Old Roman Catholics who are truly Christian having not strayed from the roots so much as their theology is different in approach. 

    Look to the spirit of each individual, not to the political doctrinization of a jurisdiction and you may be surprised at what a blessing that individual may bring about.

October 2004

George (Montana):  (Oct. 25, 2004)

Bless Father... I am concerned about the Protestant's invasion of truth concerning the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.  Is this not a heretical teaching?

Father Thaddeus replies:

   You are blessed by the fact that you ask a most important question.  The ancient Church, especially the "Orthodox" Catholic as it is known today, which is the roots of that which has separated itself (Roman Jurisdiction's schism of 1054) ... has always taught that the second coming has already happened.

   Jesus Christ came into the world as the Word of God.  That was His first coming.  He ascended into Heaven and before he left this world, he made Apostles which became, by the power of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost as sent by the Father because of Jesus Christ.... established the Church as the Body of Christ. 

  This "Body of Christ" is His second coming!  This is something many Protestants and even, now-a-days, some Orthodox, have failed to understand because they have allowed themselves to depart from the faith once delivered.

Father Gregori (NY): (Oct. 10, 2004)

Greetings and blessings to you Fr. Nguyen,

    I hope that you don't mind, but from your name, I shall assume that you are a Vietnamese/American, so let me say: "Chao ong. Ong manh Khong?"

    My purpose for this e-mail letter is to add to Archbishop Thaddeus's answer to your question of "What are the significant ingredients for priests and nuns?"  Besides having a very strong prayer life, I feel that the most significant ingredient needed for the formation, of not just a good priest or nun, but a Great priest or nun, is a "Spirit of Obedience". By this, I mean obedience to the rules of their individual religious orders to which they be-long, as well as to their religious superiors and the canons of their Church.

    It is sad that in today's world, so many individuals who enter the religious life, want the Church and the religous orders to change to suit "the times", or their own individual desires, wants or wishes, especially here in America.

    Many years ago (1980), I had the great privilege and honor to meet Archbishop Ngo Dinh Thuc, of blessed memory, at a small Franciscan monastery in Rochester, NY. We talked for sometime about the spirit of obedience and how so many in religious life today, seem to lack it. There are times, when one should question those in charge, especially if those in charge are teaching things that are against the dogmas and traditions of the Church as handed down by the Church Fathers and Holy Scripture.

    Much of the disobedience that I have seen, on the part of members of the clergy and nuns, has been in the form of refusal to wear distinctive clerical garb, wanting to take part in all sorts of worldly pursuits, many of which are totally unbecoming for those in religious life, etc.

    It all comes down to the old saying; "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen". No one, be they members of the clergy, a religious community, or members of the laity, should try to force the Church or their religious order to change to fit the "times" or their particular whims. The individual MUST conform to the Church and to the  Will of God.

Sincerely,

Very Rev. Fr. +Gregori,SSJt - Abbot

Father Nguyen (California): (Oct. 5, 2004)

    Bless Eminence.  What are the most significant ingredients for monks and nuns? 

Father Thaddeus replies:

    The most important ingredients is to read a chapter of the Holy Bible, especially the New Testament and Old Testament Psalms, each and every day.  Spend time in prayer, meditating and contemplating Holy Scripture's meaning in your life, in your community.  Read in sequential form, the Rule of Life for the Holy Order one belongs to, again, pray, contemplate and meditate on the significance of such Rules for one's day to day life both spiritually and materially.  Only by prayer and the aide of Holy Spirit can one come to such an understanding.  Read and pray not as the Romans do... but as those who are truly Orthodox, with the spirit.  Readings should never be in the form or with the mind of scholasticism or the disease of "correctness" but by the Holy Spirit which avoids such paths... and piques the heart, the very soul.  Follow the practice of daily offices where possible for some cannot do all the daily offices and normally have the blessing of one's spiritual father to accommodate other schedules out of necessity. 

Father Conrad (Wisconsin): (Oct. 5, 2004)

    A Blessing Eminence.  How can one be "expelled" from a Benedictine Community?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    First one has to belong to a Benedictine Community in a specific locale!  I believe I know where your thoughts are going, or have gone.  I was never a member of a Benedictine Community in another north-eastern state of the U.S..  I was a visitor!  I was never a part of a Benedictine Community other than the one established by ourselves in California and then, later, here in New Mexico. 

    While it is not normally allowed for a Benedictine Stavrophore Monk to be a part of two different religious Holy Orders, it is, under special circumstances, allowed.  I was given, prior to the establishment of the Benedictine Community in California and here in New Mexico, granted irrevocable permission to belong to two Religious Holy Orders for special cause.

Brother Seraphim (California): Oct. 4, 2004

    Your Blessings Eminence.  I belong to the religious community in Monterey-Santa Clara County you established with Father Nugyen.  I would like to know why you advocate Bishop-Abbot, Dom +Donald Weeks as being Anglican Orthodox and is he not a part of that jurisdiction?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    You are blessed indeed.  Dom +Donald Weeks, OSB has come a very long, hard and difficult path in life.  He has progressed to the degree that the basic articles of faith of the Anglican communion, for him, have changed in his life.  He believes in the Real Presence in the Eucharist.  He believes in the Seals of the Confessional.  He is a man for Truth!  He is a man who has walked the walk and talked the talk, as street ministers would say.  He has borne the hardships that come with such a spiritual and material territory.  There are many other things I could say, but alas... room here does not provide. 

    The very term and nomenclature of "Anglican Orthodox" is both a jurisdiction and a descriptive phrase.  He is not a part of the jurisdiction called the "Anglican Orthodox Church" but is very much a part of the descriptive term "Anglican Orthodox" as is his "American Congregation of Saint Benedict (ACSB)".   He has brought many to the fold over the years, decades, who are beholden to him as their spiritual father. 

    Remember the saying at the very entry page of "apostle1" "The true Orthodox Catholic Christian Church is large enough to accommodate various  theologies that are not diametrically opposed to the faith and morals taught by the Apostolic Church."  With this in mind, might I remind many of you that during my seven and a half years sabbatical, a compact agreement had been made by the former Bishop holding the reigns of the AOC until my return and re-in vesture, by vote, as Primate, and in which Bishop (Dom) +Weeks, OSB had been made a part of the Holy Synod of the AOC.  He was never "officially" removed and remains as a member in spite of all the negativity between the persons of himself and ourselves.  The very fact of his change in theology and practice invigorates the Church and this jurisdiction as a whole.  Also remember, We do not subscribe to the heresy of false (Synchrestic) Ecumenism, inter-faith worship, Cultural Paradosis, Neo Papism, or Modernism, the same as also Dom +Weeks becries.

Charlotte (Michigan): Oct. 1, 2004

    Eminence, your blessing.  What is the position of the Orthodox jurisdictions of the Catholic Church regarding the Apocrypha (Revelation of John), the Nag Hamadi library, and the Dead Sea Scrolls?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    The Church (East and West) have always accepted the Apocrypha! 

    As to the Nag Hamadi Library and Dead Sea Scrolls... if they are to be read... read them with the spirit of discernment which may be gained by dutiful prayer beforehand.  For they are considered, at this time, to be no different than reading most any other book from the shelves of a local store.

        Until all jurisdictions of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church (East and West) have sat together and prayed for the Holy Spirit at such a convocation from which the Church discusses and decides those other manuscripts, they are to be counted as any other secular writing.  Those manuscripts may indeed include names of the Holy Apostles, but so do many secular writings... and therefore they are not to be counted among those worthy of being called "Holy". 

        When reading such manuscripts named, the reader may obtain some things rather spiritual in part, but not as counted by the Church as wholly worthy in themselves.

Georgio (Texas): (Oct. 1, 2004)

    Bless Father!  I have heard many things and seen many things and yet I have not heard and seen all things.  But, what I have seen and heard of and about you is considerate over a time span of years.  I met you when the now reposed Bishop +O'Connor was alive in Seaside, California, after you had raised him up from the priestly ranks. 

    Your web site, by the accounts of some people, is to busy, busy, busy!  And your spirit is only partially reflected in it.  That last sentence is said from personal knowledge about you.  Others believe that they gain an understanding of and about you by your web site.  They believe you are to wordy and answer things that require no answer or should not be answered because it is not the "Orthodox" thing to do.  Some have said you are to wrapped up with being the "Metropolitan Archbishop" and not that of being just a Priest and Monk.  They say that is akin to 'Pontificating'.  As for myself, I am one with you.  But, how would you respond to the rest?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    Shall I respond with, "I spend at least an intermittent three hours or more in daily prayer".   My concern is God and His children.  Might I add that His children come from a variety of backgrounds and levels of education or no education.  What can be said with few words for some, must be said with more words for others in order to either answer a question or to get a point across.  So should I respond with the fact that I have many other sins about me too and would you like to hear them?  This is not being defense... this is a fact!  If that is 'Pontificating' then I sin!  There goes my two gun western mentality of approach... I sin because God needs no defense, just the people who need answers too!

Archive of "Quotes from Father Thaddeus"

September 2004

P. Mikelsen (Nevada): Sept. 26, 2004

    The question and reply from Monk Nguyen is rather interesting.  My wife and I visited a friend of mine in Michigan during the summer months and was introduced to someone who is supposed to be a Schema-monk.  I found his attitude and approach to be less than that of a Schema-monk, as he showed himself to be puffed up with pride, envy and the very basic things of this world normally rejected by true monks, especially those who have suffered with spiritual struggle in their lives for the world to come.  This man is committing spiritual fraud.  He talked much with words that are Orthodox, but his ideas, coupled with his body language were very Roman Catholic, even there rather popish and pontificating.  He said much about the faults of others.  What kind of man had I encountered?

    I used to be a part of a rather large Orthodox brotherhood where I was in contact with a true Schema-monk.  I learned much during my ten years experience with them.  I also met monks from other monastic communities, even other Schema-Monks.  I am still very much Orthodox, but returned, with a blessing from my spiritual father, to the outside world many years ago so that I could marry.  Do your monks and nuns follow or practice the Orthodox tradition of monastics?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    We struggle with those things spiritual in our desire to rise up the Ladder of Divine Ascent.  We are not perfected yet!  We have not arrived yet!  But, prayer, contemplation and meditation along with Divine Liturgy is a daily practice that binds us together.  We are few in number here in this part of New Mexico.  We have become like Desert Fathers. 

    No one can be a true Schema-Monk unless he has met the requirements for such a high spiritual office, including the time requirement for testing of both his spirit and his resolve.  As you know, it is not something accomplished overnight, not in two years, not in five years, not necessarily in ten years... lest of all a Schema-monk!

    Anyone who is unable to meet such requirements as Orthodox communities have long established is not a true Schema-monk!

    There are few who have met a real Schema-Monk... Yet... with what you know, understand and as to those whom you have met... you know more than most about what a true Schema-monk is all about... and you are blessed by that!

B. D. Schwartz (Ontario, Canada): Sept. 25, 2004

    Dear Father, your blessing.  My local priest, Roman Catholic, has remarked in a private conversation with me (he's my drinking buddy) that he has not seen only a few articles at your web site authored by you.  He wonders why you don't write more?  Do you?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    As a Benedictine, even a Thaddean Companion, we do not believe that we are the authors of anything but what God is the author of all things.  All things that have ever been said, or could be said, in writing articles; has already been said and done.  That which you view or see is nothing more than the same thing presented in a different manner for the needs of the changing times in which people find themselves both culturally, geographically, etc.

    The Glory is to God, not to man!

Father Nguyen (California): (Sept. 22. 2004)

    Bless Father.  When a priest or a monk comes to me, or anyone else, with physical tears and words of repentance, seeking forgiveness... I know that as a monk, I must forgive.  But when the same person is found to have 'acted' as a means to gain sway... which is a false repentance, how should I respond?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    They doubled and tripled their sins. First: because it was a false repentance.  Second: because they misused and abused the gifts of God.  Third: because they have surely entrusted their soul to the gates of hell without remorse for harming the Church herself which is a sin against the Holy Spirit... in short... they blasphemed the Holy Spirit which is the one unforgivable sin.  If it were truly a monk, or even a priest or for that matter a bishop... May God have mercy on their immortal soul for they have sown their own doom in both this life and the next for the sin of blasphemy. 

    If they come to you again with physical tears of so-called repentance... shun them, turn them away... offer them no help either spiritually or materially for their sin is an unforgivable one that no man, be he monk or priest, cannot forgive... They have doomed themselves, whether a monk, stavrophore monk, even a schema monk.  We too know of a few who fit a similar image that you have portrayed in your question.   It would seem to appear that these false acts of repentance have multiplied in the ranks of clergy of every degree throughout the whole Church.  What the Evil One has caused and brought about will not go unpaid.  It might be best the renounce their Ecclesial positions and authorities, return themselves to lay status and cut off all communication with those who are truly trying to maintain the faith in spirit and truth.  For to continue themselves as clergy of any degree, especially on an unsuspecting society is to continue to further themselves in digging a greater pit from which there is no escape in the eyes of God.

Father Lazarus (Michigan): (Sept. 21, 2004)

   Your Blessing Eminence.  Although I am not a part of your jurisdiction, my religious superior has stated that you, as expressed by your web site, has taken a dramatic change for the good.  However, I have noticed that the information on the Yuri Spaeth Lines of Succession that were originally posted on your "Quotes from Father Thaddeus" is no longer available.  You had posted the fact that those who had consecrated yourself, who had been consecrated by Yuri Spaeth, were co-consecrated by a female bishop under the name of Zacharius.  How do you view this truth which is known in the Ukraine?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    Because of the taint of a female bishop, the lines are valid but illicit. 

To: Father Conrad of Florida, Mr. Williams, and to any one else who had been posted as regards their September 2004 e-mail questions and replies concerning allegations out of Florida and New York, we have removed them as a result of recent developments for the sake of one bishop whose health is in jeopardy, so we are apprised.

    Although the e-mail we received contained much misinformation, outright lies and twisting of facts to suit the sender's own empirical ends concerning us and our jurisdiction, we were able to verify the causative factor involved for sending us the e-mail and visited the individual bishop here in New Mexico about which the primary purpose of it was concerning; and are temporarily satisfied with our findings, accompanied by another bishop.

    To make a more proper understanding of recent developments, might it be said in more secularistic terms... "I would not turn any one away who is in serious pain or having serious health problems be they spiritual, mental, emotional or physical, but would extend a helping hand to them, even if they be one's opponent or enemy.  For all are truly "children of God"... even clergy!"  Thus, the modification of this "quotes" page to accommodate those who need more peace of mind in order to handle their daily existence.  This is the Christ-like thing to do. 

    However, in saying all that we have thus far said, we will not give in to further intimidation, coercion, fraud and attempts to blackmail us because the Orthodox Church Catholic is not for sale, so-to-speak, and the various jurisdictions such as this one, will not be controlled by any one individual who has made him or their selves a pontificating patriarch who has no standing in the true Orthodox Catholic Christian Church East or West.

+Joseph Thaddeus, OSB, SSJt., Ph.D.

Metropolitan Archbishop - Abbot - Primate

American Orthodox Church

North American Orthodox Church

Father Benjamin (Utah): (Sept. 14, 2004)

    I recall having seen something on your web site about a Synod/Conference in 2005.  Is this still definitely planned and will it be held?  Exactly where and when?  And, to whom will it be open to?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    The Synod Conference is open only to those who send in requests showing who they are and to what jurisdiction they belong.  It does not matter if they be Old Catholic, Independent Catholic, Orthodox, Anglican... etc.... only that they be of the Catholic Confession.  However, in saying this... they will have to disclose full particulars about themselves and their jurisdiction. 

    A small entry fee, to be announced, will have to be included to cover any expected outlay of expenses.  The various subjects, guest speakers, etc. will be made known on our web site.  Of course, the primary theme will always be from the "Orthodox" perspective...

    Once we receive such information, along with the entry fee, we will send out by U.S. Postal Service (Snail Mail) a special invitation credential exclusive to the individual applying and not transferable.  Identification tags will be supplied.  The place and time will yet be announced.  Other information for hotels, motels, RV parks, restaurants, etc. will also be provided.

    Without proper credentials as supplied by us, no one else will be able to gain entrance to the Synod/Conference.

    Keep coming back to this web site for a special announcement in the months to come.

Mr. Donavon (Maine): (Sept. 14, 2004)

    Your Eminence, your blessing.  I have watched your web site for many years now and have to ask.  Would you recommend Archbishop Donald Weeks and his Anglican Benedictine to other inquirers? If so, why?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    May be I am being a bit harsh, but you said that you have watched this web site for many years now.  I would have thought you had also noticed our explanations for the change.  He has become, unknowing to himself I believe, more orthodox in his Anglican approach.  While there are differences in his theology, they are not sufficient to argue about because of our own attitudes concerning other jurisdictions.  If you haven't noticed, our "home page" as you enter this web site says in rather sufficient terms:

"The true Orthodox Catholic Christian Church is large enough to accommodate various  theologies that are not diametrically opposed to the faith and morals taught by the Apostolic Church."

    I would not only recommend, but encourage and endorse any one and everyone who can, to join in support of Archbishop Donald Weeks' endeavors.  Provide him material and spiritual support.

Mr. Young (Alaska): (Sept. 13, 2004)

    Father, your blessings.  What happened to your prisoner/inmate web page work?

Father Thaddeus replies:

    I have not given up on that special project so much as I have found that with myself and several of us... getting older, we have had to redirect our priorities here. We have also found that there was little response and that most of the prisons are so infected with the various heresies of false Christianity, that is a mind-boggle almost like walking through a mined field of bombs... that it became all the more difficult. 

    Balancing one's responsibilities and duties with other projects and issues is in itself rather difficult.

    I thank you for your concern and I pray that there will be other more energetic and robust Orthodox Catholic Clergy who would take on this special project for indeed it will take those who have the patience of a saint and one who can be both champion and warrior to continue in the special struggle of dealing with the prisoner-inmate issues.  I would be more than happy to aid or assist those who would truly desire to engage themselves in this special work for many a good mind and spirit imprisoned behind the Wire and the Wall are going to waste.  It is a vast resource for eventual spiritual growth in the Church.

Mrs. Abramson (Tennessee): (Sept. 13, 2004)

    Your Blessings Father.  My fifteen year old son and I are recently by ourselves after I went through a very rough divorce from my former husband of thirteen years.  The cause of the divorce surrounded his bi-sexuality and noticeably, his predominate pattern toward youth and young adults.  He's in prison now.  My son was not directly affected by his father's sexuality.  That is, he was not molested.  During the course of the investigation and trial, several youth, both male and female, came forward and testified against my husband. 

    Now I am going through therapy through the local county services but I find it is somehow lacking in aiding me and my son.

    I have a sense or feeling that my neighbors have turned against me even though they say kind words.  How can I really deal with this for the sake of both my son, who also feels the same as I do about our neighbors, and myself as I feel myself cracking since the divorce and prison sentence of my former husband? 

Father Thaddeus replies:

[Addendum: in reply to your e-mail the following came to us from another viewer 9/16/04 and we also agree with this: I have yet to find any secular psychiatrist, psychotherapist or whatever other nomenclature they choose to be licensed under, who has ever cured anybody. They are one of the few who make huge sums of money for doing absolutely nothing. Yes, an Orthodox clergyman is the best person to go to, as just about all (if not all) emotional and so-called psychiatric problems have a spiritual basis, thus an ordained priest is much better qualified to handle such situations, and in many cases without the use of drugs.]

    My dear mother and son... how can I respond regarding such traumatic events in your life?  I can pray for both of you.  But, I know that will not be enough. 

    It is good that you are going through therapy.  However, I would suggest extreme caution because you might end up viewing all persons of such sexual persuasions in the same manner as you look or view your husband which would be the worst thing to do.  Yet, I would also caution you about therapy and therapists because the majority of them are themselves the victims of the very governments they work for which is very secularistic and fail or refuse to honor or even respect the faith teachings under which one has been raised or subscribes to.  For Orthodox Catholic Christians this all the more true because secularism in government, even down through and to therapists, is filled with ideas and attitudes whereby they, whether intentional or not, attempt to persuade an individual away from the roots of true Christian Faith by imbuing a person with thoughts and feelings opposed to those roots.  It would more often than not, be best for an individual going through therapy to go to their minister, pastor or priest especially if they are Orthodox Catholic than to stay in the hands of a therapist.  Government and secularism go hand-n-hand.

    Not all people of various persuasions are of the alternate lifestyle as your husband - - - meaning, not all of them 'feed' on youth. 

    I say "feed" only because every sexually active individual, whether clergy or not, has a tendency toward what I term as "feeding" because the desire and fulfillment of that desire is like a "feeding frenzy" in which they do not get enough to satisfy their hunger.  They must be prayed for at all times and at all cost, especially if you know anyone of that nature, such as your husband.  But those whom I am referring to are both men and women of every walk of life who are infected with the entertainment mentality seen or viewed in the electronic news media, the television programs, etc.   Some of those very people are clergy who have failed or refused to take responsibility for their actions of the past or present and I know of several.

    One of the strongest armaments you could provide yourself and your son is to get deeply involved in an Orthodox Catholic community of people, attending Divine Liturgy, being involved in both the prayer life of a local parish, Orthodox bible study and going often to confession and finally... to partake of the Holy Mysteries which fortifies and strengthens both the spirit and nurtures a healing with the salve of His Love