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Questions and Answers

A collection of popular questions and answers, provided by Fr. John Memorich

spilledblood

What is the difference between Orthodoxy vs. Catholicism?

candles

Why Do We Light Candles?

Orthodox Church

What is Orthodoxy?

calendar

Julian vs. Gregorian Calendar

easter

Why Are Easters on Different Dates?

Orthodox Church

What is the proper way to enter the church? I see a lot of people doing a lot of different things. What should we actually do?

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How late is 'too late' to get to Church for Divine Liturgy in order to receive Communion?

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Why are children baptized on or near the fortieth day after birth?

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I keep noticing on the church calendar that there are a series of “tones” listed for each week. What are these?

John Memorich

I have a Protestant friend who insists that we should not be addressing our priests as ‘Father.’ He quotes the following verse from St. Matthew’s gospel to support his view: “Call no man your father upon the earth: for one is Your Father Who is in heaven” (23:9). How did our tradition of calling a priest “Father” begin? And please, explain this verse.

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In our services I often hear the phrase “oneness of mind,” yet how is it possible for believers to be of the same mind? How can we think alike? How can we be unanimous? How can we be in total agreement?

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Where in the Bible does one find justification for the clergy to forgive the sins of people?

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What is a parable?

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If someone chooses, is it permissible for Orthodox Christians to be married outside of the church – like in a park, on the beach, or on a mountain?

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When should we begin or start our fast prior to receiving Holy Communion?

Confession

Can anyone force a priest to reveal sins told to him during Confession?

Church Communion

Are we supposed to fold our arms when we come to Communion, and if so, why? I see some people who do, and some people who don’t? What is proper?

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As hard as I try to hold on to my faith, I sometimes go through periods of doubt. Can you give me any advice?

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Why is it not appropriate to come to the Sacrament of Confession on Sunday mornings before Divine Liturgy?

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Social and Moral Issues

What is our Church’s view on tattooing and body piercing?

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