Orthodox Christian Questions and Answers Cleveland Parish

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

Wedding ceremony rings

Social and Moral Issues

What is the Orthodox Church’s stance on same-sex marriages?

Priest giving a blessing during worship

During an office break we were discussing whether a soldier who lost his right arm/hand in battle could salute by using his left hand. During this same conversation I mentioned that you had once said that a man cannot be a priest if he is missing a finger. Now maybe that was in context that if he is not a yet a priest and is missing a finger he cannot become a priest. But, I recall you saying that he cannot properly give a blessing without all his points. Someone then posed the question, can a priest be a priest if he losses a finger after being ordained? Can he have a prosthetic finger?

Historical scene representing biblical teaching

Periodically we hear about “lawyers” in the New Testament. Are these lawyers similar to those we have today? And if not, what did they do?

Exterior view of a Christian church building with architectural details visible.

Social and Moral Issues

I have heard twice in the recent past where people have referred to Roman Catholics as not being Christians. How can this be? Here is one of the actual conversations. “What religion are you? I'm Catholic. Oh, I thought you were a Christian.”

Piece of wood resting on a flat surface, representing materials associated with incense or worship traditions.

What is Frankincense?

Person reflecting during prayer

Orthodox Plaschinitsa cloth depicting the burial of Christ

What does the word “Plaschinitsa” actually mean?

Life-saving ring floating in the sea, symbolizing rescue, hope, and salvation.

What does the word “Hosanna” mean?

Historical illustration of a Roman centurion

What is a centurion?

Curtain and cross symbolizing Christ’s sacrifice

Faith Great Lent

Can you explain why the curtain in the temple was torn when Jesus died on the Cross?

Medical professional reviewing documents

Social and Moral Issues

What is the Orthodox Church’s position on autopsies?

Cracked eggshell resting on a surface, symbolizing themes of life and human development.

Social and Moral Issues

What does the Orthodox Church teach about abortion?

Empty wheelchair positioned indoors, representing mobility assistance and accessibility.

What is a paralytic?

Star of David symbol

Why do the Jews use a “star” as a symbol of their faith?

Biblical scene representing Christ’s arrest

During the time of Christ’s arrest, who is the man who runs away naked?

Lenten reflection and prayer

Great Lent Worship

If Great Lent is 40 days long for both the Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches, why does our Lent begin on a Monday, and theirs on a Wednesday?

Traditional foods prepared before Great Lent

Great Lent Worship

Why do we have a “Fast-free Week,” “Meat Fare Week,” and a “Cheese Fare Week.” prior to the start of Great Lent?

Snake coiled in a dramatic scene, symbolizing temptation and spiritual struggle.

I know that Lucifer is the name of the angel who rebelled against God and was cast out of Heaven, but why do we call him “Satan” and/or the “Devil?”

Person walking away symbolizing the Prodigal Son

My favorite parable is the Prodigal Son, but what does the word “prodigal” actually mean?

Historical illustration of a biblical tax collector

What is a Publican?

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