Ukrainian Orthodoxy		Orthodoxie ukrainienne

Conversion

Question:

I'm a Roman Catholic considering conversion to the Orthodox Faith.  I've read some articles on the internet and am confused as to whether I need to  bere-baptized.  Do you consider baptism in the Latin rite invalid?

I'm planing to attend my very first mass in your Faith and was wondering if I would be allowed to receive the Eucharist or do I need to go through some sort  of training first?

Answer:

Very Reverend Ihor Kutash kutash@unicorne.org

Most Orthodox Bishops do most certainly accept the validity of Baptism in the Catholic Communion. Converts are usually received through the Mysteries of Confession and Communion, although some also require Chrismation (the Orthodox term for Confirmation).

The Eucharist is offered to Orthodox communicants, although exceptions are sometimes made by "ekonomeia" whereby a rule or practice is relaxed for the good of the person which the Pastor is nurturing without suspending or watering down that rule or practice of which the appropriateness has been seen and confirmed for millenia.

Thus it would seem to be best for you to study, reflect, inquire and attend worship without receiving Communion for the time being until - and if - you become convinced that embracing Orthodoxy is indeed your choice. Such choices are only valid if they are made freely and with profound conviction. Otherwise it might be best for you remain a communicant of the Catholic Church for now, albeit with an appreciation and love for the wonderful treasures and testimony of the Christian East.

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