[KixdricyArrip]

I believe there is a need for Orthodox people living within the same area, from different jurisdiction to unite and fellowship, get to know each other and grow in the faith. I mean the Greek churches , Russian, Antiochian, etc.

I would like to know if there are groups like that in America and how exactly does one go about to start a group.

I have attempted to start a group by inviting some people from other churches to attend a spiritual event that I organized at my church, and when I ask them to represent their church and get together and plan future events, they are reluctant to join.

Any ideas as to what to do?

thank you!

[sharpyure]

A forum dedicated to Orthodox unity in America at: St. Andrew House Discussion Forum. Beyond that it is an uphill battle. Many people do not look beyond/outside the parish.

[TeNuaTe]

Orthodox Christian Fellowship is such a group, with official standing under SCOBA (the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas); however, it's specifically targeted for campus ministry.

Theodora - OrthodoxWiki has a page for Pan-Orthodox Organizations; you should add yours to it!

[JonnLeejsp]

Here is our Pan-Orthodox collaboration in Houston. It is mostly run by our area clergy.

Paul

PS: As of this date, you can see my priest of blessed memory.

[AdobebePhoto]

A group of Orthodox Christians in and around Grand Rapids, MI, are in the process of starting a pan-Orthodox group to coordinate charitable work between our six parishes. The name of the group is GROCCO: Grand Rapids Orthodox Christian Charitable Outreach. We also have a pan-Orthodox social group for people between the ages of 20 and 40, although its activities are starting to decline in number. In addition to this, we have OCF chapters at several local colleges.

Jeremy

[MadMark]

What are some of the things that a Pan-Orthodox group would do? How would it function?

[RBJamez]

Some things a Pan-Orthodox group might do:

1. promote a common understanding of the teachings of the Church
2. promote awareness of pan-Orthodox efforts.
3. share insights on how Orthodox Unity might be achieved
4. share our cultural diversity to better understand each other
5. learn to appreciate differing customs formed in the common understanding of the Church, overcome cultural bigotry
6. investigate opportunities for common and coordinated activities

Or so it seems to this bear of little brain.
Herman the Pooh

[Gromiaaborn]

7. Start laying the ground work for a single bishop in a single city by doing away with the Pan and just trying to BE Orthodox.

[Grarypealumma]

I believe there is a need for Orthodox people living within the same area, from different jurisdiction to unite and fellowship, get to know each other and grow in the faith. I mean the Greek churches , Russian, Antiochian, etc.

I would like to know if there are groups like that in America and how exactly does one go about to start a group.

Eugenia, yesterday I encountered a group like that, although formed for a particular purpose: the Spirit of Orthodoxy Choir. Their Web site is here: http://www.spiritoforthodoxy.com/aboutus.html

They are Orthodox from different jurisdictions. They are, quite literally, showing how harmonious the jurisdictions can be! It was a wonderful concert.

[creewespock]

Thanks Timothy!
I will check them out.
Eugenia

And thank you all for your ideas. much appreciated!