someguy wrote:can the more learned answer the below for me;
does true orthodox generally endorse no communion unless re chrismation into "their" truth is done prior, in regards to an orthodox heretic?
does true orthodox generally say do not attend any other churches even mainstream orthodox and true orthodox parishes, if yes even for a funeral, death of family member?
does true orthodox generally allow heretics to witness mysteries, if no even for a baptism / wedding of a catechum's family?
does true orthodox generally forbid dancing / music, if yes even the traditional kind as in no sleazy modern types?
1. True Orthodox Churches will either chrismate or baptize a person who desires to be received into communion with their synod. They do not believe in open communion. The G.O.C. is very strict in how a baptism is done. For instance, every hair and every limb of the body must be completely submerged three times unless a baptism is done in an emergency and the patient cannot be removed from their deathbed. In that case, they may be sprinkled, and the baptism does not need to be repeated if they should survive.
2. True Orthodox Churches do not want parishioners to attend World Orthodox churches or other synods who call themselves True Orthodox as we are not to pray with those who are heretics or schismatics. Attending a funeral of a relative is an ask your priest question. Generally permission is granted, but we are told not to give a eulogy or participate in any of public prayers. However, we can pray privately for their souls that they may be saved somehow.
3. True Orthodox generally will allow a heretic or schismatic to witness mysteries, but they are usually asked to stay in the Narthex during a Divine Liturgy, baptism, chrismation, wedding, or funeral. In addition, they are not allowed to come into the Nave and partake of the antidoron, nor are members permitted to take a piece of antidoron and give it to non-members or those who are not in good standing. Again, these are questions that must be asked of the priest, especially if non-Orthodox, heretical, or schismatic family members are coming to the baptism, chrismation, wedding, or funeral of an Orthodox Christian.
4. Modern secular music is not recommended. Listen to the words and you will understand. Neither is modern dancing as most of it is now quite dirty, and yes, quite sleazy. However, older traditional Greek, Russian, Georgian, Romanian, Bulgarian, etc. dances at a wedding may or may not be allowed. It is an ask the priest type of question. Nevertheless, chanters, readers, subdeacons, deacons, priests, and bishops should not dance even at a wedding. Usually members of the clergy who are attending weddings will leave just prior to the beginning of the dance if there is a dance.
