Welcome to my set of reflections on Italian Orthodox Christianity and life in Melbourne.
"Within my Father's House there are many rooms."
Increasingly in Australia, there is a hunger for a version of Christianity, while adhering to the eternal orthodoxies we have inherited from the Fathers and Mothers of the Church, which sees the need for Church must updated itself to be relevant to the Modern World. As Jesus says in his famous discourse at the Last Supper, there are many rooms in the one heaven. I believe that Italian Orthodoxy, with its particular emphasis and Byzantine heritage can serve those of Italian background in the communities of Australia.
Italian Orthodoxy is situated within the Orthodox traditions of Constantinople. The Italian peninsula was a vital part of the Byzantine Empire, as can be seen in such places as Ravenna, Grotta Ferrata, Cefalu, Monreale and Bari. In more modern times, the Orthodox Church is becoming an increasing presence in Italy, largely through immigration from Eastern Europe, but also from those Italians who are seeking a deeper walk into the mysteries of God and who wish to embrace their ancient roots in a more authentic Christian vision.
I am starting this blog to convey my ideas and thoughts on how we may see the foundation of an Italian Orthodoxy here in Australia, not in competition with any particular jurisdiction, but rather to service the needs of those here, who like their counterparts in the Motherland, find that they want a deeper spirituality and expression of their Christian faith.
