Essay Published by Holy Trinity Monastery Warns of Doctrinal Confusion Amid Ecumenical Practices
Statement from Bp. Luke of Syracuse criticizes intercommunion and joint services as violations of Church tradition and sources of confusion among the faithful.
JORDANVILLE, NY — Holy Trinity Monastery of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR) has published an essay which raises concerns over recent ecumenical practices, warning that certain actions by Orthodox clergy risk undermining long-standing Church teachings on unity and sacramental participation.
The essay challenges the view that those separated from the Church—described as heretics or schismatics—remain within its body, asserting that such positions contradict the teachings of the Holy Fathers. It emphasizes that, according to tradition, individuals outside the Church should not receive the Mysteries, and that any deviation from this principle violates clerical vows to safeguard their sanctity.
An intro from Bp. Luke of Syracuse states:
"Ecumenists propose that heretics and schismatics who have separated themselves from the Church have somehow remained her members and that the Body has not been divided. However, it is forbidden according to the Holy Fathers to allow those outside the Church to receive the Mysteries. Any decision contrary to this is arbitrary and violates the vow made by clergy to preserve the Mysteries from profanation. Nonetheless Orthodox clergy are communing Monophysites (Coptic Orthodox and others) without previously separating them from their heresy and uniting them to the Church."
His Grace also highlights recent interfaith and inter-Christian gatherings, including a joint prayer service held in Iznik, Turkey, on November 28, 2025, involving Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Coptic, and Protestant participants. Such events, he argues, blur doctrinal boundaries established by the Ecumenical Councils.
"We offer below a thoughtful essay in defense of the Orthodox position as encouragement for those who love the Truth and hunger and thirst for righteousness' sake," Bp. Luke's preamble concludes.
The full essay can be read here.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Bp. Luke wrote on the spiritual dangers of artificial intelligence.
