Catholic School vs. Greek Orthodox School

[kazi94]

We always thought that our children would go to Catholic School. It was never a question, but we where encouraged to apply to several schools because of the competitiveness of private schools in the area we live. Our child got into the Catholic School as well as the Greek Orthodox School. After doing some research the Greek Orthodox School in our area seems to have better academics and after talking to some parents we realized that many of the children in the school are catholic. As long as we send our child to CCD would it be okay to send them to the Greek Orthodox School? What is the difference between Greek Orthodox and Catholic beliefs?

 

[joeybaggz]

We always thought that our children would go to Catholic School. It was never a question, but we where encouraged to apply to several schools because of the competitiveness of private schools in the area we live. Our child got into the Catholic School as well as the Greek Orthodox School. After doing some research the Greek Orthodox School in our area seems to have better academics and after talking to some parents we realized that many of the children in the school are catholic. As long as we send our child to CCD would it be okay to send them to the Greek Orthodox School? What is the difference between Greek Orthodox and Catholic beliefs?

I would think a Greek Orthodox School with fine academics would be fine; at least as good as the average public school in today’s society. And you are the first teacher of your children. At their Baptism, you promised as parents (and Godparents) to bring you child up in the Faith. That is a responsibility you can’t just slough off on a school.

As to the difference between Roman and Greek Orthodox,it is my understanding that the core of the faith is pretty much the same, it’s just some of the practices are different (i.e. Greek Ortho priests are permitted to marry, vestments are different, the church calendar is a bit different - and they don’t recognize the Bishop of Rome (Pope) as the leader of the church, although I believe they have respect for him. I’s say much of the difference between East and West is political in nature.

I would say however that if the difference in academics between the Catholic and the Greek Orthodox school isn’t all that overwhelming, I’d choose the Catholic school - if it were me.

In any case, do what you think is best, and if you choose Greek, make sure your child does attend CCD, and I suggest you take an active part in that part of your children’s education.

Shalom

 

[Anglewannabe]

Well… I don’t know where you live, but in Canada, Catholic schools are nothing but a joke. If a teacher decides to live with his/her same sex partner, she is allowed to tell the kids about it and can not be fired.

My opinion is to send your kid to the best academic school and teach them the faith at home. It is a mistake to assume an institution would do a good job. Like everything else, some institutions are good Catholics and some aren’t