Joining a new tradition?

[_Melita]

Hello all. I’m a cradle catholic (latin rite) and have nothing but the deepest respect and love for our traditions and devotions, but have recently (over the last year or so) felt myself ‘pulled’ towards the eastern tradition. I think it all started when I first read the writing of Saint Seraphim and began exploring ikons. My question is, what more reading should I do to deepen my understanding? And is it acceptable to attend their liturgy with an eye to perhaps forming part of that community (and how should one even go about doing such a thing)? Thank you.

 

[Addai]

Hello all. I’m a cradle catholic (latin rite) and have nothing but the deepest respect and love for our traditions and devotions, but have recently (over the last year or so) felt myself ‘pulled’ towards the eastern tradition. I think it all started when I first read the writing of Saint Seraphim and began exploring ikons. My question is, what more reading should I do to deepen my understanding? And is it acceptable to attend their liturgy with an eye to perhaps forming part of that community (and how should one even go about doing such a thing)? Thank you.

Well “The Orthodox way” is highly recommended not only by EO and Orientals, but also Byzantine Catholics.

amazon.com/Orthodox-Way-Kallistos-Ware/dp/0913836583

This book is also recommended if you are up for something that is more challenging.

amazon.com/Being-Communion-Personhood-Contemporary-Theologians/dp/0881410292

 

[guanophore]

Hello all. I’m a cradle catholic (latin rite) and have nothing but the deepest respect and love for our traditions and devotions, but have recently (over the last year or so) felt myself ‘pulled’ towards the eastern tradition. I think it all started when I first read the writing of Saint Seraphim and began exploring ikons. My question is, what more reading should I do to deepen my understanding? And is it acceptable to attend their liturgy with an eye to perhaps forming part of that community (and how should one even go about doing such a thing)? Thank you.

This is the same thing that happened to me! Except, it was the Philokalia. It helped me to do some research on the Eastern Rites first. The closest community to me is Byzantine (Ruthenian) and I wanted to understand the history. I attended Divine Liturgy a few times, and introduced myself to the priest. I found the community much smaller, inclusive,and friendlier than any of the Latin parishes in my area. I was invited to lunch, and a study group,and I was on my way.

After a period of exploration, you can investigate changing Rites. This involves contacting your bishop and discussing your journey etc.

 

[Cluny]

After a period of exploration, you can investigate changing Rites.

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Properly, chaning sui juris church.

 

[Aramis]

Schmemman’s For the Life of the World: Sacraments And Orthodoxy is a good read. Just understand that the EO view on marriage and contraception is not quite orthodox from the catholic view.