Discovering the Rich Heritage of Orthodoxy

by M. Charles Bell

The History and Tradition of the Orthodox Church.

Genres: Christianity

91 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1994

Reviews

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed, but there were some---for lack of better words----logical fallacies (inconsistencies). Mainly in his explanation of Mary and her eternal virginity. He basically side-steps the issue and what little he does is very weak, and avoids certain Greek articles. I have no fault with her as being blessed above other women, and I agree that in the Protestant circles I have observed, she's kind of relegated to the back-burner. She should deserve more respect.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of one pastor who left the Presbyterian church for the Vineyard and then led his congregation into the Orthodox faith. It is good because he has some biographical information but also some very theological and historical information as he tells what his major difficulties were. This book reminded me largely of some things I had heard on the program "Our Life in Christ" and the Ware book "The Orthodox Church," which I've only read the 1st part of (History).
One of his biggest concerns was the reverence of Mary in the church and one of the biggest for his congregation was closed communion. This is a very short read.

[Anna Theodore · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was good for a general understanding of why the Orthodox tradition is set up the way it is. I have gained more respect for the Orthodox after reading this book, and it makes me realize how narrow my view is and how important it is for my faith to expand it!!

I think some of the larger things that I needed more knowledge about and received from here was the differences between the Catholic v. Orthodox churches as well as the role of saint veneration in the church/ its biblical backing.

This book leaves me wanting more from the Protestant church, a church that is more connected to the history and based on the Eucharistic above all other components.

[Timothy Yim-Stueve · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first half is a brilliant but brief survey of church history. The second is half-baked theology. The personal story element is fascinating as well. Great book to get into orthodox theology.

[Douglas Wilson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Poor.

[Bill Tucker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is on loan from the parish library of St. Paul the Apostle Orthodox Church in Dayton, Ohio.