These boards are no longer the CF boards??

[Dorothea]

I don't see Christian Forums on the top of the boards anymore, just FORU.MS. Uh, so, this is now just another message board without Christianity being the main subject?? :scratch: :(

[Oblio]

Is the water boiling yet ?

[Theophorus]

What does "MS" stand for?

[Theophorus]

Nevermind...It's a domain.

[Oblio]

It is just an appendix is my guess.

[OrthodoxyUSA]

Mississippi, but I doubt thats what it means here.

Forgive me...

[BillH]

What does "MS" stand for?

Apparently it's the top-level domain for Montserrat.

[Oblio]

Is it a real domain ?

[Futuwwa]

Yep. Erwin apparently surrendered and handed over the forum to us infidels. Something none of us ever asked for, if it was up to me, this place would still be CF.

[Oblio]

Thanks :)

[RobNJ]

What does "MS" stand for?

More "stuff"

[OrthodoxyUSA]

Forum-based "Social Networking" For You?

Forgive me...

[RobNJ]

Forum-based "Social Networking" For You?

Forgive me...

Why, you didn't do it!! ;)

[Bushmaster78FS]

Bullshirt.. sold out...

[Mary of Bethany]

Notice how the "Faith" section is now way down at the bottom of the home page?

That says volumes. :sigh:

Mary

[Theophorus]

I noticed.

[RobNJ]

Notice how the "Faith" section is now way down at the bottom of the home page?

That says volumes. :sigh:

Mary

I don't think it was up top, back when I joined... Oblio.. how's your memory? :scratch:

[TrueHope]

The main thing that is disturbing, and by reading many posts throughout the board, people are flipping because they took off Christian. I agree. When searching for forums, I specifically searched for Christian.

I actually feel bad for Erwin....he's gonna get a lot of slack....

[Oblio]

I don't think it was up top, back when I joined... Oblio.. how's your memory? :scratch:

Write only

[Oblio]

:)

IIRC the secular stuff was at the bottm at the beginning, but I'm REAL hazy about that.

[Dorothea]

Notice how the "Faith" section is now way down at the bottom of the home page?

That says volumes. :sigh:

Mary
I noticed and feel the same way you do about it.

[TrueHope]

I noticed and feel the same way you do about it.
Ditto. It is disheartening to have it so low on the page.

[Dorothea]

Ditto. It is disheartening to have it so low on the page.
Well, I came here because I wanted to join a Christian board. I'm already on regular, secular boards. This change seems to be making it along the same lines as any other message board out there, imo. Oh well. What can you do? At least we still have our forum.

[Theophorus]

Ditto. It is disheartening to have it so low on the page.

For a while the "Christian only section" was below the open to all members section.

[Theophorus]

I think the protestants should be more in an uproar about this than EO, or RC. After all, have we not insinuated who Christians are?

[DarkNLovely]

I don't know about anybody else but I am ticked! There was no place like CF! How could I have asked all of my questians about the EOC? How could I have fellowshiped as we have fellowshiped? How couls so many who have come here for spiritual guidence, love and insight from other believers if this was not CHRISTIAN FORUMS! I feel so ripped off and cheated! This was primarily for Christian growth and seeking and now it's for "you"? THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!!!

[Theophorus]

..... and now it's for "you"? THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!!!

Good point. Now it is egocentric.

[OrthodoxyUSA]

I wonder if the christianforums.com domain name is for sale?

Forgive me...

[DarkNLovely]

I wonder if the christianforums.com domain name is for sale?

Forgive me...
Hi!
Why do you keep saying forgive me? Just curious.

[RobNJ]

:)

IIRC the secular stuff was at the bottm at the beginning, but I'm REAL hazy about that.

I seem to remember having to go about halfway down the page, or more, to get to the congregational forums

[Thekla]

a wee bit of apostacy in an apostatic age ? :)

[DarkNLovely]

I think the protestants should be more in an uproar about this than EO, or RC. After all, have we not insinuated who Christians are?
What do you mean?

[Theophorus]

I wonder if the christianforums.com domain name is for sale?

Forgive me...

hmmm...was it set up on a yearly basis. Maybe you could fetch it from Go daddy.

[DarkNLovely]

OOOO I'M SO MAD! I WANNA PROTEST OR THROW SOMETHING! YOU KNOW WHAT THIS MEANS, RIGHT? NOW WE HAVE TO BE CAREFUL OF WHAT WE SAY, AND MAKE SURE NOBODY IS OFFENDED AND NOT DROP THE JESUS BOMB TO MUCH OR ELSE WE'LL BE CLOSE-MINDED CHRISTIANS!! AAAAAAA!!!!!

[Theophorus]

Erwin still has the "christianforums" domain locked up until 19 Jul 2008.

[Theophorus]

I wonder if the christianforums.com domain name is for sale?

Forgive me...

hmmm...was it set up on a yearly basis. Maybe you could fetch it from Go daddy.

[seashale76]

All of these constant changes seem unnecessarily stupid to me. There seems to be no rhyme or reason, unless it is some bizarre attempt like the mega-church phenomenon to be more seeker friendly, wishy-washy, and unoffensive (which to me is more offensive than if a person was going out of their way to be as offensive and un-pc as possible, but I digress).

[JustinHesychast]

Stupid name. Stupid slogan.

Bleh.

[Theophorus]

What do you mean?

...our apalogies regarding the true Church.

[DarkNLovely]

Apologies? *scratches head* You are sorry? Why? I'm not EO, but I like it! Why would you be sorry? I'm confused! *cries*

[KoolKat]

now that CF is foru.ms, it's just not so much fun as it used to be......:(

[Theophorus]

Apologies? *scratches head* You are sorry? Why? I'm not EO, but I like it! Why would you be sorry? I'm confused! *cries*

Apologetics, The term comes from the Greek word apologia (απολογία), meaning defense of a position against an attack.

[Futuwwa]

:)

IIRC the secular stuff was at the bottm at the beginning, but I'm REAL hazy about that.

Your memory serves you right. The accessible-to-all (before the reforms, that is) forums were regularly called "the basement" by us nonchristians who until recently only were able to dwell there.

[Dorothea]

It seems the boards are still kinda crazy or in transit of being worked on, or maybe it's just my computer that is having troubles!

[DarkNLovely]

Theo!

OOO! HEHE!

Dorothea! Mine too!

Hey! TrueHope has a site! Let's all join hers!
Anybody ever been to Morocco?

[Theophorus]

Your memory serves you right. The accessible-to-all (before the reforms, that is) forums were regularly called "the basement" by us nonchristians who until recently only were able to dwell there.

Just the outreach forums like general apologetics. If you wanted to discuss paper machee, or quilting, it was towards the top.

[Dorothea]

Just the outreach forums like general apologetics. If you wanted to discuss paper machee, or quilting, it was towards the top.
^_^

[DarkNLovely]

I'll miss CF!!! It's like losing a security blanket or a teddy bear! That make sense?

[Theophorus]

Anybody ever been to Morocco?

No, but I had a couple of Moroccan friends in Sardinia who were connected to the black market.....

Does that count? :P

[DarkNLovely]

LOL!

I have been to Tetuon! The people are so nice and the guys are...well, let's say the Moroccan girls are very blessed to get eye candy like that everyday! I wanna go back!

[RobNJ]

Your memory serves you right. The accessible-to-all (before the reforms, that is) forums were regularly called "the basement" by us nonchristians who until recently only were able to dwell there.

I was thinking of about three years ago.. things have been shuffled at least twice, since then.

[nikostheater]

What mess is this?what happened to CF?What stupid changes and what stupid name....

[DarkNLovely]

I need cheering up! I'm gonna start a make me happy thread in the new and "improved" FOR-YOU-UMS!!!!! :cry::cry::cry::cry::cry:

[KoolKat]

It seems the boards are still kinda crazy or in transit of being worked on, or maybe it's just my computer that is having troubles!
same here....

[JustinHesychast]

It's a stupid name and stupid slogan, but what's the big deal? The principles are the same as the old "new" CF. The only change is name and slogan...

[SeraphimSarov]

Looks like the name "The One True Old Posters of the Genuine Ancient Way in Exile From Christian Forums Resistance in Communion with Baklavas Synod in Exile Abroad" is all the more pertinent now.

As if the rule changes weren't bad enough.

[Theophorus]

LOL!

I have been to Tetuon! The people are so nice and the guys are...well, let's say the Moroccan girls are very blessed to get eye candy like that everyday! I wanna go back!


Morocco is on my list of places to go. I have heard 1st hand of its beauty, in every aspect. ;)

[SeraphimSarov]

But for how long?

[RobNJ]

http://conservative-christian-forums.com//YaBB.pl?board=Orthodox

I have an in with the mod, there ;)

[Bushmaster78FS]

I will continue posting as nothing happened. This kind of thing should not affect Orthodox Christians, and if it did, there are other places for us. I sure like the fact that Non-Christian Religion is a bit relaxed so I don't have to be all PC now discussing (!) with muslims...

Though this forum website gradually distanced itself from Christianity, I remember days back in 03-04, congregation was at the top of the main page... Driving factor behind it? No, not the bullshirt the owner tells everyone, evangelizing... I want to say, it is money...

[KoolKat]

hey everyone here's a link to a petition to bring back the old CF!!! (i also posted this in the Ouzeri, but more people are coming here so.....)

http://foru.ms/t5937679

[Zealous Zeth]

Orthodox, people, you should do as I, send a pm to Erwin. If too many people complains, he will revert it back. :)

[DarkNLovely]

Morocco is on my list of places to go. I have heard 1st hand of its beauty, in every aspect. ;)
It's so true! They are so nice! If you are of African decent, they call you Brother or Sister! (I can't tell because of your character! It's kinda green!)I like to warn people of that because nobody warned us and at first we thought they were being strange but they are sincere! The market places are just like in Alaadin! LOL!

[Xpycoctomos]

So many thoughts.

Can anyone tell me, is the nicene Creed still refered to here for a normative on what a Christian is? Is there still a normative. Some may be saying "No John, this is no longer Christian forums" however, in the new "broader" Mission erwin posted, part 2 of the Mission is: To provide a meeting place for Christians to fellowship with one another and outreach to non-Christians..."

So, is there still some normative.

This is all I ask (not that anyone has to listen) is that we first try to understand where Erwin is coming from and what his thought process is. I don't think I saw it here but I saw in other places that people were accusing him of being an Atheist and couldn't find any proof of that. From what I can tell from any of his own posts, his theological beliefs haven't changed (or he hasn't shared anything that would tell me otherwise) even if his beliefs on HOW Christ's word should be spread have. However, being as we are in a pluralistic society, it would seem necessary to have a definition of what a Christian is and what "Christian priniciples" refer to exactly. Is this still defined here?

[DarkNLovely]

IDEA! What if we protest by not logging on for a week? That will be very clear message, yes? What do ya'll think? FEEDBACK!

[DarkNLovely]

It was fine the way it was! I'm a prime example! Not EO, but here I am! Nothing is stopping outreach! Ya'll have reached me and this is the ONLY place where I have EVER been witnessed to about EOC!*FORGOT TO ADD xy'S POST*

[Oblio]

So many thoughts.

Can anyone tell me, is the nicene Creed still refered to here for a normative on what a Christian is? Is there still a normative. Some may be saying "No John, this is no longer Christian forums" however, in the new "broader" Mission erwin posted, part 2 of the Mission is:

So, is there still some normative.

This is all I ask (not that anyone has to listen) is that we first try to understand where Erwin is coming from and what his thought process is. I don't think I saw it here but I saw in other places that people were accusing him of being an Atheist and couldn't find any proof of that. From what I can tell from any of his own posts, his theological beliefs haven't changed (or he hasn't shared anything that would tell me otherwise) even if his beliefs on HOW Christ's word should be spread have. However, being as we are in a pluralistic society, it would seem necessary to have a definition of what a Christian is and what "Christian priniciples" refer to exactly. Is this still defined here?

My guess is no, or will be soon. Our good Emperor is being attacked in his moderator application thread for his comments regarding Mormon heretics. At least one antagonist is claiming the 'new' vision of CF is to disallow orthodox Christian thought.

[Silentchapel]

What I said in that petition:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v476/Parastos/My%20Site/Passia.jpg

[Brushstroke]

When I got on this morning I was like "What the heck?!" This is messed up...I almost thought all the Christian forums were gone and it was just some basic social forum until I scrolled down further.

It irritates me. This was originally for us, and it should be for us. I want CF back.

~Phil~

[DarkNLovely]

WHAT DO YA'LL THINK ABOUT A BOTCOTT?

[KoolKat]

WHAT DO YA'LL THINK ABOUT A BOTCOTT?
you mean a BOYCOTT, right?

[DarkNLovely]

you mean a BOYCOTT, right?
LOL!YEAH! Can't spell! lol!

[SeraphimSarov]

Not sure anyone would notice or care. It's supposed to be a self-governing site now, but I don't see how that's true when the very name of the site was unilaterally changed and most of the membership is completely scandalized by it.

[DarkNLovely]

Not sure anyone would notice or care. It's supposed to be a self-governing site now, but I don't see how that's true when the very name of the site was unilaterally changed and most of the membership is completely scandalized by it.
What does self-governing mean as far as the site?

I just learned what "apologetics" mean today! :D

[Xpycoctomos]

Some thoughts:

I have been informed by an Administrated of FM that there is no longer any kind of definition of what a Christian is and that "only God truly knows" (I will say that this person did not say that this was THEIR personal view but was trying to represent Erwin's thinking on the matter. Erwin, if this is false, please come here and defend your name). The consequences of this are obvious and think anyone here can see that this site is now no more than Universalist in nature.

This got me thinking a lot. How did it come to this? Well, what was used before this to define a Christian? The words of the Nicene Creed. Now, to be sure, each line was defended by a verse to protect the sensibilities of the majority of sola scriptura-ists (and most would assume that Erwin is one of them, even if he has never used that word to define himself). All of this and the current status of this forum reveals a LOT.

The ONE unifying thing we all had here in ChristianForums was an ancient text written by Christian leaders: the Creed. Even a non-demonational, bible alone protestant saw that it was the best method of unifying Christians. I mean, he could have said "To be a member of CF and to be able to label yourself as a Christian, click here if you agree to everything in the Bible." But the absurdity of this is so apparent, and oddly enough not only to Catholics and Orthodox, but to the most protestanty of protestants as well (this is, by the way, that I think most lutherans, baptists and so on, even non-denoms, are NOT REALLY as sola-scriptura as they would hope to think... however, some are and I will get to this latter and sadder point in a moment).

Erwin realized you can't use the Bible alone as the definition of a Christian because that can be interpreted SOOOO many different ways. So, he had to result to a text that clarified what all of that means. Later, he used the Bible to defend each quote... but the fact is that the lines in the Creed were not the ONLY way of interpreting Christ's nature if indeed one used the ONLY the Scriptures to peer into Christian beliefs.

So, if one is honest and probes into Sola Scripturism diligently they are left with two ultimate conclusions: 1) you need the Church to understand the Scriptures (which inevitably leads to where and WHAT is the Church), OR (not "and") since the Scriptures stand alone, it is for each one to decide on his or her own what they mean, who Christ is, etc... Unfortunately this site has gone with the latter.

But the conclusion was inevitable. This site always tried to be all inclusive. The premise was impossible "to unite all Christians" (for a "Christian" was anyone who believed in their own interpretation of the Creed... just as we can't be sola scriptura, we can't be sola credo either... what is missing is the ENTIRE contest of the Church to undestand this). After a while, it must have dawned on Erwin that the JWs and the Momons have good points too (Within a sola-scriptura kind of mindset) and so who was he to say that the Creed had to be the standard when the Creed is just made up by a bunch of men a long time ago? As good as they may have been, who were they to define a Christian? Erwin and his collegues had to take the Universalist road because the mission, in reality, is simply to be inclusive. To take the apostolic (Catholic/Orthodox) route, you have to be honest enough with yourself thta no matter how unpopular it is, being a part of a faith does mean that you DO believe certain things and that you necessarily do NOT believe other things, and that is not only about morals and vitues but about God as well. It necessarily means being exclusive. If not, you are universalist.

So, regardless of what happens to this forum (or what has happened... and this is why I have always said that this is JUST a forum... these will come and go and evolve and devolve) I hope that protestants wake up to the fact that THIS is exactly where Sola Scriptura can lead. It is dangerous and I oddly enough it the the very mindset of "who is the Church to say what a Christian is" that directly created the mindset of the Universalist movement.

John

[Breaking Babylon]

http://orthopraxis.uni.cc
http://orthopraxis.co.nr

Streaming flash chatbox with no 12 year olds roleplaying, over 100 members registered, over 5,000 posts made and counting, constantly growing.

1. Our forum membership is composed of sincere inquirers, catechumens, and Orthodox Christians who belong to worldwide canonical jurisdictions such as SCOBA, ROCOR, Antiochian Patriarchate, Alexandrian Patriarchate, MP (Russian Patriarchate), JP (Jerusalem Patriarchate) and EP (Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople), etc.

We welcome all for fellowship, but only clergy who are ordained and serve in a canonical jurisdiction will be officially recognized on Orthopraxis as Priests or Deacons. Clergy who can provide valid references will have their names appear on the forum in blue lettering with a + symbol preceding their names. Please PM the Administration if you have questions concerning this.

2. Be kind. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Be respectful and courteous. Remember that the crux of Orthopraxis is fellowship and inquiry.

3. Since we are a G-rated site open to children over 13 and to adults, please avoid all unchaste discussions which include any specific references to sexual immorality. You may, however, discuss ways of becoming dispassionate as Orthopraxis is aimed at the edification of its members.

4. Obey the Ten Commandments, the teachings of the Beatitudes, the Seven Holy Ecumenical Councils, and the original Nicene Creed, which did not contain the filioque.

5. Please refrain from posts aimed at heated debate, even in the designated forum. Questioning one's faith based on the calendar they use or whether or not their parish has stained glass windows, organs, or pews will not be tolerated.

Above all Orthopraxis is for fellowship, edification and growth within canonical Orthodoxy with a peaceful and welcoming environment for catechumens and inquirers. You're all more than welcome there, even if it's just to take a peek to see if it could be a new 'home' for you.

Consider it. :)

[Michael the Iconographer]

All I know is Fr. Vasily would be in total, utter, incomprehensible outrage right now!

[kamikat]

Well, ya know, he actually did listen to the members. Many people said that if he was going to change CF to allow non-Christians to be mods and non-Christians to post whereever and eliminate the Creed, then he should change the name. that's exactly what he did. People told him to either go back to the old CF or take Christian out of the name. I guess nobody likes what he chose.

[Sothron]

I know about Orthopraxis and I know there are the conservative christian forums which has an Orthodox section. Is there anywhere else you guys here post at that is Orthodox or has an Orthodox section you post in?

I do not know if I can associate with this site as it has publicly renounced Christ for secularism and Erwin's personal finances. He paid seven thousand USD for the name foru.ms at the drop of the hat; nice to see where my donations went.

[Michael the Iconographer]

I am sorry all, but if I leave, I will not be joining another forum.

[SeraphimSarov]

All I know is Fr. Vasily would be in total, utter, incomprehensible outrage right now!
See my subheading. He has spoken.

[Oblio]

Excellent analysis Xpycoctomos of the falling away of CF.

Like I've always maintained:

Dogma matters and unites.

[RobNJ]

This isn't that much of a shock... It's just changing the packaging of the site, to match the changes to the core of the site, that were instituted in July.

Shocking-no, depressing- yes

[DarkNLovely]

Nobody seems to like my boycott idea! It could be effective! Hey! Who's Erwin?

[RobNJ]

Nobody seems to like my boycott idea! It could be effective! Hey! Who's Erwin?

Erwin,, The guy who makes the FINAL decisions around here. He owns the place.

[EmperorConstantine]

This place is still CF in my mind.

Viva le CF!

[Matrona]

Well, ya know, he actually did listen to the members. Many people said that if he was going to change CF to allow non-Christians to be mods and non-Christians to post whereever and eliminate the Creed, then he should change the name. that's exactly what he did. People told him to either go back to the old CF or take Christian out of the name. I guess nobody likes what he chose.


That was an argument that I have never quite been able to follow.

That said, the new name/mission makes this place seem like any other message board. I tend to think that message boards and such are generally kind of trashy and cheesy. (Sorry. ;) TAW is my favorite soap opera, though.) The Christian theme of this site seemed to give this place a higher purpose and a sort of dignity which has been taken from it by the name change.

[kamikat]

That was an argument that I have never quite been able to follow.

That said, the new name/mission makes this place seem like any other message board. I tend to think that message boards and such are generally kind of trashy and cheesy. (Sorry. ;) TAW is my favorite soap opera, though.) The Christian theme of this site seemed to give this place a higher purpose and a sort of dignity which has been taken from it by the name change.

I totally agree with EVERY SINGLE WORD of your post :D

[EmperorConstantine]

The ads at the bottom of some threads still say

"Become a Christian Forums site supporter today!"

[KoolKat]

http://orthopraxis.uni.cc
http://orthopraxis.co.nr

3. Since we are a G-rated site open to children over 13 and to adults :)
aww, man, that means i can't go, right?:sigh:

[kamikat]

Here is a good place to check out http://conservative-christian-forums.com//YaBB.pl
The congregational subforums are open to members only.

[JustinHesychast]

I am sorry all, but if I leave, I will not be joining another forum.

Not even OP? T.T :(

[RobNJ]

Here is a good place to check out http://conservative-christian-forums.com//YaBB.pl
The congregational subforums are open to members only.

OOPS,, forgot that part!!:blush:

Great place to visit!!!!

[KoolKat]

^ i think my mom was checking that site out......

[-Kyriaki-]

*holes up here and refuses to go out of TAW*

This place is starting to scare me. I've been here for five years..

[Xpycoctomos]

Nobody seems to like my boycott idea! It could be effective! Hey! Who's Erwin?
Well, my thinking is...really, what's the purpose of this thread?

Erwin has decidedly not defined what a Christian is yet we are supposed to be guided by "Christian princples" and reachout to non-Christians. But who are "non-Christians?"

Apparently if we call anyone a non-Christian, we are judging them? I don't get it.

I mean, we might keep posting here... I don't know, perhaps this forum was always absurd but it at least gave you the idea that it was a safe-haven for conservative mostly trinitarian believers to discuss things. Perhaps as Rob said, all it is doing is just being more honest with itself and pointing out the absurdity of all of this to those who are open to see it. But... at least we USED to have the Creed to point to as somekind of starting point as to what a Christian was.

FM is stupid ad perhaps it always was. I might keep coming here only becuase I know you all, but in the end, it is utterly purposeless as a forum goes.

John

PS: So, I saw the orthopraxis forums... what are the other ones?

[Shubunkin]

you mean a BOYCOTT, right?
I like Botcot better (as in ChrisBot). :)

[Xpycoctomos]

That was an argument that I have never quite been able to follow.

That said, the new name/mission makes this place seem like any other message board. I tend to think that message boards and such are generally kind of trashy and cheesy. (Sorry. ;) TAW is my favorite soap opera, though.) The Christian theme of this site seemed to give this place a higher purpose and a sort of dignity which has been taken from it by the name change.
I think you've said it best. However, as I said, now although it really is no different than other forums, it has a dishonest premise of reachingout to non-christians in a place where we are not supposed to "judge" others by calling them... non-Christians.

John

[fuerein]

The change really is disappointing to me. I only found this site because I was specifically looking for Christian forums, now there is little on the front page, without scrolling down to the very bottom, to make one believe this site has any Christian emphasis. Sad really. I've seen in some of the other threads people comment that it isn't the name that matters, but the people that post. However, as time goes on here, without the prominent placement of something confirming this site holds to some form Christian belief, the membership will secularize and then....

Yeah, wish I hadn't just supported the site. If I knew these changes were to come I'd have never supported.

Yup. Sad.

[Xpycoctomos]

Very intersting, from the "a new beginning and a fresh start" thread (http://foru.ms/t5936919) post #501. It will be interesting if it is deleted as it is now closed for staff review and will be reopenned in 48 hours.
Originally Posted by Macrina http://www3.foru.ms/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://foru.ms/showthread.php?p=37835521#post37835521)
PS:

Erwin, now I'm somewhat confused. Am I reading this (http://www.afternic.com/bidhist.php?id=13805887) correctly, that you bid on the new domain name on July 26, when folks on CF were still earnestly discussing the direction? If this is accurate, then could you explain a bit more about your process in coming to this decision?

Thanks,
Mac

[RobNJ]

PS: So, I saw the orthopraxis forums... what are the other ones?

Lot's of familiar faces at:

http://conservative-christian-forums.com//YaBB.pl

it's like the congregational forums, here- without the interdenominational fighting

[JustinHesychast]

I'll probably only be over at OP. But I'll always stick here somewhat. Many converts have come from finding TAW.

[Xpycoctomos]

Lot's of familiar faces at:

http://conservative-christian-forums.com//YaBB.pl

it's like the congregational forums, here- without the interdenominational fighting
I like it. see you there! (with the same ugly name :))

[ClementofRome]

WOW...just got in from a day of hard labor (took 25 college freshmen to a Habitat for Humanity job site)....and what do I find, but another change in CF that does not surprise me the least.

The conversation inside my own head in recent months as I begin to permanently shed Protestantism is that the church (Prot esp, and RCC secondarily) always changes to the whims of culture. Culture dictates the way, the truth. and the life to the church, and it bows down. Show me one instance in the last 100 years where the church (Prot) has dictated something to culture and culture obeyed.

I am not really sad to see all of this as I have friends at OP and CCF and other places.... What saddens me is that I came to CF several years ago after becoming embroiled in a nasty secular site as I tried to be a Christian and a political libertarian/conservative, only to be ridiculed and bashed and called names constantly. I kicked the dust off of my shoes and googled {Christian Discussion Forum} and immediately found CF. Finding CF led me to TAW. TAW helped lead me to EO. Where would my journey have led me if I had seen FORU.MS at the top of the screen....I dare say, I would never have found ye all!

But as the cultural cry of postmodernism insists, my reaction is: WHATEVER!

[Orthosdoxa]

I say, what's the difference? This place ceased to be Christian a long time ago, in my opinion. (ie, the whole pro-life issue, what happened to vrunca, etc.)

I'm staying. If people google Orthodox stuff, they still might find TAW, regardless of what else is happening on the rest of TBFKACF. And if I can help lead anyone home to the Church, then I have a reason to be here.

Yeah, Erwin sold out, but I'm not going to worry about it. I still think we as TAW have a mission.

[Xpycoctomos]

see ya at CCF friend!

[EmperorConstantine]

But as the cultural cry of postmodernism insists, my reaction is: WHATEVER!
Let them eat cake!


11th commandment in Orthodoxy: Thou shalt not change.

If we still think of this as CF, than it will remain friendly. Yet if we think of this as a secular run site where anything goes, than it will not remain friendly.

[EmperorConstantine]

Yeah, Erwin sold out, but I'm not going to worry about it. I still think we as TAW have a mission.
Ay, I agree (who'da thought? An Eastern Washingtonian and a Western Washingtonian agreeing. :eek:)

It is because of TAW and the people here that many have either come to Orthodoxy or at least realized that we are not popeless Roman Catholics.

What comes to mind right now is part of Psalm 60 which is written in Old Slavonic on the back of the cross around my neck.

[disasm]

It's too bad for the name change, but even worse is the faith at the bottom of the forum :( I'll still stick around, but not going to venture to far from TAW and NT...

[disasm]

I agree though, I don't think this is about evangelism but most likely money. In regards to the ads though, I didn't know there were ads on here until yesterday when I used a friend's computer. AdBlock does a great job at keeping sites usable.

[Orthosdoxa]

An Eastern Washingtonian and a Western Washingtonian agreeing. :eek:)


Hey! We agree on a LOT of things! *kicks*

[Asinner]

I don't see Christian Forums on the top of the boards anymore, just FORU.MS. Uh, so, this is now just another message board without Christianity being the main subject?? :scratch: :(

We are Christians regardless of the name of this board. :hug:

[Shubunkin]

I'm sticking around just because of my dolly. ;)

[EmperorConstantine]

Hey! We agree on a LOT of things! *kicks*
Ow!



:sorry:

:D

[EmperorConstantine]

We are Christians regardless of the name of this board. :hug:
Besides, since each forum is basically autonomous, than we can make our own rules.:)

[HowardDean]

I'm not happy with the 'landlord' but I like my roommates.
I feel safe here in taw.

[disasm]

We are Christians regardless of the name of this board. :hug:
I agree, as much as I miss the cross on the front page, we still have our community. If things get really ugly, I can always throw a forum on my server (gentux.org) and we can migrate there :-P

[disasm]

oops, guess there never was a cross on the front page, it just said Christian Forums in the top corner... Still had another window open on my desktop with the old look...

[Asinner]

I agree, as much as I miss the cross on the front page, we still have our community. If things get really ugly, I can always throw a forum on my server (gentux.org) and we can migrate there :-P

:)

[Asinner]

oops, guess there never was a cross on the front page, it just said Christian Forums in the top corner... Still had another window open on my desktop with the old look...

Yet you perceived there was one. The cross is there whether it is visual or not.

Love,
Christina:hug:

[Xpycoctomos]

I'm not happy with the 'landlord' but I like my roommates.
I feel safe here in taw.
I can see that totally. I just and shopping around to see if there is a different landlord... with a lot of the same roommates lol.

[disasm]

Yet you perceived there was one. The cross is there whether it is visual or not.

Love,
Christina:hug:
That's true ;-) Thanks Christina.

Sam

[Asinner]

That's true ;-) Thanks Christina.

Sam

Blessings to you!:hug:

[disasm]

I can see that totally. I just and shopping around to see if there is a different landlord... with a lot of the same roommates lol.
I checked out CCF, waiting for them to switch from Athanasian to Nicene Creed before posting though. Also, the animated sigs are really annoying...

I think I like it here, haven't been here long, but I'll stick around as long as everyone else does.

[Asinner]

I'm not happy with the 'landlord' but I like my roommates.


:groupray:

[Michael the Iconographer]

If I leave you can all find me on my own web site which will be up and running within the month, michaelgoltzicons.com There won't be the forum as there is here, but there will be a weekly blog attached to the site where I post comments, thoughts and teachings on iconography. You will also be able to email me through the site, for those of you who dont have my email address.

[Asinner]

If I leave you can all find me on my own web site which will be up and running within the month, michaelgoltzicons.com There won't be the forum as there is here, but there will be a weekly blog attached to the site where I post comments, thoughts and teachings on iconography. You will also be able to email me through the site, for those of you who dont have my email address.

Don't go, Michael. Please stay!:hug:

[EmperorConstantine]

I'm not happy with the 'landlord' but I like my roommates.
I feel safe here in taw.
Roommates make it worth putting up with the landlord.

[Xpycoctomos]

If I leave you can all find me on my own web site which will be up and running within the month, michaelgoltzicons.com There won't be the forum as there is here, but there will be a weekly blog attached to the site where I post comments, thoughts and teachings on iconography. You will also be able to email me through the site, for those of you who dont have my email address.
Sounds great! I look forward to it.

[ClementofRome]

In fact, room-mates in union can do some really cool stuff to drive the landlord crazy!!!!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

[EmperorConstantine]

In fact, room-mates in union can do some really cool stuff to drive the landlord crazy!!!!!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!
Like burning paper bags on the porch!\

MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!

[Xpycoctomos]

I checked out CCF, waiting for them to switch from Athanasian to Nicene Creed before posting though. Also, the animated sigs are really annoying...

I think I like it here, haven't been here long, but I'll stick around as long as everyone else does.
Don't we accept the Athanasian Creed, at least in content. Forgive my ignorance. It's been a long time since I've read it. I guess I signed up without reading it. lol :)

[Oblio]

IIRC the Cross was taken off because it was foolishness to some 'Christians' at CF.

[EmperorConstantine]

IIRC the Cross was taken off because it was foolishness to some 'Christians' at CF.
Someone probably called it idolatry.

[Dorothea]

That was an argument that I have never quite been able to follow.

That said, the new name/mission makes this place seem like any other message board. I tend to think that message boards and such are generally kind of trashy and cheesy. (Sorry. ;) TAW is my favorite soap opera, though.) The Christian theme of this site seemed to give this place a higher purpose and a sort of dignity which has been taken from it by the name change.
You're spot on! That's what I was trying to say, but you said it brilliantly. :D

But, nonetheless, the forums are still here, and I will be sticking around. :)

[Dorothea]

I say, what's the difference? This place ceased to be Christian a long time ago, in my opinion. (ie, the whole pro-life issue, what happened to vrunca, etc.)

I'm staying. If people google Orthodox stuff, they still might find TAW, regardless of what else is happening on the rest of TBFKACF. And if I can help lead anyone home to the Church, then I have a reason to be here.

Yeah, Erwin sold out, but I'm not going to worry about it. I still think we as TAW have a mission.
Right on, sister. :D

[EmperorConstantine]

Who/what was vrunca?:confused:

[Seeker of the Truth]

Whoa!!! Well, this is different.

At least TAW remains unchanged...for now.

[EmperorConstantine]

Whoa!!! Well, this is different.

At least TAW remains unchanged...for now.
TAW is Orthodox, what makes you think we'd change?

[Xpycoctomos]

TAW is Orthodox, what makes you think we'd change?
Well, TAW is formed by Orthodox... but we're only human so TAW could go wayward. Some feel it already has been forced to go wayward.

Now, here's my question. In the past, we used to complain that we were forced to fit into this bubble of what the site deemed to be Christian. Now we are told by Erwin that we are going to be semi-autonomous (or was it autonomous?). Does this allow us to have more control here within our own site? Don't get me wrong, I'm not into screaming that Lutherans aren't Christians, but it seems to me that an Orthodox should be able to take the hardcore stance of since we are the Church, only Orthodox are true Christians. In the past, they have been censored at times, so I've been told. Now, is that up to THIS forum for US to set up and enforce or not enforce old standards? Anyone following me? Like, does Erwin and friends, according to their new rules, have any control in what we state? (well, obviously Erwin can do as he likes if it makes sense or not, as he has shown, but I mean if he decides to follow his own rules).

Anyway, just trying to look on the bright side.

eh... I may stick around anyway. iT will be interesting. But this site is soooooo whacked out I really don't care if I break some wierd Foru.ms ru.le and they decide to wa.rn me or ban me or somethi.ng.

Jo.hn

[SeekingTheLight]

Ok, well this is weird. I mean, I just joined CF on Thursday, and now it's all different. Hmmm...

I'll stick around though, for now.

[SeekingTheLight]

eh... I may stick around anyway. iT will be interesting. But this site is soooooo whacked out I really don't care if I break some wierd Foru.ms ru.le and they decide to wa.rn me or ban me or somethi.ng.

Jo.hn

Ha!!!!:D (I mea.nt the periods in the wor.ds) *I didn't want you to think I was laughing at what you said.

[Futuwwa]

Would the change be less bad if the new slogan would get the amendment "Christian forum-based social networking for you!"?

Because that's what it is still, with half the forum dedicated to the Christian religion anyway (and I would not want to infringe on that).

[Philothei]

You are offensive to me with your avatar.... maybe i need to report you....again. Look at our rules please'

[Xpycoctomos]

Ok, well this is weird. I mean, I just joined CF on Thursday, and now it's all different. Hmmm...

I'll stick around though, for now.
See, I could see if I were you and just joined and then it changed I would too be like "huh, that's wierd.. oh well" and I don't think you are wrong for not caring too much. But for those of us who have been here for several years it's like stepping into the twighlight zone. I mean, as others have said really only the clothing has changed to be more honest with how relativist this place was to begin with, nothing really changed.

Honestly if I had come here (and not read the absurd vision Erwin has for this place) today for the first time, would probably think it were really cool thinking "That's neat, a social forum that happens to have some special religious section for different denoms and the Orthdoox Church. Neat". It it kind of feels like ... not like the rugs been pulled out beneath us, but like the rug probably was junly pulled on for a long time now until it was gone. Finally they just pointed it out to us ingoramuses who didn't know yet but explained it to us by cushioning the news with fluffy but meaningless words like "Christian Principles" and such. lol

John

[Xpycoctomos]

Would the change be less bad if the new slogan would get the amendment "Christian forum-based social networking for you!"?

Because that's what it is still, with half the forum dedicated to the Christian religion anyway (and I would not want to infringe on that).
What's a Christian?

[Xpycoctomos]

You are offensive to me with your avatar.... maybe i need to report you....again. Look at our rules please'
What's offensive about his avatar?

[Monica, child of God]

I just don't get it...

M.

[Monica, child of God]

The CF changes, I mean.

M.

[Philothei]

2.All posters wil treat each other respectfully


It is Souleiman the killer of Christians.... isn't it? and it is not respecting our forum, being christians and especially orthodox christians who martyred unde the Turkish yoke...

[ClementofRome]

I GET IT ALL....and am running as fast as my legs will take me to EO!

[Futuwwa]

2.All posters wil treat each other respectfully


It is Souleiman the killer of Christians.... isn't it? and it is not respecting our forum, being christians and especially orthodox christians who martyred unde the Turkish yoke...

Actually it's Mehmed II. Who was far from as universally evil as Christians tend to portray him as. He's mainly known for the conquest of Constantinople, but was generally a very progressive ruler. Take a look at this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_II#Mehmed_II.27s_Firman_on_the_Freedom_of_the_Bosnian_Franciscans), from wikipedia.

[Philothei]

Never mind your info. Mehmet the same vicious as the rest.... it is disrespective to have him in your avatar around here pls..either do not post or.... welll I think I warned you .... No bad feelings but this is a Christian forum regardless the FORUMS.... still got the rules up the top.

Ph.

By the way do not try to teach us history here.... esp. about the Turkish empire we know it by heart

[xristos.anesti]

Mehmed was progressive - well, say it ain't so

so who else is on your list of progressive people?

Osama?
Hitler?
Josef Mengele maybe?


ah wait - I know -

Stalin?



Seriously guy -

loose the turban head - or go elsewhere -

[Futuwwa]

I would rather trust my history books than a perspective on the Ottoman Empire seen through the lens of a nationalistic independence struggle.

Really, please, if any leader who is viewed unfavourable by some group of people would be banned as an avatar, I have a hard time thinking of any serious leader who would qualify. When you decided to bring down mod action on my username, I didn't fight but accepted the change. Do you have to pursue me just because you can?

[Asinner]

Futuwwa,

Please, if I may, what is it you seek?

Love,
Christina

[Futuwwa]

Futuwwa,

Please, if I may, what is it you seek?

Love,
Christina

Do you mean to ask what I'm doing here?

[Philothei]

No, just because like I said I find it offensive. This is an orthodox christian forum , a congregational forum. I would not pursue you if you would be respectful but you are not. it is that simple... just drop the icon. I would never go to a mulsim site with a cross... either. Iw ould respect them just the same.

Thank you and may the True Lord and Saviour who your avatar picture fought save you and have mercy on your soul. Truly,
Philothei

[Asinner]

Do you mean to ask what I'm doing here?


:thumbsup::P

[Futuwwa]

Asinner, I'm here to learn. I want to get to know you. I'm very familiar with Catholicism and Protestantism, but Orthodoxy is a variant of Christianity I hardly know anything about.

[Michael the Iconographer]

Sounds great! I look forward to it.
I realize my site will be geared towards my thoughts on iconography and promoting my work, but the blog there should be alot of fun and I plan for it to be educational for those who read it. Plus it will be an easy way to contact me for those who don't have my email address.

[Asinner]

Asinner, I'm here to learn. I want to get to know you. I'm very familiar with Catholicism and Protestantism, but Orthodoxy is a variant of Christianity I hardly know anything about.

Then I will take you on your word. :wave:

Love,
Christina

[Futuwwa]

Philothei, ok then. I can change it to something similar. But if you think Suleiman I is evil too, is there anything Ottoman which wouldn't be?

[WarriorAngel]

http://christianexchange.forumco.com/default.asp

[Philothei]

Philothei, ok then. I can change it to something similar. But if you think Suleiman I is evil too, is there anything Ottoman which wouldn't be?
Thank you Futuwaw like I said I would not have a problem even if you wanted Mohamet as your avatar Iwould respect that as you are respecting now our faith. Why do you insist on the Ottoman? All of them were involved to some degree in murdering and recruiting for Islam. I know it is a matter of perspective also but .... this is a Christian community... like I said before I would not post a cross in a muslim forum....

No bad feelings .... Lord have mercy and massala... little turkish I know.
Philothei

[Michael the Iconographer]

http://christianexchange.forumco.com/default.asp
You have my email, make sure you say hi every now and then.

[Futuwwa]

Thank you Futuwaw like I said I would not have a problem even if you wanted Mohamet as your avatar Iwould respect that as you are respecting now our faith. Why do you insist on the Ottoman? All of them were involved to some degree in murdering and recruiting for Islam. I know it is a matter of perspective also but .... this is a Christian community... like I said before I would not post a cross in a muslim forum....

No bad feelings .... Lord have mercy and massala... little turkish I know.
Philothei

Well, I happen to dig the Ottoman Empire. I think that, viewed in its proper historical context, it was a very progressive imperial construct, at least during the 15th to 17th centuries. The state ideology was one of a universal empire for all peoples, under Islamic Turkish leadership. Obviously this was not always realized in practice, but what they strived for is very much in line with what I would think of as the ideal Islamic state.

Actually, I don't think anyone would object to displaying a cross on an Islamic forum. The ones I've tried out this far have been welcoming of nonmuslims. There's nothing blasphemous about the cross to us.

[RobNJ]

Well, I happen to dig the Ottoman Empire. I think that, viewed in its proper historical context, it was a very progressive imperial construct, at least during the 15th to 17th centuries. The state ideology was one of a universal empire for all peoples, under Islamic Turkish leadership. Obviously this was not always realized in practice, but what they strived for is very much in line with what I would think of as the ideal Islamic state.

Actually, I don't think anyone would object to displaying a cross on an Islamic forum. The ones I've tried out this far have been welcoming of nonmuslims. There's nothing blasphemous about the cross to us.

How about a pic of the mosque at Mecca?

[Futuwwa]

I'd rather have some turban-headed face to go along with my CF character.

[Oblio]

Going back a few pages to the point about rules, is there any rule now that we can't proclaim Orthodoxy as the one true faith, all others as counterfeit, and the heterodox as putting their salvation in danger if they remain so willingly ?

[Xpycoctomos]

Again, fuutwa, you said you this is mostly Christian. I wonder what your definition of Christian is. Whatever you say is fine because this site refuses to define this. Honestly, if you want to call yourself a Christian (since you do beleive in a Christ that was born of the Virgin per your own tradition) apparently you can and no one at foru.ms c.an deba.te th.is. (I mean, we would, and they probably wouldn't do anything,.. but the point is still that the management of this site is... whack.ed o.ut).

John

[ClementofRome]

w.h.a.c.k.e.d.....o.u.t dot com

[Asinner]

Going back a few pages to the point about rules, is there any rule now that we can't proclaim Orthodoxy as the one true faith, all others as counterfeit, and the heterodox as putting their salvation in danger if they remain so willingly ?

While waving the Creed in the air . . . :P

[Monica, child of God]

I don't know what I am going to do...It is just so weird. I have never been interested in Facebook or the other "social networking" sites so to have CF turn into one is just weird. Is Erwin trying to compete with Facebook or something? Foru.ms is such a ridiculous name. I don't know. I will probably stay if TAW remains vibrant. The only other places I go are OBOB and occasionaly STR and the OO forum. If TAW is bled of its regulars, I'll have no reason to check in.

M.

[Futuwwa]

Again, fuutwa, you said you this is mostly Christian. I wonder what your definition of Christian is. Whatever you say is fine because this site refuses to define this. Honestly, if you want to call yourself a Christian (since you do beleive in a Christ that was born of the Virgin per your own tradition) apparently you can and no one at foru.ms c.an deba.te th.is. (I mean, we would, and they probably wouldn't do anything,.. but the point is still that the management of this site is... whack.ed o.ut).

John

L:DL, love the insertion of dots as per the new name of this forum.

Well, since I'm not a Christian, any definition of "Christian" based on what's true dogma is irrelevant to me, as is the term "true Christian". For me, the only sensible use of the word would be to refer to any religious group claiming to be primarily based on the teachings of Jesus. If they are non-Nicene, I'd just refer to them as unorthodox Christians.

[Oblio]

If they are non-Nicene, I'd just refer to them as unorthodox Christians.

Heretic uses less bandwidth :)

[PrincessMommy]

Perhaps Erwin is planning on merging with Belief.net? It seems to me (from what little I remember of BN) that there is no longer much difference, except here the forums are better.

OTOH, trying to join some of the other Christian forums would be next to impossible because many of them have statements of faith which would probably not align with EO.

[Dust and Ashes]

How is Erwin supposed to get all the non-Christians to become site supporters if it's called christianforums?

It kind of reminds me of those singers who started out singing gospel music or contemporary Christian then when they got all big and popular forgot their roots and went secular.

[Philothei]

Well, I happen to dig the Ottoman Empire. I think that, viewed in its proper historical context, it was a very progressive imperial construct, at least during the 15th to 17th centuries. The state ideology was one of a universal empire for all peoples, under Islamic Turkish leadership. Obviously this was not always realized in practice, but what they strived for is very much in line with what I would think of as the ideal Islamic state.

Actually, I don't think anyone would object to displaying a cross on an Islamic forum. The ones I've tried out this far have been welcoming of nonmuslims. There's nothing blasphemous about the cross to us.
whatever you want to do is okay, now. If it is okay with everyone else...

Philothei

[Futuwwa]

:hug:

[xristos.anesti]

I can not but fail to see what is a single thing positive about Seljuks - and their murderous empire.

[Futuwwa]

Seljuks =/= Ottomans.

[xristos.anesti]

I fail to see a difference - a turk is a turk and their place should be other side of Syria -

ah yes - Seljuks did not take Christian children away - "the most progressive Ottomans" did -

give me a break troll.

[kamikat]

Perhaps Erwin is planning on merging with Belief.net? It seems to me (from what little I remember of BN) that there is no longer much difference, except here the forums are better.

OTOH, trying to join some of the other Christian forums would be next to impossible because many of them have statements of faith which would probably not align with EO.

Check out http://conservative-christian-forums.com//YaBB.pl
It was started by some people who left CF right after the changes started happening. There is an Orthodox subforum, as well as some interdenominational fellowship areas.

[Bushmaster78FS]

Why do you insist on the Ottoman?

There is a large section in Asia minor today that has nothing to hold on to but the triumphant, glorious days of the past. They have no hope of a glorious nation anymore, everything Ottoman way was/is better, these guys would study sultans, learn the law of the land to the tiny details, and listen to Mehteran (the Ottoman Army band) to motivate themselves. They are not happy with the Turkish Republic who is a puppet to the Great Satan and others in the West and a NATO union. There is much more into this passion, that is just the surface...

They tried to bash this into my head in HS but I wasn't into that at all. What you read in elementary towards college in history is completely biased! Always considered the other side of the medallion, that, it is a different picture... Of course, anything against Christ Jesus' message would be from the devil, and that in its nature is evil.

Oh that is Mehmed II, drawn by an Italian. We were taught to be proud of his genius that lead the fleet over the land, crossing the chains during the siege of Constantinople, history tells that it was a Byzantine gave him the idea... go figure... Though there have been always turks converted to Orthodoxy during the Ottoman reign, some became saints of course, since they would NOT renounce their faith...

[Bushmaster78FS]

I fail to see a difference - a turk is a turk



LOL LOL LOL NO EXCEPTIONS BRO? LOL LOL

[Xpycoctomos]

L:DL, love the insertion of dots as per the new name of this forum.

Well, since I'm not a Christian, any definition of "Christian" based on what's true dogma is irrelevant to me, as is the term "true Christian". For me, the only sensible use of the word would be to refer to any religious group claiming to be primarily based on the teachings of Jesus. If they are non-Nicene, I'd just refer to them as unorthodox Christians.
I know you would never refer to yourself as a Christian. My point is that, apparently here in foru.ms, the thinking is that if one claims to be a Christian, no one should say they are not, even if they are... muslim or something, because this would be judging. My point was simply that this sight has fallen into such silly relativism (and I am NOT referring to the na.me) that now Christian can mean ANYTHING... which in turn means that nothing means anything now.

It's like if I told you, I'm a follower of Islam because I submit to God. And you would be like "But you follow Christ's teachings and believe He was divine and you ignore Mohammed. You can't be a Muslim" but I say to you, "hey, don't judge me, a Muslim is one who submits per the name and I do that". I imagine after a while you would just have to give up and roll your eyes since i just keep proclaiming such absurdities. Now, imagine a Muslim (or you might say "Muslim") from your local Mosque started a forum with the ridiculous premise that what a Muslim is should not be defined in any clear way and then ads on the enigmatic statement of "and Muslims should reach out to non-Muslims"... but then how do you "reach out" to anyone if it is apparently judgemental to say that someone isn't a Muslim because their beliefs are off? Do you see the absurdity of it all?

John

[Michael the Iconographer]

w.h.a.c.k.e.d.....o.u.t dot com
:clap:

[ClementofRome]

Well, well, well........the FAITH section has now been moved to the top of the FORU.MS homepage!!!!!!!!!!

I guess all of the griping and complaining did something, huh?

[Khaleas]

Well, well, well........the FAITH section has now been moved to the top of the FORU.MS homepage!!!!!!!!!!

I guess all of the griping and complaining did something, huh?
You can ignore the pain but it's real hard to ignore that big monkey attached to your back... LOL

[nikolayalexandroff]

What mess is this?what happened to CF?What stupid changes and what stupid name....

To me all these reforms of recent were stupid and senseless.

[ClementofRome]

You can ignore the pain but it's real hard to ignore that big monkey attached to your back... LOL


No doubt sister!!!! And this monkey is the size of King Kong!!!! :doh:

[Dust and Ashes]

I find it kind of fascinating in a gory, morbid, train-wreck sort of way.

[Dorothea]

Well, well, well........the FAITH section has now been moved to the top of the FORU.MS homepage!!!!!!!!!!

I guess all of the griping and complaining did something, huh?
Cool! :D

[Macarius]

My guess is no, or will be soon. Our good Emperor is being attacked in his moderator application thread for his comments regarding Mormon heretics. At least one antagonist is claiming the 'new' vision of CF is to disallow orthodox Christian thought.
What's the link to that thread? I'm blind and can't find it...

[Macarius]

Actually it's Mehmed II. Who was far from as universally evil as Christians tend to portray him as. He's mainly known for the conquest of Constantinople, but was generally a very progressive ruler. Take a look at this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mehmed_II#Mehmed_II.27s_Firman_on_the_Freedom_of_the_Bosnian_Franciscans), from wikipedia.
If you'll pardon the comparison, that would be tantamount to making Adolf Hitler your avatar on a Jewish forum. The man sacked one of our greatest historical centers - he viciously persecuted our faith and way of life. He's offensive (and I don't mean this to be offensive to you - I'm fine with you posting here - but you have to understand how offensive it is to us).

I mean, Hitler was considered progressive for his day as well (he was at the cutting edge of genetics, bureaucratic efficiency, and military technology / strategy).

That doesn't mean he isn't deeply offensive to Jews (among others).

[disasm]

Normally, I would invoke godwin, but in this case, it actually fits.

For those that don't know the law of godwin, back in the 80's you could tell a thread was dead when someone mentioned Hitler or Nazis in a thread.

Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me the sinner.

[Futuwwa]

If you'll pardon the comparison, that would be tantamount to making Adolf Hitler your avatar on a Jewish forum. The man sacked one of our greatest historical centers - he viciously persecuted our faith and way of life. He's offensive (and I don't mean this to be offensive to you - I'm fine with you posting here - but you have to understand how offensive it is to us).

I mean, Hitler was considered progressive for his day as well (he was at the cutting edge of genetics, bureaucratic efficiency, and military technology / strategy).

That doesn't mean he isn't deeply offensive to Jews (among others).

Pardon me, but what is this vicious persecution you mention? Conquering the Hagia Sophia was one thing, but other than that, as far as I know, he kept the Byzantine church very much intact, even replacing the patriarch who had sold out to Rome to save the empire, in a way saving the patriarchate from itself. As for the sack of Constantinople, promising three days of plunder was a military necessity to motivate troops - assault in a siege is a very dangerous business. He even stopped the sack after one day when seeing the destruction it caused.

[EmperorConstantine]

My guess is no, or will be soon. Our good Emperor is being attacked in his moderator application thread for his comments regarding Mormon heretics. At least one antagonist is claiming the 'new' vision of CF is to disallow orthodox Christian thought.
That really gets me to no end. The application almost (if it hasn't already) has gone from me trying to be voted a mod of Theology, to a debate about Mormon theology and how it is not Christian by, what is now considered, Nicaean thought/standards/beliefs.

[EmperorConstantine]

Pardon me, but what is this vicious persecution you mention? Conquering the Hagia Sophia was one thing, but other than that, as far as I know, he kept the Byzantine church very much intact, even replacing the patriarch who had sold out to Rome to save the empire, in a way saving the patriarchate from itself. As for the sack of Constantinople, promising three days of plunder was a military necessity to motivate troops - assault in a siege is a very dangerous business. He even stopped the sack after one day when seeing the destruction it caused.
-Taxing the title of patriarch
-Replacing patriarchs in order to gain money from the title tax
-Moving the patriarchate to the Red Light District

Also what is great to note is the legacy that the Ottoman and Turkish governments have in terms of treating the Orthodox Church.

Shame I say, shame.

[DarkNLovely]

YAY! I'M THE 201TH POST! YAY THAT'S GREAT!!!

Who all is on Orthopraxsis?

[HowardDean]

Can I have the link for that?

[DarkNLovely]

Here goes!

http://z8.invisionfree.com/Orthopraxis/index.php?act=idx

[HowardDean]

I tried to register, but where one is supposed to put name, e address, etc its all blank.:help:

[Futuwwa]

-Taxing the title of patriarch
-Replacing patriarchs in order to gain money from the title tax
-Moving the patriarchate to the Red Light District

That sounds more like annoyances than the terrible persecution your friends claim Mehmed II subjected the Orthodox to, really.

[xristos.anesti]

That sounds more like annoyances than the terrible persecution your friends claim Mehmed II subjected the Orthodox to, really.

I do not want to sound harsh - but you are really starting to annoy me.

Do not come in here and tell us how 500 years of turkish occupation was all sweet and how turks were progressive -

turks are one of the most retarded and murderous empires that existed on this planet -

I am sick of your revisionism -

[Khaleas]

This place is starting to make me feel sick... and amazed on who wears flags... or not really surprised actually...

*fuzzy and hairy, fuzzy and hairy, fuuuuzzzzyyyyy and haaaaairy*

[Michael the Iconographer]

This place is starting to make me feel sick... and amazed on who wears flags... or not really surprised actually...

*fuzzy and hairy, fuzzy and hairy, fuuuuzzzzyyyyy and haaaaairy*
Are you leaving me my Finnish friend?

[Bushmaster78FS]

When you decided to bring down mod action on my username, I didn't fight but accepted the change.

What is wrong wih Janissary name? And the avatar... This is a little bit too much... I can't believe you are asked those things, it is paranoia.

Orthodox do not need to focus on these things? Why? Ottoman came and gone, Orthodox faith still exists, history is already written, if Mehmed II's portrait is in the avatar, how offensive is that going to get, and making him change is name, I can not believe that... Why not ban him altogether than? I am appalled by that.

How come noone is claiming pacifism and removing my stuff from my profile? Bushmaster is a serpent, how come noone complaining it was the devil in the garden... I mean come on... give the dude a break!


No, just because like I said I find it offensive. This is an orthodox christian forum , a congregational forum.

How come you are not complaining about an orthodox user around here with the name zhilan, who has a profile picture of pope kissing the Quran? Why not?

I would never go to a mulsim site with a cross... either.

Why not, you would be afraid? or ashamed, or should we be PC?

[Philothei]

Listen to your self .... Ottoman came and gone.... for 500 years it was not came and gone. And if it did so should be this guy.... he should be gone.... gone... You are a turk but do not "rub" Ottoman in here... And Yes I will not present a cross out of respect to their faith. And just for an example how come our hierarchy cannot wear their religious atire at Phanar:? if Turkey has religious tolerance??? ha explain that one and our Patriach almost got murdered a couple of times....and the Greay wolves... shall I go on and on?


I am out of here.... God bless the rest of you people.

Philothei

Ps. Khaleas Futuwwa is your kind (Finn)... Everyone look up what Futuwwa means too.... you will be supprised for what you will find...

[Michael the Iconographer]

Listen to your self .... Ottoman came and gone.... for 500 years it was not came and gone. And if it did so should be this guy.... he should be gone.... gone... You are a turk but do not "rub" Ottoman in here... And Yes I will not present a cross out of respect to their faith. And just for an example how come our hierarchy cannot wear their religious atire at Phanar:? if Turkey has religious tolerance??? ha explain that one and our Patriach almost got murdered a couple of times....and the Greay wolves... shall I go on and on?


I am out of here.... God bless the rest of you people.

Philothei

Ps. Khaleas Futuwwa is your kind (Finn)... Everyone look up what Futuwwa means too.... you will be supprised for what you will find...
I will email you to set up a time when I can come to DL with you and Prof C.

[Khaleas]

Ps. Khaleas Futuwwa is your kind (Finn)... Everyone look up what Futuwwa means too.... you will be supprised for what you will find...
He's far from my kind...

[Bushmaster78FS]

Listen to your self .... Ottoman came and gone.... for 500 years it was not came and gone.

And you are blaming this guy for it?

And if it did so should be this guy.... he should be gone.... gone...

What you are doing is personal, at least to my view... Are you holding a grudge? Leave islam aside, would you not introduce Orthodoxy to this guy? He just showed you that you actually lack knowledge about his late empire, what else you could be wrong about?

You are a turk but do not "rub" Ottoman in here...

DID I EVER? I am a Turk but I am also an Orthodox Christian. There are some painting with a broad brush.

And Yes I will not present a cross out of respect to their faith.

I disagree.

And just for an example how come our hierarchy cannot wear their religious atire at Phanar:? if Turkey has religious tolerance??? ha explain that one and our Patriach almost got murdered a couple of times....and the Greay wolves... shall I go on and on?

Greay Wolves? You are going somewhere else I didn't even intend to. I didn't defend current Turkish stance, nor their country, I hit on the issue how judged this dude from his avatar.

Everyone look up what Futuwwa means too.... you will be supprised for what you will find...

It is not anything bad...

[Shubunkin]

And you are blaming this guy for it?



What you are doing is personal, at least to my view... Are you holding a grudge? Leave islam aside, would you not introduce Orthodoxy to this guy? He just showed you that you actually lack knowledge about his late empire, what else you could be wrong about?



DID I EVER? I am a Turk but I am also an Orthodox Christian. There are some painting with a broad brush.



I disagree.



Greay Wolves? You are going somewhere else I didn't even intend to. I didn't defend current Turkish stance, nor their country, I hit on the issue how judged this dude from his avatar.



It is not anything bad...
Basically, I totally agree with you. However, someone coming into this board to quash the truth has no right to do that, in my opinion.

[Breaking Babylon]

YAY! I'M THE 201TH POST! YAY THAT'S GREAT!!!

Who all is on Orthopraxsis?

A lot of us. Come to the site and click the 'Members' link. :)

Can I have the link for that?

http://orthopraxis.uni.cc
http://orthopraxis.co.nr

When one goes down the other will be up :)

I hope to see you guys there.

HowardDean, try the links I posted, and if you still can't register PM me and I'll see if I can help you.

[Michael the Iconographer]

He's far from my kind...
What does Futuwwa mean?

[Seeker of the Truth]

What does Futuwwa mean?
Here's a Wiki article, here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Futuwa).

[Xpycoctomos]

I agree mostly with Bushmaster here.

Look, there is a LOT I could say about Turkey and when I think of... ERR! I'll drop it becuase I am already getting mad. BUt in the end, what are we accomplishing here? Look, Fuutwa, you're smart. You know your odd comments defending the Ottomans and downplaying the havoc the wreaked on the Church is going to offend us and push our buttons. The CHristian thing to do would be to turn the other cheek... but, we are human... please.. let's calla truce here and agree not to discuss these things here.

I want you to feel welcome here and for others to wnat to welcome you. You are child of God and you need Christ. So anytime you have a question, I hope you can come here and ask it.

I won't be here anylonger except to chekc my PMs every once and a while so if you would like, send me one. BUt let's put the politics aside.

And I ask the same of you guys. Would Christ be fighting with Fuutwa about all of this or would he be more concerned with his soul? I can say this much... I don't think He gives a care what Fuutwa or you or I think about the Ottoman empire.

And anyway, Philothei, I now understand why the avatar angers you so much but maybe when you see it you can try to just say a prayer for Mehmet II. Surely he needs it.

God bless you guys!

John

[Bushmaster78FS]

You are angered by his portrait, imagine if you carried his name as your first name because it is the tradition to name you after your grandpa. My mother never agreed to it, but it was forced, now I struggle with it wherever I am required to use my first name. Thankfully, I am adopting my baptismal name officially pretty soon, and dropping this, and no more of the prejudice and weird looks. I gotta do what I gotta do. You have this name, and unfortunate, our society will have an opinion ready for you, before they get to know you. Thanks to the likes of Atta.

[Futuwwa]

My apologies philothei, I didn't quite get what you wanted at first. Post #153 seemed like you wanted me to change avatar, #165 seemed to be okay with it, and in #210 you want it to be changed again. Anyway, it's done now.

[Futuwwa]

I agree mostly with Bushmaster here.

Look, there is a LOT I could say about Turkey and when I think of... ERR! I'll drop it becuase I am already getting mad. BUt in the end, what are we accomplishing here? Look, Fuutwa, you're smart. You know your odd comments defending the Ottomans and downplaying the havoc the wreaked on the Church is going to offend us and push our buttons. The CHristian thing to do would be to turn the other cheek... but, we are human... please.. let's calla truce here and agree not to discuss these things here.

I want you to feel welcome here and for others to wnat to welcome you. You are child of God and you need Christ. So anytime you have a question, I hope you can come here and ask it.

I won't be here anylonger except to chekc my PMs every once and a while so if you would like, send me one. BUt let's put the politics aside.

And I ask the same of you guys. Would Christ be fighting with Fuutwa about all of this or would he be more concerned with his soul? I can say this much... I don't think He gives a care what Fuutwa or you or I think about the Ottoman empire.

And anyway, Philothei, I now understand why the avatar angers you so much but maybe when you see it you can try to just say a prayer for Mehmet II. Surely he needs it.

God bless you guys!

John

Even though you said you won't be here, I'll reply since this is in part to everyone in this thread.

I don't want to deliberately argue Ottoman history, but when people accuse you of trolldom and motivate it by making dubious historical references, I of course will have to answer just to defend myself against the accusation. But I'm absolutely not here to rub anything in. I accept the truce you offer.

And just to make things clear, though the Ottomans fascinate me, I'm not some general Turk fanboy. I probably despise the Kemalist regime almost as much as everyone here.

[Bushmaster78FS]

My apologies philothei, I didn't quite get what you wanted at first. Post #153 seemed like you wanted me to change avatar, #165 seemed to be okay with it, and in #210 you want it to be changed again. Anyway, it's done now.


LOL LOL LOL... It is the other evil dude!

[Xpycoctomos]

Even though you said you won't be here, I'll reply since this is in part to everyone in this thread.

I don't want to deliberately argue Ottoman history, but when people accuse you of trolldom and motivate it by making dubious historical references, I of course will have to answer just to defend myself against the accusation. But I'm absolutely not here to rub anything in. I accept the truce you offer.

And just to make things clear, though the Ottomans fascinate me, I'm not some general Turk fanboy. I probably despise the Kemalist regime almost as much as everyone here.
Erwin just revently made some needed changes that I feel has brought the forum back to where it was and although I still feel it does not go far enough, if I was fine with it before, I can deal with it now.

Futuwwa, thank you for the proverbial olive=leaf you have offered us. I hope that we can all do better in the future here of showing you Christ's love and not holding your religion and your historical perspectives against you. I hope that in some small way we can't plant a seed in your heart and not leave a sour taste in your mouth about Christianity.

God bless you,

John

[Bushmaster78FS]

I hope that we can all do better in the future here of showing you Christ's love and not holding your religion and your historical perspectives against you. I hope that in some small way we can't plant a seed in your heart and not leave a sour taste in your mouth about Christianity.

You may call it prejudice, but I think he has already heard most of these and I don't think most of these guys are impressed with it. Not speaking for him of course, it is not the reason they are here. One needs to seek to find the seed, if that is planted, and about 99% of them on these forums, including Non-Christian Religion, are in the Pontius Pilate (Quid est Veritas?) mode instead of Nicodemus (how can that be?) mode...

[Xpycoctomos]

One needs to seek to find the seed


I don't agree...

and about 99% of them on these forums, including Non-Christian Religion, are in the Pontius Pilate (Quid est Veritas?) mode instead of Nicodemus (how can that be?) mode...

Popular Early Christian teaching among many was and still is that Pontius Pilate became a Christian before dying and actively travelled to spread the Word.

Saint Paul wasn't seeking either.

[Bushmaster78FS]

It is ok to disagree and I am glad you do, however I know some of these people... Again it is ultimately God who is doing the work, of course you are going to sow, I have a guy I am working with very slowly, but never on the net. Personal interaction is required in my opinion. But also, they have to have it in the heart, they have to open that heart.
How can we know if they are writing appreciative words to your welcome and your offer of our Lord but then on the other side of the screen laughing their butts off at you? It is me I think, I am speaking my mind.

Although Pontius Pilate's person was not my point, it is the question he asked and the way he asked of the Lord. Does that ring a bell with you maybe? Drop by Non-Christian Religion sometime.

Saint Paul... Futtuwa/Janissary is not Saint Paul. Sorry to be pessimistic but he won't become him either.

[Xpycoctomos]

How can we know if they are writing appreciative words to your welcome and your offer of our Lord but then on the other side of the screen laughing their butts off at you?


You don't.

[Bushmaster78FS]

Yep, pretty much, ok nothing to argue about this, though I will be cautious...