Coming from someone with a Bateman PFP; honestly says alot tbh. You'd think you'd just dislike them; but I think it shows what good people they really are.
My Grandmother is from West Virginia. My family and I converted to Orthodoxy 3 years ago. I really hope someday we can visit WV, especially the monastery.
I am Texan, and looking very seriously into Eastern Orthodoxy. Protestantism feels dead to me, but Orthodoxy is so clearly alive. It’s as alive as our Lord and His saints.
Go to an Orthodox church and witness the service. it is so beautiful and just feels like your soul is healing. then after you can go up to the priest and ask him questions that you are still not sure of, like scripture and tradition and communion and such. it is a beautiful experience. God bless you
I’m from Tennessee, and I’m not Orthodox but I love to see y’all’s dedication to the Gospel and what y’all have been doing here in Appalachia! God bless you!
If you ever get to travel through WV, I suggest stopping at Holy Cross for a bit. There is also an Orthodox monastery in Monteagle Orthodox Monastery of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow.
For me as an orthodox Christian whose identity and traditions are firmly established in Orthodoxy many centuries ago, it is truly inspiring to know that our ancient Orthodox faith is flourishing in the USA. Greetings from Serbia!
It is, I am Assyrian Orthodox from Iraq. Immigrated to US, and married Orthodox man, who comes from a Mennonite family but became part of the Orthodox church. The Orthodox churches have grown around me.
I live in eastern WV. Was secular atheist for most of my life but I'm 15 now and planning to convert to Orthodoxy. Good to see I have company. God bless 🙏
I was also raised atheist and found Christ in my young teens then orthodoxy at 14-15 and was baptized at 16 in a small country mission church. It’s been a decade now and a journey of crucifixion and resurrection on the Way of Christ. God bless you brother. God is merciful to us for giving us the Church in a such a secular, barren land of USA we live in. The fullness of God’s grace is pouring out for us to taste.
I was 15 and an atheist too. I can assure you, taking the journey to seriously look at Orthodoxy and the grander truth of Jesus and the Bible will change your life. You've probably heard all the atheistic propaganda, so do your own research. Delve into philosophy, and history. Think about this; you can not see, hear, smell, taste or touch numbers but we all agree math exists right? We all agree logic exists right? Where are they in the material universe?
I think this goes to show how orthodoxy is truly growing into the US culture. We’re breaking the ethnic barriers to establish the Orthodox Church for Americans. Still orthodox but uniquely American. Truly beautiful
Amen! Gloria al Padre e al Figlio e allo Spirito Santo , come era al principio ora e sempre, nei secoli dei secoli. Amen. Da una Romana Cattolica benedizioni ai fratelli Ortodossi, Napoli- Italia ❤
Until you have been to West Virginia you have no clue about how magical it is. There is just something special about places like it and much of rural Appalachia. You will never find a more giving group of people who have endured so much strife and toil.
I am a devout and proud Roman Catholic, but Orthodox Christians move me in many ways. And I have a profound respect for my Orthodox Cousins! God's peace be with us all.
I am from South Carolina. I am of Melougeon ancestory and my people came from Appalachia. I grew up in the mountains of South Carolina. My friend who built a Church near my local Area. I found home in Orthodoxy. Grew up as a Evangelical South Baptist. I found peace in church on a small farm in my local area. I am a catechumen being Baptized soon in the coming January of 2024 in a few months. I hope I can spread orthodoxy to my local area. God Bless u all.
Can you do me a huge favor??? I was born Roman Catholic but fell out into the world as a teenager. I came back to my Catholicism in 2019. I LOVE my church. I LOVE my Priest. I LOVE the parishioners. I just love the old extraordinary form of the Latin Mass and the history. The antiquity of re-enacting the new covenant of the Last Supper... But honestly, I don't trust Rome & I hate the title "Vicar of Christ" for the Pope. Who is NOT his earthly substitute... Can you give me information, advice. Is there any specific research I can do about the split of Eastern Orthodoxy and the structure of your church? There's a Coptic Church a block over from me. It's all Egyptian and here in Staten Island NY, I feel weird just walking in because the church really just sticks to itself and isn't out in the community. I guess cuz we're all Italians & Irish. Not even sure if there's an Aramaic language barrier. But anyone please comment back suggestions. There's alot of E.O. Churches around me
@@nofurtherwest3474 the simplest explanation would be that is the only True Church, but then you might say I am biased. However, just think of it: orthodox is synonym of- what in English? When you want to try a new thing, you say "I will do it in UNorthodox way" - meaning: non traditional way. So simply, orthodoxy is basically something that is traditional. And it is so traditional that even the word orthodox stuck in english to explain "traditional". So if there is one church which is definitely keeping tradition...I mean, even the word tells you - then it is an orthodox (traditional) church. Also, let's keep on playing wirth the words. Roman catholics, reformed their beliefs after Great Schism. then protestants also reformed their church with Martin Luther. Let's again think of the word: reformed. Re-formed. So something was formed (traditionally) but then it was reformed? Like my friend said - when I drink of a paper cup then I squeeze it - it is nof in a new form. reformed. And that way, reformed, that plastic cup is not good anymore, for what its purpose is. Same goes with reformed churches. Just my opinion.
@@nofurtherwest3474It is evangelical, but not protestant. It is Catholic, but not Roman. It is Orthodox, but not Jewish. It isn't a denomination, it is pre-denominational. It exists to worship the Holy Trinity and to guide it's members to transform and conform their lives to that of our saviour, Jesus Christ.
If you ever get to travel through WV, I suggest stopping at Holy Cross for a bit. There is also an Orthodox monastery in Monteagle Orthodox Monastery of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow.
As an Appalachian American in Pennsylvania, i grew up protestant. Struggled with my faith and found Christ again, feeling the draw towards orthodoxy. I pray I can pilgrimage to Holy Cross. I pray that Appalachia in whole thrives in christ again.
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV I have a lot of ancestry in Calhoun, Logan, Roane, Kanawha counties. God bless you folks. Hope to visit when I am in the region again.
I'm Catholic, and I've always been fascinated by the traditions, faith, artwork, etc from my Orthodox cousins. So much beautiful history that just pulls you in.
@@lisaharmon8401 They still are. It's just been obscured by some of the management. Focus on the owner. There's still many beautiful Catholic churches out there rich in traditions. There's even beautiful Episcopalian/Anglican churches which came into the Catholic Church that have so much beauty and traditions I have seen.
An incredible story for me, a Russian Orthodox Christian from Russia! Greetings to all, brothers! This is really an incredible story, Orthodoxy in the American outback and from here in Russia it all looks incredible! Although I knew earlier that Orthodoxy is now becoming popular in America. An Orthodox priest, Joseph Gleason, has been living in Yaroslavl for a long time, he is an American and came to live and serve in Russia from America. He maintains his website and talks there, among other things, about Orthodoxy in America. Good luck to all and God bless you and your families, brothers in Christ!)
Im not even a Christian but I read "Appalachian Orthodoxy" and got me interested. Beautiful story. I love tradition and I admire the beauty of the ancient traditions of Orthodoxy. One thing I pick up on is unlike western Catholics, the Orthodox seem to cherish their traditions.
I was raised Buddhist/agnostic/new age for 30 years I saw The Greatest Story Never Told by Dennis Wise and believed in one night. Then it took a few years to find Orthodoxy.
The Orthodox Church and the Catholic church was the same church originally after it was set up in the new testament, eventually little by little the bishop of Rome started to aggregate more individual power and changing creeds and dogma eventually leading to the Papacy and changes within the creed that we established when the church was whole. Even the catholic church of the 1930's is very much ideologically and geopolitically different from the catholic church today. Which is radically different to the EO church, any of the apostles or early church christians were transported to an orthodox divine liturgy in 2024 they feel quite at home. Sorry for the shpeel but I wanted to show why they're so different lol
Поздрави от София, България и успех в построяването на вашия храм. "Защото Бог толкоз обикна света, че отдаде Своя Единороден Син, та всякой, който вярва в Него, да не погине, а да има живот вечен." (Йоан 3:16).
Не в обиду тебе будет сказано, но данная цитата будучи написанной на церковнославянском языке (староболгарском) мне намного проще понять, чем когда она стала написана тобой на современном болгарском языке. Все таки наши языки разошлись очень далеко.
This drove me to tears, I am beyond grateful that Christian Orthodoxy is spreading here in the United States and that I recently found Christs beautiful Church. Alleluia! Good job brothers. This fills me with pride not only for my Lord Jesus Christ but my beautiful country. ❤️ ☦️
A MOST BEAUTIFUL, AND PRECIOUS STORY! I SO MUCH ENJOYED IT, AND LOOK FOWARD TO HEARING MORE IN THE FUTURE! GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU! BENI MALACHIE ORRTIS AN ETHIOPIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN.
I live in Wayne county WV. In the town of Wayne. Less than 1,000 people in this town. Strange seeing a video about my small town. Also very interesting to hear the story of the monks that live here. I've seen them many times. Good people. I lived across their small church for a while. I had no idea they were building a larger one. I wish them the absolute best.
Dude, I went to Buffalo, have friends and lovers who went and taught at Wayne. 77 - 85. Went to Marshall after that and still talk to people that live next to Beech Fork or twelve -ole creek and this is the first I have heard of this. I know where the Catholic workers camp in Lincoln county is, butthis is new. WTF
Introduce yourself Daniel 😊 you don't have to join but just respect the people & nature. With walks you will feel the Peace at this special homestead .
Храни вас Господь! Так удивительно было наткнуться на Ваш чудесный канал, и так трогательно увидеть столь трепетное отношение к родному краю, к основателям общины. идѣ́же бо еста́ два́ или́ трiе́ со́брани во и́мя Мое́, ту́ е́смь посредѣ́ и́хъ. (Мф.18:20)
I found this very interesting! My family have been Orthodox as far back as we can remember and my descendants never chose to convert to Islam under the black hand that was the Ottoman enslavement of the Balkans. It is inspiring to see the true Christian path being walked by so many faithful now in the United States. Thank you so much for the content! ☦️
Well, that must be where the masterpiece "Country Roads" came from! The feeling of absolute perfection and grace of God, in both the video and the above mentioned song. Of course, John Denver couldn't have known anything about Appalachian Orthodoxy appearing decades after his death, but... God moves in mysterious ways!
I'm an Orthodox in latin america, there are not many Orthodox here but only because people didn't even know the Orthodox Christians exists Now we are growing ☦️✝️
Please keep shining forth the light of Christ in our darkening times. Watching this has been a comfort hard to express. Brotherly regards from Germany.
The Orthodox Church is still strong in places like the US, even when it has become a corrupted arm of Putin's mafia state back home in Russia. Greek Church has a good reputation in the US and still in Europe.
I converted to the Orthodox Church last year ☦️ My family is roman catholic but i never fully liked the western style and following an italian heretic I'm Glad the Orthodox Church is now also a part of the Western World ☦️ Χριστός Ανέστη
I'm Protestant but this is such a beautiful story of faithfulness to Christ and the community. Praise God, and may He continue to grow the faith in the mountains.
Wow. My father and his side are from ST petersburg. My mother and her kin born and raised randolph county WV. I was born in Ohio and baptized orthodox but moved back to West Virginia with my mom and was raised as any hillbilly. It was hard to not feel excluded by my faith and identity. This video was a huge comfort
I'm the son of rural Appalachians, whose families farmed and mined coal, who loves the timeless landscape of West Virginia. And I'm a Presbyterian brother in Christ who is increasingly attracted to the unshakeable truths and traditions of Orthodoxy in this darkening world. I've long thought those two aspects were as distinct and irreconcilable as imaginable, but your story has truly broadened my vision. God Bless.
It is a massive relief, entering a Divine Liturgy, that the clear focus is God and not your mortal baggage. It is highly accessible and I encourage you to go experience it. :+ )
My Godson's abd I just got home 15 minutes ago from our first blessed visit to Holy Cross. Sadly we had to leave early due to the eminent passing of a loved one. I drove all night 10 hours on pretty much no sleep. But the joy we carried woth us from our visit was with us the entire way. With God's help we are home safe. The moment i laid down to finally sleep i opened my phone and this video was there waiting for me. A final note to our pilgrimage. Fathers, thabk you for welcoming us and blessing us during our time with you. Pray for us, Nicholas, Eustice, and John.
У меня слезы от одной мысли: маленькое зернышко веры православной дочери священника тронуло душу ее мужа и далее этот росток веры превратился в большую ветвь растущую из древа Православной Церкви. Слава Богу за всё!
I wasn't able to comprehend Orthodoxy, spiritual warfare definitely blinds many of us who don't clam a denomination or are part of protestantism. The Holy Spirit helped me realize how the church, church history and traditions and the Bible are like a beautiful quilt woven together.
I was born in Ohio and I wish I could move back and visit this church. I'm stuck in a very materialistic and shrewd place in California. My only chance to return is my dying grandmother that I'm asking prayer for. God bless Your church!
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV - Her name is Judy Meek, Sir! Thank You and God bless! Christ is Risen! ☦️ She was never baptized and She only knows the old testament and I worry about all the family strife and separation. She needs mercy. I appreciate You very much!!! sincerely: PJ P.S: Would You please pray for my health too? I have sought Orthodoxy but they either don't speak English or other obstacles over here. I hope I'm not bothering but do You also have a mailing address for donations via money order? I would love to donate that way to write letters for prayer requests and I'll try to keep them brief. I was born Pentecostal and only discovered Orthodoxy a few years ago Thank U, God bless!
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV my Orthodox brothers in Christ! If I could ask of you to pray for my mother in Serbia, Melanija Radovic (pronounce melaneeya radovich) . She has cancer but currently also having thrombosis which makes her can't move and almost immobilized in the bed. Please brothers, have her in your prayers. Glory to God. I will definitely come to visit you, hopefully this fall/ winter.
Appalachian orthodox brothers and sisters, it was great seeing you all practicing Christian😢 like our early church fathers and maintaining these true Christian traditions, culture and values without losing who we are and appreciating nature like our forefathers. We are the future of humanity so live by example like Christ showed us. Never forget orthodoxy is a journey not a destination No matter how hard it is, as long as you live be happy, be kind to others and be grateful to God. You are the protector of Christian faith and it’s people.
I've been blessed to visit this place when passing through. On one of those visits, I was invited to come to the cemetery where they were commemorating the graves, shortly after Pascha (Easter). The other visit, I was allowed to spend some time alone in the chapel dedicated to St Panteleimon. The air is so thick with holiness in that place that you feel like time is suspended. I saw where they had broken ground for the new chapel, and it looks like they are making tremendous progress. May God bless the monks of West Virginia, and may they continue to pray for us...
Though the path before my wife and I is one full of unknowns - I can only hope one day we will be able to build a life, a home, and live near to Holy Cross Monastery. Somehow, someway be closer to the Real World.
It is something my wife and I are intending on doing once our ability to travel is made easier! She has to do dialysis every 12 hours to keep her functioning due to end stage renal failure, we're patiently waiting on a kidney so we can be able to get our lives back in order and be able to make pilgrimages and just--even start a family.@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV
I belong to Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville NY. Am positive most know where I mean, or have heard of it, and am a baptized Christian/Orthodox. Just know the Lord will be blessing you all at Holy Trinity Monastery, and you are prospering and will greatly, because you have the Lord with you. I do send prayers, and blessings to you.
It’s wonderful to see the Holy Spirit bringing Orthodoxy to Appalachia. Truth, kindness and service to others equals love ❤ There are many forms of goodness and they’re all expressions of God’s love. We can all elevate ourself in God’s eyes by practicing love. Life is about service to others, brothers and sisters. Every new day is another opportunity to grow and be of service. Blessings to all!
Visited the monastery on a pilgrimage from our church in DC back in 2011 Will never forget the friendly and humble monks, beautiful scenery and out of this world Divine Liturgy. Thank you so much!
I grew up in the Orthodox Church and served in the OCA. And while I am no longer a Christian, I fully support this beautiful monastery and the work of the monks. It just proves that you don’t have to go all the way to Mount Athos, as I did, to find the heart of Orthodoxy. Happy to make a small donation to the building of your new sanctuary.
I don’t know, but you may appreciate John Crowder’s TH-cam videos on the Orthodox Church. Here is part one th-cam.com/video/U_OFJIPGVys/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared
I was raised catholic ( probably the only one in my extended family that has read and continues to study The Word) . The Orthodox church is the only church I would attend. Russian or Greek I can't say as I'm ignorant but for 3yrs now I've been drawn to Orthodoxy.
You're welcome any time! Just give us a call and come out for the day. (304) 849-2072. You can join us for prayers and a meal, and get a tour of the monastery grounds.
That shocked me! I live in Ashland too! I know nothing of orthodox Christianity but as you know we have plenty of Baptist churches here. I just started going to unity.
Gonna have to make a journey there one day. My brother-in-law introduced me and my sister to Orthodox Christianity and found it to be the closest ways to the gospels. We still have questions about some things but are eager to learn and find out. God bless you guys 🙏🏼❤️🔥
I am a former catholic who converted to Orthodoxy almost 2 years ago. When I made the choice I felt like I had returned to the home I never knew I had. Thanks for this video, I will definitely make my own personal pilgrimage to the Monastery.
I am being drawn towards orthodox Christianity…..born into the Church of England 🏴 I feel I need to return to the church….I was I lived near such a beacon of hope and faith God bless you all 🙏🏻🏴🇬🇧
Wonderful video. May God bless my Orthodox brothers and sisters in Appalachia, and bless the Holy Cross Monastery for the work that they do in fostering the Orthodox faith in America.
Im 35 years old and i live in Berkeley county West Virginia. For about 2 years now ive been strongly thinking about serving jesus christ in a monastery but didn't know where to look or where to go. Then this video popped up just when i needed it and close to Christmas time. I would love to come and be a part of this monastery.
What a treat to hear David Schnaufer playing his mountain dulcimer composition in the last part of this video. It’s a perfect match. David called it ‘When Silence Was Golden’. David LOVED West Virginia.
From the troparion for the Port Arthur Icon that's kept at the monastery: "O Orthodox Christians of North America, preserve the Orthodox Faith, for this Faith is your firm foundation." You can learn more about the icon here: www.holycross.org/pages/port-arthur-icon-of-the-triumph-of-the-theotokos. Every year, we celebrate the feast of the icon on May 26th, the anniversary of the brotherhood's arrival in West Virginia.
I visited this monastery 10 years ago. It is a beautiful place. I love how it has grown up even more. I had very touching experiences with God’s grace in that place. If I lived closer, I would go more often. Fortunately, I do live close to another wonderful monastery that I visit regularly, and I continue to find wonderful spiritual guidance and direction there. Thank God for these gemstones in the hollers!
I know that this holy site tucked away in of one of God’s prettiest creations will bring many people to the Orthodox Church. I pray the construction continues swiftly and safely, God bless.
In a SE area of Portland, Oregon, we lived next door to a BIG family. Very sweet folk. Turned out they were all Russian Orthodox Christians. I miss them.
Stumbled upon your channel . Im of Greek Orthodox very much the one and same as the Russian . Christianity was introduced into Kievan Rus by Greek missionaries from the Byzantine Empire in the 9th century. In 863-869 . My dad and mum Got married in the first joint Catholic and Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony , conducted by two priest from each christian faith , back in the 50s in North London in the UK . And i was baptised in the Troodos mountains of Cyprus at Trooditissa Monastery . all the Best Roland .
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
Please consider donating to help us finish building our new church! Donate at www.holycross.org/pages/new-church.
I already did it ❤️🔥 we are a Family in Christ ☦️
God will be there in a few minutes, he works in mysterious ways, father is watching
Want to donate! How?
VA IUBIM DIN ROMANIA ORTODOXA 🇷🇴✝️❤️
Done! Hugs from Montenegro to our brothers and sisters in Appalachian Mountains!
I’m their UPS man! Great people
thank you UPS man! They depend on you :)
They really are!
Thanks man. Wouldnt have gotten my Holy Cross Monsatery stuff if it wasnt for you.
Coming from someone with a Bateman PFP; honestly says alot tbh. You'd think you'd just dislike them; but I think it shows what good people they really are.
Retired UPS Return Clerk, NYC. Amen brother! Blessings to you and to your family 🙏
My Grandmother is from West Virginia.
My family and I converted to Orthodoxy 3 years ago. I really hope someday we can visit WV, especially the monastery.
I am Texan, and looking very seriously into Eastern Orthodoxy. Protestantism feels dead to me, but Orthodoxy is so clearly alive. It’s as alive as our Lord and His saints.
continue looking into christian history brother. glad you're finally on the right path. Matthew 7:13-14
Great to hear that! God bless you and your loved ones 🙏❤️☦️
It's a beautiful journey bro. Go to an Orthodox church and experience the liturgy. Talk to a priest
Go to an Orthodox church and witness the service. it is so beautiful and just feels like your soul is healing. then after you can go up to the priest and ask him questions that you are still not sure of, like scripture and tradition and communion and such. it is a beautiful experience. God bless you
From one Texan to another. I converted in 2015 best thing i ever did and there is no turning back.
I’m from Tennessee, and I’m not Orthodox but I love to see y’all’s dedication to the Gospel and what y’all have been doing here in Appalachia! God bless you!
If you ever get to travel through WV, I suggest stopping at Holy Cross for a bit. There is also an Orthodox monastery in Monteagle Orthodox Monastery
of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow.
@@1dcondavethere's a monastery just a couple miles from my house, on 41 in resaca.
Bog the blagoslovio prijatelju!
For me as an orthodox Christian whose identity and traditions are firmly established in Orthodoxy many centuries ago, it is truly inspiring to know that our ancient Orthodox faith is flourishing in the USA. Greetings from Serbia!
It is, I am Assyrian Orthodox from Iraq. Immigrated to US, and married Orthodox man, who comes from a Mennonite family but became part of the Orthodox church. The Orthodox churches have grown around me.
My Serb great grandparents ended up in West Virginia. I also have deep roots in Appalachia. Scots English.
It's a weird arc, but I'm vibing with it.
Same, brother, same. But I'm not Eastern European but I'm very glad Orthodoxy is spreading.
I'm an American living in Serbia and love your great country 🇷🇸
I live in eastern WV. Was secular atheist for most of my life but I'm 15 now and planning to convert to Orthodoxy. Good to see I have company. God bless 🙏
May God bless you.
I was also raised atheist and found Christ in my young teens then orthodoxy at 14-15 and was baptized at 16 in a small country mission church. It’s been a decade now and a journey of crucifixion and resurrection on the Way of Christ. God bless you brother. God is merciful to us for giving us the Church in a such a secular, barren land of USA we live in. The fullness of God’s grace is pouring out for us to taste.
Fantastic! May Christ brimg you close to him.
I was 15 and an atheist too. I can assure you, taking the journey to seriously look at Orthodoxy and the grander truth of Jesus and the Bible will change your life. You've probably heard all the atheistic propaganda, so do your own research. Delve into philosophy, and history. Think about this; you can not see, hear, smell, taste or touch numbers but we all agree math exists right? We all agree logic exists right? Where are they in the material universe?
> Is 15
> "Most of my life"
Lol just giving you a hard time, welcome to Orthodoxy
I think this goes to show how orthodoxy is truly growing into the US culture. We’re breaking the ethnic barriers to establish the Orthodox Church for Americans. Still orthodox but uniquely American. Truly beautiful
Слава Отцу, и Сыну, и Святому Духу, и ныне и присно, и во веки веков.
Аминь!
Амин🙏
Amen! ✝️
Amen! Gloria al Padre e al Figlio e allo Spirito Santo , come era al principio ora e sempre, nei secoli dei secoli. Amen. Da una Romana Cattolica benedizioni ai fratelli Ortodossi, Napoli- Italia ❤
Glory be to the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now , and ever shall be world without end Amen 🙏🏼
Roman Catholic NY
Until you have been to West Virginia you have no clue about how magical it is. There is just something special about places like it and much of rural Appalachia. You will never find a more giving group of people who have endured so much strife and toil.
I am a devout and proud Roman Catholic, but Orthodox Christians move me in many ways. And I have a profound respect for my Orthodox Cousins! God's peace be with us all.
Beautifully said & Amen!
I am from South Carolina. I am of Melougeon ancestory and my people came from Appalachia. I grew up in the mountains of South Carolina. My friend who built a Church near my local Area. I found home in Orthodoxy. Grew up as a Evangelical South Baptist. I found peace in church on a small farm in my local area. I am a catechumen being Baptized soon in the coming January of 2024 in a few months. I hope I can spread orthodoxy to my local area. God Bless u all.
I’m over here in horry county, hoping to spread the faith!
Amen brother!
Welcome home
Ethiopian orthodox here, my husband was Muslim converted to orthodoxy 4 years back and I can’t wait to visit one day ❤️🤲🏾🕊️
That’s amazing my love, did he convert to the pure faith before marriage ? Love from Eritrean orthodox ❤️
God bless you and your husband 🙏
God bless you 🙏
These are Coptic times we live in.
Can you do me a huge favor??? I was born Roman Catholic but fell out into the world as a teenager. I came back to my Catholicism in 2019. I LOVE my church. I LOVE my Priest. I LOVE the parishioners. I just love the old extraordinary form of the Latin Mass and the history. The antiquity of re-enacting the new covenant of the Last Supper... But honestly,
I don't trust Rome & I hate the title "Vicar of Christ" for the Pope. Who is NOT his earthly substitute...
Can you give me information, advice. Is there any specific research I can do about the split of Eastern Orthodoxy and the structure of your church?
There's a Coptic Church a block over from me. It's all Egyptian and here in Staten Island NY, I feel weird just walking in because the church really just sticks to itself and isn't out in the community. I guess cuz we're all Italians & Irish. Not even sure if there's an Aramaic language barrier. But anyone please comment back suggestions. There's alot of E.O. Churches around me
I am from East Tennessee, I am happy my Appalachian brothers in West Virginia is accepting Orthodoxy!
I too am from East Tennessee and came to Orthodoxy in Western N.C. My heart is overjoyed to see the Church growing in Appalachia.
Can you explain simply what is Orthodoxy?
@@nofurtherwest3474 the simplest explanation would be that is the only True Church, but then you might say I am biased. However, just think of it: orthodox is synonym of- what in English? When you want to try a new thing, you say "I will do it in UNorthodox way" - meaning: non traditional way.
So simply, orthodoxy is basically something that is traditional. And it is so traditional that even the word orthodox stuck in english to explain "traditional".
So if there is one church which is definitely keeping tradition...I mean, even the word tells you - then it is an orthodox (traditional) church.
Also, let's keep on playing wirth the words. Roman catholics, reformed their beliefs after Great Schism. then protestants also reformed their church with Martin Luther.
Let's again think of the word: reformed. Re-formed. So something was formed (traditionally) but then it was reformed?
Like my friend said - when I drink of a paper cup then I squeeze it - it is nof in a new form. reformed. And that way, reformed, that plastic cup is not good anymore, for what its purpose is.
Same goes with reformed churches. Just my opinion.
@@nofurtherwest3474It is evangelical, but not protestant. It is Catholic, but not Roman. It is Orthodox, but not Jewish. It isn't a denomination, it is pre-denominational.
It exists to worship the Holy Trinity and to guide it's members to transform and conform their lives to that of our saviour, Jesus Christ.
If you ever get to travel through WV, I suggest stopping at Holy Cross for a bit. There is also an Orthodox monastery in Monteagle Orthodox Monastery
of the Mother of God, Joy of All Who Sorrow.
Best wishes,
from an orthodox christian, far away in the island of Crete in Hellas country, but still close enough through our Lord's heart.
Thank you for your kind wishes! Please keep us in your prayers!
I'm from East Tennessee, please pray for our tiny Orthodox Church.
Where are you from brother? Are you visiting TN Monteagle monastery ?
@@montozza4217 My guess is Saint Nektarios
You are in my thoughts and prayers, my Orthodox Christian brothers.☦❤🙏🇺🇲
Which church please? I'm exploring orthodoxy and have deep roots in East TN
As an Appalachian American in Pennsylvania, i grew up protestant. Struggled with my faith and found Christ again, feeling the draw towards orthodoxy. I pray I can pilgrimage to Holy Cross. I pray that Appalachia in whole thrives in christ again.
You’re in the perfect place PA has a large Orthodox population. I think second only to Alaska in terms of population
May God bless you brothers and sisters! From Russia with love.
I am a Catholic, but, my respects to y’all brothers. do no mistake do it to last, that’s how the Lord showed us.
appalachian orthodoxy is really beautiful, greetings from a Rum orthodox from lebanon
Slava Bogu. Greetings from Montenegro!
Orthodoxy and Appalachia are a perfect spiritual fit.
We think so too!
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV I have a lot of ancestry in Calhoun, Logan, Roane, Kanawha counties. God bless you folks. Hope to visit when I am in the region again.
I'm Catholic, and I've always been fascinated by the traditions, faith, artwork, etc from my Orthodox cousins. So much beautiful history that just pulls you in.
You may not be aware, as I was not, but until about sixty years ago Roman Catholics were also rich in faith and art and tradition
The Eastern Catholics maintain all that tradition AND unity with Rome!
Catholics have all of that as well. Perhaps your areas churches are lacking but it’s not missing from the broader Catholic Church.
If you're feeling pulled, then please, come in! "No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him." (John 6:44)
@@lisaharmon8401 They still are. It's just been obscured by some of the management. Focus on the owner. There's still many beautiful Catholic churches out there rich in traditions. There's even beautiful Episcopalian/Anglican churches which came into the Catholic Church that have so much beauty and traditions I have seen.
Visited it in February 2023 and will never forget the warm welcome and serene surroundings. Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy 🤲🏿🤲🏿🤲🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿
An incredible story for me, a Russian Orthodox Christian from Russia! Greetings to all, brothers! This is really an incredible story, Orthodoxy in the American outback and from here in Russia it all looks incredible! Although I knew earlier that Orthodoxy is now becoming popular in America. An Orthodox priest, Joseph Gleason, has been living in Yaroslavl for a long time, he is an American and came to live and serve in Russia from America. He maintains his website and talks there, among other things, about Orthodoxy in America. Good luck to all and God bless you and your families, brothers in Christ!)
Im not even a Christian but I read "Appalachian Orthodoxy" and got me interested. Beautiful story. I love tradition and I admire the beauty of the ancient traditions of Orthodoxy. One thing I pick up on is unlike western Catholics, the Orthodox seem to cherish their traditions.
Book
The Orthodox Church by Bishop kallistos Ware
I was raised Buddhist/agnostic/new age for 30 years I saw The Greatest Story Never Told by Dennis Wise and believed in one night. Then it took a few years to find Orthodoxy.
The Orthodox Church and the Catholic church was the same church originally after it was set up in the new testament, eventually little by little the bishop of Rome started to aggregate more individual power and changing creeds and dogma eventually leading to the Papacy and changes within the creed that we established when the church was whole. Even the catholic church of the 1930's is very much ideologically and geopolitically different from the catholic church today. Which is radically different to the EO church, any of the apostles or early church christians were transported to an orthodox divine liturgy in 2024 they feel quite at home. Sorry for the shpeel but I wanted to show why they're so different lol
Godspeed. Check out the Appalachian Orthodox chant from Charleston SC. just google Appalachian Orthodox chant God is with Us” and you can listen.
You can visit st. Antony monastery in Arizona if you want
Exactly like mountain Athos
Поздрави от София, България и успех в построяването на вашия храм.
"Защото Бог толкоз обикна света, че отдаде Своя Единороден Син, та всякой, който вярва в Него, да не погине, а да има живот вечен." (Йоан 3:16).
Pozdrav iz Chicago brat 🇷🇸🇷🇺🇧🇾🇧🇬
Не в обиду тебе будет сказано, но данная цитата будучи написанной на церковнославянском языке (староболгарском) мне намного проще понять, чем когда она стала написана тобой на современном болгарском языке. Все таки наши языки разошлись очень далеко.
This drove me to tears, I am beyond grateful that Christian Orthodoxy is spreading here in the United States and that I recently found Christs beautiful Church. Alleluia! Good job brothers. This fills me with pride not only for my Lord Jesus Christ but my beautiful country. ❤️ ☦️
me too
A MOST BEAUTIFUL, AND PRECIOUS STORY! I SO MUCH ENJOYED IT, AND LOOK FOWARD TO HEARING MORE IN THE FUTURE! GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU! BENI MALACHIE ORRTIS AN ETHIOPIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN.
I live in Wayne county WV. In the town of Wayne. Less than 1,000 people in this town. Strange seeing a video about my small town. Also very interesting to hear the story of the monks that live here. I've seen them many times. Good people. I lived across their small church for a while. I had no idea they were building a larger one. I wish them the absolute best.
Dude, I went to Buffalo, have friends and lovers who went and taught at Wayne. 77 - 85. Went to Marshall after that and still talk to people that live next to Beech Fork or twelve -ole creek and this is the first I have heard of this. I know where the Catholic workers camp in Lincoln county is, butthis is new. WTF
Introduce yourself Daniel 😊 you don't have to join but just respect the people & nature. With walks you will feel the Peace at this special homestead .
Храни вас Господь! Так удивительно было наткнуться на Ваш чудесный канал, и так трогательно увидеть столь трепетное отношение к родному краю, к основателям общины. идѣ́же бо еста́ два́ или́ трiе́ со́брани во и́мя Мое́, ту́ е́смь посредѣ́ и́хъ. (Мф.18:20)
I found this very interesting!
My family have been Orthodox as far back as we can remember and my descendants never chose to convert to Islam under the black hand that was the Ottoman enslavement of the Balkans.
It is inspiring to see the true Christian path being walked by so many faithful now in the United States.
Thank you so much for the content! ☦️
I’m currently the only orthodox Christian in my family.
Glory to God! All American Orthodox Christians can learn from these Appalachian pioneers ☦️
God bless you brothers in Christ! With love from Orthodox Bulgaria.
Well, that must be where the masterpiece "Country Roads" came from! The feeling of absolute perfection and grace of God, in both the video and the above mentioned song. Of course, John Denver couldn't have known anything about Appalachian Orthodoxy appearing decades after his death, but... God moves in mysterious ways!
As an Orthodox Christian in east TN I love to see this. God bless you all ☦️❤️
I'm an Orthodox in latin america, there are not many Orthodox here but only because people didn't even know the Orthodox Christians exists
Now we are growing ☦️✝️
Glory to God!
Fellow latin American Orthodox Christian here, glory to God!
Blessings to you from Serbia, dear Orthodox Christian fellow!
GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST
Δοξά συ ο θεός! Great you oh God! From a Greek Christian brother.
SA FITI BINECUVANTATO ,SI MULTA DRAGOSTE DIN ROMANIA 🇷🇴✝️❤️ORTODOXA
I love Romania. Was there last year. Sibiu, Cluj. Bucharesti, ☦️
Amazing... I am Serbian Orthodox from Salt Lak City, May Father Son and Holy Spirit be with you. Amen.
Preporučujem Rafailo Boljević.
@@sonjajolovic718 Neverovatan duhovnik je Rafailo . Takva predavanja kao njegova sto su, nikada cuo ni video
Slava Pravoslavlju!
@@dzoniveverig4253 🥂☦️☀️
Brother do you mind helping me convert, my family does not have the time to take me to church
Ihr seid unsere Brüder für immer und ewig, grüße aus Deutschland von einem Griechen Gott sei mit euch ❤👍
Please keep shining forth the light of Christ in our darkening times. Watching this has been a comfort hard to express. Brotherly regards from Germany.
Hopefully Orthodoxy in Germany will become as accessible at is becoming in the USA. I.e. liturgy in the German language, with enough parishes nearby.
They exist in some places, still small, but a little treasure already
The Orthodox Church is still strong in places like the US, even when it has become a corrupted arm of Putin's mafia state back home in Russia. Greek Church has a good reputation in the US and still in Europe.
Bless you all! From the heart of Orthodox Roumania on the Holly day of Apostle Andrew!🙏💜
I am a Ukrainian. I came to the US when I was very young and I did not know that there are Appalachian orthodox. Thas so cool ! Go bless you guys.
Beautiful God bless you ❤️✝️
I converted to the Orthodox Church last year ☦️
My family is roman catholic but i never fully liked the western style and following an italian heretic
I'm Glad the Orthodox Church is now also a part of the Western World ☦️
Χριστός Ανέστη
Aληθώς ανέστη!
God bless you :Catholic church was the same like orthodox church before 1054 ad
God bless you, my dear brother. Stay still in the magnificent Truth you've been given. Greets from Russia and Belarus.
Воистину воскрес!
Welcome home
Greeting from Poland brothers and sisters, God bless us... ❤☦️🙂
I'm Protestant but this is such a beautiful story of faithfulness to Christ and the community. Praise God, and may He continue to grow the faith in the mountains.
Wow. My father and his side are from ST petersburg. My mother and her kin born and raised randolph county WV. I was born in Ohio and baptized orthodox but moved back to West Virginia with my mom and was raised as any hillbilly. It was hard to not feel excluded by my faith and identity. This video was a huge comfort
I'm the son of rural Appalachians, whose families farmed and mined coal, who loves the timeless landscape of West Virginia. And I'm a Presbyterian brother in Christ who is increasingly attracted to the unshakeable truths and traditions of Orthodoxy in this darkening world. I've long thought those two aspects were as distinct and irreconcilable as imaginable, but your story has truly broadened my vision. God Bless.
It is a massive relief, entering a Divine Liturgy, that the clear focus is God and not your mortal baggage. It is highly accessible and I encourage you to go experience it. :+ )
God bless you!
This was very interesting. Thank you.
Orthodox way of life is so beautiful, hello from Greece
My Godson's abd I just got home 15 minutes ago from our first blessed visit to Holy Cross. Sadly we had to leave early due to the eminent passing of a loved one. I drove all night 10 hours on pretty much no sleep. But the joy we carried woth us from our visit was with us the entire way. With God's help we are home safe. The moment i laid down to finally sleep i opened my phone and this video was there waiting for me. A final note to our pilgrimage. Fathers, thabk you for welcoming us and blessing us during our time with you. Pray for us, Nicholas, Eustice, and John.
We're glad you had a blessed pilgrimage. Lord willing, we'll see you here again soon!
Tears of joy for your pilgrimage.
May you return soon.
+Memory eternal+ for your loved one.
У меня слезы от одной мысли: маленькое зернышко веры православной дочери священника тронуло душу ее мужа и далее этот росток веры превратился в большую ветвь растущую из древа Православной Церкви. Слава Богу за всё!
I wasn't able to comprehend Orthodoxy, spiritual warfare definitely blinds many of us who don't clam a denomination or are part of protestantism. The Holy Spirit helped me realize how the church, church history and traditions and the Bible are like a beautiful quilt woven together.
Amin! Praise be to God for your illumination
I was raised Catholic but recently I have been drawn to the Orthodox faith
Welcome Home!
Same. Was also raised Catholic and am not an Orthodox Catechumen.
We have waited very long for the American mountains and deserts to become a cradle for Christ , this time has come ❤️
As a an orthodox greek women from South Australia this video made me so proud! Very heart warming to see such strong faith !
I was born in Ohio and I wish I could move back and visit this church.
I'm stuck in a very materialistic and shrewd place in California.
My only chance to return is my dying grandmother that I'm asking prayer for.
God bless Your church!
What is your grandmother's name, so we can pray for her?
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV - Her name is Judy Meek, Sir!
Thank You and God bless! Christ is Risen!
☦️
She was never baptized and She only knows the old testament and I worry about all the family strife and separation.
She needs mercy.
I appreciate You very much!!!
sincerely: PJ
P.S:
Would You please pray for my health too?
I have sought Orthodoxy but they either don't speak English or other obstacles over here.
I hope I'm not bothering but do You also have a mailing address for donations via money order?
I would love to donate that way to write letters for prayer requests and I'll try to keep them brief.
I was born Pentecostal and only discovered Orthodoxy a few years ago
Thank U, God bless!
You can find our mailing address and contact info here: www.holycross.org/pages/contact.
You are both in our prayers!
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV - You were in my prayers this morning 😻
@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV my Orthodox brothers in Christ! If I could ask of you to pray for my mother in Serbia, Melanija Radovic (pronounce melaneeya radovich) . She has cancer but currently also having thrombosis which makes her can't move and almost immobilized in the bed. Please brothers, have her in your prayers. Glory to God. I will definitely come to visit you, hopefully this fall/ winter.
Blessings to you and all Orthodox Christians. ☦️
“When you build with hope for the future, you build things to last” the modern world needs to hear this.
All the best from the Lord. Greetings from Serbia.☦️☦️☦️
Not a Christian, but I grew up in Wayne. These are some of the nicest people you'd ever meet.
You're always welcome to the faith brother.
Jesus is the way, brother
I grew up close toto Wayne.
Appalachian orthodox brothers and sisters, it was great seeing you all practicing Christian😢 like our early church fathers and maintaining these true Christian traditions, culture and values without losing who we are and appreciating nature like our forefathers. We are the future of humanity so live by example like Christ showed us. Never forget orthodoxy is a journey not a destination No matter how hard it is, as long as you live be happy, be kind to others and be grateful to God. You are the protector of Christian faith and it’s people.
Greetings from Serbia! ☦ Помоз Бог, браћо у Христу!
I've been blessed to visit this place when passing through. On one of those visits, I was invited to come to the cemetery where they were commemorating the graves, shortly after Pascha (Easter). The other visit, I was allowed to spend some time alone in the chapel dedicated to St Panteleimon. The air is so thick with holiness in that place that you feel like time is suspended. I saw where they had broken ground for the new chapel, and it looks like they are making tremendous progress. May God bless the monks of West Virginia, and may they continue to pray for us...
Though the path before my wife and I is one full of unknowns - I can only hope one day we will be able to build a life, a home, and live near to Holy Cross Monastery. Somehow, someway be closer to the Real World.
You are always welcome to visit!
It is something my wife and I are intending on doing once our ability to travel is made easier! She has to do dialysis every 12 hours to keep her functioning due to end stage renal failure, we're patiently waiting on a kidney so we can be able to get our lives back in order and be able to make pilgrimages and just--even start a family.@@HolyCrossMonasteryWV
🙏
I belong to Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville NY. Am positive most know where I mean, or have heard of it, and am a baptized Christian/Orthodox.
Just know the Lord will be blessing you all at Holy Trinity Monastery, and you are prospering and will greatly, because you have the Lord with you. I do send prayers, and blessings to you.
Much love from Serbia to Appalachia.
i am nothing, i have no family or friends, religion or tradition. in nyc, humanity seems lost but seeing this restores a little bit of faith.
It’s wonderful to see the Holy Spirit bringing Orthodoxy to Appalachia. Truth, kindness and service to others equals love ❤ There are many forms of goodness and they’re all expressions of God’s love. We can all elevate ourself in God’s eyes by practicing love. Life is about service to others, brothers and sisters. Every new day is another opportunity to grow and be of service. Blessings to all!
Wow, didn't even know that Orthodox Christian communities exist in such places in the US. Way to go!
Me neither.I,m Catholic, and we are there, but most of the area is protestant.Bless you brothers may your work expand.
Visited the monastery on a pilgrimage from our church in DC back in 2011 Will never forget the friendly and humble monks, beautiful scenery and out of this world Divine Liturgy. Thank you so much!
I grew up in the Orthodox Church and served in the OCA. And while I am no longer a Christian, I fully support this beautiful monastery and the work of the monks. It just proves that you don’t have to go all the way to Mount Athos, as I did, to find the heart of Orthodoxy. Happy to make a small donation to the building of your new sanctuary.
I don’t know, but you may appreciate John Crowder’s TH-cam videos on the Orthodox Church. Here is part one
th-cam.com/video/U_OFJIPGVys/w-d-xo.htmlfeature=shared
This very beautiful may the Church of Christ continue to grow and flourish in every community.
I was raised catholic ( probably the only one in my extended family that has read and continues to study The Word) . The Orthodox church is the only church I would attend. Russian or Greek I can't say as I'm ignorant but for 3yrs now I've been drawn to Orthodoxy.
Orthodoxy can be found in every corner of the planet. True religion, true beliefs, strong.
Christ is risen
Hi from Greece
ΧΡΊΣΤΟΣ ΑΝΈΣΤΗ
I'm Christian orthodox.🇬🇷🇺🇸
Folks, all of noble souls who are contemplating a conversion to Orthodoxy, I say: God will bless you all!
I’m live in Ashland, KY. Not too far away hopefully I can visit one day, and learn more of the orthodox Christian faith.
You're welcome any time! Just give us a call and come out for the day. (304) 849-2072. You can join us for prayers and a meal, and get a tour of the monastery grounds.
That shocked me! I live in Ashland too! I know nothing of orthodox Christianity but as you know we have plenty of Baptist churches here. I just started going to unity.
Gonna have to make a journey there one day. My brother-in-law introduced me and my sister to Orthodox Christianity and found it to be the closest ways to the gospels. We still have questions about some things but are eager to learn and find out. God bless you guys 🙏🏼❤️🔥
May God continue to bless your efforts
I am a former catholic who converted to Orthodoxy almost 2 years ago. When I made the choice I felt like I had returned to the home I never knew I had. Thanks for this video, I will definitely make my own personal pilgrimage to the Monastery.
Glory to God! Please visit when you are able: www.holycross.org/pages/visitor-information.
Welcome home
Great drone work, especially the final shot. Thank you.
I am being drawn towards orthodox Christianity…..born into the Church of England 🏴
I feel I need to return to the church….I was I lived near such a beacon of hope and faith
God bless you all 🙏🏻🏴🇬🇧
Welcome home
Wonderful video. May God bless my Orthodox brothers and sisters in Appalachia, and bless the Holy Cross Monastery for the work that they do in fostering the Orthodox faith in America.
Im 35 years old and i live in Berkeley county West Virginia. For about 2 years now ive been strongly thinking about serving jesus christ in a monastery but didn't know where to look or where to go. Then this video popped up just when i needed it and close to Christmas time. I would love to come and be a part of this monastery.
დიდება უფალს! As a Georgian orthodox christian, I am very happy to learn about this Monastery.
Orthodox in US love Georgia!
Μπράβο αδέρφια! Την αγάπη μας από Ελλάδα.
Είδαμε το φως το αληθινό!
Christos Anesti!
I support my Appalachian orthodox as 🇪🇷🇪🇹☦️ bc you are the true American Christian’s we are truly united with 🫶🏾
True Christian belief. I can feel the love that these folks have and want to share with us
What a treat to hear David Schnaufer playing his mountain dulcimer composition in the last part of this video. It’s a perfect match. David called it ‘When Silence Was Golden’. David LOVED West Virginia.
Man this is awesome i love America
Made me tear up. We need hope in these times and a reminder to stand firm in the orthodox faith.
From the troparion for the Port Arthur Icon that's kept at the monastery: "O Orthodox Christians of North America, preserve the Orthodox Faith, for this Faith is your firm foundation." You can learn more about the icon here: www.holycross.org/pages/port-arthur-icon-of-the-triumph-of-the-theotokos. Every year, we celebrate the feast of the icon on May 26th, the anniversary of the brotherhood's arrival in West Virginia.
Господи, Помилуй, Помилуй, Помилуй нас всех! Аминь.
I'm an American middle eastern orthodox Christian living in Appalachia of Kentucky.
I visited this monastery 10 years ago. It is a beautiful place. I love how it has grown up even more.
I had very touching experiences with God’s grace in that place.
If I lived closer, I would go more often.
Fortunately, I do live close to another wonderful monastery that I visit regularly, and I continue to find wonderful spiritual guidance and direction there.
Thank God for these gemstones in the hollers!
I know that this holy site tucked away in of one of God’s prettiest creations will bring many people to the Orthodox Church. I pray the construction continues swiftly and safely, God bless.
In a SE area of Portland, Oregon, we lived next door to a BIG family. Very sweet folk. Turned out they were all Russian Orthodox Christians. I miss them.
Stumbled upon your channel . Im of Greek Orthodox very much the one and same as the Russian . Christianity was introduced into Kievan Rus by Greek missionaries from the Byzantine Empire in the 9th century. In 863-869 . My dad and mum Got married in the first joint Catholic and Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony , conducted by two priest from each christian faith , back in the 50s in North London in the UK . And i was baptised in the Troodos mountains of Cyprus at Trooditissa Monastery .
all the Best Roland .
Greetings from orthodox Serbian. God bless you all.