The Enduring Legacy of St. Aftimios Ofiesh: True Orthodoxy's Beacon
By I. Butakov
St.
Aftimios Ofiesh is a name that resonates with controversy and reverence
in the annals of Orthodox Christianity. As the successor to St. Raphael
of Brooklyn, St. Aftimios was poised to continue a legacy of faith and
dedication within the Syrian-Russian Orthodox community in North
America and stands as one of the most intriguing figures in Orthodox
history. However, his tenure as an Orthodox patriarch was marked by
significant challenges and disputes that have led many to malign his
contributions to this day, largely due to misunderstandings and
self-righteous resistance from other Orthodox leaders. Despite these
controversies, an examination of his life and actions reveals a
steadfast commitment to authentic Orthodoxy and true Christian spirit.
Orthodox Spirit Amidst Adversity
Despite
facing significant opposition, St. Aftimios remained steadfast in his
commitment to authentic Orthodoxy and the true Christian spirit. His
dedication was evident in his pastoral care, theological contributions,
and efforts to establish a united Orthodox Church that transcended
ethnic and national divisions.
The
backlash against St. Aftimios was swift and severe, coming not only
from within his own jurisdiction but also from other Orthodox Churches
globally. Critics accused him of abandoning traditional Orthodoxy for
personal gain and innovation for its own sake—charges that were both
unfair and unfounded. Despite these accusations, those who closely
studied his works would find a man deeply committed to the core
principles of Orthodoxy; love, unity, and faithfulness to Christ’s
teachings above cultural or nationalistic divisions and above
jurisdictional snobbery.
Discrimination against a Married Archbishop
St.
Aftimios also faced discrimination due to his marital status as an
archbishop. However, it is important to understand that his marriage
was not inconsistent with Orthodox Christianity but rather a matter of
jurisdictional discipline. While doctrine represents core theological
beliefs that are unchangeable, discipline refers to rules and practices
that can vary across jurisdictions. In some Orthodox jurisdictions,
celibacy is required for bishops and some priests, while others permit
or even encourage marriage among clergy members.
St. Aftimios's decision to marry falls within the latter category,
making it a matter of jurisdictional discipline rather than a doctrinal
violation.
St. Aftimios and his wife, MariamDespite
facing prejudice and criticism additionally for his marriage, St.
Aftimios remained steadfast in his beliefs and practices. He firmly
believed that marriage did not diminish his commitment to the Orthodox
faith or compromise his spiritual authority as an archbishop. Indeed,
he felt it enhanced it, and he promoted and authorized a married
episcopate. This courageous stance challenged artificial norms
and forced people to question their assumptions about married clergy.
St.
Aftimios's refusal to conform to discriminatory expectations
demonstrates his commitment to authenticity and staying true to both
his personal convictions and Orthodox tradition. His actions remind us
that the true essence of the Orthodox faith lies in love, compassion,
and understanding in the example of Christ.
The Legacy Lives On
The
impact of St. Aftimios’s work is still felt today across several
jurisdictions that hold apostolic succession from him. These
communities continue to embody his vision of a unified Orthodoxy—free
from ethnic barriers and open to all believers. Among the most
prominent of these is the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, embracing its
Orthodox and Catholic heritage; preserving its own ethnic heritage
while breaking down barriers and being open to everyone in the spirit
of Christ. A Misunderstood Shepherd
While
many contemporary Orthodox leaders still view St. Aftimios with
skepticism, perhaps out of jealousy or jurisdictional power games to
which even the Church has never been immune, it is essential to
recognize his pioneering role in shaping traditional Orthodoxy in the
modern era. His actions were not those of division but rather attempts
at reshaping the church to be more inclusive in the example of Christ.
And, it is crucial to recognize the positive impact he has had on
modern Orthodoxy—especially in North America.
Several
jurisdictions descended from St. Aftimios bear testament to his lasting
influence on the landscape of global Orthodoxy. These communities
embody his vision for an authentically inclusive Church, transcending
barriers, and remaining faithful to traditional doctrines. The ancient
apostolic succession emanating from St. Aftimios is an unbroken chain
that not only validates his own ecclesiastical authority, but also
underscores the authenticity of his successors' faith and practices.
Reevaluating A Legacy
In
spite of being maligned by some contemporaries and successors alike,
St. Aftimios's authentic approach to Orthodoxy continues to inspire
many believers across different jurisdictions worldwide. His life
reminds us that genuine spiritual leadership often requires making
difficult decisions that might not be fully understood or appreciated
by one’s peers or even by generations immediately following them.
In
reevaluating the legacy of St. Aftimios, it becomes clear that his
contributions cannot be dismissed merely as controversial decisions
made during tumultuous times. He was much more than a controversial
figure; he was a divinely-inspired visionary who sought to bring
genuine unity and spiritual depth to the Orthodox Church. His work
should be seen as courageous steps towards realizing a vision of an
orthodox Church truly universal (and indeed Catholic in its most true
sense) in its embrace yet steadfast in its adherence to ancient
truths—a mission undoubtedly relevant today as it was during his
lifetime. Despite opposition, his legacy, the very legacy
preserved by the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, continues to inspire
those who value true orthodoxy and Christian fellowship.
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