by Siphiwe Sithole
Intern, Anglican Communion Communications, London
The relationship of the Episcopal Church of Redeemer and the Greek Orthodox, in Seattle, USA, is taking wings, as the two congregations share the same space in a way that celebrates what they have in common and honour their differences.
This started two and a half years ago, when the Greek Orthodox leadership contacted Father John Fergueson for a possible space in their church, as they wanted to start a mission congregation in the area.
Father John Fergueson, the rector of the Redeemer said, "The Greek Orthodox leadership contacted me to see if we had space that they could use to meet. We were pleased to welcome them. At the time we resolved to offer them rent free use of the space as a sign of Christian friendship and hospitality."
About a year and a half ago, Orthodox Bishop Metropolitan Anthony, appointed Father Michel Johnson to serve as their priest. His arrival saw the relationship of the two congregations grow from strength to strength. Because of their deep commitment to their respective traditions, they agreed that their congregations would live in a way that celebrates their oneness in the body of Christ.
On Sunday morning, Redeemer celebrates Eucharist. Immediately following that, the Orthodox Mission sets up and begins their Liturgy, while the Episcopal congregation conducts Church school and Adult Education. At 10:30 am, the Episcopalians move to the Nave for their Choral Eucharist, while the Orthodox Mission adjourns to the Undercroft for their Coffee Hour and education period.
When the Eucharist is completed, the Episcopalians move to the Undercroft for Coffee Hour. Many of the members of the Orthodox Mission are still there, and lots of conversation and interaction takes place.
Commenting on their relationship, Father Fergueson said: "During the last year, members of our congregations have jointly created three eight by ten foot festal icons that that hang behind the Altar, during Christmas, Easter and part of the season of after Pentecost. The orthodox has joined our outreach to a local homeless shelter with great generosity. We have visited each other's liturgy and special services and have attended the visitation of their Bishop."
He added, "Our experience has been a true joy. There is a wonderful sense of God's love and presence when we are together. What is remarkable is the fact that we don't have intercommunion has never been an issue.