The Fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Let’s rewind to the time of Genesis, where the fall of humankind is written. The fruit given to Eve was indeed tempting to eat; yet she was told specifically not to. Deceived by its luscious appearance, she ate the apple, gave it to Adam, and we all know what happened next. Now let’s reflect on a time in our lives, when we were tempted to do what we knew we shouldn’t. Did we learn lessons the hard way? Were there others involved that we persuaded? We may find the fruit appealing, it may contain knowledge for us to apply; however, the bite we take into the fruit could very well be serving us (and others) poison. Sure, to gain knowledge, power, might be exciting. Yet we must take a pause and reflect on the overall consequences of our actions beforehand. Are our activities truly growing the Fruit of the Spirit, or is it simply the tangible fruit of a temporary life that easily rots away? This is where discernment intersects with wisdom.

I’ll put this into perspective: If others are gathered to help others outside of the community, yet blatantly choose to ignore the real issues plaguing the community itself, then would this mean that the fruit they appear to cultivate is a mirage, a fantasy of what we wish to see and not reality? At what point are we supposed to stop and reassess our actions, despite ourselves thinking what we are doing is only good?

As humans, we are given free will. We choose how we act, how we speak. I am aware I have spent nearly the last year in absolute boldness online; however, it was for a very sincere reason. How many people have chosen not to be the Good Samaritan and walk by, assuming it’s not their problem, or that they’re still “doing good” out there? How many leaders in the Orthodox Church will delete my emails without the complete sense of humility needed to seek the answers to questions and troubles I and others have brought forth?

Even during Divine Liturgy, in the communion prayer, we read “Nor will I give you a kiss as did Judas”. Every time we prepare ourselves for communion, we must pause and ponder on where we can do better in not betraying God, by loving our brothers and sisters in Christ all around us. That we will not give a sweet gesture to others, then continue feeding them poison indirectly by accepting salaries, benefits, even secular services ahead of doing what is right and pleasing to God. We must be mindful of what we are filling and emptying ourselves with.  I am speaking about those who have jobs within the Church that require specific responsibilities that are not being fulfilled due to assumptions, pride, fear, etc.

Character is built when we have compassion and humble ourselves in front of each other, seeking to find the solutions together. I humbly thank every person who has witnessed the bulk of my “online outbursts” without unfollowing me due to assumptions of my character. None of this has been easy, yet with your support, I have found the strength to continue focusing on bringing peace and joy to ALL. While I may have been spinning my own wheels for a season or two, today I have firmly decided to keep moving forward in the intricate details of OCCA development.

With all of this said and done, I am ready to take the next step in inviting those who would like to seek a safe space for weekly (or biweekly) meetings, where we will gather to witness each other’s gifts and grace for one another. Please stay tuned for more information provided within the following month.

With Love in Christ,

Katherine