In an article recently published by the Orthodox Church in America (OCA), the church makes known its consideration of withdrawal from the liberal National Council of Churches (NCC). The autocephalous church is coming to the realization that the representation of protestants in the NCC is a minority representation that reflect beliefs often antithetical to the Orthodox convictions. The absence of the Roman Catholic Church is reason for their departure as well. It seems that the NCC is just too liberal for the OCA.

The OCA is quick to assert that “this movement towards withdrawal should not be motivated by any ‘fundamentalism’ or ‘anti-ecumenism.’” The OCA strongly desires to continue ecumenical relations/dialogue but only with those who line up with their conservative ideals. This would mainly include Roman Catholics and conservative evangelicals.

I’m glad that the OCA is taking a stand. Liberalism in the disguise of ecumenism will not achieve its goal of unifying the one true church. The NCC has become a sectarian group with a narrow agenda. The OCA is leading by example.

To read the OCA’s critiques of the NCC and Orthodox involvement in it, go to Orthodoxy Today’s NCC Resource Page.