Is the Greek Orthodox Church growing in America?

(RNS) America’s Eastern Orthodox parishes have grown 16 percent in the past decade, in part because of a settled immigrant community, according to new research.

What percent of Americans are Greek Orthodox?

The Orthodox Church in America, with roots in Moscow and about 85,000 adherents, reports a 50 percent figure. In Greek Orthodox Christianity, by far the largest branch in the United States with almost 480,000 members, it’s about 25 percent.

Why is the Greek Orthodox Church against yoga?

‘Yoga is absolutely incompatible with our Orthodox faith and has no place in the life of Christians,’ the Holy Synod, the governing body of the Church of Greece said in a statement. ‘It is a fundamental chapter in Hindu religion… it is not a ‘kind of physical exercise’,’ it said.

How rich is the Greek Orthodox Church?

The Greek Orthodox Church is currently coming under pressure to take less and give more as the country faces a dire financial crisis that could have a global impact. The Church reportedly owns property worth up to 700 billion euros.

Can Greek Orthodox priests marry?

Under Orthodox rules, a celibate priest cannot marry after ordination, and a non-celibate priest cannot remarry and remain a priest, even if his wife dies, he said. Widowers who remain celibate can become bishops, but that’s happened just once.

Is Turkey an Orthodox country?

Turkey is a secular country with a majority Muslim population. The Turkish Constitution officially recognises Sunni Islam, Christianity (some Catholic and Orthodox sects) and Judaism.

Why do people say “but you don’t look Turkish” in Germany?

It is exactly this discrepancy that gives birth to the comment, “But you don’t look Turkish!” Because newly arriving immigrants do not fit the existing perception of Turkishness in Germany, most end up having to explain how they, too, are Turkish/from Turkey.

Do Turks laugh when they hear foreigners speak Turkish?

A foreigner speaking Turkish is a rare and fascinating thing for most Turks, so any laughter is probably a combination of affection and disbelief. Oh my, this definitely deserves an “afiyet olsun” before biting into.

How do you say may you have an appetite in Turkish?

3. Afiyet olsun – Literally translates to “may you have an appetite,” but there is no real equivalent in English (Turks often use the French “bon appétit” when speaking in English). This phrase can be used before, during and after someone has had a meal. You should most definitely say it if you yourself have prepared food for others.