The Orthodox Church, in her role as a guardian of spiritual integrity and communal stability, upholds the principle that the primary duty of her members is to foster and build up the local Church community in their respective areas. As such, the Church does not engage in, nor sponsor, immigration for employment purposes.
Purpose of the Policy:
- To Strengthen Local Communities: The Church encourages all her faithful to remain within their local parishes and dioceses to help nurture the growth of the Church in those regions. Rather than seeking opportunities abroad, the faithful are called to participate actively in the spiritual, social, and material well-being of their local communities.
- To Uphold the Spiritual Mission: The mission of the Church is primarily spiritual. While employment and economic well-being are important, they should never overshadow the duty to serve Christ and His Church in the local context. Seeking employment opportunities in other regions or countries at the expense of one’s local community is discouraged unless absolutely necessary.
- To Avoid Dilution of Local Parishes: The Church recognises that mass migration for employment can lead to the weakening or even dissolution of local parishes, which are the cornerstone of Orthodox life. It is essential for members to strengthen their local parish, contributing to its vitality, rather than depleting it by moving abroad.
Guidelines for Faithful:
- Seek Local Opportunities: Members of the Church are strongly encouraged to explore employment and other opportunities within their local area, aiming to contribute to the growth and development of their community.
- Consultation with Clergy: In cases where immigration for employment may seem necessary, the faithful are encouraged to seek the counsel of their parish priest or diocesan bishop to ensure that any decisions made are in alignment with their spiritual responsibilities and the health of the local Church.
- Community Involvement: The faithful are called to take active roles in their local parishes, whether through participation in liturgical life, charitable work, or other forms of service, prioritising the needs of the Church over economic gain.
- Exceptions: While the Church does not sponsor immigration for employment, she understands that there may be exceptional circumstances. In such cases, the faithful should always prioritise their spiritual life and maintain a strong connection with their local Orthodox community, whether through frequent visits, remote support, or other means.
In conclusion, the Orthodox Church affirms the importance of local community and encourages her faithful to focus on building up their parishes and regions, ensuring that the spiritual mission of the Church is not compromised by the pursuit of economic opportunities abroad.
Approved by:
Patriarch Seraphim Michael
Bishop Andrew
September 18, 2024
