On Convert Pitfalls: Obstacles in the Orthodox Mission Today - Fr. Seraphim Rose

Taken as an obedience, Fr. Seraphim Rose was asked to write on “Convert Pitfalls” and how to avoid them. Being a convert himself, and having overcome so many spiritual obstacles, he was well-suited for this task. While his work on this specific text did not progress to completion, these notes of his give us simple and direct guidance to keep us on the narrow path.Fr. Seraphim’s notes, starting at 01:25 :A) Trusting oneself, samost [in Russian].Remedy: sober distrust of oneself, taking counsel of others wiser, guidance from Holy Fathers.B) Academic approach — overly intellectual, uninvolved, uncommitted, abstract, unreal. Bound up with A. also.C) Not keeping the secret of the Kingdom, gossip, publicity. Overemphasis on outward side of mission, success. Danger of creating empty shell, form of mission without substance.Remedy: concentrate on spiritual life, keep out of limelight, stay uninvolved from passionate disputes.D) “Spiritual Experiences.”Symptoms: feverish excitement, always something “tremendous” happening — the blood is boiling. Inflated vocabulary, indicates puffed up instead of humble. Sources in Protestantism, and in one’s own opinions “picked up” in the air.Remedy: sober distrust of oneself, constant grounding in Holy Fathers and Lives of Saints, counsel.E) Discouragement, giving up — “Quenched” syndrome.Cause: overemphasis on outward side, public opinion, etc.Remedy: emphasis on inward, spiritual struggle, lack of concern for outward success, mindfulness of Whom we are followers of (Christ crucified but triumphant).F) A double axe: broadness on one hand, narrowness on the other.This text comes from Father Seraphim Rose: His Life and Works by Hieromonk Damascene, published by St. Herman Press in Platina, California (pgs 847-848).This channel is dedicated to sharing the writings and lives of the Saints of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Glory to Jesus Christ!