Pseudo-Clergy

As we have previously stated most are just making claims with nothing to back them. They "are not Orthodox" simply because their claimed lines come from sources that did not follow the Canons and no true (ethnic) Orthodox Church will never recognize them. 

The Nichols lines are not recognized simply because he left the Church (AND SYNOD) and went off on his own. He ordained, consecrated and co-consecrated but was without authority according to the Canons and this Church. This is how the independent movement works today. They are not canonical, were not (ever) canonically established but claim to be orthodox. To be canonical their Church must be canonically established by a Patriarch or Synod with authority under a Patriarch. What we have are people claiming to be orthodox running off (and in some cases incorporating or) starting their own Church with no canonical authority.  

The independent clergy do not in many cases follow the canons, their clergy many times are clean shaven, they ordain and consecrate men contrary to Orthodox teaching and tradition, and we are finding more and more that we have people accused or convicted of criminal acts and those living a lifestyle contrary to the canons as independent "bishops and priests". 

There are a number of pseudo clergy who set up websites making false claims as to who they are. 

Some claim that Holy Orders do not have to be transmitted during the Liturgy. They claim they can have hands laid on them anytime and be valid based on intent. 

The Orthodox Community does not recognize these individuals and just because someone shows an envelope or doctored documents or photos does not make them canonical.

If you want to verify who is canonical call the Greek or Russian Orthodox Church and ask then to put you in touch with someone who can verify that a Church in your area is in fact a canonical Church. If you cannot locate someone to help you feel free to contact this office and we have some directories and can put you in touch with one of the Churches that can help you.

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