Re: Learning Orthodoxy

I am an Afro-American female, who serves as an Teaching Elder in a Pentecostal Church. About a year ago following listening to a testimony from an Afro-American who left the pastorate to become a Roman Catholic, I was struck with shock & surprise about such a move. After listening to this testimony about 3-4 times, I started to ask myself some questions. What would make a gentleman, who was the pastor of a growing congregation and a pastor who loved serving God begin such a journey. So with that I started searching the internet looking for answers, doctrinally-traditions-writings of apostolic fathers. I have been doing this off and on for that period of time. In doing this research, recently I came across the expression "Desert Fathers", and that began my investigation of Orthodoxy.
Doctrinally I find myself in agreement and have developed a love of the writings of St. John Chrysostom. I do have some issues with women and their ability to use the gifts and calling that God has given. It is good to hear that there is serious consideration being given to the reinstitution of the Office of Deaconess within the Antiochian Orthodox tradition. Biblically there were female deacons who operated in the early church, so it is probably overdue for women to function in this office. I also see the thrust toward evangelism and missions to reach those who are outside the covenant family. I have read where Metropolitan Phillip recognizes that Orthodoxy is meant to reach all people groups, for the Gospel is inclusive, and is not exclusive. In order for Orthodoxy here in the USA to reach people, it will definitely have to move from being ethnocentric. To be honest, I myself am wondering why the Lord has laid this on my heart, and where would I as an Afro-American female, called to a teaching ministry, fit into the Antiochian Orthodox Church here in the USA?