Tyfys Same here. Did 6 years got out the second my time was up. I joined as an atheist and after my return to Christ I wanted out immediately. I was in for 6 years never stationed in America. Goes to show how in danger America is
@@SeraphimWebster , to quote St John the Baptist and Forerunner of Christ, "Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.” Meaning, serve well and be righteous, like St George and many other Roman soldiers who followed Christ while serving Rome. Also, as Christ taught us, "Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God." As Christians we are still a part of the world, but we should never compromise our beliefs and values and remain apart from the world. I served for 10 years and eventually resigned my officer's commission once I realized the hopelessness of my circumstance, but my wife continues to serve with grace and honor. Take care of your people, take care of your responsibility, and take care of your soul. When in doubt, repent, confess, commune, and have courage. God Bless.
America is not a nation by the strict meaning of the original greek/latin word "natio". It would suggest common genetical heritage. America is people "populus" not a nation..
America is a great nation. Take pride in the greatness it’s been. We just need to repent and pray. It’s FAR from perfect, but I’d rather live here than under communism and 3rd world. But that’s just me.
@@terrorists-are-among-us You are the terrorist in our-Midst.. sowing dissent and conflict between good people. We should Christianize the lands.. and have strong border Policy, If they don't like the nation they will be kicked out.. Simple-as that. As for a war for a Christian nation Vs. A muslim nation, that is another conversation entirely..
Yeah me as an American as well why would I shed My blood if I know veterans and our own people are out on the streets and the government does nothing about it and the government favoring other people than us
🙏 What a difficult time for everyone. Americans lost control of our government decades ago. It's a haunting thing, now. A spectre of lies and death. I need to get baptised because I see the future as anyone with eyes can. Thank you for approaching this topic. *it looks like RUclips is messing with views and likes on this.
I was planning on leaving America. But if the Orthodox church can actually be a sanctuary from clown world, maybe I'll stay. I'm still not sure about this church, but I do know that I was thoroughly disgusted by the Protestant churches and their willingness to compromise and invite clown world in. I don't mean to denigrate Protestantism - I think they have a lot correct, or they used to, but they aren't standing firm any more, so they're kinda not an option. I didn't even know the Orthodox church existed until recently... I don't think they have everything correct, but the bottom line is, if this is where the battle lines are drawn, I'm on the side that's against the beast. That's really all that matters to me. I refuse to serve evil - the good may be hard to see sometimes, but evil is clear as day, and it's disgusting, and I refuse it. I don't see many people or groups clearly standing against it. I sure hope Orthodoxy is what it appears to be.
I discussed this a friend yesterday at church. I'd laugh. I'm exempt from the draft on account of a nigh lifelong disability. But if I were for some reason called up to a draft, I'd flee to a monastery because at that point it's painfully obvious, we're boned.
Romans 12:17-21 Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all. If possible, on your part, live at peace with all. Beloved, do not look for revenge but leave room for the wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” Rather, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head.” Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good.
I believe that even if you are drafted it doesn't mean that you'll be in a combat role as Fr. Peter said and even if you are, the chances that you will kill someone are probably very slim (WW3? We'll probably be martyred drafted or not before making contact with the enemy). The USA has 4 logistics personel/1 combat soldiers. God will provide you alternatives even in the toughest situation, He might place you somewhere where you will be able to save a woman from being raped, a prisoner from starving, a brother in arms from losing his mind, etc. Discretion is the key to acting in a God-loving way no matter where you are.
Joined the US military when i was still under the protestant worldview. Now that I am in the process of entering the Church, the only thing “keeping me in” is being a supervisor and mentor being able to guide young men and women in the right direction with their lives, focusing on the spiritual. That and the potential locations I can end up being at. There’s a plethora of good traits and habits and skillsets that the military has taught me. The negative is exactly what Fr. Heers focuses on: I may one day be asked/forced to go take part in a conflict that cannot be morally justified (War is a Racket is in my opinion mandatory to read). For the Orthodox young men in America: consult your priest. America may be holy one day, but it is not today. Our responsibility is to stay true to the narrow path and bring up those alongside us, those around us. To spread the word of the Gospel and the One True Faith
@@GravelpitdiverNot really. They persecuted the natives in Alaska who had embraced Orthodoxy. Besides, we'd worship as Orthodox whether free to do so or not.
Hello! I am a romanian living in Romania. War is only 7km away from me since the border with ukraine is very close to where I am and we see from here explosions and military equipement. My question is...what should I do if war would come here? I have no problem dying in a war, my only problem is that if Russia would be the enemy I would fight another orthotox people. That is my only conflict. I do not fear the war otherwise. Life and death are in the hand of God. May His will be upon me. I trust Him 100%. But should I fight agains other orthodox people?
It sounds to me like Fr. Peter answered this question when he said "defending the country is blessed". He was speaking about America, but it applies equally to Romania and any other country. Defending your people against foreign aggression is blessed by God. "No greater love has a man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." Any Orthodox soldiers and commanders that would take part in a war of aggression against another country, especially when that country is Orthodox, are not being Orthodox in their action (aka orthopraxis), because such aggression does not glorify God and is unlawful. God forbid that it should come to such a thing (I say this as a Romanian-American who loves both his fatherland and his adoptive homeland), and may God have mercy on us and bring us all to repentance and give us the gift of His peace and reconciliation. Doamne miluiește! Lord have mercy 🙏
Am avut un unchi care a murit in ofensiva germanilor impotriva rușilor, de partea nemților. Cind a plecat la război mama lui tragea de el și jelea! Avea 21 ani si era cel mic. A murit degeaba pentru politicieni corupti. Rusia e vecină cu România. De ce România vrea să intre într-un război civil? Rusia no o să atace România decât dacă o atac-o NATO direct. Rusia nu are problemă cu România. A acceptat să intre in NATO. Cine conduce România, NATO sau politicieni corupți? Pentru cine vrei să mori? Nu merită nici unul si sunt mulți care vor ca tu sa mori pentru interesul lor!
@@micheypatsa It could hardly be called a brag. Dodging the draft in the 21st century (with the conflicts unfolding as they are) won't be a vacation or a cowardly endeavor like it was in Vietnam. It will likely mean severe persecution, regardless of your reasons. Just know what the consequences may be and face them courageously and with grace.
I hope I live to see myself married and fathering many children. These things make me anxious. Please do pray for me Fr. Heers 🙏 🙏 🙏 I’m 28 and I’ve struggled to find someone and I don’t even have the money to move out yet. I’m trying to do so by next year or winter of 2025, God willing.
You know I wanted to join the Marines ever since I can remember. Though recently being drawn to Orthodoxy Ive changed my mind. My focus from the Marines shifted to wanting to just grow in Christ and in Orthodoxy. I'll support our Military there is no doubt the men and women who do serve deserve the world. Though you can't with the leadership; and how these extremists push for globalism. I don't want to hurt someone but I would if it came down to defending my Community, my Country, and my Faith. My heart would ache but if it was something I had to do I would no doubt.
Former 11B, 2-28 black lions, served in Pakita Afghanistan from 2011-2012 Do NOT join, you are not fighting for any honorable principle such as freedom or honor or any other vague concept, you are fodder for Black Rock Vanguard and Boeing. A pawn for the pocketbook of politicians. Stay at home to defend your family, our enemies are within our nation in the forms of politicians and elites, not other nations If the draft happens, find where your politicians live and permanently solve the problem
Very simple... our country lives by the sward and will die by it. You partake in the sins of a nation, you will suffer as it does. Just as Christians have done for thousands of years... you fight for what is good and you flee from evil. What our country is doing is the epidemy of evil. We've become a hissing around the world. Your relationship with Christ is the only thing that matters.
Saint Matthew 5:44-48 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Please do a video specifically about the prophesies regarding WWIII, that you mentioned. I hear a lot of references to Orthodox prophesies, but have seen nothing concrete.
I asked my cousin who is an Orthodox priest about this once. His answer was follow the commandments and don’t concern yourself with the rest. We are warned that there will be many false prophets and that most people lack the knowledge and understanding to discern between them.If you fall into a trap of believing the false prophesies then you inevitably will be lead down the wrong path of trying to fulfill them.
@@fullm3taljacketI know that. I was not in any way trying to deny or question that God has given us warnings through our saints. But as Christians we are told and we KNOW what’s coming. But God and only God will decide when.
The mental torment from killing others is haunting ptsd also calling sin so dont act on false labelling deliberately done so for unknown reasons evil doesn't make sense however im not naturally good i was blind griwing up and took on board media values so if im loving god and neighbour as myself i have no time too hate them
I would not submit to governance in the time of martial law or draft efforts. My actions would be more regulated towards protecting the church during this time from the government itself. The young men being removed would destroy the church in America.
As an Orthodox Christian, I still don't fully understand this, could someone answer my questions?: 1. Saint Paul tells us to submit to authorities in Romans 13:1. Going off of this, wouldn't disobeying draft laws would be unChristian and also have serious legal implications. You might say "St Paul also tells us to not uphold state law when it violates God's law" but I don't see how serving in the military, even in one that would go to war with Orthodox-majority countries, is a violation of God's law. There are Orthodox Christians in every nation and indeed the Church supersedes ethnicity, national origin and region, to say otherwise is a condemned heresy called Phyletism. So why should I disobey draft orders solely because I don't like the country issuing them? 2. Is it possible for an American to be an Orthodox Christian? I don't mean just physically, either. The United States of America has a history of defying Monarchical institutions considered tyrannical, especially earlier in its history. American history and culture also revolves around commemoration of figures which may have had connections to Orthodox Christianity but were not Orthodox. The Puritan Pilgrims, the Colonists, George Washington and the Continental Army, etc. held many views that were not Orthodox. I'm not referring to _supporting_ beliefs held by these people, but recognizing that they had an important place in American history. 3. Can you be Orthodox without being exotified? This is somewhat a continuation of my 2nd question but it basically revolves around having a culture and environment that isn't Greek or Russian and so on. I know it's possible to live in America and be an Orthodox Christian, but you are surrounded by Greek and Russian terminology, customs and traditions which may not accurately reflect the early Church's traditions (an example of this would be some Serbian Orthodox churches using willows instead of palms on Palm Sunday, even when palms are now readily available) I want to be an Orthodox Christian without feeling like my parish is an exotic exhibition. And keep in mind I go to an Antiochian Greek Orthodox parish that uses 100% English liturgy and has an American convert priest.
"We are not a philosophy, but a divine revelation. That is why you just can't exterminate us. The more you kill the more we are. The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.... And you frustrate your purpose because those who see us die wonder why we do... and when they find out, they join us" - Tertullia 160AD - 240AD Oh what courage, what great love, to lie down one's life in peace in following the Lamb of God as a sheep to the slaughter. Lying down one's life, even for the one's that terrorize you with unspeakable brutality, is the epitome of courage and obedience to Christ. Contrarily, the more the professor of Christ engages himself in worldly wars to save himself, his possessions, his freedom, both soldier, women, and children die not knowing Christ at their hand, and the ears of many ate cut off from receiving the Gospel. "You are the salt of the earth. If the salt looses its savor it good for nothing but to be trampled under foot of men." The West is getting trampled because the salt has lost its savor. What are you going to do? Continue doing the same things that got you trampled while blaming the sinners that know not Christ, or repent?
I don't know about the US I am Canadian and if there is a draft I can't wait I'm in all the way in the event of war. It will be an infantry soldier or the navy I would jump at the chance would go for a deck gunner 50 caliber. So if ww3 happens I'm in.
I joined the navy when John f. Kennedy was president we were motivated when he said ask not what your country can do for you, as what YOU can do for your country don't be afraid the draft knows we're to place you without cell phones
I live in Canada and i was thinking about this the other day. There's not much left to fight for. Am I willing to put my life on the line for abortion, sexual deviancy, inflation, usury and nihilism in my own courty, just so we can spread it to others
I would love to guard an Orthodox church/monastery for Catechumenship. I could also clean everything but icons. I already do both for a secular business
I'm thirty and I'm going to refuse to comply with a draft. Even if I have to go to prison or leave the country, I'm not following any orders. I will never fight or raise a family in a country with such disgusting values and culture. My grandfather fought in WW2 and ended up getting screwed over. With the way society is now and what it represents, I will not lift a finger.
Bring the Draft. I know I'd do great as a sniper. I'm 5'5 and a half so I'd be easy to conceal, I have upper body strength and years of Firearms knowledge. Just DON'T MAKE ME BUNK WITH THE FEMINISTS! 😂
@@personnesenki4521 Sure will. Everyday I'm convinced more and more to Join the Military especially since their ain't shit for me in this failed society
Why would I pick up arms in service for my country when I can be so much better utilized for the betterment of my country doing things I am trained and skilled at like working heavy machinery, urban development, community service, donate blood and food bank drive in a time of war and conflict, I am obstensibly against violence and killing, I see it as I have no authority to attempt to take away a precious child from a mother and father as well as putting myself into a same situation to happen to me! I was honed in and educated for building bridges and meaningful infrastructures, not for destroying it for the sake of "national defense" or interests! You don't send a construction worker to be a club bouncer, that will yield poor results.
If the country you live in is haveing a draft look at the reason your country is going to war and ask yourself if its a cause you can get behind. Thats a choice that you should make on your own dont let the bias opinions of politicians or religious leaders be discourage your decision no matter what you choose
Do not serve evil: “Touch no unclean thing.” 2 Cor “The nations are as a drop in the bucket. They are nothing and less than nothing. They are accounted as a vanity.” Isaiah 40 There is nothing extreme about refusing to serve evil, even if that means refusing the draft. Plenty of holy martyrs died or were tortured for refusing the states unholy dictates. Were they extremists who refused the royal path? No.
"You can't serve two masters or you will love one and hate the other." I get sick to my stomach seeing those who name Christ as Lord waving flags and killing others for land, resources, worldly possessions, security, and freedom. If you didn't want to be a peaceful lamb to the slaughter, you should not have agreed to follow the Shepherd who leads to the cross of crucifixion and the house of slaughter. Taking up the sword, like Peter, cuts off ears from hearing the Gospel.
@@Cobruh_CommanderRomans 12:17-21 Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all. If possible, on your part, live at peace with all. Beloved, do not look for revenge but leave room for the wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” Rather, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head.” Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good. Saint Matthew 5:44-48 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect. 1 Samuel 2:6-9 “The LORD puts to death and gives life, casts down to Sheol and brings up again. The LORD makes poor and makes rich, humbles, and also exalts. He raises the needy from the dust; from the ash heap lifts up the poor, To seat them with nobles and make a glorious throne their heritage. “For the pillars of the earth are the LORD’s, and he has set the world upon them. He guards the footsteps of his faithful ones, but the wicked shall perish in the darkness; for not by strength does one prevail. Proverbs 16:32 The patient are better than warriors, and those who rule their temper, better than the conqueror of a city. Saint Matthew 10:28 And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.
@@Cobruh_Commander Like killing hundreds of thousands to over a million civilians, half of them children, in Iraq and Afghanistan? The fact is, the mortal enemy of Christ's disciples has been arousing them to fight in wars for the same false reasons for centuries, often pitting brother against brother. Name just one just war American supposed Christians have ever engaged in and I can easily refute it? I can also show that Christians engaging in the lm has done nothing but been a primary cause in the increase of wickedness in the world.
@@fullm3taljacket Jesus could have destroyed the Romans & The Jews. What did he do? Saint John 15:13 Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Saint Luke 6:35-38 But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as [also] your Father is merciful. “Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven. Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.” Saint Matthew 16:24 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me."
@@OrthodoxEthos Beautiful reply. "The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against His Anointed...."! How can one fight for an evil Government and take the life-blood of other human beings at the say so of the wicked? The Ancient Romans used to say, "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori" (Latin translate: "It is sweet and proper to die for one's country"!). No...the only honourable death is that of a Martyr who spills his life-blood in the Name of the Lord Jesus... IMO
Hmmm. Well, if against Orthodox Christian nations and peoples, declare as a Conscientious Objector. If legitimately defending American soil from an invading host, even if an Orthodox Christian army, do what is lawful & honorable to help your homeland and press for ceasefire & peace ASAP.
That’s true, but what if the Orthodox government doesn’t respect individual rights and freedom? Whoever messes with my rights and freedom is asking to be messed up, Orthodox or not.
Certainly is an ethical dilemmas which is proper to be addressed. I would nit doubt the benefits of a yourh joining. The military 🪖🎖️ to learn about syrength and honor and discipline and whathave you. But fir a youth to waste their life in a senseless war, why?. To adbance the political war machine for the sake of power and profit. This is just my opinion. I have never been to the military nor faught in a battle. I believe one thing, that war is h.e.l.l. (forgive me) any way you look at it. But if is truly for freedom and country, then it is noble
I would have to refuse even if they put me in jail or kill me, im still young but soon will be in a monastery to remain pure and celibate for God☦️I pray to God for the nuke to not hit me as it says in prophecy..Peace be upon all🙏❤️☦️
I'll fight to _defend_ this country when it starts respecting and defending my basic rights as a man as much as it does for women, and when it provides special privileges in exchange for me being drafted. Until then... a gender-reversed white feather campaign?
As someone who did two tours in Iraq in my younger, pre-Orthodox years... don't fight these people's wars
As a Marine who’s still in, what should I do?
Coward 🤡
Tyfys
Same here. Did 6 years got out the second my time was up. I joined as an atheist and after my return to Christ I wanted out immediately.
I was in for 6 years never stationed in America. Goes to show how in danger America is
@@SeraphimWebster , to quote St John the Baptist and Forerunner of Christ, "Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.” Meaning, serve well and be righteous, like St George and many other Roman soldiers who followed Christ while serving Rome.
Also, as Christ taught us, "Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God."
As Christians we are still a part of the world, but we should never compromise our beliefs and values and remain apart from the world.
I served for 10 years and eventually resigned my officer's commission once I realized the hopelessness of my circumstance, but my wife continues to serve with grace and honor.
Take care of your people, take care of your responsibility, and take care of your soul.
When in doubt, repent, confess, commune, and have courage.
God Bless.
@@DjigitDaniel this is a great response. I had re-enlisted prior to my inquiry into Orthodoxy, so I have about 3 more years to go.
America is not a just nation worth dying for.
Mystery Babylon herself.
@@LNR65💯
America is not a nation by the strict meaning of the original greek/latin word "natio". It would suggest common genetical heritage. America is people "populus" not a nation..
You’re right and that’s hard to swallow.
America is a great nation. Take pride in the greatness it’s been. We just need to repent and pray. It’s FAR from perfect, but I’d rather live here than under communism and 3rd world. But that’s just me.
No more foreign wars.
No more terrorists in our midst 🤡
@@terrorists-are-among-us You are the terrorist in our-Midst.. sowing dissent and conflict between good people. We should Christianize the lands.. and have strong border Policy, If they don't like the nation they will be kicked out.. Simple-as that. As for a war for a Christian nation Vs. A muslim nation, that is another conversation entirely..
No more Jewish wars
@@lvoss4life if you weren't envious of the jews you wouldn't think they ought to allow their people to be slaughtered 🤮
@@lvoss4lifeThe lady of Fatima predicted the cancer that would rise out of Russia in the 30s... Russia was Communisms first victim 😢
i love the American people but i refuse to fight for western imperialism.
As an American I agree
Yeah me as an American as well why would I shed My blood if I know veterans and our own people are out on the streets and the government does nothing about it and the government favoring other people than us
🙏 What a difficult time for everyone. Americans lost control of our government decades ago. It's a haunting thing, now. A spectre of lies and death. I need to get baptised because I see the future as anyone with eyes can. Thank you for approaching this topic.
*it looks like RUclips is messing with views and likes on this.
I was planning on leaving America. But if the Orthodox church can actually be a sanctuary from clown world, maybe I'll stay. I'm still not sure about this church, but I do know that I was thoroughly disgusted by the Protestant churches and their willingness to compromise and invite clown world in. I don't mean to denigrate Protestantism - I think they have a lot correct, or they used to, but they aren't standing firm any more, so they're kinda not an option. I didn't even know the Orthodox church existed until recently... I don't think they have everything correct, but the bottom line is, if this is where the battle lines are drawn, I'm on the side that's against the beast. That's really all that matters to me. I refuse to serve evil - the good may be hard to see sometimes, but evil is clear as day, and it's disgusting, and I refuse it. I don't see many people or groups clearly standing against it. I sure hope Orthodoxy is what it appears to be.
I would dodge the draft faster than the Flash.
Gauss is way faster and deadler then flash
Drafted will catches up with you.
@@redcecrossans2189 what lol
@@bigbosssauce7 read it properly Bud is just a simple sentence💀
@redcecrossans2189 "Drafted will catches up with you"? It doesn't even make sense.
I discussed this a friend yesterday at church. I'd laugh. I'm exempt from the draft on account of a nigh lifelong disability. But if I were for some reason called up to a draft, I'd flee to a monastery because at that point it's painfully obvious, we're boned.
Coward 🤡
What if the monestary has no more space cause a lot of men also thought of the same? What then you do?
Flee to a monastery…you realize that ain’t work right? In a world war no one is going to be exempt. You’ll serve one way or another.
"You can't do spiritual, pastoral guidance on the internet. It's not possible."
Respect for the Father.
Indeed you can
@@cynthiachaplin2367It has to be individual and in person. Things are lost online.
Spiritual is just that, not physical, guidance is basically advice That is what the channel is.
You absolutely can, and should be.
The very father says that he can't.
Romans 12:17-21
Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all.
If possible, on your part, live at peace with all.
Beloved, do not look for revenge but leave room for the wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
Rather, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head.”
Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good.
When dealing with an enemy you cant be a doormat! Buddy do you understand this? Its the reLity were dealing with
I believe that even if you are drafted it doesn't mean that you'll be in a combat role as Fr. Peter said and even if you are, the chances that you will kill someone are probably very slim (WW3? We'll probably be martyred drafted or not before making contact with the enemy). The USA has 4 logistics personel/1 combat soldiers. God will provide you alternatives even in the toughest situation, He might place you somewhere where you will be able to save a woman from being raped, a prisoner from starving, a brother in arms from losing his mind, etc. Discretion is the key to acting in a God-loving way no matter where you are.
As an American, there's no way that im going to send my sons to go die for the New World Order.
Liberty Prime would you die for freedom? Because communism is coming from the Pacific...
Joined the US military when i was still under the protestant worldview. Now that I am in the process of entering the Church, the only thing “keeping me in” is being a supervisor and mentor being able to guide young men and women in the right direction with their lives, focusing on the spiritual. That and the potential locations I can end up being at.
There’s a plethora of good traits and habits and skillsets that the military has taught me. The negative is exactly what Fr. Heers focuses on: I may one day be asked/forced to go take part in a conflict that cannot be morally justified (War is a Racket is in my opinion mandatory to read).
For the Orthodox young men in America: consult your priest. America may be holy one day, but it is not today.
Our responsibility is to stay true to the narrow path and bring up those alongside us, those around us. To spread the word of the Gospel and the One True Faith
I do not envy you your position. May God grant you strength.
Unfortunately, God will actually hold you to your constitutional oath.
@@GravelpitdiverNot really. They persecuted the natives in Alaska who had embraced Orthodoxy. Besides, we'd worship as Orthodox whether free to do so or not.
Hello! I am a romanian living in Romania. War is only 7km away from me since the border with ukraine is very close to where I am and we see from here explosions and military equipement. My question is...what should I do if war would come here? I have no problem dying in a war, my only problem is that if Russia would be the enemy I would fight another orthotox people. That is my only conflict. I do not fear the war otherwise. Life and death are in the hand of God. May His will be upon me. I trust Him 100%. But should I fight agains other orthodox people?
It sounds to me like Fr. Peter answered this question when he said "defending the country is blessed". He was speaking about America, but it applies equally to Romania and any other country. Defending your people against foreign aggression is blessed by God. "No greater love has a man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." Any Orthodox soldiers and commanders that would take part in a war of aggression against another country, especially when that country is Orthodox, are not being Orthodox in their action (aka orthopraxis), because such aggression does not glorify God and is unlawful. God forbid that it should come to such a thing (I say this as a Romanian-American who loves both his fatherland and his adoptive homeland), and may God have mercy on us and bring us all to repentance and give us the gift of His peace and reconciliation. Doamne miluiește! Lord have mercy 🙏
If your country is invaded defend it but if it is the one attacking try to avoid it if possible.
Am avut un unchi care a murit in ofensiva germanilor impotriva rușilor, de partea nemților.
Cind a plecat la război mama lui tragea de el și jelea!
Avea 21 ani si era cel mic.
A murit degeaba pentru politicieni corupti.
Rusia e vecină cu România.
De ce România vrea să intre într-un război civil?
Rusia no o să atace România decât dacă o atac-o NATO direct.
Rusia nu are problemă cu România. A acceptat să intre in NATO.
Cine conduce România, NATO sau politicieni corupți?
Pentru cine vrei să mori?
Nu merită nici unul si sunt mulți care vor ca tu sa mori pentru interesul lor!
Salut! I have the same predicament and I will come back to suggest a couple books in romanian on this subject. If I remember…
Have you watched the Recorder material about the state of our military? If Russia invades the only thing we are going to be able to do is die.
USA
USA
USA
Jk I’m totally dodging if it comes to it.
Not a brag m8
Pathetic 🤡
@@micheypatsa It could hardly be called a brag. Dodging the draft in the 21st century (with the conflicts unfolding as they are) won't be a vacation or a cowardly endeavor like it was in Vietnam. It will likely mean severe persecution, regardless of your reasons. Just know what the consequences may be and face them courageously and with grace.
@@micheypatsa yeah, not a brag. I’m not going to die for israel
@@aaronwolf4211 I would rather be thrown in jail than to kill and die for what this country has turned into
What about defending a country that supports antichristian laws? (Like most northern european countries)
I hope I live to see myself married and fathering many children. These things make me anxious. Please do pray for me Fr. Heers 🙏 🙏 🙏
I’m 28 and I’ve struggled to find someone and I don’t even have the money to move out yet. I’m trying to do so by next year or winter of 2025, God willing.
You know I wanted to join the Marines ever since I can remember.
Though recently being drawn to Orthodoxy Ive changed my mind.
My focus from the Marines shifted to wanting to just grow in Christ and in Orthodoxy.
I'll support our Military there is no doubt the men and women who do serve deserve the world. Though you can't with the leadership; and how these extremists push for globalism.
I don't want to hurt someone but I would if it came down to defending my Community, my Country, and my Faith. My heart would ache but if it was something I had to do I would no doubt.
Christ bless you, father, for your spiritual wisdom and discernment on these subjects. IC XC NIKA ☦☦☦
Former 11B, 2-28 black lions, served in Pakita Afghanistan from 2011-2012
Do NOT join, you are not fighting for any honorable principle such as freedom or honor or any other vague concept, you are fodder for Black Rock Vanguard and Boeing. A pawn for the pocketbook of politicians.
Stay at home to defend your family, our enemies are within our nation in the forms of politicians and elites, not other nations
If the draft happens, find where your politicians live and permanently solve the problem
I would say, please speak for yourself.
This nation is not my "homeland". I know many people love and enjoy it, but I am not among them.
Then leave 🤡
@@terrorists-are-among-usto where? Other nations actually have immigration laws 😂
@@terrorists-are-among-usit will not take long for America to cease existing
@@fullm3taljacket marry a "Palestinian" 🤡
@@terrorists-are-among-us why?
Let us pray.
Very simple... our country lives by the sward and will die by it. You partake in the sins of a nation, you will suffer as it does. Just as Christians have done for thousands of years... you fight for what is good and you flee from evil. What our country is doing is the epidemy of evil. We've become a hissing around the world. Your relationship with Christ is the only thing that matters.
Impeach Biden!
Saint Matthew 5:44-48
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.
For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same?
And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same?
So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Please do a video specifically about the prophesies regarding WWIII, that you mentioned. I hear a lot of references to Orthodox prophesies, but have seen nothing concrete.
Prophecy is more a warning than an absolute.
I asked my cousin who is an Orthodox priest about this once. His answer was follow the commandments and don’t concern yourself with the rest. We are warned that there will be many false prophets and that most people lack the knowledge and understanding to discern between them.If you fall into a trap of believing the false prophesies then you inevitably will be lead down the wrong path of trying to fulfill them.
@@branka570most of these prophets are saints
World War Now talks about them all the time
@@fullm3taljacketI know that. I was not in any way trying to deny or question that God has given us warnings through our saints. But as Christians we are told and we KNOW what’s coming. But God and only God will decide when.
Well if you don’t want to get drafted vote republican trump
The mental torment from killing others is haunting ptsd also calling sin so dont act on false labelling deliberately done so for unknown reasons evil doesn't make sense however im not naturally good i was blind griwing up and took on board media values so if im loving god and neighbour as myself i have no time too hate them
I would not submit to governance in the time of martial law or draft efforts. My actions would be more regulated towards protecting the church during this time from the government itself. The young men being removed would destroy the church in America.
As an Orthodox Christian, I still don't fully understand this, could someone answer my questions?:
1. Saint Paul tells us to submit to authorities in Romans 13:1. Going off of this, wouldn't disobeying draft laws would be unChristian and also have serious legal implications. You might say "St Paul also tells us to not uphold state law when it violates God's law" but I don't see how serving in the military, even in one that would go to war with Orthodox-majority countries, is a violation of God's law. There are Orthodox Christians in every nation and indeed the Church supersedes ethnicity, national origin and region, to say otherwise is a condemned heresy called Phyletism. So why should I disobey draft orders solely because I don't like the country issuing them?
2. Is it possible for an American to be an Orthodox Christian? I don't mean just physically, either. The United States of America has a history of defying Monarchical institutions considered tyrannical, especially earlier in its history. American history and culture also revolves around commemoration of figures which may have had connections to Orthodox Christianity but were not Orthodox. The Puritan Pilgrims, the Colonists, George Washington and the Continental Army, etc. held many views that were not Orthodox. I'm not referring to _supporting_ beliefs held by these people, but recognizing that they had an important place in American history.
3. Can you be Orthodox without being exotified? This is somewhat a continuation of my 2nd question but it basically revolves around having a culture and environment that isn't Greek or Russian and so on. I know it's possible to live in America and be an Orthodox Christian, but you are surrounded by Greek and Russian terminology, customs and traditions which may not accurately reflect the early Church's traditions (an example of this would be some Serbian Orthodox churches using willows instead of palms on Palm Sunday, even when palms are now readily available) I want to be an Orthodox Christian without feeling like my parish is an exotic exhibition. And keep in mind I go to an Antiochian Greek Orthodox parish that uses 100% English liturgy and has an American convert priest.
If you voted for the President who imposed the draft, then you should go. If not, then avoid it by any means you can.
I'M NOT GETTING DRAFTED
"We are not a philosophy, but a divine revelation. That is why you just can't exterminate us. The more you kill the more we are. The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.... And you frustrate your purpose because those who see us die wonder why we do... and when they find out, they join us" - Tertullia 160AD - 240AD
Oh what courage, what great love, to lie down one's life in peace in following the Lamb of God as a sheep to the slaughter.
Lying down one's life, even for the one's that terrorize you with unspeakable brutality, is the epitome of courage and obedience to Christ.
Contrarily, the more the professor of Christ engages himself in worldly wars to save himself, his possessions, his freedom, both soldier, women, and children die not knowing Christ at their hand, and the ears of many ate cut off from receiving the Gospel.
"You are the salt of the earth. If the salt looses its savor it good for nothing but to be trampled under foot of men."
The West is getting trampled because the salt has lost its savor. What are you going to do? Continue doing the same things that got you trampled while blaming the sinners that know not Christ, or repent?
Wonderful comment, thank you
I don't know about the US I am Canadian and if there is a draft I can't wait I'm in all the way in the event of war. It will be an infantry soldier or the navy I would jump at the chance would go for a deck gunner 50 caliber. So if ww3 happens I'm in.
I joined the navy when John f. Kennedy was president we were motivated when he said ask not what your country can do for you, as what YOU can do for your country don't be afraid the draft knows we're to place you without cell phones
I live in Canada and i was thinking about this the other day. There's not much left to fight for. Am I willing to put my life on the line for abortion, sexual deviancy, inflation, usury and nihilism in my own courty, just so we can spread it to others
Conscience objector is the word for protesting the military for religious reasons... please Lord protect our boys!!! Lord have mercy
I would love to guard an Orthodox church/monastery for Catechumenship.
I could also clean everything but icons.
I already do both for a secular business
First
Who is chanting Axion Estin? Beautiful!
I'm thirty and I'm going to refuse to comply with a draft. Even if I have to go to prison or leave the country, I'm not following any orders. I will never fight or raise a family in a country with such disgusting values and culture. My grandfather fought in WW2 and ended up getting screwed over. With the way society is now and what it represents, I will not lift a finger.
Sir, for greater "yisrael", Sir
I would dodge the draft I dont care. Not fighting this insane war
☦️☦️☦️
Summary: “I don’t know”
No more J wars.
Bring the Draft. I know I'd do great as a sniper. I'm 5'5 and a half so I'd be easy to conceal, I have upper body strength and years of Firearms knowledge. Just DON'T MAKE ME BUNK WITH THE FEMINISTS! 😂
You don't need the draft for that. You can go sign up right now.
@@personnesenki4521 Sure will. Everyday I'm convinced more and more to Join the Military especially since their ain't shit for me in this failed society
GO TO MEXICO lol
Why would I pick up arms in service for my country when I can be so much better utilized for the betterment of my country doing things I am trained and skilled at like working heavy machinery, urban development, community service, donate blood and food bank drive in a time of war and conflict, I am obstensibly against violence and killing, I see it as I have no authority to attempt to take away a precious child from a mother and father as well as putting myself into a same situation to happen to me! I was honed in and educated for building bridges and meaningful infrastructures, not for destroying it for the sake of "national defense" or interests! You don't send a construction worker to be a club bouncer, that will yield poor results.
If the country you live in is haveing a draft look at the reason your country is going to war and ask yourself if its a cause you can get behind. Thats a choice that you should make on your own dont let the bias opinions of politicians or religious leaders be discourage your decision no matter what you choose
Running is a healthy sport any folks who are inclined to enjoy the freedom of healthy benefits it gives.
It shoud be a Sinod to tell people don’t accept go to war…refuse as a christian no matter what
Based answer!
Do not serve evil:
“Touch no unclean thing.” 2 Cor
“The nations are as a drop in the bucket. They are nothing and less than nothing. They are accounted as a vanity.” Isaiah 40
There is nothing extreme about refusing to serve evil, even if that means refusing the draft. Plenty of holy martyrs died or were tortured for refusing the states unholy dictates. Were they extremists who refused the royal path? No.
What prophecies are we talking about? Is there a specific prophecy on World War III?
Many. See World War Now for more
"You can't serve two masters or you will love one and hate the other."
I get sick to my stomach seeing those who name Christ as Lord waving flags and killing others for land, resources, worldly possessions, security, and freedom.
If you didn't want to be a peaceful lamb to the slaughter, you should not have agreed to follow the Shepherd who leads to the cross of crucifixion and the house of slaughter.
Taking up the sword, like Peter, cuts off ears from hearing the Gospel.
Pacifism is not Christian either. There is a time and place for warfare, it's unfortunate but still a reality.
@@Cobruh_CommanderRomans 12:17-21
Do not repay anyone evil for evil; be concerned for what is noble in the sight of all.
If possible, on your part, live at peace with all.
Beloved, do not look for revenge but leave room for the wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”
Rather, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals upon his head.”
Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good.
Saint Matthew 5:44-48
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’
But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you,
that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.
For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same?
And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same?
So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.
1 Samuel 2:6-9
“The LORD puts to death and gives life,
casts down to Sheol and brings up again.
The LORD makes poor and makes rich,
humbles, and also exalts.
He raises the needy from the dust;
from the ash heap lifts up the poor,
To seat them with nobles
and make a glorious throne their heritage.
“For the pillars of the earth are the LORD’s,
and he has set the world upon them.
He guards the footsteps of his faithful ones,
but the wicked shall perish in the darkness;
for not by strength does one prevail.
Proverbs 16:32
The patient are better than warriors,
and those who rule their temper, better than the conqueror of a city.
Saint Matthew 10:28
And do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both soul and body in Gehenna.
@@Cobruh_Commander Like killing hundreds of thousands to over a million civilians, half of them children, in Iraq and Afghanistan? The fact is, the mortal enemy of Christ's disciples has been arousing them to fight in wars for the same false reasons for centuries, often pitting brother against brother. Name just one just war American supposed Christians have ever engaged in and I can easily refute it? I can also show that Christians engaging in the lm has done nothing but been a primary cause in the increase of wickedness in the world.
Jesus was no pacifist either. He flipped tables, used whips, strong language, and told the Apostles self defense was perfectly fine
@@fullm3taljacket Jesus could have destroyed the Romans & The Jews. What did he do?
Saint John 15:13
Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Saint Luke 6:35-38
But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.
Be merciful, just as [also] your Father is merciful.
“Stop judging and you will not be judged. Stop condemning and you will not be condemned. Forgive and you will be forgiven.
Give and gifts will be given to you; a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing, will be poured into your lap. For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”
Saint Matthew 16:24
Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me."
It's a drug that manufacturers drugs. Just say no.
I saw him two weeks ago at the St Anthony Monastery.
Get a job at raytheon, problem solved
what if your a monk?? is the answer the same??
It's a toughy 😬
A non-answer. I have unsubscribed.
With wisdom, you would've heard the answer.
I'm sure he won't miss you
@@fullm3taljacket The feeling is mutual, believe me!
I will miss him. He should let us know what the correct answer is -- if he loves us.
Stay and enlighten us.
@@OrthodoxEthos Beautiful reply. "The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against His Anointed...."! How can one fight for an evil Government and take the life-blood of other human beings at the say so of the wicked? The Ancient Romans used to say, "Dulce et decorum est pro patria mori" (Latin translate: "It is sweet and proper to die for one's country"!). No...the only honourable death is that of a Martyr who spills his life-blood in the Name of the Lord Jesus...
IMO
Great response.
☦️🗿
Hmmm. Well, if against Orthodox Christian nations and peoples, declare as a Conscientious Objector. If legitimately defending American soil from an invading host, even if an Orthodox Christian army, do what is lawful & honorable to help your homeland and press for ceasefire & peace ASAP.
Defending this government from an Orthodox Christian government is laughable
That’s true, but what if the Orthodox government doesn’t respect individual rights and freedom? Whoever messes with my rights and freedom is asking to be messed up, Orthodox or not.
@@chriskourliourod1651 Since when are rights and freedom in this liberal sense part of Orthodoxy?
@@matthewhamstein3811 on the nosey!
Umm, our puppet, Ukraine has banned the Orthodox Church and you think they'll allow conscientious objectors? Lol
Certainly is an ethical dilemmas which is proper to be addressed. I would nit doubt the benefits of a yourh joining. The military 🪖🎖️ to learn about syrength and honor and discipline and whathave you. But fir a youth to waste their life in a senseless war, why?. To adbance the political war machine for the sake of power and profit. This is just my opinion. I have never been to the military nor faught in a battle. I believe one thing, that war is h.e.l.l. (forgive me) any way you look at it. But if is truly for freedom and country, then it is noble
I would prefer to learn discipline in a monastery.God willing☦️
I would have to refuse even if they put me in jail or kill me, im still young but soon will be in a monastery to remain pure and celibate for God☦️I pray to God for the nuke to not hit me as it says in prophecy..Peace be upon all🙏❤️☦️
I'll fight to _defend_ this country when it starts respecting and defending my basic rights as a man as much as it does for women, and when it provides special privileges in exchange for me being drafted. Until then... a gender-reversed white feather campaign?