Schemata

     When someone makes a solemn commitment as an Eastern Christian monk he receives a garment called the "schema."  It is a piece of cloth similar to a scapular, portraying the cross of Christ and the instruments of the Passion. 
     "Schema" is the obvious source of our English word "scheme."
     In ordinary parlance the word "scheme" has the connotation of intrigue or underhandedness.  In fact, if you check your dictionary, you'll find that the number 1 meaning is "pattern."  The schema of the monk, worn like a yoke around his neck, symbolizes a pattern of life consecrated and dedicated to Christ.  As St. Paul said: "I preach Christ - and him crucified." (1 Corinth. 2:2)
     I love words.  They are full of surprises and various levels of meaning.  I love the English language because it is such a gathering of different languages.  That's why "spelling" is such an issue - because our words reflect their sources.  Datum (s) and data (pl), for example.  No one works with a "datums-base."  (Although some people do speak of charisms instead of charismata...Oh, well!)
     I have been pastor of St. George Melkite-Greek Catholic Church for over 16 years.  Most people know what a Catholic Church is.  But what is a Greek-Catholic?  What is a Melkite?  Are you Orthodox?  Yes - though many Orthodox would say we are not.  Are you Catholic?  Yes.  But most Catholics have never heard of us.   "I belong to the Eastern Church."  (Which one?  There are dozens!)
     Depending on context or mood, I am not only a pastor but a priest, a presbyter, a hieromonk, a hegumen, a minister and a preacher.
     This can all be very confusing.  But the very act of Creation was preceded by the Holy Spirit hovering over the waters of chaos.  Confusion or lack of understanding causes division, and that division can be enhanced by words.  But confusion or lack of understanding can also lead to knowledge and unity - also susceptible to the influence of words.
     The Gospel of St. John opens: "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God." 
     My hope and prayer is that this blog may gather words and ideas that lead to clarity, understanding and enjoyment.