Cream of the Crop

Although I am not sure my priest will appreciate being referred to as the cream of the crop, that description serves him well. I am sure he will not appreciate any accolades, especially public ones, but such an attitude is indicative of his heart. Father Steven Rogers was a writer and a print journalist before becoming an Orthodox priest. He and I also have in common the fact that we are both good Southern Baptist boys. He is not only a humble, well reasoned individual, but a dynamic speaker and passionate pastor. What most do not understand about the commitment of an Orthodox priest is that they are devoted body and soul to the welfare of our souls. Father Steven physically and spiritually stands at the altar in the temple many times a week in prayer and at regular hours. He stands on our behalf in the temple when people are present and when there is no one there but God. He has a demeanor of good humor, meekness and strength. His ministry reaches beyond the acreage on which St. Ignatius sits. He is mission minded having assisted in the development of other bodies, most recently the establishment of a new parish in a neighboring town. He did so knowing that some of his own parish members would be leaving his own flock to join there. His lack of feeling threatened or fear of someone encroaching upon his territory shows his heart's attitude that it is God's church, not his, and the goal is men's souls. When you ask Father Steven a question, bring your notepad, for the answer will be thorough. You may find, however, that your notepad remains empty as your soul is activated rather than your mind. To become Orthodox, he will say, is not mental gymnastics. It is not the type of Liturgy used, and it is definitely not Western in thought or philosophy. The main challenge Father Steven gives to all who will hear is that Orthodoxy is not shapes and forms but the renewing of your mind and the changing of your soul. For the Western man this is a greater challenge. Father Steven understands that challenge. With him there will be no quick or easy answers, because the soul and mind of man is not quickly or easily changed. It is said that if there is a longer way to do something the Orthodox will find it. Father Steven's own life reflects this perspective. He actually is a marathon runner. May my days under the pastorate of Father Steven be long, slow, and exhaustive, and may God give me the grace to hear with my soul what God would say through him.

[Note: Father Steven Rogers is priest of
Saint Ignatius Orthodox Church in
Franklin, TN]