Defenders or pretenders?
In the digital age, almost everything, including the search for faith, can be found online. Blogs, YouTube channels, social media pages, chat apps and discussion forums provide an endless stream of Orthodox content. While the internet can be an immensely helpful tool for learning about the faith and traditions, it also presents serious dangers, particularly for those who are new to Orthodoxy or seeking guidance. Below we will visit some of these spiritual dangers and how to engage safely online.
The Illusion of Authority
One of the biggest dangers of online Orthodoxy is the assumption that just because someone speaks confidently about the faith, they must be a reliable source. Many Orthodox content creators whether bloggers, YouTubers, or podcasters are not priests, theologians, or spiritual fathers and may even be relatively new to the faith. Some may be well-read and have good intentions, but they lack the pastoral experience and accountability necessary to guide others. Worse still, some promote distorted or extremist views that misrepresent the Church’s teachings.
Echo Chambers
Social media algorithms are designed to feed us content that reinforces our existing views and shows us similar content based on our searches. This can create dangerous echo chambers where people surround themselves only with voices that confirm their biases. Some online Orthodox groups become sectarian, fostering a spirit of judgmentalism, hostility toward clergy, or even schismatic attitudes. Instead of humbly submitting to the Church, individuals may begin to see themselves as “gatekeepers” or “guardians” of true Orthodoxy while condemning everyone else.
Replacing Spiritual Fathers with Internet Gurus
Orthodoxy is a lived and embodied faith, meant to be practiced in community under the guidance of a spiritual father. However, many people turn to online figures as substitutes for real pastoral care. They binge-watch reels and youtube videos or read theological debates while never stepping foot in a parish or seeking confession. Let’s be clear, no amount of online engagement can replace the sacramental life of the Church, where we receive real grace and transformation through participation in the mysteries.
Legalism vs. Humility
Online Orthodox spaces often attract those who fixate on rules and canons while neglecting love and humility. Some people become obsessed with proving others wrong, arguing about fasting rules, liturgical rubrics, or jurisdictional disputes, without cultivating the virtues of patience, kindness, and repentance. This mindset turns Orthodoxy into an intellectual exercise rather than a path to holiness that we should be navigating with our fellow Orthodox Christians.
Scandal and Gossip
Unfortunately, Orthodox social media is not immune to gossip, infighting, and scandal. Some platforms thrive on controversy, drawing attention by criticizing bishops, priests, or fellow Orthodox Christians. While there are legitimate concerns within the Church, airing grievances publicly on the internet rarely leads to healing. Instead, it breeds division, discouragement, and a loss of trust in the Church as a whole. This is exactly the goal of the enemy of our souls.
The Right Way to Engage with Online Orthodox Content
Despite these dangers, the internet is not inherently bad. When used wisely, it can be a valuable tool for education and connection. Here are a few tips for navigating online Orthodoxy safely:
Prioritize real-life Church participation. No website or podcast can replace the sacraments, confession, and personal relationships with clergy and fellow parishioners.
Seek guidance from trusted clergy. If you have theological or spiritual questions, ask your priest rather than relying on anonymous voices online.
Be discerning. Not all Orthodox content online is reliable. Look for sources that are endorsed by the Church, such as those connected to recognized Orthodox jurisdictions.
Avoid divisive and combative spaces. If an online discussion makes you feel angry, judgmental, or discouraged about the Church, it’s probably not leading you to Christ.
Cultivate humility. Remember that none of us have perfect knowledge of Orthodoxy, we are all constantly learning. The goal is not to win debates but to grow in holiness.
The internet can introduce people to Orthodoxy, but it cannot be Orthodoxy. The faith is lived in the Church, in worship, in prayer, and in repentance—in real life. The best way to grow in the Orthodox faith is not through endless scrolling, but by showing up, listening, and living the life of the Church as it has been handed down to us through the centuries.