The language of the services should match the language of the sermon, the language of parish council and annual meetings, and the language in any financial appeals. Half and half, repetition in both, trade each week, your favorite language for your favorite parts, etc. "But no one would stick around for all that... But no one would understand that... That part doesn't sound right... That's confusing..."

Regarding Constantine, here is an "article by Fr. George Metallinos that portrays the truth about Constantine the Great and shows with conviction why the Orthodox Church honors him as a Saint and 'Equal of the Apostles'. It also answers the numerous critics of Constantine, among whom accuse him as being one of the most evil men in history. This is a transcribed lecture translated from Greek [by John Sandopoulos of the Mystagogy blog]." http://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2010/05/constantine-great-and-historical-truth.html

Actually, the OCA Statute balances the needs of the diocese with those of the Holy Synod and with some control for canons, 'Orthodoxy' over and against the potential for 'democracy' a la Protestant episcopalianism masquerading (unknowingly?) as sobornost. As to how bishops are chosen, the Statue of the OCA sets out rather minimal requirements and guidance for both process and responsibilities of candidates, Dioceses and the Holy Synod. While the recent process followed in Western PA may be held up as ideal by some, it is required neither by statute or canon; both Synod and Assembly have to work together to hear and be heard regarding their concerns and their vision, but both Statute and canons are clear as to which body holds full and final responsibility for the election of bishops: the Holy Synod itself. That being said, the Synod is not given carte blanche to make a decision without either diocesan input or feedback in the episcopal selection process. (In this way, the laity en masse and via its representatives at various levels of Church administration and management act like the Emperor and Tsar did, i.e., laity with significant influence on the Church via the purse. I have called this concept the 'imperial laity', and it is not without precedent in Orthodox tradition - though not generally in the form of elected representatives and assemblies as is the case in the OCA Statute). For a little more on the Statute requirements, see my "On the Nomination & Election of a Diocesan Bishop" here: http://orrologion.blogspot.com/2009/08/on-nomination-election-installation-of.html

Sorry, I meant "I found the press release rather odd..."