Comments on: A Question

By: Huw

Huw — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 15:34:28 +0000

Well… this isn’t an Angelic Name, per se. St Raphael Hawaweeny was the first Orthodox Bishop consecrated in the US.

By: Michael

Michael — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 12:51:47 +0000

Well, obviously I am in favor of archangel names …

By: Monk-in-Training

Monk-in-Training — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 01:18:29 +0000

I concur, there is no real reason to change it, and Raphael is a beautiful name.

God bless you on your Reception.

By: Karen

Karen — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 01:09:38 +0000

Names are important. They mark us.

Many years ago, when dinosaurs walked the earth, I was a novice in a Roman Catholic religious order and was given the name Teresa (after Teresa of Avila). Although I now recognize that I was trying to take refuge in celibacy as a way of avoiding dealing with my sexuality, I have kept the name as my middle name even though I also have a confirmation name. It’s an essential part of the struggles and joys of my spiritual life, and I think Teresa of Avila is pretty cool anyway.

If Raphael is still resonating with you, there’s no reason not to continue using it. The name sounds like it’s been an important part of your spiritual journey.

By: James

James — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 23:36:32 +0000

I would stick with Raphael. I’m also in the process of leaving Orthodoxy and going back to being Anglican, but one thing I admire about Orthodoxy is its soteriology, particularly its focus on healing from the God who assumed our flesh rather than a legal decree by a wrathful God often prevalent in western christianity. I think the name Raphael will remind you of all that is good with Orthodoxy. It could be a source of rootedness minus the often chauvinistic aspects that come with that quality,

May God grant you many years,

St. James

By: Ian

Ian — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:40:18 +0000

No firm view from me…but I\’d say if Raphael is close to you, you may like to keep it.

And my prayers for your reception. May it be a blessed day.