[Mello]

You know, it seems to me that it doesn't matter what we personally think about tattoos and piercings. Once we become Orthodox Christians we must accept the teachings of the Church throughout the ages. The Church teaches we should not scar (tattoo) or pierce our bodies. Thus, when we join ourselves to Her, we must no longer do these things. Just as we must no longer commit fornication, or adultery, no longer steal, and no longer commit murder. We must realize we are making a choice to sin if we then decide to commit these acts.

At the time I was Chrismated, so many years ago, now, I, too, had a tattoo (hidden) and a single piercing in each ear. I have not added any, although reluctantly. It simply cannot be a choice for me anymore.

I think we must be careful when making the decision to become Orthodox. We need to understand that we must give up many of our desires in order to attain that which we seek - the Kingdom of God. "It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Heb 10:31

But even if we fell "nilly-willy" into Orthodoxy, that still wouldn't excuse us from obeying the teachings of the Church throughout the ages. Once we are Orthodox we need to follow the teaching of the Church through the ages - no matter our personal desires. I encourage all of you to speak to your Spiritual Father / Confessor about it if you have questions.

Love in Christ
Dr. Elizabeth, the sinner
and Perennial Student