The Essential Role of Church Participation
From the perspective of traditional church norms, ceasing to attend church is not considered a positive or voluntary path for a Christian. Attending church is a central element of church life, necessary for participating in the sacraments and ceremonies that confirm one’s belonging to the Church and ensure the receipt of spiritual support. Conversely, stopping church attendance is more often viewed as a consequence of a disciplinary measure—excommunication—which, according to church tradition, is applied in cases of serious transgressions or persistent refusal to adhere to established behavioral norms.Thus, as noted in one of the sources dedicated to traditional decrees, it is stated:"If excommunication has a religious, rather than a legal meaning, then it inevitably results in the cessation of church prayerful fellowship. And if you do not obey the church either, then you will be regarded as a pagan and a tax collector (Matthew 18:17)." (source: link txt, page: 363)This means that ceasing participation in church fellowship is primarily a sanction imposed within the disciplinary system to restore spiritual order, rather than a simple recommendation or piece of advice.Furthermore, the importance of regular church attendance for spiritual growth and full participation in Church life is underscored in another source:"On Sunday, a Christian should devote themselves to communion with God through attending church, prayer, reading spiritual literature, and performing acts of mercy. It is especially important on this day to attend church, participate in communal church prayer, and be present during the main Church Sacrament—the Divine Liturgy..." (source: link txt, page: 3)Thus, advising a Christian to discontinue regular church attendance does not align with fundamental religious teachings, as such practice contradicts the Church’s obligatory role in a believer’s life. Excommunication or other disciplinary measures are applied only as corrective actions in cases of serious violations, not as a recommended pathway for voluntary withdrawal from Church life.Given the above, it is more appropriate to strive for the restoration and strengthening of one’s relationship with the Church rather than renouncing participation in its activities.