Why not the [fill in your favorite denomination]?

Why not the Greek Orthodox Church? Why not the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)? Those were certainly two groups I considered, despite their very distinct theologies.

I have great respect for the Orthodox churches, since they are quite in tune with the tradition of the church, and especially the significance of the liturgy. But I couldn't leave one church that restricts women religiously for another. Generally, I think that the Orthodox church is too uncritical of tradition. Sometimes doctrine must be reconsidered and revised in light of ethical demands. I appreciate the Episcopal Church's willingness to struggle with demanding ethical issues, and move forward, even when they may not be popular among many Christians. I believe the church should be on the cutting edge of standing up for what is right and good. Why does the church so often drag its feet?

I also have great respect for my Stone-Campbell background, which made me seriously consider the Disciples of Christ. There are many in this denomination that are rethinking the centrality of worship. They are also willing to discuss questions of justice. And certainly the shift in church culture would have been less drastic. But I fear that even the Disciples are too stuck in their American individualistic way of doing church. There is still too much rejection of church tradition for me. There is nothing necessarily wrong with tradition being less important for them, but I feel pulled to a group that places it near the center. Ever since I began reading church history, I have longed for a church that doesn't ignore (literally or practically) the ways of being Christian that have gone before us.

Does that help clarify my direction a little bit? I don't want to set out a list of reasons in one post. My intent is to reflect over time on the different aspects that have led me on this journey.