Twelve Days of Christmas
We all know the story of Christmas, and joys of this wonderful time of year to be with family and friends. But think beyond our modern customs . . . reflect on “The Twelve Days of Christmas” In the Christian tradition of both east and west, the twelve days of Christmas refer to the period […]
From PASCHA to Pentecost
After the 40-day Fast, Holy Week and the Glorious Resurrection, we look forward to celebrating the Paschal season of our Lord’s Triumph over death. No longer bound by sin, all mankind has the promise of Life Eternal. It is now up to each of us to grow in Faith. And looking to the wonderful legacy give us by […]
The Deeper Meaning in the Blessing of Homes
This little article was written by a pious priest, who has since reposed. It is not about what you already know about blessing homes – get a candle, get some holy water if you have it, get an icon, write out a list of all the living you want the priest to pray for, write […]
Great Vespers
In the Orthodox Church the liturgical day begins in the evening with the setting of the sun. This practice follows the Biblical account of creation: “And there was evening and there was morning, one day.” (Gen 1:5) The Vesper service in the Church always begins with the chanting of the evening psalm: “…the sun knows […]
Scripture in the Divine Liturgy
Opening Doxology – [“Blessed in the Kingdom…] Mark: 11:10; Luke: 22:29-30, Matthew: 28:19; Revelation: 7:12.The Great Litany – Philippians: 4:6-7; Psalm 51:1 Luke: 18:13; John: 14:27; 1 Timothy: 2:1-2; 1 Hebrews: 13:7; Psalm 109:26; Luke: 1:42.The First Antiphon – [“Bless the Lord, O my soul”]. Selected verses from Psalm 103.The Second Antiphon – [“Praise the […]