Posts Tagged ‘Church History’
The Protection of the Theotokos
Every October 1st the Orthodox Church commemorates the Holy Protection of the Theotokos. It is a day commemorating the appearance of the Theotokos in the 10th Century. She appeared in Church above the faithful ‘spreading out her veil’ to remind everyone of her devotion, love, protection and constant intercession to her Son, our God. Since…
Read MoreReligion and Politics
It’s been going on for centuries, millennia actually. Religion and politics have long been partners in gathering people and passing down important traditions of life. Long before Christ’s incarnation, even God used politics to organize the Church. It hasn’t always been great. Today’s Gospel lesson is an example of how God has partnered with government.…
Read MoreContext Matters
Many years ago, slaver owners used the Scriptures to defend their position of slavery. They were wrong. Today, many are still using the Scriptures to enforce or otherwise influence those around them. They are also wrong. The Scriptures guide us, but the Scriptures have context. Brethren, in whatever state each was called, there let him…
Read MoreAvoid Divisions in the Church
It seems to be ancient practice. Find a unified group of people and try to divide them. Kingdoms have risen and fallen again through ‘divide and conquer’ philosophies. It all started in The Garden. It all started with the ‘divider’ Satan. Saint Paul knew this. Before becoming Christian, and the greatest evangelist in Church history,…
Read MoreEpisode 479 – Knowing God in Communion
When Christ was about to be crucified, He prayed for the Church. He prayed that we might know Him. He prayed that we would have life in Him. He prayed that knowing Him as Father, Son and Holy Spirit would mean eternal life. The Church has protected that truth ever since. Transcript: My brothers and…
Read MoreThe Power of Compassion
Jesus said, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13.35) He also said, “Love your enemies.” (Matthew 5.43) Did you ever wonder what happens when we love one another and love our enemies? Even non-Christian historical texts verify that ancient Christians were compassionate to…
Read MoreConflict Resolution in the Church
Nobody is perfect but Christ, but that does not mean the Church doesn’t know the truth. Before His Passion Christ promised the Holy Spirit would come to the Church and guide the Church into the whole truth. If we don’t agree with someone it is the Church that resolves our conflict. Although the Church should…
Read MoreChrist is STILL Risen
What an amazing week we all had together. Even if we were in different cities on different continents, our journey through Holy Week and Pascha was a common journey together in Christ. We fasted together and then we celebrated together. Now, we’re exhausted. For our lack of sleep and celebration yesterday, Christ is STILL Risen…
Read MoreNo Shame about Christmas
When everyone around you seems to have forgotten why Christmas is important, it can be awkward keeping focus. We are fasting. ‘They’ are feasting. We are praying. They are shopping. We are serving others. They are demanding special treatment at the checkout lane. Being a Christian is hard enough in modern America. Being an Orthodox…
Read MoreTruth in Love
Speaking the truth can sometimes be awkward or even dangerous. Saints were martyred because they spoke truth. Holy men and women lost their fortunes because they lived the truth. Even we are forced to discern, daily, whether it would be good to speak the truth or not. In today’s reading from Saint Paul’s First Letter…
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