Author: Abbot Tryphon

Timeless Temples Orthodox temples have kept to the same form and function since ancient times. Using the Old Testament Temple model, Orthodox churches are divided into several courts or spaces peculiar to their function. The Holy Table, upon which is celebrated the Eucharist, is situated at the east end of

Just A Temptation Do you ever find yourself beset by a thought that robs you of peace and demands your attention? This thought is evil, a temptation, borne either of your own fallen impulses or inspired by demons. God is peace. Do not fight this thought by arguing with it,

Beloved in Christ I had two back surgeries, the second one was accompanied by complications that left me hospitalized for a month. So now I’m in a skilled nursing facility, going through rehab to get my strength back. I hope to be released to return to the monastery soon. In

Live Like Christ If we desire to please God, we only need to live our lives in imitation of Christ, Who both taught, and lived, humility. In our steadfastness in faith, modesty of attire, and simplicity in words and conversation, we imitate Christ. In our works of mercy, and in

No Despair It is only human to become despondent when we have failed in keeping to our moral, ethical and spiritual standards, succumbing, instead, to temptation. Our Orthodox Faith teaches that we must be compassionate towards others, loving, quick to forgive, exemplar in our Christian living, and always demonstrating to

Who Are You? There are two types of Christians. There are those who can say with the Apostle Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ: it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me (Galatians 2:20)”. And then there are those Christians who believe Christ was

Fear of Failure It is easy to be critical of another person by finding fault with what we perceive they are doing, have done, or have not done perfectly. Yet the man who points out how another man has stumbled, finding fault in something he himself has not done, and

Prioritize Paradise “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24). Are you more concerned about money, food, housing, and your popularity,

Live Your Purpose This earthly life that we have been given has no meaning unless we see it as a workshop for the future life. We must not neglect that which is of an eternal nature, for the Creator has bestowed this life upon us as a time of preparation

Cross to Paradise It is imperative that Christians endure the internal “crosses” that fall upon us through loving prayer to Christ, our Co-Suffering Saviour, Who alone can strengthen us to endure all in His love. It is only by God’s grace that we can see the dangers that lurk in