If we desire mercy, we must be merciful Some people abandon themselves to sin in order to cover up their lack of self esteem. In their need for intimacy and acceptance, they seek out worldly pleasures, thinking these will fill the void that has kept them from happiness. In their
The litmus test for all human rights Freedom of religion has has always been the hallmark of our American way of life. Our Founding Fathers migrated to the shores of the New World primarily to seek religious freedom, fleeing as they where the religious persecution they suffered in England. The
Bringing the spiritual life into our workplace This blog was born out of an attempt on my part to help a young man begin his work day with a spiritual focus. I’d asked him to read the appointed Scripture readings for the Church’s liturgical cycle at his desk before beginning
Changing our bad behavior We often become frustrated with ourselves, wanting to change bad behavior, but seemingly incapable of making the changes we desire. Each week we confess the same sins over and over. We know the priest has heard the same confession, week after week, and we’re aware that
The transformational power of a Faith unchanged In an age when many Christian denominations are trying to appear relevant and modern, I am finding that large numbers of people are drawn to the Ancient Faith by the beard and robe. I am constantly thanked for dressing as I do by
A servant cannot be greater than his master The Sovereign Lord of the Universe came down to earth as a humble servant. He Who sits upon the Wings of the Seraphim, was born to us in a stable. The King of kings came as the Good Shepherd Who laid down
Important for both Confessor and Penitent The Seal of Confession is a hard and fast rule throughout the history of the Orthodox Church. Since the priest, in Orthodox theology, is but a witness to the confession, since the confession is given to Christ Himself, confidentiality is an absolute must. The
Encountering drought in one’s soul When most people think of Seattle, they think of rain, lots of rain. Anyone who would choose to live in the Puget Sound region better like rain, we tell our visitors. We love lush green forests, and rushing streams. We love our mountains, snow capped
The temptation of living only for the moment Medical science has proven that teenagers often act without forethought for the consequences of reckless behavior because their brains have not yet fully developed. They are not simply being defiant of the rules of driving, or taking chances with dangerous behavior, but
Cruel and depraved is the killing of the unborn child We are living in a period of history that has seen the cause of human rights take the forefront as never before. We champion the cause of equality under the law for minorities, and continue the struggle for equal rights