Our soldiers need the support of chaplains Back in 2011 our monastic community welcomed seven military chaplains from Joint Base Lewis-McChord. These fine young men who answered the call to serve the nation as military chaplains, inspired me with their commitment to Christ, and their willingness to enter into a
Everything proceeds out of God’s mercy There is a common misconception concerning the word “mercy”, used throughout the liturgical services of the Church, as well as our private prayers, and the Jesus Prayer. It is a given that we are all sinners, but the asking for God’s mercy is not
When balance is maintained we can coexist with the environment Our monastery has two large organic vegetable gardens, for we believe living without chemicals to be much healthier for ourselves and the planet. We raise free range chickens for their organic eggs, because it fits in with our overall view
Holiness comes only to those who keep vigil If we find we’ve neglected our spiritual struggle, and acted with foolish abandon, we, in our weakness, must turn to God in repentance, and this can happen only with an hourly examination of the heart. We must resolve to turn ourselves around,
All creation will come into the presence of God in the afterlife The Ancient Church taught that all creation will come into the presence of God in the afterlife. Some will bask in eternal joy because of the infinite love that is Almighty God. Yet those who will cower in
Continuing my struggle where God has placed me Following the foundation of the monastery in 1986, we chose to dedicate it to Christ Our All-Merciful God and Saviour. Thus began a journey that would lead Father Paul and me to a deeper commitment to Christ, even though it proved to
Seeking help from friends in high places Vigil lights are placed before the icons of the saints, according to Saint Symeon the New Theologian, as a way of showing that without the Light, Who is Christ, the saints are nothing. It is only as the light of Christ shines on
The compartmentalization of work can wreak spiritual havoc The compartmentalization of the work week can wreak havoc on the inner life. It is easier to keep your prayers, spiritual reading, and focus on Christ, reserved for the weekend. Like so many, you struggle to keep spiritually grounded while at work.
Giving our loved ones the gift of Orthodoxy through our witness We who have embraced Orthodoxy, naturally want to share it with friends and loved ones who are important parts of our lives. As we’ve experienced the Ancient Faith preserved into the modern age, we naturally want those who are
We should not remain static Anyone who is Orthodox knows that no Orthodox church is ever really finished. From the grandest cathedral to the simplest village church, there is always change taking place. Either a new icon is introduced to the church, or a new fresco is completed. Grander vestments