In recent years, an ugly trend has emerged among certain self-satisfied segments of the Orthodox Church—a dismissive and prideful contempt toward converts, frequently labelling them as “LARPERs” (Live Action Role Players)—a term originally coined to describe those engaging in theatrical, artificial mimicry. Within this context, it is used to accuse converts of play-acting Orthodoxy, of […]
The Love of the Sacred Heart in the Orthodox Tradition
As we come to the close of the month of June, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we continue to meditate on the boundless love of Christ. While the devotion to the Sacred Heart has been especially cultivated in the West, its essence is deeply Orthodox—rooted in the love of God made manifest in […]
Christ’s Love Through the Sacred Heart in the Orthodox Tradition
“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew […]
Is it Idolatrous to Use Icons?
The use of icons in Orthodox Christianity has often been misrepresented as idolatry, yet the biblical record provides clear evidence that sacred images were not only permitted but commanded by God in specific contexts. Understanding the distinction between veneration and worship is crucial. The Orthodox Church teaches that icons are not objects of worship but […]
The Lifeline of Prayer in the Orthodox Tradition
Prayer is the lifeline of our spiritual journey. It is through prayer that we open our hearts to God, commune with Him, and deepen our relationship with our Lord. In Orthodox tradition, prayer is not simply an obligation but the very breath of the soul, drawing us into the divine presence and transforming us through […]
God’s Mercy in the Sacrament
“The eyes of all look hopefully to you, and you give them their food at the right time.” In Psalm 145:14-20, we encounter an immense expression of God’s divine providence and compassion, reflecting the Orthodox understanding of our loving and merciful Creator. The Lord upholds all who fall and raises up those who are bowed […]
The Lord, Our Majestic King
“The Lord is king! Let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!” (Psalm 97:1) Our God reigns in majesty, clothed in light and splendour beyond all comprehension. The psalmist calls us to lift our hearts in praise and adoration, for the Lord is the Most High over all the earth. In Orthodox hymnography, […]
Embracing Divine Peace and Salvation
“Let me hear what God the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, to his faithful, to those who turn to him in their hearts. Surely his salvation is at hand for those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land.” (Psalm 85:8-9) In the midst of the […]
God’s Strength and Mercy
The reading from the Wisdom of Solomon (12:13,16-19) reveals the nature of our God as the one true and sovereign Lord who cares for all creation. In these verses, we are given deeper insight into the attributes of God that should shape our understanding of His divine character and our response to Him. The passage […]
What Kind of Ground?
“That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the lake. Such great crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat there, while the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: ‘Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as […]