Category: Blog

The true Christian faith does not pander to the emotional instability of modern society. It does not reshape itself to suit the lusts of fallen man. Christianity, when it is authentic, is not designed to make men comfortable in their sin, but to call them to repentance. “Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.” (Matt. 7:14) The gate is narrow. The way is hard. There is no room on this path for compromise with the world’s passions. We do not have the authority to dilute the…

The season of the Great Fast approaches, and with it, the Church calls us to repentance, prayer, and ascetic labour. Fasting is not an optional devotion, nor is it a tradition of human invention. It is a commandment from God, given for our salvation. The Lord Himself fasted forty days in the wilderness, not because He needed purification, but to show us the path we must follow. If Christ fasted, how can we, who are weak and full of sin, neglect it? Yet, fasting is more than abstaining from food. The Prophet Isaiah warns against an empty fast, saying: “Is…

As the new year approaches, many reflect on the past twelve months and begin making resolutions. While it is common to focus on physical health or professional goals, we must not neglect our spiritual growth. The turning of the calendar is an opportune time to assess our spiritual lives and set resolutions that draw us closer to God. Unlike secular resolutions that often prioritise worldly success, spiritual resolutions aim to deepen our relationship with the Lord, conform us more closely to Christ, and prepare our souls for eternity. Our lives on earth are a pilgrimage, and setting spiritual goals helps…

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 serve as windows into the divine, much like the sacred imagery employed in the Old Testament. One of the strongest biblical precedents for the use of icons is found in the construction of the Tabernacle. God Himself commanded Moses to include sacred images in its…

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 grace. Our Lord Jesus Christ teaches us about the intimate nature of prayer: “But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew…

Follow Your Spiritual Father’s Guidance If you are unable to keep the full fast due to illness, weakness, or medical needs, consult your priest or spiritual father. The Church does not expect the sick to fast in a way that worsens their condition. Modify the Fast According to Necessity Those with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, heart disease, or gastrointestinal disorders) may need to consume dairy, eggs, or even meat. Those on medications that require food should eat as necessary. The elderly or weak may be permitted a less strict fast. Spiritual Fasting Still Applies If you are unable to…

The veneration of icons is not an option in Orthodox Christianity. It is essential. It is not a cultural embellishment or devotional tool for the simple-minded, but an active and visible confession of the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ. Icons are not tolerated—they are required. Those who oppose icons do not merely misunderstand Orthodox worship; they misunderstand the very Gospel itself. The Incarnation is the Theological Foundation of Iconography The centre of the Christian faith is not an idea, not a principle, not a philosophy, but a Person: the Incarnate Word of God. “And the Word became flesh and…

Fasting, Prayer, and Confession in the War Against the Passions The Orthodox Church has never promised comfort. She promises salvation—and salvation is acquired by violence against the old man, by struggle against the passions, by war against the flesh. It is not won through vague spirituality or passive attendance in the temple. It is won by crucifying the body and taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ. “The kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force.” (Matt. 11:12) If a man would be freed from lust, pride, anger, gluttony, and sloth, he must live…

The spiritual life is warfare. It is not a sentimental experience or a hobby of the pious. It is the daily crucifixion of the flesh, the relentless struggle against the passions that seek to drag the soul into damnation. Among the most destructive of these passions in our age is lust—fed, glorified, and weaponised through pornography. The Apostle does not speak lightly on this subject. He declares war on it. “Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” (Col. 3:5) Fornication—πορνεία in the Greek—is not a weakness…