Prepare the Way of the Lord!

This Sunday, January 3, 2016 is the Sunday before Theophany.  This Sunday sets the stage for Theophany, the baptism of Christ by The Baptist.

It is interesting to note how the Gospel writers begin their works.  St. John begins with the pre-existence of Jesus Christ, the Word of God, as the second Person of the Trinity.  Read the rest of this entry »


“The Eyes of the Righteous”

It is now the time of the Nativity Fast, also known as Advent.  It is also known as the “Winter Fast,” or “Lesser Lent.”  Like Lent, Advent is a penitential season.  It is thus, a season of spiritual preparation.  During Advent we prepare to perceive and receive Christ anew into our hearts and lives.

There are some similarities to Lent.  The last Sunday before Lent is known as the “Sunday of the Last Judgment.”  The Gospel reading for the day comes from St. Matthew 25: 31 – 46.  In this reading we hear Jesus’ words:  “…As you did it to the least of my brethren, you did it to me.”  Who?  The hungry, sick, naked, and imprisoned.  As one reads along in the text, there is an element of surprise — even astonishment — in the query of the righteous. Read the rest of this entry »


Icon or Iconoclast?

I recently had the great joy and pleasure of serving at St. Seraphim of Sarov Orthodox Church in Boise, Idaho.  Since it is in the ROCOR jurisdiction it is on the Old Calendar.  So, Sunday, October 25, commemorated the Seventh Ecumenical Council and the Church’s ultimate victory in the Iconoclastic Controversy.  The destruction of icons had officially ended, and the restoration and writing of new icons could begin. Read the rest of this entry »