August 15, 7533
How should one pray at home for the health or repose of non-Orthodox people, especially if they have non-Russian names? Is it permissible to submit notes for deceased relatives of another faith in their heretical churches? Can one participate in the burial of a non-Orthodox relative? In response to your question, it is worth noting…
There is an ancient saying: “The cell has no rule.” A layperson can develop a personal schedule for home prayer that suits their circumstances. For guidance, one might look to the expectations for a monk’s private prayer. It is advisable to read Compline and Midnight Office daily, as these are part of the mandatory private prayer rule for monks. Many Christians…
The lestovka is a type of prayer rope that was widespread in ancient Rus’ and remains in use among the Old Believers. It is a variety of the vervitsa (corded rosary), typically made of braided leather (or, in later times, of cloth or imitation leather) sewn into a loop. It symbolizes both the ladder (lestvitsa) of spiritual ascent from earth to…
On the summit of a hill stands a dark, weathered Cross. And below lies a village—poor, impoverished, and weary. In moments of deep sorrow, it stretches upward toward that blessed tree. A line of wretched and broken people climbs the steep path, clinging to the rocks, bearing the full burden of their suffering. Whoever has…
…I once saw a beautiful painting entitled The Shadow of the Cross. The Lord, still a Boy, is standing beside Joseph’s carpenter’s bench. He has just finished His work: wood shavings lie scattered on the floor and the bench. The Child—Christ—gazes through a narrow window in the humble room. It seems to be evening: the window…
On the Friday of the Sixth Week of Lent: A teaching by John Chrysostom on Repentance, and on How Sins Are Forgiven. Therefore, considering this, let us never despise anyone, and never, when we sin, fall into despair, nor let us become sluggish in returning once again. Rather, when we sin, let us offer contrite…
On Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent, on the Revelation to the Holy Apostle Paul concerning the Departure of the Soul from the Body Sons of men, bless the Lord God without ceasing—every day, every night, and every hour. As the day passes and the sun sets, all the angels assigned to mankind—both men…
On the Same Day [Saturday of the Fourth Week of Lent], a Homily of Our Holy Father Niphon, on How Orthodox Christians Ought to Eat at the Table in Silence Once, as the venerable Father Niphon was walking, he saw a man sitting at table, eating with his wife and children, and with others who…
On Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent: A Teaching of Saint John Chrysostom on the Fear of God Listen, my brethren: above all, have the fear of God in your hearts. For if a man acquires the fear of God in his heart, he can be lifted away from all evil. Be diligent and…
On Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent, A Teaching of Saint John Chrysostom on Prayer Let all who hear these words take them to heart sincerely. When I say to you, “Pray to God and keep His commandments,” do not say, “I have prayed to Him many times, yet received nothing.” Do not give…