Part I. Source: Orthodox Christianity. Reprinted with permission. An example of the grace of the Holy Spirit at work within the life and words of St. Seraphim of Sarov has been preserved for us. In November of 1831, a pious Orthodox Christian named Nicholas Motovilov met with Saint Seraphim, and recorded his conversation. Nilus wrote the following … [Read more...] about Saint Seraphim of Sarov on the Acquisition of the Holy Spirit: A Conversation with Motovilov
Spirituality
Akathist Hymn For The Repose Of Those Who Have Fallen Asleep
From the Akathist: Illumined with the effulgence of the Most High, the venerable Macarius heard a voice issue forth from a skull, saying: “When ye pray for those suffering in hades, even the heathen experience relief.” O the wondrous power of Christian prayers, whereby light doth penetrate even the uttermost depths! Yea, even unbelievers receive consolation with the faithful … [Read more...] about Akathist Hymn For The Repose Of Those Who Have Fallen Asleep
Prayer: An Ever-New Creation
By Elder Sophrony of Essex Prayer is infinite creation, far superior to any form of art or science. Through prayer we enter into communion with Him that was before all worlds. Or, to put it in another way, the life of the Self-existing God flows into us through the channel of prayer. Prayer is an act of supreme wisdom, of all-surpassing beauty and virtue. Prayer is delight … [Read more...] about Prayer: An Ever-New Creation
St. Paisios: How the Jesus Prayer Differs from the Hindu Mantra
Source: Agape en Xristou Excerpt from: The Gurus, Young Man, and Elder Paisios By Dionysios Farasiotis One of the greatest spiritual gifts that Elder Paisios gave me was his guidance along the mystical path of the Jesus Prayer. This started at the beginning of our acquaintance and continued until his repose twelve years later. The Jesus Prayer consists of the … [Read more...] about St. Paisios: How the Jesus Prayer Differs from the Hindu Mantra
Who’s Mary Magdalene?
Source: Orthodox Christianity. Reprinted with permission. By Olga Rozhneva Marina was shivering and reached for her warm sweater—the air conditioner was blasting. True, it was much more comfortable in the new Israeli bus than in the former, shabby Egyptian one, where even the seat backs were broken and wouldn’t stay upright. Regina the tour guide, a … [Read more...] about Who’s Mary Magdalene?