On this blog, we write about the teachings and spiritual life of the Orthodox Church. We also write about the Church’s response to controversial issues, like abortion and divorce. Not sure where to start? Start with the Church’s teachings or check out our Ultimate Guide to Etiquette in Orthodox Churches.
In the Eastern Orthodox Church, we call the Virgin Mary “Theotokos”, because she is the mother of our Lord and God and Savior Jesus Christ.
In this post, we explain what blessed bread is and lay out some basic etiquette guidelines for receiving blessed bread during services.
In this post, we’ll give you some advice on how to handle your little ones during church services.
In this post, we outline some basic rules for modest and respectful dress for men and women in an Orthodox church.
Each year on the 40th day after Pascha, the Eastern Orthodox Church celebrates the Feast of the Ascension, when Christ ascends into heaven.
In this post, we explore the difference between the Coptic and Eastern Orthodox Churches and explain why they are not in communion.
After 40 days, a mother and her newborn child are “churched”, welcomed back into the life of Christ with special blessings and prayers.
In this post, we explain the holy mystery or sacrament of unction – the anointing of the sick with oil – in the Orthodox Church.
In this post, we explore the true nature of repentance, and how we can cultivate this transformation in our spiritual lives.
In this post, we explore Saint Gregory Palamas’ contributions to Orthodox Christian theology and his defense of hesychasm.
We see many misconceptions about the Orthodox Church’s teachings about divorce and remarriage. In this post, we clear up those misunderstandings.
Many wonder what happens to those who never hear the gospel. Discover how Orthodoxy addresses this question with hope and compassion.
In this post, we explain who can and cannot receive Holy Communion during an Orthodox Liturgy.
A reflection on the repose of Fr. Seraphim Moslener, beloved Orthodox priest, and the funeral services held in New Castle, PA, and at the Monastery of the Transfiguration.
Discover how living simply as an Orthodox Christian can deepen your faith and enhance your spiritual life amidst modern distractions.
Life circumstances can make parish attendance or pastoral care impossible. Want to become Orthodox but are physically isolated? Take heart!
Explore the significance of dreams in Orthodox Christian tradition and learn how to interpret them with care and discernment.
Reflect on the true meaning of “being born again” and how it shapes our understanding of baptism and the Kingdom of God.
Explore the relationship between Orthodox Christians and the environment, emphasizing stewardship and respect for creation.
Explore the inspiring story of the myrrh-bearing women and their profound faith in the face of sorrow and uncertainty.
***If you would like to offer prayers for living and departed, please submit two separate requests: one for the living and one for the departed.
