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 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.
Many Protestants think Confession is not biblical. In this post, we explore what the Bible really says about Confession in the Church.
In this post, we explain what the sacrament of Confession is, why we need it, and how often Orthodox Christians should go.
In this post, we examine Romans 2:2-16, which describes the basis of God’s judgment and shows us how we can prepare ourselves for it.
Many people believe the Second Commandment forbids icons. But the Scriptures disprove this. What does this commandment forbid, if not icons?
On January 7th in the Orthodox Church, we commemorate the glorious Prophet and Forerunner Saint John the Baptist, cousin of Jesus Christ.
During the course of a year, Orthodox Christians fast between 180-200 days. Diligently following the fasting guidelines of the Church can be quite an undertaking.
As Eastern Orthodox Christians, fasting is an integral part of our spiritual journey. It is not merely a dietary restriction, but a means of drawing
The holiday season brings with it many cherished traditions, several of which have become deeply embedded in contemporary culture. Among these is the widespread practice
If we are to call Thanksgiving a holiday (“holy day”), it must be more than remembering the pilgrims and gorging ourselves on roasted turkey.
Orthodox Christians hold incredible respect for clergy. In this post, we explain the proper way to greet an Orthodox priest or bishop.
Delve into the theological differences between Orthodox and Roman Catholic teachings on purgatory.
Can Orthodox Christians use tarot cards? Discover the insights on tarot and its compatibility with Eastern Orthodox views on spirituality.
If God is knows all things, do we really have free will? In this post, we explore the early Church’s teachings about free will and choice.
Learn about what is sexually appropriate in an orthodox marriage and how to cherish and sanctify marital intimacy.
Many Orthodox Christians often wonder what the boundaries are when it comes to celebrating Halloween. Is it okay for us to participate?
***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.
