
Why We Call The Virgin Mary “Theotokos”
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.
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.

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?

Can Orthodox Christians serve in the military while simultaneously upholding their faith? Is military service opposed to the Christian life?

Learn the difference between a heterodox Christian and a heretic, from the perspective of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Explore this edifying collection of prayer tips for stay-at-home moms. Cultivate faith and a Christ-centered atmosphere in your home.

Learn why the Orthodox Church rejects witchcraft as a demonic, spiritually harmful practice.
***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.