The transformation in our world from a time when slavery was a “peculiar institution” to a time when the notion of “purchasing” a human being is unthinkable is nothing short of wonderful! And yet, human trafficking is still a very real crime in our modern world, even in our own “land of the free.”
Look…
Fr. Barnabas Powell
We live in an age where our advances in technology and medicine have gone a long way to remove inconvenience and suffering from we humans. People are living longer than ever before. In fact, it seems soon living to 100 is going to be the norm among us. We are healthier, have better medical treatments,…
St. Paisios once said "What I see around me would drive me insane if I did not know that no matter what happens, God will have the last word." I can relate!
And yet, there are also many wonderful and beautiful people and events happening all the time around us. Why is it so hard to…
Here's a quote I need to remember: "When you've done something wrong, admit it and be sorry. No one in history has ever choked to death from swallowing his pride."
And yet, we humans struggle with being mistaken or admitting we are wrong. But that initial reluctance rarely serves us well. In fact, I am convinced…
A few years ago someone came up with a startling statistic that I initially doubted then came to regretfully and grudgingly think might be true: That 9 out of 10 Americans with Greek ancestry are no longer connected to the Orthodox Faith. I didn't believe it because so many in my own parish were active…
“All is gift.” This phrase captures both the simple and profound message that embodies the mystery of living a Eucharistic life. You may ask “What does that mean?” And I understand. We moderns are far removed from a world where mystery and wonder and story dominated our human society. And we are impoverished by this…
Most of the time I feel pressed for time. A confession – I am addicted to saying “yes” to offers, invitations, and projects! I do this so often that my wife has to remind me that, as of now, I do not have the gift of bi-location! Because of this addiction, I frequently find myself stressed over deadlines, commitments, and projects yet to…
The whole notion of a high priest is so foreign to we egalitarian Americans and moderns. We are centuries removed from a time when hierarchy and royalty were the norm. But it’s helpful to remember that, for the vast majority of Christians who have ever lived, the notion of a hierarchy and even monarchy was…
Red Reddington on The Blacklist said "Fear is a liar. It activates the enemy." Now don't be too mad at me for quoting a fictional TV character! Besides, the quote perfectly reveals the dangers of living your life gripped by fear!
We humans are susceptible to the power of fear and its ability to cause us…
Just because something is popular, doesn't make it good or right. William Penn said "Avoid popularity; it has many snares, and no real benefits."
In my previous religious circles, we were always working to build a big crowd so that we could assure ourselves we were doing the right thing. Now, don't get me wrong, I…