Acquiring the Spirit

THEOCUS demonstrates new commitment to growth

2006-06-27T05:57:00.000-07:00

The Eastern Orthodox Church, as the unchanged Church of the New Testament, has much to offer our country and our local communities. Jesus Christ gave us the Great Commission to go out and make disciples of all the nations. Growth is a priority of our diocese and its leadership.

In carrying out this mission, the Holy Eastern Orthodox Church of the United States is establishing a Mission Committee. This committee will be composed of volunteer laypersons from each parish or mission in THEOCUS. With the advice and support of THEOCUS clergy, the committee will serve the mission of the diocese though various activities including but not limited to Visitor Follow-up, serving as a contact point for inquirers, a liaison between potential mission plants and the Bishops, and share ideas among THEOCUS parishes.

Membership on the committee is a volunteer basis. Local committee members serve under the guidance of their parish clergy. The Mission Committee as a whole is under the jurisdiction of the Bishops.

May 28, 2006- 6th Sunday of Pascha

2006-05-29T15:07:00.000-07:00

Pascha

6th Sunday of Pascha

Tone 5

Epistle- Acts 16:16-34
Gospel- John 9:1-38

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Thurs 6/1- Ascension of our Lord
Sun 6/11- Holy Pentecost
Mon 6/12- Holy Spirit Day
Sat 6/17-Sun 6/18- Diocesan Synod Annual Convention
Sat 6/24- Birth of John the Baptist

Orthodoxy 101: Spiritual Starvation

2006-05-29T10:21:00.000-07:00

NOTE: Newsletter has not updated later due to technical difficulties

SPIRITUAL STARVATION

Every one of us has watched television and been moved by the images of starving people in other countries. Their starvation is highly visible and our hearts are pricked with concern for these unfortunate people. Any God loving heart will be moved to sorrow at such a horrible sight.
What if I were to tell you that an extremely large percentage of world is starving to death right before our very eyes, and it is virtually invisible! Sure, most of the world's population looks as if they are fed all too well, then how can they be starving to death?

They are spiritually starving to death! This starvation cannot always be detected with our physical eyes. This type of starvation is only clearly visible when we look at the situation with the spiritual eyes of understanding.

Constantly on the news we hear of road rage, unchecked anger, acts of terrorism, depression, murders, and every type of crime you can possibly imagine! Society today appears to be unraveling at the edges. Never has the world been more affluent, and never has the world suffered such spiritual starvation!

A common symptom of spiritual starvation is someone who cannot deal with the daily upsets and worries that come their way. They are devastated by anything negative that they encounter, and as a result their spirit dives into a depressed state. This state of mind is like falling into a well, it's almost as difficult to get out of a well as it is for a person in this frame of mind to overcome their depression and anger.

All you need to do is talk with someone about their religious beliefs to realize that the problem is far worse than we can ever imagine. People will tell you, "Oh, I don't need to go to church in order worship God, I can do that anywhere I am." Truly, you can worship God anywhere you are; however, God did not intend for us to worship alone.

"Whenever two or more are gathered in My Name, I will be in their midst!" Jesus Christ gave this wonderful promise to us! What a great reason to gather together in His Name to worship Him. The best place to gather in His Name is Church. Not just any church, but a church where the truth is taught.

You might say, well if you drive through virtually any city, you'll find churches everywhere. If churches are everywhere, then why are so many people suffering from spiritual starvation?
In order for our spirit to be properly nourished, it must be exposed to and believe the truth. We must worship God in Spirit and in Truth. Someone might ask, "What is the truth?" "We hear virtually every church proclaiming that they are teaching the truth!" Simply put, the truth can be summed up in the Nicene Creed of the Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church. This basic statement of belief evolved over the centuries during the Seven Ecumenical Councils. This statement of our Christian Faith spells out the truth pertaining to our salvation through Jesus Christ our God and Savior.

The Nicene Creed has been virtually abandoned in most all of the major non-Orthodox Christian religions throughout the world. Some religions proudly exclaim, "No Creed, but Christ!" They reject the Holy Spirit inspired Nicene Creed, then in the same breath claim to be teaching the truth! Many members of non-Orthodox Christian religions are offended when we refer to the Virgin Mary as the Mother of God, yet claim to worship Jesus Christ as God. How can the Virgin Mary not be the Mother of God, since Jesus Christ is God?

Many churches today teach that Holy Communion is only symbolic, and that it has no real power. This is a total departure from the truth. "I am the living bread which came down from Heaven. If any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever, and the bread that I give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us His flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say to you, except you eat the flesh of the Son of Man, and drink His blood, you have no life in you. Whosoever eats My flesh and drinks my blood, has eternal life; and I will raise him on the last day." John Chapter 6, verses 51 through 54.

Further proof that Holy Communion has power is found in St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians Chapter 11, verses 27 through 29, "Wherefore whosoever shall eat of the Bread, and drink of the Cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the Body and Blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of the Bread and drink of the Cup. For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's Body." How can something that is symbolic bring damnation if taken unworthily?

When you hear and believe the truth the Holy Spirit, bears witness to the truth and takes up His abode in your heart, He will always confirm the truth when you hear it. When the Holy Spirit dwells within you, your spirit is bathed in the uncreated light of truth, and as a result, you are given the strength to help others find their way to salvation. In other words, spiritual nourishment!

One of St. Seraphim of Sarov's famous sayings was: "Acquire the Spirit of peace, and a thousand souls around you will be saved!" Of a truth, if the Holy Spirit dwells in you, the peace you enjoy strengthens others! In order for this peace to strengthen others, you must gather with them in the common purpose of worshiping God. Draw strength from one another by confirming your faith with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

If you constantly eat foods that are not healthy, or refuse to eat at all, your body suffers physical starvation. You also will not have the strength to work at your daily labors. If you refuse to nourish your spirit through prayer and worship and the truth then your spirit will starve, and the result will be chaos in your mind, agitation of your spirit, and inability to cope with the slightest hardships of life gracefully.

A person with a well nourished spirit will be strong enough to realize that the evils that happen to us in our daily lives will cause us no real spiritual harm. By knowing this our spirits will remain in the light of Christ and not darkened by the evils of the world. A spirit centered in God, worshiping Him in Spirit and Truth is a balanced and peaceful spirit.

April 30, 2006- 2md Sunday of Pascha, Apostle Thomas

2006-04-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

Pascha

2nd Sunday of Pascha, Apostle Thomas

Tone 1

Epistle- Acts 5:12-20
Gospel- John 20:19-31

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Mon 5/8- Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian
Thurs 5/11- Sts Methodious and Cyril
Sun 5/21- Sts Constantine and Helen
Thurs 6/1- Ascension of our Lord

April 23, 2006- Holy Pascha

2006-04-23T15:58:00.000-07:00

Pascha

Tone 1

Epistle- Acts 1:1-8
Gospel- John 1:1-17

Christ is Risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.

Upcoming Holy Days

Mon 4/24- Bright Monday
Tues 4/25- Bright Tuesday
Fri 4/28- All Holy Theotokos of Lifegiving Font
Sun 4/30- Apostle Thomas
Mon 5/8- Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian

April 2, 2006-4th Sunday of Great Lent, St. John Climacus Sunday

2006-04-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

Great Lent

4th Sunday of Great Lent, St. John Climacus Sunday

Tone 8

Epistle- Heb 6:13-20
Gospel- Mark 9:17-31

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sun 4/9- Mary of Egypt Sunday
Sat 4/15- Lazarus Saturday
Sun 4/16- Palm Sunday
Thurs 4/20- Holy and Great Thursday
Fri 4/21- Holy and Great Friday

Holy Week- Sun 4/16-Sun 4/23

March 19, 2006-2nd Sunday of Great Lent, Gregory Palamas Sunday

2006-03-19T13:26:00.000-08:00

Great Lent

2nd Sunday of Great Lent, Gregory Palamas Sunday

Tone 6

Epistle- Heb 1:10-2:3
Gospel- Mark 2:1-12

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sat 3/25- Announciation of the Theotokos
Sun 3/26- Cross Veneration Sunday
Sun 4/2- St. John Climacus Sunday
Sun 4/9- Mary of Egypt Sunday
Sat 4/15- Lazarus Saturday

Holy Week- Sun 4/16-Sun 4/23

March 12. 2006-1st Sunday of Great Lent, Sunday of Orthodoxy

2006-03-12T16:24:00.000-08:00

Great Lent

1st Sunday of Great Lent, Sunday of Orthodoxy

Tone 5

Epistle- Heb 11:24-26, 32-12:2
Gospel- John 1:43-51

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sun 3/19- Gregory Palamas Sunday
Sat 3/25- Announciation of the TheotokosSun
Sun 3/26- Cross Veneration Sunday
Sun 4/2- St. John Climacus Sunday
Sun 4/9- Mary of Egypt Sunday

Holy Week- Sun 4/16-Sun 4/23

March 6, 2006- Begining of Great Lent

2006-03-05T13:21:00.000-08:00

Great Lent

Begining of Great Lent

Tone 4

Isiah 1:1-10
Gen 1:1-13
Proverbs 1:1-20

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sat 3/11- Food Pantry and Kapabilities meeting (St. Seraphim's)
Sun 3/12- Sunday of Orthodoxy
Sun 3/19- Gregory Palamas Sunday
Sat 3/25- Announciation of the Theotokos
Sun 3/26- Cross Veneration Sunday

March 5, 2006- Forgivness Sunday, Cheesefare Sunday

2006-03-05T13:16:00.000-08:00

Forgiveness Sunday, Cheesefare Sunday

Tone 4

Epistle- Rom 13:11-14:4
Gospel- Matt 6:14-21

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Mon 3/6- Great Lent Begins
Sat 3/11- Food Pantry and Kapbilities meeting (St. Seraphim's)
Sun 3/12- Sunday of Orthodoxy
Sun 3/19- Gregory Palamas Sunday
Sat 3/25- Announciation of the Theotokos

February 26, 2006-3rd Sunday of Pre-Lent, Meatfare Sunday, Sunday of the Last Judgement

2006-02-26T15:30:00.000-08:00

3rd Sunday of Pre-Lent, Meatfare Sunday, Sunday of the Last Judgement

Tone 3

Epistle- 1 Cor 8:8-9:2
Gospel- Matt 25:31-46

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sun 3/5- Cheesefare Sunday
Mon 3/6- Great Lent Begins
Sun 3/12- Sunday of Orthodoxy
Sun 3/19- Gregory Palamas Sunday
Sat 3/25- Announciation of the Theotokos

February 19, 2006- 2bd Sunday of Pre-Lent, Sunday of the Prodigal Son

2006-02-19T15:45:00.000-08:00

2nd Sunday of Pre-Lent, Sunday of the Prodigal Son

Tone 2

Epistle- 1 Cor 6:12-20
Gospel- Luke 15:11-32

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sun 2/26- Meatfare Sunday
Sun 3/5- Cheesefare Sunday
Mon 3/6- Great Lent Begins
Sun 3/12- Sunday of Orthodoxy
Sun 3/19- Gregory Palamas Sunday

February 12, 2006-Start of Triodion, Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee

2006-02-11T16:00:00.000-08:00

Start of Triodion, Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee

Tone 1

Epistle- 2 Tim 3:10-15
Gospel- Luke 18:10-14

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sun 2/12- Start of Triodion
Sun 2/26- Meatfare Sunday
Sun 3/5- Cheesefare Sunday
Mon 3/6- Great Lent Begins
Sun 3/12- Sunday of Orthodoxy

February 5, 2006- Sunday of Zaccheus

2006-02-05T15:15:00.000-08:00

Sunday of Zaccheus

Tone 8

Epistle- 1 Tim 4:9-15
Gospel- Luke 19:1-10

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Fri 2/10- Holy Martyr Haralambos
Sat 2/11- Food Bank, Kapabilities (St. Seraphim's, High Point)
Sun 2/12- Start of Triodion
Mon 3/6- Great Lent Begins
Sun 3/12- Sunday of Orthodoxy

January 29, 2006-32nd Sunday After Pentecost, Sunday of the Canaanite Woman

2006-01-29T13:18:00.000-08:00

32nd Sunday After Pentecost, Sunday of the Canaanite Woman

Tone 7

Epistle- 1 Tim 1:15-17
Gospel- Matt 15:21-28

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Mon 1/30- The Three Hierarchs (Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom
Thurs 2/2- Meeting of Christ in the Temple
Fri 2/10- Holy Martyr Haralambos
Sun 2/12- Start of Triodion
Mon 3/6- Great Lent Begins

January 22, 2006- 31st Sunday After Pentecost, Apostle Timothy

2006-01-22T12:22:00.000-08:00

31st Sunday After Pentecost, Apostle Timothy

Tone 6

Epistle- 1 Tim 1:15-17
Gospel- Luke 18: 35-43

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Wed 1/25- Gregory the Theologian
Mon 1/30- The Three Hierarchs (Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom
Thurs 2/2- Meeting of Christ in the Temple
Fri 2/10- Holy Martyr Haralambos
Sun 2/12- Start of Triodion

Welcome to our Newest Parish

2006-01-15T16:17:00.000-08:00

The staff of Acquiring the Spirit would like to join our diocese in welcoming our newest parish from Jacksonville, Florida.

January 15, 2006- 30th Sunday After Pentecost

2006-01-15T16:13:00.000-08:00

30th Sunday After Pentecost

Tone 5

Epistle- Col 3:12-16
Gospel- Matt 22: 1-14

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Tues 1/17- St. Anthony the Great
Wed 1/18- Sts Athanasius and Cyril
Fri 1/20- Euthymius the Great
Wed 1/25- Gregory the Theologian
Mon 1/30- The Three Hierarchs (Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom

January 8, 2006- Sunday After Holy Theophany

2006-01-08T15:50:00.000-08:00

Sunday After Holy Theophany

Tone 4

Epistle- Eph 4:7-13
Gospel- Matt 4: 12-17

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Sat 1/14- Food Pantry, St. Seraphim's, High Point
Sat 1/14- St Sava of Serbia
Tues 1/17- St. Anthony the Great
Wed 1/18- Sts Athanasius and Cyril
Fri 1/20- Euthymius the Great

January 6, 2006- Holy Theophany

2006-01-06T05:51:00.000-08:00

Holy Theophany

Tone 3

Epistle- Titus 2:11-14, 3:4-7
Gospel- Matt 3:13-17

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Fri 1/6- Holy Theophany * (See Below)
Sat 1/7- Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
Sat 1/14- Food Pantry, St. Seraphim's, High Point
Sat 1/14- St Sava of Serbia
Tues 1/17- St. Anthony the Great

*Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) for 1/6Holy Theophany Service, Blessing of Holy Water 7pm

January 2, 2006- Civil New Year Observed

2006-01-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

Christmas

9th Day of Christmas, Civil New Year Observed

Tone 3

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Fri 1/6- Holy Theophany * (See Below)
Sat 1/7- Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
Sat 1/14- Food Pantry, St. Seraphim's, High Point
Sat 1/14- St Sava of Serbia
Tues 1/17- St. Anthony the Great

**Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) for 1/6

Holy Theophany Service, Blessing of Holy Water 7pm

January 1, 2006- Sunday Before Holy Theophany, Circumcision of Christ

2006-01-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas

Sunday Before Holy Theophany, 8th Day of Christmas, Circumcision of Christ, St Basil the Great, Civil New Year

Tone 3

Epistle- Col 2:8-12
Gospel- Luke 2:20-21, 40-52

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocesan Events

Fri 1/6- Holy Theophany ** (See Below)
Sat 1/7- Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
Sat 1/14- Food Pantry, St. Seraphim's, High Point
Sat 1/14- St Sava of Serbia
Tues 1/17- St. Anthony the Great

**Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) for 1/6

NOTE: Due to Bishop Michael's illness, the Holy Theophany Service may have to be rescheduled. Stay tuned to this website for details as they become available.

Holy Theophany Service, Blessing of Holy Water 7pm

December 27- First Martyr Steven

2005-12-26T17:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas

First Martyr Steven, 3rd Day of Christmas

Tone 2

Epistle- Acts 6:8-15, 7:1-5, 47-60
Gospel- Matt 21:33-42

Upcoming Holy Days

Sun 1/1- Circumcision of Christ, St. Basil the Great, Civil New Year
Fri 1/6- Holy Theophany ** (See Below)
Saturday 1/7- Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
Saturday 1/14- St Sava of Serbia
Tues 1/17- St. Anthony the Great

**Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) for 1/6

Holy Theophany Service, Blessing of Holy Water 7pm

Editorial Commentary- Did I have a Good Christmas?

2005-12-25T15:35:00.000-08:00

Did I Have a Good Christmas?

It is December 26th and once again I have been the recipient of the typical deluge of “Did you have a good Christmas” questions.

It’s not that I object to the honest inquiries and concerns of well meaning people, but how can I honestly answer their question when Christmas is not over yet. None of these people would ask a baseball player if he had a good game after only one inning. They wouldn’t ask a college student to summarize his college education less than one semester into his freshman year. Would they rate a work of art before the artist has completed the work? Would they start moving into a new house before the construction is completed?

Well you may ask, isn’t Christmas over? That’s what our materialistic and secular society is telling us. After all won’t we have the After-Christmas sales beginning on December 26th? Didn’t we all go back to work on Monday the 26th?

Sadly too many feel this way. Two thirds of the Christmas lights in our neighborhoods that were on a week ago will not burn past December 25th and many decorations and Christmas trees are already being taken down. Those that are still up will most likely be gone on or before the week is over.

The sad fact is that the observance of Christmas has been corrupted by our materialistic and retail driven culture. Children (and some adults) probably think the twelve days of Christmas are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and the five shopping weekends before Christmas.

The truth is that Christmas is not over, and will not be over until the observance of Holy Theophany on the 6th of January. Consider that the reason for the celebration of Christmas is the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas has a set place, time, and length on the liturgical calendar of the Christian Church. While there are many secular symbols and traditions associated with the Christmas season, Christmas is a religious observance. The scheduling of Christmas is not in the hands of the retailers. It is not dictated by your employer. Yes they may have an after-Christmas sale on December 26th, but no one is forcing you to go. Yes it may be business as usual in your place of employment, but that doesn’t mean that at close of business you cannot cast away the business day and set your mind on a full day of Christmas afterwards. And remember that your priority during this season (like it should be all year round) is God and church first, family second, and then and only then other things like your job and recreational activities.

The news reports this year have been filled with reports of outrage over attempts by those who would remove Christ from Christmas. And I share their concerns. But many of these same people would throw away eleven of the twelve days of Christmas. By jettisoning this religious liturgical Christmas season, are they not doing in some part what they are rightly accusing the others of doing? Are they not removing a large part of the religious significance of Christmas?

Perhaps we need to also look at ourselves and make sure we are not falling down on the job on this issue too. After all we can’t expect people to know the truth if no one tells them and that’s our job. Let’s make sure we are not coming across as “do as I say, not as I do”.

So keep those decorations up and don’t take them down until January 7th (or more practically the weekend after). Keep those Christmas songs playing, they may not be on the radio anymore but that’s what CD and MP3 players are for. Attend those church services at your parish unless you are ill. Observe the full Christmas season, and receive the full blessing from doing so.

So to answer that question, I am having a good Christmas. If you wish to know if I had a good Christmas, then by all means ask me on January 7th. I’ll be more than happy to share my Christmas holiday and its joys with you.

December 26, 2005- Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos

2005-12-25T13:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas

Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos, 2nd Day of Christmas, Christmas Day Observed-Civil calendar

Tone 2

Epistle- Heb 2:11-18
Gospel- Matt 2:13-23

Tues 12/27- First Martyr Stephen
Sun 1/1- Circumcision of Christ, St. Basil the Great, Civil New Year
Fri 1/6- Holy Theophany ** (See Below)
Saturday 1/7- Synaxis of St. John the Baptist
Saturday 1/14- St Sava of Serbia

**Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) for 1/6

Holy Theophany Service, Blessing of Holy Water 7pm

December 25, 2005- Nativity of Christ

2005-12-24T08:30:00.000-08:00

Christmas

Nativity of Christ/Christmas Day

Tone 2

Epistle- Gal 4:4-7
Gospel- Matt 2:1-12

Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) on 12/24

Christmas Service and Divine Liturgy 11:30pm

NOTE: No Divine Liturgy at 11am on Sunday 12/25 since service will have been held at midnight.

Mon 12/26- Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos
Tues 12/27- First Martyr Stephen
Sun 1/1- Circumcision of Christ, St. Basil the Great, Civil New Year
Fri 1/6- Holy Theophany ** (See Below)
Saturday 1/7- Synaxis of St. John the Baptist

** Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point)

Holy Theophany Service, Blessing of Holy Water 7pm

December 24. 2005- Nativity Vigil/Christmas Eve

2005-12-23T18:45:00.000-08:00

Nativity Lent/Advent

Nativity Vigil/Christmas Eve

Tone 1

Epistle- Heb 1:1-12
Gospel- Luke 2:1-20

Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) on 12/24

Christmas Service and Divine Liturgy 11:30pm

NOTE: No Divine Liturgy at 11am on Sunday 12/25 since service will have been held at midnight.

December 18, 2005- Sunday Before Nativity

2005-12-18T13:35:00.000-08:00

Nativity Lent/Advent

Sunday Before Nativity

Tone 1

Epistle- Heb 11:9-10, 17-23
Gospel- Matt 1:1-25

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Sat 12/24- Nativity Vigil/Christmas Eve* (See Below)
Sun 12/25- Nativity of Christ/Christmas
Mon 12/26- Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos
Tues 12/27- First Martyr Stephen
Sun 1/1- Circumcision of Christ, St. Basil the Great, Civil New Year

* Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) on 12/24

Christmas Service and Divine Liturgy 11:30pm

NOTE: No Divine Liturgy at 11am on Sunday 12/25 since service will have been held at midnight.

December 11, 2005- 25th Sunday After Pentecost, Sunday of the Forefathers

2005-12-11T13:55:00.000-08:00

Nativity Lent/Advent

Sunday of the Forefathers

Tone 8

Epistle- Col 3:4-11
Gospel- Luke 14:16-24

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Mon 12/12- St. Spyridon, Wonderworker
Sat 12/24- Nativity Vigil/Christmas Eve** (See Below)
Sun 12/25- Nativity of Christ/Christmas
Mon 12/26- Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos
Tues 12/27- First Martyr Stephen

** Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) on 12/24

Christmas Service and Divine Liturgy 11:30pm

NOTE: No Divine Liturgy at 11am on Sunday 12/25 since service will have been held at midnight.

December 6, 2005- St. Nicholas of Myra

2005-12-04T14:30:00.000-08:00

Tone 7

Epistle- Heb 13:17-21
Gospel- Luke 6:17-23

Vespers and Healing Service 7pm (St. Seraphim's, High Point)

THE REAL SAINT NICHOLAS:

I thought you might like to know who the real "Santa Claus" is. Our children are often done a disservice by associating Saint Nicholas with receiving anonymous gifts on Christmas morning, while never knowing whom the real Saint Nicholas was. The mythical "Santa Claus" from the "Night before Christmas" while it's become an American tradition, is hardly factual.

Above, you will see an Icon of St. Nicholas. St. Nicholas was an Archbishop of Myra in Lycia in the fourth century, and yes, he did deliver gifts in the night as I will explain later. St. Nicholas was extremely generous, especially to needy children. In the Icon shown above you will see St. Nicholas wearing a Bishop's vestments, holding a Gospel Book. His right hand is shown in the "Ionic Blessing" posture, which is used to this day in the Eastern Orthodox Christian Church when the Priest or Bishop blesses the congregation. The Priest or Bishop holds their right hand so that it forms the Greek letters IC, which stand for "Isous" "Christos", or in English, Jesus Christ. On this Icon, to the right you see Jesus Christ holding a Gospel Book , and on the left, you see the Virgin Mary holding a Bishop's Omophore. You will notice the Omophore as the white cloth with crosses on it draped across his shoulders and over his left arm.

The reason Jesus and Mary are depicted on this Icon is to teach the people about how he was re-instated as Bishop after he was temporarily deposed after striking a Bishop named Arius at the first Ecumenical Council. Arius was trying to introduce a heresy to the teachings of the Church which denied the Divinity of Jesus Christ. St. Nicholas who strongly supported the Divinity of Jesus Christ was provoked to anger by Arius' false claims. The Council disapproved of St. Nicholas' actions and expelled him from his station as Bishop. That evening several of the members of the Council had this vision: They saw Jesus Christ handing St. Nicholas a Gospel Book, and the Virgin Mary placing an Omophore on him. When a Bishop is consecrated in the Eastern Orthodox Church he is given a Gospel book, and an Omophore is placed on him. This vision clearly communicated to the Council members that Jesus Christ wanted St. Nicholas to remain a Bishop in His Holy Church. They re-instated St. Nicholas as Bishop immediately the very next day. The heretic Arius was expelled from the Council and the Divinity of Jesus Christ was affirmed.

St. Nicholas started out as a monk at the Monastery of New Zion which was founded by his uncle. St. Nicholas originally wanted to live a life of solitude devoted exclusively to Jesus Christ. This is most likely where the seclusion at the North Pole came from in the modern "Santa Claus". Jesus Christ appeared to St. Nicholas in a vision and told him that he must work among the people instead of secluding himself if he wanted to receive a crown in Heaven. St. Nicholas obeyed Jesus Christ and went our into the world to work as a Priest, and eventually as a Bishop.

The legend of "Santa Claus" delivering gifts to children at night who were sound asleep comes from the real St. Nicholas' method of doing good deeds as Christ tells us in secret. There was a very poor gentleman in the town that St. Nicholas lived in that had daughters. This family was so poor and deeply in debt that the father decided to sell his three daughters into prostitution. St. Nicholas was so deeply hurt by this man's decision he immediately began to think of ways he could help him without him every knowing about it. St. Nicholas wanted his assistance to be totally anonymous as Jesus Christ taught, so he decided to wait until evening when everyone was asleep, then he would quickly walk by the home of this family and toss a bag of gold through an open window.

After the first sack of gold, the man decided to give his daughter to marriage and used the gold as a dowry. St. Nicholas after learning of this started preparing another sack of gold, and delivered it in the same manner to the family. The father then was able to give his second daughter in marriage and provide a dowry for her as well. The third time that St. Nicholas delivered a bag of gold to the home, the father heard the clink of the gold and ran after St. Nicholas, when he caught up with him he fell at his feet and thanked him for saving his daughters from the evils of prostitution.

Once when there was a great famine in the land of Lycia. St. Nicholas, feeling pity for the unfortunate people who were perishing from hunger, appeared in a dream to a merchant who happened to be in Italy. This merchant has loaded his entire ship with grain and intended to sail to another land. In the dream St. Nicholas promised the merchant three gold coins if he would sail to Myra and sell his grain there. When the merchant woke up, the three coins that St. Nicholas promised him in the dream were in his hand. The merchant decided to sail to Myra and sold the grain to the people, halting the famine.

St. Nicholas was always remembered as a humble, meek and forgiving man. His clothing was simple, he only ate one meal per day, and to orphans he was a father and provider. He often wept for the people he loved and cared for. Truly St. Nicholas was a loving and caring servant of God. I've always been distressed that someone that lived the principles that Jesus Christ taught would be made into such a materialistic being.

It's okay for children to have the experience of "Santa Claus"; however, when they're old enough, they should be taught about the real St. Nicholas and how he loved to give anonymously to the poor and needy. We need to teach our children the value of giving instead of expecting more and more. By allowing our children to grow up materialistic instead of philanthropic, we're not really teaching them the true meaning of Christmas!

St. Nicholas knew the true meaning of Christmas - He gave generously to others of himself, expecting nothing in return! He lived the message that the birth of Christ offered us: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward mankind!" May Jesus Christ touch your hearts in a special way this Christmas. May His Holy Birth remind you of the precious gift God gave us - His Only-Begotten Son, Jesus Christ.

December 4, 2005- 24th Sunday After Pentecost

2005-12-03T16:11:00.000-08:00

Nativity Lent/Advent

Tone 7

Epistle- Eph 2:14-22
Gospel- Luke 17:12-19

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Tues 12/6- St Nicholas Archbishop of Myra * (See Below)
Fri 12/9- Conception of the Holy Theotokos by Rightous Anna
Sat 12/24- Nativity Vigil/Christmas Eve** (See Below)
Sun 12/25- Nativity of Christ/Christmas
Mon 12/26- Synaxis of the Holy Theotokos

*Special Events at St. Seraphim's (High Point) on Dec 6

Vespers and Healing Service for the Feast of St. Nicholas 7pm
13th Anniversary of founding of St. Seraphim's (High Point)
13th Anniversary of the ordination of Bishop Michael to the Priesthood

** Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point) on 12/24

Christmas Service and Divine Liturgy 11:30pm

NOTE: No Divine Liturgy at 11am on Sunday 12/25 since service will have been held at midnight.

Oct 27, 2005-23rd Sunday After Pentecost

2005-11-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

Nativity Fast/Advent

Tone 6

Epistle- Eph 2:4-10
Gospel- Luke 13:10-17

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Wed 11/30- Apostle Andrew, First Called
Tues 12/6- St Nicholas Archbishop of Myra * (See Below)
Fri 12/9- Conception of the Holy Theotokos by Rightous Anna
Sat 12/24- Nativity Vigil/Christmas Eve** (See Below)
Sun 12/25- Nativity of Christ/Christmas

*Special Events at St. Seraphim's (High Point) on Dec 6

Vespers and Healing Service for the Feast of St. Nicholas 7pm
13th Anniversary of founding of St. Seraphim's (High Point)
13th Anniversary of the ordination of Bishop Michael to the Priesthood

** Service Schedule for St. Seraphim's (High Point)

12/24 Christmas Service and Divine Liturgy 11:30pm

NOTE: No Divine Liturgy at 11am on Sunday 12/25 since service will have been held at midnight.

Editor’s Commentary: Time to Reclaim Thanksgiving

2005-11-22T11:13:00.000-08:00

If you chose to read this article hoping to find someone lamenting what you feel is an early start to Christmas, you are going to be disappointed. My Christmas decorations have been up since last Thursday and I have been listening to Christmas music for over a week now.

What I wanted to comment about is what has happened to our Thanksgiving weekend and how our modern society and the merchants have destroyed it.

When I think back on the Thanksgiving weekends of my childhood, I recall a weekend of both spiritual significance and fun. On Thanksgiving Day, we gathered for the traditional meal. In the morning, we watched parades and in the afternoon, we watched cartoons and scary stories (I remember that the Legend of Sleepy Hollow was on every Thanksgiving afternoon. To this day Thanksgiving is not right if there is no scary element to it). On Friday and Saturday, we relaxed, enjoyed family and friends, played ball outdoors (weather permitting) and listened to Christmas music. It was a fun and relaxing weekend, away from the stresses of work and school.

Skip ahead to today. Thanksgiving has been turned into Turkey Day. The goal is now to gorge yourself silly on food, watch football, and turn in early to sleep it off.

Friday is even worse. Instead of being thankful and enjoying the company of family, Friday has become all about a dash to the mall and department stores. Grown adults end up literally coming to blows as they fight over toys and other hot and hard to find items. People have actually been trampled and killed in the stampedes of people who just cannot wait in a civilized manner to get to the stores.

This is pathetic, disgraceful, and something has to be done.

You might ask, “What can one person do?” The answer is simple.

Between now and Wednesday, buy your groceries, gas up the car, and do whatever shopping you might require until Monday.

Friday and Saturday- STAY HOME! Do not participate in this consumer nightmare. Enjoy your family; catch up on some reading, do some Bible study, whatever you like just stay away from the stores.

Yes, you will miss those after Thanksgiving bargains. Yes, you might not be able to get that hard-to-find item. However, the peace of mind you will gain more than makes up for it. Besides, chances are that come January or February there will be an overabundance of those hard to find items, at a lower price.

It is time to send a message to the merchants. Thanksgiving is a time for just that: THANKSGIVING. It is NOT about bargains, it is NOT about sales, and it is NOT about making money. The only way the merchants will get this message is if you stay home and refuse to participate in the buying frenzy.

And of course, on Sunday attend services at your parish

THE PRESENTATION OF THE VIRGIN MARY TO THE TEMPLE

2005-11-22T04:44:00.000-08:00

THE PRESENTATION OF THE VIRGIN MARY TO THE TEMPLE

By the Most Reverend Bishop Michael D. Jordan

"Today the living temple, the temple of the Great King, enters the Temple, to prepare a Divine Abode. Wherefore, O ye nations, rejoice."

During the final prayer of the Divine Liturgy the Priest commemorates the parents of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary): Joachim and Anna. They were devout people who loved God, and were faithful believers. To her dismay, Anna was barren, and prayed often to God for the high honor of becoming a mother. Anna promised God that she would pledge her child to His Holy Temple if He would bless her with a child. Many years passed, Anna never lost her faith and hope that God would answer her prayers. At last God granted her request! Anna became the mother of a little girl, whom she named Mary.

In accordance with the tradition of the times, Mary was presented to the Temple of God as soon as she reached the age of three. Joachim and Anna brought her to the priests of the Temple, where she remained for twelve years, or until the age of fifteen. Mary was presented to the Temple on November 21st.

According to the writings of the Fathers of the Church, the Virgin Mary was received into the Temple by Zacharias, the High Priest, who later became the father of John the Baptist, the Forerunner that prepared the way for Jesus Christ. John the Baptist was also born of previously barren parents.

During the time of the Blessed Virgin Mary, all of the children who were dedicated to the Temple were taken by the holy men of the Temple and given the finest education possible. The education of the children was conducted over a period of twelve years, following the education, the children were returned to their homes. Consequently, St. Joachim and Anna are considered the "Patron Saints of Pious Education".

Can you imagine being blessed with a child after being childless for many years, then at the age of three, dedicating your child to live in the Temple for twelve years? Can you imagine the faith in God that led Anna to dedicate her daughter to God so completely and willingly? It was a sacrifice of faith in God. You would think that a mother that gave birth to a child after being barren for so long, would be selfish and cling to the child. Anna; however, fulfilled her promise to God.

We sing a Troparion for the Preparation for the Presentation that beautifully puts into words the fulfillment of Anna's promise to God: "Now does Anna proceed and bequeath to all joy instead of sorrow. By giving forth the fruit, the only Ever-Virgin, whom she offered in the Temple of the Lord. Fulfilling her vow, being verily the temple of the Word, and an undefiled Mother. "

Anna's profound act of unselfishness, paved the way to the ultimate unselfish Sacrifice of Jesus Christ for all mankind. The sacrifice of Anna and the benefits of it are sung at the Vespers Service for the Presentation of the Theotokos into the Temple in a hymn called the Prosomia:
"Verily, the blameless Saint entered by the Holy Spirit to dwell in the Holy of Holies and to be nourished by the Angel, who in truth shall be a most holy temple for our Holy God. He it is Who by dwelling in her has sanctified all creation and deified the perishing nature of man.

Today the young maidens come forth joyfully, carrying their lamps before the holy torch, and in a noble manner take her into the Holy of Holies, going before and foretelling the ineffable Ray which shall shine forth from her, lighting in the spirit those who sit in the darkness of folly.
With joy the all-extolled Anna cried to Zachariah, saying, receive thou her of whom the Prophets of God did preach in the Spirit. Take her into the Holy Temple to be brought up in purity, that she may become a divine throne to the Lord of all, a palace, a couch, and a shining abode."

Shortly after being returned to her parents, Mary received a visitation from the Archangel Gabriel informing her that she would give birth to the Son of God. Anna, through faith in God did not withhold her child from God, and likewise, God did not withhold His Only-Begotten Son from us.

We have in Joachim and Anna examples of faith and unselfishness. We have in them also examples of being rich toward God. In the Gospel account of St. Luke, Chapter 12:16-21, we read of a rich man who had many goods. This rich man decided to pull down his barns and build even larger ones to hold all of his earthly treasures. God said to him, you are a fool, for tonight your soul will be required of you, and whose treasures will they become. "So it is with he who lays up treasures for himself, and is not rich toward God."

How can we be rich toward God? You might ask! Joachim and Anna were rich toward God, and look at the results of their actions. What God means by being rich toward God, is to have faith in Him, to trust Him, to Love Him, and to place Him first in your life.

Many people tend to think that security comes from money; however, money is a perishable commodity. You can store all the money you could ever want in bank accounts, but should your soul be required of you; as the Gospel account we have just learned about, it will be of no value to you. Security comes from God, and God only! It is God Who formed the universe from nothingness, and when all of our material things have faded into distant memories, God will still remain, unchanged and steadfast. It was God Who formed you; it's God Who breathed the breath of life into you. It was God Who gave His Only-Begotten Son to die on the Cross so we might become rich toward God. He has given us all the tools we need to glorify Him and become rich toward Him, yet many decide to put their trust in worldly treasures.

To be rich toward God is to understand that the only riches that are worthy of pursuit are the ones that bear spiritual fruit. The Presentation of the Theotokos into the Temple is a reminder that personal sacrifices for God can accomplish great and wonderful things.

A PRAYER FOR SPIRITUAL UNDERSTANDING

By: The Most Reverend Bishop Michael D. Jordan

Almighty God, Who through Your Holy Voice have spoken to Moses, Noah, and John the Baptist.

Almighty God, Who sent into the world Your Only-Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, God the Word.

Almighty God, Who with Your powerful, Holy Voice declared Jesus Christ as Your Son, in Whom You are well pleased, at His Baptism in the River Jordan.

Do Thou, the same God, make Your Voice known to us, that we may hear with Spiritual ears, the Holy Wisdom which only You can impart to us.

Do Thou, the same God, abide in us, strengthen us, forgive us, and help each of us to be truly grateful to You, our fountain of wisdom, and source of every good and perfect gift.

Guide us, guard us, direct our lives that we may live them in such a way that leads to our eternal salvation through Your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, God, and Savior.

Amen.

November 21, 2005- Entry of the Mother of God in the Temple

2005-11-21T16:01:00.000-08:00

Tone 5

Epistle- Heb 9:1-7
Gospel- Luke 10:38-42, 11:27-28

Today the Church observes the Entry of the Mother of God in the Temple. Three year old Mary was given to the temple by her parents and spent the next twelve years being educated there retuning home at the age of fifteen.

The unselfishness of Mary's parents is a prelude to Mary's unselfish act of being the mother of our Savior Jesus Christ.

November 20, 2005-22rd Sunday After Pentecost

2005-11-20T15:36:00.000-08:00

Nativity Fast/Advent

Tone 5

Epistle- Gal 6:11-18
Gospel- Luke 12:16-21

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Mon 11/21- Entry of the Mother of God in the Temple
Thurs 11/24-Sun 11/27- Thanksgiving Day and Weekend
Wed 11/30- Apostle Andrew, First Called
Tues 12/6- St Nicholas Archbishop of Myra
Vespers and Healing Service, St. Seraphim's (High Point)
13th Anniversary of founding of St. Seraphim's (High Point)
13th Anniversary of the ordination of Bishop Michael to the Priesthood
Fri 12/9- Conception of the Holy Theotokos by Rightous Anna

November 13, 2005- 21st Sunday After Pentecost. St John Chryostomstom, Archbishop of Constantinople

2005-11-14T06:59:00.000-08:00

St John Chryostomstom, Archbishop of Constantinople

Tone 4

Epistle- Gal 2:16-20
Gospel- Luke 10:25-37

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Mon 11/14- Apostle Phillip
Tues 11/15- Nativity Fast/Advent Begins
Wed 11/16- Apostle/Evangelist Matthew
Mon 11/21- Entry of the Mother of God in the Temple
Thurs 11/24-Sun 11/27- Thanksgiving Day and Weekend

November 8, 2005- Synaxis of Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and all Heavenly Hosts

2005-11-08T17:13:00.000-08:00

Today the Orthodox Church observes the Synaxis of Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and all Heavenly hosts.

As you cast your votes in today's election, please do not forget the observance of this day.

Tone 3

Scripture Readings

Epistle- Hebrews 2:2-10
Gospel- Luke 10:16-21

November 6, 2005- 20th Sunday After Pentecost

2005-11-06T15:53:00.000-08:00

Tone 3

Epistle- Gal 1:11-19
Gospel- Luke 8:41-56

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Tues 11/8- Synaxis Archangels Michael Gabriel and all Heavenly Hosts
Sat 11/12- Food Bank (St. Seraphim's, High Point)
Sun 11/13- St John Chryostomstom, Archbishop of Constantinople
Tues 11/15- Nativity Fast/Advent Begins
Wed 11/16- Apostle/Evangelist Matthew

October 30, 2005-19th Sunday After Pentecost

2005-10-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Tone 2

Epistle- 2 Cor 11:31-12:9
Gospel- Luke 8:26-29

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Tues 11/8- Synaxis Archangels Michael Gabriel and all Heavenly Hosts
Sat 11/12- Food Bank (St. Seraphim's, High Point)
Sun 11/13- St John Chryostomstom, Archbishop of Constantinople
Tues 11/15- Nativity Fast/Advent Begins
Wed 11/16- Apostle/Evangelist Matthew

October 23, 2005- 18th Sunday After Pentecost

2005-10-23T15:45:00.000-07:00

Tone 1

Epistle- 2 Cor 9:6-11
Gospel- Luke 16:19-31

Upcoming Holy Days and Diocese Events

Wed 10/26- Grt Martyr Demetrius
Tues 11/8- Synaxis Archangels Michael Gabriel and all Heavenly Hosts
Sat 11/12- Food Bank (St. Seraphim's, High Point)
Sun 11/13- St John Chryostomstom, Archbishop of Constantinople
Tues 11/15- Nativity Fast/Advent Begins

October 9, 2005-16th Sunday After Pentecost

2005-10-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

Tone 7

Epistle: 2 Cor 6:1-10
Gospel: Luke 7:11-16

Scripture Readings for the 17th Week After Pentecost

Monday: Eph 1:22-2:3, Luke 7:36-50
Tuesday: Eph 2:19-3:7, Luke 8:1-3
Wednesday: Eph 3:8-21, Luke 8:22-25
Thursday: Eph 4:14-19, Luke 9:7-11
Friday: Eph 4:17-25, Luke 9:12-18
Saturday: 1 Cor 14:20-25, Luke 6:1-10

Next Sunday: Seventeenth Sunday After Pentecost

Tone 8

Epistle: 2 Cor 6:16-7:1
Gospel: Luke 8:5-15

Outreach to the Disabled Celebrates One Year

2005-10-04T04:58:00.000-07:00

HIGH POINT, NC- Reaching out to those in need has always been a mission of St. Seraphim’s. As part of that mission a new outreach ministry to people with disabilities in our area was launched last October. This ministry was created in partnership with Kapabilities, a 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization in the Eden area.

The group meets on a bimonthly basis on the second Saturday of the month. The most recent activity was an ice cream social in August which was enjoyed by all. On October 8th the group will have a Fall/Halloween party, a short program, reflections on the past years accomplishments, and planning for the upcoming year.

Regular activities of the Kapabilities organization include a support group, recreational activities, information on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and general assistance with questions and issues concerning the disabilities.

Kapabilities ® has been in existence since September of 2000. Kapabilities ® regularly operates informational booths on the ADA at local job fairs, conducts sessions and seminars on the ADA, and conducts private employment coaching to individuals informing them of their rights on employment issues and approaching the interview process. Kapabilities ® of High Point invites any and all with disabilities, their family members and caretakers, and anyone interested in ADA advocacy to become involved.

For more information leave a comment or contact the Church via the website.

Oct 2, 2005: Fifteenth Sunday After Pentecost

2005-10-02T14:33:00.000-07:00

Tone 6

Epistle: 2 Cor 4:6-15
Gospel luke 6:31-35

Scripture Readings for the 16th Week After Pentecost

Monday: Gal 4:28-5:10, Luke 6:24-30
Tuesday: Gal 5: 11-21, Luke 6:37-45
Wednesday: Gal 6:2-10, Luke:6:46-7:1
Thursday: Eph 1:1-9, Luke 7:17-30
Friday: Eph 1:7-17, Luke 7:31-35
Saturday: 1 Cor 10:23-28, Luke 5:27-32

Next Sunday: Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost

Tone 7

Epistle: 2 Cor 6:1-10
Gospel: Luke 7:11-16

Oct 1st: Feast of the Protection of the Theotokos

2005-10-01T06:44:00.000-07:00

Epistle: Hebrew 9:1-7
Gospel: Luke 10:38-42, 11:27-28

Today we commemerate the Feast of the Protection of the Theotokos.

We remember the appearance of the Virgin Mary at the Church of Blachernae in the city of Constantiople in the first part of the sixth century. The Theotokos appeared above the crowd of faithful gathered and spread her veil over them assuring them of her protection and love.

The Orthodox Church remembers this event on its annual liturgical calendar. Churches built in honor of this miraculous event began appearing in Russia in the 12th century.

"Remember us in thy prayers, O Lady Virgin Theotokos, that we perish not by the increase of our sins. Protect us from every evil and from grievous woes. For in thee do we hope, and, venerating the feast of thy Protection, thee do we magnify".

Orthodoxy 101

2005-09-30T10:06:00.000-07:00

Just what is the Orthodox Church? Some have called it the best kept secret in Christianity. In spite of being the church that can be traced to the Apostles and the second largest Christian organization in the world, most people have never heard of it, think it is part of the Roman Catholic Church, or think it is another religion entirely

The Eastern Orthodox Christian Faith is so full and rich that it is very difficult to explain briefly! This series of articles can only scratch the surface of a Faith that is so powerful, life giving, and life changing. Our prayer is that while reading this overview; the Holy Spirit will bear witness in your heart to the truth that is contained here. The word "Orthodox", means "Correct Glory"; and may the pure message of Orthodox Christianity glorify the Risen Lord Jesus Christ, our God, and Savior now and ever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.

"Eastern Orthodox Christianity - Telling the truth since 33 AD"

The Eastern Orthodox Christian Church is the "Mother Church" of Christianity. We can trace
our Bishops all the way back to the Twelve Disciples of Jesus Christ. The birthday of the Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church is 33 AD. We have remained in unity of belief since the day of Pentecost 33 AD. In the year 1054 AD, there was a great schism in the Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church. This division caused the One Church to be divided. The Roman Catholic Church, under the (Pope of Rome) began at this schism; and the Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church has remained on course and unchanged to this present day. Both the Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church and the Roman Catholic Church have Apostolic Succession, because until 1054 AD, we were the same Church. We (The Eastern Orthodox Catholic and Apostolic Church), are the original, "changeless" Church that Jesus Christ founded with His Disciples. Our purpose is to properly worship the Holy Trinity in spirit and in truth and to preserve our Eastern Orthodox Faith as a "pearl of great price" for all future generations, until the Glorious Second Coming of Jesus Christ, our Lord, God, and Savior.

WHAT DO WE STAND FOR?

Since our faithful need to know our position; we state, without reservation, that we stand for the Truth! We bear witness to the Faith once delivered to the Saints (St. Jude 3). Our Church strictly upholds the ancient Christian faith and we are a valid branch of the pure and unadulterated Early Orthodox Christian Church. We follow and teach everything that Christ and His Church taught in the Scriptures, in oral Tradition, in the Nicene Creed, in the Seven Ecumenical Councils and in the writings of the Church Fathers.

We are not exclusivists, we are not Gnostic in any sense of the word, and it is necessary for us to state that we have no "inside track" to the Truth. We have only the Truth revealed to us, through our Apostolic Succession and through Holy Traditions (including the Scriptures) in the Orthodox Church of the ages.

In future articles we will examine various aspects of the Orthodox Faith and attempt to answer questions that a newcomer or an inquirer might have.

In the meantime you can read more about Orthodoxy and our diocese (THEOCUS) by going to the following website: http://www.st-seraphim.com/creed_explain.htm

A Word From our Bishops

2005-09-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Let us first offer our sincere gratitude to the Lord that our prayers were heard and that the impact of hurricane Rita was not as bad as it could have been. More prayers are needed now for the many lives that have been impacted by the two hurricanes. Material property can always be replaced, buildings and cities can be rebuilt, but the most devastating of all is the loss of life that's occurred. The loss of loved ones will cause emotional pain long after everything has been rebuilt. Pray that those who have suffered the loss of loved ones will be filled with faith and comfort, knowing that their loved ones are safe, happy, and in the constant care of our loving God.

Food Pantry Feeds Local Hungry

2005-09-25T14:18:00.000-07:00

HIGH POINT, NC- St. Seraphim’s food pantry continues to be one of the parish’s most critical outreach programs, collecting food and distributing it to the needy. The ministry is a joint effort of St. Seraphim of Sarov Eastern Orthodox Christian Church and St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church.

On the second Saturday of each month parishioners from St. Seraphim’s and St Christopher’s pack and distribute the food. Thanks not only to those who pack and distribute the food, but those who do the shopping and logistics ahead of time and of course to any and all whose donations of food and finances make this ministry possible.

The food bank is an ongoing ministry and appreciates donations of non-perishable food and funds. See St. Seraphim’s website for more information on how you may participate in this outreach.

Welcome

2005-09-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Aquiring the Spirit, the new online newsletter of our diocese. It is my goal for this to be a place where our parishes can share news and events with each other and others.

If you have any questions or comments about a story, would like to know more about THEOCUS, or learn more about Orthodoxy, please feel free to leave a comment.

Thank You

Editor Nicholas