And the Angel cried to the Lady full of grace Rejoice! Rejoice! O pure Virgin! Again, I say rejoice! Thy son is risen from His three days in the tomb! With Himself He has raised all the dead. Rejoice, rejoice, O ye people! Shine! Shine! Shine, O new Jerusalem! The glory of the Lord has …
Tag: Lent
Liturgy of the Pre-Sanctified Gifts (one of those weird Orthodox services)
Last night was such a blessing. Helping my children light candles and pray for a loved one in the hospital. Seeing my son want to go up and kiss “Baby Jesus” (aka icon of grown up Jesus) twice. Mostly it was hearing and praying and chanting words that my spirit needs – words of confession, …
Lent Begins
Last night was Forgiveness Vespers at church. That officially marks the beginning of Lent for Orthodox Christians. Each person in the church asks every other person in the church for forgiveness, and gives forgiveness to each one! This was the first year that I didn’t cry, but I was definitely convicted – I’d had a …