Κατηγορία

Ξένες γλώσσες

«Ὑπαπαντή» and the service to a new mother as challenges for change (Dr. Anastasios Ioannides)

Κατηγορίες: In English

Participating in the services for the feast of «Ὑπαπαντή» (Presentation of the Infant Jesus in the Temple, February 2), a festival dating back to the 4th century, I bring to mind the texts by several Orthodox writers, who since the early 1960s have reported that they feel offended by the orthodox prayers read over a new mother, especially as regards to the concept of “cleansing” the new mother of her «ρύπος» (= dirt, stain, filth). They explain themselves by writing that they associate such prayers with a revival of Old Testament stipulations (in the book of Leviticus), which tend to underestimate the mother and all women. If «ρύπος» is scandalous, then our Orthodox services for the feast of «Ὑπαπαντή» may be ...

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He’ll call for you (Saint Dimitri of Rostov)

Κατηγορίες: In English

Don’t show off your good works, lest you receive your reward here on earth, from people who will praise you. Hide them in silence and let God alone see them, and He will reward you in heaven. If you keep silent about yourself, He’ll call for you. People will also learn of your good works from God Himself and will praise you. Saint Dimitri of Rostov

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