Christ the Conqueror of Hell: The Descent into Hades from an Orthodox Perspective By Archbishop Hilarion Alfeyev Published by St Vladimir’s Seminary (SVS) press, New York, 2009 In this scholarly book, Archbishop Hilarion addresses the origins of our understanding of Christ’s descent into Hades following His death on the Cross, compiling the writings of the New Testament, Church Fathers and the various liturgical texts that refer to this topic. “Christ the Conqueror of Hell” answers any questions an Orthodox Christian might have on this subject, drawing from teachings throughout Church history, starting with the Apostles and early Apocryphal literature, through [...]

Psalm 7: 1 «Κύριε ὁ Θεός μου, ἐπὶ σοὶ ἤλπισα· σῶσόν με ἐκ πάντων τῶν διωκόντων με καὶ ῤῦσαί με» “O LORD my God, in You I put my trust; save me from those who persecute me and deliver me” The first verse of this Psalm seems to be a very simple prayer: one that can be offered up to God by anyone. However, when this prayer is understood in its totality, we see it pre-supposes in the believer absolute trust in God’s providence. It is impossible to say to God: “in You have I put my trust”, when our [...]

On 30 June each year, the Church honours the Synaxis (a celebratory gathering) of the Twelve Holy Apostles. The commemoration of a Synaxis is commonly observed on the day following a major feast day. It recognises the participation of a Saint or a group of Saints in the major feast preceding the Synaxis. For example, the Church holds a Synaxis in honour of St John the Baptist on the day after the Theophany. The feast of the Synaxis of the Twelve Holy Apostles follows the feast of the pre-eminent apostles Peter and Paul (29 June). Each of the Twelve is [...]

Why doesn’t God destroy the devil? The devil does exist.  One of his many tricks is to fool us into believing he does not exist.  There are people in our community who make money out of fortune telling, sorcery, astrology, séances, and other satanic practices - it is very important that we keep well away from such things.  A much more common situation we all face is being tempted by the devil.  The temptation is not the sin; it is not our fault. But if we give in to it, if we allow that passion to remain in us, then [...]

Saint Macrina the Younger Celebrated on July 19th Saint Macrina the Younger was the granddaughter of Saint Macrina the Elder, and sister of St Basil the Great. Born in 327, she was the eldest of ten children. Macrina grew into a very beautiful woman, with many men asking for her hand in marriage. When she came of age, she was betrothed to a good man. However God took him before they were married, and Macrina then dedicated the rest of her life to Christ as a virgin. Macrina showed her love for Christ firstly through her unyielding service to her [...]