Gospel Reading June 30th (Matthew 9:36-10:8) Feast of the Synaxis of the Twelve Apostles This Gospel passage concerns the first mission that Jesus entrusted to the Apostles during His public ministry. The term “Apostle” is of Greek origin and means “to be sent out”. At the outset, the passage describes the significance of the Apostles’ mission. The people of Israel were in a dire spiritual state. Despite having the Mosaic Law and the leadership of the Pharisees, they were like sheep with “no shepherd” (verse 36). Professor Trembelas[1], in his commentary on this passage, notes that we in fact know [...]

Christ, the Passover great and most Holy! O Wisdom, Word and Power of God! Grant that we may more perfectly partake of Thee in the day of Thy Kingdom which knows no night. (Orthodox Paschal Hymn).   Easter is the feast of real joy because it celebrates ‘Christ, the Passover’, our Saviour’s sacrifice and His Resurrection! These great events powerfully reveal God’s love for all humankind, and they have allowed us to hope in the miracle of eternal life. Such a life no longer ‘knows night’, since Christ’s sacrifice has decisively destroyed the power of death, darkness and decay. Easter [...]