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The Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:5-15)   This parable is divided into three parts. The first part is the parable proper, showing how the seed is sown by the sower but requires a suitable environment to grow and yield a crop (v 5- 8). The second concerns the nature of parables, and explains why Christ spoke in parables (v 9 -10). The third is the explanation given by Christ to the Disciples of the initial parable (v 11-15). Looking at the parable, the seed is the word of God - the Gospel (v 11). The first fell along the [...]

How do we rejoice in the Lord always?   In his 4th Chapter to the Philippians, St Paul advises: "Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:4-7). Many decades ago this author’s spiritual father said to the faithful, "If a Christian is not happy, [...]

St Iakovos of Evia (Commemorated 22nd November)   St Iakovos Tsalikis was born in the village of Livisi, Asia Minor, in 1920. After the destruction of Smyrna by the Turks in 1922, and the forceful deportation of the Greeks, the Livisian refugees eventually settled in the small village of Farakla on the Greek island of Evia. Growing up in Farakla, St Iakovos attended primary school and became immersed in the life of the Church, where he would chant hymns and read prayers. His sanctity was evident from a young age and many of his fellow villagers would ask him to [...]

JOY and the Christian Person   In the previous issue of our periodical, we dealt with the topic of Friendship, and its importance for the growing child and adolescent. Whenever someone is with their friends they are filled with enthusiasm and joy. The faithful are characteristically people of Joy, as our Lord has said, “I will see you again, and your heart will Rejoice, and your Joy no one will take it from you”, and again, “Ask and you will receive, that your Joy may be full” (John 16:22, 24). The Apostle Paul commands in the same spirit, “Rejoice in [...]

Guardian of Our Souls and Bodies   Long ago, before the creation of mankind, an epic battle took place that shaped the course of the entire cosmos. The angels of God, led by Archangel Michael, fought against the dark forces of Satan. The Archangel addressed the heavenly host saying: “Let us stand well! Let us stand with fear!” All the angels then replied with one voice: “Holy! Holy! Holy! Lord God of Sabaoth! Heaven and earth are full of Your glory!” The outcome of this battle was the expulsion of Satan and his forces from heaven. As our Lord Jesus [...]