堂课
The Divine Liturgy
The Orthodox Church is founded on worship of the Holy Trinity—the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
“The Father is the Decision-Maker, the Son is the One who materializes, and the Holy Spirit perfects all the works.” -St. Athansios the Great
The Divine Liturgy, which is celebrated daily in monasteries, is the main form of worship, during which we not only praise God, but also enter into His Kingdom though the reception of Holy Communion.
“I am the light of the world; he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” -John 8:12
“Taste and see that the Lord is good.”
– Psalm 33:9
“The essential act in the celebration of the Holy Mysteries is the transformation of the elements into the divine Body and Blood; its aim is the sanctification of the faithful, who through these Mysteries receive the remission of their sins and the inheritance of the Kingdom of Heaven.”
– Saint Nicholas Cavasilas, On The Divine Liturgy
Vespers & Orthros
“... in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
– Colossians 3:16
“Let my prayer be set forth as incense before Thee, the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice. Hearken unto me, O Lord.”
– Psalm 140:2
The Small Blessing of Waters
On the first day of the month, in keeping with to the Athonite tradition, the monks perform the Small Blessing of Waters Service.
The Small Blessing of Waters is typically held in one of the smaller chapels. The faithful may inquire when and in which chapel the service will be held.
“Therefore, we beseech Thee, send down upon us Thy blessing, and the gift of Thy Holy Spirit upon this water.”
– From the Service of the Small Blessing of Waters
Funerals & Memorial Services
“With the spirits of the righteous made perfect, give rest to the soul of Your servant, O Savior, and preserve it in that life of blessedness which is with You, O You Who love mankind.”
– Hymn for the Departed
Death is not the end of a person’s life, but rather the beginning of eternal life, either in God’s Heavenly Kingdom, or in the place apart from God, the place of darkness and torment. Reflecting on this encourages the monks to persevere in a life of repentance.
“Let us not lose time in vain. The Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who force themselves (Mt. 11:12). Bear in mind the departure of our souls, the final hour and moment of that difficult separation.”
– Geronda Ephraim
“Riches do not remain; glory does not accompany one to the other world; for when death strikes, it obliterates them all.”
– Orthodox Funeral Service