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Relevance of Monasticism in Orthodox Church - Part 1

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Monasticism holds profound relevance within the Orthodox Church, representing a timeless and essential aspect of its spiritual and communal life. This article will explore the significance of monasticism in the Orthodox tradition by examining its historical roots, its role in preserving and transmitting Orthodox spirituality, and its impact on the broader society. Pachomius the Great Monasticism originated in the Christian Church in the last decades of the second century and in the first decade of the third century AD. The desire to attain ‘perfection’ demanded by Jesus Christ (St. Matthew 5:48; 19:21), the end of tribulations, the spiritual lifestyle of Christians and their unique concepts about the world and worldliness attracted many people to monastic life. Monasticism originated in Egypt. St. Antonios (Antony the Great) is the founder and practitioner of solitary monasticism and St. Pachomios is the founder and practitioner of cenobitic (community) monasticism. He published monast...
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Unveiling Sacred Beginnings: The Spiritual Significance of Koodhosh Eetho Sunday

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A Glimpse into Ecclesiastical Tradition The Malankara Orthodox Church holds a rich tapestry of spiritual traditions that illuminate the depth of Christian faith. Among these cherished observances, the Sunday following October 30th stands out as a momentous occasion known as Koodhosh Eetho Sunday. This special day marks the profound beginning of the church calendar, inviting believers into a sacred journey of spiritual renewal and reflection. The calendar's commencement is not merely a temporal milestone but a deeply symbolic moment that reconnects the faithful with their spiritual roots. Moreover, this day represents a powerful reminder of the church's continuous cycle of worship and devotion, bridging the past with the present through time-honored traditions. The term "Koodhosh Eetho" translates to the "Sanctification of Church," carrying profound theological significance. In the Malankara Orthodox Church, this Sunday represents a pivotal moment of spiritua...
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Location: 17 Randolph Ave, Franklin Square, NY 11010, USA
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A Few Points to Ponder as We Enter the Great Lent

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A Few Points to Ponder as We Enter the Great Lent by Rev. Fr. Dr. Bijesh Philip There are many spiritual exercises which help us to grow in Christ. Holy sacraments, fasting and Lents, prayers, meditations, teaching and preaching in the church etc are preparing a ground for receiving grace from God for this spiritual growth. These spiritual exercises, especially fasting/Lent can be compared to the stone jars into which water was poured according to the instruction of our Lord at the wedding in Cana (St. John 2:7). By being in those stone jars, water could meet its creator and He in turn, could transform it to tasty wine. Though the stone jars prepared a ground for the transformation, the source of that change was God only. Likewise, we are supposed to be poured into Lent for being transformed by Divine Grace. It must be noted that the gospel reading at the time of entrance to the Great Lent is concerning Jesus turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana. Great Lent began in the anc...
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Honoring Sajith and Supporting the Family

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  In loving memory of Sajith P. Willson, who departed from this world on May 25, 2023. On May 23rd, 2023, Sajith attended his beloved mother's funeral (Thrissur, Kerala, India). The very next day, Sajith tragically met with a motor vehicle accident. He leaves behind his wife, Shine and children (Emma (12), Emily (8), Angel (7) & Abel (2). Sajith married Shine in 2009. He was a wonderful husband, father, son, brother, and friend who touched the lives around him.  Sajith earned his license to practice as a social worker (LMSW) in NYS. He worked at Lincoln Hospital (NYC HHC) in the Bronx. He was working at NYS office of Mental Health at Creedmoor Psychiatric Center and NYU Langone Health Hospital Long Island. Sajith was an active man who cared for and loved his family, friends, co-workers, and all those he met. He always welcomed those around him and could always be counted on to lend a helping hand. He was an active member of the St. Basil Orthodox Church (Franklin Square, N...
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Location: 17 Randolph Ave, Franklin Square, NY 11010, USA
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ST BASIL THE GREAT OF CAESAREA

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  Basil The Great of Caesarea, Our Patron Saint The three great lights who are so often referred to as the Three Cappadocians are Basil the Great of Caesarea, his friend Gregory of Nazianzus, and his own brother, Gregory of Nyssa. Basil the Great is the senior venerable member among them. He was the first ascetic leader of the Eastern (Greek) Church tradition. Also called Second Athanasius, he proved his personality not only in the ascetic movement but also in the realms of Church administration and theology. Basil was one among the ten children of a rich family of Caesarea in Cappadocia around AD 330. His father, Baselius, was known, as a scholar and eminent writer throughout Cappadocea. His mother Emmelia was the daughter of a martyr. Of the ten children in the family, three became bishops: Basil himself, made bishop of Caesarea in 370, Gregory, bishop of Nyssa, and Peter, bishop of Sebasty. The eldest sister Macarena became a nun and started a nunnery. As a student in Athens, ...
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Location: 17 Randolph Ave, Franklin Square, NY 11010, USA
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