Guest Post: Dormition Fast, The Season of the Theotokos

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever! August 1 to August 15 marks another special season in the liturgical calendar of the Byzantine Church.  A season dedicated to preparing with prayer and penance a heart like our Blessed Mother, the Holy Theotokos.  We try to create a heart like Her’s because on August 15 the Theotokos …

Great Lent: Traditions of the East and West

Great Lent While there are several differences between the way Roman Catholics and Byzantine Catholics and Orthodox families celebrate Lent, the three pillars remain the same: prayer, alms, and fasting. The goal of this period is to repent and prepare for celebrating the Resurrection of Christ. It is a time to deepen our relationship with …