By the Waters of Babylon
Each year before Great Lent, we sing the hymn “By the Waters of Babylon”. The text is from Psalms 136 (137). For years, I found the text to be confusing. It is a cry of lament, but at the end … Read More
Preparing for Lent
During the four weeks prior to Great Lent, the Church prepares us with several “pre-lenten” themes: repentance and humility, God’s mercy, judgment and salvation, and forgiveness. The pre-lenten Sundays prepare us for our “lenten journey.” They arm us with that … Read More
On Prayer and Repentance
Written by St. Ignatius Brianchaninov; Translated by Nun Cornelia (Rees) In today’s Gospel, the prayer of the publican is shown drawing God’s mercy to him. This prayer consisted of the following words: God be merciful to me a sinner (Lk. … Read More
Crispy Cajun Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are great for a weekday dinner, especially during the Nativity fast on fish days. I like to make these tacos with tilapia cut into small chunks. Any white fish would work. Make sure to cut the … Read More
Baking, Vegan-Style
As a baker, I want to make sure every baked good is delicious, has good consistency, and is baked properly. There are some obvious challenges when baking vegan foods. I’m sure many of us have experienced them first-hand, myself included. … Read More
Vegetable Barley Soup
This recipe uses a mirepoix base (2 part onion, 1 part carrot, 1 part celery). Use the recipe as a starting point. Mix up the quantity and variety of vegetables – just split them into “long-cooking” and “short-cooking”. Seasoning can … Read More
On the Nativity of Christ (St John of Kronstadt)
He has come upon earth, He Who in the beginning created us from earth and breathed His Divine breath into us; He has come Who “giveth to all life, and breath, and all things” (Acts 17:25.); He has come, … Read More
Orthodox Children’s Books for the Nativity Season
As a Godmother, I know that children soak up information when they are very young. With the world around us today, it is important for us to expose children to God and to immerse them in the life of the … Read More
Citrus Crusted White Fish
The sweetness from the orange and coconut oil enhance the taste of this simple fish dish. Use any white fish that you want (cod, flounder, halibut, pollock). … Read More
Baba’s Bean Soup
Wonderful, vegan, low-fat recipe from a beloved grandmother in our church.