The Story Of A Homeless Man Who Looked Like Rasputin

I was 11 years old on Christmas day of 1995 and for most of 1996 I lived that 11th year enjoying one of the hottest summers. The 90's summers were very memorable as being the hottest in Ireland. However, that Christmas it had been particularly cold when my eldest sister took me to Belfast with … Continue reading The Story Of A Homeless Man Who Looked Like Rasputin →

Should The Orthodox And Catholic Laity Publicly Disagree With Their Spiritual Leaders?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tSYaN09hfHU As a Catholic considering a move to the Greek Orthodox Church, unlike many others I've no ill will against Pope Francis at all nor do I scorn the Ecumenical Patriarch. I think most people who know me understand quite clearly that I am one of Pope Francis biggest defenders against unwarranted attacks and is … Continue reading Should The Orthodox And Catholic Laity Publicly Disagree With Their Spiritual Leaders? →

What Does It Mean To Take The “Ancient Path?”

Photo By Stephen McElligott This is what the LORD says: “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.Jeremiah 6:16 Many Christians often quote this verse to justify their position that we should return to … Continue reading What Does It Mean To Take The “Ancient Path?” →

Nobody Has The Power To Upset You

For confusion arises within us, not from the nature of circumstances, but from the infirmity of our minds; for if we were thus affected by reason of what befalls us, then, (as we all sail the same sea, and it is impossible to escape waves and spray,) all men must needs be troubled; but if … Continue reading Nobody Has The Power To Upset You →

My Two Sons Reactions To Both Catholic And Orthodox Liturgy Surprise Me

Every week in the Catholic Church I couldn't enjoy the Mass or hear the readings or the homilies. The reason for this had been due to my two sons constantly twitching in the pews and hitting one another. Why? Boredom. They were bored and when I asked them why they'd be so bold at Mass … Continue reading My Two Sons Reactions To Both Catholic And Orthodox Liturgy Surprise Me →

The Blind Saint Who I Dreamed About Makes Another Appearance

An image of Saint Matrona beside me at Liturgy An original photograph of Saint Matrona of Moscow There's no need to introduce where this Saint is from as the secret is in the name. Saint Matrona was a blind mystic of the Russian Orthodox Church. We say blind with a sort of wink and a … Continue reading The Blind Saint Who I Dreamed About Makes Another Appearance →

The Saint Who Slept In An Armchair Instead Of A Bed

Saint John Of Shanghai Every now and again a Saint pops into my head. I take it as a sign that the particular Saint is reaching out to me. Yes, if you suddenly begin to think of a Saint, it's because they're trying to get your attention. Being an Orthodox catechumen I know a good … Continue reading The Saint Who Slept In An Armchair Instead Of A Bed →

Music Plays A Massive Role In The Conversion Of People

Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay I've been playing guitar since the age of 7. My Father had played guitar since a young boy as did his two brothers who went on to be very successful. Between them both they had supported some very big acts throughout the years such as The Who and Joe Cocker … Continue reading Music Plays A Massive Role In The Conversion Of People →

Ethnicity In Orthodoxy Is Not A Barrier To Conversion

One of the major arguments presented towards Orthodoxy is that it is very Ethnic based. If you're not Greek, Russian or belong to the race the Church has its roots in, you don't belong. I disagree with this altogether. The Greek Church is called Greek only because it describes the roots of its particular Jurisdiction. … Continue reading Ethnicity In Orthodoxy Is Not A Barrier To Conversion →