A Message from Fr. Jim
Posted: 2007-12-01
QUESTION:
Repentance is a word we hear so often in the Orthodox faith. Please note for me examples where we experience forgiveness through the Church. (Petros)
ANSWER:
We experience total forgiveness in the Sacrament of Holy Confession. An Orthodox Christian also experiences examples of forgiveness in personal PRAYER, in the petitions and supplication prayers in our Church Services. Forgiveness is also found in the Sacrament of Holy Unction and also with receiving Holy Commun-ion…the Servant of God receives the Body and Blood of Christ for the “FORGIVENESS OF SINS” and eternal life.
It should also be said that the “LORD’S PRAYER” reminds us of the words: “Forgive us our Trespasses and we forgive those who Trespass against us”.
When we sin we separate ourselves from Jesus Christ, His Church and our fellowman. Unite yourself with Christ by confessing your sins, loving your bothers and sisters and keeping the Ten Commandments. Await your greatest Gift from God… “Your sins are forgiven!”
QUESTION:
Can you share just a brief thought on Saint Spyridon? He is the patron saint of my grandfather. (Tom)
ANSWER:
Saint Spyridon is known as the Miracle Worker. His Feastday is observed on December 12th. This saint was a simple pious man who was born in Kerkyra (Corfu). He was a true man of prayer who also memorized, lived and taught the Holy Scripture. He was ordained a Priest and then a Hierarch of the Church. Saint Spyridon took part in the First Ecumenical Council and is know till this day as a healer of the sick. He fell asleep in the Lord in the mi-part of the Fourth Century. We should note that Saint Spyridon’s body lies in state in perfect condition as with a Holy Anointing from God.
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