The Exaltation of the Cross and a Bed of Basil

The Exaltation of the Cross and a Bed of Basil

If you make it to the Liturgy for the Exaltation of the Cross, the cross will likely be set out on a fragrant bed of fresh basil. Why is that? The first thing you have to understand is that when we Orthodox ask a question like that, the answer tends to be a story. And...
Seasons of the Faith: A Review

Seasons of the Faith: A Review

If I’d have known about this book earlier, I’d have reviewed it on September 1. Seriously. Twenty Yawns could have waited. Seasons of the Faith: Helping Your Family Celebrate the Feasts and Fasts of the Church is a guide to celebrating the Church Year, and the Church...
Why Is Transfiguration in August?

Why Is Transfiguration in August?

The Transfiguration of our Lord is part of the story that leads up to the Passion, and then to the Resurrection. So why do we celebrate it in August? In the early days of the Church, at least in some places, it was celebrated 40 days before our Lord was crucified. But...
One Thing You Must Not Do on Ascension

One Thing You Must Not Do on Ascension

Today is the Leavetaking of Pascha and the Eve of the Ascension. In some places, Ascension is a public holiday, but if you’re in the US, you’ll probably be going to work or school tomorrow. I know I will. But I love the idea of bringing back some of the old...
Don’t put the Easter picture books away!

Don’t put the Easter picture books away!

Yesterday was Pascha. Today is Bright Monday. The kitchen hasn’t recovered yet, and frankly, neither have you. You’re wandering through the house in a bit of a fog. You see Easter picture books scattered on the floor, and you start to pick them up and pack them away...

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