As long-time readers will know, one of the pivotal periods of my life for how I articulate and try to live out my faith was my time in the Eastern Orthodox Church. That time was triggered by an encounter with the teachings of a late Soviet-era Russian priest named Fr. Alexander Men, who is widely … Continue reading Fr. Alexander Men and the Way of Collective Honesty
Today is the feast of the Annunciation, when we remember the appearance of the angel Gabriel to Mary telling her of God’s plans for her life, and through her the world. The Greek name goes even harder, translating to “The Evangelization of the Theotokos,” or “The Proclamation of the Good News to the Mother of … Continue reading St. Mary the Mother of God and the Way of Yes to God: A Reflection for Annunciation 2025
Over the years I’ve noticed an interesting trend, where young Christian men — always men, and always at around 19-21 years old — develop a sudden fascination with apologetics. (I was not immune to this trend; that’s actually how I first noticed it, when a friend two years younger than me developed the same interest … Continue reading St. John of Damascus and the Way of Having a Ready Answer
As we approach the half-way point of Lent, especially in this exhausting and anxious year, I think we’re all in need of some refreshment. And I have no doubt that that’s why the Old Testament reading appointed for today, from Isaiah 55, resonated so strongly with me today. It speaks of the wonderful and refreshing, … Continue reading St. Therese of Lisieux and the Way of Simplicity: A Reflection on Isaiah 55.1-9
When we see or hear something that is popular and powerful, but which is a bit off, containing untruths mixed in with profound truths, how do we respond? It’s an evergreen question, both in society at large and among people of faith. Today I’d like to look at how one great Saint of the Church, … Continue reading St. Maximus the Confessor and the Way of Upholding the Good
Matthew Root 