Book Giveaway

Becoming Orthodox: A Journey to the Ancient Christian Faith by Peter Gillquist, revised edition published by Conciliar Press 1992. Soft-cover, 187 pages.

This was one of the first books I read upon my introduction to the Orthodox Church; it’s a great place to start, especially for those like me who have a Protestant mind-set. I could easily relate to Fr. Gillquist’s journey from his time with Campus Crusade for Christ through his many questions and stumbling blocks in searching for the church of the apostles.

On this quest with his fellow christian friends to discover the New Testament Church, he discovers Orthodoxy and works through issues such as Tradition, the nature of worship, venerating the Virgin Mary, and general history of the church.

This book is an easy read and would be suitable for anyone curious about Orthodoxy or on the journey to the ancient faith.

Just leave a comment here or email me @ heartjoys2002 (at) yahoo (dot) com if you’d like to be entered in the drawing set for Monday, May 3. (Limited to US participants)

Mocha Smile

Walking into the store that day,

A weary mom found solace in a lonely

Grocery aisle...

Blessed peace of

A quiet space

Did much to ease a throbbing mind.

Funny the things you find

When heartache

Renders emotions raw...

Lifted beyond the great

Clouds of grey,

A stranger beheld

My face

And paused in kindness

Speaking seas of understanding

With the embrace

Of friendly eyes, a benevolent smile

And gentle nod.

I wonder what bewilderment

He saw that day...

Hoping his memory

Holds a glimmer

Of a thankful woman

With mocha smile.

©2010 ALT

This is part of a creative writing challenge from Magpie Tales

Byzantium: The Lost Empire

I’ve just watched the 2 part series, courtesy of Netflix, of John Romer’s fascinating program produced by The Learning Channel (1997). This is the type of documentary I enjoy most, feeling as if I’m not just a passive observer, but intensely engaged in the commentary and scenes opening up before me. And, in the case of Romer, it’s like following a friend along the ancient streets of Constantinople, over 15 centuries ago. A gentle speaking friend who knows the place well and is anxious to share it with you in that most pleasing British accent.

This was the perfect introduction to the ancient empire of Byzantium, which was the center of Christendom on earth for over 1,000 years. I’ve had a keen interest in Byzantium since converting to Orthodoxy... the icons, architecture, the court, including such notable figures as St. Justinian and his beloved wife, St. Theodora. Mr. Romer is so gifted in this work, displaying not only his thorough historical research, but presenting it with such care, ...even poetic at times. His love of ancient peoples and this era of Christendom in particular is obvious throughout the film.

I was amazed to know that the great Hagia Sofia, the famous cathedral of the ancient Byzantines, is still standing. Originally built in the 4th century, after the Turks conquered Byzantium in 1453, it became a mosque and then a museum. The entire history is fascinating; thankfully we still have relics, icons, sculpture and other artifacts to provide a glimpse, a window back into this glorious era.

The music in the documentary is a nice touch, too as we travel from busy, modern day Istanbul (ancient Constantinople) back to the days of Emperors worshipping in some of the most splendid cathedrals our world has ever known.

Five Stars.

This is what I love about West Virginians...

As many of you probably know, there's a lot of heartache here, right now, in southern WV due to the mine explosion that took 25 lives. The rescue operation is currently ongoing in hopes of finding the 4 remaining miners alive.

In the midst of such pain, the notorious Westboro Baptist Church of Kansas has scheduled a protest at our state capital as well as near the mine site. In case you're unaware, this is the group that protests at US soldiers' funerals, believing that God is punishing the USA because of homosexuality. Here's a shot from their latest hate filled protest:

I was happily surprised... although, not completely, because I know my fellow West Virginians to be some of the most hospitable and compassionate people on the planet, when I read this:

"Charleston Flashmobbers Prepare to outdo Westboro Baptist Church"

In a hastily put-together 'anti-hate' display, hundreds of people were organized at the sites of the Westboro groups in order to counter them, to respond to their hate-filled tactics with love, with celebration and dancing. Yes, dancing.

You've got to see the video:

Charleston Flashmobbers

And, in other areas of our capital city, the anti-hate groups, out-chanted, out-maneuvered, and in essence, shut-out the voices and displays of Westboro Baptist Church.

Sweet.

Cat and Mouse

Mr. O'Malley

I am blessed to live at the edge of the forest, I really am. Except for sometimes. Ninety-eight percent of the time I love seeing the wild critters just outside my door ...fox, squirrels, deer, opossum, rabbits, turkey, chipmunks, coyote, raccoons...lots of songbirds and an occasional bird of prey, too. I take a lot of joy in our entertaining neck-o-the-woods.

Two percent of the time, however, like today... well, I am forced to face my nemesis: Fear.

It’s just this: outside of my door, the critters are cute, inside my door, they somehow become my enemy and greatest concern. I’m not sure why this is...why I lose all rational thought and can hardly function. You’d think after living here for 8 years, I’d be over it. I’m not.

This morning it seems Mr. O’Malley caught a mouse in our basement and brought it upstairs for sport. We were in our normal hustle and bustle heading out the door for the ride to school and so, I didn’t take notice of the cat’s antics ~ even though wee one said “Mr. O’Malley is pawing at the carpet in a funny way”

I arrived back home to find the cat & dog sitting together in the den, making curious faces at the basket near the bottom step. Upon closer investigation I spot the mouse, trapped - or hiding- behind the basket. I feel the blood drain from my face...

From 7:30 am until 12:30 pm the mouse remained in the same spot. The cat had lost interest and I was trying to figure out how to remove it. Silly, I know. I have no strength in this area...this is a “hubby job” only he’s not going to be home for 6 more hours and I have work to do. And I can’t get my work done until this critter is OUT.

I pray: “Lord, help me not to be such a weak vessel... please give me the strength to move this dead mouse outside”. I am such a coward.

I find the broom and a large box to scoop him into and ...what do you know.... when I move the basket to get at him, he AWAKES. He gathers himself and ambles behind my little bookcase. I freak, calling Mr. O’Malley to PLEASE come and finish the job! “Lord, have mercy!” I cannot believe I am paralyzed by a mouse.

I grab a flashlight and shine it into the dark crevasse behind the bookcase. There he is, sitting in a pile of dog hair and dust, seemingly resigned to his fate. Curiously, my thoughts went to St. Ciaran and his affinity with animals.. a prayer went up and then a strange thing happened -

As I maneuvered the little bookcase out of the way, the mouse didn’t move. He sat there .. so small. He could easily fit into my cupped hand. His ears were laying against his head, little eyes staring forward, feet tucked up under his body. My heart & mind transformed... I had not fear and anxiety, but pity.

I put the dog & cat out of the room, grabbed my box, bent down and said - out loud- to the mouse, “If you’ll just help me and go into this box, I’ll take you outside; I’m sure you’ll be much happier out there.”

He went.

Calmly, I carried him outside to the St. Francis garden at the far end of the yard. I knelt down and to my surprise, instead of scurrying, the little fellow walked out and I could see the scratch on his leg the cat had made. I think he’ll be ok. He settled into the clover, turned a bit into a semicircle, as if readying himself for a nap. And, then, as I watched him, he looked up at me - I kid you not, the little guy looked up at me as if to say, ‘thanks’.

Wonders never cease.

*That is Mr. O'Malley at top; the cute field mouse is not my photo, it was found here.

Pascha 2010

I am so thankful to be feeling better ... well enough to attend the Rush service in a few hours. This is the highlight of our year, the culmination of Holy Week to commemorate Christ’s descent into Hades and his glorious Resurrection! We’ll celebrate with candles, with solemn liturgy and with joyous shouts of Christ is Risen! Truly He is Risen! and with glad company, breaking the fast together with our church family. We are blessed to serve a Risen Saviour, blessed to worship freely in America!

Take a listen to other Paschal greetings from around the world.

Hristos vosskresse ; vo iss-ti-nou vosskresse

Tá Criost éirithe ; go deimhin tá sé éirithe

Christos anesti ; aléthos anesti

Al'Masiah qam ; haqqan qam

Krishti u ngjall ; vërtet u ngjall

Christus resurrectus est ; vere resurrectus est

Christ is Risen; Truly He is Risen!

Spikenard

The pinkish-purple, bell-shaped flowers of the spikenard plant grow in the Himalayas of China, India and Nepal. I’m guessing it was from India that the fragrant distilled oil of this plant came to be used by Mary of Bethany when she washed Jesus’ feet (St. John 12) Spikenard, or Nard oil is very thick and aromatic, producing an earthy/musty scent; one can imagine the effect on the senses when she opened the clay, or perhaps alabaster, container to anoint his dusty feet.

I found it interesting to note that spikenard was also one of the essential oils used to produce incense to burn in the Temple of Jerusalem. According to Jesus’ own words, it must have also been used along with myrrh to cleanse and prepare bodies for burial.

Even today, women (and perhaps men, too) use this essential oil to scent and moisturize their hair and scalp and to promote feelings of tranquility and warmth. It is especially recommended by some aromatherapists for use in emotion pain, such as loss and grieving.

Perhaps some even use it to call to mind Mary’s humility and devotion to Christ as she let down her hair in the fashion of a servant.

Thank you, O Father of Lights, for Your gifts that bathe our senses in memory and worship of Thee.

Precious Gifts

A warm sun kissed the auburn hair of the little boy as he struggled to reach the magnolia blossom up so high. He had devised a tool, made from scattered parts found in the old garage, to clip a fragrant white flower that bloomed beyond his reach.

The spring wind whipped her red hair about her face and you could occasionally see the faint freckles peeking out from behind her locks. Her little legs would falter a bit, as she climbed the grassy hillside in search of a treasure.

A heavenly aroma of earth and dew intermingled with the robust smell of colombian coffee in my mug. I breathed in this morning, watching and wondering what discoveries the children would make today...

Soon he appeared and proudly explained his new tool; offering a gift for this special day. And quickly, she too, came bounding through the yard, holding a few daffodils and smiling from ear to ear...

“Happy Birthday mommy!” their voices shouted...

Another Magpie Tale for you! Read more creative writings...

Beacons: Hope in the World

beacon: n. signal fire, lit at well-known locations for navigation, or signaling the approach of enemy troops.

I’ve found myself in multiple conversations lately regarding monasticism. Honestly, it’s been a recurring theme ever since I converted to Orthodoxy in 2006. It seems as though much of the Protestant world, and those who claim no religion at all, frequently misunderstand the nature of this high calling of God.

The misconceptions include but are not limited to the following:

-monks think they can earn their salvation by their “works”

-monks abandon their service to the world to pursue selfish aims

-monks are “wasting” their lives

-monks are “out of touch” with the problems of the world

These claims could not be further from the truth.

Monastics are our beacons in this dark world, they give hope to the world by shining the Light of Christ most brilliantly.

* Monastics understand the violent corrupting nature of sin better than most of us lay persons because they enter into spiritual warfare daily.

* Monastics understand the power of prayer and diligently, daily pray for the world as well as individuals.

* Monasteries become centers of hope and illumination for communities; this is why many towns and cities built up around monasteries from days of old.

* Monastics, by example of their lives, give testimony to Jesus Christ and His enduring love for mankind.

* Monastics do not believe they “earn” salvation by works, but believe in the mercy of God for their salvation.

* Monasteries, and the holy people living within them, with the grace of God, transform places into holy ground.

* The number of active monasteries is a good indicator of a nation’s spiritual health.

* Monastics provide spiritual help and guidance to those in need; contrary to popular Protestant belief, they are most accessible and hospitable to those seeking Jesus Christ.

* Monks know the value of being still, ...a much needed lesson for us busy Americans.

Our Orthodox Monasteries around the world are holy places, daily engaging of the worship of God, providing spiritual direction, prayer & contemplation, healing, caring for and venerating precious icons, teaching us to be obedient in our life in Christ... they are our beacons of Light in this world.

Pray for our monastics,

Thank God for those answering this high calling...

If you cannot visit a monastery, a good way to share the essence of monasticism is to see the beautiful production, From the Little Mountain, made by the monks at Holy Cross Monastery. Read my review of From the Little Mountain.

Incidentally, one of my favorite scenes from the Lord of the Rings is the lighting of the beacons. I cannot watch this apart from tears because it so well represents the hope, the sustaining hope of Jesus Christ, lit in this world by monastics.

O Canada, is 9 years too late to say, "Thank You"?

September 11, 2001 - we all know the tragic events of that fateful day. But do you know the story of the warm-hearted Canadians that came to the rescue of thousands of Americans the same day?

Hopefully you saw Tom Brokaw’s 40+ minute documentary of how Gander, (pop. 10,000) Newfoundland and Labrador stepped up in an enormous way to become a safe haven for 38 jets containing some 7,000 passengers that were grounded when America completely shut-down its air space following the attacks. This inspiring feature was broadcast during the Vancouver Olympics last month.

In case you didn’t see it, this is one to look up; maybe they’ll have portions of it available on YouTube soon. This is a feature I would purchase if it was available. It was a moving tale that left me disappointed to only be learning of it now.

For a small airport that generally handles only 8 domestic flights a day, landing 38 jumbo jets and accommodating 7,000 people (which nearly doubled the population) was a massive undertaking. All of these passengers had to be processed through immigration and taken to temporary shelters, as Gander’s hotel beds are quite limited. The passengers were bussed to schools, churches, legion halls - and what is more, much more, the residents of this most easterly province of Canada, went above and beyond the call of hospitality. They brought cots, blankets, pillows, clothes, cooked hams, casseroles, home-baked goods, bottled water, cell-phones, toys for children...grocery stores gave products away, pharmacists refilled prescriptions at no cost... people were driven to local churches to pray...all passengers were accommodated with incredible generosity.

It really warms my heart to know this about my northern neighbors...and it makes me wonder why I never read a single headline about it in 2001.

Some of the passengers formed friendships that continue to this day ...and, when it was discovered that the residents of Gander would not accept money from the thankful multitude, a college scholarship fund was created. Would you believe $15,000 was pledged by Americans on the flight returning to the US after their heart-warming stay in Gander? That scholarship, for students in Gander, has now grown to over $900,000 and several of the stranded passengers from that horrific day in September ’01 have returned to visit their hosts and friends.

God bless you, Canada. Thank you for the generous care and grace you showed to our people...

...and, depending on how the healthcare vote goes tonight in the US, I’m wondering, would you welcome another family? ;-)