A Fallen World
One of the difficult challenges of living in a humanistic, secular society is that there seems to be little or no understanding that we live in a “fallen” world. For the Church of course, the notion of a “fallen world” is an important tenet of our faith. The humanistic mindset acknowledges that human beings are “flawed” and that people make … Read More
Are Some Lives More Sacred Than Others?
Several weeks ago, I mentioned I that I would discuss sanctify of life issues within the context of several related questions. One of these questions was, “are some lives more sacred than others?” It is not unusual for people to take different stands on matters related to sanctify of life. For example, there are those who identify as pro-life, calling … Read More
June 12th, 2018
What can Orthodox Christians do besides advocating for the overturn of Roe vs. Wade? Roman Catholicism in many areas in the United States sponsors crisis pregnancy programs that offer support to pregnant women who decide to carry their child. These programs offer counseling, financial aid, medical and housing assistance, clothing, and other essential services. When I served as a priest … Read More
June 5th, 2018
By Bishop Paul In last week’s reflection, I mentioned that I would speak further on the Church’s stand on the sanctity of life relative to abortion. At last January’s March for Life event in Chicago, I said the following as part of my remarks: “Our concern for the unborn is so important to remember this day because it is the … Read More
“Friendship and Camp” by Fr. Joel Weir
Rev. Joel Weir, Rector, St. Stephen the First Martyr Orthodox Church, Crawfordsville, IN, Camp Priest, St. John’s Camp Programs. When I was asked to write a reflection on the importance of camp programs, I immediately recalled a conversation my wife and I had with Bishop Paul on his first visit to our parish. We asked what he thought were the … Read More