by Abbot Tryphon One of the most spiritually profitable discoveries for me, personally, was when I started, as a new Orthodox Christian, the observance of the liturgical calendar. Each day of the year I was carried along with the cycle of commemorations that brought to life various events in the life of Christ. The calendar provided me with daily scripture readings that quenched my thirst. The historical memory of the Church, lived out in the various periods of fasts and feasts, allowed me to experience a Christianity that was vibrant and meaningful. An important element in the calendar, I discovered, was the daily commemorations of Christian saints and martyrs. These saints came alive … [Read more...]

by Fr. Nektarios Serfes Over the years, I’ve seen many of our brothers and sisters in Christ suffer from ‘holiday’ depression. It is not uncommon. I have found that the Nativity Fast, when sedulously applied, lifts this spiritual malaise and depression with great effectiveness. Likewise, I have seen, and continue to see, those who complain or suffer from this Christmas depression, but refuse to life a finger to even try to fast, and thus remain in their despair. If you suffer from Christmas depression – try it and see how simple it is to remain joyful throughout the Nativity fast and the Christmas season. – Fr. John Much of the post-holiday blues and Christmas depression that occur in … [Read more...]

On Thursday, October 31st the parishioners of All Saints of North America Orthodox Church held an 'All Saints Party', the first of an annual tradition. A fall themed potluck dinner was followed by the quizzing of the saints, in order to determine who dressed as which saint. An amazing amount of creativity went into the presentations. Finally, a pumpkin carving contest was held, with third place being won by a 4 year old! Well done everyone! See the galleries below. … [Read more...]