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New and Notable - Popular favorites and upcoming releases
At the Roots of Christian Bioethics: Critical Essays on the Thought of H. Tristram Engelhardt, Jr — Ana Smith Iltis (Author), Mark J. Cherry (Author)
At the Roots of Christian Bioethics explores Professor H. Tristram Engelhardt, Jr.’s pursuit for the decisive ground of the meaning of human existence and knowledge of appropriate moral choice. Engelhardt has been the most influential, cogent, but critical voice within bioethics of the past several decades. The essays in this volume compass epistemological,... [More...]
Christ the Conqueror of Hell: The Descent into Hades from an Orthodox Perspective — Archbishop Hilarion Alfeyev
This in-depth study on the realm of death presents a message of hope held by the first generation of Christians and the early church. Using Scripture, patristic tradition, early Christian poetry, and liturgical texts, Archbishop Hilarion explores the mysterious and enigmatic event of Christ’s descent into Hades and its consequences for the human... [More...]
The Woman and the Wheat — Jane G. Meyer
There once was a woman who planted some wheat… So begins this rhythmical, festive children’s book about the joy of a farmer as she works to grow the wheat and bake that bread that she will offer back to her Creator in Eucharistic celebration. The vibrant images — reminiscent of fields in the American mid-west — sparkle in light-saturated,... [More...]
The Old Testament as Authoritative Scripture in the Early Churches of the East (Bible in the Christian Orthodox Tradition) — Vahan S. Hovhanessian
The Old Testament as Authoritative Scripture in the Early Churches of the East represents the latest scholarly research in the field of Old Testament as Scripture in Eastern Christianity. Its twelve articles focus on the use of the Old Testament in the earliest Christian communities in the East. The collection explores the authoritative role of the... [More...]
On Social Justice: St. Basil the Great — C. Paul Schroeder
St Basil’s homilies on the subject of wealth and poverty, although delivered in the fourth century, remain utterly fresh and contemporary. Whether you possess great wealth or have modest means, at the heart of Basil’s message stands the maxim: Simplify your life, so you have something to share with others. While some patristic texts relate to obscure... [More...]
The Byzantines (The Peoples of Europe) — Averil Cameron
Available November 16, 2009. Winner of the 2006 John D. Criticos Prize “Averil Cameron’s The Byzantines marks a welcome departure from most previous attempts to portray and characterize Byzantine civilization. The book focuses squarely on the people of the Byzantine Empire, their views of themselves and their culture, and how these changed... [More...]
The Ethiopian Servant of Christ — Bishop Macarius
Fr Abd el-Mesih el-Habashi is one of the twentieth century’s great ascetics who lived in the Egyptian desert. His life is a witness to the continuity of the desert spirituality of the 4th century. He was man who was not concerned about anything or for anyone. His only concern was for the One. His eyes were directed towards eternity. He was content... [More...]
Land and Covenant — Paul Nadim Tarazi
“If you have lived in the Middle East since the inception of the state of Israel, or if you are a student of twentieth century Middle East history, you cannot help but take part in the debate which has produced many books on the ongoing conflict between Jews and Arabs, especially Palestinians…[Tarazi addresses this conflict] not from an... [More...]
Bodies Like Bright Stars: Saints and Relics in Russia — Robert H. Greene
This title explores popular devotion to the cult of saints in late imperial and early Soviet Russia. While the late imperial church celebrated saints as paragons of virtue and piety whose lives were to be emulated in the search for salvation, ordinary Russian Orthodox lay believers sought the assistance of the saints for mundane and worldly matters.... [More...]
Orthodox Pastoral Service — Kyprian Kern (Author), William C Mills (Editor), Mary Goddard (Translator)
Nearly fifty years ago, the Eastern Orthodox monk and theologian, Archimandrite Kyprian Kern, explored pertinent issues regarding pastoral ministry. Kern’s writings on clericalism and problems with the abuse of power and authority in the Church, for example, are as fresh today as when they were first written. Kern is probably the least known... [More...]
Finding a Hidden Church — Christopher Zugger
A wondrous tale of the underground life and revival of the Ruthenian Greek Catholic Church in the former Soviet Union. 382 pages. Paperback with many photos. Perfect Paperback Publisher: Eastern Christian Publicatios (2009) ISBN-10: 1892278928 ISBN-13: 978-1892278920 Read More →
The Epistles of St Symeon the New Theologian — H. J. M. Turner
St Symeon the New Theologian (949-1022) is regarded as one of the most significant figures in Byzantine mysticism. Though a very controversial figure in his own lifetime, he is now revered both in Orthodox and other Christian traditions. After beginning his monastic life while still comparatively young, he became hegumen of the monastery of St Mamas,... [More...]
Becoming Byzantine: Children and Childhood in Byzantium (Dumbarton Oaks Byzantine Symposia and Colloquia) — Arietta Papaconstantinou
Available September 15, 2009. Despite increased interest over the last fifty years in childhood in Byzantium, the bibliography on this topic remains rather short and generalized. Becoming Byzantine: Children and Childhood in Byzantium presents detailed information about children’s lives, and provides a basis for further study. This collection of... [More...]
The Chrysostom Bible – Genesis: A Commentary — Paul Nadim Tarazi
The present Bible Commentary Series is not so much in honor of John Chrysostom as it is to continue and promote his legacy as an interpreter of the biblical texts for preaching and teaching God’s congregation, in order to prod its members to proceed on the way they started when they accepted God’s calling. Chrysostom’s virtual uniqueness is that... [More...]
The Love Chapter: The Meaning of First Corinthians 13 — John Chrysostom (Author), Frederica Mathewes-Green (Foreword)
St. Paul was the first to really define love. St. John Chrysostom unpacks it. One of the most important passages in the Scriptures, First Corinthians 13 is often read and rarely followed. Medieval theologian, John Chrysostom, was called the “golden-mouthed” one, for the eloquence of his preaching. His reputation extended from his native East to... [More...]
Western Front of the Eastern Church: “Uniate and Orthodox Conflict in Eighteenth Century Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia” — Barbara Skinner (Jul 2009)
“This impressive volume provides valuable empirical research on the competition of the Uniate and Orthodox churches. It offers a rich new perspective on such critical issues as confessionalization, religious identity, and politics in East Europe and Russia. It is an essential monograph for scholars in the field.” – Gregory Freeze,... [More...]
The Jesus Prayer: The Ancient Desert Prayer that Tunes the Heart to God — Frederica Mathewes-Green
Available October 21, 2009. In the earliest centuries of faith, Christians in the deserts of Palestine and Africa sought a short prayer that could be easily repeated, in order to acquire the habit of “prayer without ceasing.” The result was The Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me.” This jewel of Eastern Christianity... [More...]
In the World, Yet Not of the World: Social and Global Initiatives of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew — Patriarch Bartholomew and John Chryssavgis (ed)
[Available November 2009]. In the World, Yet Not of the World represents a selection of major addresses and significant messages as well as public statements by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, “first among equals” and spiritual leader of the world’s 300 million Orthodox Christians. The Patriarch is as comfortable preaching... [More...]
Eastern Orthodox and Anglicans: Diplomacy, Theology, and the Politics of Interwar Ecumenism — Bryn Geffert (Jul 2009)
Available October 15, 2009. Pre-order Price Guarantee! Order now and if the Amazon.com price decreases between your order time and the end of the day of the release date, you’ll receive the lowest price. Read More →
The Life of Saint Brigid: Abbess of Kildare — Jane G. Meyer (Author), Zachary Lynch (Illustrator)
Brigid was a young and lively girl, often scolded for giving away more than she should to the beggars at her doorstep. From butter, to meat, to her father’s sword, she gave when she was asked, her heart breaking for those in need. Eventually, Brigid grew to be abbess of a community of thousands, her love and care earning her a place as one of... [More...]
Living in God’s Creation: The Ecological Vision of Orthodox Christianity — Elizabeth Theokritoff (Jun 2009)
Few realize how ecological the vision of Orthodox Christianity really is. Yet it portrays creation as an epiphany of God, and the human person as a workshop of unity, a connecting link uniting creation and Creator. This lofty ideal is to be achieved at a very practical level: we are to manifest our love for God, for other people, and for the world,... [More...]
The Orthodox Christian World — Augustine Casid
Available October 1, 2009. Orthodox Christianity is the main historical inheritor of the Byzantine tradition of Christianity, and is still practised around the world. The two main strands are Greek Orthodox and Russian Orthodox, but there are thriving communities in countries are varied as Egypt (the Copts), Armenia, and Romania, with strong diasporic... [More...]
Hellenic Temples and Christian Churches: A Concise History of the Religious Cultures of Greece from Antiquity to the Present — Vasilios Makrides
Available September 1, 2009. Covering an expanse of more than three thousand years,Hellenic Temples and Christian Churches charts, in one concise volume, the history of Greece’s religious cultures from antiquity all the way through to present, post-independence Greece. Focusing on the encounter and interaction between Hellenism and (Orthodox) Christianity,... [More...]
God Knows There’s Need: Christian Responses to Poverty — Susan R. Holman
The subject of poverty is rich in meanings and associations, among them hunger, stench, disease, disfigurement, shame, revulsion, and loss. It is a topic that has preoccupied the mind and hearts of the faithful since the inception of Christianity. In this insightful volume, Susan R. Holman blends personal memoir and scholarly research into ancient... [More...]
Orthodox Christianity At The Crossroad: A Great Council Of The Church? When And Why — George Matsoukas
The purpose of publishing the papers presented at the Twentieth Annual Meeting of Orthodox Christian Laity is to improve “lay and clergy literacy” on the conference topic of “The Need for a Great and Holy Council.” The papers are presented with the hope that the information will motivate the faithful to participate in the conciliar... [More...]
Armenian Golgotha — Grigoris Balakian
On the night of April 24, 1915, Grigoris Balakian, an Armenian priest, and more than two hundred other Armenian politicians and intellectuals were arrested in Constantinople. Soon, Armenians across Turkey were massacred or forced to join a death march to the desert of Der Zor. Balakian walked among the displaced for months before he fled, disguising... [More...]
The Annointing of the Sick — Paul Meyendorf
Based on an exacting investigation into the history of the rite, the author makes compelling proposals for recapturing its original spirit in parish life, at a time when the care of the sick a matter of grave concern. –V. Rev. Fr. M Daniel Findikyan Ph.D. St Nersess Armenian Seminary Description The healing ministry of Jesus Christ is a primary... [More...]
Exegesis and Hermeneutics in the Churches of the East: Select Papers from the SBL Meeting in San Diego, 2007 — Vahan S. Hovhanessian (Author), Vahan S. Hovhanessian (Editor)
Book synopsis Exegesis and Hermeneutics in the Churches of the East contains the proceedings of the Bible in the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Traditions unit of the Society of Biblical Literature’s (SBL) 2007 meeting in San Diego, California. Biblical professors and scholars from the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox traditions (the latter including... [More...]
Matthew and The Canon Paul Nadim Tarazi
This is the fourth and final volume of Fr. Tarazi’s New Testament introduction tetralogy. In addition to his exegesis on the Book of Matthew, Fr. Tarazi discusses the formation of the New Testament canon and the Gospel of Matthew, which he argues was intentionally written as the closing book within this canon. “Fr. Tarazi’s application... [More...]
The Paradise of the Holy Fathers: Volume 2 — Wallis Budge (Translator)
The Paradise of the Fathers is the classic compilation of the lives and teachings of the early monastic saints. It has been said that for a monastic to achieve perfection there are only two books needed: the Bible and the Paradise of the Fathers. This volume is translated from a Syriac manuscript discovered in 1888 by Dr. Ernest A. Wallis Budge.This... [More...]
Touching Heaven: Discovering Orthodox Christianity on the Island of Valaam — John Oliver and Jonah Paffhausen
“Deep in a northern Russian forest of jade and brown, far from any hint of civilization, Valaam monastery sinks into the seasons of the year as it has for a thousand years before….” So begins the story of John Oliver, a young American on a journey of discovery— a journey that leads him to an ancient Russian monastery, a place of peace... [More...]
Beginnings: Ancient Christian Readings of the Biblical Creation Narratives — Peter C. Bouteneff
What are we missing when we look at the creation narratives of Genesis only or primarily through the lens of modern discourse about science and religion? Theologian Peter Bouteneff explores how first-millennium Christian understandings of creation can inform current thought in the church and in the public square. He reaches back into the earliest centuries... [More...]
The Heavenly Banquet: Understanding the Divine Liturgy — Fr. Emmanuel Hatzidakis
Product Description A book much needed, and unlike anything that has appeared in the English language on this subject, The Heavenly Banquet is more than a liturgical commentary. With an abundance of copiously documented biblical citations and rich patristic references, the Divine Liturgy is explained line by line, word by word. This book unhesitantly... [More...]
The Orthodox Study Bible: Ancient Christianity Speaks to Today’s World
The FIRST EVER Orthodox Study Bible presents the Bible of the early church and the church of the early Bible. Orthodox Christianity is the face of ancient Christianity to the modern world and embraces the second largest body of Christians in the world. In this first-of-its-kind study Bible, the Bible is presented with commentary from the ancient Christian... [More...]
Surprised by Christ: My Journey from Judaism to Orthodox Christianity — Fr. A. James Bernstein
Raised in Queens by formerly Orthodox Jewish parents whose faith had been undermined by the Holocaust, Arnold Bernstein went on his own personal quest for spiritual meaning. He was ready to accept God in whatever form He chose to reveal Himself and that form turned out to be Christ. But Bernstein soon perceived discrepancies in the various forms of... [More...]
Byzantine Jewry in the Mediterranean Economy — Joshua Holo
Using primary sources, Joshua Holo uncovers the day-to-day workings of the Byzantine-Jewish economy in the middle Byzantine period. Built on a web of exchange systems both exclusive to the Jewish community and integrated in society at large, this economy forces a revision of Jewish history in the region. Paradoxically, the two distinct economic orientations,... [More...]
New and Notable - Includes preorders
At the Roots of Christian Bioethics: Critical Essays on the Thought of H. Tristram Engelhardt, Jr — Ana Smith Iltis (Author), Mark J. Cherry (Author)
At the Roots of Christian Bioethics explores Professor H. Tristram Engelhardt, Jr.'s pursuit for the decisive ground of the meaning of human existence and knowledge of appropriate moral choice. Engelhardt has been the most influential, cogent, but critical voice within bioethics of the past several decades. The essays in this volume compass epistemological, methodological and topical contributions to bioethics, political theory, and Christian theology. Each explores Engelhardt's diagnosis of the contemporary social and cultural crisis, seeking to make sense of the decidedly post-Christian and often openly anti-Christian ethics that dominates public morality and politic policy. Each author investigates Engelhardt's personal and tireless enquiry to secure ultimate moral foundations as well as to recognize the full implications of the results of his investigations: that Christian bioethics does not originate in human reason but in the command of God. The book should be read by bioethicists, philosophers, religious scholars, public policy experts, and the Orthodox faithful. Review This volume is indispensable for anyone who wishes to understand the fabric of the contemporary phenomenon of bioethics. --Stephen A. Erickson, E. Wilson Lyon Professor of Humanities and Professor of Philosophy, Pomona College, Claremont, CA Tris Engelhardt has done more than any other figure in contemporary bioethics to bring the resources of the entire history of philosophy to bear on the ethical issues that emerge from contemporary biomedicine. His views are always provocative and frequently ground-breaking. These essays provide a fresh look at many of the themes he has explored throughout his career. Highly recommended for those who want to come to terms with the views of this giant of contemporary bioethics. --David Solomon, W.P. and H.B. White Director of the Notre Dame Center for Ethics and Culture
Christ the Conqueror of Hell: The Descent into Hades from an Orthodox Perspective — Archbishop Hilarion Alfeyev
This in-depth study on the realm of death presents a message of hope held by the first generation of Christians and the early church. Using Scripture, patristic tradition, early Christian poetry, and liturgical texts, Archbishop Hilarion explores the mysterious and enigmatic event of Christ's descent into Hades and its consequences for the human race. Insisting that Christ entered Sheol as Conqueror and not as victim, the author depicts the Lord's descent as an event of cosmic significance opening the path to universal salvation. He also reveals Hades as a place of divine presence, a place where the spiritual fate of a person may still change. Reminding readers that self-will remains the only hindrance to life in Christ, he presents the gospel message anew, even in the shadow of death. Christ’s descent into Hades is a most mysterious event in the New Testament history. The book includes texts from the New Testament, apocrypha, and early Christian poetry dealing with the theme, a review of the relevant works by the Holy Fathers and a short discourse into the Western theological tradition. Hymns by St. Ephraem the Syrian and St. Romanus the Melodist that have formed the basis of other liturgical texts and are still used in the Orthodox Church are reviewed, as well as the liturgical texts from the Octoechos, the Lenten Triodion, and the Festal Triodion telling about Christ’s descent into Hell and His victory over death. The author’s studies into the dogmatic contents of the texts are very important to the comprehension of the Orthodox faith, as the dogmas become an object of contemplation in prayer for Christians rather than abstract speculative truths. There are many Greek, Syrian, and Latin texts never translated into Russian in the book. Some of them have not been used by the authors working on the theme ...
The Woman and the Wheat — Jane G. Meyer
There once was a woman who planted some wheat... So begins this rhythmical, festive children’s book about the joy of a farmer as she works to grow the wheat and bake that bread that she will offer back to her Creator in Eucharistic celebration. The vibrant images -- reminiscent of fields in the American mid-west -- sparkle in light-saturated, warm jewel-tones and provide the perfect backdrop for the story of a woman in love with the earth, and her labor, and equally in love with her God. Jane G. Meyer is a contributing editor and columnist for a journal for Orthodox Christian women, The Handmaiden , and is currently finishing her second young adult novel. Ned Gannon lived in New York for seven years, illustrating and painting for galleries, before taking a teaching position at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. He has had work exhibited at the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art, and the Society of Illustrators Gallery in New York. A truly significant contribution to Christian children’s literature. In a style reminiscent of that of a ballad, Jane tells the central story of Christianity. It is the story of a grain of wheat, dead in the soil, rising with the first rays of the spring sun, bringing an abundant harvest to us, and becoming the bread that gives us life... Ned Gannon's paintings provide a perfect illustration to this beautiful story. Together with its companion book,The Man and the Vine, The Woman and the Wheat will make a wonderful first introduction for children to the mystery of the Divine Liturgy. Fr Sergei Sveshnikov, author of Break the Holy Bread, Master: A Theology of Communion Bread. Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: St Vladimirs Seminary Pr (November 20, 2009) Language: English ISBN-10: 0881410594 ISBN-13: 978-0881410594
The Old Testament as Authoritative Scripture in the Early Churches of the East (Bible in the Christian Orthodox Tradition) — Vahan S. Hovhanessian
The Old Testament as Authoritative Scripture in the Early Churches of the East represents the latest scholarly research in the field of Old Testament as Scripture in Eastern Christianity. Its twelve articles focus on the use of the Old Testament in the earliest Christian communities in the East. The collection explores the authoritative role of the Old Testament in the churches of the East and its impact on the church's doctrine, liturgy, canon law, and spirituality. Contents Nicolae Roddy: Introduction - J. Edward Walters: Son of Man, Son of God: Aphrahat's Biblical Christology - Merja Merras: Ephraem the Syrian and the Authority of the Old Testament Writings - Bryan A. Stewart: Levitical Paradigms for Christian Bishops: The Old Testament Influence on Origen of Alexandria - Mark W. Elliott: Leviticus between Fifth-Century Jerusalem and Ninth-Century Merv - David Kneip: The Holy Spirit in Cyril of Alexandria's Commentary on Isaiah - Robert A. Kitchen: Winking at Jonah Narsai's Interpretation of Jonah for the Church of the East - Jonathan Loopstra: A Syriac Tract for the «Explanation» of Hebrew and Foreign Words - Nicolae Roddy: Does the Orthodox Lectionary Subvert the Gospel? The Pericope of the Parable of the Wicked Husbandmen (Matt 21:36-46) - Timothy Scott Clark: A Question for the Audience: The Prokeimenon and Poetics in Eastern Liturgy - Edith M. Humphrey: Grand Entrance: Entrance into Worship as Rhetorical Invitation and Liturgical Precedent in the Older Testament - Rajkumar Boaz Johnson: The Use of the Old Testament in the Syrian Christian Traditions of India. About the author The Editor: Vahan S. Hovhanessian holds a Ph.D. in Biblical studies from Fordham University in New York. He is Professor of Biblical Studies at the St. Nersess Armenian Seminary in New Rochelle, New York, and Visiting Professor of Biblical Studies at the Georgian Court University in Lakewood, New Jersey. ...
On Social Justice: St. Basil the Great — C. Paul Schroeder
St Basil’s homilies on the subject of wealth and poverty, although delivered in the fourth century, remain utterly fresh and contemporary. Whether you possess great wealth or have modest means, at the heart of Basil’s message stands the maxim: Simplify your life, so you have something to share with others. While some patristic texts relate to obscure and highly philosophical questions, Basil’s teachings on social issues are immediately understood and applicable. At a time when vast income disparity and overuse of limited environmental resources are becoming matters of increasing concern, Basil’s message is more relevant now than ever before. There is no way to describe the power, simplicity, wisdom, and freedom of his words…you will think they were written yesterday—not 1600 years ago! … precisely he describes our modern struggle with material wealth, our responsibility to our fellow man, and how to live a life in balance. —Gregory P. Yova, from the Foreword Father Paul Schroeder is an independent scholar and translator of early patristic texts. He resides in Portland, Oregon and is the Proistamenos of Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Portland Oregon. Contents Foreword Preface Introduction To the Rich I Will Tear Down My Barns In Time of Famine and Drought Against Those Who Lend at Interest Appendix: The Pseudo-Basilian Homily On Mercy and Justice Bibliography Excerpt: [St Basil] describes these lenders as predators in the truest sense, “rushing like a hound to the hunt,” while the debtors “quail like quarry at the pursuit”; he urges the prospective borrower, “do not allow yourself to be tracked and hunted down like some kind of prey.” Basil warns the poor to live within their constrained means so as not to become trapped in the downward spiral of debt, vividly describing the miserable life of the debtor who lives in terror of meeting the creditor. But he concludes with stern words for the lenders who oppress ...
The Byzantines (The Peoples of Europe) — Averil Cameron
Available November 16, 2009. Winner of the 2006 John D. Criticos Prize "Averil Cameron’s The Byzantines marks a welcome departure from most previous attempts to portray and characterize Byzantine civilization. The book focuses squarely on the people of the Byzantine Empire, their views of themselves and their culture, and how these changed over time. The result is a remarkably clear view of who the Byzantines were, and the book will contribute significantly to a restoration of Byzantium to its rightful place at the center of the historical tradition of Europe." –Timothy Gregory, Ohio State University
The Ethiopian Servant of Christ — Bishop Macarius
Fr Abd el-Mesih el-Habashi is one of the twentieth century's great ascetics who lived in the Egyptian desert. His life is a witness to the continuity of the desert spirituality of the 4th century. He was man who was not concerned about anything or for anyone. His only concern was for the One. His eyes were directed towards eternity. He was content with enough food sufficient to keep him alive and enough clothing to cover his nakedness. He chose God as his way as well as his means. He unintentionally attracted us to him through sharing and exchanging the many tales that thousands of people have experienced in mixed feelings of wonder, joy, and deep contemplation. The multitude of people who saw him and dealt with him have all attested to that lion who has the heart of a child. He had a clear vision and a way of life. He did not act haphazardly but his behavior was a result of deep spiritual understanding. Fr Abd el-Mesih's character combines the weakness of the human nature and the strength of the spiritual personality. He was not of a special breed of people, like anyone he was agitated, tasted pain, and suffered trials. He left all these experiences for us as an example in persevering in trials. He lived an austere ascetic life and experienced many hardships. The devil waged many wars against him but he escaped them all. All the information in this book are documented in either voice recordings or written accounts of Metropolitans, Bishops, Priests, Monks, or Lay people, who gratefully shared their stories and photos that they had for this great father. Paperback: 130 pages Publisher: St Shenouda Monastery (October 20, 2009) Language: English ISBN-10: 0980517133 ISBN-13: 978-0980517132
Land and Covenant — Paul Nadim Tarazi
"If you have lived in the Middle East since the inception of the state of Israel, or if you are a student of twentieth century Middle East history, you cannot help but take part in the debate which has produced many books on the ongoing conflict between Jews and Arabs, especially Palestinians...[Tarazi addresses this conflict] not from an historical point of view, but strictly biblical...Land and Covenant is a very scholarly and interesting biblical study, and I recommend it to all who seek the truth, objectively and without any prejudice." +Archbishop Philip Saliba, Metropolitan Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America The V. Rev. Dr. Paul Nadim Tarazi is Professor of Biblical Studies and Languages at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. He is the author of a three volume Introduction to the Old Testament, a four volume Introduction to the New Testament, Galatians: A Commentary, I Thessalonians: A Commentary, and The Chrysostom Bible: Genesis: A Commentary. His Audio Bible Commentaries on the books of the New Testament are available online through the Orthodox Center for the Advancement of Biblical Studies (OCABS).
Bodies Like Bright Stars: Saints and Relics in Russia — Robert H. Greene
This title explores popular devotion to the cult of saints in late imperial and early Soviet Russia. While the late imperial church celebrated saints as paragons of virtue and piety whose lives were to be emulated in the search for salvation, ordinary Russian Orthodox lay believers sought the assistance of the saints for mundane and worldly matters. The believers were more likely to pray to the saints for help in the concerns of health and home than for salvation. Evidence from miracle stories, devotional literature, parish records, diocesan reports, religious newspapers and magazines, and archival documents demonstrates how Orthodox believers sought to cultivate a more direct and literally hands-on relationship with their heavenly protectors by visiting saintly graves, touching and kissing their miracle-working relics, and making pledges to repay the saints for miracles rendered. Exploring patterns of popular devotion to the cult of the saints in both late imperial and early Soviet Russia, Greene argues for an interpretation of Orthodoxy as a proactive faith grounded in the needs and realities of everyday life. "Bodies like Bright Stars" makes two significant contributions to the fields of Russian history and religious studies. First, it straddles the customary historiographical dividing line of 1917, illustrating how the devotional practices associated with the cult of the saints evolved from the mid-19th century to the end of the first decade of Soviet power. Greene shows that it was the adaptability of the cult of the saints that allowed Orthodoxy to remain relevant amid great political, social, and economic change. Importantly, the book underscores the role of materiality in Russian Orthodox religious practices and emphasizes what anthropologists of religion have described as the sacrality of place. "Bodies like Bright Stars", the first book in NIU Press' "Orthodox Christian Studies Series", will be of interest to Russian historians, ...
Orthodox Pastoral Service — Kyprian Kern (Author), William C Mills (Editor), Mary Goddard (Translator)
Nearly fifty years ago, the Eastern Orthodox monk and theologian, Archimandrite Kyprian Kern, explored pertinent issues regarding pastoral ministry. Kern's writings on clericalism and problems with the abuse of power and authority in the Church, for example, are as fresh today as when they were first written. Kern is probably the least known among Orthodox theologians in the West; however, his voice is now being heard for the first time in English and hopefully will inspire and encourage a new generation of clergy and laity who seek to better understand ministry in an Orthodox Christian context. Orthodox Pastoral Service is a collection of lecture notes from Kern's classes in pastoral ministry. In this book, Kern deals with important issues such as clericalism, the importance of the Eucharist for the life of the priest, and emphasis on the intellectual, spiritual, and personal preparation for the priesthood. Finally, one could look at this book as a historical document. On this level, Kern has left us with a detailed exposition of pastoral ministry in 19th century Russia.
Finding a Hidden Church — Christopher Zugger
A wondrous tale of the underground life and revival of the Ruthenian Greek Catholic Church in the former Soviet Union. 382 pages. Paperback with many photos. Perfect Paperback Publisher: Eastern Christian Publicatios (2009) ISBN-10: 1892278928 ISBN-13: 978-1892278920
The Epistles of St Symeon the New Theologian — H. J. M. Turner
St Symeon the New Theologian (949-1022) is regarded as one of the most significant figures in Byzantine mysticism. Though a very controversial figure in his own lifetime, he is now revered both in Orthodox and other Christian traditions. After beginning his monastic life while still comparatively young, he became hegumen of the monastery of St Mamas, and held that position for several years. Many of his writings, including the Discourses and Hymns, have appeared in print, but his four epistles have not been published in their entirety until now. In these four letters, besides criticising those contending against him, Symeon writes as a pastor, concerned to give practical moral guidance. He focuses on confession, repentence, and the role of the spiritual father. H. J. M. Turner details the biographic and textual context of this scholarly annotated edition. He uses the previously unpublished Greek text established by Joseph Paramelle to provide an authoritative basis for his translation. Clearly and accessibly presented, these letters serve to reinforce our understanding of Symeon's life and work. About the Author H.J.M. Turner is an Honorary Assistant Priest at St. Botolph-Without-Bishopsgate in London.
Becoming Byzantine: Children and Childhood in Byzantium (Dumbarton Oaks Byzantine Symposia and Colloquia) — Arietta Papaconstantinou
Available September 15, 2009. Despite increased interest over the last fifty years in childhood in Byzantium, the bibliography on this topic remains rather short and generalized. Becoming Byzantine: Children and Childhood in Byzantium presents detailed information about children’s lives, and provides a basis for further study. This collection of eight articles drawn from a May 2006 Dumbarton Oaks symposium covers matters relevant to daily life such as the definition of children in Byzantine law, procreation, death, breastfeeding patterns, and material culture. Religious and political perspectives are also used to examine Byzantine views of the ideal child, and the abuse of children in monasteries. Many of these articles present the first comprehensive accounts of specific aspects of childhood in Byzantium. About the Author Arietta Papaconstantinou is Marie-Curie Fellow in Oriental Studies at Oxford University.
The Chrysostom Bible – Genesis: A Commentary — Paul Nadim Tarazi
The present Bible Commentary Series is not so much in honor of John Chrysostom as it is to continue and promote his legacy as an interpreter of the biblical texts for preaching and teaching God’s congregation, in order to prod its members to proceed on the way they started when they accepted God’s calling. Chrysostom’s virtual uniqueness is that he did not subscribe to any hermeneutic or methodology, since this would amount to introducing an extra-textual authority over the biblical texts. For him, scripture is its own interpreter. Listening to the texts time and again allowed him to realize that “call” and “read (aloud)” are not interconnected realities; rather, they are one reality since they both are renditions of the same Hebrew verb qara’. Given that words read aloud are words of instruction for one “to do them,” the only valid reaction would be to hear, listen, obey, and abide by these words. All these connotations are subsumed in the same Hebrew verb šama‘. On the other hand, these scriptural “words of life” are presented as readily understandable utterances of a father to his children (Isaiah 1:2-3). The recipients are never asked to engage in an intellectual debate with their divine instructor, or even among themselves, to fathom what he is saying. The Apostle to the Gentiles followed in the footsteps of the Prophets to Israel by handing down to them the Gospel, that is, the Law of God’s Spirit through his Christ (Romans 8:2; Galatians 6:2) as fatherly instruction (1 Corinthians 4:15). He in turn wrote readily understandable letters to be read aloud. It is in these same footsteps that Chrysostom followed, having learned from both the Prophets and Paul that the same “words of life” carry also the sentence of death at the hand of the scriptural God, ...
The Love Chapter: The Meaning of First Corinthians 13 — John Chrysostom (Author), Frederica Mathewes-Green (Foreword)
St. Paul was the first to really define love. St. John Chrysostom unpacks it. One of the most important passages in the Scriptures, First Corinthians 13 is often read and rarely followed. Medieval theologian, John Chrysostom, was called the “golden-mouthed” one, for the eloquence of his preaching. His reputation extended from his native East to the Christian West, and he is remembered today as a Church Father for the entire Church. Now available in a popular contemporary English translation for the first time, The Love Chapter makes available these most important reflections of St. John, on a most important portion of the New Testament.
Western Front of the Eastern Church: “Uniate and Orthodox Conflict in Eighteenth Century Poland, Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia” — Barbara Skinner (Jul 2009)
"This impressive volume provides valuable empirical research on the competition of the Uniate and Orthodox churches. It offers a rich new perspective on such critical issues as confessionalization, religious identity, and politics in East Europe and Russia. It is an essential monograph for scholars in the field." - Gregory Freeze, Brandeis University" Product Description This book addresses the shifting identity of Ruthenians on both sides of Orthodox/Uniate divide. The dissolution of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in the late 18th century and the incorporation of the majority of the Ruthenians - ethnic Ukrainians and Belarusians - into the Russian Empire from the backdrop for confessional history critical to modern Ukrainian, Belarusian, and Russian identities. In a region long shaped by religious and cultural tensions between the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, the creation in 1596 of the Uniate church, which retained the Eastern rite but accepted Catholic doctrine, cut a new religious fault line through Ruthenian communities that set the stage for religious and political conflict. Drawing on archival sources from Russia, Poland, and Ukraine, "The Western Front of the Eastern Church" addresses the shifting identity and fate of Ruthenians on both sides of the Orthodox/Uniate divide during the politically charged era of the partitions of Poland. Skinner investigates diverging components of these faith communities in the 18th century, the changing political landscape as the Russian Empire expanded its borders, and the religious tensions and violence that occurred as a result. She reveals cultural influences that shaped Ukrainian and Belarusian identities and sheds light on aspects of Russian imperial identity and mythology as it laid claim to its western borderlands. The confessional focus critiques the nationalist perspective that has dominated the presentation of Ukrainian and Belarusian history, and Skinner's treatment brings the region into the broader discussion of confessional development in Europe as ...
The Jesus Prayer: The Ancient Desert Prayer that Tunes the Heart to God — Frederica Mathewes-Green
Available October 21, 2009. In the earliest centuries of faith, Christians in the deserts of Palestine and Africa sought a short prayer that could be easily repeated, in order to acquire the habit of “prayer without ceasing.” The result was The Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me.” This jewel of Eastern Christianity aims at enabling a person to be in God’s presence, rather than to focus on feelings or thoughts about God. The first section of The Jesus Prayer offers a concise overview of the history, theology, and spirituality of Orthodoxy, so that the Prayer can be understood in its native context. Following, is a conversational question-and-answer format that takes the reader through practical steps for adopting this profound practice in everyday life.
In the World, Yet Not of the World: Social and Global Initiatives of Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew — Patriarch Bartholomew and John Chryssavgis (ed)
[Available November 2009]. In the World, Yet Not of the World represents a selection of major addresses and significant messages as well as public statements by His All Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, “first among equals” and spiritual leader of the world’s 300 million Orthodox Christians. The Patriarch is as comfortable preaching about the spiritual legacy of the Orthodox Church as he is promoting sociopolitical issues of his immediate cultural environment and praying for respect toward Islam or for global peace. As these original documents reveal, the tenure of the Ecumenical Patriarch has been characterized by inter-Orthodox cooperation, inter-Christian dialogue, and interreligious understanding. He has traveled more extensively than any other Orthodox Patriarch in history, exchanging official visitations with numerous ecclesiastical and state dignitaries. In particular, because he is a citizen of Turkey and the leader of a Christian minority in a predominantly Muslim nation, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s personal experience endows him with a unique perspective on religious tolerance and interfaith dialogue. These documents are drawn from his prominent leadership roles as primary spiritual leader of the Orthodox Christian world and transnational figure of global significance—influential roles that become more vital each day. Published together here for the first time, the texts reveal the Ecumenical Patriarch as a bridge builder and peacemaker. One of his catchphrases is “War in the name of religion is war against religion.” Over the past eighteen years, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew’s inclination and intention have been to address the most difficult issues facing the world—the deep and increasing mistrust between East and West, the decay and widening destruction of the natural environment, as well as the sharp divisions among the various Christian confessions and diverse faith communities—whether on religious, racial, or cultural levels. This book reveals the powerful influence of a spiritual institution from the unique perspective of a Christian ...
Eastern Orthodox and Anglicans: Diplomacy, Theology, and the Politics of Interwar Ecumenism — Bryn Geffert (Jul 2009)
Available October 15, 2009. Pre-order Price Guarantee! Order now and if the Amazon.com price decreases between your order time and the end of the day of the release date, you'll receive the lowest price.
The Life of Saint Brigid: Abbess of Kildare — Jane G. Meyer (Author), Zachary Lynch (Illustrator)
Brigid was a young and lively girl, often scolded for giving away more than she should to the beggars at her doorstep. From butter, to meat, to her father's sword, she gave when she was asked, her heart breaking for those in need. Eventually, Brigid grew to be abbess of a community of thousands, her love and care earning her a place as one of the two most beloved saints of Irish history and one of the great female saints of all Christendom. The lyrical text and Celtic-inspired illustrations make The Life of Saint Brigid an inspiring story of love and generosity for children of any age, particularly for those who admire the faith and culture of Ancient Ireland. Other Christian Orthodox childrens books: The Abbot and I: As Told by Josie the Cat, Alyosha's Apple: A Tale of Old Russia, Baby Moses, Jonah's Journey to the Deep, The Life of St. Patrick: Enlightener of the Irish, The Monk Who Grew Prayer, Moses' Flight From Egypt. About the Author Jane G Meyer, author and editor, lives in Santa Barbara, California. She's an admirer of the Gaelic language and Irish culture. After studying the life of Saint Brigid and visiting the land Brigid helped change, she wanted to share her love of the saint with children. She hopes others will be inspired to love and give as Saint Brigid did. Go to Jane G. Meyer's website.
Living in God’s Creation: The Ecological Vision of Orthodox Christianity — Elizabeth Theokritoff (Jun 2009)
Few realize how ecological the vision of Orthodox Christianity really is. Yet it portrays creation as an epiphany of God, and the human person as a workshop of unity, a connecting link uniting creation and Creator. This lofty ideal is to be achieved at a very practical level: we are to manifest our love for God, for other people, and for the world, through "the right use of material things." To communicate this vision, Elizabeth Theokritoff draws on ancient sources—the Fathers, the liturgy, and saints' lives—on modern commentators, and on practical examples from our lived experience. She presents fresh wisdom and insight into Orthodox tradition in a way that is both accessible and relevant to theologians and non-theologians. The thematic arrangement makes it a convenient resource for teachers. It is compelling reading, and demonstrates that environmental concerns have deep roots in Christian tradition. Elizabeth Theokritoff was educated at Millfield School and Somerville and Wolfson colleges, Oxford, where she completed her doctorate in liturgical theology under the supervision of Bishop Kallistos (Ware). She is an independent scholar and freelance theological translator from Greek, and has served as a visiting lecturer at the Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies in Cambridge. She has had a particular interest in theology of creation since 1988, when she served as visiting Orthodox Tutor at the Ecumenical Institute, Bossey, Switzerland, for the Graduate School on "Justice, peace and the integrity of creation." Contents Foreword Preface and Acknowledgments Introduction Themes in the Church Fathers The Ascetic Tradition and the Use of the World The Saints and Their Environment God’s Creation in Orthodox Worship Sacramental Life and Sacramental Living Themes in Contemporary Orthodox Theology In Conclusion - Living in God’s Creation Excerpt from Themes in the Church Fathers: If we want to explore Christian teaching about the created world, where do we start? There is a bewildering variety of assertions about the Christian ...
The Orthodox Christian World — Augustine Casid
Available October 1, 2009. Orthodox Christianity is the main historical inheritor of the Byzantine tradition of Christianity, and is still practised around the world. The two main strands are Greek Orthodox and Russian Orthodox, but there are thriving communities in countries are varied as Egypt (the Copts), Armenia, and Romania, with strong diasporic communities in Western Europe, North America, Australia, and elsewhere. This book offers a compelling overview of the Orthodox World, covering the main regional traditions and the ways in which the tradition has become global; key figures from John Chrysostom to the contemporary Fathers of Mount Athos and a rich selection of key themes, including theology, monasticism, iconography and the arts, pastoral care and Orthodoxy through the eyes of travellers. The contributors are drawn from the Orthodox community worldwide, providing an innovative and illuminating approach to the subject, ideal for students and scholars alike.
Hellenic Temples and Christian Churches: A Concise History of the Religious Cultures of Greece from Antiquity to the Present — Vasilios Makrides
Available September 1, 2009. Covering an expanse of more than three thousand years,Hellenic Temples and Christian Churches charts, in one concise volume, the history of Greece’s religious cultures from antiquity all the way through to present, post-independence Greece. Focusing on the encounter and interaction between Hellenism and (Orthodox) Christianity, which is the most salient feature of Greece’s religious landscape—influencing not only Greek religious history, but Greek culture and history as a whole—Vasilios N. Makrides considers the religious cultures of Greece both historically, from the ancient Greek through the Byzantine and the Ottoman periods up to the present, and systematically, by locating common characteristics and trajectoriesacross time. Weaving other traditions including Judaism and Islam into his account, Makrides highlights the patterns of development, continuity, and change that have characterized the country’s long and unique religious history. Contrary to the arguments of those who posit a single, exclusive religious culture for Greece, Makrides demonstrates the diversity and plurality that has characterized Greece’s religious landscape across history. Beautifully written and easy to navigate, Hellenic Temples and Christian Churches offers an essential foundation for students, scholars, and the public on Greece’s long religious history, from ancient Greece and the origins of Christianity to the formation of "Helleno-Christianity" in modern Greece.
God Knows There’s Need: Christian Responses to Poverty — Susan R. Holman
The subject of poverty is rich in meanings and associations, among them hunger, stench, disease, disfigurement, shame, revulsion, and loss. It is a topic that has preoccupied the mind and hearts of the faithful since the inception of Christianity. In this insightful volume, Susan R. Holman blends personal memoir and scholarly research into ancient writings to illuminate the age-old issues of need, poverty, and social justice in the history of the Christian tradition. Holman weaves together stories from late antiquity with three conceptual paradigms that can bridge the gap between historical story and modern action: sensing need, sharing the world, and embodying sacred kingdom. In the first four chapters, the author explores how personal need influences the way that we look at the world and the needs of others. Beginning with the story of her own encounters with need and her discovery of the world of early Christian texts on poverty and religious response, the author re-tells these historical narratives in new ways, and traces their influence on post-Reformation history. The second half of the book uses a complex amalgam of images and stories to consider several recurrent themes in any religious responses to poverty and need: poverty and gender, the dilemma of justice in material distribution, ascetic models of social activism and contemplation, the language of human rights and the "common good," challenges of hospitality, and the role of liturgy in constructing a vision for restorative righteousness. Tying these historical texts to modern responses to need, Holman begins with her own encounters with need and describes her discovery of the existence of never-before-translated early Christian texts on responses to poverty, hunger, and disease. Holman's embrace of the historical perspective will prove useful in interdenominational and ecumenical dialogue on religious responses to social welfare needs. Through their sensitive exploration of nuances and ...
Orthodox Christianity At The Crossroad: A Great Council Of The Church? When And Why — George Matsoukas
The purpose of publishing the papers presented at the Twentieth Annual Meeting of Orthodox Christian Laity is to improve "lay and clergy literacy" on the conference topic of "The Need for a Great and Holy Council." The papers are presented with the hope that the information will motivate the faithful to participate in the conciliar decision-making process that moves the Church forward on the issue of developing the council or another appropriate meeting. The forces, factors, and history that inhibit calling a council are presented in these papers. The hope of what can be accomplished when brothers work in synergy with each other and the Holy Spirit is also evident. The renewal of Orthodox Christianity and the renewal of its witness in the contemporary world of global religious pluralism depend on such a meeting. The calling of a council free of worldly, political, power, turf, ego and ethnic considerations will renew the "Living Tradition" of Orthodoxy, which is its Apostolic calling. The world is looking for this "Living Tradition," which cannot be well-expressed by a fragmented Orthodox Church. A council is a step toward renewing the Church and making it whole in order to teach this "Living Tradition." It is interesting to note -- as this collection of papers points out-- that the children of Orthodox Christians living in America have come together as Americans, in order to remain Orthodox, through campus ministry programs that they are developing. The young adults are leading the way to Orthodox unity. Is it not time for the Church elders, the hierarchs, the clergy, and the faithful to look at the example of unity that the youth are providing and move ahead to do what is necessary to renew the Church through this conciliar council? ABOUT THE EDITOR George E. Matsoukas is Executive Director of Orthodox ...
Armenian Golgotha — Grigoris Balakian
On the night of April 24, 1915, Grigoris Balakian, an Armenian priest, and more than two hundred other Armenian politicians and intellectuals were arrested in Constantinople. Soon, Armenians across Turkey were massacred or forced to join a death march to the desert of Der Zor. Balakian walked among the displaced for months before he fled, disguising himself variously as a German engineer, a soldier, and a worker in the vineyards; he began this book while in hiding. (It was published in Armenian in 1922 and in 1959; the translator is Balakian’s great-nephew.) Both a memoir and an attempt at a history of the genocide, it assumes considerable familiarity with Ottoman politics, but remains fascinating first-hand testimony to a monumental crime. Copyright ©2008 Click here to subscribe to The New Yorker Review “Read this heartbreaking book. Armenian Golgotha describes the suffering, agony and massacre of innumerable Armenian families almost a century ago; its memory must remain a lesson for more than one generation.” - Elie Wiesel “Grigoris Balakian's Armenian Golgotha is a powerful, moving account of the Armenian Genocide, a story that needs to be known, and is told here with a sweep of experience and wealth of detail that is as disturbing as it is irrefutable.” - Sir Martin Gilbert “In this extraordinary account, Grigoris Balakian makes astute psychological observations about himself and his fellow prisoners, and equally astute interpretations of the behavior of Turkish perpetrators and German collaborators in the Armenian genocide. His writing is clear and compelling, as rendered in sensitive translation. He has a keen sense of history, and his extensive travels enable him to record a tragic European panorama. This book will become a classic, both for its depiction of a much denied genocide and its humane and brilliant witness to what human beings can endure and overcome.” - Robert ...
The Annointing of the Sick — Paul Meyendorf
Based on an exacting investigation into the history of the rite, the author makes compelling proposals for recapturing its original spirit in parish life, at a time when the care of the sick a matter of grave concern. --V. Rev. Fr. M Daniel Findikyan Ph.D. St Nersess Armenian Seminary Description The healing ministry of Jesus Christ is a primary task of the Church. This work describes the healing ministry of the Church as it is expressed in Scripture, Tradition, and the liturgical life, focusing particularly on the sacrament of the anointing of the sick. The author discusses both the history and theology of this sacrament, which has its roots in the Tradition of the Church as expressed in James 5.14 15: Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. The theology of this rite embraces the whole person and addresses the connection between sin and sickness, and the disintegrating power of illness on a person and the reintegrating power of grace. A new translation of the rite is appended, as well as an abbreviated version for use in a hospital or home setting. About the Author Paul Meyendorff is a leading Orthodox specialist in the history, theology and practice of the Orthodox liturgy; The Father Alexander Schmemann Professor of Liturgical Theology at St Vladimir s Orthodox Theological Seminary; the editor of St Vladimir s Orthodox Theological Quarterly; the Series Editor for the Orthodox Liturgy Series; and the author of Russia, Ritual and Reform.
Exegesis and Hermeneutics in the Churches of the East: Select Papers from the SBL Meeting in San Diego, 2007 — Vahan S. Hovhanessian (Author), Vahan S. Hovhanessian (Editor)
Book synopsis Exegesis and Hermeneutics in the Churches of the East contains the proceedings of the Bible in the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Traditions unit of the Society of Biblical Literature's (SBL) 2007 meeting in San Diego, California. Biblical professors and scholars from the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox traditions (the latter including Aramaic, Syriac, Armenian, Arabic, Georgian, and Coptic, among others) gathered to engage in critical study of the role of the Bible in eastern Christianity, past and present. The collection of articles in Exegesis and Hermeneutics in the Churches of the East examines the latest scholarly findings in the field of the utilization and interpretation of the Bible in the Christian communities in the East during the first five centuries of Christianity. They offer critical evaluations of the early church's hermeneutical and exegetical tools and methodologies. Contents Contents: Paul N. Tarazi: Introduction - Dale Loepp: The Adamic Creation Tradition in the Seventeenth Demonstration of Aphrahat - J. W. Childers: Disciple of Scripture: Character and Exegesis in Aphrahat - Karen S. Winslow: The Exegesis of Exodus by Ephrem the Syrian - Michael C. Legaspi: Hearing the Scriptures with St. Ephrem: Notes on a Non-Western Biblical Interpreter - Bradley Nassif: Antiochene THeorhi? In John Chrysostom's Exegesis - Matthew W. G. Francis: «Blessed Is the One Who Reads Aloud...». The Book of Revelation in Orthodox Lectionary Traditions - Eugenia Scarvelis Constantinou: Apocalypse Patchwork: Lost Scraps of Ancient Eastern Apocalypse Interpretation Preserved by Andrew of Caesarea - Timothy S. Clark: Ezekiel's Temple and Mary's Virginity: A Peculiar Strand in Eastern Orthodox Interpetation of Old Testament Sanctuary Motifs - Erik W. Kolb: Monastic Duty and the Biblical Past: Ascetic Exegesis in Shenoute's «Abraham Our Father» - Dragos Giulea: Melito, That New Enoch, the Divine Scribe: Typological Interpretation as Revelation of the Divine Mysteries in Peri Pascha - ...
Matthew and The Canon Paul Nadim Tarazi
This is the fourth and final volume of Fr. Tarazi's New Testament introduction tetralogy. In addition to his exegesis on the Book of Matthew, Fr. Tarazi discusses the formation of the New Testament canon and the Gospel of Matthew, which he argues was intentionally written as the closing book within this canon. "Fr. Tarazi's application of his investigative, creative, kerygmatic, canon exegesis has generated a manuscript filled with unique interpretations and bold positions on the Gospel according to Matthew and on the New Testament canon." --John Fotopoulos, Ph.D. Associate Professor of New Testament and Early Christian Literature, Saint Mary's College, Notre Dame "Matthew and the Canon is the crowning achievement of the New Testament series...As in the preceding volumes, Tarazi does not offer a conventional introduction to Matthew, but rather comments on each pericope with precise exegetical notes. By doing this, Tarazi allows his reader to be introduced to the Gospel text, rather than to the latest theories of modern criticism." -- Daniel Alberto Ayuch, Associate Professor of New Testament, University of Balamand
The Paradise of the Holy Fathers: Volume 2 — Wallis Budge (Translator)
The Paradise of the Fathers is the classic compilation of the lives and teachings of the early monastic saints. It has been said that for a monastic to achieve perfection there are only two books needed: the Bible and the Paradise of the Fathers. This volume is translated from a Syriac manuscript discovered in 1888 by Dr. Ernest A. Wallis Budge.This is a revised and edited edition Volume II: Contains the Sayings of the Fathers and Questions and Answers about the monastic life. Paperback: 364 pages Publisher: St Shenouda Monastery (January 9, 2009) Language: English ISBN-10: 0980517125 ISBN-13: 978-0980517125
Touching Heaven: Discovering Orthodox Christianity on the Island of Valaam — John Oliver and Jonah Paffhausen
"Deep in a northern Russian forest of jade and brown, far from any hint of civilization, Valaam monastery sinks into the seasons of the year as it has for a thousand years before…." So begins the story of John Oliver, a young American on a journey of discovery— a journey that leads him to an ancient Russian monastery, a place of peace and a place of struggle. For on Valaam, he encounters the great depths of Orthodox Christianity and is reminded that the Christian life is not for the faint of heart. And on Valaam, the treasure of stillness requires a fierce guarding. "A gripping...account of what drew John Oliver into the deep waters of Christianity and made him an Orthodox Christian." -- Jim Forest "This marvelous book ...leads us inward and upward, until for a moment, at least, we touch heaven." -- Fr. John Breck Touching Heaven is a lovely book, quiet and contemplative, and full of peaceful revelations." -- Frederica Matthewes-Green
Beginnings: Ancient Christian Readings of the Biblical Creation Narratives — Peter C. Bouteneff
What are we missing when we look at the creation narratives of Genesis only or primarily through the lens of modern discourse about science and religion? Theologian Peter Bouteneff explores how first-millennium Christian understandings of creation can inform current thought in the church and in the public square. He reaches back into the earliest centuries of our era to recover the meanings that early Jewish and Christian writers found in the stories of the six days of creation and of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Readers will find that their forbears in the faith saw in the Genesis narrative not simply an account of origins but also a rich teaching about the righteousness of God, the saving mission of Christ, and the destiny of the human creature. "Beginnings takes us back to the beginning of the scriptural creation narrative and to the beginning of the Christian appropriation of this narrative. The reader is initiated into precursors of the Christian tradition (especially the Septuagint and Philo) and then guided through the early Christian thinkers (especially Origen) whose writings underpin current theological reflection on Genesis 1-3. Beginnings allows twenty-first-century readers to wrestle with issues ranging from creation and the image of God to anthropology and gender--all in the context of the community of faith that found its beginning, middle, and end in Jesus Christ. Peter Bouteneff has done the church a valuable service in this focused study."--Joel C. Elowsky, managing editor, Ancient Christian Commentary on Scripture, Drew University
The Heavenly Banquet: Understanding the Divine Liturgy — Fr. Emmanuel Hatzidakis
Product Description A book much needed, and unlike anything that has appeared in the English language on this subject, The Heavenly Banquet is more than a liturgical commentary. With an abundance of copiously documented biblical citations and rich patristic references, the Divine Liturgy is explained line by line, word by word. This book unhesitantly answers all kinds of complex liturgical, social, and theological questions. In depth, yet easy to follow, written in simple, understandable language, this book will aid Catechists and instructors who can draw from its abundant material for presentation and discussion. This work will be of great benefit to any Orthodox Christian who wants to obtain a better understanding of the Divine Liturgy. The richness and the depth of the subjects treated herein make The Heavenly Banquet a treasure. Content Features 80 Special Topic Studies (40 "Mini Studies" & 40 "A Word About..." studies) * A self-contained extensive Introduction * The complete Divine Liturgy text, indexed for quick reference * Thorough, detailed Index of words and names * Color-coded Index of all Biblical citations * Parallel Biblical accounts of the institution of the Eucharist * The complete Anaphora from the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great * 1281 footnotes * 305 bibliographical sources Congratulations and many thanks for publishing the book. It is impressive as well as useful. [...] Certainly the Lord was with you as you worked to make sure that no one can any longer say, “I don’t get anything from the Liturgy!” The Lord Bless! +Nathaniel Archbishop It is a very handsome edition, appealing and impressive to the eye. I am certain the reader will be edified by your work, which shows long and tedious study of the material as indicated by the extensive bibliography. Congratulations! Fr. Alkiviadis Calivas This superb book introduces one to the inexhaustible riches of the Divine ...
The Orthodox Study Bible: Ancient Christianity Speaks to Today’s World
The FIRST EVER Orthodox Study Bible presents the Bible of the early church and the church of the early Bible. Orthodox Christianity is the face of ancient Christianity to the modern world and embraces the second largest body of Christians in the world. In this first-of-its-kind study Bible, the Bible is presented with commentary from the ancient Christian perspective that speaks to those Christians who seek a deeper experience of the roots of their faith. Features Include: * Old Testament newly translated from the Greek text of the Septuagint, including the Deuterocanon * New Testament from the New King James Version * Commentary drawn from the early Church Christians * Easy-to-Locate liturgical readings * Book Introductions and Outlines * Subject Index * Full-color Icons * Full-color Maps
Surprised by Christ: My Journey from Judaism to Orthodox Christianity — Fr. A. James Bernstein
Raised in Queens by formerly Orthodox Jewish parents whose faith had been undermined by the Holocaust, Arnold Bernstein went on his own personal quest for spiritual meaning. He was ready to accept God in whatever form He chose to reveal Himself and that form turned out to be Christ. But Bernstein soon perceived discrepancies in the various forms of Protestant belief that surrounded him, and so his quest continued -- this time for the true Church. Surprised by Christ combines an engrossing memoir of one man s life in historic times and situations from the Six-Day War to the Civil Rights Movement to the Jesus Movement in Berkeley with an examination of the distinctives of Orthodox theology that make the Orthodox Church the true home not only for Christian Jews, but for all who seek to know God as fully as He may be known. Review Fascinating. It reminds us again of the sovereignty of God, and his desire to reach every one of his beloved children, no matter where they are. --Frederica Mathewes-Green, Beliefnet columnist and author of "Facing East: A Pilgrim s Journey into the Mysteries of Orthodoxy" In life you meet a handful of people whose stories crash through the usual categories of human experience and form a new kind of stand-alone narrative. Enter: Fr. James Bernstein. Son of a Jewish rabbi, national chess champion, leader with Jews for Jesus in Berkeley, Orthodox Christian priest -- whew! You will love and be greatly encouraged by his unusual story of life in Christ. --Fr. Peter E. Gillquist, author of "Becoming Orthodox" In sharing his "surprise" with us, Fr. James Bernstein shows that he is a Hebrew prophet in the definition of prophecy provided by that other "Hebrew born of Hebrews" who knew the same "surprise." In sharing his story and convictions, Fr ...
Byzantine Jewry in the Mediterranean Economy — Joshua Holo
Using primary sources, Joshua Holo uncovers the day-to-day workings of the Byzantine-Jewish economy in the middle Byzantine period. Built on a web of exchange systems both exclusive to the Jewish community and integrated in society at large, this economy forces a revision of Jewish history in the region. Paradoxically, the two distinct economic orientations, inward and outward, simultaneously advanced both the integration of the Jews into the larger Byzantine economy and their segregation as a self-contained body economic. Dr Holo finds that the Jews routinely leveraged their internal, even exclusive, systems of law and culture to break into - occasionally to dominate - Byzantine markets. In doing so, they challenge our concept of Diaspora life as a balance between the two competing impulses of integration and segregation. The success of this enterprise, furthermore, qualifies the prevailing claim of Jewish economic decline during the Commercial Revolution. Book Description Joshua Holo's Byzantine-Jewish economic history challenges two prevailing historical claims. Byzantine Jews, leveraging exclusive trade structures to advance their integration into Byzantine markets, belie the assumption of segregation and integration as competing forces. Moreover, this mercantile success also contradicts the claim of Jewish economic decline during the Commercial Revolution.
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