The parish requires a proper Christian structure and administration in order to provide worship, education, pastoral care, spiritual direction, evangelism, and philanthropy. The head of the parish in its total life must be the chief parish priest (Rector) who is ordained and assigned by the diocesan bishop. This does not mean that the parish priest … [Read more…]
In the Bulgakov Handbook for servers it states: On the feast of Transfiguration grapes are blessed, and in those places in [such as] Russia where grapes do not grow apples (or other fruit) are blessed. The custom to offer fruit at an appropriate time is undoubtedly ancient, and in the Christian Church is partly the … [Read more…]
One of the more unique aspects to a hierarchal liturgy in the Orthodox Church is the vesting of the bishop on the cathedra in the center of the Temple before all the people. This service is also done by a priest usually well before anyone comes to the parish (and in the altar). Vestments hearken … [Read more…]
The bishop is the first and highest degree of the clergy in the Orthodox Church (επίσκοπος or episkopos in Greek, which means overseer). A bishop is the successor to the Apostles in the service and government of the Church. The bishop thus serves in place and as a “type” of Christ in the Church. No … [Read more…]