Department of Religious Education BlogDepartment of Religious Education Bloghttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/marriage-and-family/-/asset_publisher/iEKzdvHjHr0e/rss2024-03-29T14:25:46Z2024-03-29T14:25:46ZThe Apostles’ Life: No Pain No GainMelanie Melanie DiStefanohttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fthe-apostles-life-no-pain-no-ga-1%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5312075%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5312075&entryId=5312073&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2021-05-19T10:06:56Z2020-06-26T06:23:00ZPresvytera Melanie DiStefano It is arguably one of the most “under-rated” Feast days of our Ecclesiastical Year – The Feast of the Apostles; and yet, it is through these 12 men and the line of their successors throughout the ages that the Holy Spirit works with great power to establish and grow Jesus Christ’s Church – to grow us, the members of His Body. Perhaps because it comes at a time when summer activities are chosen over...Melanie Melanie DiStefano2020-06-26T06:23:00ZWhat Three Days Without Running Water Taught Me About Being ThankfulFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fwhat-three-days-without-running-water-taught-me-about-being-thankful%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5304643%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5304643&entryId=5304641&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2020-06-23T13:58:17Z2020-06-23T13:34:00ZMarianna McMullen Just a few weeks ago, my family was winding down from enjoying a beautiful Sunday together. It was a gorgeous, sunny day and we spent most of it outdoors enjoying the sunshine and breeze. Just as I was getting our toddler, Samuel, ready for his bath I heard what sounded like bacon sizzling in a pan. <img alt=""...Family Care2020-06-23T13:34:00ZWhat Does God Have in Store for Us?Family Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fwhat-does-god-have-in-store-for-u-2%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5232198%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5232198&entryId=5232196&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2020-05-12T11:40:55Z2020-05-12T11:24:00ZThere was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called theItalian Regiment, a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who gave alms generously to the people, and prayed to God always. About the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!” And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it,...Family Care2020-05-12T11:24:00ZThe Myrrh-bearing Women: Fearless FemalesFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fthe-myrrh-bearing-women-%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5210264%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5210264&entryId=5210262&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2020-04-30T13:25:18Z2020-04-30T13:03:00ZChrist is risen! This Sunday we commemorate the Myrrh-bearing Women - how they loved our Lord and helped him after his Crucifixion. This day is like Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day rolled into one for Orthodox Christians around the world. We celebrate the fearlessness of these women setting off to anoint the Lord’s body with oil and wrap Him in clean linen. We marvel at the Mystery revealed at the Tomb by the Angel of the Lord as he asks them, “Why seek the living...Family Care2020-04-30T13:03:00ZConsensus ParentingFr. Alexander Goussetishttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fconsensus-parenting%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5206267%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5206267&entryId=5206265&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2020-04-30T13:55:18Z2020-04-28T14:15:00ZChrist is risen! During this Pascha season we begin, liturgically, reading from the Book of Acts. This New Testament book reads like an adventure story: the first century Church, the excitement of Pentecost, the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ! The other day I spent time reading Acts 15, which is often titled The Council in Jerusalem. The chapter forms the foundation of Church governance and how issues are discussed and decisions are made. The dispute that the council...Fr. Alexander Goussetis2020-04-28T14:15:00ZI Surrender!...to MotherhoodFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fi-surrender-to-motherhood%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5115484%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5115484&entryId=5115482&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2020-01-21T12:48:57Z2020-01-15T12:20:00ZIt is a miraculous gift from God to be able to bring a child into this world, one that I thank Him for every single day. I never thought I was capable of this type of overwhelming love until I met my little Samuel James on the day he was born. I would move mountains for that kid…but make no mistake, having a child is frieking hard. Before we had kids, our life was our own. We could do what we wanted, when we wanted without thinking too much about it. Now, our son rules our life:...Family Care2020-01-15T12:20:00ZTheophany Reflections for the Special Need’s ParentMelanie Melanie DiStefanohttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Ftheophany-reflections-for-the-special-need-s-pare-1%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5109340%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5109340&entryId=5109338&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2021-05-19T10:06:24Z2020-01-06T16:41:00ZFor much of my son’s nearly 16-year lifespan, I have begged for miracles. Many I have received, and countless have always been - though I took them for granted. His struggles often help me to see how miraculous the human body is and how amazing our God is Who created it. At times though, I long for him to know health and wholeness – to be free. I long to hear spoken words come out of his mouth, to see him intersect and play with cousins and peers, instead of lingering nearby or in the...Melanie Melanie DiStefano2020-01-06T16:41:00ZSaint Sophia’s Holy Paradox: Loving God First Is Loving Your Children MoreMelanie Melanie DiStefanohttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fsaint-sophia-s-holy-paradox-loving-god-first-is-loving-your-children-mo-2%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5078168%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5078168&entryId=5078166&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2019-09-17T12:21:11Z2019-09-16T11:56:00ZBy Presvytera Melanie DiStefano “Anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” (Matt 10:37) When I was a young adult, and newly zealous in my faith in Christ these words of Christ’s did not seem hard to me. There was no one I could perceive loving more than Him – even my parents whom I cherished. I was...Melanie Melanie DiStefano2019-09-16T11:56:00ZIf You Believe, You Will BecomeMelanie Melanie DiStefanohttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fif-you-believe-you-will-become%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5066579%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5066579&entryId=5066577&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2019-08-06T11:54:45Z2019-08-06T11:49:00ZIf You Believe, You Will Become Jordan Peterson is a modern day author and clinical psychologist notoriously featured in the media because of his outspoken views on controversial issues. Peterson uses biblical themes and stories when he expounds upon his views, so a logical question often is asked of him, “Do you believe in God?” In an interview with Dennis Prager, Jordan attempted to explain why he is reluctant to answer this question...Melanie Melanie DiStefano2019-08-06T11:49:00ZThe Paraklesis ServiceFr. Alexander Goussetishttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fthe-paraklesis-servi-1%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5055163%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5055163&entryId=5055161&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2020-08-04T09:25:27Z2019-07-29T13:10:00ZFr. Alex Goussetis One of the beautiful characteristics of the Orthodox faith is the liturgical cycle of services. Worship in the Church is a rhythmic pattern of fast periods leading to a feast. The liturgical cycle allows time for preparation, reflection, and then . . . celebration! On August 15th, Orthodox Christians celebrate the Dormition or Falling Asleep of the Theotokos. This feast honors the Virgin...Fr. Alexander Goussetis2019-07-29T13:10:00ZA Delightful Surprise Part IIFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fa-delightful-surprise-2%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5050683%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5050683&entryId=5050681&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2019-07-11T13:25:43Z2019-07-11T13:17:00Z(Read Part I of "A Delightful Surprise" here) Prayer in Family Life: Definition of a few terms used in this reflection: *Symantron-- a large wooden plank held in the player's left hand and rhythmically struck with a wooden mallet, calling the monastic family to worship *Koumboskini-- a prayer rope made up of woven knots, with each knot corresponding to...Family Care2019-07-11T13:17:00ZA House Divided: A Family’s Fight for Vincent Lambert’s Life, and DeathMelanie Melanie DiStefanohttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fa-house-divided-a-family-s-fight-for-vincent-lambert-s-life-and-death%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5050368%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5050368&entryId=5050366&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2019-07-12T08:59:20Z2019-07-10T16:57:00ZYou may be following the story in the news of late of the French man, Vincent Lambert, whose injuries in a 2008 car crash left him brain damaged and a quadriplegic. His parents have been seeking international legal recourse to prevent “his assassination” (as deemed by his...Melanie Melanie DiStefano2019-07-10T16:57:00ZThe Example of Saint Sampson: Encouragement for the Caregiver’s SoulMelanie Melanie DiStefanohttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fthe-example-of-saint-sampson-encouragement-for-the-caregiver-s-so-2%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5048462%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5048462&entryId=5048460&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2021-05-19T10:20:20Z2019-06-27T14:26:00ZBy Presvytera Melanie DiStefano “Being a physician, he came to Constantinople, where he so distinguished himself for his…love for the sick and the poor…” St. Sampson’s love for the sick and the poor is a defining characteristic of his holiness. How contrary to our modern worldview this is! At the first sign of sickness or physical “weakness” our world is ready to ignore, discard, abuse, or destroy those who are afflicted. Be...Melanie Melanie DiStefano2019-06-27T14:26:00ZPrune Your SoulFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fprune-your%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D5040440%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D5040440&entryId=5040438&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2021-05-19T10:19:51Z2019-06-14T13:05:00ZI am an amateur gardener at best. We have a few flower bushes among which are my favorite – roses! How I love my rose bushes! There is little else like a newly blooming rose that can inspire awe in my heart and a love for the beauty of God’s creation. I recently, FINALLY, heeded popular gardening advice to give a thorough pruning to my bushes. The noticeable results got me thinking about the spiritual truths that can be reaped through the experience of caring for plants. <p...Family Care2019-06-14T13:05:00ZSuper Bowl SundayFr. Alexander Goussetishttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fsuper-bowl-sunday%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D4926499%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D4926499&entryId=4926497&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2019-01-29T12:46:20Z2019-01-28T13:08:00ZSunday is a high holy day. No, it is not Christmas or Pascha. Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday, a major feast day for those who follow the religion called football. Sarcasm aside, I wonder if there are a few parallels between the religion of...Fr. Alexander Goussetis2019-01-28T13:08:00ZA Delightful Surprise Part IFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fa-delightful-surprise%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D4886181%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D4886181&entryId=4886179&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2019-07-11T13:28:11Z2018-10-31T13:46:00ZI recently had the opportunity to spend a week at the Convent of the Annunciation in Ormylia, a monastery of over 100 nuns in northern Greece. My purpose was to retreat: to be refreshed and renewed in Christ through entering the daily rhythm of monastic life (prayer, worship, work, rest, fellowship). However, God had more in store for this visit. I did return home refreshed and renewed, but to my delight and surprise, I also learned a lot about family life, things I wish I had been more...Family Care2018-10-31T13:46:00ZThe Christian HomeFamily Carehttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fthe-christian-home%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D4846588%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D4846588&entryId=4846586&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2018-07-10T12:41:38Z2018-07-10T12:17:00ZRev. Dr. Alexander Goussetis Director, Center for Family Care of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese The family is a microcosm of the entire Church, a most sacred place where relationships with one another are cultivated in the love of Jesus Christ. -Archbishop Demetrios, Geron of America While parish priests, religious educators, and youth workers share...Family Care2018-07-10T12:17:00ZChildlike vs. ChildishFr. Alexander Goussetishttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fchildlike-vs-childish%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D4780974%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D4780974&entryId=4780972&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2018-05-30T09:39:00Z2018-04-12T19:07:00ZChildlike vs. Childish In the Gospel of St. Mark, Jesus states: “’Let the children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such that the kingdom of God belongs. Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a child will never enter it.’ And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.” What is it about children that Jesus wants us to emulate? Before we investigate...Fr. Alexander Goussetis2018-04-12T19:07:00ZWhat is Love?George Tsongranishttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fwhat-is-love%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D4717178%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D4717178&entryId=4717176&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2018-03-05T12:32:12Z2018-02-13T21:43:00Z“I love your new SUV!” “I love this restaurant!” “I love that movie’s soundtrack.” Countless times, I have expressed these types of sentiments. Perhaps in my eagerness to describe a sincere appreciation for things, I casually say I love them. As innocent as this may appear, I begin to suspect that the...George Tsongranis2018-02-13T21:43:00ZWho Brought You to Christ?Fr. Alexander Goussetishttps://blogs.goarch.org/pt/c/blogs/find_entry?p_l_id=3702519&noSuchEntryRedirect=https%3A%2F%2Fblogs.goarch.org%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Fblog%2Fwho-brought-you-to-christ-%3F_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%3D4698073%26_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_redirect%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fblogs.goarch.org%252Fpt%252Fmarriage-and-family%253Fp_p_id%253Dcom_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e%2526p_p_lifecycle%253D0%2526p_p_state%253Dnormal%2526p_p_mode%253Dview%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_cur%253D0%2526p_r_p_resetCur%253Dfalse%2526_com_liferay_asset_publisher_web_portlet_AssetPublisherPortlet_INSTANCE_iEKzdvHjHr0e_assetEntryId%253D4698073&entryId=4698071&redirect=%2Fpt%2Fmarriage-and-family%2F-%2Fasset_publisher%2FiEKzdvHjHr0e%2Frss2018-02-16T15:51:29Z2018-01-11T15:12:00ZWho Brought You to Christ? Growing up I was blessed to have many mentors and guides in the Faith. One of my role models was, and continues to be, my grandmother Nikonia, whose life helped shape my commitment to Christ. I would often stay at my grandmother’s house for weeks at a time during summer vacation. She would take me to church services on Sunday. On weekdays she...Fr. Alexander Goussetis2018-01-11T15:12:00Z