By Thom S. Rainer If you are preparing for a life in pastoral ministry, you should master vicarious learning. These insights will serve you well as you attempt to overcome the burdens of the pastoral office. Learn from the veterans. I recently interviewed more than twenty pastors who had been in … [Read more...]
Today’s Need for Bright and Transparent Cassocks
By Monk Moses the Athonite Lately there is a lot of talk about clergymen who have forgotten their mission, or they preach and are occupied with alternative projects. They rightly condemn the far right, but they also flirt with the known left. The first supports violence, racism and non-freedom. … [Read more...]
Ten Things Pastors Hate About Pastoring
By Thom S. Rainer Some of these things are universal among pastors. Some, like funerals, are nuanced by the Orthodox experience, but I (Fr. John) say, if you're not talking about the Resurrection at every funeral anyway, you don't understand the difference between the purpose of the wake and the … [Read more...]
Palamas’ Prayer for Priests
St. Gregory Palamas wrote this prayer for priests and I would ask that you make this part of your daily prayer. Pray for priests that you know as they minister daily to God’s people. O Lord Jesus Christ, enkindle the hearts of all thy priests with the fire of zealous love for Thee, that they may … [Read more...]
Christian Leaders As Servants
By Fr. Peter Preble Recently, I was asked what my philosophy of pastoral leadership in the Church is today. To sum it up in a few words: Leaders need to be Servants first. I had the honor and privilege or serving my county for 12 years in the United States Army. During that time I served under … [Read more...]
The Challenges of the Priesthood in Today’s Russia
Though this article refers to the challenges of the priesthood in Russia, it applies equally in America. The following interview with His Eminence, Archbishop Mark of Yegoryevsk, offers a frank and revealing look at the challenges and temptations faced by clergy in contemporary Russia. While of … [Read more...]
Refresher for the Orthodox Pastor
By Metropolitan Philaret (Voznesensky) Originally entitled "Refresher for a Russian Orthodox Pastor" 1. Having accepted the grace of ordination, bear in mind of what a gift and of what mercy the Lord has found you worthy – and what responsibility you now bear. A priest is an apostle to his … [Read more...]
