Christianity

The Holy Trinity-St. Sergius Lavra

2011-06-23T10:45:00.000+03:00

“In the land of Moscow and all over the world there is no other monastery equal to this one…”

Archdeacon Paul of Aleppa

St. Sergius, the founder of the Holy Trinity Lavra, was born of wealthy Rostov boyars on May 3, 1314. On the fortieth day the local priest baptized the child, naming him Bartholomew. From his childhood he grew accustomed to solitude and sought his salvation through prayer, fasting and work. In 1337, at the age of 23, after his parents’ death, he decided to leave for the desert together with his elder brother Stephen. The brothers chose to found their hermitage in a clearing surrounded by thick forest on a low hill, later called Makovets (a term often used to indicate the top of a hill). They built for themselves a cell and a small church, which they dedicated to the Lifegiving Trinity. That was the birth of the monastery, which later served as a source of pride and inspiration to the people of Russia.

The Valaam Monastery of Transfiguration of the Savior

2011-06-23T10:41:00.000+03:00

"I recall a vivid page – in the past. Recently, as if to strengthen me, I have learnt that two novices, whom I saw in passing by on Valaam, and whom I noted in my notebook, have accomplished a feat during those years. I have learnt that they have become a "light unto the world", that they are alive. Valaam gave them an obedience. And so vivid links spread from this "now" – to the past, and this past is a light for me. In this light is that Valaam, far away. And I thought that it would be profitable to recall and relate about it: Valaam is the same as before, shining."

I.S.Shmelev (Russian writer).

Taize - ecumenical community

2007-04-23T09:08:00.000+03:00

“Right at the depth of the human condition, lies the longing for a presence, the silent desire for a communion. Let us never forget that this simple desire for God is already the beginning of faith.”

Many people like to follow the short daily Bible readings that are read at the noon prayer in Taizé. For each month, a Bible text together with a short commentary and questions for reflection – a way of seeking God in the midst of daily life.

There are regular articles on basic questions of faith and believing: The Cross, The suffering of the innocent, Love of enemies, Christian hope…

Lord Jesus Christ Prayer

2006-02-14T17:10:00.000+02:00

"Therefore, you should pray like this:

Our Father in heaven,

Your name be honored as holy.

Your kingdom come.

Your will be done

on earth as it is in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

And forgive us our debts,

as we also have forgiven our debtors.

And do not bring us into temptation,

but deliver us from the evil one.

For Yours is the kingdom and the power

and the glory forever. Amen.”
(Lord Jesus Christ)