Our First Orthodox Christmas

Last year at this time we were in catechism and on our way to chrismation. Being new to Orthodoxy we still walk a fine line in dealing with our family who are not Orthodox, so we spent last year at one of our daughter's house. It was a great time but we opted not to attend the protestant service with them. Been there, done that. This year, my wife and I, having moved with our two remaining teenage daughters to Tennessee, find ourselves fully immersed into the Orthodox ethos. In just an hour or so we will go to St Ignatius. The Christmas Liturgy will begin at 10:30 P.M.. At about the time the bells sound midnight, we will be fully immersed in the Eucharistic service, in the presence of Christ the King. The Liturgy is not just a memorial, but a partaking of the very presence of the Lord of Lords who was born, died, rose again, ascended into heaven, and will return again in glory. The Eucharist is a mystery as is the Trinity's love for all mankind. I pray that this year will be the year of peace for all who read this. I will light a candle for the theosis of all. Please pray for me, a sinner.

Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year!