The Virgin Mary in Orthodoxy: Theotokos Why She Is Called the Mother of God

The Virgin Mary in Orthodoxy: Theotokos Why She Is Called the Mother of God Introduction The Virgin Mary, known in Orthodoxy above all by the title Theotokos (Greek: Theotokos — “God-bearer” or “She who gave birth to God”), is one of the most central and most venerated figures in the entire Christian tradition. Her place in Orthodox theology is singular: she is not merely a holy woman, nor simply the…

Great Lent 2026: A Complete Orthodox Guide to Prayer, Fasting, and Repentance

Great Lent 2026: A Complete Orthodox Guide to Prayer, Fasting, and Repentance Great Lent 2026 — also known as the Great Fast or Velikiy Post — begins on 23 February 2026 (Clean Monday) and concludes on Great Saturday, 11 April 2026. Orthodox Pascha (Easter) is celebrated this year on 12 April 2026. Great Lent is the most solemn and spiritually intensive period of the Orthodox liturgical year — a six-week…

The Holy Trinity in Orthodox Theology: The Most Profound Mystery of the Christian Faith

The Holy Trinity in Orthodox Theology: The Most Profound Mystery of the Christian Faith The Holy Trinity — the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — is the central and most profound mystery of the Christian faith. The question of what is the Trinity in Christianity (Holy Trinity explained) has been both a philosophical and a spiritual challenge across the centuries. Orthodox theology does not treat the Trinity as…

Icons in Orthodox Christianity: Sacred Windows to Heaven or Forbidden Images?

Icons in Orthodox Christianity: Sacred Windows to Heaven or Forbidden Images? ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ICON THEOLOGY Author. Martinus Vaicarius (Martin Vaik – Singularity) – The meaning of icons — Are icons idol worship? — Orthodox Christian icons explained Introduction: What Is an Orthodox Icon? The question “Are Orthodox icons idol worship?” is one of the most frequently searched queries about Christian devotional practice. Many people raised in the Western tradition enter…

Theosis — What It Means to Become Like God: Orthodox Christian Salvation & Deification Explained

Theosis — What It Means to Become Like God: Orthodox Christian Salvation & Deification Explained ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN SALVATION Author: Martinus Vaicarius (Martin Vaik – Singularity) – The Path of Deification | Theosis in Orthodox Theology | What Is Theosis Introduction: What Is Theosis? The question “what is theosis” is one of the most profound and least understood inquiries in the entire field of Christian theology. When someone raised in the…

The Divine Liturgy Explained: What Happens Inside an Orthodox Church Service

The Divine Liturgy Explained: What Happens Inside an Orthodox Church Service Põhjalik juhend ortodoksse jumalateenistuse mõistmiseks Sissejuhatus: Mis on jumalik liturgia? Küsimus “what is Divine Liturgy” on üks enim otsitud päringuid ortodoksi kristluse kohta ja sellel on hea põhjus — jumalik liturgia on iidseima elava jumalateenistuse vormi säilimine tänapäeva maailmas. Jumalik liturgia (kreeka keeles: Θεία Λειτουργία, Theia Leitourgia) on ortodoksi kristluse kõrgeim ja tähtsaim jumalateenistus, Püha Euharistia talituse viimine, milles…

The 9-6-3 Prayer in the Light of Orthodox Tradition

The 9-6-3 Prayer in the Light of Orthodox Tradition The 9-6-3 prayer does not originate directly from the liturgical texts of the Fathers, yet its inner structure aligns perfectly with what Orthodox spirituality has always emphasized: repentance, purification, and renewal in the light of God. When the rhythm of prayer follows the movement of the Triune God, it stops being a technique and becomes a journey of the heart. 9…

How to Fast Like the Early Christians: The Orthodox Fasting Guide for Beginners

How to Fast Like the Early Christians: The Orthodox Fasting Guide for Beginners A comprehensive guide to understanding and practicing Orthodox Christian fasting traditions from Great Lent to weekly fasts Author : Martinus Vaicarius (Martin Vaik) 1. Introduction: Rediscovering an Ancient Spiritual Discipline Fasting is one of the oldest and most universally practiced spiritual disciplines in Christianity. Yet for many modern Christians, particularly those raised in Western Protestant traditions, fasting…

Orthodox vs. Catholic vs. Protestant: Key Differences Every Seeker Should Know

Orthodox vs. Catholic vs. Protestant: Key Differences Every Seeker Should Know A comprehensive analysis of the history, theology, and practice of the three major Christian traditions 1. Introduction: Why Do These Differences Matter? Christianity is the world’s largest religion, with over 2.4 billion adherents as of 2024 — approximately 30% of the global population. Yet within this single faith, three great traditions coexist, each having shaped theology, culture, and society…

What is the Orthodox Church? The Ancient Faith That Never Changed

What is the Orthodox Church? The Ancient Faith That Never Changed Keywords: Eastern Orthodox Church, Orthodox Christianity, ancient Christian faith, Orthodox Church explained, Orthodox Church beliefs Introduction: The Church That Has Remained Unchanged Have you ever wondered what the original Christian Church looked like — the one Jesus Christ founded and the Apostles spread throughout the world? The Orthodox Church (Eastern Orthodox Church) claims to be precisely that Church: the…

Daily Christian Devotional: Building a Stronger Prayer Life in 30 Days

Daily Christian Devotional: Building a Stronger Prayer Life in 30 Days The Orthodox Tradition and the Eternal Wisdom of the Church Prayer is the very breath of the Christian life—it is the respiration of our soul, without which true religious existence cannot be sustained. The Orthodox tradition teaches that prayer is not merely an activity or religious obligation, but a sacred relationship with the living God. It is participation in…

Faith and Works: What Does the Bible Really Say About Salvation?

Faith and Works: What Does the Bible Really Say About Salvation? The relationship between faith and works has been one of the most debated topics in Christian theology for centuries. Does salvation come through faith alone, or do our actions play a crucial role? This question has divided denominations, sparked theological movements, and continues to challenge believers seeking to understand God’s plan for redemption. By examining key biblical passages and…

The Lord’s Prayer Explained: Meaning and Power Behind Jesus’ Most Famous Prayer

The Lord’s Prayer Explained: Meaning and Power Behind Jesus’ Most Famous Prayer The Lord’s Prayer stands as Christianity’s most recognized and recited prayer, spoken daily by millions of believers across the globe. Taught by Jesus Christ himself to his disciples, these profound words have echoed through churches, homes, and hearts for over two millennia. Yet despite its familiarity, many Christians recite this prayer without fully grasping the transformative power embedded…

Read the Bible Online Free: 10 Best Digital Bible Platforms in 2026

Read the Bible Online Free: 10 Best Digital Bible Platforms in 2026 In today’s digital age, accessing the Bible has never been easier or more convenient. Whether you’re commuting to work, studying scripture at home, or seeking spiritual guidance on the go, digital Bible platforms offer unprecedented accessibility to God’s Word. With features like multiple translations, audio versions, study tools, and community engagement, these platforms have revolutionized how millions of…

Understanding Christianity: Core Beliefs and Practices Every Believer Should Know

Understanding Christianity: Core Beliefs and Practices Every Believer Should Know Introduction: What Does It Mean to Be a Christian? Christianity is the world’s largest religion, with over 2.4 billion followers worldwide. Yet many people—including some who identify as Christians—struggle to explain what Christianity actually teaches and what it means to follow Jesus Christ. This guide explores the essential beliefs and practices that define authentic Christian faith. At its heart, Christianity…

Who is Jesus Christ? Discovering the Son of God and His Mission

Who is Jesus Christ? Discovering the Son of God and His Mission Introduction: The Most Important Question in History “Who do you say that I am?” This question, posed by Jesus to His disciples nearly two thousand years ago, remains the most crucial question anyone can answer. Throughout history, countless individuals have offered their opinions about Jesus Christ. Some have called Him a great moral teacher, others a revolutionary prophet,…

What is Salvation in Christianity? Your Path to Eternal Life Explained

What is Salvation in Christianity? Your Path to Eternal Life Explained Understanding the Foundation of Christian Salvation Salvation stands at the very heart of Christian faith, representing humanity’s greatest hope and God’s most profound gift. For those seeking to understand Christianity or deepen their walk with Christ, grasping the concept of salvation is essential. This comprehensive guide will walk you through what salvation means, why we need it, how to…

How to Pray Effectively – A Complete Guide to Christian Prayer for Beginners

How to Pray Effectively: A Complete Guide to Christian Prayer for Beginners Introduction: Why Prayer is the Heart of Christian Life Prayer is not merely a religious obligation or a quick list of petitions we run through each day. Prayer is the breath of life, a vital connection between God and humanity. As the Apostle Paul teaches the Thessalonians, we should “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). But how is…

How to Pray for Salvation: The Path to the Kingdom of Heaven in Orthodox Tradition

How to Pray for Salvation: The Path to the Kingdom of Heaven in Orthodox Tradition Introduction: The Soul Seeks God Our hearts are restless until they find rest in God. This truth, articulated by Saint Augustine in the fourth century, rings as true today as it ever has. Millions of people around the world seek answers to the questions: What is prayer? How can I attain salvation? What awaits me…

The Power and Meaning of Prayer in the Bible: An In-Depth Study of Christian Prayer

The Power and Meaning of Prayer in the Bible: An In-Depth Study of Christian Prayer Introduction Prayer has been at the heart of the Christian faith from the very beginning. The Bible, the sacred book of Christians, offers diverse and profound teaching on the nature, purpose, and practice of prayer. This reflection explores prayer through the lens of Scripture, unfolding its theological meaning and practical value in the life of…

Prayer to the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ – Complete Orthodox Christian Prayer Guide for Redemption, Healing, and Divine Protection

Prayer to the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ – Complete Orthodox Christian Prayer Guide for Redemption, Healing, and Divine Protection Understanding the Precious Blood of Jesus in Orthodox Christian Theology The Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ holds a central and sacred place in Orthodox Christian faith and worship. According to Orthodox theology, Christ became sin, a curse, and death for us, descending to the deepest depth of humiliation…

Nepsis and Hesychia: Keeping Your Mind Vigilant Through the Word of God

Nepsis and Hesychia: Keeping Your Mind Vigilant Through the Word of God The Ancient Orthodox Practice of Spiritual Watchfulness In our distracted world, the ancient Orthodox Christian practice of nepsis offers a transformative path to spiritual alertness. This sacred tradition of vigilance of the mind, combined with hesychia (divine stillness) and powered by Scripture, equips believers to stand firm against spiritual warfare and cultivate unceasing prayer. What is Nepsis? Understanding…

Prayer of Deliverance from Evil: Orthodox Christian Prayer for Spiritual Freedom and Protection

Prayer of Deliverance from Evil: Orthodox Christian Prayer for Spiritual Freedom and Protection Understanding Deliverance in Orthodox Christianity Deliverance is the God-given power to be freed from spiritual bondage, demonic oppression, and the influence of evil forces. The Orthodox Church has maintained a rich tradition of prayers for deliverance throughout its two-thousand-year history, rooted in Scripture, the teachings of the Church Fathers, and the authority given to believers through Christ’s…

Critique of Richard Dawkins’ Book “The God Delusion”

Critique of Richard Dawkins’ Book “The God Delusion” EELK Institute of Theology 2nd Year Christian Cultural History Master’s Program Author Allan Kroll – Tallinn March 22, 2020 Introduction This essay examines the critique of religion in Richard Dawkins’ book “The God Delusion”. The work is divided into three parts, the first of which describes the author’s claims about religion, the second part addresses God and the Bible, and the third…

Spiritual Balance and the Quest for Inner Peace: How God’s Word Guides Our Soul

Spiritual Balance and the Quest for Inner Peace: How God’s Word Guides Our Soul Introduction: The Meaning of Seeking Soul Peace Today In today’s fast-paced and stress-filled world, millions of people are searching for an answer to the question: where can we find true peace of soul? Our lives are full of external influences – social media, work stress, relationships, health concerns, and financial uncertainty. All these factors can create…

Biblical Peace: Understanding Shalom and Eirene in the Old and New Testament

Biblical Peace: Understanding Shalom and Eirene in the Old and New Testament What Does Peace Mean in the Bible? A Complete Guide to Biblical Shalom Peace is one of the most profound concepts in Scripture, appearing throughout both the Old and New Testaments. But what does biblical peace really mean? Far more than simply the absence of conflict, the Hebrew word shalom and Greek word eirene represent completeness, wholeness, and…

How to Strengthen Your Faith: 12 Proven Steps for Spiritual Growth and Deeper Belief

How to Strengthen Your Faith: 12 Proven Steps for Spiritual Growth and Deeper Belief Building stronger faith is a journey that millions of people around the world seek to accomplish. Whether you are experiencing doubt, spiritual dryness, or simply want to deepen your relationship with the divine, strengthening your faith requires intentional practices, commitment, and an open heart. This comprehensive guide provides practical, actionable steps to help you develop unshakeable…

The Names of God: Sacred and Multifaceted Revelation

The Names of God: Sacred and Multifaceted Revelation Introduction The names of God have fascinated and inspired reverence among believers and scholars throughout the ages. In the Bible, God does not appear as a single abstract concept, but has revealed Himself through many names, each opening something essential about His character, attributes, and relationship with humanity. These names are not merely identifying markers – they are powerful theological declarations that…

The Doctrine of Justification Today – Allan Kroll – Prayer of Salvation (Justification) – Martinus Vaicarius

The Doctrine of Justification Today EELC Theological Institute Author: Allan Kroll – Tallinn 2019. a. Prayer of Salvation (Justification) Author of the Prayer of Salvation: Martinus Vaicarius (Martin Vaik) – Tallinn 2026. a. Introduction The doctrine of the justification of the sinful person before God was the most significant doctrine of the Lutheran Reformation and the greatest contribution to church history, and remains a doctrine of fundamental importance for Protestant…

Galatians 1:6-9 – New Testament Texts and Their Hermeneutics

Galatians 1:6-9 – New Testament Texts and Their Hermeneutics EELC Theological Institute 1st Year (Master’s Program, Christian Cultural History) Author: Allan Kroll 2019 1. THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST Galatians 1:6 I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— 7 which is really no gospel at all. Evidently some people are…