Welcome to the Orthodox Church
Welcome to the Orthodox Church! Join Frederica Mathewes-Green, in this video series, on a journey into the Eastern Orthodox Church. Learn about Orthodox teachings and dogma, Orthodox architecture and terminology, and what it means to live an Orthodox life.
An Introduction to the Orthodox Worship Space
In this video, "An Introduction to the Orthodox Worship Space," Frederica explains the basic architecture of an Orthodox Church—the Iconostasis, Apse, and Altar.
What Do You Mean, 'Pray to the Saints?'
In this video, "What Do You Mean 'Pray to the Saints?'," Frederica explains that the English word "pray" in this sentence is a little misleading. So, what does it mean to pray to the Saints and what does the Orthodox Church practice? Watch to find out!
The Sign of the Cross, Icons, and Tradition in the Orthodox Church
In this video, "Icons, the Sign of the Cross, and Tradition in the Orthodox Church," Frederica explains why Orthodox Christians kiss icons as well as how Orthodox Christians make the sign of the cross and the meaning behind it. She also shares a little from her own journey into the Orthodox Church and accepting its Traditions.
The Role of the Virgin Mary in the Orthodox Church
In this video, "The Role of the Virgin Mary in the Orthodox Church," Frederica explains how Orthodox Christians view the Virgin Mary and her role in the Orthodox Church.
Why Do Orthodox Christians Call Mary the Theotokos?
In this video, "Why Do Orthodox Christians Call Mary the Theotokos?," Frederica explains the importance behind the title Theotokos, or Mother of God, for the Virgin Mary.
Division in Christendom: The Great Schism & Reformation
In this video, "Division in Christendom: The Great Schism & Reformation," Frederica talks a little about the lines dividing Christendom, their history, and their effect today.
What Does Unity Mean in the Orthodox Church?
In this video, "What Does Unity Mean in the Orthodox Church? ," Frederica explain that Orthodox Christians believe the same thing—they hold the same faith. And it is a faith that, when practiced, yields results.
The Empowerment of the Laity in the Orthodox Church
In this video, "The Empowerment of the Laity in the Orthodox Church," Frederica talks about the role of the laity in the Orthodox Church. Believe it or not, it is a role that is quite important!
Why Are There So Many Different Orthodox Churches?
In this video, "Why Are There So Many Different Orthodox Churches? ," Frederica explains that Russian Orthodox, Greek Orthodox, Serbian Orthodox, are all in communion with one another (among others). In this way, they are not different Orthodox Churches in the same way that there are different Protestant denominations—they are different jurisdictions of there same Church.
Why Aren't There Pews in Many Orthodox Churches?
In this video, "Why Aren't There Pews in Many Orthodox Churches? ," Frederica notes that a number of Orthodox Churches do not have pews. Where are you supposed to stand and worship? Don't worry! Frederica explains.
One of the Things That Surprised Me About the Orthodox Church
In this video, "One of the Things That Surprised Me About the Orthodox Church," Frederica relates that she originally thought the Orthodox Church would be stuffy and stiff because of its elaborate nature. But she was surprised to find that, that was not the case at all!
The Choir and the Chanters in the Orthodox Church
In this video, "The Choir and the Chanters in the Orthodox Church," Frederica talks about the role of the choir and chanters in the Orthodox Church. She notes that, in Orthodoxy, the hymns are prayers and the prayers are hymns.
The Liturgical Calendar and the Twelve Great Feasts
In this video, "The Liturgical Calendar and the Twelve Great Feasts," Frederica explains what the Liturgical Calendar is.
Theosis Part I: Glowing with the Light of Christ
In this video, "Theosis Part I: Glowing with the Light of Christ," Frederica sets the groundwork for a multi-part exploration of Theosis according to the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Theosis Part II: The Goal of Orthodox Christianity
In this video, "Theosis Part II: The Goal of Orthodox Christianity," Frederica explores the goal of Orthodox Christianity: theosis.
Theosis III: The Energy of God in You
In this video, "Theosis Part III: The Energy of God in You," Frederica notes an important Greek word that is often over-looked in English translations.
The Condition of Sin According to the Orthodox Church
In this video, "The Condition of Sin According to the Orthodox Church," Frederica takes just 60 seconds to explain how Orthodox Christians understand our sinful condition.
Frederica's Story: Experiencing More of God
In this video, "Frederica's Story: Experiencing More of God," Frederica tells us a little about her own conversion story.
Theosis IV: God as Light and Fire
In this video, "Theosis IV: God as Light and Fire," Frederica notes that, before a hundred or so years ago, light and fire were always equated. She goes on to explain that this should effect the way we thinking about God—as light and fire.
God as Light and Fire: The Hellfire of God's Love
In this video, "God as Light and Fire: The Hellfire of God's Love," Frederica asks why a loving God would "send" people to hell. The short answer: he doesn't, we do. We either experience God's love as light and life or as hellfire.
Orthodoxy and the Atonement
In this video, "Orthodoxy and the Atonement," Frederica explains how Orthodox understand the Atonement and how it differs from the Western understanding.
A Little More About the Orthodox Worship Space
In this video, "A Little More About the Orthodox Worship Space," Frederica talks a little more about the iconostasis, the nave, and the altar.
The Vespers Service in the Orthodox Church
In this video, "The Vespers Service in the Orthodox Church," Frederica explains the progression of Vespers in the Orthodox Church.
The Sacrament of Confession in the Orthodox Church
In this video, "The Sacrament of Confession in the Orthodox Church," Frederica talks a little about the Sacrament of Confession.
Why Do Orthodox Christians Repeat 'Lord Have Mercy'?
In this video, "Why Do Orthodox Christians Repeat 'Lord Have Mercy'?" Frederica talks a little about why Orthodox Christians seem to always repeat three words.
An Overview of the Orthodox Divine Liturgy
In this video, "An Overview of the Orthodox Divine Liturgy," Frederica explains why we do things the way we do in the Orthodox Church and what you might experience if you endeavor to visit an Orthodox Church for the first time.
Why Orthodox Use Incense in Worship
In this video, "Why Orthodox Use Incense in Worship," Frederica talks a little about the meaning and importance of incense in Orthodox worship.
Why Orthodox Christians Practice Closed Communion
In this video, "Why Orthodox Christians Practice Closed Communion," Frederica talks a little about this touchy subject.
Frederica Mathewes-Green on the Jesus Prayer
In this video Frederica talks about the Jesus Prayer: why it's important, how to practice it, and what is meant to accomplish.
Eastern Orthodox Fasting and Coffee Hour
In this video Frederica talks a little bit about Orthodox fasting—and what we mean by "coffee hour after liturgy."
Exploring the Orthodox Household
In this video, Frederica talks a little bit about how Orthodox Christians practice their faith at home.
Using Candles and Icons in Prayer: Is It Idolatry?
In this video, Frederica talks about a lighting a candle in front of an icon. Is it idolatry?
Relics in the Orthodox Church: Why Do We Have Them?
In this video, Frederica talks about relics: what they are and why many Orthodox Churches have them.
