The Orthodox Nativity Fast Can Help Prevent Holiday Blues and Christmas Depression – Lisa C. DeLuca

Much of the post-holiday blues and Christmas depression that occur in the United States may have something to do with the way Americans celebrate Christmas. The Orthodox Nativity fast may be the remedy many people need.

When people are suffering in their lives with things like divorce or other losses, financial stress, aging or illness; the sudden onset of pre-Christmas cheeriness may leave them feeling even more isolated and deprived, because the rest of world is portrayed as happy and fulfilled in stark contrast to how they feel.

Others who do embrace pre-holiday celebrations often feel let down and weighed down by food and debt shortly after Christmas day. The novelty of the new material things wears off quickly, friends and family go home, and people may be left feeling blue. This is the feeling known as post-Christmas let-down.

The Orthodox way of celebrating Christmas can yield completely different results. Continue reading

Daily Bible readings and the Holy Fathers

I recently came across this impressive book that features a collection of daily Bible readings according to the Orthodox Ecclesiastical Calendar.

So far nothing exciting, there are many like this. What is unique about this book is that it features commentaries from the Orthodox Fathers. This makes it a unique daily companion for the Orthodox seeker of divine knowledge. Continue reading