Role of the Saints
This past summer, Abey George (3rd year Seminarian at St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania) had given a wonderful talk on the Role of the Saints in the Orthodox Faith. This is one of the most difficult teachings of the Church for many to accept, and Abey did a phenomenal job explaining ... personally a "must see" for all Orthodox Christians.
The videos can be found
at this site.
An important point that was made was that the Church teaching is that we are not to worship the Saints, but rather to honor and that this is clear in the Scriptures as well. The Greek word 'Proskynesis' means veneration, honor and reverence and this is used when the Church refers to the saints. However, the Greek word 'Lateria' which means worship and adoration is used only in reference to God.
So why is it important to give 'Proskynesis'? Abey gives several examples from the Scriptures as well his own insight to make the case.
There are several references to saints during our Liturgy, so will try and explore in subsequent posts the lives of the Saints mentioned and why we need to venerate, honor and revere these leaders. My hope is that others can also comment and help better understand our Faith, as this is the way to strengthen the Church
The videos can be found
at this site.
An important point that was made was that the Church teaching is that we are not to worship the Saints, but rather to honor and that this is clear in the Scriptures as well. The Greek word 'Proskynesis' means veneration, honor and reverence and this is used when the Church refers to the saints. However, the Greek word 'Lateria' which means worship and adoration is used only in reference to God.
So why is it important to give 'Proskynesis'? Abey gives several examples from the Scriptures as well his own insight to make the case.
There are several references to saints during our Liturgy, so will try and explore in subsequent posts the lives of the Saints mentioned and why we need to venerate, honor and revere these leaders. My hope is that others can also comment and help better understand our Faith, as this is the way to strengthen the Church
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