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7 Pillars of Faith in Orthodox Christianity You Should Know
In the course of our research for the Lives, Miracles, and Wisdom of the Saints & Fasting Calendar, we often run across stories that constantly amaze us. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do.
“Orthodox Christianity is not just a faith, but it is the process for the soul.”
Drawing from the traditional and religious perspective of the Eastern Orthodox Church, there is a rich and ageless method of approaching faith. At the center of it are seven key themes of Orthodox Christianity – the truths that point believers toward sanctification.
So let’s look at these pillars in more detail, revealing their meaning and how you can benefit from them on your spiritual journey.
1. The Holy Trinity: The Foundation of Orthodoxy
Orthodox Christianity centers on the belief in the Holy Trinity: one God in three persons—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This mystery of unity in diversity shapes how Orthodox Christians experience and encounter the Divine in their daily lives.
Why It Matters:
The Holy Trinity reveals that God is inherently relational, inviting humanity into communion with Him. This foundational belief permeates every prayer, blessing, and sacrament in Orthodox life, grounding the faith in the reality of God's triune nature.
Actionable Insight:
Deepen your connection to the Holy Trinity by beginning every prayer with a conscious invocation of all three persons. For example, say the Trinitarian invocation: “In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,” making the sign of the cross as an act of faith and unity with God. This practice reinforces the centrality of the Trinity in your spiritual life.
2. The Incarnation: God Became Man
The Incarnation is the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity. The Word became flesh in Jesus Christ, uniting divinity and humanity in a way that transforms the world and opens the path to salvation for all.
Why It Matters:
The Incarnation demonstrates the immediacy of God’s presence. Through Christ, salvation becomes attainable for everyone, and the divine takes on human form to bring us into communion with Him.
Actionable Insight:
Reflect on the Incarnation during your daily prayers, especially in the Nativity Fast. Use resources like the 2025 Lives of the Saints Calendar to connect with key feast days, such as the Nativity of Christ, that celebrate this foundational mystery.
3. The Holy Spirit: The Giver of Life
The Holy Spirit plays an active role in worship, guiding the Church, and transforming the believer. He enables Christians to grow in faith, hope, and love, making the Word of God alive in their hearts.
Why It Matters:
The Holy Spirit justifies the believer, strengthens the Church, and empowers individuals to live a life of righteousness. His presence is essential for spiritual growth and guidance.
Actionable Insight:
Incorporate a prayer to the Holy Spirit into your daily routine, such as the invocation: “O Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth.” Consider reading Wisdom of the Divine Philosophers to deepen your understanding of the Spirit’s role in Orthodox theology.
4. The Church: The Body of Christ
The Church is not just a building; it is the living Body of Christ that unites believers across time and space. Through its sacraments, liturgy, and doctrines, the Church provides a framework for encountering God and growing in faith.
Why It Matters:
The Church preserves the teachings of Christ and the Apostles, offers a spiritual community, and provides a sacred space for transformation through the sacraments.
Actionable Insight:
Make attending the Divine Liturgy a priority in your weekly schedule. Use the Orthodox calendar to stay in tune with feast days and services that align your life with the rhythms of the Church year.
5. The Sacraments: Channels of Grace
The sacraments are the means through which believers encounter God’s grace. Whether through Baptism, Holy Communion, or the sacrament of Reconciliation, these milestones nurture and sustain the Christian life.
Why It Matters:
The sacraments are touchpoints of divine grace, helping believers to grow in faith and maintain their spiritual journey. They are both a gift and a responsibility.
Actionable Insight:
Prepare for Holy Communion by praying the Jesus Prayer: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Use a prayer rope to keep focused and attentive during this practice.
6. The Bible: The Living Word
The Bible is central to Orthodox doctrine and worship, but it is always read within the context of the Church’s tradition and illuminated by the Holy Spirit.
Why It Matters:
The Scriptures reveal God’s love, wisdom, and plan for humanity. They hold a special place in the life of the Church, offering spiritual nourishment and guidance.
Actionable Insight:
Dedicate time each day to reading the Scriptures. The Orthodox Study Bible can be a valuable resource for understanding the deeper meaning of passages and their place within Orthodox tradition.
7. The Last Things: Hope for Eternity
Orthodox Christianity emphasizes the hope of eternal life. Teachings on the resurrection, judgment, and the Kingdom of God inspire believers to live with purpose, hope, and an eye toward sanctity.
Why It Matters:
This pillar reminds us that life is preparation for eternity. It calls believers to reconciliation, sanctity, and unwavering hope in the promises of God.
Actionable Insight:
Reflect on the Last Things during evening prayers. Set spiritual goals for the week that align your daily life with the hope and promise of eternity.
Quick Tips to Deepen Your Faith:
Final Thoughts
The pillars of Orthodox Christianity are a source of eternal truths in an ever-changing world. By incorporating these principles into your daily life, you can grow closer to God and experience the transformative power of faith. Embrace these pillars and discover how Orthodoxy can shape a life of meaning, purpose, and hope.
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Let the journey to spiritual fulfillment begin!
