Description
Book SynopsisThe Apostle Paul commands his disciple Timothy to “be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” This exhortation encapsulates the Orthodox Church’s expectations from her clergy and forms the basis of her Pastoral Theology. The aim of the present work is to guide the contemporary Orthodox priest in his application of the Apostle’s words to his everyday life as a conduit of Divine Grace and shepherd of Christ’s flock. At the same time, its focus on the proper formation of the soul will benefit every Christian, whether ordained or not. Compiled from recent and historical sources reflecting the rich heritage of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Table of ContentsForeword (Publishers) Preface [Address to Priests] Introduction Part I: The Instruction of the Parishioners Chapter 1: Instruction of the People by the Word Chapter 2: What the Priest ought to Teach and Whence Chapter 3: How the Priest Ought to Teach Chapter 4: On Instruction by Deed Part 2: Ministering the Sacraments Chapter 5: On the Sacraments in General Chapter 6: Some Important Aspects of Each Sacrament in Particular, Beginning with the Sacrament of Holy Baptism Chapter 7: The Sacrament of Chrismation Chapter 8: The Sacrament of Confession Chapter 9: The Sacrament of Holy Communion, and Some General Remarks Regarding the Serving of the Divine Liturgy Chapter 10: The Sacrament of Ordination Chapter 11: The Sacrament of Unction Part 3: On Prayer Chapter 12: On Prayer in General Chapter 13: How to Pray in Spirit and Truth Chapter 14: Prayer as the Special Duty of Priests Chapter 15: Some Thoughts on Church Style and its Effect on the Prayer of the Congregation Concluding Thoughts Index
