If there is any rest for us in this world, then it consists only in purity of the conscience and patience. This is a harbor for us who sail upon the sea of life…
Featured image: Metropolitan Theophilus and Archbishop Arseny at St. Tikhon’s Monastery on Memorial Day. source
In going to church, think that thou art going to the house of the King of heaven, where with fear and joy one ought to stand as in heaven before the King of heaven.
While standing in church, do not look around to the sides and do not look at how someone is standing and praying, lest thou be condemned with the Pharisee, since thou didst not come to judge others, but to ask for mercy for thyself from God the Judge and Knower of hearts.
Gaze with compunction toward the altar alone, where the holy sacrifice is offered.
More than anything else, beware of laughter and conversations, for whoever laughs or converses while standing in church does not render honor to the holy place and tempts others and prevents others from praying.
Featured image: source