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Andcross Orthodox online store offers a wide range of Orthodox products - gift sets, icons, icon cases, books, monastery candles, jewelry and much more. Some of the products of our own production, as well as from other suppliers - monasteries, temples, masters of the entire Orthodox world.
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A Theotokos icon for prayer corner is not chosen merely to complete a beautiful arrangement in the home. It is received as a sacred image of the Mother of God, she who gave flesh to the Word and continually intercedes for the faithful before her Son. When a family stands before her icon with a candle, the sign of the cross, and humble prayer, the prayer corner becomes a small domestic church: a place set apart for repentance, thanksgiving, and peace.
In Orthodox life, the Theotokos holds a singular place of honor. The Church calls her more honorable than the cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the seraphim, not as a goddess, but as the Mother of the incarnate Lord Jesus Christ. Her icons direct the heart to Christ. In nearly every canonical image, her hand, gaze, or posture reveals this truth: she leads us to her Son.
For this reason, many Orthodox prayer corners include an icon of Christ the Savior alongside an icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. Traditionally, Christ is placed to the right of the person praying and the Theotokos to the left. This recalls the arrangement familiar from the iconostasis, where the Savior and His Mother stand near the royal doors. The home does not become a church building, yet the arrangement gently teaches the order and prayerful memory of the Church.
A prayer corner may also include a cross, a prayer book, beeswax candles, a small lampada, and icons of the family’s patron saints. These objects serve prayer; they should not crowd it. A modest corner with two well-loved icons can be more fitting than a large collection kept only for display.
The first consideration is not size, finish, or frame. It is the iconographic image itself. Choose an image of the Mother of God that is canonical, reverently made, and spiritually meaningful to your household. A family may be especially drawn to an icon connected with a feast day, a place of pilgrimage, a family history, or a need carried in prayer.
The Hodegetria, meaning “She Who Shows the Way,” is among the most beloved forms. The Theotokos holds the Christ Child and gestures toward Him, teaching without words that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. This type is especially fitting for a family prayer corner because it visibly centers the home on Christ.
The Eleousa, often called the Icon of Tenderness, shows the affectionate closeness of Mother and Child. The Vladimir Mother of God is the best-known example. Such an icon brings to mind the mercy, compassion, and maternal intercession of the Theotokos. It may be particularly meaningful in homes where prayers are offered for children, reconciliation, illness, or comfort in sorrow.
Icons of the Theotokos of the Sign show the Virgin with her hands raised in prayer and Christ Emmanuel depicted within a medallion upon her breast. This image proclaims the mystery of the Incarnation. The Oranta image, with the Mother of God standing in prayer, is likewise a powerful reminder that she intercedes for the whole world.
There is no single icon type that every Orthodox household must select. A Theotokos icon for prayer corner should draw the family toward sincere prayer, remain faithful to Orthodox tradition, and be received with reverence. If an icon bears the name of a revered or miraculous image, it is good to learn its history and feast day, rather than treating the title as a decorative label.
A small icon can be entirely suitable for an apartment, dormitory, or a quiet shelf in a family room. A larger icon may be appropriate when the prayer corner is established in a dedicated place and can be seen clearly by all who pray there. Leave enough room to cense the icons, light a candle safely, and make the sign of the cross without rushing.
Material matters because it affects both durability and the character of the sacred image. A traditional color icon on wood offers warmth and a close resemblance to the icons familiar in Orthodox churches and homes. An icon with a fine silver 999 plated riza, or cover, gives a more solemn and gift-ready presentation while allowing the holy faces and hands to remain visible. Silver-plated icons are often chosen for weddings, baptisms, house blessings, and milestone anniversaries.
Fine workmanship is a worthy offering when it serves devotion rather than vanity. Look for clear canonical features, careful details, secure backing, and a presentation suited to the place where the icon will be kept. A handmade icon, a monastery-made image, or an icon prepared by Orthodox artisans can carry particular meaning for those seeking a visible connection to the living tradition of the Church.
Orthodox Christians have often oriented prayer toward the east, the direction of the rising sun and a sign of Christ’s coming in glory. If an eastern wall is available, it is a beautiful custom to follow. Yet many homes have practical limitations. Windows, doors, apartment layouts, and family needs may make another location more sensible. Choose a clean, peaceful, and visible place where the household can gather without distraction.
Avoid placing icons where they may be treated casually, exposed to moisture or grease, or surrounded by objects that compete for attention. A kitchen can be a place of heartfelt prayer, but it may not be the best place for a precious icon near heat and steam. Bedrooms are often appropriate, especially for personal morning and evening prayers. A central family room can also be fitting when the goal is to establish a shared rule of prayer.
The icons may be hung on the wall or placed on a stable shelf or icon stand. Keep them upright and protected from direct sunlight, which can affect color over time. If candles are used, never leave them unattended and keep flame well away from wood, fabric, paper, and the icon itself. A small candleholder and a careful routine preserve both reverence and safety.
Some families add a small cloth beneath the icons, a hanging lampada, or a vase of flowers on feast days. These are beautiful customs when kept simple. The most precious adornment of the prayer corner is not silver, flowers, or polished wood, but the prayer offered there with attention.
When bringing a new icon into the home, many faithful ask their priest to bless it, particularly if it has not already been blessed according to local practice. Customs vary among parishes and jurisdictions, so it is wise to follow the guidance of one’s priest. An icon does not function as a charm or a religious ornament. Its honor belongs to the person depicted, and its purpose is communion in prayer.
Before the icon of the Theotokos, one may begin simply: make the sign of the cross, bow, and say, “Most Holy Theotokos, save us,” or pray the familiar hymn, “It is truly meet to bless thee, O Theotokos.” Parents may teach children to greet the icons quietly in the morning and before sleep. Such small acts form a faithful rhythm over many years.
Theotokos icons are also natural places for intercession. Bring before the Mother of God the names of children, spouses, parents, the sick, those traveling, and those who have fallen away from peace. Ask not for a life without hardship, but for mercy, courage, healing, and steadfastness in Christ. Her maternal compassion does not replace prayer to the Lord; it strengthens the faithful heart to turn to Him.
An icon of the Mother of God is a deeply fitting gift for a baptism, wedding, housewarming, birthday, or name day. For a young couple, it may become the first icon in the home they are building together. For godchildren, it can remain a lifelong companion and a quiet witness to the prayers offered for them by parents and godparents.
When selecting an icon as a gift, consider the recipient’s space and devotional life. A compact color icon may suit a student or someone beginning a prayer corner. A larger silver-plated icon in a gift case may be appropriate for a wedding or an important family anniversary. At Andija, carefully made Orthodox icons and gift presentations allow families to choose an offering that is both worthy of the occasion and ready to be treasured.
Place the icon with gratitude, light a candle when you can, and return to it in both joy and trial. Before the face of the Mother who points always to Christ, let the prayer corner become a place where the heart learns again to say, “Thy will be done.”
A beautiful image of Christ or a saint may stir the heart, yet beauty alone does not make it an icon in the Orthodox sense. To understand how to identify a canonical icon, look first for faithfulness to the Church’s received tradition: the holy person depicted, the theological meaning of the image, its inscriptions, and its reverent purpose in prayer.
An icon is not merely religious artwork or a spiritual decoration for the home. It is a sacred image that bears witness to the Incarnation of Christ and directs the faithful toward the Person represented. Orthodox Christians do not worship wood, paint, silver, or a printed image. We offer veneration to Christ, His Most Pure Mother, the angels, and the saints, asking their prayers before God.
A canonical icon conforms to the tradition of Orthodox iconography as it has been guarded and handed down by the Church. This does not mean every icon must look identical. Russian, Greek, Serbian, Romanian, Georgian, and other Orthodox traditions have recognizable artistic schools. Colors, proportions, ornament, and painting techniques may differ, while the confession of faith remains the same.
Canon is not a brand name, a certificate, or a decorative style. It is the faithful expression of Orthodox teaching through an image. A canonical icon presents Christ, the Theotokos, an angel, a biblical event, or a saint in a manner consistent with Scripture, Holy Tradition, and established iconographic forms.
For this reason, an icon may be simple or richly adorned, hand-painted or carefully printed, old or newly made. A fine silver 999 covering, a carved wooden kiot, or a gift case can honor an icon, but these features do not determine whether the image itself is canonical. The sacred image comes first; its setting serves the image.
The clearest first sign is often the inscription. Orthodox icons traditionally name the One or the one depicted. Christ is commonly marked with the Greek letters IC XC, an abbreviation for Jesus Christ. Within His halo appear the letters O WN, meaning “He Who Is,” recalling God’s words to Moses: “I AM WHO I AM.” This is a profound confession that the Lord Jesus Christ is truly God.
Icons of the Mother of God often bear the Greek abbreviation MP ΘY, meaning Mother of God. In Slavonic or Russian tradition, the inscription may be written in Church Slavonic or Cyrillic. A saint should be identified by name, often with a title such as Holy Martyr, Venerable, Hierarch, Apostle, Wonderworker, or Great Martyr.
The wording matters. A properly titled icon helps the faithful recognize the saint and the feast or event shown. An image labeled only with a vague phrase such as “angel of peace,” “divine feminine,” or “spiritual healer” should be approached carefully. Such language may be devotional in a broad sense, but it is not the customary language of Orthodox iconography.
Spelling and language can vary by tradition, and older icons may use unfamiliar abbreviations. A missing or difficult-to-read inscription does not automatically prove that an icon is improper, especially when it has been worn by time or covered by a riza. Still, a clear, traditional inscription is one of the most reassuring signs for a buyer.
Many canonical icons follow beloved and recognizable forms. Christ Pantocrator presents the Lord as Almighty, usually blessing with His right hand and holding the Gospel in His left. The Theotokos of Kazan, Vladimir, Iveron, Tikhvin, and the Sign each has a distinct, received composition. Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker appears in episcopal vestments, frequently holding the Gospel and blessing. Saint George is often shown as a victorious martyr on horseback, overcoming the dragon as an image of triumph over evil.
A canonical icon does not have to reproduce one famous prototype line for line. Yet its central features should remain recognizable. When an image changes those features so greatly that the holy figure becomes a fantasy character, a sentimental portrait, or an indistinct religious symbol, it has moved away from traditional iconography.
Orthodox icons speak through visual theology. Christ’s halo with the cross is reserved for Christ alone. The Theotokos is shown with three stars, traditionally placed on her forehead and shoulders, proclaiming her virginity before, during, and after the birth of Christ. Saints have halos because they shine with the grace of God, not because they possess power apart from Him.
The faces of saints are usually peaceful, sober, and transfigured rather than theatrical. Their eyes are often large and attentive, calling the person praying to inner watchfulness. Perspective may appear unfamiliar to modern viewers because the icon is not trying to imitate a photograph. Its purpose is to reveal the Kingdom of God, where the visible world is illumined by divine grace.
Be cautious when an image treats a saint as a romantic hero, a fashionable personality, or a source of luck. Orthodox Christians ask saints for intercession. We do not use icons as charms, talismans, or promises of automatic earthly success. Even an icon associated with a particular need – Saint Spyridon for assistance in hardship, Saint Panteleimon in illness, or the Guardian Angel for protection – remains an invitation to prayer, repentance, and trust in God’s will.
Buyers sometimes expect a single feature to settle every question: “Is it blessed?” A blessing is a sacred and meaningful matter, but it is helpful to distinguish it from canonical content. An icon can faithfully depict a recognized Orthodox image even before it has been blessed for use in a home prayer corner. Conversely, a decorative religious image does not become canonical simply because a seller describes it in reverent terms.
Many icons are made in monasteries, workshops connected with temples, or by experienced Orthodox iconographers. Such provenance can offer confidence, particularly when the maker follows established models and uses traditional inscriptions. A priest may bless an icon, and many faithful rightly desire this before placing it among their family shrines.
Practices differ by parish and jurisdiction. Some priests bless newly purchased icons; others may explain that a properly made icon intended for Orthodox prayer is already treated with reverence. When in doubt, bring the icon to your parish priest. His pastoral counsel is more valuable than an online label or a sales description.
Authenticity also involves honest workmanship. Whether an icon is hand-painted on a wooden board, printed with a protective finish, or set beneath a silver-plated oklad, the materials and construction should be described plainly. A handmade icon may show the character of the artist’s hand. A quality printed icon can also be suitable for prayer and especially useful for travel, gifts, or a family icon corner.
If the icon has a metal covering, make sure the faces and hands are revealed respectfully and that the covering supports, rather than obscures, the holy image. Silver plating, gilding, enamel details, and a fitted case may make an icon a worthy baptismal, wedding, name-day, or feast-day gift. They should never be used to distract from a poor or confused depiction.
A few practical questions can help when choosing: Is the saint or feast clearly named? Does the composition correspond to a recognized Orthodox type? Is the seller open about the icon’s origin, materials, and method of making? Is it presented as an object for prayer rather than as a novelty? Clear answers are a good sign of care.
Not every concern can be settled by a checklist. Ancient icons may be damaged, regional forms may be unfamiliar, and family heirlooms may carry inscriptions in languages you do not read. Some icons also portray difficult subjects, such as the Holy Trinity, the Last Judgment, or visionary scenes from a saint’s life, which require particular theological care.
If an icon is unusual, do not rush to reject it. Compare it with trusted Orthodox examples, ask a knowledgeable iconographer, or seek the counsel of your priest. The goal is not to become suspicious of every variation. It is to receive sacred images with discernment, humility, and love for the tradition entrusted to the Church.
A canonical icon belongs where a lampada may be lit, a candle may be offered, and a quiet prayer may be spoken. Choose an image that leads your household beyond admiration of craftsmanship and into faithful remembrance of Christ, His Most Holy Mother, and all the saints.
A church bell heard before the Divine Liturgy does more than announce a service time. Its voice passes over streets, homes, and fields as a call to prayer, reminding the faithful that the Holy Mysteries are about to begin. Orthodox church bells belong to the worshipping life of the Church: they proclaim feast days, accompany processions, mourn the departed, and give audible witness to the presence of the temple in the world.
For Orthodox Christians living far from the church of their childhood or family homeland, the sound can also carry a deep memory. A particular peal may recall Pascha at midnight, the blessing of water at Theophany, a wedding, or the solemn tolling heard at a funeral. Yet bells are not merely reminders of culture. In sacred tradition, their sound serves prayer, order, and proclamation.
The bell summons the faithful to gather. Before a service begins, its ringing tells those nearby that prayer is commencing and that the doors of the church are open. During a procession, bells bear joyful witness that Christ is glorified among His people. At Pascha, their full and radiant ringing expresses the triumph of the Resurrection: “Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death.”
This purpose explains why a temple bell is treated with reverence. It is not an ornament added for atmosphere, nor simply an old-fashioned signal. Once a bell has been set apart and blessed for church use, it becomes connected to the prayer of the community it serves. Its voice calls people away from distraction and toward repentance, worship, and hope.
The precise customs of ringing differ among Greek, Russian, Serbian, Antiochian, Romanian, and other Orthodox traditions. Local practice, the church calendar, and the instruction of the priest or bishop all matter. The shared meaning remains clear: bells help the Church sanctify time.
The Orthodox calendar is not a collection of dates alone. It is a sacred rhythm of fasts and feasts, vigils and Liturgies, sorrow and resurrectional joy. Bells make that rhythm audible.
A restrained toll may prepare the faithful for a solemn service. A more joyful ringing may greet a great feast or the arrival of a bishop. On the brightest days, especially Pascha, a rich peal can continue before and after services as the whole church rejoices in the victory of Christ. At times of mourning, slower ringing expresses prayerful grief while affirming the hope of eternal life.
In the Russian Orthodox tradition, bell ringing developed into a highly expressive art. A skilled ringer does not simply strike bells at random. He or she follows patterns shaped by the liturgical occasion, with attention to rhythm, sequence, and the distinctive voice of each bell.
One familiar form is the blagovest, often translated as the “good news” or “good tidings” ringing. It consists of measured strikes on a large bell and traditionally announces the beginning of worship. Its steady sound is dignified and expectant, inviting the faithful to prepare themselves for prayer.
Another form, trezvon, is a joyful peal using several bells, commonly repeated in sets of three. It may be heard on Sundays, great feasts, and other celebratory occasions. The sound is bright, layered, and triumphant. In contrast, more solemn patterns may be used during funerals, Holy Week, or services of supplication.
These names and forms are especially associated with Slavic practice, and their use is not identical in every parish. A church should follow its own received custom rather than imitate a pattern without understanding its place in worship. The goal is never performance for its own sake. The goal is to serve the prayer of the Church.
The voice of a bell begins long before it is hung in a bell tower. Traditionally, church bells are cast from bronze, an alloy valued for its strength, resonance, and warm, enduring tone. Their shape, thickness, diameter, crown, and clapper all influence the sound. Even a small change in the profile of the bell can alter its character.
Fine bells require patient workmanship. The casting must be sound, the metal properly finished, and the clapper fitted so that it speaks clearly without damaging the bell. Larger bells offer depth and gravity, while smaller bells add brightness and movement to a peal. Together, a set can create a voice that is fuller than any single bell.
Many Orthodox bells also bear raised inscriptions, crosses, icons, or images of saints. These details are not merely decorative. An inscription may commemorate the church, a donor, a feast, or a saint to whom the temple is dedicated. A cast cross or sacred image visibly declares that the bell belongs to the life of faith.
There is a practical trade-off in every bell purchase. A heavier, more resonant bell may be fitting for a chapel or outdoor structure, but it needs secure mounting and sufficient space. A smaller bell is easier to place and may be suitable for a prayer corner, a school setting, or a meaningful Orthodox gift, but it will not reproduce the carrying voice of a tower bell. Size should serve the intended purpose, not simply appearance.
A bell made for a church tower has a distinct liturgical role. It should be selected and installed with the blessing and guidance of the parish priest, especially when it is intended for a temple, chapel, monastery, or procession. The blessing of a church bell is a solemn act, asking that its sound call the faithful to worship and drive away spiritual darkness.
Small Orthodox bells may also have a place in the home as devotional gifts or as reminders of the Church’s worship. They are especially meaningful for clergy families, choir directors, godparents, teachers, and Orthodox households that treasure traditional sacred art. A carefully made bell with a cross, icon, or feast-day image can be displayed near an icon corner or presented in a gift case for a baptism, name day, wedding, or house blessing.
Still, a home bell is not a substitute for the temple bell or for participation in the services of the Church. Its value lies in the reverent memory it carries. It can turn the heart toward prayer when seen or heard, but it should never be treated as a novelty or used carelessly.
When selecting a small bell for an Orthodox Christian, begin with the sacred image or occasion it honors. A bell bearing Christ, the Theotokos, Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, a Guardian Angel, or a traditional cross can connect the gift to the recipient’s patron saint, family devotion, or parish tradition.
Next, consider material and finish. Handmade metalwork, careful engraving, and a well-balanced clapper give a bell lasting dignity. Silver-toned finishes may complement a prayer corner with silver-plated icons or a cross, while warm bronze retains a more traditional bell-like character. If the bell will be given for a baptism or wedding, a presentation case and a short written dedication can make it a treasured family keepsake.
Finally, choose with spiritual purpose. A feast-day gift should not be reduced to its price, size, or decorative effect. The best Orthodox devotional objects are those that help the recipient remember Christ, honor the saints, and remain close to the prayer of the Church. At Andija, traditional Orthodox bells and sacred gifts are chosen with this same attention to craftsmanship, devotional meaning, and gift-worthy presentation.
A bell should be kept clean, dry, and protected from harsh chemicals that may harm its finish. If it has a movable clapper, handle it gently and avoid striking it against hard surfaces. For larger bells, proper hardware and professional installation are essential. A falling bell is dangerous, and poor suspension can damage both the bell and the structure that holds it.
More importantly, let reverence guide its use. Sacred images and crosses should be handled respectfully. If a bell has been blessed for church use, it belongs within the order of the parish and should be used according to the direction of the clergy. If it is a household devotional bell, place it where it supports a prayerful home rather than where it becomes an object of casual amusement.
The sound of a bell fades quickly in the air, but its call can remain in the heart. Whether heard from a distant bell tower or received as a small handmade gift, it offers a simple invitation: pause, make the sign of the cross, and turn again toward God.
A small prayer rope around the wrist can be a quiet reminder in the middle of a crowded day: return to Christ. Orthodox prayer bracelets are not fashion accessories in the ordinary sense, though many are carefully handmade and beautiful. They are compact prayer ropes, made to help the faithful keep the Jesus Prayer close at hand: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”
Known in different Orthodox traditions as chotki, komboskini, broyanitsa, or prayer ropes, these devotional companions carry a long monastic heritage into daily life. A person may use one while standing before icons, traveling to work, waiting at a doctor’s office, or settling the mind before sleep. Its purpose is simple and profound: not to count spiritual achievement, but to gather the heart before God.
An Orthodox prayer bracelet is usually a short loop of knotted cord, sized for the wrist and commonly made with 33, 50, or another modest number of knots. Each knot gives the fingers a place to rest while the lips or heart repeat a prayer. The most familiar prayer is the Jesus Prayer, but a person may also pray, “Most Holy Theotokos, save us,” ask the intercessions of a beloved saint, or offer a brief prayer for someone in need.
The bracelet form is especially useful because it is discreet. A larger prayer rope may be kept in a pocket or prayer corner, while a wrist prayer rope remains available throughout the day. It can gently interrupt distraction without calling attention to the person wearing it.
Yet the rope itself does not work like a charm. Orthodox Christians do not wear it for luck, protection apart from God, or as a sign of spiritual status. The knots have value because they serve prayer. When used with humility, repentance, and faith, a prayer bracelet becomes a practical aid to the life of the Church.
Traditional Orthodox prayer ropes are often made from black wool, recalling mourning for sin and the call to repentance. In monastic practice, wool also speaks of Christ the Good Shepherd and of the flock He gathers. But prayer bracelets may also be made with durable cord, wood beads, stone beads, or silver accents. Materials can vary by local custom, maker, and intended use.
The traditional knotted prayer rope has a special place because every knot is formed in a pattern associated with the Cross. Many ropes include a small cross and, sometimes, a tassel. The tassel is traditionally understood as a reminder to wipe away tears of repentance, though not every bracelet includes one. A bead may mark a division in a longer rope, helping the person know where they are without making prayer mechanical.
A handmade bracelet made in a monastery or by an Orthodox artisan can be a particularly meaningful choice. Its value is not merely in workmanship, although careful workmanship matters. It also reflects a living inheritance of prayer, labor, and reverence. For a gift, a well-made prayer rope presented in a proper gift case can mark a name day, baptism, feast day, graduation, or a season when someone needs spiritual encouragement.
There is no single number required for every Orthodox Christian. Thirty-three knots are often chosen in remembrance of the earthly years of our Lord Jesus Christ. Fifty knots provide a slightly longer rule without the size of a full prayer rope. Larger counts such as 100 are common for pocket or hand-held ropes and are often used with a prayer rule given by a priest or spiritual father.
The right number depends on how the bracelet will be used. A simple 33-knot wrist rope is often suitable for daily remembrance. A person following a more regular rule may prefer a longer rope. The count is an aid, not a measure of holiness. Better a few prayers offered with attention than many said while the mind is entirely elsewhere.
Begin without strain. Make the sign of the Cross, hold the first knot between the fingers, and say the Jesus Prayer slowly. Move to the next knot and repeat. If praying aloud is not possible, say the words inwardly. The goal is not a special feeling. It is to stand honestly before the Lord and ask for His mercy.
A simple beginning may be one circuit of the bracelet in the morning or evening. Some people pray a few knots before opening a difficult message, beginning a journey, or entering a conversation that requires patience. Others use the rope while reading Scripture or sitting quietly before an icon of Christ, the Theotokos, or their patron saint.
If distractions arise, do not become discouraged. Notice them and return to the prayer. This return is itself part of the work. The Jesus Prayer is not a technique for emptying the mind. It is the repeated calling upon the Name of Jesus Christ with faith and repentance.
Those who want to take on a larger prayer rule should seek the guidance of their parish priest or spiritual father. The Church gives this counsel for good reason. Prayer needs discernment. What strengthens one person may burden another, especially during illness, grief, family demands, or a difficult spiritual season.
Because a prayer bracelet rests against the skin and is handled often, construction matters. Look for secure knots, durable cord, a comfortable fit, and a cross that is firmly attached. Natural wool has traditional significance but may not suit every wearer. Strong cord can be practical for work, travel, and daily movement. Beaded styles may appeal to those who prefer a more jewelry-like appearance, but the beads should still be easy to move deliberately during prayer.
For a child or teenager, a smaller and simpler bracelet is usually best. It can introduce the habit of turning to Christ without making prayer feel like a task to be completed. For an adult receiving a prayer bracelet as a gift, consider their tradition and daily circumstances. A black knotted rope may be especially fitting for someone who values a monastic appearance, while a silver-accented or carefully beaded prayer rope can suit a feast-day gift or a more formal occasion.
If an item has been blessed, receive that blessing with reverence. A blessing does not change the bracelet into an object of superstition. It sets it apart for faithful use and reminds the wearer that all prayer belongs within the sacramental life of the Church. Treat the rope respectfully, rather than tossing it among ordinary belongings or wearing it carelessly as decoration.
Orthodox prayer bracelets may be visible, especially when worn on the wrist, but they should not become a display of piety. The Lord teaches us to pray with sincerity, not for the praise of others. If a bracelet invites a respectful question, it can be an occasion to speak simply about the Jesus Prayer. If it attracts attention that disturbs prayer or feels immodest, it may be better worn beneath a sleeve or kept in a pocket.
This balance matters when choosing designs with precious metals, carved beads, or ornate crosses. Fine materials and artisan beauty can honor sacred tradition and make a worthy gift. Orthodox art has never rejected beauty when it points beyond itself toward God. Still, the finest bracelet is the one that is actually used in prayer, with a contrite heart.
Keep a prayer bracelet clean and dry when possible, particularly if it is made of wool or natural fibers. Avoid pulling the knots roughly or exposing delicate cords to water, chemicals, and sharp edges. If a knot loosens or the rope breaks after long use, do not treat it as an omen. It has simply served faithfully and may need repair or replacement.
Some faithful keep an older, worn prayer rope near their icons rather than discarding it casually. The important thing is reverence, not anxiety over a particular custom. When uncertain, ask a priest how devotional items are handled in your parish tradition.
A prayer bracelet cannot remove sorrow, solve every decision, or replace participation in the Divine Liturgy, confession, Scripture, and works of mercy. What it can do is place a humble prayer in the hand. Each knot offers the same invitation: call upon the Name of Christ, ask for mercy, and let that prayer quietly accompany the next faithful step.
A Church Slavonic prayer book carries more than words on a page. It carries the sound of the Divine Liturgy, the Psalms read before the icon corner, and the hymns that have formed Orthodox hearts across Slavic lands for centuries. For many faithful families, Church Slavonic books are a living thread between home prayer and the worship of the Church.
The language may feel solemn and ancient, yet it is not meant to be treated as a museum relic. It is the language through which generations have confessed Christ, honored the Most Holy Theotokos, and called upon the saints for help. A carefully chosen volume can become a treasured companion for prayer, study, and the spiritual education of children and grandchildren.
Church Slavonic developed from the missionary work of Saints Cyril and Methodius, Equal-to-the-Apostles, who gave the Slavic peoples a written language for Scripture and worship. Its purpose was never merely literary. It was created so that the Gospel and the services of the Church could be heard, prayed, and remembered by the people.
In the Russian Orthodox and broader Slavic Orthodox tradition, Church Slavonic remains closely joined to the rhythm of worship. The troparia of feasts, the Psalms, the Gospel readings, and prayers from the service books are often heard in this language. Its vocabulary, cadence, and reverent forms of address help set sacred prayer apart from ordinary speech.
This does not mean that a person must understand every word immediately before opening a Church Slavonic book. Prayer grows through faithful attention. Over time, familiar phrases begin to speak clearly: Gospodi pomiluy – Lord, have mercy; Slava Otsu i Synu i Svyatomu Dukhu – Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. A parallel translation or a trusted teacher can make this learning more fruitful.
At the same time, language should serve prayer rather than become a burden. Those new to Orthodox life may pray primarily in English while gradually becoming acquainted with Church Slavonic. A person who already hears it weekly in parish worship may find that a Slavonic prayer book deepens participation and gives a welcome sense of continuity between church and home.
The right book depends on how it will be used. A home prayer corner does not require a large library, but a few well-made volumes can support a complete and steady rule of prayer. Quality matters here. Clear type, durable binding, proper liturgical text, and respectful presentation all help a sacred book remain usable for many years.
A Church Slavonic prayer book, often called a Molitvoslov, is usually the most practical starting point. It may contain morning and evening prayers, prayers before and after Holy Communion, prayers for the departed, canons, akathists, and prayers for particular needs. For someone accustomed to a Russian Orthodox prayer rule, it is an especially natural book to keep near an icon of Christ, the Theotokos, or one’s Guardian Angel.
Editions differ considerably. Some are compact enough for travel or for a bedside table. Others include fuller canons and services for serious home use. Before selecting one, consider whether the reader needs large, easily read print; whether an accompanying Russian or English translation is desired; and whether the book includes the prayers customarily used in that household or parish tradition.
The Psalter holds a special place in Orthodox prayer. The Psalms give voice to repentance, gratitude, grief, trust, and praise with a directness that no modern text can replace. In monasteries and parishes, the Psalter is read continually. At home, it may be read in small portions, during fasts, for the departed, or in times of particular need.
A Church Slavonic Psalter may be arranged according to the twenty kathismata used by the Church. This makes it useful for readers who wish to follow the traditional divisions. Some editions include prayers before and after reading the Psalter, while others provide rubrics and commemorations. A reader beginning this practice should not feel obliged to undertake more than can be prayed with attention. One kathisma, or even a single psalm, read faithfully is better than a hurried rule that leaves the heart untouched.
A Gospel book in Church Slavonic is a worthy volume for the home, particularly for families seeking to preserve the language heard at the Divine Liturgy. The four Gospels are the words and saving acts of our Lord Jesus Christ. They deserve a clean, honored place in the prayer corner, rather than being stored among ordinary reading material.
For daily reading, a bilingual edition can be especially helpful. The Church Slavonic text preserves the liturgical form, while English or modern Russian assistance supports understanding. The aim is not simply to pronounce sacred words correctly, but to receive the commandment of Christ and carry it into life.
The Horologion, or Book of Hours, contains the fixed prayers of the daily cycle: Vespers, Matins, the Hours, Compline, and other services. It is a rich and serious book, often best suited to clergy, readers, chanters, monasteries, and experienced laypeople who have received guidance in home services.
Similarly, the Octoechos, Menaion, Triodion, Pentecostarion, and other service books belong to the full liturgical treasury of the Church. They are deeply beautiful, but their use can be complex because they follow the calendar, tones, movable feasts, and appointed readings. They make excellent additions for church singers, students of Orthodox worship, and families building a serious devotional library. For most homes, however, a prayer book and Psalter are the more natural first choices.
A Church Slavonic text should be treated with care, particularly when it contains Scripture or the prayers used by the Church. Editions from monasteries, established Orthodox publishers, or trusted ecclesiastical sources are generally preferable to decorative reproductions with uncertain text or incomplete contents.
Look first for legibility. Traditional Church Slavonic type can be unfamiliar, and overly small print may make a beautiful book difficult to use. A strong sewn or durable binding is valuable when the book will be opened daily. Gold stamping, an icon on the cover, or a refined gift case can honor the book’s sacred purpose, but these details should accompany sound text and practical construction.
It is also wise to consider the tradition of your parish. Russian Orthodox editions may use pre-revolutionary orthography, newer spelling conventions, or different editorial choices. Old Believer editions can differ further in typography and usage. None of these distinctions need cause confusion, but a conversation with a priest, reader, or experienced parishioner can help ensure that the chosen book is suitable for personal prayer.
For a godchild, a newly married couple, or a family establishing an icon corner, a Church Slavonic prayer book or Psalter is a meaningful gift. Unlike an object chosen only for a single occasion, it can accompany a person through feast days, illness, travel, repentance, and the ordinary mornings and evenings of a faithful life. A carefully presented volume, perhaps given with an Orthodox cross, beeswax candles, or a small icon, becomes a gift of prayer rather than merely a religious keepsake.
Orthodox books are not talismans, nor are they simply historical artifacts. Their purpose is to lead the reader toward God. Keep them in a clean and fitting place, ideally near the icons, and avoid placing secular objects on top of them. When reading the Gospel, many families stand if health permits, light a candle or lampada, and begin with the usual prayers.
Pronunciation need not become a source of embarrassment. Church Slavonic is learned by hearing and repetition. Read slowly, without theatrical emphasis, and let the familiar prayers settle into the memory. If a phrase is unclear, consult a translation after prayer or ask someone knowledgeable in the parish. Understanding and reverence belong together.
There is also value in reading aloud as a family. Children may not grasp every form of the language at first, but they recognize what is holy when they see parents and grandparents pray with care. The sound of the Psalms, the Trisagion prayers, and the Creed can become part of the home’s spiritual inheritance.
At Andija, Church Slavonic devotional books are valued as sacred companions made for real prayer, whether chosen for a personal rule, a family icon corner, or a thoughtful Orthodox gift. Begin with the book you can open faithfully, and allow the prayer of the Church to make a quiet home in the heart.
A beloved icon is not simply an image placed on a shelf. It is a sacred companion in prayer, a visible confession of faith, and a reminder that Christ, His Most Pure Mother, and His saints are near. Orthodox icon cases give these holy images a fitting place in the home while helping preserve them from dust, smoke, moisture, and accidental damage.
For a family prayer corner, an icon case can bring both order and reverence. For an icon received at Baptism, a wedding, a name day, or a great feast, it can also transform a treasured gift into an object prepared for many years of faithful use. The right case does not compete with the icon. It quietly protects it and directs the eye toward the holy face depicted within.
An Orthodox icon case is a protective enclosure or frame made especially for an icon. In Slavic tradition, such a case is often called a kiot. It may be crafted from wood, finished with a carved border, fitted with clear glass, or designed as a standing tabletop case. Some are simple and modest, while others have a more solemn, ornamental appearance suited to a central icon in the prayer corner.
The purpose is practical as well as devotional. A case creates a barrier between the icon and household dust, cooking vapors, candle soot, sunlight, and the ordinary movement of daily life. This is especially valuable for hand-painted icons, silver-plated icons, antique images, and icons with delicate details, gilding, or fine silver 999 elements.
An icon case is not itself an object of veneration. Honor is offered to the person depicted on the icon, not to wood, glass, or metal. Yet Orthodox Christians have long cared for holy things with attention and gratitude. A well-made case expresses that care without turning the prayer corner into decoration.
The prayer corner is often the spiritual center of an Orthodox home. Here a family keeps the icons of Christ Pantocrator and the Theotokos, perhaps alongside Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, the Guardian Angel, Saint George, Saint Spyridon, or the patron saint of each family member. A lampada, beeswax candles, prayer books, and a cross may also be kept nearby.
In such a place, the icon should remain visible, accessible, and protected. Orthodox icon cases help achieve all three. Glass helps reduce the cleaning required on the icon itself, while a stable frame can keep it secure on a wall or shelf. For homes with young children, pets, frequent guests, or limited space, this added protection is often a wise choice.
Cases also help create a more intentional arrangement. Several unrelated frames can make a prayer corner feel crowded, especially when icons differ greatly in size or finish. Choosing cases with harmonious wood tones, similar proportions, or complementary carved details can give the corner a settled, traditional appearance. The aim is not luxury for its own sake, but peaceful attention in prayer.
The first consideration is the icon’s exact dimensions. Measure the icon carefully, including its thickness, before choosing a case. A case that is too tight may press against the image or make removal difficult. One that is overly large can allow the icon to shift inside and may look out of proportion.
For a small personal icon, such as a Guardian Angel icon kept near the bed or a travel icon placed on a desk, a compact tabletop case may be enough. A larger image of the Savior or the Mother of God, intended for the main prayer corner, may call for a wall-mounted wooden kiot with a deeper profile and glass front.
Style depends on the icon and the home. Natural wood is especially fitting for traditional Russian Orthodox and Eastern Orthodox interiors, where warmth and simplicity allow the icon to remain central. Carved cases can suit feast-day icons, wedding icons, or a revered family image. A restrained design is usually best for a richly colored icon, while a more detailed case may beautifully frame a simple printed or silver-plated icon.
It depends, too, on how the icon will be used. If it is regularly removed for a home blessing, procession, or prayer service, choose a case that opens safely and does not make handling difficult. If the icon will remain permanently in one place, stronger wall mounting and a deeper protective enclosure may be preferable.
Glass-front cases are especially useful where there are candles or an oil lamp nearby. Even careful candle use can leave a fine film of soot over time. The glass takes the burden of routine cleaning while keeping the painted surface safer.
However, glass should not rest directly against the icon. A properly made case provides enough interior space for the icon to sit securely without touching the front panel. This matters for painted icons, raised details, and metal coverings. It also helps prevent trapped moisture from becoming a concern.
Wood remains a classic material because it is dignified, durable, and visually at home in an Orthodox setting. Fine workmanship matters. The case should sit squarely, open and close smoothly if it has a door, and have reliable hardware for wall hanging. A beautiful case with weak mounting is not a blessing to the household.
Protection should never make an icon feel distant. A case with overly dark wood, excessive reflections, or thick decorative elements can distract from the sacred image. Before placing an icon in its case, consider where it will stand and how daylight reaches the room.
Avoid direct sun whenever possible. Prolonged sunlight may fade colors and affect delicate finishes. Keep icons away from radiators, humidifiers, kitchen steam, and areas with sudden temperature changes. A case offers valuable protection, but it cannot correct every harmful condition.
For cleaning, use a soft dry cloth on the exterior wood and glass. Do not spray cleaner directly toward the case opening, and do not use household chemicals on an icon. If an older or hand-painted icon has visible cracking, flaking, warping, or staining, it deserves the care of a qualified icon conservator rather than a home repair attempt.
A prayer corner should also remain safe when candles are lit. Keep flames well away from wood, glass edges, fabrics, and paper prayer books. Beeswax candles should stand in secure holders on a stable surface. The presence of an icon case does not remove the need for attentiveness around fire.
An icon case can make a meaningful gift more complete. Godparents may present an icon of the child’s heavenly protector in a protective case at Baptism. A family may choose a matching pair for wedding icons of Christ and the Theotokos. For a name day, a case can be given with the recipient’s patron saint, making the gift ready for a bedside table or home prayer corner.
This is particularly appropriate when selecting an icon intended to become an heirloom. A carefully chosen case shows that the giver has considered not only the first moment of receiving the icon, but the years of prayer that may follow. Handmade workmanship, traditional wood, and a gift-ready presentation add dignity without changing the true purpose of the offering.
At Andija, Orthodox devotional goods are chosen with this same understanding: sacred objects belong in the life of prayer, in the home, and in the memory of the family. A case should serve the icon faithfully, whether it holds a humble printed image or a richly appointed silver-plated icon.
When choosing among Orthodox icon cases, begin with reverence and practical care. Select a size that protects without pressing on the icon, a style that supports rather than distracts from its holy image, and a location that keeps it safe from sun, smoke, and dampness.
Then place the icon where prayer can return to it each day. A well-kept icon case may be quiet and simple, but it helps preserve a holy image for the prayers of parents, children, and grandchildren who will stand before it with the sign of the Cross.
A family may remember that help came during an illness, a difficult journey, or a season of grief after standing before a particular icon with prayer. Such testimonies explain why miraculous Orthodox icons are treasured across generations. Yet the Orthodox Christian does not approach an icon as a charm or a source of impersonal power. Before the holy image, the faithful person turns to the living Lord, His Most Pure Mother, or the saint depicted, asking for mercy, intercession, strength, and peace.
The Church honors icons because the Son of God truly became man. In the Incarnation, the invisible God was revealed in the face of Jesus Christ. An Orthodox icon therefore bears witness to a central confession of faith: God has entered human history, sanctified matter, and called human persons into communion with Him. When an icon becomes known as miraculous, its place in the life of the Church is not spectacle. It is a call to deeper repentance, gratitude, and prayer.
The word miraculous is used carefully in Orthodox tradition. It may refer to an icon associated with healings, protection, consolation, answered prayers, or other signs of God’s mercy. Often, devotion grows over many years as believers bring their experience to the Church. A revered icon may be connected with a monastery, temple, pilgrimage site, or a local community that has prayed before it faithfully through hardship.
The miracle is never understood as belonging to wood, paint, silver, or any other material by itself. Honor offered to the image passes to the person represented. Christians venerate an icon with a kiss, a bow, or a lighted candle, but worship belongs to God alone. This distinction protects the sacred meaning of the icon and keeps devotion rooted in the Gospel rather than superstition.
Many of the most beloved miraculous icons portray the Theotokos, the Mother of God. The faithful seek her maternal intercession because she led the world to Christ and continues to pray for those who call upon her Son. Icons of Christ, Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, Saint Spyridon, Saint George, the Guardian Angel, and other saints are also received with heartfelt devotion. Each image directs the gaze beyond itself, toward the heavenly person whose life reveals God’s grace.
A miracle may be outward and unmistakable, but it can also be quiet. Reconciliation within a family, courage before surgery, freedom from despair, or the return of a person to confession and the Holy Mysteries may be the mercy for which someone has prayed. No one should demand a particular result from God. Prayer is not a transaction. It is the humble placing of one’s need before the Lord: “Thy will be done.”
A home icon corner is not a display shelf. It is a small place of prayer where the household remembers that Christ is the true center of the home. An icon known for miracles can be a precious part of this prayer corner, especially when it is chosen with reverence and given a fitting place.
Traditionally, Orthodox families place icons on an eastern wall when possible, though the practical arrangement of a home may require another location. A clean, quiet area is more important than forcing a placement that does not work. Icons should not be treated casually or placed where they can easily be damaged. A small lampada or beeswax candle may be used during prayer, provided it can be attended safely.
The customary foundation of a prayer corner is an icon of Christ and an icon of the Theotokos. From there, a family may add its patron saint, the Guardian Angel, or saints especially connected to the household’s life. An icon of Saint Nicholas may be chosen by a traveler or a family seeking his intercession. Saint Spyridon is beloved by many who bring material needs and anxious circumstances before God. Saint George strengthens those who ask for courage and steadfast faith.
There is no need to crowd the space with many images at once. A modest prayer corner, maintained with care and used daily, is more spiritually useful than an elaborate arrangement left untouched. For apartments, dormitories, and smaller homes, a compact color icon or a finely made silver-plated icon can provide a dignified focal point without requiring much room.
When selecting an icon, canonical imagery matters. Orthodox iconography does not simply aim to create a pleasing religious picture. Its forms, gestures, inscriptions, colors, and symbols have been shaped by the prayer and theological understanding of the Church. A canonical icon helps the faithful recognize whom they are addressing and enter the tradition handed down by generations of believers.
It is wise to begin with the saint or feast that has a genuine place in your life. A baptismal patron, a family saint, a beloved icon of the Theotokos, or Christ Pantocrator can be a natural choice. If you are purchasing a gift for a wedding, baptism, name day, house blessing, or feast day, consider the recipient’s patron saint and the size of the place where the icon will be kept.
Material and workmanship deserve attention, not because costly materials create holiness, but because beauty can be an offering. A handmade icon, monastery-made image, or icon covered in fine silver 999 plating can express honor for the holy person represented. Silver-plated icons also make enduring gifts, particularly when accompanied by a protective case. The right choice depends on purpose: a small travel icon serves differently from a larger icon intended for the family prayer corner.
For a sacred gift, presentation can be practical as well as beautiful. A fitted gift box or icon case helps protect the icon during travel and gives the recipient a proper way to keep it. If an icon is intended for a child, godchild, or someone newly entering Orthodox life, a durable, clearly rendered image is often more fitting than an overly ornate piece. The aim is not to impress, but to give an object that can remain close through years of prayer.
Prayer before an icon need not be complicated. Begin by making the sign of the Cross with attention. Stand quietly for a moment. Light a candle if appropriate, then offer the prayer that is already in your heart. The Jesus Prayer, the Trisagion prayers, a Psalm, or a short request for the saint’s intercession may be enough.
For example, before an icon of the Theotokos, one may ask: “Most Holy Theotokos, save us.” Before the icon of a saint: “Holy Father Nicholas, pray to God for us,” or “Holy Great Martyr George, pray to God for us.” These are not formulas meant to control God. They are words of trust spoken within the communion of the Church.
If you have received an answer to prayer, give thanks. If the answer has not come as hoped, continue with humility and speak with a priest when sorrow or confusion becomes heavy. Orthodox faith does not deny suffering, and no icon promises an easy life. The saints themselves endured trials. Their intercession teaches us to remain near Christ within every trial.
A new icon may be blessed by a priest, especially if it is being placed in a prayer corner or given for an important occasion. While a blessing is a cherished practice, the faithful should avoid anxiety or magical thinking about the process. The icon’s holy purpose rests in its canonical image and in the Church’s prayerful use of it.
Keep the icon clean and protected from moisture, smoke, and direct sun. Do not place drinks, household clutter, or unrelated objects in front of it. If an icon becomes damaged, treat it respectfully and ask your parish priest how it should be repaired, stored, or disposed of. These simple acts of care teach children and guests that the icon is not ordinary decoration.
Andija offers icons made with traditional Orthodox devotion, including revered images in color and fine silver 999 plating, for homes, prayer corners, and sacred gifts. The finest icon is not merely one that is beautifully finished, though careful workmanship is a worthy offering. It is the icon that draws its owner back to prayer, back to the saints, and above all back to Christ, who receives every sincere cry for mercy.
A Russian Orthodox cross is not simply a piece of religious jewelry or an ornament for the home. It is the sign of Christ’s victory over death, worn close to the heart, placed above the holy icons, and received with reverence at Baptism. Russian Orthodox crosses carry the theology of the Crucifixion in a form shaped by centuries of prayer, church art, and faithful daily use.
For Orthodox Christians, the Cross is holy because through it the Lord Jesus Christ offered Himself for the life of the world. When a believer kisses a cross, makes the sign of the cross, or wears a baptismal cross, the gesture is a confession of faith. The material may be silver, gold, wood, or another worthy substance, but its first purpose remains prayerful remembrance of Christ.
The form most readily recognized as Russian is the eight-pointed Orthodox cross. It has a long central bar, a shorter upper bar, and a lower slanted footrest. This form is also seen throughout other Orthodox traditions, though it is especially associated with Russian sacred art, church domes, icons, and devotional jewelry.
The upper bar recalls the inscription placed above Christ’s head: “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.” On many Orthodox crosses, this is represented by the Church Slavonic letters INЦI, a traditional rendering of the inscription. The central bar is the crossbeam on which the Savior’s hands were nailed. The lower bar represents the footrest.
The slant of the footrest is often understood in connection with the two thieves crucified beside Christ. Its raised end points toward the repentant thief, who entered Paradise through repentance, while the lowered end recalls the thief who rejected Christ. This image is not meant as a decorative puzzle. It proclaims that the Cross reveals both divine judgment and divine mercy.
Russian Orthodox crosses may also appear in six-pointed form, with the central bar and slanted footrest, or in a simpler four-pointed form. A cross may be plain and unadorned, or it may bear the crucified Savior, the Theotokos, saints, vines, prayerful inscriptions, or ornamental borders inspired by ancient Russian craftsmanship. The form should be chosen with reverence, not merely according to fashion.
Many Russian Orthodox crosses include abbreviated inscriptions that hold a complete confession of the Church’s faith. Their presence gives a pectoral cross or wall cross a distinctly traditional character.
Common inscriptions include IC XC, the sacred monogram for Jesus Christ, and NIKA, meaning “conquers” or “is victorious.” Together, IC XC NIKA declares: Jesus Christ conquers. The letters ЦРЬ СЛАВЫ, meaning “King of Glory,” may appear above the Lord. Some crosses include the words “Save and Protect,” a beloved prayerful inscription often found on baptismal and pectoral crosses.
A cross may also show the skull of Adam at its base. According to ancient Christian tradition, Golgotha is associated with the burial place of Adam. Christ’s Blood, shed upon the Cross, is understood as reaching even Adam, the first man, and restoring fallen humanity. Such imagery may look solemn, yet its meaning is deeply hopeful: death has been overcome by the life-giving death of Christ.
Because inscriptions can vary by workshop, monastery tradition, or available space, a small cross will not always include every customary letter. What matters is that the image remains respectful, legible where possible, and faithful to Orthodox sacred tradition.
The pectoral cross received at Baptism is ordinarily worn beneath clothing, close to the body. It is not worn as an accessory for display. It is a personal sign of belonging to Christ and a quiet companion in prayer, work, travel, sorrow, and joy.
There is no single material required for every believer. A child may receive a small silver cross on a sturdy chain or cord. An adult may prefer handmade sterling silver, gold-accented silver, or a more substantial gold cross for a baptismal anniversary, wedding, name day, or feast-day gift. A fine silver 999 plated cross can offer a luminous, traditional finish, while a plain wooden cross may speak to someone seeking simplicity.
Size and comfort matter. A cross intended for constant wear should have smooth edges, a secure bail, and proportions appropriate for the person wearing it. A larger, richly detailed cross can be beautiful, but it may be better suited to special occasions or a prayer corner than daily wear. For children, parents and godparents should choose a safe, comfortable size and inspect the chain or cord regularly.
A cross should be treated with care. It should not be casually placed among ordinary objects, discarded when a chain breaks, or used as a superstition. If a cross is damaged, it can often be repaired. If it can no longer be worn, it should be kept respectfully with icons or brought to a priest for guidance.
A baptismal cross is normally blessed in the rite of Baptism. Other crosses may be blessed by a priest according to local parish practice. Many faithful seek a blessed cross as part of receiving it prayerfully, especially when it is given for Baptism, a name day, or another sacred occasion.
The blessing is not a magical guarantee against hardship. Rather, it sets the object apart for holy use and calls the wearer to live under the sign of Christ. When selecting a cross from a monastery, temple workshop, or established Orthodox source, its provenance may be especially meaningful, but the Christian life is always nourished by repentance, prayer, the Mysteries of the Church, and mercy toward others.
A cross is among the most enduring Orthodox gifts because it joins spiritual meaning with lifelong use. Godparents often choose one for Baptism. Parents may give one to a child on a birthday or baptismal anniversary. A carefully made cross in a gift case is also fitting for a spouse, grandchild, or loved one preparing for a feast day.
For a baptismal gift, simplicity is often wise. Choose a canonical Orthodox design, a comfortable size, and a durable chain or cord. For an adult, a detailed Crucifixion cross, an eight-pointed silver cross with traditional inscriptions, or a custom-made precious-metal piece may better reflect the occasion. Personalized work in silver, platinum, or multicolored gold can be especially meaningful when a family wishes to mark a sacrament or preserve a treasured design.
Do not assume that the most elaborate cross is automatically the most suitable. A humble cross, received with faith and worn faithfully, can become more precious than a richly ornamented piece kept only for appearance. The best choice depends on the recipient’s age, parish custom, way of life, and devotional needs.
Russian Orthodox crosses also belong in the Christian home. Placed with icons of Christ, the Theotokos, the Guardian Angel, or beloved saints, a wall cross helps establish the prayer corner as a place set apart for God. It reminds the household that every prayer is offered through the saving work of Christ.
A wall cross may be carved wood, cast metal, silver plated, or made in a monastery workshop. In a small apartment, a modest cross above the icons may be all that is needed. In a family prayer corner, a larger cross can become the visual center, accompanied by beeswax candles, an icon lamp, prayer books, and icons received for Baptism, marriage, or family remembrance.
The Cross should be placed thoughtfully and kept clean. It is not a background decoration. Before it, Christians make the sign of the cross, ask forgiveness, give thanks, and entrust those they love to God’s mercy.
Andija offers Russian Orthodox crosses made for these sacred purposes, from traditional daily-wear pectoral crosses to refined gift-ready designs in silver and gold-accented finishes. Whether chosen for a child at Baptism, a loved one on a feast day, or a home’s prayer corner, the right cross should invite reverence rather than attention to itself.
When you hold a cross in your hands, let it call you beyond craftsmanship, metal, and ornament. “We worship Thy Cross, O Christ, and Thy holy Resurrection we glorify.”
A gift given for a baptism, name day, wedding, or great feast should remain with its recipient after the wrapping is removed. The finest Orthodox gifts do more than mark an occasion. They encourage prayer, preserve the memory of a blessing, and quietly take their place in the daily life of faith.
In Orthodox tradition, an icon, cross, prayer book, or candle is not chosen merely for its appearance. Each object has a devotional purpose. A thoughtful gift respects that purpose while also considering the recipient’s patron saint, family tradition, prayer rule, and stage of life.
There is no single correct gift for every Orthodox Christian. A godchild receiving the sacrament of Holy Baptism has different needs from a married couple establishing a prayer corner, or a parent remembering a beloved relative on a name day. The occasion provides a fitting starting point, but the recipient’s spiritual life should guide the final choice.
For baptism, a baptismal cross is among the most enduring gifts a godparent or family member can offer. It is worn close to the heart as a visible confession of Christ. A small icon of the Savior, the Most Holy Theotokos, the Guardian Angel, or the child’s patron saint may accompany it. When choosing jewelry for a child, consider a suitable size, a secure bail, and a design that is reverent rather than overly elaborate.
A name day calls naturally for an icon of the recipient’s heavenly protector. An icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, Saint George the Victorious, Saint Spyridon, Saint Matrona, or another beloved saint gives the recipient a sacred image before which to pray. If the recipient bears a less common baptismal name, a carefully selected icon of the appropriate saint may require more attention, but that care is part of the gift.
For a wedding or anniversary, the traditional wedding icon pair of Christ the Savior and the Mother of God is especially fitting. It honors the Christian household and offers a center for family prayer. A silver-plated icon in a gift case can be both dignified and practical, particularly when the couple is beginning a new home.
An Orthodox icon is a holy image that directs the heart toward the person depicted. It should be selected with reverence for canonical imagery, clear craftsmanship, and an understanding of where it will be kept. A small icon may travel in a bag or rest on a desk. A larger color icon may belong in the family prayer corner. An icon case offers protection and makes a meaningful presentation for an important occasion.
The image itself matters. Christ Pantocrator is a fitting gift for many homes and for men beginning or renewing a prayer rule. Icons of the Theotokos offer consolation and maternal intercession. The Guardian Angel is often chosen for children, travelers, and those entering a new season of life. For someone facing illness, uncertainty, or financial hardship, an icon of a saint known for compassionate intercession can be especially personal.
Revered and miraculous icons carry a particular place in Orthodox devotion. They should not be chosen as charms or treated as a promise of a specific worldly outcome. Their value lies in the prayer they invite and the Church’s living memory of grace, repentance, healing, and mercy. A gift giver may write a simple note naming the occasion and asking the recipient to remember the family in prayer.
An Orthodox cross is one of the most personal gifts a Christian can receive. Russian Orthodox crosses, traditional crucifixes, and pendants bearing the image of Christ or a saint can be worn daily as a confession of faith. Material is worth considering because a cross is often kept for many years and sometimes passed from one generation to the next.
Silver is valued for its quiet beauty and durability. Fine silver 999 plating gives an icon or devotional pendant a luminous, refined finish, while sterling silver and gold-accented designs may suit a milestone baptism, graduation, or anniversary. Custom work in silver, platinum, or multicolored gold is appropriate when a family wishes to create an heirloom piece.
The most expensive choice is not always the most fitting one. A modest handmade cross, selected with love and blessed according to local practice, may become more precious to its owner than a larger piece of jewelry. If the gift is intended for church use or for a child, ask the recipient’s priest or parents about local customs and practical preferences.
Some of the most helpful Orthodox gifts support the small, faithful rhythms of the home. A monastery-made prayer book, a book on the life of a saint, or a Russian-language devotional text can strengthen a person who reads and prays regularly. Language matters here. A beautiful book in a language the recipient cannot read may be less useful than a simpler edition in English or a familiar Slavic language.
Beeswax candles are a fitting offering for a prayer corner, a family feast, or a season of remembrance. Their warm light recalls the prayer offered before God, not a decorative mood. A candle gift may be paired with a small icon, a prayer rope, or a bell made for the home, creating a gift that invites the recipient to pause and pray.
For families separated by distance, these gifts can carry particular tenderness. A grandmother may send a small icon to a grandchild in another state. A son or daughter may give a prayer book to a parent who longs for the language and customs of home. In Orthodox diaspora communities, such objects often preserve both faith and family memory.
A curated gift set is especially useful when the recipient is newly baptized, establishing a prayer corner, or unfamiliar with Orthodox devotional articles. A well-chosen set may include an icon, cross, prayer book, candle, or presentation case. It gives the recipient several humble tools for prayer without making the gift feel impersonal.
Still, a gift set should be chosen with the same discernment as a single icon. Consider whether the saint, language, size, and materials suit the person. A compact set may be ideal for a student or traveler. A more substantial icon and candle arrangement may better serve a family home. Presentation matters too: a proper gift box or icon case protects the item and shows respect for what it contains.
At Andija, Orthodox goods from artisans, temples, and monasteries are selected with this union of devotional purpose and gift-worthy workmanship in mind. Handmade details, traditional imagery, and carefully finished silver pieces allow a gift to be both beautiful and suitable for prayer.
Before selecting a sacred gift, it helps to ask a few quiet questions. Does this image correspond to the recipient’s patron saint or need? Will the item be used in prayer, worn daily, or placed in the home? Is the size appropriate? Does the recipient read English, Russian, or another language? And, above all, is the gift being offered with a sincere desire for the person’s spiritual good?
Avoid treating icons and crosses as generic souvenirs. They deserve a place of honor, and the recipient should be able to receive them freely and reverently. If you are uncertain about a saint, an icon type, or a custom connected with a sacrament, a parish priest can offer guidance that no product description can replace.
A meaningful Orthodox gift does not need many words. Given at the right moment, with a prayer for the recipient, it can become a familiar companion through years of worship, hardship, gratitude, and grace.
This film is a perfect introduction to Jesus through the Gospel of Luke. Jesus constantly surprises and confounds people, from His miraculous birth to His rise from the grave. Follow His life through excerpts from the Book of Luke, all the miracles, the teachings, and the passion.
Before Jesus arrives, God prepares mankind. Prophets speak of the birth, the life, and the death of Jesus.
Jesus attracts attention. He teaches in parables no one really understands, gives sight to the blind, and helps those who no one sees as worth helping.
He scares the Jewish leaders, they see him as a threat. So they arrange, through Judas the traitor and their Roman oppressors, for the crucifixion of Jesus. They think the matter is settled. But the women who serve Jesus discover an empty tomb. The disciples panic. When Jesus appears, they doubt He’s real. But it’s what He proclaimed all along: He is their perfect sacrifice, their Savior, victor over death. He ascends to heaven, telling His followers to tell others about Him and His teachings.
In God, there is no division. Using this knowledge, Christianity for centuries defeated paganism, in which anything could be recognized as a god.
The Son of God, Jesus Christ, is also God himself. The Holy Spirit also represents God in the Holy Trinity. However, there is no contradiction here. Even though God is one, He appears in three forms.
We shouldn’t try to measure the Almighty by earthly standards. His presence can be found everywhere. Despite being one, he is also three persons at once. Not every person can understand intangible things. No matter what, you must believe in the Lord. Mercy will follow logically.
In explaining the trinity of God, St. John of Damascus compared it to fire and light. It is possible to call them different words, but they are the same thing. There is no separation between light and fire since it comes from the fire and remains within it. Consequently, the Son was born from the Father without being separated from Him.
“The Trinity existed before the ages, not having received existence from the beginning; it is eternal, ageless, immortal, infinite, non-increasing, indestructible …” wrote John Chrysostom.
As early as the New Testament, the Holy Trinity was understood in its current form. But the Trinity of God was mentioned even in the Old Testament.
The same holds true for images of the Trinity. So, at the dawn of Christianity, three husbands appeared to Abraham and were usually written down or laid out in a mosaic. They are most often shown standing upright. As time passed, the icons increasingly depicted three husbands sitting at the table. They can be served by Abraham alone or by his wife, Sarah.
A great master of icon painting, Andrei Rublev, created the image of the Holy Trinity that exists today. An icon he painted in the 15th century depicted three angels sitting at a table with a bowl. Icon painters have taken this image as their model ever since.
Father and Holy Spirit are very conditional images of God, which must be understood. With their own eyes, people could only see God – the Son. During Jesus Christ’s baptism, the Holy Spirit appeared in the form of a dove.
It is common for people to pray before the Holy Trinity on the eve of significant life events. Their passage and their end are dependent on God’s mercy. It pays to ask Him for help in advance when it comes to substantial matters.
We can find hope in difficult life situations by praying to the Trinity. There are times when prayer helps a person find his way out when he seems to have no way out, even if he appears to be doomed. In God’s will, an insoluble problem is resolved. This strengthens a Christian’s faith, and the faithful believer should pray even more to thank the Lord for his help.
It is common for people to pray for forgiveness or confession in front of the Trinity icon. Ultimately, a person seeks the Lord’s forgiveness. It is, therefore, most appropriate to repent of sins before the image of the Trinity.
By keeping the icon of the Trinity at home, we can be assured that housing and family will be protected. Obviously, righteous behavior is fundamental. There is more to an icon than just a decorative element in the corner. The presence of an Orthodox icon makes it possible to mentally tune in to God, thus encouraging more reflection on a person’s actions and the soul.
The Holy Trinity can be turned to for any reason as long as your thoughts are pure and sincere. The will of God determines every important event around us.
At https://andcross.eu, you can buy an icon of the Holy Trinity that differs in artistic features, materials, sizes, and price.
One of the icons was painted and consecrated at the Holy Dormition Monastery in Pskov-Caves. The author uses a unique technique for applying the image. The coating materials are tempera, varnish, and drying oil.
It is possible to make icons using gold or silver. As a result, these products are beautiful and last longer than icons painted on wood alone.
In addition to icons, candles dedicated to the Holy Trinity can also be included in sets containing several religious objects. You will save time and money by buying an Orthodox set instead of ordering multiple items separately.
Andcross Pilgrimage Spiritual and Educational Center engages in more than just selling Orthodox goods. Through various activities, we aim to enlighten Russian Orthodox Christians worldwide. It also promotes religious values through its online store. The Orthodox corporation can be contacted at store@andcross.eu.
Among Orthodox Christians, Spyridon, Bishop of Trimythous is considered one of the most revered saints. He is one of those patrons who help in everyday life. People turn their prayers to him when they need help in dealing with daily difficulties related to work, house, or finances.
Spyridon spent his earthly life on the island of Cyprus. He lived in the 3rd century. Back then, he already had the ability to treat the sick and fight evil forces. He eased physical pain and exorcised demons, helping people come back to their normal lives. Moreover, people addressed him when they had trouble with money, and he selflessly helped without demanding anything in return. 2,000 years later, people still pray to the saint in the hope to improve their financial situation.
The doors of his house were always open for travelers and the poor. Spyridon gave them shelter and food, despite being a poor shepherd himself. Since he helped many with lodging, modern people also ask for his guidance when buying or selling property. This saint helps honest entrepreneurs in business and increases their income earned by honest work.
The unemployed also feel the protection of the saint. He helps to find a job they like and get a good salary. Praying to Spyridon, one can get more than finding a new job. For example, you can achieve better results in the company you currently work for, find mutual understanding with your boss and colleagues, improve skills, and reach a new level.
For these good deeds, the Lord rewarded the shepherd from Cyprus with the most powerful gift. Spyridon had the power to resurrect the dead. Thus, one day he resurrected the baby girl. The mother of the baby passed away from shock and disbelief but the saint resurrected her as well.
Another amazing miracle is the story about crossing a tumultuous river. It tells how Spyridon hurried to aid an innocent man who has been arrested and sentenced to death. When Spyridon read the prayer and the waters parted, allowing the saint to walk on a dry bottom, the judge realized his mistake and released the prisoner.
And when there was a drought on the island, which led to famine, Spyridon, having become the Bishop of Trimythous by that time, made the long-coveted rain appear and save the crops with his prayer.
When Spyridon left the world of people during a fervent prayer. He knew his time on earth was over in advance.
Today, the relics of Saint Spyridon, Bishop of Trimythous are kept in a church in the city of Kerkyra on the Greek island of Corfu. Although being almost 2,000 years old, they are imperishable. And the body temperature is the same as that of a living person. Many other miracles occur that strengthen the faith of believers.
For example, clergymen have to change the saint’s clothes and shoes from time to time because they wear out. As if Spyridon keeps wandering as he did during his lifetime. And the reliquary where the relics rest sometimes doesn’t open, despite the efforts. The clergymen suggest that the saint may be absent – he’s still wandering and helping people.
There are modern testimonies as well. People share stories of how Saint Spyridon, Bishop of Trimythous helped them after silent prayer. After all, to receive the help of the Lord and the saints, we need to have sincere faith first. But according to Orthodox tradition, it’s better to say prayers near icons.
Therefore, it’s recommended for every believer to have an icon of St Spyridon at home and work. Especially if there are health problems or misunderstandings among family members, and a person wants to solve these difficulties, using the power of prayer.
You can buy an icon of St Spyridon on the website. The item is handcrafted and made of precious metals: gold and silver. The technology of PVD coating was used to create it. The Orthodox artisans made it with warmth and prayer. The item is delivered in a gift box.
You can order an icon of St Spyridon on the website or by contacting the company via email store@andcross.eu
An icon made of precious metals may become a family heirloom. Such a valuable piece will serve for hundreds of years, especially if you take care of it. Moreover, gold and silver are valuable metals regardless of the way they are used.
You can buy a precious icon for yourself or as a gift for a loved one. Any believer will be happy to receive such a gift. Even a non-religious person can be happy to get it. The icon can also be considered a work of art due to its high artistic value.
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Believers know that God can help a person recover even if modern medicine is powerless. You can hear numerous stories in any church when there’s a miraculous icon. Or when there’s a holy spring on its territory. Parishioners pray, kiss icons, bathe in springs, and miracles happen. The blind begin to see, the deaf begin to hear, and the weak gain strength. The main thing is to sincerely believe that the Almighty will help.
This is why millions of believers travel to holy sites, make pilgrimages, or just attend services in churches. At the same time, it’s possible to heal your body and soul at home. Again, the main condition is to have a strong faith deep inside your heart. And where there is faith, there should be its symbols.
First of all, these are icons. Images of Jesus Christ, the Holy Trinity, the Virgin Mary, saints, and the Guardian Angel help to communicate with them. They allow you to distract from everyday life and focus on prayer. Standing in front of the icon, you can ask for mercy and health. There are some saints who often help to recover. For example, Saint Nicholas healed many people, pacified demons, and even resurrected the dead during his earthly life. Christians believe that this great saint still does the same. There are icons in some churches that are considered miraculous. But the homes of the Orthodox are also full of sacred images that have significant value for the family that keeps them. One icon was used for baptizing, the other was given by parents during a marriage blessing or another important event, and the third was inherited from a grandmother.
Praying to the icons, the believer eventually comes to the conclusion that it’s important to do it correctly, according to the Orthodox tradition. To do this, one should have religious books at home. For example, the prayer book contains texts that have been competently compiled and not changed for hundreds of years. There are prayers for different situations, including the ones that help to recover and improve health. In general, reading any Orthodox literature and understanding it gives a person mental and physical strength, pacifies, and decreases passions.
The sound of the ringing bell has a truly bracing effect on a person. Even scientists who tend to believe only facts have repeatedly confirmed this theory in their works at different times. They say that these are special vibrations that do the healing. And among other things, they also destroy harmful bacteria and viruses. Of course, it’s better to listen to the bell chime in the church. But you can also get a table church bell for home. In fact, it’s exactly the same as we see on the bell tower but smaller.
The symbol of faith, which is the same in church and at home, is a light of a church candle. It contains the mystery of faith, humility, and strength at the same time. Candles are lit during prayer. People do it in the church and near icons at home. With a candle, both thoughts and prayers become purer. Or you can simply light it when you need to detach yourself from the bustle around you and have a private conversation with God.
Of course, every Orthodox should wear a cross consecrated in a church. It protects its owner from evil influence every day, even if a person doesn’t have a chance to pray in a church or anywhere else. Can the cross help in strengthening health and fighting against disorders? Yes, it can! This is why it’s called live-giving.
Another way to receive daily protection and salvation is to wear a ring on your finger. But just any fancy ring. The ring should be made according to the Christian tradition and consecrated in a church. Such rings have inscriptions inside or outside, for example, “God, have mercy”. To some extent, a person who wears such a ring unconsciously asks for the mercy of the Almighty all the time.
All items mentioned above can be purchased in a church or ordered online. The website of Andcross Corporation offers a large selection of Christian items. This is the online store of the Orthodox Art Corporation, which works with workshops and individual craftsmen from around the world.
All products are of high quality. Many of them are made from precious metals – gold and silver. Icons, crosses, pendants, and rings contain the elements of these metals. The bindings of books – the Gospel Book, Book of Akathists, prayer books, and book of Psalms – are made of noble thick leather, often with metal inserts. Candles are made from natural beeswax.
Many items from this online store are made in Orthodox monasteries. Regardless of the country of production, all items are consecrated according to the Orthodox tradition.
Handmade products made of precious metals with the finest engraving can be considered real works of Christian art. With careful treatment, they can stay the same beautiful and serve for many decades.
You can contact the Andcross International Orthodox Art Corporation by mail at store@andcross.eu, the contacts on the website, or place an order in the online store.
Pilgrim Ecclesiastic Educational Centre Andcross
Sacred images are an inseparable part of Orthodoxy. They are called “windows into heaven”, and some icons helped not only individuals but the entire nation. Among the most beloved and revered symbols in the Eastern Church is the icon of Our Lady of Vladimir.
The original painting is nowadays kept in a small church in the heart of Moscow. According to historians, it can be traced back to the early 12th century. The icon is not just the miraculous depiction of Theotokos with the Child but also a piece of Byzantine art. The artist who created the painting remains unknown.
The icon depicts the Divine Child being tenderly held by his mother Mary. He embraces Theotokos with his both arms and looks at her trustfully. The eyes of the Virgin Mary are fixed on the viewer – you can see strength, love, tenderness, wisdom, and compassion in them. Thanks to countless miracles, the sacred image quickly became the symbol of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Since its arrival in Vladimir, the icon has become the national palladium of the Rus. It is mentioned in numerous chronicles. Subsequently, the image began to play a prominent role in the history of the country. It defended the lands during invasions, wars, epidemics, and famine.
At all times, the Virgin of Vladimir was greatly venerated by nobility and took part in the major events of the state. The image has seen the coronations of great monarchs, was taken to the besieged cities and into battles and was even used in important ceremonies of the country. The sacred image has 3 feast days that are associated with specific miracles (when the icon was brought into the battle and thousands of people prayed to it in collective prayer).
There exist thousands of replicas of the icon of Our Lady of Vladimir. It can be found in almost every Orthodox church and home’s religious corners of devout Christians. Each copy received a bit of the miraculous power of the original and can help individuals in their hour of need.
The love and care of the Mother of God are endless, and they are enough to help everyone on this earth. Sincere and fervent prayer will never be unheard or unanswered. The presence of the consecrated image can help you focus on your thoughts and become closer to the Almighty.
It’s possible to turn to the Virgin of Vladimir with any request or problem:
For God, it doesn’t really matter what kind of icon you use. However, having handmade artwork created by skilled artisans at home is way better than purchasing a cheap item with short durability.
You can buy a beautiful reproduction of Vladimir Mother of God in the Andcross online store.
https://andcross.eu The size of the item: 5.12” (width) x 7.10” (length) – or 13 x 18 cm. The image is covered with 999 fine silver and has a stable wooden stand at the back.
Every believer has at least one icon at home. Through the sacred images, we can connect with the Heavenly Powers and ask for help. Through them, we learn to exercise and improve our faith. When purchasing good quality work at religious shops, you get a consecrated image that will never fade and stay in your family for generations.
You can also buy the icon of Our Lady of Vladimir as a thoughtful gift for your loved ones. At Andcross, we carefully wrap every item and pack it into a beautiful gift box. The exquisite quality of materials and fast delivery from Europe are guaranteed! Place an order today to welcome the blessing or the Mother of God into your heart and home.
Pilgrim Ecclesiastic Educational Centre Andcross
Every person in the world knows the name of St George. He is the saint that connects people from different cultures and religions. Muslims have legends about him, Eastern Orthodox buy St George icons, and Catholics depict the warrior on the stained glasses in their cathedrals.
Although he is venerated by many, little is known about his time on earth. There are plenty of controversial stories about the life of the saint. It’s generally believed that he was a Christian soldier under the command of the pagan Roman Emperor. Because of his faith, he was arrested and tortured for seven days. St George died a martyr after being executed.
That’s why people pray to him when they need strength, courage, and endurance. It’s possible to turn to the saint for improving your faith and dealing with difficult life situations.
St George is loved by religious artists – he is depicted on multiple frescoes, mosaics, statues, and sacred images. The most recognizable depiction portrays him as a horse rider slaying the dragon. This image of warrior derives from the legends where the saint saves the village from the cruel beast. The dragon represents the Devil’s craving to corrupt innocent souls.
In many countries, Saint George is the symbol of justice, valor, and patriotism. Several countries, regions, and cities call him their patron saint and defender. In Eastern Orthodox Church, the meaning of the icon of St George the Warrior is simple but clear: with his spear, he puts an end to the terror of paganism.
St George was canonized because he didn’t give up on God. Neither wealth nor power made him abandon his beliefs. That is why he serves as a symbol of unshakable faith for many Christians. Men, women, and even children can turn their prayers to this saint and he will hear everyone. Sometimes, it’s enough to just say simple words coming from the heart and light a candle in front of his image.
Most people believe that St George is the patron saint of warriors and soldiers only. Mothers pray to him to bring their sons back alive and innocent people ask for peace and conflict resolutions.
It’s hard to imagine what the lives of Christians would be without the assistance of saints. Sincere prayer is able to solve all complicated issues, and strengthen our faith in God and ourselves. When praying in front of the St George icon, people can make many requests:
The Andcross art store https://andcross.eu has consecrated images of St George the Warrior in stock. The dimensions of the item: 5.12” (width) x 7.10” (length) – or 13 x 18 cm. The handmade painting has plenty of small details and is covered with 999 fine silver. Every product comes with a gift box.
Not only military men can pray to this saint. In the hour of need, any believer can turn to the Martyr with his request. By the way, it will be good not only to ask for what you need or desire but also to thank the saint for listening and transferring messages to Our Lord.
By buying the icon of St George the Warrior at the Andcross art store, you bring the patronage of one of the revered saints to your house. Every item is an amazing piece of art handmade by Christian artisans. It will serve you and your family for generations and will keep you safe from all troubles and problems.
Pilgrim Ecclesiastic Educational Centre Andcross
It takes years and centuries to be canonized, although the life and deeds of some people make them worth the title of a saint. The original icon of St Matrona of Moscow was painted only 23 years ago (in 1999) but it’s deeply venerated by many Orthodox in Russia, Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria.
Since birth, Matrona was gifted with prophetic and healing powers. Her own life was tough but she always found the strength and bravery to help other people in their needs. Despite the problems with her physical health (the girl was born blind and became paralyzed at the age of 17), she always believed in God and even made several pilgrim trips to the holy sites.
After the Russian Revolution, Matrona had to leave her home and move to Moscow, where she secretly stayed in the houses of fellow Christians. During these years, many people came to see her and ask for her help with their troubles. It’s said that she was accepting up to 40 visitors every day until her last breath in 1952.
Her place of burial became a pilgrimage site for many Orthodox believers, although Matrona wasn’t declared a saint yet. The Russian Orthodox Church canonized her 50 years after her death – at the beginning of the 21st century. This is when the first icons were created.
According to her contemporaries, Matrona was widely known as a prophet and healer. She predicted major events in the history of the Soviet Union and the lives of ordinary people. There’s a legend that Stalin himself visited Matrona and asked for her advice. It happened when German troops reached the outskirts of Moscow during World War II. Despite this story being just a beautiful fable, it only proves how important Matrona’s influence was.
The saint’s main miracles are related to healing. And some of the cases were truly hopeless. Thus, there’s a story about a man who was able to move only in a wheelchair. Matrona invited him to visit her but said he must use his own legs to reach her. The man believed the wise prophet and literally crawled to her threshold. Needless to say that he walked out of Matrona’s house without any effort or pain.
Now that the saint is no longer with us, we can still rely on spiritual wisdom and help. Through sincere prayer in front of the icon of the Blessed Matrona of Moscow, we can deal with numerous difficulties. Her image is quite popular in Eastern Orthodoxy, that’s why there are many copies of her original icon. And everyone can purchase for himself!
On the icons, Matrona is always painted as an elderly woman with her eyes closed. Such an image is a perfect reflection of her actual looks. This is a unique depiction since all other saints are portrayed with their eyes open.
People often turn to the saint and ask for forgiveness and spiritual wisdom. It’s also believed that the icon of St Matrona of Moscow can help in:
You can buy a beautiful reproduction of St Matrona of Moscow in the Andcross online store
https://andcross.eu The size of the item: 5.12” (width) x 7.10” (length) – or 13 x 18 cm. The image is a precise copy of the original icon. The painting is covered with 999 fine silver plating.
In our lives, we can’t deal with all our troubles. That’s why we ask the Higher Powers to be our guiding light in the moment of darkness and despair. When you have the sacred images at home, it’s easy to turn to the saint with any request.
We recommend purchasing the icon of St Matrona of Moscow and other holy objects in religious shops. All the items at the Andcross Art Store are created by talented Christian masters and are already consecrated. We put every product into a beautiful gift box and deliver it to any country. Order the image of the Blessed Matrona today to surround yourself with divine protection and care.
Pilgrim Ecclesiastic Educational Centre Andcross
Icons play a crucial role in the daily lives of Christians. We turn to them in the moments of trouble when our burden is too heavy to bear. One of the most valuable images in the sacred corner of Orthodox believers is the icon of Jesus Christ Pantocrator.
This is a very specific depiction of Christ, disclosing his dual nature. On one hand, it shows him as a human because his face is asymmetrical. It reminds us that He once was a living being and walked on earth like everyone else. On the other hand, the word “Pantocrator” tells us about his position and power since this word is translated from Greek as “almighty”.
In Catholic and Orthodox churches, the image of Christ Pantocrator always occupies the central part of the building. A painting, mosaic, or fresco can be placed in the biggest dome, nave vault, or half-dome of the apse. Thus, the significance of His personality is highlighted.
No one knows when the first icons appeared but it’s believed that they reflect the true appearance of Jesus. The earliest Byzantine painting in this style dates back to the 6th century. Visitors of St Catherine’s Monastery at Sinai have a unique opportunity to say their prayers in front of the oldest icon of Christ Pantocrator. This depiction is a prototype of all other images of Jesus Christ.
What is so important about this depiction? First of all, the hands of the Savior are depicted according to all rules of iconography. With His right hand, He makes a blessing gesture, which grants Lord’s help to every prayer. In His left hand, he holds the open New Testament, which implies the good news of salvation.
Although the original image is made in gloomy and dark shades, more colors were added to older icons. Modern reproductions are covered with a thin layer of silver – to protect the precious icon and keep it in an excellent state for generations. You can buy a consecrated icon of the Almighty online and have it delivered to your doorstep.
The icon of Jesus Christ Pantocrator is usually placed in the center of your sacred corner. You can address Our Lord whenever you need his protection and help. Learning a special prayer would be great but simple words coming from your heart will be heard too. The Almighty already knows everything we have in our minds and souls. It’s impossible to hide our real intentions from Him.
With the icon of the Almighty in front of your eyes, you can pray for everything you need:
You can buy the majestic reproduction of Jesus Christ Pantocrator in the Andcross Art Store online
https://andcross.eu The size of the item: 5.12” (width) x 7.10” (length) – or 13 x 18 cm. The image is covered with a 999 fine silver plate and has a practical wooden stand at the back.
It is important to turn to Our Lord not only with a request but also with words of gratitude. If you can’t go to the church as often as you’d like to, purchase the consecrated image of Christ the Savior. Our religious store offers handmade icons created by Christian artisans. Every product comes with a gift box.
Having the consecrated icon of Jesus Christ Pantocrator at home means getting powerful protection from Our Lord and the chance to always ask for help and deliverance from troubles. Frequent prayers to the Savior help to find peace and spiritual harmony.
Pilgrim Ecclesiastic Educational Centre Andcross
Archangels are supreme angels. Creatures who, according to the Bible, live in Heaven and are close to God. Angels are also considered the army of the Lord that is supposed to protect people. That’s why they say that each person has a guardian angel. And above these angels are Archangels each of whom has their name and mission. Archangel Gabriel is one of them.
Archangel Gabriel is considered a blessed messenger, and in the Scripture, he is called the protector of the chosen people. Gabriel’s name is translated as “God’s Power”. In Kabala, he is acknowledged as the teacher of the patriarch Joseph, and in Islam – as the sponsor of Muhammad. It’s Gabriel that Muhammad got his knowledge from, and then he was moved to Heaven.
The Archangel is often depicted as a young man with a jasper mirror and a torch in his hands. The torch is used to light the way for the souls of the dead, and the mirror reflects good and bad deeds of people.
Gabriel represents the fact that the ways of God are past finding out, often unclear, but are learned with time and through hard work and studying. And it’s also important to listen to the voice of conscience. It’s in the Mirror that those who deserve it will later see the mysteries of God and the saving of humanity.
Acts of Gabriel are called miracles. In his honor, a stone, on which he wrote a song for the Blessed Virgin Mary was erected by appearing to one of the Athos monks, on Mount Athos back in the 9th century. One of the monastic cells near Karyaes is still there. Worshippers come to this cell. Its name is “Axion estin”.
Gabriel would often appear to the biblical characters. For example, he came to Moses when he was herding his cattle. It’s to Moses that Gabriel told about how the world was created. Then Moses captured the words of the Archangel in the Book of Genesis. Prophets of the Testament often told people about the future, whereas Moses talked about the past.
Archangel brought Daniel the news about the occurrence of the Savior in the future. Saint Anna gave birth to her daughter, who later became the Mother of Jesus, at the behest of Gabriel. He came to Mary a lot of times during her stay at the Temple of Jerusalem.
Zechariah was rendered mute for not believing in the Appearance of John the Precursor. And then Gabriel came to Mary again. He told her that she would conceive in her womb for she had found favor with God. Gabriel told Mary how she should name her son. He also told her who her son would become.
Gabriel would come to Joseph, Mary’s husband when he would start doubting himself, his wife, and his son. He would console him and tell him that his wife is innocent and his son was conceived immaculately. Gabriel accompanied Jesus through his whole life, and before his execution, he came to strengthen the faith of the Son of God during his ordeals.
The myrrh-bearing women who came to bury Jesus on the morning after the execution saw Gabriel. He told them to convey the good news about the resurrection of Jesus to his disciples. There are a lot of miracles associated with Gabriel’s name that even common people spoke about.
Today, Gabriel is acknowledged as a helper in difficult times and in taking decisions. That’s why people who cannot make up their minds bring candles and pray to him.
As Gabriel helped Anna conceive a child, men and women who dream of having a child ask the Archangel to give them one.
If a person feels that they’re confused, they pray that Gabriel sets their lost soul on the right path. Gabriel brings light and happiness. That’s why people turn to him when depressed or weary. After a person dies, their close ones ask Gabriel to carry the soul of the deceased to the Mercy Seat.
In Christianity, Saint Spyridon is revered as much as Saint Nicholas. Spyridon is a patron saint and a defender of Corfu – the island where his relics found their resting place. During his life as a shepherd and monk, he led a simple and modest life: didn’t speak or eat much. Asceticism in everything was his main motto. By this attitude, he showed the faithful Christians that an honest heart and firm faith work wonders.
Spyridon is known as the “walking saint” because he used to travel a lot. The saint was able to convert many pagans to Christianity. Nowadays, he is deeply revered in Russia, Greece, Eastern Europe, and the Baltic States, and venerated by both Eastern Orthodox Church and Roman Catholic Church.
For his numerous miraculous deeds, the saint got the name “Wonderworker”. Even after his death, he continues helping people in need. Sincere prayers in front of his icons allow people to find a way out of many difficult situations. The images of the saint can be found in almost every Orthodox church.
There are multiple depictions of Saint Spyridon – on some icons, he’s painted in full length, on the others, in waist length. However, some distinctive features can tell you that this is the right saint you are looking at. The monk is dressed in bishop robes and has gray hair. As a representation of his shepherd’s past, his head is covered with a woven hat made of straw.
In his left hand, he’s holding a Gospel Book. In some images, he holds a shard with a flame in his right hand with water dripping from it. According to one legend, he was trying to reason with a pagan philosopher by showing him a true miracle. The monk took a shard (other legends say it was a brick) in his hand, fervently prayed to Our Lord, and the shard burst into flames on one end, and the water was pouring down from its other end. Thus, he showed the unfaithful how three things can be one. This piece of pottery with three different entities represents the Holy Trinity.
Saint Spyridon acts as a shepherd for people who have lost their ways. He prays for all people in need and grants them food and shelter. In the past, people prayed to him to ask for good weather and an abundant harvest.
Now, people seek St Spyridon’s protection in all kinds of lawsuits, especially if they were wrongly accused. A sincere prayer coming from the heart can help solve issues related to work, financial situations, business, problems with the property, and debt repayment. People turn to him when they are desperate to improve their financial situation or buy a new house. The saint hears everyone and helps those believers who have pure intentions.
The saint is revered by working people. You can turn to him to help you in finding a good job or become a more valued employee, to protect your business from competitors, or save you from being unfairly fired.
If having the icon of Saint Spyridon the Wonderworker at home, you can turn to him with your requests as often as you need. According to the legends and stories described in Byzantine literature, he became famous for healing and resurrecting people. You can pray to him for health – and ask for the well-being of yourself and your family. Remember that prayers that you say out loud are the strongest!
You can order a silver-plated icon of Saint Spyridon the Wonderworker for yourself and your close ones. The Andcross Orthodox Workshop Store offers you high-quality goods that will serve for generations and can become a family heirloom. Moreover, the protection of the saint in financial-, health- and business-related situations will always be with you.
The image of Saint Nicholas has a special significance for all Christians. He is one of the most venerated holy men in all denominations. His images, statues, and frescoes can be found in almost every church. And many believers buy the icons of St Nicholas the Wonderworker and place them near the images of God, the Virgin Mary, and the Holy Trinity.
During his lifetime, Nicholas was a generous and helping person. He donated his family wealth to the poor and choose to live a simple life. According to legends, the saint has performed numerous miracles during his time on earth, that is why he got the name “Wonderworker”.
Relics of St Nicholas are highly valued by all Christians. Even his icons are believed to be miraculous. People pray in front of them and ask the saint to help them in their needs.
All images of the saint on contemporary icons are based on the ancient depictions of this holy man. And the very first versions of his images are believed to be very close to his actual appearance. Usually, it’s easy to recognize Saint Nicholas in the church. He is depicted as gray-haired old man with a silver beard.
One of the most distinguishing features of the saint is the unusually high forehead. People who see his image for the first time note the deep and wise look of the holy man. The whole posture of St Nicholas radiates harmony and peace.
There exist several depictions of the saint: waist-length or full-length and with different details on the background. He is always dressed in the attire typical for Orthodox bishops (called omophorion). In his left hand, he holds the Holy Scriptures, and his right hand is lifted in blessing. This gesture stands for the patronage of people in need.
The images of St Nicholas possess miraculous power. After sincerely praying in front his icons, faithful people find solutions to their problems.
To understand the extraordinary power of this holy man, we need to turn to multiple stories and legends about his life and deeds. There are many of them: the saint bringing the murdered boys back to life, calming seas, helping the poor, and providing food during a severe famine. In general, we may say that he helps faithful Christians in trouble.
An icon of St Nicholas the Wonderworker will be a great gift for every believer, despite his age, profession, or gender. He is the patron saint of children, sailors, travelers (especially those who make sea voyages), students, businessmen, merchants, unfairly accused people, and maidens who want to find a proper spouse.
In our time, the saint performs his miraculous deeds. Faithful people share their stories of how St Nicholas assisted them in finding a new job, happily marrying, getting rid of illnesses, preventing car accidents, and many other situations.
Saint Nicholas is also revered in Islam. Although his images cannot be found in Muslim homes and houses of worship, people still address this saint in their deepest and most desperate needs.
St Nicholas is one of the most honored saints in Christianity. When people go to the church and don’t know who they turn to, they pray to him. And he always helps.
Buying an icon of St Nicolas the Wonderworker for your house is a great idea. We don’t always have the opportunity to go to church but frequently need the protection of the divine power. Praying to the Saint can heal from diseases, raise a healthy child, and get the patronage of one of the most revered saints in everything you do.
Some people buy small and simple icons to hang above the entrance door – thus, the saint will protect everyone who enters and leaves the house. Having an image of Saint Nicholas in the car will grant a driver and his passengers a safe journey. Beautiful silver icons made in the church workshop may become a family heirloom and passed from one generation to another.
On the website of Andcross Orthodox Workshop Store, you can order a silver-plated icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker. We offer a large selection of icons made by Christian artisans. Such an image will protect you and your family from difficult life situations.
On the website of Andcross Orthodox Workshop Store, (https://andcross.eu)
The idea that the fear of the Lord can transform into wisdom appears in Proverbs 9:10. Then, the knowledge of something, which turns into understanding God, appears. This extract perfectly explains the idea of true wisdom. Only the real fear of the Lord can lead a sinful person to real knowledge. It means that all other forms of realization are quite useless if they are not related to the fear of God. Before understanding this idea, one needs to find the meaning of the word “fear” in the Bible.
This word has several meanings in the Bible. Foremost, it is the feeling that a human being experiences in a certain situation. This explanation is given in Deuteronomy 2:25. Another idea describes it as a relationship between a master and a slave. A slave is always afraid of the master, and he constantly serves God. Besides, feeling the presence of God’s greatness can be interpreted as awe. In fact, the fear of God comprises all these interpretations.
The idea of fearing God can be interpreted as the constant realization of the Supreme always keeping an eye on us. He follows us our entire lives and evaluates all our actions. This can be compared with the words of Jesus Christ, who said that he knew all the things people did. Nothing can slip his attention.
If anybody wants to work on this feeling, he must make a confession. It includes accepting God without questioning. We must see the power, might, beauty, and marvel of the Supreme with our souls. All the people who ever experienced fear of God keep in mind the idea of his existence. They have great awe, and they tend to obey him at any time.
Proverbs 1:7 explain to us that foolish people can’t experience fear of God. It is explained like this: they despise wisdom, and only this quality is the fear itself. This phrase explains that there is a remarkable difference between the two kinds of lives. One can live a wise life, the other can live a shallow life. A wise man is permanently afraid of God, he always serves him. A fool always neglects God. A fool can’t follow any advice on what to do. A wise man remains the same his entire life because he has some wisdom in him. A fool has none, so he can’t be transformed into a wise person as his soul is empty.
One can’t become wise if he denies God. This is impossible. Even Romans 1:21-22 prove it. It is written there that one can’t become a wise man if he doesn’t praise the Supreme. Even with the best intentions, a fool remains the same as he has a shallow mind. Nothing can be achieved if you keep ignoring the Supreme as it is the basis of wisdom.
The connection between God and wisdom simply means that a sinful person can gain wisdom if he creates his personal image of God. Lots of people have a desire to turn God into a nobody. In this situation, God doesn’t threaten anybody. If we aren’t afraid of God, we can’t become wise. For most people, God exists only to bless. It is a convenient way to live when everything is acceptable. In this case, people are not afraid of the Supreme. The greatness of God starts when we are really afraid of him. He is powerful, he can do everything, and any person must understand it. He has endless power.
We obtain wisdom when we kneel down in worship. This is a situation when we are open to God, and we are afraid. Wisdom implies looking at everything as God could have looked at it. Besides, he could have reacted in a certain way, so a person should do the same. Wisdom is always a priority, and one should always look for it. One can find this idea in Proverbs as this book is considered to be wise. The whole book is devoted to the search for wisdom and the ways to obtain it.
We won’t be able to achieve “wisdom from the heavens” if we have a misunderstanding with God. A person must live as he is fully connected with God. Undoubtedly, we can do lots of things on earth, and we can make any choice. The only problem is that this is all done without wisdom. There is one thing missing here: it is something that defines a person as wise. One parable tells the story of a famous farmer who wanted to make a fortune. His plan seemed to be quite wise but God told him that he was a fool. The main problem with the plan was that it was created without any slightest idea of God.
If we don’t have a real fear of God, we won’t be able to make lots of decisions. They are all based on our daily experience. When we feel the fear of God, we make these decisions the other way. We make them only with God’s approval. We keep on living, understanding that God is here. He keeps His watchful eye on us. He evaluates every step of our lives.
The respect for greatness leads us to honor the Supreme. We are always thankful to God as he has mercy for us. We must clearly understand that there exist a God of love and a God of fear at the same time. He frightens us to keep us far from evil. When we live according to religious traditions, it leads us to wisdom.
As we know from the Bible, God is a spirit. Due to this fact, it becomes impossible to see his face in real life. According to Exodus 33:20, no one can see the face of God. We aren’t able to see God as we are full of sin. We can’t perceive him in his glory. It is hard to imagine how God looks like, it is something mysterious and divine.
From the Bible, we’ve learned that God appears in front of people in different forms. When someone sees Him, he can get an idea of how he looks. God reveals Himself in a form that people can comprehend. To imagine how God really looks like is beyond our knowledge. When he appears, it happens only for a couple of seconds. This is how he gives us an understanding of his existence. The purpose is not to keep his image in mind.
Ezekiel describes the image of God this way: “Above the people’s heads, there was something unusual as if it was a throne made of sapphire. Above it, there was a figure resembling a real man. Half of this person looked as if it was made of glowing metal. It seemed that he was full of flame. There was also light around him. It can be compared with a rainbow appearing on a rainy day. This glow looked exactly the same”.
Revelation states that God has fair hair as if it was made of snow. His eyes were full of flames. His feet looked like melted bronze, and the voice reminded the sound of the water. Holding several stars and having a sword in his mouth, he looked like the Sun, glowing with all its might.
These are the best-known attempts to describe the image of God. All the facts and descriptions were based on symbolic languages, as it is impossible to describe His appearance with any of the humans languages. Once, everyone will see God. There will be no sin on our way to heaven, so we can see God in his true appearance.
In order to understand what it is, you should refer to the Sacred Texts. According to the scriptures, this prayer is the prayer that Jesus has taught his faithful disciples. He’s given an exact formulation and the way one should pray to God, the words that should be pronounced, and what should be the purpose of it. The text can be found in the Gospel. There are people who do not know how to read this prayer correctly and people who give this prayer special importance.
It is important to note that the words that a Christian says during prayer, their sequence and whether they add up to verses are not that important. What is important is what the soul says – the true motives, the true faith of a person. And those words (they may not be the most eloquent thoughts but real and sincere words) will help to connect with God and convey your message to him. First of all, prayer is a revelation, a story about the most secret, intimate, and important things every person has to say to God. It is important to be honest here. It is important to open your soul and heart and let God in, instead of reading a memorized text (this makes no sense because God will immediately see hypocritical and insincere words).
Prayers should be a reflection of your soul, your true state, and your true faith. It is impossible to hear a sincere prayer from a non-believing person. Share everything that worries you, and open your soul without hesitation (you can even cry during your prayer). A Christian who believes in his words and in God will be worthy of his attention.
What does this prayer give?
This prayer can serve as a model for how to pray. You can find various words, the structure of the phrase, or other helpful things if there is almost no experience. For example, you should always address God when you start a prayer, say some words that praise him and wish him well, and so on. Here you need to fully understand why you turn to God because you should not pray for the sake of praying. The goal of praying can be a request, gratitude, or praise. Do not forget about the proper conclusion, you must make God get into your position and convince him to pay attention to you and help you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can say that the Lord’s Prayer, which was presented by Jesus Christ for his disciples, is nothing more than a perfect example of how to address God. You can call it the general model (or general principles for reading a prayer). Do not forget that God does not need you to memorize the text but he wants to hear only sincere words that will reflect your faith and the principles of the Christian life. Open your soul to him and tell him about your most secret thoughts (or about your sins because your sincerity is especially necessary for forgiveness). Open up to God and he will hear you.
A cross is a religious symbol, that appeared long ago. It has a history of more than 2000 years. The cross is a divine beginning of every believer. This symbol is recognized by people all over the world. There are a lot of types of crosses and their meanings.
It is important to mention that the word “cross” is often related to the word “crucifix”. In fact, they mean the same. The main symbol that can be seen in it is Jesus Christ. But there some differences in them. They depend upon the direction of Christianity. These religious elements can have various forms and performances.
As we speak about different performances, it is hard to count how many of them exist. In general, they can be divided into the following groups:
Let’s have a look at these cross styles from a more detailed angle. The first type is the most widespread. It is characterized by the image of God on it. It is a typical element on the religious thing among the Christians. This performance is used in different spheres. It can be found in literature, art and even cinema. Among all the types of Christian crosses, this one is the most popular and religious.
A Celtic variant is less widespread than Jesus cross. But at the same time, it found its popularity in the UK. At the beginning of the 5th century, this religious element firstly appeared in England, and then in some other countries like Scotland and Ireland. The peculiar feature of it is a ring inside. This type is rather popular in fashion.
Upside Down performance is one of the most unusual crosses styles. The appearance of this version is connected with the name of Saint Peter. As it is known, he was crucified upside down, and due to this fact, such performance appeared.
There are some types of elements that are quite interesting, due to their meaning and performance. Wooden performance is quite symbolic. If we remember the story of the crucifixion, Jesus Christ was crucified on the wooden cross. It symbolizes a strong belief and devotion to Christianity.
The orthodox variant has different versions of it. The most popular is the Russian Orthodox performance. The main difference of it, is the presence of three horizontal beams. Among the most unusual cross types, one should be always mentioned. It is called Jerusalem. The composition of it includes five crosses: one as the main, and four others that surround it. The story of its appearance dates back to the Middle Ages. It is used as a symbol of the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
Coptic has a rather decorative style. It is shown with lots of flowers and arms. There are 12 points on it. The number of them corresponds with the number of Apostles. Every believer knows that there were twelve of them. Templar variant was used mainly by knights in the Middle Ages. And the last version is Tau. It is shown in the form of the letter T. Its history has more than 2000 years.
Different directions of Christianity were the reasons why so many religious symbols appeared. Different types of crosses are among them. Every approach in Christianity wants to emphasize its importance. Due to this fact, they made up some unique symbols. Different crosses are the results of their struggle. Nevertheless, all these variants have the same meanings. They show that a person believes in God. No matter what type of it he is wearing, he is under strong protection.
Rosary beads are very important in the life of Christians. When they want to ask God for anything they pray the rosary. But very few religious people are aware of how to do it correctly. The main questions that can be solved through the meditation can be love, recovery and progress in some actions. Women usually ask for a baby, men often ask for the promotion.
One of the key factors about prayer is the participation of the group. If a person is not alone, all the surrounding people must take part in it. The part of the introduction is very important, as it prepares a believer in deeper meditation and communication with God. When you are going to ask God for anything, concentrate on the topic you are interested in. You need to bring your troubles and questions to Saint Mary. She cares about a religious person. She delivers your wishes and problems to Jesus Christ.
The first thing to remember about the rosary prayer is holding a crucifixion in hands. A person must give a short description of the faiths. The first main bead includes the words to God, the Supreme of all the Christians. The next coming elements are responsible for the words addressed to Mary. It is based on the words written in the Bible. These words are responsible for the most important things in life. And the last step of rosary prayers must be connected with appealing to the Glory Be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. It is a strong devotion to the Holy Trinity. After all these steps, a believer is ready to go to the first decade.
When we speak about the number of decades, we often mean that there five of them. They include the groups that unite 10 beads. But there is one big bead between ten small ones. Then you come to the next steps on how to say the rosary. The next large element is responsible for communication with the Father. Every next decade on a small bead is responsible to the address to the Hail Mary. After the 10th bead, a pious person usually prays to Fatima. These steps can be repeated within four decades. When you are doing these activities, you can concentrate on the mysteries of these peculiar features.
And the last actions include the final words to God. They are pronounced on the medal. They finish the rosary. When we complete this decade, we usually ask to take care of us, guide us and achieve perfection. In the next steps appeal to the Hail. There is a hope that a person’s life can be changed for the better. And the last important point about this instruction is holding the crucifixion. It must be represented in a sign of the Cross. When you begin doing it regularly, you will understand how to pray the rosary without any hints.
This type of meditation is important for Christians. Through these words, they open their souls to God. It is vitally important to follow the main rules, that’s why this rosary guide will be helpful for people who never practised such actions before.
The desire of young people to dedicate their lives to God is quite good. It means that they are ready to sacrifice. Everybody wants to clear his soul. But the main trouble they face is ignorance. They don’t know what to start with. Just visiting the church won’t enough. It requires much power and knowledge. Rosary for dummies means nothing. And if a person learns the rules of how to behave, what to think about, how to concentrate, it adds some power to his words and thoughts. Every ritual includes seriousness and patience. You can’t reach the divinity without it. If you want to achieve purity of the soul, follow these simple ways how to pray the rosary.
Quite a few Orthodox believers are familiar with the world of angels. The main reason for ignorance is the limited information about these celestial creatures. Angels appeared long before humanity. They are spiritual beings who represent the following basic features: will, power, mind and personality.
These creatures are not visible with a human eye. They are sent to the people by God. Sometimes they bring the message to the person about a human’s destiny and the whole world. And one of the main archangels is St. Michael. In ancient writings, he was considered as a leader, a Prince of the army of the Lord, as he was the main fighter against evil. That’s why saint Michael prayer is so powerful.
Archangel as well as fighting evil forces helps people in misfortunes and troubles. Every believer who addresses to an angel is sure to be heard through archangel Michael prayer. They pray to him because he is a reliable defender from the evil for every Orthodox Christian who believes.
Prayer to St Michael is important when people want to get assistance in these spheres of life:
If a person wants to get help from the archangel, he uses the st Michael prayer. Saint Michael will help believers perform miracles in their lives. Prayer to Saint Michael will help a student or schoolchild pass the exam successfully. If you need to do this, just read St Michael’s prayer. Even if you are going on a long journey, or if you are often away from home on duty or a business trip – read it before your journey to ask him for protection and luck. Archangel often helps people prevent various kinds of misfortunes in their lives. If your prayer is sincere, the angel will surely support you in any situation, even in a very difficult one. The most powerful is the prayer that is read on the day of Archangel Michael-September 19.
Today, a lot of young modern people live far from the Church. They have their own separate faith. Such people remember the existence of higher powers only when some misfortune has already happened. They do not pay attention to the fact that before this, their life was filled with deceit, theft, laziness. This position is far from correct. Remember that before filling your heart with good divine energy, you need to get rid of the bad one through the prayer of St Michael. Otherwise, there may be exacerbations. To do this, you need: ask for forgiveness from all the people you have offended; stop criticizing people; do not take drugs or other psychotropic substances; remove swearing from your conversations.
The angel always helps anxious, confused people who cannot find a certain position in life. Also, the guardian can strengthen your faith, remove all worries and fears, especially those that torment your soul. There are prayers in which the reader asks to give him courage, strength, endurance, to get rid of selfish and arrogant motives to achieve the desired goal. If you read St Michael the Archangel prayer from your sincere heart, he will not ignore you. You will definitely feel it on the physical level when this warm energy passes through your body. If you need reliable protection, read the Saint Michael the archangel prayer for protection.
Among all the believers, this prayer is widespread and most of them read it when they are in low spirits. St Michael prayer can solve the problems and help to find the right way of the decision or the choice.
A lot of people know that rosary is an important part of their life. But very few of them really know what it means. They don’t know how to pray it either. Due to its fact, it is vitally important to specify the rosary mysteries. When people are going to meditate on it, they want to achieve self-awareness and confidence in their actions. Everybody must follow his own way of meditation. There is a brief overview of the mysteries of the rosary.
If we pay attention to the number of these religious elements, we will get to know that the number of them is 20. They are:
At the beginning of their history, there were only three of them. And the latest was introduced by Pope John Paul II. All groups have special concepts that are related to Jesus and Mary’s lives. It is a concept that is sometimes called “fruit”. These elements must lead a person to the right actions in life and arise inspiration in humans’ souls.
Every group of christian rosary mysteries is associated with different events in the life of the saints. Joyous mysteries are focused on Jesus’s Incarnation. They include such fruits as humility, love to the neighbour, spiritual poverty, purity of body and mind and obedience. So, they are the first group of christian mysteries. These mysteries also reveal the story of Jesus appearance, when Mary knew that she was going to become a mother. Poverty, in this case, is connected with Jesus, when he appeared and put himself just in front of the poverty, wars and mess.
Then comes the second group that is called the sorrowful. They are connected with the death of God. Every mystery of the rosary performs here its own fruit. It can be mortification, pardoning of injuries and others.
Mysteries of the holy rosary that are associated with glorious events are connected with the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is connected with such fruits as faith, hope and others.
Today’s rosary mysteries have four groups. The latest was added at the beginning of the 21st century. When they were added, the society didn’t like new mysteries. The believers thought that they are not necessary, they were rejected first of all. Nevertheless, today’s rosary mystery has already four groups. The pious thought that they changed the right relations between the number of mysteries and the psalms corresponding to them.
Every mystery of the rosary is important for a religious person. He must know the rules on how to pray on them. There are even special days when a believer can pray to this or that rosary. All the people who are devoted to the church know these days and strictly follow these rules. If we ask them what are the mysteries of the rosary, they will answer that it is a special ceremony.
It is a special way of meditation, when a person puts his thoughts and ideas together to realize his presence in the current world. But at the same time, they are rather widespread among other religions. They can also be found in Buddhism. In Hinduism and Islam, they also exist. But they have special meanings in each form of religious presentation.
For example, in Islam a typical rosary consists of 100 beads. They include three groups. In Hinduism there are 108 beads. So, the number of them varies but not greatly. It proves the fact that all the religious directions are connected and have the common roots. The notion of rosaries is important, as a lot of young people are trying to be religious, but they don’t know the simplest notions. They must be taught about their history and the way to pray on them.
All around the world, the name Jude is synonymous to the word betrayal. As according to the Bible, it was exactly Jude who betrayed Jesus Christ. However, it is not a widely known fact that Iscariot was not the only student of Jesus Christ. Jude of James, the Apostle was not only a follower of Christ’s teaching, but it is also believed that he was a Jesus’s sibling brother.
Saint Thaddaeus was a son of Saint Joseph and was of a noble origin, as his bloodline goes to the King David of Israel and Judah himself. His name is derived from the name of James the Just. Jude picked this name because he considered himself unworthy to be the brother of the Lord. As many others, he did not believe in the divine origin of Jesus Christ and did not recognize his powers and the link to God. When Saint Joseph returned from Egypt to Israel, his children started to carve up these lands between each other. The rights of Christ on these lands were not recognized by his brothers, because he was immaculately conceived; hence, he did not share the same bloodline and was not considered as their brother. St Jude was the only one successor, who acknowledged Jesus and divided with him their lands. After some time, he believed in the divine origin of Jesus Christ and became one of his disciples. St Jude still could not deal with the fact that once, Jesus Christ, as well as his brothers, pursued his self-interest. Therefore, Jude claimed that he cannot be considered as a brother of God and decided to change his name.
There’s another Jude also mentioned in the Bible. So, in order to avoid confusion, St Jude was referred to as St Jude Thaddeus, which means one who praises.
In the aftermath of the horrible Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, Thaddeus went into pilgrimage around different countries in order to spread Jesus’ teaching. He visited Judea, Edom, Galilee, Samaria, Syria, Mesopotamia and Arabia.
During his pilgrimage, Thaddeus visited Persia where he conveyed the Epistle of James (which is mentioned in the Bible). This small Epistle (one chapter) tells about the existence of good and evil angels, how the soul of every person stands the Final Judgment, and opens the secret of teaching about the Holy Trinity. Thaddeus in his Epistle tries to show the people the right way of life: to pray, to love and care about people around and not to back down on your faith. He was instigating people to commit good and just deeds, and to follow the commandments in order to have a pure soul.
Thaddeus met his fate in the City of Ararat, Armenia. During his pilgrimage many people became his disciples and followed his teaching. When he reached Armenian lands, local priests found out about him. They didn’t want to have a spreader of a new religion in their lands, so it was decided that Jude should be tracked and killed. St Thaddeus suffered a terrible death: he was subjected to cruel torture, then he was crucified and his body was pierced by numerous arrows.
Relic of Saint Jude is now placed in the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and St. Elijah’s Monastery in Odessa.
By the means of prayer a person can communicate with God and the saints: ask them for help and protection, thank them for all the good he has and find repose and hope. It is considered that every Saint is responsible for a specific aspect of Life: healing, family happiness and so on. St Jude Prayer helps those who:
Before praying to the Apostle-martyr, calm down, don’t get distracted and concentrate on the text of the prayer. Believe in everything you pronounce and be sincere. Then, your prayer will be heard.
Christianity is, first of all, a monotheistic religion, as all believers worship one God. However, there are still differences, and they relate primarily to the different branches. This concerns mainly Protestants and Catholics. The difference between Catholic and Protestant lies not only in terms of the religious ceremonies, but extends much further. Before a believer decides to join one of the confessions, it is necessary to find out where exactly the differences lie.
If you are determined to find the answer to this question, then you have to turn to history. First of all, the appearance of the Catholic Church is associated with the Pope. The first Pope was St. Pin, since that time the Papacy has been counting down.
It is known from history that the Catholics appeared during the Roman Empire, which was led by Constantine. The Bible was amended during that period. This was done in order to interpret the creeds in favor of the powerful Roman Empire. Whereas the primary goal of the religion was to create monotheism, so Christ had to be placed at the head of everything.
Just like in Catholicism, there was also a leader. He was Martin Luther, who expressed disregard toward the performance of duties by priests. Despite the fact that there are such opinions that Martin Luther made an attempt to reform the church, in fact, this is not entirely true. He remained a representative of Catholicism until the end of his days.
Most of all he expressed his protest against priests who misinterpreted the concept of indulgence. Many tried to turn this religious practice into their own material profit, which especially annoyed Martin Luther. His desire was to cleanse the church of dirt.
First of all, there is a necessity to explain the difference between Catholic and Protestant Bible. Although in this case it is not entirely correct to talk about the difference, since the same sacred book is given for believers of both branches of Christianity; each confession still interprets Bible in its own way.
However, there are still slight differences, and one of them is that the Protestant Bible consists of 66 books, while the Catholic version includes 77 books. In general, differences in beliefs can be summarized in the following concepts:
In general, despite the existing contradictions and different interpretations, all branches of Christianity recognize a single deity. No matter who you are, a Catholic, or a Protestant, in any case, you carry a saving faith for humans.
At the beginning of the XXI century, there were about 800 million protestants in the world, and their number keep growing year by year.
Today, about 100 states consider protestant ideas as dominant in their country. Such a great number of adherents is caused by the long history of this confession, since the foundation of Christianity had been laid by the Roman Catholic beliefs. Furthermore, a number of churches have the state status in the various countries and are actively supported by the state; some have even achieved the status of an “official church”.
If you have ever been to a jewelry store, then you just could not help but pay attention to the large variety of goods, among which there are jewelry chains. This, in fact, is a unique accessory, as it can serve as a great complement to the necklace, or the pendant. Unarguably, such piece of jewelry could adorn the neck of any woman, of course, if you selected the right jewel. At this point, the question arises on the matter of the fitting jewelry chain types.
It may happen that a young lady would feel lost in the jewelry shop surrounded by indescribable beauty around her. If the purpose of the visit is to acquire a necklace, then it is better to get to know in general which types of necklace chains exist.
In terms of the metal from which it is produced, a problem is unlikely to arise. Usually, the choice is limited exclusively to silver or gold. However, each material has its own characteristics. If we talk about gold, then it may depend on the type of purity of gold, which indicates the amount of precious metal in its composition. That is one of the characteristics according to which types of chains differ from each other.
Despite the spread of the feminist and equality movement throughout the modern world, jewelry is still differentiating on male and female types. It is important to understand that in this case everything depends on the weaving in which the jewel is made. Particularly this feature is forming neck chain styles.
Three main weaving techniques inherent in female jewelry are traditionally distinguished, among them are:
However, it does not restrict the variety of possible executions of this jewelry. Types of gold chains depend on the weaving style and can be performed in below mentioned variants:
Gold chain styles also depend on which chain is used at the core. It can be either an integral option or a hollow one. Here you need to understand that a hollow thread looks more solid and expensive, but in fact that’s not exactly true. The weight of such jewelry is usually fewer, and, consequently, its cost is much lower as well.
Chain styles may also vary based on its length. In turn, the length affects the price of the jewel. Here are the options:
Thus, everyone has the opportunity to choose the most suitable for them necklace chain styles. The shortest option suits best a woman, who wants to attract attention. The jewelry of this length is always visible despite cleavage style of a dress or blouse. And the largest length is most suitable for men.
Well, the final step in the choice of jewelry is the different chain links. Here you have to be as careful as possible in order to make the right choice. A good lock should be comfortable and, at the same time, durable. The most reasonable option would be a round or a carbine lock.
Many people wonder how Orthodoxy and North America can be connected. In order to answer this question, you need to look back in historical events of a certain period. More precisely, we have to move to the middle of the XVIII century. This is a transitional period for the spread of religion in North America.
It began with Alaska, which was sold to the US a century later. However, looking back in the development of Orthodoxy history, it is important to mention the Reverend Herman. In spite of certain difficulties and obstacles in the local population educating, just he managed to lay the Orthodoxy foundations in Alaska. It is thanks to Herman that we can talk about all saints of North America Orthodox Church.
One of the most famous and the latter representative on the list is St. Mardarius. He was the most famous since he was canonized as one of the latter. This event happened in 2015.
His appearance in the US was dated 1917, when he was sent to serve as head of the Serbian spiritual mission.
But let’s look at the earliest representatives of the Orthodox Church in the US. One of the first ascetics was Juvenal, who was called Jacob Govorukhin over the world. What is more, he was one of those who took part in the local population baptism in Alaska.
Alexy Tovt was a bright Orthodox Church representative at the end of the 19th century. He began his ministry in Minneapolis. And he was elevated to the rank of saint in 1994.
This is not all the canonized North America saints. Take or leave it, they have made the greatest contribution to the religious development in the United States. Among other figures distinguish:
1. Holy Martyr Alexander Khotovitsky
2. Saint Tikhon of Moscow
3. Holy Martyr Basil Martysh
4. Rev. Brendan of Clonfert, Herman of Alaska
5. St. Innocent of Alaska; John of Shanghai and San Francisco and several others
Among the most revered places, the Orthodox distinguish the monastery of all saints of North America. This holy place is located in Canada in British Columbia. By the way, it was founded in 1973. Today the monastery abbot is Hagumen Lazar. Currently, there is one worship per month in Church Slavonic.
In any case, not only this place is a tourist Mecca for believers. There is another town in the United States, which is famous for its large churches and temples concentration. Of course, we are talking about Albuquerque. You’re absolutely right, the famous city where the series “Breaking Bad» episodes were shot, so that’s why it’s popularity increased. But why are religious people so eager to get there? The answer is quite simple. Some of the most favorable conditions for various religious denominations have been created here.It’s necessary to mention that all the saints of North America in Albuquerque revere one place that stands out from the rest. It means the Orthodox Church of all the saints of North America. Currently, the church’s Pastor is Nikolai Miletkov, and George Sondegaard is the priest. Factually, it was founded in 1993. Nowadays, it is the Orthodoxy center in Albuquerque. Orthodoxy has been developing in these territories since the 18th century. Who would ever have thought, but the church’s Pastors had to fight for their rights and defend their views. Fortunately, the modern picture is different, nobody stopping to be a representative of a particular denomination, due to which there is a combination of different religions in the world.
Before responding to this question, it is necessary to find out who is archangel Uriel? If we request the interpretation of the name Uriel, which comes from the Ancient Greek, then it will be translated as “God is light.” Actually, he is known just like the others in Christian culture. Recently, the archangel Uriel is often mentioned towards the esotericism.
Among the most famous facts about the archangel Uriel, mentions the following:
1. He is strict in relation to the judgments on God;
2. He serves as a creative inspiration;
3. He is considered one of the main archangels in Judaism and Christianity.
If you have seen his image earlier, then you pay attention that the archangel Uriel color is red. There is a fire in his hands, which symbolizes a jealousy attitude towards God. By the way, the interpretation of the image was not always unambiguous since he was often portrayed as both male and female.
Actually, any person who believes in God can ask him for help. However, it is important to remember that he will help somebody if the archangel is responsible for this sphere. It’s necessary to say that the archangel Uriel symbol is education. Those people who devote their lives to the science and study can ask him for help. Pupils, students, teachers can count on his help by contacting through prayer.
Firstly, he patronizes everyone who is involved in science and education. It means that pupils, students, teachers and scientists can ask Uriel for help in studying, teaching and they always be heard. In addition, he also helps creative people to find inspiration. Secondly, Uriel is considered one of the defenders of Russia.
To begin with that there is a certain hierarchy of saints in Christianity. Believers revere 7 archangels: Michael, Gabriel, Raphael, Uriel, Selaphiel, Yehudil, and Barahiel. All of them differ from each other in their purpose and occupy a certain place in the hierarchy. By the way, the strongest and most important is Mikhail. But what is the archangel Uriel number in this hierarchy? Uriel is mentioned fourth in the scriptures, taking a middle position in this hierarchy. On the one hand, he is the faith defender: God has placed him to protect the gates of paradise. On the other hand, he brings “light” and teaching to people. Moreover, he warns and protects them from different troubles and natural disasters.
Everybody knows that each Saint has its personal sigils and icon. As for the Archangel Uriel sigils, they are the sword (means protection of faith) and the flame (means education).
Despite of Christianity extends to Russia, Europe, and North America, there are no any mentions of Uriel among the all saints of North America. In most cases, representatives of Christianity in America revere their canonized priests or other saints.
Archangel Uriel silver pendant is very popular for a gift, it comes with set of 6 orthodox icon cards of Archangels, you can buy it in our store.
No wonder, religious motives, saints’ faces, angels, etc. are often used by tattoo artists to decorate the human body. Officially, Archangel Uriel tattoo is quite popular among people. Some people get tattoo with sigils, others with archangel face, or even with biblical stories.
To cut long story short, everything depends on the person’s fantasy and desire. Wonderfully, that if a person gets a tattoo with Uriel in the heart area, it speaks of a great loss and worries. It’s like the believer just asks for protection and peace in such a difficult period in his or her life.
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If the decoration does not fit the color, size, style, etc. the seller is not obliged to take it back or exchange it;
If a product was found to have a manufacturing defect, which is subsequently confirmed by an examination, it is subject to return.
The warranty period for our products is 14 days. In the event of a manufacturing defect, we will exchange the product or refund your money.
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In antiquity, the betrothal rite and the Mystery of the Wedding were separated in time. But now the engagement and the wedding take place in the same service. During the wedding, the bride and groom change their rings three times, the groom has a golden ring, and the bride has a silver one.
In a marriage consecrated by the Church, a man and a woman enter into a mysterious relationship (which is why marriage is called a Sacrament), which, according to the word of the Apostle Paul, are likened to the communion of Christ and the Church. The husband accepts the image of Christ, and the wife accepts the Church. Therefore, gold corresponds to a husband, that is, the color of the Divine Glory of Christ and the Heavenly Jerusalem, and silver to a woman as a symbol of purity, spiritual light and grace.
History knows certain periods in the history of nations, when distinctions were made between men’s, women’s, and children’s crosses. For example, such beliefs existed among some Old Believer communities in the 18th and 19th centuries. But all this must be attributed to local customs, and not to the rules of the Church.
Canonically, in the Orthodox Church there is no distinction between crosses in age and sex, since “in Christ there is no Hellen, no Jew, no man, no woman,” according to the Gospel. But since crosses are honored and produced in the most diverse forms and in iconography, no one forbids himself and his child to choose a cross, guided by personal ideas and tastes. There are no separate baptismal crosses. You can be baptized by any canonical cross.
Of all Christian denominations, only in Orthodoxy and Catholicism are crosses and icons revered. Catholics worship a cross of the same shape: a four-pointed with an extended vertical crossbar. In Orthodoxy, revered crosses are very different. Unacceptable for the Orthodox Church is not the shape of the Catholic cross, but the image of Jesus Christ on it.
Catholics depict Christ as dead, heavily sagging, sometimes with blood on the face, from wounds on the arms, legs, and ribs (stigmata). In addition, the legs are nailed by one nail. In Orthodoxy, on icons and crosses, in principle, they never and never depict just a body. The icon of the saint, in the first place, is the image of his glorification. Jesus Christ is portrayed everywhere as the almighty God, and the saints as they stand before Him in the Kingdom of Heaven. The body shell on the icons is only a symbol of the immortal image in Heaven.
Yes, we know that Christ died on the cross. But we also know that He resurrected afterwards, and that He suffered not from powerlessness, but voluntarily out of love to people: to teach us to cherish an immortal soul; so that we too can rise and live forever. In the Orthodox Crucifixion, this Easter joy is always present. Therefore, on the Orthodox cross, Christ does not die, but freely stretches his arms, as if embracing the whole of humanity. He is not a dead body, but God.
In addition, the Orthodox Byzantium kept the nails with which the Lord was nailed to the cross. And it was precisely known that there are four, not three. Therefore, on the Orthodox crosses of Christ’s feet are nailed with two nails, each separately.
Pectoral cross woocommerce-1100519-3855873.cloudwaysapps.com/shop Since ancient times it has been considered a good gift timed to a special event in a person’s life. In contrast, the usual gift – it is always the desire of God’s blessing. Even if a person already has a cross, you can give him another. Religious persons, for example, decided to give crosses, reliquaries and icons. As a gift any canonical cross can fit both men and women. If the buyer is looking for a special cross for baptism or another holiday, hurry to dissuade him: believers always wear crosses, no matter what day it is: holiday or everyday.
Buying a cross for himself, a person should be guided only by personal taste and choose what he will have for his heart. Many people like, for example, when icons of revered saints are placed on the cross, some like it, when the cross is at the same time a reliquary, to someone closer are simple and concise forms.
A good gift for friends and relatives is the small icon. This may be the image of the patron saint of a person chosen by name given in baptism, or an icon of the Mother of God. Kazan, Tikhvin and Vladimir icons are especially honored by the Orthodox. These images are addressed with a prayer for loved ones, asking for protection in their personal lives, help in business and health promotion. And of course, they are worn as protection from the action of dark forces. Many saints are the advocates and assistants of man, especially revered by the Great Martyr. George the Victorious, St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, of sv. Ksenia Blissful and others.
The pectoral cross is not a piece of jewelry. No matter how beautiful it is, from whatever precious metal it is made, it is first and foremost a visible symbol of the Christian faith.
Orthodox pectoral crosses have a very ancient tradition and therefore are very diverse in appearance, depending on the time and place of manufacture. The traditional Orthodox cross has an eight-pointed shape. Honoring the cross, love for it is manifested in the richness and diversity of its ornaments.
The body crosses have always been distinguished by their variety, both in the choice of the material from which they were made – gold, silver, copper, bronze, wood, bone, amber, – and their form.
Therefore, when choosing a cross, one should pay attention not to the metal from which the cross is made, but to whether the shape of the cross corresponds to Orthodox traditions.
The pectoral cross (in Russia it is called the “vest”) is entrusted to us in the sacrament of baptism in fulfillment of the words of the Lord Jesus Christ: “Who wants to follow me, reject yourself, and take your cross and follow me” (Mark 8, 34 ). The pectoral cross helps to endure illness and hardship, strengthens the spirit, protects from evil people and in difficult circumstances. The cross “is always for believers there is a great power that cures from all evils, especially from the evil of invisible enemies,” writes holy righteous John of Kronstadt.
During the consecration of the pectoral cross, the priest reads two special prayers in which he asks the Lord God to pour the power of Heaven into the cross and to keep this cross not only the soul, but also the body from all enemies, sorcerers, sorcerers, from all evil forces. That is why on many body crosses there is an inscription “Save and save!”.
These questions are often heard from buyers, and some of them quite categorically assert that “the correct cross is only with the Crucifixion”, or, on the contrary, that “in no case can you depict the Crucifixion on the cross,” etc.
In fact, for more than two thousand years of history, the Orthodox Church knew a variety of crosses. And with the Crucifixion, and without it, and in general without any image. Also, by the way, can be said about the form. The crosses were both four-pointed, and equilateral, and eight, and seven, and six-pointed, in the form of a quatrefoil, a quadrifolia, a circle, a swastika, a trident, anchors, monograms of Christ, etc.
For Orthodoxy, form is only a visible expression of content. And the symbolic content of the pectoral cross is a four-part world, all ends of the earth and sky, united in God. The image of God is most often represented by Christ Himself, it does not matter – Crucifixion, or an icon, the main thing – not dead, but alive (see. The difference between the Orthodox cross from the Catholic). But it can also be through a symbol: a cross, a circle, a trefoil, the Tree of Life, letters.
Today, in jewelry stores, churches, monasteries and Orthodox shops, there are a variety of wearable crosses that are offered for purchase by Orthodox believers. The church does not prohibit such a variety of forms. You can find simple four-pointed crosses, there is a complicated symbolic form, complemented by images of saints, and they are made in the form of reliquaries, that is, miniature boxes with tightly closed doors. All these forms have their long history of development in church art.
In addition to the crosses, the jewelry industry produces a wide variety of pendants in the form of small breast icons, or, as they are called, small figurines. They depict the glorified miracles of the icon of Christ, the Mother of God and the revered saints. The tradition of wearing miniature icons on the chest was developed in Byzantium in ancient times. Originally, the images were cut from stone and resembled antique cameos. The enamel and relief cast images were placed only on the covers of reliquaries. But already in the 10th century, the first pendants appeared with images of saints, cast of precious metals and decorated with sculptural reliefs, enamels and stones. Then the first cast icons of the Blessed Virgin Mary began to be made in Russia.
Now the scapulars are sometimes called “amulet”. This is not entirely true. Initially, special bags with frankincense or any shrine were worn with the cross on the neck. Later, thanks to the belief in the special effect of incense on an evil spirit (“runs like the devil from incense”), so began to call amulets from “evil eye” and “damage”. But the icon can not be an amulet. This is a superstition alien to the Orthodox tradition. Orthodox people believe that it is not the icon itself as an object that possesses effective force in the icon, but the saint who is depicted on it.
More and more often in the shops you can also see beautiful security rings. This is not a fad. Such products have a very ancient history, dating back to the first centuries of Christianity. Quite a few guard rings made in Byzantium survived. They depict saints, inscribed special protective prayers, sometimes with mention of the name of the owner.
Since ancient times, guard rings have been used to protect against evil forces. They protected themselves, and also used to seal the most valuable and expensive things. It was such rings in antiquity that they got engaged and married, as if calling the saints depicted on them, to witness the purity of the love of spouses and to the guardians of their marriage. Later, wedding rings began to appear with special inscriptions, but the tradition of getting married with rings depicting saints never disappeared.
From ancient times, the ring itself was perceived as a protective symbol because of its shape – a closed endless enclosure. The rings were worn on the most vulnerable places: on the lower back (belt), on the fingers (rings), on the wrists (bracelets), on the temples (temporal rings, woven into the hair). If the Orthodox jewelry industry has mastered the rings for a long time, then bracelets with prayers have appeared only recently. On the inside or outside of such “security” bracelets are placed the protective prayers: “Live in help,” “God rise,” and “Jesus prayer,” which believers from time immemorial were worn to protect them from demonic attacks.
Crosses, reliquaries, images and guard rings have always been not only religious symbols, but also exquisite jewelry. However, in the XX century in Russia, this tradition was lost. Now there is a clear trend towards the return of the ancient attitude to religious jewelry, the revival of the aesthetics of piety.
Gold-plated silver is 925 silver of the sample (an alloy containing 92,5% pure silver and 7,5% copper or other metals), which is coated with gold. Before cleaning gold-plated silver, remember that no abrasives, even the softest, can be used.
First of all, to protect jewelry from contamination and damage, they should be removed during homework, as well as when using cosmetic products: bleaching creams, soaps, perfumes, acetone.
Do not store silver in boxes made of cardboard, as the packaging is also capable of emitting, for example, sulfur, which adversely affects silver.
In order for the gilded silver to remain for a long time as new, the products must be carefully looked after. Cleaning should be carried out at regular intervals, not allowing products to be covered with green or gray bloom.
Instead of alcohol for cleaning gilded silver, you can use table vinegar. Apply vinegar in two ways. The first is to dilute 2 tablespoons of 8% vinegar in one liter of water, place the product in the solution for 15 minutes, rinse with running water, wipe with chamois. The second way is to dilute two tablespoons of 8% vinegar in a glass of water, moisten a sponge, wipe the products, wipe dry and clean with suede.
Wine spirit copes well with the darkening on gold-plated silver and is also perfectly safe for gilding. Moisten a cotton pad, wipe the product, process the suede cloth to shine.
Completely green objects can be cleaned with a soap solution with the addition of a few drops of ammonia. On a liter of warm water 1, add a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid and 1 liquid ammonia to 6. Soak items for 30 minutes, rinse with running water, dry, rub to a shine with a soft cloth.
Gold-plated silver is corrosion resistant and combines the lightness and low price of silver with a high-quality gold plating and its incomparable brilliance.
Silver is quite rare in the earth’s crust and belongs to the group of rare precious and noble metals. Gold and platinum also belong to this group.
Pure silver is very soft, malleable and ductile metal. According to the ability to change shape under the influence of the load
when silver is destroyed, it surpasses gold and thanks to this quality it is widely used for making jewelry. The greatest value in everyday life is the extreme sensitivity of silver to the effects of hydrogen sulfide. Usually, sulfur compounds are the cause of the darkening of silver products. There are many sources of hydrogen sulfide around us, from food to construction materials to which silver reacts.
From historical times to our time, the tradition to wear all kinds of jewelry on the face and body has been preserved. From the very beginning, it was perceived as special charms that are able to protect us from all sorts of evil, including the atrocities of the devil among the Orthodox.
The very first decoration that a child receives when he takes the side of the Orthodox Church is a cross on his neck, as a symbol of baptism and attitude towards the Orthodox Church. This is the very first gift to us from our parents. Now he will protect us from evil throughout our lives.
In ancient times, only rich and noble people could afford jewelry, as the work of a jeweler was valued very expensive, and the metal itself is important. Since that time, little has changed, jewelers are also valued, and precious metals are becoming more and more expensive every year, but this does not make Orthodox jewelry less popular. Every self-respecting parent is obliged to donate a treasured cross for the baptism of his son or daughter.
In ancient times and at the time of the baptism of Russia, it was fashionable to wear things of a religious nature. These must be things of really precious metals, and in addition to this, they are also consecrated in the church building. It could be gold pendants in the form of Easter eggs or the icon of the Mother of God. It is believed that these decorations were not only fashionable squeaks, but also a kind of talisman from diseases and bad weather. Only rich people could afford such a decoration.
Another excellent decoration was considered to be precious rings of a religious nature. Usually such jewelry was made of silver and gold with a lot of precious stones. It was from those times to the present day that the fashion for Orthodox jewelry came to be. Now the art of jewelers is observing its peak of development and therefore all types of jewelery are at a level better in quality as compared to historical ones.
If you like to buy such a religious decoration, you should contact the store. www.woocommerce-1100519-3855873.cloudwaysapps.com.
Here you can find really beautiful Orthodox jewelery at a reasonable price and with decent quality. With such decorations, nothing threatens you. The catalog is lined with jewelry made of gold and silver for men and women. Here you can find rings, pendants, earrings, worn crosses and bracelets for every taste.
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