Online Library: Recommended Readings
Below are recommended Orthodox Christian books. If you wish to purchase a book, just click on the link and it will lead you to the online store. As Orthodox Christians, we should be supporting our local Orthodox Christian bookstores and monasteries. Many monasteries are suffering due to storms and the pandemic and purchasing books from their online bookstores helps their financial needs; every little bit helps. (At all costs, we should refrain from purchasing Orthodox books from Amazon and the like)
Recommended Books for Great Lent and Throughout the Liturgical Year
The Orthodox Study Bible: New Testament & Psalms (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore at a discounted price)
https://dormitionmonasterygiftshop.squarespace.com/other-publishers-books/
A Bible that offers Bible study aids written from the Orthodox perspective with footnotes and articles on topics relevant to the passages.
For the Life of the World (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore by 3/13/22 at a discounted price)
Protopresbyter Alexander Schmemann
https://stmpress.com/products/for-the-life-of-the-world-hardcover?_pos=1&_sid=adf961466&_ss=R
Beloved author, Fr. Alexander Schmemann explains in this classic how the Orthodox approach to the world stems from the liturgical life of the church.
The Lenten Spring (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore by 3/13/22 at a discounted price)
by Fr. Thomas Hopko
https://svspress.com/search.php?search_query=the+lenten+spring
All Christians who undertake the yearly journey to the blessed Pascha of our Lord will find inspiration and guidance in these meditations. All can enjoy reading and rereading them and share in the profound thoughts of the author as they make their own spiritual way through this holy season.
Great Lent: Journey to Pascha
by Protopresbyter Alexander Schmemann
https://svspress.com/search.php?search_query=Great+lent
This revised edition of Father Alexander Shmemann's Lenten classic examines the meaning of the Liturgy of the Presancfied Gifts, the Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian, the Canon of St. Andrew of Crete and other neglected or misunderstood treasures of Lenten Worship. Schmemann draws on the Church's sacramental and liturgical tradition to suggest the meaning of "Lent in our life".
Food, Faith and Fasting
by Rita Madden
https://svspress.com/food-faith-and-fasting/
Orthodox Christians fast approximately half the days of the year. But in our food obsessed society, how do we determine our approach to eating in general? Nutritional expert Rita Madden expands on her popular podcast to help us eat, exercise, and manage stress in a way that is healthful for both our bodies and our souls in times of fasting, feasting, and the ordinary days in between.
First Fruits of Prayer: A Forty-Day Journey Through the Canon of St. Andrew
Frederica Mathewes-Green
https://svspress.com/search.php?search_query=first+fruits+of+prayer
Join Frederica Mathewes-Green on a guided retreat through the classic Great Canon, a poetic hymn written in the eighth century and still chanted by Orthodox Christians during Lent.
Season of Repentance: Lenten Homilies of Saint John of Kronstadt
Ivan Ilyich Sergiev (St. John of Kronstadt)
https://store.ancientfaith.com/season-of-repentance-lenten-homilies-of-st-john-of-kronstadt/
Each year, we begin anew the journey to the radiant feast of Pascha, entering the season of repentance known as Great Lent. The homilies presented in this modest volume, from St. John of Kronstadt, one of the spiritual giants of the Orthodox Church of Russia, can both encourage and inform us in this struggle of the fast.
Repentance and Confession
Saint Nektarios the Wonderworker and Bishop of Pentapolis
https://www.holycross.org/collections/books-media/products/repentance-and-confession
Repentance and Confession is the first of Saint Nektarios' works to be translated into English. It behooves every Orthodox Christian who is concerned about the salvation of his soul to read this theologically rich, yet concise and understandable study on a much-neglected commandment of God.
Saint Nektarios: The Saint of our Century (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore by 3/13/22 at a discounted price)
by Sotos Chondropoulos
https://store.ancientfaith.com/saint-nektarios-the-saint-of-our-century
St. Nektarios was born in Silivria of Thrace in October 1, 1846 and gave up his soul to the Lord on November 8, 1920 at an Athens hospital. His baptismal name was Anastasios; the name Nektarios was given to him when he was ordained a deacon. in 1886, after the completion of his studies, he returned to Alexandria of Egypt where he was ordained Archpriest of the Metropolis of Pentapolis. His philanthropic deeds, the love of his flock and his saintly manners that began to manifest themselves gave rise to jealousy and slander. As a result, he was treated with distrust while new tribulations, sorrows, and afflictions started to invade his life. However, nothing could extinguish the fire that his burning heart had for love towards Jesus Christ and towards his fellow men. During the last years of his life, he established the convent in Aegina, where he was also entombed. Thus, his exemplary life left an unfading mark in the twentieth century; that of humility, perseverance, wise silence, and hope. In other words, the mark of saintliness.
The Great Canon: The Work of St. Andrew of Crete
This is the classic canon of repentance, chanted in parts over the first four days of the Lenten Fast and in its entirety on Thursday of the fifth week. The full text of the life of our Holy Mother Mary of Egypt is also given, as read liturgically during Matins on the Thursday of the fifth week.
On Prayer
Archimandrite Sophrony
A collection of articles on prayer and the spiritual life, together with the author's own prayers. It is a moving testimony to the relevance of Christ, who is "All, and in all, the beginning and the ending" of all things.
The Sunflower: Conforming the Will of Man to the Will of God
St. John of Tobolsk (Maximovitch)
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-sunflower-conforming-the-will-of-man-to-the-will-of-god/
In this practical book, the author addresses the fundamental questions: Why should we care about God's will? What are the benefits of following His will? How are we to avoid common obstacles to living in accordance with His will? The reader will find practical and eternal wisdom running through these writings that discuss the perennial questions of why a good God permits evil
The Scent of Holiness: Lessons from a Women's Monastery
Constantina R. Palmer
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-scent-of-holiness-lessons-from-a-womens-monastery/
In The Scent of Holiness, Constatina Palmer offers the reader a firsthand account of her contact with and immersion in the life of Orthodox monasticism. The major features of Orthodoxy are humilty and love. In our troubled world, Constantina's writings show us that these virtues and others still exist; the many monks and nuns who have dedicated their lives to prayer and ascetic endeavor keep them alive.
The Sweetness of Grace: Stories of Christian Trial and Victory
Constantina R. Palmer
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-sweetness-of-grace/
From the author of The Scent of Holiness, The Sweetness of Grace is a collection of stories derived from conversations with Orthodox nuns, monks, and laypeople, along with experiences of Orthodox life in South Korea, Greece, and North America. These stories of faith, courage, struggle, and everday miracles will inspire and delight you.
Wounded By Love: The Life and Wisdom of Saint Porphyrios
Edited by the Sisters of the Holy Convent of Chrysopigi
https://store.ancientfaith.com/products/Wounded-by-Love.html
Saint Porphyrios, a Greek monk and priest who died in 1991, was formally glorified as a saint by the Holy Synod of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in November 2013. He stands in the long tradition of charismatic spiritual guides in the Eastern Church which continues form the apostolic age down to figures such as Saint Seraphim of Sarov and Staretz Silouan in modern times. In the book he tells the story of his life and, in simple, deeply reflected and profoundly wise words, he expounds the Christian faith for today.
Church History and Books for Catechumens and those interested in learning more about the Orthodox Faith
The Orthodox Church (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore for a discounted price by 3/13/22)
by Metropolitan Kallistos (Ware) of Diokleia
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-orthodox-church-ware
A clear, detailed introduction to the Orthodox Church, written for the non-Orthodox as well as for Orthodox Christians who wish to know more about their tradition.
The Orthodox Way (Available now in the St. Mark Bookstore for a discounted Price)
By Metropolitan Kallistos (Ware) of Diokleia
https://stmpress.com/products/the-orthodox-way-revised-edition?_pos=1&_sid=6a1fe9de7&ss=r
A classic account of the belief, worship, and life of the Orthodox Church. This is a book which reveals the meaning of life for all Christians.
The Faith We Hold
By Archbishop Paul of Finland
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-faith-we-hold/
Describes the basic elements of the Orthodox Faith in three sections: doctrinal, liturgical, and spiritual
Orthodox Christians in North American: 1794-1994
by Mark Stokoe and the Archpriest Leonid Kishkovsky
A historical look at the establishment of Orthodoxy on the North American Continent, celebrating the 200th Anniversary.
Historical Road of Eastern Orthodoxy (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore by 3/13/22 at a discounted price)
by Protopresbyter Alexander Schmemann
https://stmpress.com/products/the-historical-road-of-eastern-orthodoxy?_pos=1&_sid=79c42f480&_ss=r
A stimulating survey and interpretation of the history of the Orthodox Church.
The Orthodox Church: 455 Questions and Answers
by Fr. Stanley Harakas
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-orthodox-church-455-questions-and-answers/
Questions by real people sent in to the Hellenic Chronicle newspaper and answered by Fr. Stanley Harakas, a well-known Orthodox ethicist and teacher. Questions range from the spiritual to the mundane.
The Living God: A Catechism for the Christian Faith
Translated by Olga Dunlop
https://store.ancientfaith.com/living-god-a-catechism-for-the-christian-faith-2-volume-set/
For parents, teachers, pastors, and all who wish to understand the sources of the Church's revelation. A "seeker" poses questions and a "sage" answers them, representing the Church's explanation of those questions.
Orthodox Spirituality: A Brief Introduction
by Metropolitan of Nafpaktos, Hierotheos (Vlachos)
https://store.ancientfaith.com/orthodox-spirituality-met-hierotheos-vlachos/
Metropolitan Heirotheos contends that Orthodox spirituality differs markedly from the "spiritualities" of the East and the West. The difference in the dogma generates the difference in ethos as well.
The Incarnate God: The Feasts of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary
Edited by Catherine Aslanoff
https://stmpress.com/products/the-incarnate-god-two-volumes?_pos=1&_side=3433eb77&_ss=r
This book ddraws on the rich resources of the Orthodox tradition to present a holistic vision of the faith derived from the Church's liturgical year.
Children's Books for Young Readers and Teenagers
The Miracle of the Red Egg (Available in the St. Mark Bookstore by 3/13/22 at a discounted price)
Elizabeth Crispina Johnson
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-miracle-of-the-red-egg/
At Pascha, Orthodox all over the world dye and bless red eggs. Here is the story of how this tradition started, way back in apostolic times, with St. Mary Magdalene and a blessed miracle that dazzled the unbelieving Roman emperor with the reality and power of Christ's Resurrection.
Hear Me: A Prayer Book for Orthodox Young Adults
by Annalisa Boyd
https://store.ancientfaith.com/hear-me-a-prayer-book-for-orthodox-young-adults/
The mission of Hear Me, the best-selling prayerbook for Orthodox teens and young adults, is to inspire young people to pray, to challenge them in their walk in Christ, to offer encouragement, to assist in answering difficult questions, and ultimately to help guide them toward theosis. The prayerbook is a trim, handsome volume designed to fit busy lifestyles, easy to carry or to slip into a pocket, purse or backpack.
Letters to Saint Lydia
by Melinda Johnson
https://store.ancientfaith.com/letters-to-saint-lydia/
Lydia's life is turning upside down. Her family has converted to Orthodox Christianity without her, she's just about to leave home for college, and soon she'll be facing all the trials and temptations encountered by every young adult who's on her own for the first time. Lydia needs a friend badly, and she finds one in the most unexpected place.
Sam & Saucer 3-book set: Shepherding Sam, The Barn and the Book, Painting Angels
by Melinda Johnson
Sam's Aunt Eva says he's like a tornado, he causes a ruckus everywhere he goes. But Aunt Eva won't give up on Sam, and neither will Saucer, the monastery's corgi puppy. Saucer lives at the monastery, but he dreams of herding sheep. With no sheep in his life, Saucer tries to herd everyone else, farm animals, nuns, and especially Sam. Sam doesn't want to follow anyone, not even a funny puppy. But Saucer knows that if he just keeps trying, he can bring this lonely boy back to the flock.
Spyridons Shoes
by Christine Rogers
https://store.ancientfaith.com/spyridons-shoes/
Young Spyros spends his days fishing, octopus hunting and dreaming of attending school like his best friend, Niko. When he encounters an elderly man on the beach after an accident, his whole life begins to shift and change. But who is this mysterious, saintly man, and why is his friendship so important? Take a short trip back in time to the Greek Island of Corfu and discover the real reason for the mystery surrounding Spyridon's shoes.
The Lion and the Saint
Laura E. Wolfe
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-lion-and-the-saint/
This small gem of a story shows us this extraordinary friendship through the eyes of the lion, and of a baboon he befriends along the way, allowing us to participate in the lion's transformation, through contact with holiness, from an undifferentiated dumb beast to a particular lion with his own name and destiny.
Keeper of the Light: St. Macrina the Elder, Grandmother of Saints
Bev Cooke
The road to sainthood takes a lifetime to travel, in the fourth century, Christians are labeled enemies of the Roman Empire, hounded, arrested, tortured, and executed. Macrina and her husband Basil, once wealthy Christians, flee with their small son to the mountainous forests south of the Black Sea. There, Macrina embarks on a seven-year journey of unexpected tests and trials that will take her through a harsh and hungry wilderness pilgrimage, only to plunge her into poverty and danger on the streets of Neocaesarea. So begins Macrina's adventure in faith, as she undertakes the process of becoming one of the most influential women in sacred history, the mother and grandmother of saints.
Royal Monastic, Princess Ileana of Romania: The Story of Mother Alexandra
Bev. Cooke
https://store.ancientfaith.com/royal-monastic-princess-ileana-of-romania/
The life of a princess is not all glamour, handsome princes, and beautiful clothes. It is also devotion to duty, sacrifice for your people, and a lot of just plain hard work. And if your country happens to suffer two world wars and a communist takeover in your lifetime, it means danger and suffering, exile and heartache as well. Princess Ileana of Romania endured all this and more. But her deeply rooted Orthodox faith saw her through it all, and eventually led her in her later years to the peaceful repose of monasticism. But that life included sacrifice and hard work as well, because as Mother Alexandra she was called to build the first English-language Orthodox women's monastery in the US: the Monastery of the Transfiguration in Ellwood City, Pennsylvania. Princess Ileana's story is a thrilling tale of love and loss, danger and rescue, sacrifice and reward. Her inspiring life stands as a beacon of faith and holiness for young women of all times and nations to follow.
The Woman and the Wheat
Jane G. Meyer
https://store.ancientfaith.com/the-woman-and-the-wheat/
"There once was a woman who planted some wheat..." So begins this rhythmical, festive children's book about the joy of a farmer as she works to grow the wheat and bake the bread that she will offer back to her Creator in Eucharistic celebration. The vibrant images - reminiscent of fields in the American mid-west - sparkle in light-saturated, warm jewel-tones and provide the perfect backdrop for the story of a woman in love with the earth, and her labor, and equally in love with her God.
Toddler & Preschool Reading List
Saint Ia Rides a Leaf
Melinda Johnson
https://svspress.com/saint-ia-rides-a-leaf-board-book/
Saint Ia Rides a Leaf is a charming story from the life of Saint Ia, an Irish missionary to England in the fifth and sixth century. The town and parish of St. Ives in Cornwall, England, are named after her, and she is commemorated on February 3 in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Join Saint Ia and her animal friends on an adventure to spread the Gospel!
Everything Tells Us About God
Katherine Bolger Hyde
https://svspress.com/everything-tells-us-about-god/
Inspired by a story told by Fr. Thomas Hopko: the world is like a giant puzzle God made that teaches us about Himself. Every piece - earth, sea, and sky, plants, animals, and people - reveals something about who He is and why we're here. Everything Tells Us About God will help children recognize the beautiful and sometimes mysterious pieces of this puzzle for themselves.
The Adventures of a Little Ringtail
St. Anthony's Monastery
https://svspress.com/the-adventures-of-a-little-ringtail/
This volume contains three books from the ringtail series: Part 1 - The Drought - the little Ringtail and the starving animals and insects traverse the desert to visit an ascetic, the Praying Mantis, and pray with him for rain. Part II - An Amazing Pilgrimage. The Ringtail and the praying Mantis cross the cactus forest and float in a canoe during a monsoon as they go on a pilgramage to a monastery. Part III - Life in the Shed - Together, the Praying Mantis and the Ringtail do good deeds for both their friends and their enemies.
Paraclete Pre-K Bible
Editors at Paraclete Press
https://store.ancientfaith.com/paraclete-pre-k-bible/
A children's bible specifically for Pre-K kids! With wonderful storytelling and colorful illustrations, The Paraclete Pre-K Bible will capture your little one's heart. Help your pre-K reader learn the most important stories in the Bible from both the Old and New Testaments with this sturdy, beautiful book.
