A Dream to Restore Agrarian & Traditional Orthodox Christian Culture
We are looking for an Orthodox family that wants to be part of a growing, agrarian Orthodox community. Our family has recently acquired a beautiful country farm home on 30 acres of lush pastures and a well-set up farm, available for rent now. Learn more here.
Continue reading “Farm Home for Rent Available in Orthodox Agrarian Community”
Reflections on Prayer
“One must force himself to Prayer when he has not Spiritual Prayer;
and thus God, beholding him thus striving and compelling himself by
force, in spite of an unwilling heart, gives him the true Prayer of the
Spirit.” ~ Saint Macarius the Great
Reflections on Prayer
“He who loves the Lord is ever mindful of Him, and the thought of God begets
prayer. If you are forgetful of the Lord, you will not pray, and without prayer the
soul will not dwell in the love of God, for the grace of the Holy Spirit comes
through prayer.” ~ St. Silouan
When was the Schism between Eastern and Western Christianity? St. Nectarios of Aegina rejected the date 1054, insisting: “no Ecumenical Council had been convened, nor a major Synod, nor was the Pope excommunicated, nor was it confirmed that all the Patriarchs had agreed.” He proposed the year 1449. It most certainly was not at 1054. The following article was written by Seraphim Popov:
Continue reading “When Was the Schism?”
Reflections on Prayer
“Prayer is the place of refuge for every worry, a foundation for
cheerfulness, a source of constant happiness, a protection against
sadness.” – St John of Chrysostom
“A servant of the Lord is he who in body stands before men, but in
mind knocks at heaven with prayer.” – St John Climacus
Spend your summer in a place of quiet, peace, and prayer.
We are looking for a temporary farm hand to help tend to our livestock, weed, clear brush, learn animal husbandry and help us build our dream of an agrarian Orthodox community in Northern Texas. No farm experience is needed — just willingness to work hard. This is an unpaid position. We can provide a free place to stay in one of our tiny homes, regular warm meals, and a great community experience. A farm hand needs to be 18+ years old and have a blessing from a priest. Let us know if you are interested or have questions.
There are also tiny homes available for long-term staying. People who live on the farm for an extended time are required to work 10 hours per week and pay a small rent. We know a lot of people in town and can find you paying work in the local community.
Reach out if you have any questions!
Author: Seraphim Popov
“If anyone does not accept representation in art of evangelical scenes, let him be anathema.” ~ Ecumenical Council VII
Continue reading “Are Icons of the Holy Family Licit?”
Reflections on Prayer
“If you do not feel like praying, you have to force yourself. The Holy
Fathers say that prayer with force is higher than prayer unforced. You
do not want to, but force yourself. The Kingdom of Heaven is taken
by force.” ~ St. Ambrose of Optina (+1891)
Ave Maria Farm Retreat
Spiritual Retreat and Community Garden Planting
March 9-14
We are gearing up for our third Spring Retreat and Community Garden Planting at the Ave Maria Farm. If you are interested in attending please reach out by email: Father Kavanaugh@gmail.com
This will be an opportunity for prayer, fellowship, and hard work as we plant our community garden — putting St. Benedict’s philosophy to practice: Ora et Labora! Please feel welcome to participate in whatever manner you are comfortable and reach out if you have questions. Here is the itinerary and a few matters to help you prepare and have a great time.
Continue reading “Spiritual Retreat at the Ave Maria Farm”