The Holy Silence of a Monastery

by Sophia, SEM Intern

‘We have one sword–the Jesus Prayer.’ (St. Barsanuphius of Optina) Spending a month at one of Elder Ephraim’s women’s monastery, I saw St. Barsanuphius’ quote taken quite seriously. In the busy bakery, amidst the whirring of baking and cooking machinery; in the cafe, serving curious tourists and eager customers; walking up to their cells on a sunny afternoon: these valiant warriors of Christ always were wielding this sword. Sometimes I would hear a nun before seeing her. Yes, they would murmur it under their breath, sometimes saying it out loud, “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.” Gerondissa Makrina, the “grandmother” of the monastery, encourages her nuns to say the Prayer out loud, so that any sister whose mind had wandered off would remember to resume the Prayer when she hears her sister saying it. 

A monastic spends the whole day in prayer. Visiting the monastery for such a lengthy time, I got to experience almost their whole schedule and–I have to admit– it was hard. I didn’t have to wake up at one in the morning to do my short rule, but I did go to the two am Paraklesis services that were held four days a week, and the four-thirty am liturgy on Thursdays. The services were beautiful with the simple, sweet nuns’ chanting, but it was very hard not letting my heavy eyelids close for a bit. I will tell the truth and say that I have fallen asleep more than once during services, but my guardian angel always nudged me awake whenever a sister passed by to cense with the incense burner. 

For Dormition, during my stay, a long vigil was held in honor of the Panagia’s special feast. It was beautiful–and lengthy. Vespers, orthros with lamentations, and liturgy. It started at eight the evening before, and ended at three in the morning. The chanting, the polycandelon swaying from side to side during specific moments, representing the angels, and the prayerful atmosphere of the packed church made the service seem to fly by. It was such a blessing to be there. 

During the normal week days, everyone kept busy. There was the cafe/bookstore to run, food orders to be made, bakery sweets and spanakopitas to be baked, the meals to be cooked, flowers to be watered–to name a few. The list could go on and on and on. And no matter what they were doing, the sisters always kept the prayer-filled atmosphere. Because of that, everyone was at peace despite the evil one’s attacks. 

My trip was such a wonderful blessing, and I strongly encourage everyone– but especially, young adults– to experience not only a pilgrim's point of view, but to be invested and part of the monastery for a little while. I’ve been told many times that the monastic life can be tried out, unlike marriage. So, if you are able to visit, do it!

 Glory be to God for all things!!

Building Your Resume as a Homeschooler

by Cecilia, SEM intern

When I first started homeschooling, I was frustrated that I didn’t have access to as many service and leadership opportunities as public-schoolers. I felt that my resume was lacking compared to theirs; the clubs, service opportunities, and honor societies which public schools offered seemed to be impossible to be part of as a homeschooler. However, I have come to find that within my church, diocese, and community, there are a myriad of truly rewarding opportunities in which to serve and lead. My resume is now jam-packed with lists of activities and initiatives I have undertaken. If you’re struggling to build up your resume, I hope these ideas will help you:

See what activities your diocese (or other dioceses!) have to offer.

I am part of the Antiochian Archdiocese, and I have found many programs in which to participate and demonstrate leadership. Take a look at Teen SOYO’s website, or your diocese’s equivalent. Here are some programs that I know of:

• Teen SOYO/GOYA board (often offered on a national, diocese, and parish level)

• Bible Bowl

• Oratorical Festival

• Creative Arts Festival

• Special Olympics Pennsylvania

• SOYO Day of Service

• TRUST Project

• Sacred Music Institute - Youth Music Ministries

• Orthodox Summer Camps (to be camper or counselor)

• CrossRoad Institute

• Lampstand Institute (ages 18+)

• Iconography workshops

• Saint Emmelia Ministries interning

While you should capitalize on opportunities offered around you, it is also important to be creative in starting things up yourself!

If you see a need in your parish, do something about it! Chances are, your priest will give you a blessing to start up a club or service initiative of some sort. Here are some questions to consider: Are the girls in your parish finding opportunities to serve? If not, start a handmaiden/myrrhbearers group! Is your church in need of a weekly cleaning schedule? Would a Bible Study be helpful? Would a book or sports club bring people together? Could you have a babysitting fundraiser or homeschool book sale to benefit the parish/another cause? Does your church have a meal train for new mothers or sick parishioners? Does your church have an official teen/youth group?

Look around at the needs of your parish and see how you can help. This is great leadership. On your resume, you may want to include keywords such as “coordinator,” “initiator,” “leader,” “teen representative,” etc.

Here are some more ideas:

• Join the choir.

• Serve in the altar.

• Host a fellowship hour with your friends or organize a clean-up schedule.

• Make prosphora/artos (and organize a baking schedule, if there is not already one).

• Organize a team to decorate the church for feasts (cloth changing, flower arranging). Ask your priest if there are any specific needs!

• Lead a workshop for the parish or specifically for younger children (on prayer roping, baking prosphora, sewing, etc.).

• Sit down with people at coffee hour whom you normally do not talk to and you will be surprised how many opportunities will arise! Just be open!

Work in your community.

• Look into YMCA/community programs.

• Volunteer at a local library or at any events they offer.

• Get a part-time job!

• Volunteer at a women’s clinic.

• It doesn’t ever hurt to ask if a specific organization/company would be able to accept you as a volunteer or hired worker. People are more open than you may think! It never hurts to ask.

• See what service activities your friends are participating in.

Pick up a hobby!

Hobbies show that you are a well-rounded person, which a lot of colleges like to see. You need to show that you are doing things outside of academics.

• Learn or further develop a foreign language.

• Start a small shop of homemade items.

• Take vocal or instrumental lessons.

• Take advantage of YouTube as a resource to start learning something new (instruments, cooking, ASL, crafts, etc.)

• Start a YouTube Channel or online portfolio.

• Pick up photography or videography.

Make activities fit your resume.

Remember that the purpose of a resume is to demonstrate your achievements, not just activities that you took part in. For example, instead of saying something like:

St. Philip Orthodox Church – Volunteer

• Maintained candles for services

Antiochian Archdiocese Oratorical Festival – Competitor

• Gave a speech on Romans 1:1

You should emphasize the outcome of your work:

St. Philip Orthodox Church – Volunteer

• Beautified the parish by cleaning the candle stands and stocking candles

Antiochian Archdiocese Oratorical Festival – Competitor

• Researched, wrote, and delivered a speech on Romans 1:1 to a panel of [x] judges and audience, honing skills in public speaking

Thinking about your activities and involvement this way allows you to convey to potential supervisors how and why these activities have prepared you to be a good candidate for the position you’re applying to.

Often, it’s a good idea to include a section for interests. You’d be surprised how potential supervisors might find ways to apply your hobbies to the position you’re applying for! Noting how long you’ve been involved in that hobby shows your dedication, while listing your level of involvement (e.g., “self-taught” or “competitive,” etc.) will speak to your drive. You can avoid taking valuable space away from job and volunteer experience by putting your interests section in a sidebar or as a single line (instead of a bulleted list) at the end of your document.

—

It can be tough to undertake something new. It takes courage to reach out to people around you, and resilience to learn from some of the inevitable failures you’ll experience. Ask God continually for help and guidance: ask Him to work through your hands, to move your feet to service, and to show how you can serve with the unique set of talents He has given you. God bless you! (And remember to do all for the glory of His name, not only to make your resume impressive!)

Being Christian in Difficult Environments

by Caroline, SEM Intern

“So in every test, let us say, ‘Thank you, my God, because this was needed for my salvation.’” -St. Paisios the Athonite

In elementary and middle school I attended private Catholic and public school. I was the only practicing Orthodox Christian besides my brother at both schools. At times, it was quite difficult being the only one who wasn’t either a Catholic, Protestant, or atheist. There were many times that I was asked to explain things, such as icons and certain Saints, to a crowd who wasn’t interested in learning.

My time at the public school was a challenging time for my faith. There were a few moments that confronted my beliefs. I vividly remember having a substitute teacher one day for my computer science class in eighth grade. We didn’t have a substantial assignment so there was more free time to catch up on other homework and talk. Out of twentyish kids in my class, there were about four to five practicing and believing Christians. One classmate, who was a firm atheist, loved to debate. She began to talk about how she didn’t believe in God and that Jesus was not the Son of God. A few other students joined in, and it became a heated discussion. Rather than calm down the conversation, the teacher encouraged it and subtly agreed with my classmates. I remember being completely silent and uncomfortable. The other Christians in the classroom were also silent and unsure of what to say.

On my first day in eighth grade, I was quite lonely. While no one was mean to me, I didn’t make many friends. One group of kids noticed and invited me to sit with them. The first thing they asked me was “Are you a Christian?” While I answered yes, I felt like I had to justify why. There was a Catholic church right beside the lunch hall, and as we walked to class, they began to make fun of the church. Rather than calling them out, I laughed along with them. I compromised my beliefs in order to please people. It’s very easy to say that you wouldn’t do that until you’re in a difficult situation. Standing up to my classmates and friends who made fun of Christianity would have jeopardized those friendships. In retrospect, it may seem like that wouldn’t have been a huge deal, but it was a really huge worry for me in middle school. I desperately wanted someone to like me, and I based my worth around how many friends I had.

So, how do we respond to situations like these in a Christian-like manner? I think the book of Titus offers wonderful guidance: “Likewise, exhort the young men to be sober-minded, in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned, that one who is an opponent may be ashamed, having nothing evil to say of you” (Titus 2:6-8). Mark 13:11 also reminds us that we should not worry beforehand about what we should say. “ But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand, or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.”

We need to speak with humility and gentleness to our “opponents.” You might possibly be one of their first encounters with a Christian. Unkind speech can make someone not want to step foot in a church. We should strive to speak in a way that cannot be condemned or spoken ill of. It is crucial to not talk poorly about others. I always try to remember that the other party is still someone created in the image and likeness of God. It’s very important to humanize them and extend grace. Just because someone treats us unfavorably doesn’t mean we should do the same. How would we be different if we sneered back at them? Everybody’s situation is different, and you never know what they may be going through.

It is key to determine if the other party genuinely wants to understand your point or simply wants to argue with you. Typically, if they are just interested in being right, it’s not fruitful to debate with them. Some people do not deserve nor need an explanation from you. As St. Paul states in Titus 3:9, “But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law, for they are unprofitable and useless.” We should find an appropriate time to speak while being wise and careful about our words. It is also crucial to ensure that we are not motivated by the desire to “be right.” If we want to speak out of hatred or anger for the other party, perhaps it is not the right time to engage.

It is also important to weigh whether speaking up would ruin your relationship with the other person. I find that most true friends would not be angry with you for disagreeing with them. If you are truly afraid of losing them, maybe it’s time to reflect on your relationship with them. You’re not going to lose a real friend; rather you’ll lose someone who wants others to reaffirm their opinions and beliefs. Everyone is at a different place, and it’s okay to walk away from someone who drags you down. We can love and pray for others from a distance. I often remind myself that we are who we surround ourselves with.

We should use these difficult times to grow in virtue. As St. Theophan the Recluse says in Unseen Warfare, “If you wish always to press forward on the path of virtue without stopping, you should pay great attention to things, which may serve as chances for acquiring virtue, and never let them slip out of your hands.” God allows us to be put in these situations as opportunities for us to grow in virtue and faith!

As we reach closer to Holy week and Pascha, let us remember the words of the Gospel of John: "In Him was life, and the life was the light of men, and the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness could not overcome it." (John 1:4-5). We should think of being “the light” like how we light each other’s candles during the Paschal rush service. Instead of keeping the light to ourselves, we should spread it around! Whenever someone’s candle goes out, we should relight it. If our candle goes out, we should ask for someone’s help to relight it. From up close, we can see each candle and person individually. However, from afar, the candles are all one large and bright light. You'll meet so many people whose “candles” are out, and it is our job to spread the light. Sometimes, we’ll have to face dark environments and remind ourselves that it’s hard to adjust from the dark to light. Those who have been in darkness for a while may be uncomfortable with a new-found light. Rather than forcing light upon those who may not be ready, let us gradually glow and be radiant, striving to be examples of Christ’s love for mankind.

Staying Motivated Mid-Year

by Londyn, SEM Intern

At any stage of life–high school, college–finishing the school year can feel overwhelming with the demands of education, family, friends, social life, and our faith. Balancing these aspects can be challenging, but with thoughtful strategies, you can manage your time effectively and stay motivated. Here are some tips on time management, balancing responsibilities, staying motivated, and the importance of exercise and the outdoors! I believe that with balance we can bring ourselves more peace in life. 

Time Management Tips

Time management is crucial, especially during the busy end-of-year period. Start by making a list of everything you need to do and rank these tasks by importance and deadlines. Focus on completing the most critical tasks first, avoiding the stress of last-minute rushes. Planning your day, including specific times for studying, family activities, and breaks, helps allocate time effectively. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps and set achievable goals for each day or week to provide a sense of accomplishment. Avoid procrastination by tackling tasks as soon as they arise and use techniques like the Pomodoro method (working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break) to maintain focus. Additionally, make time for constant prayer. “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” Or, “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me for I am weak.”

Balancing Family/Social Life and School Responsibilities

Maintaining a balance between family, social life, and school responsibilities is essential for overall well-being. Communicate with your family and friends about your schedule and commitments to gain their support and understanding. Focus on spending quality time with loved ones, even if it’s just a short period, as meaningful interactions can strengthen relationships and provide emotional support. Consider incorporating social time into your routine, such as study groups with friends or family prayer sessions, to stay connected while fulfilling responsibilities. It’s also crucial to know how to say no when necessary to prevent overcommitting and becoming overwhelmed. Prioritize your well-being and responsibilities over social pressures.

Staying Motivated in School and Mundane Activities

Staying motivated during the final stretch of the school year can be tough. Establish both short-term and long-term goals to give you something to work towards and celebrate your progress and achievements. Remind yourself why your education and activities are important, whether for personal growth, future career opportunities, or making your family proud. Staying connected to your faith by starting and ending your day with prayer can provide strength and perseverance. Try crossing yourself to bless yourself before and after work; whether you are cooking, cleaning, studying, or about to take a test. Take some time to memorize these two prayers: Common Prayers - Before and after any Work - Orthodox Church in America. Adding variety to your routine can also boost motivation, such as changing your study environment or trying different study techniques. Lastly, don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed; reaching out to teachers, family, or friends for support and encouragement can make a significant difference.

Importance of Exercise and the Outdoors in Learning

Physical activity and spending time outdoors play a vital role in overall well-being and academic performance. Regular exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, enhancing cognitive function and concentration. Activities like walking, running, or playing sports (even without a team, just play with friends or family!) can boost energy levels and improve focus. Physical activity helps reduce stress and anxiety by releasing endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. Taking breaks for exercise can help you feel more relaxed and focused when you return to your studies. Studies show that spending time outdoors can improve attention and creativity, making it easier to absorb and retain information. If ever possible, take your study sessions outside to enjoy fresh air and sunlight. Use your time outdoors to appreciate the beauty of the world around you and deepen your connection to God.

As you navigate the final stretch of your school year, remember that balance and faith are your best allies. By managing your time effectively, maintaining a healthy balance between your responsibilities, staying motivated, and prioritizing physical activity and the outdoors, you can finish the school year strong. Keep the Lord at the center of your life, and you’ll find the strength and resilience to overcome any challenges that come your way. God be with you! 

Is English Doomed?

by Cecilia, SEM Intern

I spent five weeks in Romania this past summer, visiting family members whom I had not seen for years. Naturally, everyone asked me what I planned to study after high school, to which I would reply, “English and the Classics.” Judging by their knitted brows and expressions of pity, I guessed that they were less than satisfied with my answer. Desperately trying to find a hope for my future, they would question, “You’re not interested in math?” I would laugh and brush it off, but I truly began to pity those deprived of the love of classical literature.

C.S. Lewis wrote an essay titled Is English Doomed?, addressing a) the notion that English can be taught by just anybody and b) the unfortunate reality that English is no longer as prestigious of a study as it once was and is in danger of disappearing. And this was in 1944! Unfortunately, the situation has only festered in our modern rejection of the world of literature that came before us and gave us the world in which we now live.

Lewis comments that “the Classics have almost been routed. Unless English, seriously studied, succeeds to their place, the English which ‘any teacher’ inculcates in the course of teaching something else will be at best the reflection of his favourite newspaper and at worst the technical jargon of his own subject.” But what does “English, seriously studied” entail? Doesn’t studying literature serve the sole purpose of entertaining and aiding appreciation? Isn’t it just a way to “have laughed at the jokes, shuddered at the tragedy, [and] wept at the pathos”? Lewis understands that this appreciation is necessary and by no means unimportant, but is not the ultimate end. The true end of literary studies is to make the student a spectator of time and existence.

If one gains wisdom from experience, how much wisdom must the literary student have, who has experienced worlds of sorrow, challenge, love, joy, embarrassment, and forgiveness? Truly, one does not only gain appreciation for life by studying literature, but actually gains the experience of having vicariously lived through it all and deeply analyzed it. Don’t we need these spectators of time to guide us and shape us? The student, by “meet[ing] the past where alone the past still lives, is taken out of the narrowness of his own age and class into a more public world.” How beautiful! How necessary!

Lewis says that English can be aptly considered “the most liberal—and liberating—discipline of the three [i.e., Literae Humaniores, English, and History].” But however liberating it may be for the individual person, I began to feel troubled by the prospect of spending years studying something only to better my own person, and not to serve those around me.

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of meeting and speaking with the head of the Department of English at one of the colleges I am interested in attending. I took this opportunity to ask him how I could serve with an English degree and what I could offer to others. It seemed to me that the only option of service an English major was offered was teaching. However, he told me that, above all, the most valuable thing I have to give is myself. If someone could form herself to be a truly phenomenal person, then what could she not do? How could she not serve? He upheld the value that first the person must be cultivated, then some specific profession. Universities too often factory-produce adults who have deep knowledge of one discipline, but no knowledge of themselves.

He therefore asserted that if someone could shape herself through the reading of the Great Books, then she could have a truly tremendous impact on those around her. Not only would her character be influential, but she would also be able to perform any task required of her. The study of English, especially in a Classical Liberal Arts environment, puts the student in a position to effectively approach any task or problem, thus being able to do whatever is required of her. So, my question is no longer “How could I serve?”, but rather “How could I not serve?!”

So, although slightly ridiculed by my extended family, I plan to study English, which, as Lewis points out, very well may be doomed. If the question is, however, whether I myself as an English student will be doomed, I am determined to answer in the negative. As Lewis lays out, “the true aim of literary studies is to lift the student out of his provincialism by making him ‘the spectator,’ if not of all, yet of much, ‘time and existence.’” What more could one want?

Gaining College Credit in High School

by Juliana, Summer ‘24 Intern

For many homeschooled students, the prospect of college after high school is one shrouded in doubt, anxiety, and very realistic financial concerns. The potential culture shock inherent in going from being a teenager on the somewhat-sheltered scale to becoming a college student is a bit scary. But more important is the knowledge that most four-year universities will require you to shell out ridiculous amounts of money for basic courses like English and Biology, even if they haven’t got any direct relevance to your major. In this article, I will expound upon the possibilities open to homeschoolers for obtaining college credit while still in high school and give some advice based on my personal college-in-highschool experience.

Let me start with AP courses. They are probably the best-known of all the options out there, due to their popularity. The end-of-year exams have both free-response and multiple-choice questions (the language exams often have speaking and listening portions, and the computer science exams, naturally, have a programming portion, but those are in the minority). In order to obtain credit, you will need to 1) take and pass the course at an accredited school (online or brick-and-mortar), 2) sign up for your exam on time (usually by October; if you call your local public school, they will often allow you to take the exam there. If no students there are taking it, you can offer to pay the proctoring fee), 3) show up for and take the exam, and 4) pass with a 3 or higher.

A 3 is generally considered a passing score, although some colleges will only accept a 4 or 5 for credit purposes. Regardless of your score (or whether you even took the exam!), having an AP course on your high school transcript is indicative of high performance and motivation, as the entire course is college-level material (usually, one college semester spread out over two high school semesters). It also is an example of how Exams. Are. Your. Best. Friend. (I say this a lot, so prepare to read it many, many more times!) There is absolutely no way for a doting parent to give you an A and a passing score of 4 on your AP Biology exam just because they felt like you “put in lots of effort,” or “deserved the credit.” It simply cannot happen. When a college (or anyone you want to impress, for that matter) sees that A and a 4, they know that it represents the willingness to put in hours of hard work, as well as a strong work ethic and good test-taking skills. There’s no way to fake it. Homeschoolers’ achievements are often doubted. Yes, it’s gotten better since the ‘80s, when my mom and her sister were asked basic math questions in public, but many people are still very skeptical. Having a solid grade in literally anything from a trusted institution (whether it’s an accredited school, the College Board, or any university) cannot be made up and will help you tremendously.

But I digress – can you tell I’m very passionate about this subject?

The next set of exams I want to tackle are the CLEP exams. These are mostly multiple choice (a few also include an essay portion) exams that, like the APs, are offered by the College Board. Most public schools do not offer them, but because you can study at home (at your own pace!) and take the exam itself at your local community college, they are amazing for homeschoolers. For no money, you can obtain an exam prep book and a video course from Modern States Alliance, a nonprofit that helps college students finish their freshman year for free. If you finish all the videos and exercises with a high enough grade, Modern States will cover the testing fee (tip: there are 5 options for each question and you get 5 attempts, so you should be good! Just, you know, remember what your previous answers were). You will have to pay a proctoring fee, though: in my experience, it’s usually between $15 and $40. CLEP exams are great because you can treat them like the final exam for a course that you did entirely at home. For instance, when I was doing US History, my parents were really the only instructors. They picked out a textbook, had me take notes & answer comprehension questions, and picked out supplemental reading. Once I neared the end of the school year, I worked with the Modern States Alliance book to fill in any gaps in my knowledge, took practice tests, and was able to walk into the testing center and pass the exam. It’s awesome if you want to make your history / biology / psychology course fun and interesting with an added layer of credibility (and, of course, avoid harmful and/or radical moral ideas that might be pushed in some classrooms). Plus, you might get some gen-ed courses out of the way! Win win.

I should note here that many four-year colleges do not accept CLEP exams; I think this might be in part due to the fact that they are mostly just multiple choice, and thus, without the free response portion, are inherently easier. However, most community colleges (more on those later!) do accept them. And, even if a college won’t accept your, say, CLEP Biology exam, it’s a great thing to have on your transcript, and says a lot about you that you passed that exam in high school. Like I said: Exams are your friend.

The third method for obtaining college credit in high school is DE, or Dual Enrollment. This is a fancy way of saying that you take a class through a university that counts as a high school class as well. So basically – double the credit!

There are two main ways to do this. The first is to enroll in an online class from a school that has a partnership with an accredited university. Online schools like the CLRC, the Potter’s School, and Veritas Press will sometimes team up with a college so that a class you take through them also counts as a college level class through that specific university. For instance, I took an English class through Veritas Press, which collaborates with Cairn University. Once I’d finished, I had, for all intents and purposes, completed 1) a high school English course, and 2) an junior-level English class at Cairn University.

The second way to obtain dual enrollment credit is to enroll in a class directly through a university. Yes, that’s right, you’ll be going to a real classroom, with a real teacher, and classmates in real life! I know it sounds scary, but honestly, take it from me: You’ll be fine. Some states have programs where homeschooled students are allowed to take courses at local universities, but this is not universal; check to see what is available in your area. However, many community colleges allow homeschooled students to take classes there – often for free or a discounted price. This is a really nice deal if you want to get the credit, but don’t want to do every single course at home.

All of the on-ground community college classes I have taken so far have followed the format of 1-2 days on campus per week. This means that you have your lecture/lab/exam/ whatever else you’re doing, receive your assignments for the following meeting, and disperse. If you were homeschooled for all or much of your academic life, this probably sounds rather familiar. As I had self-studied and done online classes for all of high school, the academic transition to community college was not too difficult.

The following link leads to a list of all the resources I’ve mentioned in this article, information on several online schools based on my personal experience, and some other resources you might find useful. Please do note that this is anecdotal evidence; it might not hold true for you, but then again, it might be helpful. Also – please be aware that I haven’t personally checked all of the content on these websites, so if you come across anything inappropriate or blasphemous, I don’t condone it – do avoid it!

I will update this list as I have time and come across more potential resources.

Get the list here!

Creating a Culture of Life

by Londyn, Saint Emmelia Ministries Intern

How often do we feel overwhelmed in life? Not only by the endless tasks, obligations, and even things we love to do, but by how our world seems to be full of things that could be done better? Something that has been on my mind a lot lately is the pro-life movement. I recently found out several women in my life are pregnant, and it fills my heart with so much joy! However, it seems almost daily I am bombarded with heartbreaking news from those who don’t support life in the womb. So my question stands: how can we do this better? How can I support the life of babies (while still being a few years from having a family of my own) and inspire others to do the same?

Well, the first thing I can turn to is caring for my siblings. This is pretty expected—I have a big, beautiful family, with three sisters, two brothers, and the littlest one so young we still don’t know if the baby is a brother or sister! What a blessing this is—from my young sibling who is yet to be born, up to my brother who will be fourteen in a few months, I have a lot of opportunities to support the life of the young. But what about outside of the family? How can we support the women who are growing beautiful life inside them?

Some of the first things that come to mind are simply being there for these women: showing love and support locally–such as taking a meal to a woman and her family–donating to local charities (or the large pro-life charities in America, too!), and volunteering directly at pregnancy centers. In our parishes, we can support pregnant women, too. This can include organizing prayer groups, and/or bringing a meal every once in a while to the woman and her family.

I bought a pro-life shirt off Etsy a few months ago, and it is my absolute favorite! I have gotten several compliments on it—in places you’d least expect, too. It is beautiful to be able to make a stranger smile with a reminder that life is precious and we should support it—from the young babies in the womb up to the elderly and wise.

Consider supporting EveryLife, by either donating or purchasing diapers! This is an amazing company that is dedicated to providing essential items for babies and their families. You can buy diapers and wipes and bring them to your local pregnancy center. I know from experience they are always happy to receive a smile and a package of diapers. Recently, I had the opportunity to volunteer at my local pregnancy center. I spent two hours organizing diapers and swapping out the winter and summer clothes in the boutique. I teared up a little bit, knowing the good that these women do for other women was in that exact room I stood in. I prayed continuously, so grateful that the small actions I made could be added up by other women and men by showing love, for the mother, the baby, and the father! Volunteering at the pregnancy center was a beautiful reminder of the impact we can have on our community. It’s not just about the physical tasks we perform, but the love and care we show to others.

In addition to volunteering, there are many other ways to support the pro-life movement. You can participate in pro-life events and marches, such as those organized by OCLife of America, and engage in respectful conversations with those who have different beliefs. Educating yourself and others about the importance of protecting life is crucial. Share information from reputable pro-life organizations. Being pro-life is about more than just opposing abortion; it’s about promoting a generation of life that respects and values every human being, from conception to natural death. It’s about supporting mothers and families, advocating for policies that protect life, and working towards a society where every life is cherished. People of all ages have a unique opportunity to inspire others and make a difference. Your passion and dedication can encourage others to join the movement and support life in their own ways. Remember, every small action counts, and together, we can create a world where every life is valued and protected. Supporting the pro-life movement is a beautiful and fulfilling journey. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or simply showing love and support to those around you, every effort makes a difference. Let’s continue to stand together for life and inspire others to do the same.

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, and before you were born, I sanctified you. I established you a prophet to the nations.” -Jeremiah 1:5

5 Saint Emmelia Resources You Might Not Know About

by Mindi Popovich-Schneider, Saint Emmelia Ministries Assistant

Since you’re reading this, you probably know something about our work at Saint Emmelia Ministries, whether it’s our conferences, online discussion groups, or the Saint Macrina Lecture Series. But here are five more resources you might not know about!

1. Our Spiritual Advisors. This board is made up of one priest from each Antiochian archdiocese, as well as a ROCOR and OCA priest (don’t worry, we’re working on the rest of the jurisdictions too). These wonderful priests are knowledgable about homeschooling and are available to help you connect with families and resources in your archdiocese/area.

2. Hymn Study. I see a LOT of parents asking how to make Ambleside Online’s music study fit better with our faith. Of course, we’ve got you covered! This offers a list of suggested hymns (sheet music included) to study throughout the course of the school year.

3. An Orthodox Morning Basket. Another question I see a lot, especially from families who are new to Orthodoxy, is how to incorporate the Faith into the school day. Using the Charlotte Mason concept of “the morning basket,” this guide offers many different suggestions so that you can choose what fits your family’s specific needs!

4. Scholarships/Grants. By God’s grace and the generosity of donors, we’re so blessed to be able to offer scholarships. The Saint Basil Scholarship is specifically for clergy families to use at St. Raphael School or Classical Learning Resource Center (St. Athanasius already has one set up from the same funding source). The Saint Theosebia Scholarship is open to any homeschool family for any education-related need. The Homeschool Co-Op Grant supports any Orthodox co-op and can be used for a wide variety of needs. Finally, the St. Gregory Merit Scholarship is awarded to one high school senior each year, though all applicants receive a certificate and commencement tassel.

5. Book Recommendations. Our book lists are extensive and constantly being updated! Make sure to check them out to get ideas for your or your kids’ next read!

We have so much more to offer than this, including some things that will be launched very soon! (Hint: it has to do with co-ops!) But we want to hear from you: what resources do YOU need the most?

Hiding in the Library: Orthodox Books for Children and Teens

by Sevastiane, Summer ‘24 Intern

There are so many books out in the world, and not all of them are edifying.  What we put into our brains matters.  If we put junk into our brains it will affect our souls and our thoughts, but if we put edifying knowledge and pure thoughts into our brains, it will be beneficial for us. Our faith calls us to keep a pure mind and heart, for what goes in comes out. Sometimes it is hard to find good books and it is even harder to find good Christian and Orthodox books for teens and children to read.  So here are some I have enjoyed!

Letters to Saint Lydia by Melinda Johnson: I would recommend this book for somewhat older teens. It follows a non-Orthodox girl and her journey to finding the faith through her letters to her patron, Saint Lydia. Lydia’s family converts to Orthodoxy without her and she doesn’t know what she wants to do, so she writes to Saint Lydia.  This book is very relatable since it is set in modern times and covers a lot of difficult topics teens face today.  I loved this book very much and I recommend it to everyone I know.  Ten out of ten for sure!

Voyage to the Rock By Father Matthew Penney:  For those of you who like mystery books, this one is great.  It is like any other mystery book you would find in the bookstore, but the main characters are Orthodox! This one is great as a read-aloud or for tweens who want to read it themselves.  It follows Martin, a priest’s kid, who has to move to Newfoundland, Canada to help his family build a parish. There he finds an old cross. Is it the cross from the voyage of Saint Brendan the Navigator? With his sister and his new friend Ashley, Martin tries to figure out the mystery of the cross,  all while the evil Sullivan O’Connell hunts them down. This one is an enjoyable read. 

Saint Spyridon’s Shoes by Christine Rogers: This book is good for any age. This book takes place in Corfu, where Spyros fishes on the beach and longs to attend school like his friend, Nico. He then meets an old man on the beach and befriends him. This is a story about their friendship.  The friendship turns out to be a lot more important than Spyros realizes. This book is short and sweet and a great one for everyone to read!

Who is God? Who am I? Who Are You? by Dee Pennock: This is one of my favorite books to read. This book also covers a lot of difficult topics for teens about living in the world. It has tons of good quotes and talks about free will and how to love our neighbor. This book covers all the hard topics but formats them in a fun and interesting way to read. The illustrations might look funny, but this book is truly one of the best for teens! 

Icon by Georgia Briggs: I cannot stress enough the importance of this book for teens.  I love this book with all my heart.  Sometimes living in the world as an Orthodox Christian can be hard.  Christ says to live in this world but not of this world, and sometimes we can get mixed up and start to morph to the expectations and pressure from our friends and non-Christian family and the secular world.  We can start to think that it is more important for us to have money and lots of clothing and to keep up to date with the latest trends. This book is a great example for remembering our faith in the modern world. .  Icon is about a young Euphrosyne, whose family is killed, so she has to move in with her grandparents. It is set in a future where being Christian is illegal, and people have to change their names and their whole identity.  This book is about one girl fighting for what she believes in and putting her trust in Christ in times of struggle. Euphrosyne is a character you can both relate to and try to imitate. This book is a good reminder of what our time on earth is really for. 

My Elder, Joseph the Heschycast by Elder Ephraim of Arizona:  Saint Joseph is one of my favorite saints and this book is his thorough life story. It is thicker than the books mentioned above, and it is not fiction, but his life story is amazing. At the start of the story, he struggles with the same problems we all have, like anger, but he overcomes them and achieves a state of complete grace and prayer from the heart. Elder Joseph also had a very close relationship with the Theotokos, and he would pray to her all the time, for any need. Saint Joseph was able to see demons and physically had to fight them for them to disappear. I really love this book and think it is a great book for early teens. 

Precious Vessels of the Holy Spirit by Protecting Veil Press: The contemporary elders of Greece are all newer saints or people believed to be saints but awaiting canonization. This book covers many of their lives. It has a short biography about each of them, as well as the counsel or advice that they gave. I love this book because it has so many saints, many of which are newer saints. Their advice is priceless and you can learn a lot from reading this book. This book is more for teens, and adults can read it too!

While these are just some of the many Orthodox books out there, all of these books are fantastic reads, and there is something for everyone, from mystery to biography. I loved reading these books, and I hope you will too. I hope you can learn from reading these books!

Easy Ways to Serve as a Young Person

by Sevastiane, Summer ‘24 Intern

“Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.”- Romans 12:10. 

The Bible tells us to serve each other and to treat our neighbors as ourselves. If you want to do something that will benefit other people, there are so many things that can be done. It can feel overwhelming to consider taking on a big project, but helping others doesn’t have to involve taking on something big. There are so many little ways you can help. 

If you are crafty, something simple and fun is to make icons. You don’t have to draw icons or paint anything; rather, you can collect the paper icons that you have and ask your friends to contribute.  These icons can come from church bulletins, calendars, or greeting cards.  The icons can be big or small, as long as they are paper.  You don’t want any icons that have tears or are bent.  After collecting icons, glue them on a piece of cardstock and make sure they look nice.  This is a task you can do over time.  After collecting a decent amount of icons, you can put them in a big envelope. You can give these icons to children who may not have access to wood icons. For example, one of my friends went on a mission trip to Africa and was able to take an envelope that I had collected which contained about 50 paper icons.  She distributed them to the children there, most of whom did not own icons. If you don’t know someone personally going on a mission trip, consider contacting OCMC to find out whom you can send them to. 

Another way to help people is to make “giving bags.” These are simple and can be made easily. You can put small things in the bags and give them to the people you see soliciting for help on the street. A small bag could contain non-perishable snacks and simple things like sunscreen, soap, hand sanitizer, a toothbrush and toothpaste, socks, water, and other daily necessities. These are nice to make and can be kept in a car, which makes giving them directly to people very easy. 

If you like being outside, a great way to give to other people is to make seed kits. You can collect seeds from fruits and vegetables with simple instructions on how to plant them and how important nutritious fruits and veggies can be. You can find local schools and organizations to give them to. 

If you enjoy working with children, there are many opportunities to assist within the community or to help a parent that you know.  Many after-school or summer camps welcome counselors-in-training to assist younger campers. You can even look closer to home and consider volunteering with your parish’s Sunday School or Vacation Church School programs. You could also get to know the moms in your parish and offer to watch their children occasionally so they can get caught up on chores or have an hour or so to rest. 

You can tutor a younger sibling or neighbor if you have skills in a particular subject.  Many libraries offer tutoring programs and are often looking for tutors. There are even tutoring programs online where you can log in and teach students around the world. This is another area where you can start by figuring out who in your church needs help. 

A great way to volunteer if you like being around people is to volunteer at a senior center. You can make cards for the seniors or you could read to them, offer help with technology, play games with them, or just keep them company because a lot of the seniors can be lonely. 

If you are more of an animal lover, volunteering at a local animal shelter is always a fun thing to do! You can walk dogs, play with kittens, or do any work that they need you to do. There are also many pet cafes where you can go and play with the dogs and cats even if you can’t adopt one. 

If you are someone who loves to read, a good idea might be starting a little free library. You can get rid of old books and build a little bookshelf outside and put your books in them. People love getting free books and exchanging them! For people who don’t like to buy books, this is a great option. 

On the topic of books, another great idea is a book drive. Collect all the old books you and your family don’t want anymore and you can give them away for free in front of your house. Advertise like you would a garage sale and you can accept donations. Make the book drive look more organized and separate the books by genre. Whatever donation money you earn can go towards the needy fund at your church or a charity, such as your local Friends of the Library. 

A small and easy way to get rid of your old books would be to donate them to your local library. It is always nice to do and you can ask your friends if they have anything to donate as well. The libraries appreciate it and once you get rid of your old books you can get more new ones to fill your shelf. Just be aware that if you live in a more populated or wealthier area, the books will probably go to the Friends of the Library book sale instead of being added to the collection for circulation.

If you are more artistic, a nice way to spread joy to people is to make a rock garden out front with positive messages. You can make a take-one-leave-one set up, or just make a bunch of rocks for people to see. It is always nice to go on a walk and be reminded that you are loved or that everything is going to be ok. Put your personal touch to the rocks. Some of them can be just pretty paintings but some of them can have inspiring–or even Orthodox–quotes. It’s nice to have a balance of both. 

Another artistic thing to do is to make cards for kids in hospitals. There are many organizations you can partner with to do this,  and it is always satisfying to make cards and know that they are appreciated. It is nice for the kids who receive the cards to know that they are being thought of. You can make cards during the holiday seasons or just for fun., but the more time you put into making them beautiful, the bigger impact it will have on the kids! 

This is more for helping nature rather than people: plant flowers that are native to your homeland and that attract bees, butterflies, and birds. You can make a home for them out of all the flowers you can plant, and it is always nice to have birds and butterflies around your home to watch. 

During Christmas, have a toy drive or save up and donate to a toy drive that is already going on. The toys will go to girls and boys who are less privileged. Sometimes toy drives want toys that are gently used so you could give some of your toys away instead of having to buy brand new ones. 

These are all small but important ways to give to other people. The bonus is that these are enjoyable ways to serve, instead of feeling like you’re working! 

What are some other ways you serve others?

How Orthodoxy Changed Me, Part 2

This is the second part of a series. Read the first part here.

by Londyn, Summer ‘24 Intern

When my mom first announced to my family that we would be attending a new church–that is, the Orthodox Church–I didn’t know what to feel, let alone to think. I was fourteen at the time and had never had any particular consistency with the denominations of my church; we mostly went wherever was closest to us. So, her announcement didn’t seem too out of the ordinary, and we didn’t put too much thought into it; we loved God and knew we should attend Church every Sunday. But what inspired this particular decision?

Since I was born, I’ve been a regular church attendee. I was baptized at six, alongside my dad, and later baptized again at age twelve in the Anglican Church. Between those years, we had tried a couple of other denominations, including Baptist and non-denominational. I appreciated the Anglican Church when I entered the building and experienced the service. But I had never heard much of the church, the only time being a brief mention of C. S. Lewis’s Christianity. Nonetheless, I have always been an eager learner so I was more than willing to participate in the service.

We quickly got plugged into the church and spent two years there. We believed we were all satisfied for approximately a year and a half of that time. But slowly, and yet again, we felt a nag, like something was missing. My mom would speak to me and ask questions about my views and thoughts of the church we participated in. Through our discussions, both full of positive and negative views, we almost considered attending a Catholic service. I was surrounded by quite a few Catholics, especially friends, and nearly thought this was a good idea—until I heard someone say to my mom, “Well, just choose whichever church feels right to you.”

Which church feels right? I thought to myself. This doesn’t seem sustainable. My family's “feelings” on different denominations have changed throughout the years and have always left us yearning for more. We can’t continue our walk with Christ based on our feelings.

However, we continued attending the Anglican Church for approximately another six months. Slowly, our church and priest were transitioning things to be more and more traditional. We switched from the more Protestant hymns and even popular-sounding Christian music to small components of chanting–something entirely new for me (and all of us in my family!). The first time I heard it in the service, I looked up from my service book; I definitely wasn’t expecting it. But I felt drawn to know, hear, and participate more. In my youth group, I heard a mention of Icons–another thing I had no clue about. I didn’t even know what to picture; I had never been exposed to that word! Oh, how much I had to learn.

In August of 2022, my mom made the abrupt decision I mentioned before. We were going to attend an Orthodox church and see what happened. She told my siblings and me that she had emailed the priest and that we would try out our first day that Sunday, which was only two days away. To be completely honest, I was upset. It felt too abrupt–we were happy enough at our Anglican church. Weren’t we?

And that’s just it. You can’t simply be “happy enough” or “just” satisfied in your love of Christ; it is so much deeper. The moment I stepped into the Orthodox Church, however, I was taken aback. The walls were adorned with icons; prayer, faith, and sincerity were all around me. Not only did I sense a holy presence, but I could see, smell, and fully participate in this glorious finding. I felt at home–even though I had just entered.

After five months of being attendees, we spoke with our priest and began catechism classes. Every hour per week we spent for months with him was like discovering my faith and love for Christ again. I found what I was missing. The truth and beauty of the Church, the Church that has been passed down for thousands of years! Glory be to God for this beautiful finding! I wanted to be chrismated and participate in the Holy Eucharist. And here is the start of when my spiritual life was entirely changed.

It took me months and, honestly, still years to come to become entirely accustomed to the services, the holy traditions, the feast days, and even the fasting. And through everything I have learned and experienced so far, I know that the missing part of me is finally found. I was always told that being a Christian is difficult, but I know, see, and believe that the sufferings here on earth we deal with are what make us stronger in our faith. I didn’t truly know what I believed in my faith for the first fourteen years; I listened to what I was told and never gave too much thought as to why there are so many offshoots of Christianity. But the moment I was exposed to the truth, I wanted nothing more than to always be surrounded by it.

Looking back, I wish that I was always exposed to the beauty of the Church and, if you’ve read my previous post, the beauty of homeschooling. However, the journeys that I went through are just the start of my life. The base I have been given is a strong foundation that I pray to keep for the rest of my earthly life. May God grant us all many years!

How Homeschooling Changed Me, Part 1

by Londyn, Summer ‘24 Intern

In just a few months, I will enter the ninth year of my homeschooling journey. My mother pulled me out of school at the end of second grade, and since then she has always been my favorite teacher.

The adjustment to attending a public school and switching to a classical education those “many, many” years ago was a slow process. On top of the rules at school that made my mom uncomfortable (why wasn’t she allowed to visit me during the days?), I experienced and saw bullying. My mom barely knew what I was taught during the long eight hours I was away from her, and I didn’t see my siblings as much as I would have liked. By the time I woke up in the morning, got ready, had breakfast, and raced to the bus stop, I already felt a longing for the comfort my mom has always provided me. Hours later, at lunch time, I would wonder why I couldn’t be at home enjoying a simple lunch with my family. Instead, I was crushed in a huge lunch hall with hundreds of loud and disrespectful children.

I had friends that I loved, so I was comfortable. Looking back, though, I know I wasn’t thriving. Whether or not my mom could fully sense my thoughts and feelings, she knew something was up. And though it took time for her to convince my dad this was the best option for me, years later, my family can’t imagine a different path. Homeschooling changed me.

I can’t truthfully say that I remember my first year of school at home crystal clear. I can say, however, that I was happy. Something was different—did I connect the dots as to what had changed? Maybe yes, maybe no. But simply looking back at the pictures my mother took that year, I see so much joy: my siblings and myself, as we sat around our dining table, listening to classical stories she would read aloud, munching on muffins we had made that morning, and sipping tea in pretty china. We studied the art of Van Gogh, Turner, and Constable; we listened to and discussed classical music that has been passed down for centuries. I believe I was exposed to more truth, beauty, and goodness that year than I had been handed my entire life in public school! And since then, my love for education has only grown. 

In all that I have shared, I have not dramatized my adoration for my home education; it is all true. I have not, however, mentioned the tears. And yes, there were tears (over something I now plan on majoring in college – Mathematics!) however, not in its entirety. I have always had a hankering for math, but my mother and I must have thought that long division (of all things!) would be the death of me. 

I wanted to give up; I was tired and frustrated. But my mom taught me something that day that has stayed with me all these years. Don’t give up. And so I listened; I tried. It took weeks and weeks for me to finally master the “Dirty Monkeys Smell Bad” (divide, multiply, subtract, bring down). But once I pushed through and finished, I felt accomplished. I had done something. 

As I finish up my last few years of home education and prepare for my away-from-home college studies, I remember where I came from. I remind myself of the beginning; the reason I truly love learning. Why am I going to college? To further that desire I have. To know and learn as much as I can: knowledge is a gift from God, a gift I want to nourish. 

In the second part of this post, I will dive deeper into something that took me longer to find than my search for wisdom–my search for and conversion to the Orthodox faith. Knowing and having a desire for truth began with an education at home; my first step into the Church has only strengthened this.

Those few words that my mom shared with me that day have stuck with me greatly: Don’t give up. Whatever it is that I am facing (often a tad more challenging than long division!) I know that if I make up my mind that I will do something, I will do it. I don’t let the words of others distract or discourage me. By being surrounded by such a beautiful, loving, and inspirational woman who gave me this education, I have also been given a yearning for some of the greatest gifts: knowledge, love for Christ, and truth. 

Read Londyn’s conversion story here!

Serving the Church (When You Don't Have Time, Energy, or Money)

by Mindi Popovich-Schneider

It pretty much goes without saying that each Orthodox Christian is called to contribute to the life and health of their own parish–it’s part of our tithe, our almsgiving, and our prayer. It brings us closer to Christ and to those in our community by turning our gaze outward from ourselves to the whole body of Christ. And, of course, it’s simply a necessity if we want our parishes to operate smoothly and bear fruit. 

At the same time, it can be a challenge to find a ministry that fits well. It doesn’t make sense, for example, to join the cleaning rotation when you have to rush home to put grouchy toddlers down for a nap. Nor does it make sense to commit to something that you’re simply uninterested in and therefore have no motivation to help with longterm. And it definitely doesn’t make sense to make a commitment that you simply don’t have time for! And sure, giving beyond your normal tithe is always helpful, but not always possible…and monetary giving doesn’t help your family become part of the fabric of the community in the same way that interfacing with your fellow parishioners does. 

Each parish, though, has so many little needs and wants that there is something for every single member to help with! Here are some ways that you can serve the Church without time, money, or (much) energy:

1. Look for the small contributions. At my parish, coffee hour is a big deal. We have about 250 attendees per week, making up a close-knit community that cherishes fellowship. We always seem to be short on food and volunteers, and it’s no wonder. Preparing food for that many people is overwhelming, especially if you have little kids. You might have a similar conundrum at your parish. Still, there are a lot of ways to help out, even if you can’t commit to joining the rotation or bringing a meal for everyone to share. For example, you might replenish paper goods or tea and coffee. The little additions, such as coffee creamer or grapes, are always appreciated. You don’t have to be responsible for hosting an entire coffee hour by yourself, but there are lots of ways you can help out the ministry without breaking the bank–or your back! The same goes for the cleaning team. Perhaps they need refills of supplies. Maybe it would cut back the time they spend on the weekend if someone swept after weekday services.

2. Leave it better than you found it. For our Lenten retreat one year, my old parish invited Kh. Krista West to speak on beauty. Even though part of her discussion focused on having beautiful books in our homes, the part that stuck out to me the most was her exhortation to help beautify our parishes. All of us, she said, can contribute, even if we’re not on the cleaning rotation or beautification team. I don’t know about your parish, but every time I walk into our nave, I see picture books, toys, or papers left behind from the last service (a really good problem to have!). Since hearing Kh. Krista’s talk, I’ve tried to be intentional about picking up anything that isn’t where it’s supposed to be. Fr. Noah likes to say that when we come to church, we’re God’s children playing house–and shouldn’t our house be a tidy offering to God and a welcoming environment to guests trying to find Him? This isn’t a big time commitment–all it takes is thirty seconds here, one minute there–but it goes a long way to helping the community as a whole. This might be something you already do as you notice things, but making a personal commitment to going out of your way to tidy as you exit the nave, narthex, or great room will make a huge difference.

3. Pick one small project once in a while. If you look around your parish, you’ll probably see a lot of little things that need to be fixed–or could be improved! For example, when I found out that a couple of my friends were struggling to come to church because there was nowhere for them to nurse besides the bathroom or the (very exposed) library, I sought a blessing to hang a curtain and a sign in one of the classrooms that wasn’t in use. It took about two hours total to come up with fabric, a hanging system, and a sign. The next project I hope to tackle is our bulletin boards. The cork is cratered, the signs discolored and rippled, and the decorative ribbon unraveling. It won’t take long to cover the boards in some leftover fabric and make updated, laminated signs. My point is this: identify something that makes you wince a bit when you see it, get a blessing to work on it, and fix it. It probably won’t take long, and it will almost definitely provide a nice break from your other responsibilities! 

4. Make it part of homeschool. It can be hard to fit even weekday services in between homeschool, extracurriculars, and housekeeping–how on earth are you supposed to squeeze additional ministries in? Well…don’t! Make it part of your schoolwork. Choose a weekday–maybe once a week or once a month–and take your kids to church. Ask your priest what needs to be done (if he doesn’t have any ideas, cleaning the glass and candle stands in the nave is a great start!) and teach your kids how to do it. Cleaning something? That’s home ec! Organizing books in the parish bookstore or library? Literacy skills! Refreshing the flowers in front of the icons? Nature study! And let’s be real, you don’t really even need to justify your task. We’re here to raise Christians, not academics, and the lessons they’ll learn caring for God’s house are far more precious than any they will learn from reading a book.  

We Need to Get Over Ourselves to Give Ourselves

by Cecilia, Intern

When I asked a chanter at my church how to get over my chanting nerves, he laughed and said, “Realize it’s not about you.” Ouch. This was a difficult comment for me to swallow because I realized just how self-absorbed I was! My fear and insecurity were preoccupying my ability to truly serve God and praise Him with my voice. I needed to come to the realization that it wasn’t about me: it was about God! I had to get over myself.

Coincidentally, just a few days before this conversation, my priest relayed to me a saying he had heard once: “you need to get over yourself to give yourself.” I was confused by this at first, not seeing how it practically applied to my life, but after hearing this chanter’s response to my question, I began to see the truth of this axiom everywhere!

Now, when we are told to “get over ourselves”, it’s usually because we are acting self-important or are obsessing about something that (in all likelihood) troubles us alone. In this phrase, “getting over ourselves” can also refer to being at peace with who we are: who God made us to be. There are things we don’t necessarily love about ourselves, but to fully surrender ourselves to God, we must work with what we’ve been given! Our talents, disposition, and personality can and should all be instruments in serving God. We also must be careful to not compare ourselves with others so critically! Perhaps others seem more talented or better suited to serve, but let us remember: life is not so much about what we are given, but what we do with what we are given. So how can we start to give ourselves?

What better example is there to look to but Christ? I am reminded of the verse in Philippians, telling us that He “emptied Himself, taking on the form of a servant.” The Greek word used for “emptied” in this verse is ekenosen, which means to divest yourself of your prerogatives and abase yourself. What a contrast to what I do! Christ utterly emptied Himself of any prerogatives (and what prerogatives He as God has!) in order to endure the Passion and Cross, thus saving mankind. And to this great sacrifice, what do I give back? I am utterly nothing without God, yet I am so stingy in giving any efforts or talents back to Him. 

And when I do have opportunities to serve, I often consider them unworthy of my time or beneath my talents. Now, if you have watched Man of God (and if you haven’t, you must!), you may remember the scene of St. Nektarios on his hands and knees, scrubbing the bathroom floors. It is evident that he considered no task beneath himself, and served God joyfully in whatever way he could. He “got over himself”, so to speak, and refused to allow his ego to prevent him from serving the Lord. In the same way, let us follow Christ’s example, wishing to serve, not to be served (Matt 20:28). Christ set aside all of his glory and self-concern to serve us, so let us be faithful in the same way, in both small and great things. St. Nikon writes, “Perform every work attentively, no matter how unimportant it may seem, as if done before the face of God." So, for a start, we can let go of what we think we are worthy of doing, and try to fully give ourselves to God in every opportunity that arises. 

When we are so focused on ourselves (what we’re doing, or how we’re doing it, or what people are thinking of us as we’re doing it), we’re not focused on others. We must get over ourselves and make our lives more about others. Let us look around! Surely, there are people who we can serve right where we are, right now, if only we can overcome our fear of serving others, our insecurity, and our self-importance.

Second, we must try to refrain from projecting ourselves onto others. Thomas Merton wrote that “the beginning of love is the will to let those we love be perfectly themselves, the resolution not to twist them to fit our own image. If in loving them we do not love what they are, but only their potential likeness to ourselves, then we do not love them: we only love the reflection of ourselves we find in them.” Thus, we should make a start in getting over ourselves by truly appreciating people for who they are. We can do this by genuinely listening to others with compassion and patience, instead of pouncing on any opportunity to share our (apparently so profound) thoughts.

I must mention my experience at my parish’s outreach ministry to the homeless in Philadelphia. A few teens from my youth group and I served a few weeks ago, and I was astonished by one of my friends who spoke to the poor as if genuinely on the same level as them. She did not view the outreach as helping the people per se, but rather as serving them as a completely equal neighbor. She conversed with them so easily because she was not overbearing, but completely just existing as a friend and neighbor. 

To serve is to imitate God Himself, for He came into the world to do so. Let us strive to imitate Christ’s example, giving ourselves to Him and to others for the glory of His name!

The Six Areas of Early Literacy

by Mindi Popovich-Schneider, Saint Emmelia Ministries Assistant

Something you might not know about me (or maybe you already do know this, and you’re about to be like, “please, Mindi, enough already!”) is that I used to be a Children’s Librarian. One major aspect of my job was planning storytimes, which meant thinking a lot about pre-literacy skills and teaching parents how to help their children hone these skills. So today, I’m going to talk about the six areas of early literacy and ways that you can strengthen your child’s skills in these areas, specifically by engaging with our Faith!

1. The first area is vocabulary. Children ages newborn to four should hear between 17,000-21,000 words per day. Research shows that children who hear substantially fewer words than this tend to struggle in the first few years of school. Now, since we’re all hanging out on the Saint Emmelia Ministries website, I would hazard a guess that not a lot of us put much stock into public education’s metrics for success. Still, I think the message is clear: words matter! Reading (naturally!), narrating what you’re doing, and asking open-ended questions and modeling a response–all these things can increase the number of words your child hears per day.

   Fortunately, being Orthodox puts us at an advantage: take your child to any service, and they will hear between 25% and 40% of those words. Add in morning, evening, and mealtime prayers, and you’re zooming towards that goal! On top of all of that, you’re automatically introducing them to lovely, delightful words that most kids don’t have the opportunity to encounter.

2. Singing is incredibly important for developing literacy skills. When we sing, we draw out our syllables naturally. Children then can hear the individual sounds and understand that words are broken up into smaller parts.  This understanding is called “phonological awareness,” which later helps children sound out words while reading.
   
   Here again, because music is such an important part of our faith, Orthodoxy comes in handy! Sing hymns with your kids throughout the day, and they’ll DEFINITELY be hearing all those phonemes (“aaaaaaaaa-leeeeeeeeee-luuuuuuuuuu-iaaaaaaaa”)!
   

3. When you’re out and about–talking walks, going to the grocery store, etc.–you probably talk to your little ones about what you see (personally, puppy doggies and “cycs”–motorcycles–are a BIG topic of discussion any time we leave the house!). Do you ever pause and talk to your kids about signs or logos? Well, that is one incredibly easy way to help develop print awareness, the understanding that letters and numbers have meaning. When reading books with your children, point out specific words, especially if those words are in a font that stands out from the others. Books with very few words are also great for developing this skill because it makes it easier for kids to connect an isolated symbol with its meaning. 

   When you’re looking at icons, be sure to point out the writing. Explain that the writing is the saint’s name. Show them the text on the scrolls and explain that it’s something that particular saint said.

4. Move over, geometry: shapes are important for reading too! After all, what are letters but shapes combined in different ways? Shape-sorting games are a great foundation for learning to write letters. As you play, talk about the similarities and differences in shapes. When you’re out and about, identify the different shapes you see. All of this helps build letter knowledge, the ability to distinguish between and identify letters.

   Thank goodness that Orthodoxy is so tactile! As you look at all the objects around you in your home or at church, talk about the shapes they are made up of. Use your child’s fingers to trace the length of a candle or the roundness of the antidoron. 

5. If your family is anything like mine, you’ve probably had to read one or two books over and over and over and over. While you might be reciting Goodnight, Moon in your sleep, this repetition is actually incredibly important for kids because it strengthens their narrative skills, or the ability to understand stories. When a child hears a story over and over, they begin to recall what happens next, unconsciously absorbing an ordered sequence of events. 

   Playing pretend–even something as basic as pretending that a blanket is a priest’s robe–can help strengthen narrative skills because it helps kids think symbolically. Playing “Liturgy” can also help kids strengthen their understanding of sequence. As your kids gain more speech, have them narrate to you what you’re doing as you prepare to say prayers (or as you watch liturgy from the Narthex!)

6. The best literacy area (in my opinion) is print motivation, or a child’s interest in and enjoyment of books. For very young children, this means allowing them to explore books in their own way: going backwards and forwards as they wish, lingering over pictures, skipping pages or reading them over and over, and even chewing on pages! At any age, being snuggled up together creates an association between reading and feeling loved. 

   Reading books about Orthodoxy can be motivating because they have an immediate connection to your child’s life. When kids recognize something in a book–perhaps a priest’s robe or a specific icon–they are more likely to want to engage with the book and find out what is going on in the pictures.

One of my biggest takeaways from my time in libraries is that almost everything we do contributes to early literacy in one way or another. You can make these activities extra rich by engaging with your kids through questions and making connections to the six different areas of literacy. And of course, as with everything in life, the best place for growth is in the beauty and love of the Church! 

Applying for College as a Homeschooler

by Ilinca, Fall ‘23 Intern

“So, how will you get into college?” If you’re a homeschooling high schooler, you’ve heard that question. I did, and it worried me. Now that I've been accepted to college, I’ve learned the answer is: “Just like everyone else.” Homeschoolers have the same rate of acceptance as brick-and-mortar school students, and there generally aren’t any application requirement differences for homeschoolers. Nevertheless, the process will inevitably feel different sometimes. 

Requirements

Many parts of the college application process are the same for homeschoolers and their public or private schooled peers. It was actually college essays which took the most time for me. Contrary to myth, colleges do not require homeschoolers to send in their high school diplomas or take the GED. The application forms I had to fill in were usually homeschooler-friendly. When they weren’t, articles on how to answer them abound on the internet. No college complained about my homeschool transcript or my parent-written counselor recommendation. 

Deciding where to apply

The first step of college applications is choosing which colleges to apply to. First, I thought about what I wanted in a college: I wanted it to be close by, to have my major and a wide variety of others, to be co-ed, and not to be ridiculously expensive. I researched colleges (mostly through internet searches), consulted my parents, and took the opportunity to hear a variety of opinions when people asked me, “so, where will you apply to college?” (NB: Saint Emmelia’s has compiled a list of colleges that are Orthodox & homeschool-friendly. Check it out here!)

Standardized Tests

Even though most colleges are “test-optional” now, I took the SAT. It’s objective; no one could argue my score is the result of my adoring parents assigning me a good grade. Standardized tests also increase chances of getting admission or a scholarship. Finally, there was little risk involved: if I hadn’t scored well, I just wouldn’t have sent my scores. While the SAT is often given at a public school, it’s managed by the College Board, not the school system, so I had no trouble signing up as a homeschooler. I found practice tests online, and the time management I learned as a homeschooler helped me get through them. I chose the SAT over the ACT and CLT, the two other popular standardized tests options, because 1) all colleges accept it, which rules out the CLT and 2) it gives more time to answer each question than the ACT. 

Letters of Recommendation

The prospect of finding letters of recommendation was concerning. How could I rival a public school kid’s arsenal of skilled recommendation writing teachers and guidance counselors? I learned that I had more wonderful teachers and other potential recommenders than I thought. My biggest trouble ended up being choosing between them! As for the guidance counselor recommendation, I found out that is technically my mom. I was definitely grateful that, throughout high school, I took classes and did activities outside my home, because that gave me the opportunity to meet the people that wrote my letters of recommendation. I would definitely recommend doing that, because it’s best if at least one of your letters of recommendation is written by someone outside your family: colleges will see that all the wonderful things your parent-counselor says are confirmed by other people. 

Transcripts

While homeschoolers don’t need to hand colleges their homeschool diplomas or take the GED, they do need to send in their homeschool transcripts. Unfortunately, we didn’t realize how long this step would take, so, while we had always kept track of my classes, we procrastinated putting my transcript together until a month or two before the deadline. First, we checked state laws for transcripts on HSLDA. Because I follow a curriculum, all my classes were named and described. But when it came to actual organization, my family didn’t have experience there (I’m the oldest child), so we used Academicrecords.net, a transcript-making website. While we didn’t end up using the transcript it generated because it was rather rigid and couldn’t accommodate the high school classes I took in Middle School, it was very helpful. It brought our attention to grading scales, GPA (weighted or unweighted), class levels, and other important elements of transcript formality. We ended up using a SEM transcript template. GPA calculations turned out easier than we thought. As for choosing between a weighted or unweighted GPA, after doing our research and calling colleges to ask which they prefer, we decided to go with a weighted GPA because 1) it could highlight the higher level classes I took and 2) the colleges and scholarships I was looking at preferred it.

The Counselor Recommendation and School Report

Finally, there was the counselor recommendation and school report my mom had to write. We didn’t realize how long this would take either. Among other things, it required a letter of recommendation written by my mom, a descriptive list of all classes taken outside the home, and an explanation of our educational philosophy and grading scale. My mom and I looked through our curriculum and brainstormed together before writing. We made it clear in the school report that we are Christian and I was educated in a Christian way, even to secular schools. If a school isn't willing to put up with that, we would rather they turned us down early. But, surprisingly, it did not give us any problems. For the grading philosophy, we used the grading scale we put on the transcript. For class descriptions, I copy-pasted from my syllabuses. 

Conclusion

College applications as a homeschooler were easier than I had thought based on the amount of concern homeschoolers typically receive on the topic. If I could give my past self advice, that would be:

First, make yourself a schedule, and give each piece of the application a different due date, some well before the application’s official due date. Especially with college essays, it’s tempting to “just work on it one more day,” and procrastinate the rest of the application due to unnecessary perfectionism. 

Second, don’t be afraid to answer people when they ask where you want to go to college. They can give you a lot of good advice, and if they don’t, you’re not obligated to obey.

Finally, don’t worry! I was afraid to press the submit button for each college. There was still so much room for improvement! And what if ten more minutes of work spells the difference between rejection and acceptance? But really, if you worked hard on it, and checked it two or three times, go ahead and send it! Don’t worry! Admissions officers don’t expect anyone, not even homeschoolers, to have perfect applications. 

If you would like to ask Ilinca questions, email us at office@saintemmelia.com. Make sure to check out our “High School & Beyond” resources!

The (Somewhat) Definitive Guide to Tying Headscarves

by Mindi Popovich-Schneider, Saint Emmelia Ministries

As with almost everything else, there is a wide spectrum of opinions on headcoverings in the Church–where and when they should be worn, when girls should start wearing them, and why (or why not) they should be worn. Regardless of your opinions on headcoverings, if you have ever tried to wear one while wrangling children (or watched someone wear one while wrangling children!), you know that they can be difficult to keep in place. Between children tugging on the ends or trying to play peekaboo (just my toddler?) and the combined heat of a scarf and a little one, scarves can become a downright nuisance! 

Here, I’ve collected six alternatives to the standard single loop or knot-under-the-chin styles. If you struggle with keeping your headscarf in place, or you’re interested in starting to cover your head, hopefully these methods will keep you cool as a cucumber (both literally and figuratively) during services.

The Bun (Rectangular scarf)

1. Put your hair into a bun at the nape of your neck.

2. Lay your scarf smooth and taut across your head.

3. Bring the ends around to the back of your head and criss cross them under your bun

4. Bring the ends up around your bun, wrapping them until you have only short tails left. You might want to tie the ends once more. Tuck the tails in. 

The Faux-Bun (Square or rectangular scarf)

Note: If you have short hair or don’t care to put your hair in a bun for whatever reason, use this instead of the above tutorial!

1. Lay your scarf smooth and taut across your head.

2. Bring the ends around to the back of your head, bringing them together. You’ll want to adjust them so that they’re folded smoothly back over the bottom edge of the scarf; otherwise, the scarf will be too loose.

3. Using a hair-tie, gather the scarf into a “ponytail.” If you have long hair, you can gather it into your ponytail for an extra anchor.

4. Tie the tail into a bun. I like to twist the two sides together, then wrap the twist around the hair-tie and fasten with a second hair-tie, but your preferred method will work too! 

5. If you’re worried about it sliding off, bobby pin the scarf behind your ears and under the bun.
   

The Grace Kelly (Square)

Note: While Grace Kelly’s silk scarves are iconic, I find that silky scarves still slip a lot with this style. When I use a cotton scarf, it stays in place perfectly.

1. Fold your scarf diagonally to make a triangle. Lay the long side across your head.

2. Wrap one end over the other and pull it through.

3. Pull both ends around to the back of your neck and knot them.

4. You can either pull the point of the triangle out over the knot (like a snood), make the knot into a more fashionable bow, or tuck the three ends under your collar.

The Rosie (Square)

1. Fold your scarf diagonally to make a triangle. Lay the point of the wide angle a little ways back from your hairline/forehead.

2. Bring the other two points to the top of your head–over the wide point–making sure to keep the scarf smooth and flat.

3. The ends into a tight knot, then tuck the tails under the edge of the scarf. Secure them to your hair with bobby pins, which shouldn’t be visible under the scarf.

The Trendsetter (Rectangular)

1. Put the middle of the scarf in front of your neck, wrapping the tails around the back and to the opposite side.

2. Tuck each end through the front loop of the scarf. 

3. Pull the back part of the loop up and over your head

The Cottagecore (Make your own!)

1. Watch this quick and easy tutorial! This style works nicely because the ties are hidden under your hair, and they are easier to pin in place because they’re so thin.

2. Additionally, a simple triangle scarf (that is, NOT a square folded in half) also seems to stay in place very well. 

1. Cut a triangle roughly 35”x14” with a hypotenuse of 22”. Roll the edges in once and sew to make your hem! 
   

There you have it: six methods for effectively covering your head in church! Did I miss any styles? Let us know!

Why We (Actually) Homeschool

by Mindi Popovich-Schneider, Saint Emmelia Ministries Assistant

A few months ago, I wrote about common homeschooling myths. Now, I want to talk about the homeschooling reality, specifically, why we really homeschool. 

It’s true that there are a lot of negative reasons–that is, things that we are trying to get away from–but all too often, the positive reasons get overlooked. And that is really a travesty, because these positives are the heart and soul of homeschooling. We’re not running away from other people, diverse opinions, or behaviors that we dislike; we’re actually running towards something. So, here are some positive reasons why we homeschool:

• To spend time together: Because we believe that each child is a beautiful being created by God, we genuinely want to spend time with our children and enjoy the things that make them them. We believe that God granted us children as the most important work of our lives. Accordingly, we want to embrace this work as fully as we can, and we can only do that when we are deeply involved in their educations.

• To transmit a belief system: This is a myth that does have a kernel of truth in it; it’s just become distorted and popularized as a desire to indoctrinate our kids. In the Garden of Eden, God did not create mindless automatons, but rather reasoning beings who could choose to love Him and know Him. He gave them a solid foundation–clear, explicit rules–and free will to do with that foundation what they would. Just so, we do not want our children to be mindless automatons who never question or think for themselves, but we do want to give them a firm foundation that they may rest upon when it is time for them to exercise their free will. So we keep them protected in a nurturing environment until the foundation is laid and the time for choice has come. 

• To let kids be kids: In the time that it takes to carefully and intentionally lay a strong foundation for our kids, they get to be kids. All too often, the world forces children to grow up quickly in order to keep up with their peers, whether through inappropriate media, bullying, or other developmentally-unsafe behaviors. Homeschooled kids are allowed to mature and develop at their own pace–not an arrested pace, but simply the timing that is natural to who they are as individual beings. Children can play pretend in the backyard as long as it captures their imagination, or they can start reading Shakespeare the moment his beautiful words catch their hearts without being dragged away from either by their peers or teachers.

• To explore anything (and everything): Not only does homeschooling allow children to grow up at their individual pace, but it also allows them to explore different ideas according to their individual interests. When I was a student, I was fascinated by missions work, so my history reading always included biographies of (usually female) missionaries. My husband was enamored of space, so his science reading usually involved at least one book about the cosmos. Now, as adults, I work for a church ministry, and my husband delights in showing our friends’ children how to use the telescope in our living room. Our (wildly different) homeschool educations nurtured these seeds into sweet fruit that we enjoy over and over, in many different ways.

• To make room for wonder: All of this exploration gives homeschool families a unique opportunity to approach discovery with intentionality: to learn deeply what a thing is and to marvel at its “whatness”. Whether it is the lives of the saints, the transcendence of a Divine Liturgy, the mystery of a forest, or the joy of a good book, homeschooling gives us the freedom to see what makes things good, and to thank God for them. In my experience, the grind of public school–its busy schedules, standardized testing, and watered-down curriculum–has no interest in wonder, and it is the worse for it.

Taking these reasons together, I would say that the heart of homeschooling is this: a desire to cultivate Beauty in our children’s lives. In fact, I would argue that because of our relationship with God, it is not so much a desire, but an imperative. Because God is the Creator of Beauty, when we teach our children to love Beautiful things and to seek them out, we are teaching them to listen for the things of God and to marvel at His hand in all of Creation.

So while it’s true that we do want to remove unhealthy things from our kids’ lives–nihilism, ugly words and behavior–what’s more important is that we want to fill their lives with good things. We’re not running away or hiding from anything; rather, we are running joyfully towards the Beauty of our Creator.  

Why does your family homeschool?

Hiding in the Library: A Year in Books

by Mindi Popovich-Schneider, Saint Emmelia Ministries Assistant

When I was growing up, I really, really wanted to be a detective. I spent a lot of time (when I wasn’t reading mysteries) inventing mysteries for myself to solve in our backyard (I always cracked the case!). Now as an adult, I feel like I really am a gumshoe, at least in one respect: I am constantly on the case, hunting for books worth sharing with others! Here, I am going to share the results of my sleuthing over the course of the past year, as well as the books that I’m most looking forward to investigating in 2024! 

Here are my recommended books of 2023:

Picture Books

In the Quiet, Noisy Woods by Michael J. Rosen

Through the rompings of two wolf cubs, the reader explores a day in the woods. The beautiful vocabulary and digital art made me fall in love with this sweet tale.

The Littlest Matryoshka by Corinne Demas Bliss

In this story, a little family of matryoshka dolls go on a long journey. This book reminds me of Jan Brett’s work.

The Night is Deep and Wide by Gillian Sze

This board book is excellent for little eyes, due to its high-contrast illustrations in black, white, and red. The writing makes it a wonderful bedtime selection.

Colors of the National Parks by Jenny Miriam

Another board book, this choice is very simple with minimal text. However, the illustrations are beautiful, and it would be a nice choice for a Nature Study unit on the flora and fauna of North America.

Non-Fiction

The Life and Teachings of St. Seraphim of Sarov by N. Puretzki 

St. Seraphim has always been special to me because of his love for wild animals. Reading about his relationships with others has inspired me to work on my patience and love for everyone I meet (not just bears!). 

Strange New World by Carl Trueman

Although Trueman is Presbyterian–and his reformed theology certainly comes through in the text!–I believe this book is a very important read. Trueman outlines the rise of the phenomenon of “expressive individualism,” our tendency to locate our understanding of the world within ourselves, not within the context of community. This book has helped me identify my own expressive individualist tendencies, which has helped me work on turning my focus outward, towards God and, by extension, those around me. 

Classics

My Ántonia by Willa Cather

This book was on my “to be read” list for a long time, and I’m so glad I finally picked it up. The narrator, Jim Burden, recounts his childhood on the plains of Nebraska and particularly his relationship with the oldest daughter of a family of immigrants from Bohemia. American Literature has never been my wheelhouse, but I enjoyed the vivid depictions of frontier life.  

Peril at End House by Agatha Christie

While not the only Agatha Christie I read this year,  I chose to include Peril at End House on this list because the ending really caught me by surprise! In this mystery, Hercule Poirot (with the help of his trusty sidekick Hastings) races the clock to prevent the death of a young heiress.

Christmas with Anne by L.M. Montgomery (Re-read)

This collection of short stories was the perfect lead-in to Christmas week. Each story focuses on charity, generosity, and forgiveness at Christmastime, but I am certainly inspired to carry those virtues with me through the whole year.

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder (Re-read)

My family reread this book series religiously when I was growing up, but it was delightful to reread the first entry as an adult (and accidental Ingalls apologist–but that’s a story for another time). What excited me most about rereading it was imagining how it could be used in homeschooling, not only for Literature, but for Nature Studies as well!

Adult Fiction

Wonderland Creek by Lynn Austin

After Alice’s boyfriend throws her over for being too obsessed with her books, she travels to Appalachia to deliver books to a rural library there. But, of course, she gets a lot more than she bargained for! Alice is a really delightful character, and it was fun to watch her grow up while maintaining her deep (and relatable) love for books. This book (published by a Protestant company) is suitable for teens.

Young Adult Fiction

East by Edith Patou

I will (almost) always pick up any retelling of “East of the Sun, West of the Moon” (or any of its folkloric descendants), and this one is a modern classic. It follows the original storyline closely, but with a few new motifs and plot twists to keep the reader interested.

The Silent Unseen by Amanda McCrina 

At the end of WWII in Eastern Europe, Maria–a Polish teen escaping forced labor in Germany–has to team up with Tomek–a Ukrainian Nationalist–to find her missing brother. This book is a recommendation, but with a caveat: it involves a fair (but realistic) amount of violence and unsavory language. I still recommend it for older teens because the gripping plotline uncovers a little-discussed piece of Orthodox-adjacent history. 

Since having a baby, my book selection process is quickly checking out whatever I find most easily on Hoopla, Libby, or CloudLibrary so that I can read while nursing! In 2024, I hope to be more intentional about my selections and finally check off some classics and nonfiction that I’ve been wanting to read for a long time. Here are the books I’m most excited to read:

Non-Fiction

The Joy to Serve by Mat. Juliana Schmemann

The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis

Mere Motherhood by Cindy Rollins

Beatrix Potter: A Life in Nature by Linda Lear

Adult Fiction/Classics

Christy by Catherine Marshall (Re-read)

Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens (Already started)

Far From the Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy (Already started)

Young Adult & Children’s Fiction

Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson (NOTE: I am not sure how “clean” this book is, but Brandon Sanderson, a Mormon, is known for his fairly safe writing.)

The Book of Dragons by E. Nesbit

There you have it: my 2023 in books! I hope you pick up some of these titles, and if you do, I hope you’ll let me know what you think. 

What were your best books of 2023? What books do you have on your list for 2024?
For personalized book recommendations, email Mindi at office@saintemmelia.com

"The Unfading Rose:" Raising Families with a Healthy Relationship to God, Nature, and Dirt

Saint Emmelia Ministries is pleased to give our support to this initiative, born out of our Saint Macrina Lecture on Homesteading.

“The Unfading Rose” is a discussion group for Orthodox Christians interested in homesteading, farming, grappling with technology, and the Benedict Option, who are aspiring to rediscover a balanced life centered on sacraments and nature. 

by Ave Maria Farm

What would it look like to raise our families in a life centered on sacramental worship, classical values, art, leisure, agriculture, and the natural rhythms of the earth?

How can we successfully balance our faith and goals with modern entertainment, screens, artificial intelligence, and technologies?

What ancient wisdom can our Church offer us today in our age of over-stimulation, frenzied rush, and rapidly declining morals?

Is it realistic and possible to rediscover authentic leisure and community in our anti-culture society?

What are practical ways to maintain a homestead, unplug from worldliness, and get off the grid?

These and similar questions will be the theme of our monthly meetings. Our hope is that these open discussions generate thought and ideas in an increasingly confusing world. Few generations have faced such challenges in discerning how to be “in the world, not of the world,” and to follow St. Paul’s injunction: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). Nevertheless, the Holy Spirit continues to preserve the faithful and we are hope-filled that, together, we can walk in Christ’s light. 

Fr. Peter Kavanaugh is the priest at St. Benedict Orthodox Church, and started the Ave Maria Farm in northern Texas. He began farming while living at the Holy Monastery of St. Dionysius in Litohoro, Greece, and has ever since pursued his passion to work the soil. Together, he, his wife and four children, and the local community are cultivating a life at their farm, with a small herd of cattle, sheep, goats, chickens, rabbits, and Bonita, the family donkey. They have also built a quaint chapel and three tiny homes on the farm to provide a wholesome living experience for young adults enjoying either a gap year or studying at college, or for those just along for the adventure who want to start their adult life on a solid foundation, experience community, and learn basic farming skills.

We have chosen to call this project the “Unfading Rose.” This has a double meaning. First, it honors and seeks the protection of the Most Holy Theotokos, Mother of Life. Second, it recalls the heart and the beauty of the lifestyle in harmony with Church and Nature. This life, regardless of the times in which we live, never wilts and nor loses its sweet fragrance. May God lead us! 

Join in the dialogue! Register here: bit.ly/unfadingrose