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Welcome!

Throughout the history of The Church the dwelling place of Christians has been seen as a microcosm of The Church. In traditionally Orthodox countries practices developed which sanctified home life, fostered participation in the Liturgical cycle of the year, and educated the faithful who observed these practices in the teachings and faith of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.

Whether or not your household is two parents and a mess of kids, a married couple, a single parent, empty-nesters, or a group of roommates, I hope this website helps you explore the rich liturgical life of the Domestic Church. I pray that you can find simple guides to help you begin to live out your Orthodoxy in the place you spend most of your time!

Russian, Serb, Greek, Arab - no matter the original ethnicity, Orthodox believers in America should feel free to adopt practices rooted in Orthodox Culture whatever their heritage might be - it is not "cultural appropriation." There are even some practices here Western converts have adapted from old Christian practices in their ancestral lands!

So jump in, and may the Lord have mercy on all our little Holy Houses.

"Marriage is more than human. It is a 'microbasileia,' a miniature kingdom which is the little house of the Lord."

St. Clement of Alexandria

A Word About Beginning,

It’s going to feel awkward the first time you lead your family in prayer, or the first time you invite friends to celebrate a patronal feast. Doing something new always feels a little strange, and in these cases it can feel like we’re trying to be someone we’re not. “Pretending to be holy.” Don’t listen to that voice. When the first time you gather together in the evening to pray goes horribly, just try again tomorrow. Keep going. Soon it will feel second nature to ‘tuck in the day’ with prayers together, to keep track of the fasts in your head and reach for the vegetarian options, or to remember to hold on to your change and donate it. Our Lord, our Panagia, and all the saints are cheering you on, and the community of The Church is here to help. Keep at it, keep at it, keep at it! Start small, with one new tradition or just starting family prayer, and move up to more as you grow!

"Marriage is more than human. It is a 'microbasileia,' a miniature kingdom which is the little house of the Lord."

A Word About Beginning,

For This Holy House...

This website was designed and put together for a project by a Seminarian at St. Vladimir's Seminary. If I have used a photo I shouldn't have, or linked to something unorthodox, please let me know.