WARNING

NOT EVERYTHING THAT

CALLS ITSELF ORTHODOX IS

TRULY ORTHODOX


The above warning was given to me when I first met Orthodoxy in 1986. Today [2009] it is even more perilous, even more difficult to find the Royal Path. For one thing there is a far greater abundance of misinformation. And many materials are missing, and other materials are being rapidly rewritten. For another thing there are fewer than ever guides remaining on the Royal Path, especially who speak English. Hopefully this website will be a place where Newcomers to the Faith can keep at least one foot on solid ground, while they are "exploring."


blog owner: Joanna Higginbotham

joannahigginbotham@runbox.com

jurisdiction: ROCA under Vladyka Agafangel

who did not submit to the RocorMP union in 2007

DISCLAIMER



January 8, 2017

Optina Elder Ambrose

BOOK REVIEW


Today 2023, this book is still available for a reasonable price.   Platina offers a lot of garbage (false elders and world orthodox) but there are still some books available, like this one,  that you want to have in your home library.


The Christian who studies the Apostolic Scriptures, writings of the Holy Fathers and Ascetics, or texts of the divine services can enter into a spiritual communion outside of time, with the very authors of these writings. . . 

https://startingontheroyalpath.blogspot.com/2023/11/catholicity-and-cooperation-in-church.html








TROPAR
Tone 5

“We run to thee O Ambrose, our Father
 as to a healing spring. 
For thou dost truly instruct us on the path of salvation, 
preserving us from misfortune and calamity by the prayers, 
consoling us in sorrows of body and soul, 
teaching above all by humility, patience and love. 
Pray to Christ, the Lover of mankind, and to our Fervent Intercessor 
that our souls may be saved”.

KONTAKION
Tone 2

“Having fulfilled the precepts of the Shepherd of shepherds, 
thou didst inherit the grace of eldership, 
having pity on all who run to thee with faith. 
Therefore we, thy children, cry out to thee in love: 
Holy Father Ambrose, pray to Christ God that He would save our souls.”



Optina Elders series

I Leonid

II Anthony

III Macarius

IV Ambrose

V Nektary

VI Sabastian

VII Barsanuphius

VIII Anatole

IX Nikon


other Russian elders 

St. Gabriel

St. Zosima

St. Isidore - (Salt of the Earth)