Blog

Reflections on the word of God, sermons and spiritual guidance.

Why Is Christmas Celebrated on December 25?

Why is Christmas celebrated and why on December 25? We explain the origin of the date, the January 6–7 of other traditions and Christmas vs New Year.

The Armenian Church: History and Traditions of the Apostolic Faith

The brief history of the Armenian Apostolic tradition, its distinctive features and its presence in Istanbul and Kadıköy, from an independent guide's viewpoint.

What Is Lent? Fasting in Christianity

Lent is the season of preparation before Easter, marked by prayer, repentance, fasting, and charity. Practices vary across church traditions, but the aim is spiritual ren...

The Psalms: A Three-Thousand-Year-Old Prayer Book

150 poems, three thousand years old: laments, hymns, thanksgiving. We look at the Psalms as a reading experience — their genres and where to begin.

The Historic Churches of Istanbul: Sanctuaries That Witnessed Centuries

From St. George to St. Anthony, the Iron Church to Kadıköy: an independent tour of Istanbul's most historic churches, with brief background and architectural notes.

Differences Between Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant

The Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant traditions: a short history, common ground and visible differences. A neutral comparison that advocates none.

Greek Orthodox Church: History and Traditions

A clear and respectful overview of the Greek Orthodox Church, covering its roots, the 1054 split, the Patriarchate in Istanbul, and its worship traditions.

A Glossary of Church Terms: Core Concepts from A to Z

Service, baptism, icon, liturgy, congregation, patriarchate, basilica, fresco and more: a short, neutral glossary of core church terms.