By becoming integrated, through communal worship and a shared partaking of the Holy Mysteries, into the larger Body of Christ, we are often times called upon to carry on our shoulders those who are struggling, and just as often to accept our need to be carried, when we are dry as bone and have nothing to give.

Thank goodness for fresh starts and new beginnings. In this New Year, Molly challenges herself and all of us to absorb life with the attitude: Thy Will – Thy Perfect Will Be Done.

What gifts are you bringing to the Savior this Nativity season?

Before you make out your list to read at the table this coming Thursday, think about those things to be thankful for that have contributed to your salvation.

Pre-occupied with your own fears, self-doubt, and petty interests? Nothing that a little tenacious elbow grease won't cure.

It is tempting to make things more complicated than they need to be when we cannot wrap our minds around a Love that's not dependent on our actions or intentions. It requires restraint to ignore our doubts and take Christ at His word.

Do you measure yourelf as an Orthodox Christian by some self imposed checklist to assure that you look the part? Molly has some insight for all of us but especially for mothers.

Our failings and inadequacies don't hold a "candle" to the Holy Flame - Glory to Thee Who Has Shown Us the Light!

We often suffer with our children when they are misunderstood or falsely accused but how is Mary shown to us as the ultimate example of love and compassion through the sufferings of her own Son?

From the pages of the current edition of The Handmaiden, Molly reflects on her patron Saint Anna.