The Arena Homily | The Christian Spirit - Sunday of Orthodoxy 2026
Apr 1, 2026
A defense of icons and why veneration is not idolatry. Practical tips for reverent approach and the icon as a window to heaven. Threefold kissing with lips, heart, and will to deepen love and imitation. The liturgy’s path from penitence to joy and the Christian paradox of joyful sorrow in growing holiness.
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Why Sunday Of Orthodoxy Defends Icons
- The Sunday of Orthodoxy commemorates those who defended icons and refuted the claim that veneration equals idolatry.
- Fr. Josiah emphasizes the church abolished idolatry and venerates icons as a legitimate window to heaven, not idol worship.
How To Venerate Icons Properly
- Kiss icons with reverence using lips as an outward act, approaching deliberately and not casually passing by.
- Fr. Josiah gives practical steps: stop, bow properly, kiss a hand or feet rather than the face to show respect.
St Seraphim's Vision At An Icon
- Fr. Josiah recounts young St. Seraphim standing three hours before Christ's icon because Christ walked out and communed with him.
- The story illustrates the icon as a two-way encounter where the depicted person may speak back.