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  from Homily 39, “On the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ,” by St. Philaret of Chernigov When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the Man were a Galilean (Luke 23:6). Pilate had no doubt of Jesus’ innocence.  But at the same time, not only did personal advantage mean far more to him than Divine truth, but his own personal peace and quiet was dearer to him than people’s rights.  He was happy to grab onto anything, if only to cease his struggle with the Sanhedrin over the truth.  “Is He a Galilean?” asked Pilate, … [Read more...]

from Homily 37 “On the Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ,” by St. Philaret of Chernigov My listeners!  Behold what can happen even to the best person!  Peter, who had listened to the instructions of the Lord for so long; Peter, who had taught himself piety before the Lord’s face for so long; Peter, of unspoiled life, who was ready for every good work, whose piety was not merely outward – fell.  Neither the education of a mind enlightened by the truths of heavenly wisdom nor sufficient experience in spiritual life could save Peter from a … [Read more...]