1.Divine Patterns in the Life of Moses
Besides filling in many of the blanks left from Exodus about the life of Moses, the most groundbreaking thing about St. Gregory of Nyssa’s work is its spiritual interpretation in the work of a biography. Here is a great video from Jonathan Pageau showing the symbolism that St. Gregory presents in his work. You can also read the life of Moses for FREE right here.
2. The Life of St. Macrina
Not only did St. Gregory write on the life of the famous biblical figure, Moses, he also is responsible for our knowledge of another great Saint. She is also one without whom St. Gregory would not have been the bishop or Saint he was and is. Gregory’s sister, St. Macrina, lived an incredible life of love, knowledge and service herself even when fewer opportunities were available to women. You can find her story given here for FREE as well.
3. Catholic Word of the Day: prostration
A word that means “lying down” and is the action of lying face down on the ground with hands spread in front or on the side. This is one of the most common prayer positions in all religions, as there are traditions of prostration in Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism, as well as numerous other religions. In Catholicism, it is used as an action in the ordination rite, as deacons and priests will take this position during the ordination ceremony at Mass.
4. Married Priests?
While there is some uncertainty as to the identity of St. Theosebia (was this Gregory’s wife or sister), we are pretty sure St. Gregory was married to a Theopsebia, even if the one that was Gregory’s wife was not the Saint. This means St. Gregory of Nyssa was married, but, also, a priest? Here is a quick answer to the question of married Eastern Rite Catholic priests. Also, here is one that talks about the importance of priestly celibacy.
5. Be considerate of your Eastern Catholic brothers and sisters
St. Gregory of Nyssa was one of the Cappadocian Fathers, placing him in modern-day Turkey. This makes him an Eastern Rite Christian. You might already know that Eastern Rite Christians (Catholic and Orthodox) do some things a little differently. Here are 10 things to consider the next time the Eastern Church comes up in conversation!