The Truth of our Faith: Discourses from Holy Scripture on the Tenets of Christian Orthodoxy

by Elder Cleopa of Romania Elder Cleopa of Romania, Fr. Peter Heers (Translator)

An illumined and trustworthy instructor of Christian Truth is hard to find in this age of doctrinal relativity and spiritual insensibility. Thus, when one encounters the wisdom, inspired knowledge of Scripture, and authority with which Elder Cleopa (1912–1998) speaks, it is not hard to distinguish his discerning words from the myriad of opinions bantered about by so many today. As an inheritor of two thousand years of Apostolic Tradition, trained from his youth in the ascetic struggle against the passions, a man of continual prayer and fasting, and possessing an encyclopedic knowledge of Holy Scripture and the Holy Fathers, Elder Cleopa is an exceptionally qualified guide of the Christian Faith. In nearly one thousand references and explanations of Holy Scripture, Elder Cleopa answers the questions of inquirers on such subjects the presuppositions of personal salvation, the study of Holy Scripture, the veneration of icons, relics, the saints and angels, the Virgin-Mary, and the True Cross, the offering of prayer for the dead, the Second Coming of Christ, His thousand year reign, speaking in tongues, and the keeping of the Lord’s feast on Sunday instead of Saturday. Nineteen discourses, a preface by Athonite Abbot Joseph of Xeropotamou, a brief biography of the author, over thirty photos and icons and a scriptural index make this book an ideal introduction to the truth of our Faith for every seeker of Christian Orthodoxy.

Genres: Religion

256 pages, Paperback

Published October 17, 2022

Reviews

[Alex Szurkus · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Truth of Our Faith Vol. 1" by Elder Cleopa of Romania is a remarkable overview of Orthodox theology, particularly in its contrasts with Western Christianity and Protestantism. This book is particularly valuable for those raised in Western Christian or Protestant traditions, as it focuses on scriptural exegesis, not only addressing controversially interpreted biblical texts but also presenting the specific Orthodox polemical interpretations of those verses. Elder Cleopa’s comprehensive and applicable citations enhance the depth of his arguments, while his rhetoric remains charitable and grounded in Christian love, making this an effective and enlightening resource for understanding Orthodox perspectives.

[John Mackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book would be pretty good for a inquirier, someone that is new to Orthodoxy or someone that is curious and wants to learn. It covers a lot of belief that makes it distinct from other Christian denominations.
However I expected there to be at least one chapter dealing with secular thought/atheism. But there was nothing that really touched on it. Overall a decent read but not a entertaining one. Which was expected. This book is not telling a story it seeks to explain belief and the position of the Church on various subjects.

[Paul Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Explanation of tenants of the Orthodox faith set in a question and answer format between enquirers and Elder Cleopa. He can explain a complex topic by simple stories and examples which really help you to understand and remember concepts.

Elder Cleopa writes is such a useful way and makes the book a joy and breeze to read.
Many modern questions and doubts are raised and answered which I really found useful.

[Sara Judice · Rating 3 out of 5]

At a time in my life when reading is difficult while raising 2 kids under 5, I enjoyed the easy-to-read Q & A style dialogue. This book, though not a comprehensive peek into Christian Eastern Orthodoxy, offers good insight for those inquiring of the faith.

[Curtis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Q&A style and provides a great introduction to the faith once delivered and the One Body of Christ! Can't wait to volume 2