Discerning the Signs of the Times: The Vision of Elisabeth Behr-Sigel

by Elisabeth Behr-Sigel, Sarah E. Hinlicky (Editor)

This compilation of articles offers insight into the life and thought of a French Orthodox woman who has been dubbed the 'grand-mother' of western Orthodoxy. Glimpses of her personal life are augmented by her zeal and love for the Orthodox Church. She was a participant in theological circles which included Metropolitan Evlogy, Frs Sergius Bulgakov and Lev Gillet, Mother Maria Skobtsova, Vladimir Lossky, Nikolai Berdiaev and Paul Evdokimov. The theme of her life, and her articles included here, centers upon the Christian soul confronting modernity. Her message, whether about ecumenism, the self-emptying path of Christ, or the place of women in the Church, is one of sobornost, the communion of souls. She envisions the winds of Pentecost blowing across the ancient Church as it discerns the will of God in these times.

Genres: Theology, Nonfiction, Christianity, Church

148 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Kristofer Carlson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the way Elisabeth Behr-Sigel presents issues. She has her point of view, as we all do, but she simply presents the evidence and then leaves the ultimate judgement up to the church. She expects the church will ultimately do the right thing, understands that it may not happen in her lifetime, and accepts it. The combination of intellectual rigor, moral authority, and humility is extremely rare.