What is Martyrdom?

Fr. Chris Metropulos

Are you willing to die for your faith? Do you know what it means to be a martyr? Fr. Chris brings these questions to Dr. James Skedros, Dean of Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology, Cantonis Professor of Byzantine Studies and Professor of Early Christianity, for insight into the ways Orthodoxy has understood martyrdom throughout Christian history.

Dr. Skedros explains how the word martyrdom was understood in the early church, what it means today​, and he discusses canonization in connection to death in defense of the faith. Listen a moment to this timely and interesting interview.

But before that, we have Mark Powell from Cappella Romana, a professional vocal ensemble that performs early and contemporary sacred classical music. If you are living in the Oregon-Washington area, you’ve probably already seen them perform. Their newest album, “Good Friday in Jerusalem,” is on sale via Amazon. More information can be found on their website, www.capellaromana.org​

This program is produced in partnership with OCN

The Orthodox Christian Network produces a wide variety of multimedia resources for Orthodox Christians and seekers in three languages: English, Greek, and Spanish. It is an agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States. Founded nearly 20 years ago as a radio ministry, it continues to produce “Come Receive the Light,” a weekly radio show, and has expanded into a variety of online offerings: a weekly video newscast, a variety of podcasts, three Internet radio stations, a website and a very popular social media presence, especially on Facebook. OCN strives to work in collaboration with all Orthodox organizations and churches to communicate the message of God’s love in Jesus Christ and to strengthen the Orthodox Church in the digital age.