September Updates
Here’s the September edition of my newsletter… (if you’re interested in receiving occasional newsletters and updates, please sign up at the bottom of the page.)
The Latest News
Elissa Bjeletich Davis | September 2024
As Summer abates and we enter my favorite month of the year, it’s time to check in with some updates. I’m putting the finishing touches on a new book, chairing a great conference, and looking forward a few promising speaking engagements. Maybe I’ll see you around?
The Art of Myrrhbearing
Scheduled for release after Pascha 2025, The Art of Myrrhbearing is an exploration of the myrrhbearing women themselves and their journey as recorded in the Scriptures, as well as a consideration of how myrrhbearing works. Ultimately, myrrhbearing becomes a way of talking about how we make love incarnate, serving one another as we serve Christ. The book takes us on a journey through the lives of various Saints throughout history, and I hope, calling us to action in our own lives today. Stay tuned for announcements as the release draws near!
20 Years of YES Conference
November 8-10, Austin, Texas
Youth Equipped to Serve is one of the most beautiful expressions of Orthodoxy I’ve encountered, and I’m proud to have served on its Advisory Board for several years. The mission is simple but incredibly important: YES creates formative opportunities that equip participants to serve each person as the image of Christ. Whether the participant is 16 or 66, whatever their background or situation, YES is an opportunity to enter into a mindset of radical love and service, developing eyes to see the Kingdom all around us and to find Christ in every person we encounter.
This year, we celebrate twenty years of love, beauty, and real investment in young people. YES has evolved and changed to respond to the shifting needs of young people (and truly, of all people). From YES trips to online gatherings, internships and parish experiences, these have been amazing and full years, and we are all so excited about the next 20 years.
Our theme is Overcoming the Obstacles to Service, and I’ll be giving a workshop, speaking alongside Fr. Michael Nasser and Jason Catenese. We’ll be joined by Katrina Bitar and Steven Christoforou. Join us! Click here to register.
(Hear more about YES and the conference on Everyday Orthodox, in my conversation with YES Director Wadeed Fakhoury!)
Pray the Psalter with us!
Nativity Lent
Once again, you are invited to join us as we pray the Psalter for the Nativity Lent. From November 15 to December 24, we will pray the Psalms every day, and we’ll pray for one another.
A Trio of Podcasts
Ancient Faith Radio
I have three active podcasts on Ancient Faith Radio. Light Streams In is my most personal offering. Everyday Orthodox is a live weekly interview with interesting Orthodox people from every walk of life. Tending the Garden of Our Hearts offers stories and lessons for families to consider together.
Women of St. Haralambos
On October 12, I will be speaking to the women of St. Haralmbos in Niles, Illinois. I’m delighted to be back in this warm and wonderful parish -- and if you’re in the area, maybe I’ll see you there.
