Churchly Joy: Orthodox Devotions for the Church Year

Sergius Bulgakov is best known for producing a series of controversial volumes on Trinitarian theology. These are characterised by both an elaborate deployment of speculative theological formulations and intense spiritual passion. In this volume of orations he writes in a more straightforward manner, but still with his trademark 'mystical lyricism', as one commenter has described his style. Churchly Joy is a collection of sermons delivered by Bulgakov on key Orthodox feast days, during his time as Dean of the St Sergius Theological Institute in Paris. He dwells largely on the existential themes of each festival, evoking the inner response of the believer. This is complemented by reflections on the depth of theological meaning found in the works of Christ and the Holy Spirit. At times he deploys simple symbolic explanations, at others technical Trinitarian expositions. The orations are tied together by Bulgakov's profound vision of the transfiguration of creation by the Triune God, as proclaimed and lived by the Church. This would be a helpful book for preachers looking for inspiration for their sermons on special days of the church calendar, or for anyone who desires a deeper devotional understanding of the inner meaning of the New Testament narrative.