Talk 2: The Truth About Death and Dying
The Church’s teaching regarding death and the afterlife is something everyone should know. Simple observation however, demonstrates that most people, including Orthodox Christians, are not familiar with this essential teaching. Since we will all face death, the question naturally arises: why is there such ignorance and neglect in a matter concerning the eternal salvation of our souls? God desires that all come to the knowledge of the truth and thereby attain salvation. The desire of the demons, however, is to keep us ignorant in order to prevent our salvation, for our salvation is hateful and agonising to them.
Some of the topics included in this talk are: ecumenism beyond the grave; should Christians fear death? is all contact with the spiritual world evil? is the Church repressive? the difference between natural, divine, and demonic apparitions and dreams; can the reposed make contact with the living? the importance of our Guardian Angel before and after death; the toll-houses; unrepented sins after death; the importance of commemorating the dead; the importance of being close to a monastery; can good deeds help us after death? self-condemnation and the ascetic life; why do some people die a violent death? the pain of soul at the hour of death; the Church’s prayers before and after the departure of the soul; why don’t some bodies decompose? the appearance of demons at the time of death; reciting the Creed at the time of death; can the Church release sinners from hell? helping the dead helps us; suicide and the Church; can denying one a funeral and commemoration prayers be beneficial? mental illness in the last times.
Talk Duration: 153 minutes
2 CD set