In this sermon, Fr. Stephen reflects on the meaning of Bridegroom Matins and why Holy Week matters so deeply in Orthodox Christianity. The central theme is spiritual readiness. The Orthodox Church teaches that Christ comes to us as the Bridegroom, and we are called to meet Him with watchfulness, repentance, and love. This sermon explains why the Church places this message at the very beginning of Holy Week.

The sermon focuses on the hymn “Behold, the Bridegroom comes at midnight” and what it means for the spiritual life. It shows that Holy Week is not just about attending beautiful services or feeling religious for a few days. It is about being with Christ as He goes freely toward His Passion. Listeners are reminded that the Gospel calls us to be awake, not distracted, and ready to meet the Lord.

This teaching matters because many peo ...