Rev. Hierodeacon Methodios (Pranić), Senior Lecturer in the Department of Liturgics, Sacred Arts, and Music at Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary in Jordanville (NY), and a clergyman of the Diocese of Novi Sad-Bačka in Serbia, participated in the Ninth International Conference of the Society for Oriental Liturgy, held in Washington, DC from May 26-30, 2024. Father Methodios presented his insightful paper, “Temporal Harmony: Integrating Circadian Rhythm, Byzantine Timekeeping, and Eastern Orthodox Monastic Practices.”
In his paper, Father Methodios explored the intricate relationship between circadian rhythms, light and darkness cycles and illumination, Byzantine Timekeeping, and the daily lives of Eastern Orthodox monastics. Drawing from neuroscience, chronobiology, and theology, he highlighted how monastics harmonize their spiritual practices with the natural progression of time. The disciplined schedule of prayer, work, and rest in monastic communities, guided by the principles of Kairos and Chronos, reflects a profound integration of spiritual and temporal realities.
Father Methodios emphasized how the adaptation of prayer schedules to seasonal changes and geographical variations underscores the dynamic nature of monastic life. By aligning their routines with natural light-dark cycles, monastics maintain a balanced rhythm that honors both the quantitative passage of time (Chronos) and the qualitative moments of divine presence (Kairos). Furthermore, he discussed the negative effects of artificial lighting on sleep patterns and circadian rhythms, highlighting the positive impact of natural lighting, such as candlelight, in fostering a sense of harmony with the body’s natural rhythms and enhancing the spiritual atmosphere.
The conference gathered some of the brightest minds in the field of Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox liturgics and liturgical theology from around the world, providing a platform for rich academic exchange and mutual enrichment. The presentation by father Methodios was well-received and underscored the importance of understanding and preserving these ancient practices. Holy Trinity Orthodox Seminary is proud to have father Methodios represent our commitment to academic and spiritual excellence on such an esteemed international platform.
For more information on Father Methodios's work and other recent scholarly activities at the seminary, please visit our website. The full paper can be read at the link below.
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