A Saint of Faith and Action - Liturgical Year in Memory of St. Edwin Caudill

By M. Derosiers

ROME-RUTHENIA 3 December 2023 (NRom)

The beginning of Advent marks the start of a new liturgical year. This period is dedicated to reflecting on and preparing for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. In addition, for this particular year in the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, it is also dedicated to honoring Saint Edwin Caudill, Apostolic Founder and Confessor.

The principal icon of Saint Edwin Caudill
in the Chapel of St. George

Advent is a key season observed in the Christian Church as a time of expectant waiting and preparation. In the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, it begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, which falls around late November or early December. It serves as a time for self-reflection and renewal, allowing individuals to focus on their relationship with God and prepare their hearts to receive Christ into their lives. Then, perhaps unique to the United Roman-Ruthenian Church, Christmas is celebrated twice. The first instance is "the Latin Christmas," on 25 December, and the second is on 7 January and is "the Eastern Christmas."

Art commissioned by the United Roman-Ruthenian
Church of the consecration of Saint Edwin in
Orthodox and Old Catholic Apostolic succession

Saint Edwin Caudill was and is an influential figure in the Church's history as Apostolic Founder and Confessor. He devoted his life to spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ and establishing strong foundations for our faith community. His unwavering commitment to sharing God's love touched countless lives and continues to inspire us today.

Saint Edwin was Anglican Bishop of the Southwest. His diocese eventually entered Orthodoxy and Old Catholicism and in time became the Diocese of Rome-Ruthenia, the Apostolic See of the United Roman-Ruthenian Church today. (Learn more here.)

Saint Edwin dedicated himself to studying theology and deepening his understanding of the scriptures and traditions of the Church. His passion for sharing God's message drew people from all walks of life to embrace the faith. Saint Edwin Caudill's legacy lives on through the countless believers who have been touched by his teachings. His emphasis on love, compassion, and forgiveness continues to shape our understanding of what it means to live a Christ-centered life.

H.H. Bishop Rutherford at
Saint Edwin's former Cathedral

During this Year of Saint Edwin Caudill, we are encouraged to delve deeper into his lasting legacy. By preserving his memory, we can gain insights into how to navigate the challenges of our time, drawing inspiration from his unwavering faith.

By dedicating this liturgical year to Saint Edwin Caudill, we honor not only his contributions but also acknowledge the importance of embracing our faith heritage as we prepare for the coming of Christ during Advent. The Advent season allows believers to reflect on their relationship with God and prepare their hearts for the celebration of the birth of Christ. Let us embrace this time of anticipation and spiritual growth, drawing inspiration from Saint Edwin Caudill's legacy as we prepare to renew our faith once again.