Dear colleagues.

   We are pleased to present the latest issue of our journal. In the individual studies the authors present their findings in the fields of history, theology, exegesis and patrology. First study analyses the Christological hermeneutics of the image in the Horos of the Synod of Hiereia in light of patristic sources and Byzantine-Slavic reception. It examines how the iconoclastic rejection of the image arose from apophatic Christology and how the Second Council of Nicaea reinterpreted these principles into a positive theology of representation. The author of second article answers on question of how a person can regain their original state is answered unequivocally in the Orthodox spiritual tradition: return is only possible through repentance.Author of next study looks at modern archaeology as a scientific discipline that confirmed the Bible is not only a mythological literature of antiquity, but also a historical source that also helped to uncover the cities of antiquity. Biblical cities.The authors of fourth article seeks to examine and describe the manner and system of catechizing catechumens in the Church during the period from the second to the fifth century. Numerous inconsistencies, as well as the frequent establishment of independent catechetical schools, led to a decline in catechesis, especially in the fourth and fifth centuries. The next study discusses contemporary life in society through the lens of the biblical verse Exodus 20:14, "Thou shalt not commit adultery (fornication)." Contemporary society has undergone significant liberalization. Extramarital relationships and unions are tolerated, and in some cases even behavior that was previously considered pathological and undesirable. Author of following article explores Saint Basil the Great’s exegesis of the opening verses of the Gospel according to John, with particular attention to the concept of the Beginning (ἀρχῇ) of the Divine Word (Logos). The study highlights Basil’s use of the John’s phrase πρὸς τὸν Θεόν (pros ton Theon) to articulate the relational and personal orientation of the Son toward the Father, thereby affirming the Son’s distinct hypostasis while maintaining consubstantiality with the Father. The last study brings together the spiritual experience of the Church as well as the author's personal experience with understanding the revealed love of God. The content is an expression of the essence and principle of the active love of the Holy Trinity.

   We believe that the studies in this issue will enrich your intellectual perspectives with new knowledge and use in your creative scientific and academic work.

  Pavol Kochan (editor)

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