What Is Repentance? — Fr. Nazari Polataiko

In this episode of The Ancient Church: Conversations About Orthodox Christianity, host Polina Leiser speaks with Very Rev. Fr. Nazari Polataiko, rector of the Holy Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Los Angeles, about the meaning of repentance in the Christian life. Together, they explore what true repentance (metanoia) is, how it transforms the heart, and why humility is essential to spiritual growth. The conversation also addresses the practice of confession—what it is, why it is considered a sacrament, and why the Orthodox Church includes confession before a priest. Fr. Nazari offers practical guidance for those seeking to grow in repentance, as well as encouragement for those who struggle or feel that their sins are too great to be forgiven. The episode includes responses to viewer questions, including why Orthodox Christians ask the saints to pray for them and what the purpose of life is according to Orthodox Christianity. Learn more about Holy Virgin Mary Russian Orthodox Cathedral: https://hvmla.org 🎵 Opening music: “Let My Prayer Arise” performed by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, from the album The Powers of Heaven (2005). With permission of harmonia mundi France © 2026. 👉 Submit your questions at https://AncientChurchShow.com 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support the program.