It's interesting you mention the Oriental Orthodox tradition and Bishop Mari, because the Ethiopian Church is a core part of that same ancient family. The traditions you see here (like the dedicated days and fasting) are often misunderstood. They aren't the goal, but the ancient tools for the real goal: purifying the heart to achieve a direct, mystical union with God or what we call #Theosis (the process of a human being becoming by grace what God is by nature.). The deep, God-centered mysticism you're looking for isn't separate from our faith, it's the very heart of it. The structure is meant to be the path to that exact personal connection. #Orthodoxy #Spirituality Is a Journey towards a #Mystical #union with God through living in #Gospel_teachings, participating in  #Sacraments and #Holy_Traditions of the church. @Orthodoxy_Spirituality