Two New Books by Prof. Ilya Grits Reach Israel

Prof. Grits, founder of the Heritage College and a respected scholar of the Old Testament, was also a member of the Vicariate of St. James. Throughout his life, he devoted himself to helping Christians discover the richness and beauty of Sacred Scripture.

Reflecting on his vocation, he once said:

I can never say that I teach the Old Testament. I do not think any thoughtful person can say that. The Word of God is living; it speaks directly to the human heart. The only thing I have the right to do is to share my joy of encountering the infinite Word.

Over the years, Prof. Grits spoke in churches, seminaries, and educational institutions representing nearly every Christian tradition. His lectures and workshops reached audiences across Russia, Ukraine, Europe, and the United States. Thousands of students discovered through him that the Old Testament is not a difficult and distant text to be feared, but a living encounter with God to be loved and explored.

Those who attended his lectures often recall that they were never conventional academic presentations. Rather than merely transmitting information, he invited his listeners into a dialogue with Scripture. Many people testified that these encounters transformed not only their understanding of the Bible but also their relationship with the Lord and, in some cases, even their daily lives.

The two newly published books were prepared after Prof. Grits's death and are based on lectures delivered in different places and at different times throughout his ministry. Former and current students painstakingly transcribed numerous audio recordings, while a team of editors worked to transform his spoken words into written form. Their goal was not only to preserve the content but also his warm, personal style and his unique invitation to dialogue with the Word of God.

Whether they have succeeded is for readers to decide. Yet it is our hope that these volumes will continue Prof. Grits's mission by helping new generations engage more deeply with Sacred Scripture.

The books are published in Russian. Members of the Vicariate and all interested readers are invited to discover these valuable texts, share their reflections, and perhaps find in their pages a renewed encounter with the living Word of God.

Copies of the books may be purchased through the Jerusalem Community or by contacting Fr. Roman Savluk.

May these publications become a blessing for all who seek to deepen their faith and grow in their relationship with the Lord through His Word.