Eastern Orthodox Christian sermons on the Sunday Readings, Feasts and other Scriptures

Sundays after Pentecost

Sunday of Pentecost

Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

2000
Also in Format: Word DOC

Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

2001
Also in Format: Word DOC

Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

By Fr David Moser
2002

Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

2004
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Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

2008-06-16
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Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

2009-06-07
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Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

2010-05-23

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

Exegesis Of Pentecost Vespers Parables
Numbers 11-16-17-24-29, Joel 2-23-32, Ezekiel 36-24-28
2011-06-11

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

Ministry Of The Holy Spirit
O Heavenly King
2011-06-12

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

I Will Give You A New Heart And Put A New Spirit Within You
Learning To Discern Between The Old And New Ways
Acts 21-11, Ezekiel 36-24-28
2012-06-03

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

I Will Give You A New Heart And Put A New Spirit Within You
Learning To Discern Between The Old And New Ways
Acts 21-11, Ezekiel 36-24-28 (1)
2012-06-03
SYNOPSIS:The readings for Divine Liturgy on Pentecost give the story of Pentecost and our Lord #39;s prophesy of it. The "take home" for Pentecost is from one of the Vespers readings: "I will give you a new heart, and put a new spirit within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and will give you a heart of flesh." (Ezekiel 36:26) We can know a lot about Pentecost, but if we do not learn how to discern the old ways, which the heart falls into frequently, from the new ways, we will have learned nothing useful for our salvation. We look into how to learn to discern what is in our hearts, whether it be according to the old, or according to the new. The Holy Spirit will not continue to abide in a heart that does not seek after the new ways. We contrast new and old ways and discuss how to develop the skill to discern between them. This is a critically important subject. This homily is a bit longer than normal, but it is important, and it is difficult to discuss important things, and important skills in 12-15 minutes.

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

If Any Man Thirst Let Him Come Unto Me And Drink
How To Cultivate Thirst
John 7-37-52-8-12
2013-06-23

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

O That All People Might Prophesy And That The Lord Would Give Them His Spirit
I Will Give You A New Heart
2014-06-09

Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)

Exegesis On The Holy Spirit
How To Listen To Your Heart
2015-05-31
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Children's sermon: The Pentecost Icon, King Kosmos, Symbols of the Holy Spirit (mp3 format)

Pentecost
2016
SYNOPSIS:Sermon to children with a detailed explanation of who King Kosmas is, and a "spirited" discussion and questions and answers with the children about the Pentecost icon. Why is St Paul in the Pentecost icon? Why is there FIRE in the icon? Symbols of the Holy Spirit.

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

Pentecost Ikon Holy Spirit Symbols
Childrens Sermon
2016

Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)

Thirst
O Heavenly King
John 7-37
2016

"O Heavenly King" explained, and about prayer in the heart. (mp3 format)

Pentecost
2017-06-04
SYNOPSIS:"O Heavenly King" is explained in detail, with an aim to teach us how to pray with our hearts. Also, the Jewish and Christian feasts of Pentecost discussed, and the ministry of the Holy Spirit, which is necessary for us to fulfil the Christian law. A short rule of prayer and prayer for others will help us, if we try, to develop prayer with our heart.

O Heavenly King, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, Who art everywhere present and fillest all things, Treasury of good things and Giver of life: Come and dwell in us, and cleanse us of all impurity, and save our souls, O Good One.

The purpose of the sending of the Holy Spirit. Survey of Scripture read on Pentecost. (mp3 format)

Acts 2:1-11 John 7:37-52: 8:12 Joel 2:23-32
2018-05-27
SYNOPSIS:Fr Methodius is a priest at St Barnabas Mission in Kenya, Africa (http://orthodoxmissionkenya.org/). He was with us on Pentecost and gave a homily which is a sweeping survey of the Scriptures that are read on the feast and teaches us the purpose of the coming of the Holy Spirit and many other things.

The promise of Pascha is fulfilled because of Pentecost. (mp3 format)

Numbers 11:16-17,24-29 : Joel 2:23-32 : Ezekiel 36:24-28 : John 20:19-23 : Acts 2:1-11 : John 7:37-52:8:12
2019-06-16
SYNOPSIS:The Christian life, and salvation, is impossible without the Holy Spirit abiding in us. This is what we celebrate on Pentecost, and all of the readings for the feast teach us not only about the ministry of the Holy Spirit, but also how we must live. We do short survey of the readings from Vespers, Matins and the liturgy.

By the Holy Spirit, we put on Christ and become perfected human beings in the likeness of God. (Word DOC format)

2020-06-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Because of the Holy Spirit, we are able to put on Christ and after baptism begin the process become perfected human being in the likeness of God. This is the primary reason for celebrating the giving of the Holy Spirit to Christians. Until that time, how do we live spiritually in such times as pandemics and civil unrest, protests, anger and violence which have occurred after the death of George Floyd? The Christian answer is not political.

I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. (mp3 format)

Numbers 11:16-17, 24-29 Joel 2:23-32 Ezekiel 36:24-28
2021-06-20
SYNOPSIS:The event of Pentecost is described in the reading from Acts today, the promise of Pentecost in the Gospel, and the result of Pentecost in the three selections from the Old Testament that were read in the Vespers service. We will concentrate on those, which promised that we will never be left alone, everything broken in our soul will be healed and restored to perfection, and that our stony heart will become heart of flesh.

1st Sunday after Pentecost

1st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Sunday Of All Saints
2000
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1st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Sunday Of All Saints
2003

1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Sunday Of All Saints
2004

1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-06-22

1st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2009-06-14
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2010-05-30

1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Celebrating Sanctity
How To Become A Saint
Hebrews 11-33-12-2,Matthew 10-32-33,37-38,19-27-30
2011-06-19

1st Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)

Exegesis Of Sunday Of All Saints Vespers Parables
Isaiah 43-9-14,Wisdom-3-1-9,Wisdom-5-15-6-3
2011-06-19
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1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Sunday Of All Saints
How To Become A Saint
Matthew 10-32-33,37-38,19-27-30,Hebrews 11-33-12-2
2012-06-10

1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

All Saints
Through Faith With Patience
Heb 11-33-12-1
2015

"Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? " A question we all must be able to ask. (mp3 format)

Sunday of All Saints
Matthew 19:27
2016
SYNOPSIS:We are all called to be saints, therefore, we should be able to say what Peter said, without being a liar: "Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?" What does this mean? Can we say this? What must we do to be able to say this? Full disclosure: he text selected was actually read on the Sunday of All Saints, and accidently used again on the Sunday of All Saints of Russia, the following Sunday. Mistakes happen, but the sermon still applies to saints, and therefore, to us, since we are called to be saints.

What is confession of Christ in our sin-loving and sin-excusing world? (mp3 format)

Sunday of All Saints
Confession Of Christ
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38
2016-06-26
SYNOPSIS:What is a synaxis of All Saints, and why do we celebrate them the Sunday after Pentecost? It is rare to be a saint, but we are all called to be saints! How are we going to become saints, even though we have sins, some of which we cannot overcome? This starts with how we identify ourselves and the things we, in our heart of hearts, really value. In our modern, sin loving and excusing age, we must take a stand for who we are. This is true confession. In this context, we examine the verses read today: "Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven. 37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me."

1st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Many That Are First Shall Be Last And The Last Shall Be First
2017
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What is a saint and how do you become a saint? (Word DOC format)

Hebrews 12:1-2 Matthew 10:32-33
2019-06-24
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SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday of All Saints appropriate to talk about what is a saint, how the saints relate to us, and how to become a saint. We look especially at Hebrews which talks about the great cloud of witnesses, and also in the gospel about the confession we must make before men. Putting these things together we see the life of the saints and how to join that life.

Sunday of All Saints. Because of the Holy Spirit, we are all called to be saints. (Word DOC format)

Sunday of All Saints
Romans 12:1-2
2020-06-14
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SYNOPSIS:Why do we celebrate all of the saints the Sunday after Pentecost? It is because the gift of the Holy Spirit makes everyone capable of becoming a saint. There is only one thing that can keep us from becoming a saint. Let us learn the lay aside every weight of sin, even if only a little bit at a time and we will become saints.

All Saints. What we must do to be in the great cloud of witnesses. (mp3 format)

Matthew 10:32 : Hebrews 11:33-34 : Hebrews 12:1
2021-06-27
SYNOPSIS:On All-Saints Sunday, we explain why it is appropriate to commemorate all the saints the Sunday after Pentecost and also why we begin fasting on the next day. It’s all about becoming saint: to be part of the great cloud of witnesses. The Scriptures for the day tell us how to become saints. We must know deeply in our heart that out of weakness we are made strong and we must run the race with patience and must know what it means to confess Jesus Christ before men (it’s not something you just do with your lips or even your actions). During our explanation we discussed the actions of some modern hierarchs which are a case study and not running the race with patience or confessing Jesus Christ before men. May God deliver us and them from a secular way of living!

2nd Sunday after Pentecost

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

All Saints Of Russia
1999
Also in Format: Word DOC

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

All Saints Of Russia
2000

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2001
Also in Format: Word DOC

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2003

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-06-29

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2009-06-21
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2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

All Saints Of Russia
3 Necessary Things
2010-06-06

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

A Good Beginning
Matthew 4-18-23
2011-06-26

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Follow Me And I Will Make You Fishers Of Men
Matthew 4-18-23-Matthew 4-25-5-12
2012-06-17

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Everything Is Spiritual
Follow Me And I Will Make You Fishers Of Men
Matthew 4-18-23
2013-07-07

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Beatititudes
Christian Meaning Of Poverty Of Spirit And Mourning
Matthew 4-25-5-12
2014-06-22

2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Beatitudes
Blessed Are The Peacemakers
Mat-4-25-5-12
2015

A practical look at the beatitudes, which describe the saints and those trying to be saints. (Word DOC format)

2019-06-30
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SYNOPSIS:A look at what the saints are like, and what we should do to be like them. By looking at the first 4 Beatitudes from St. Matthew (" Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.") in a very practical way. There are things we all can do to fulfill these Beatitudes, and if we do them a little bit, and even not so well, God will help us and we will become saints. The key is to try, even if we are not very good at it!

The Saints achieved profound peace in an unpeaceful world. (RTF format)

Matthww 4:25-5:12
2020-06-21
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:This Sunday we are celebrating All Saints of Russia as we always do on the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost. The end of the troparion says: "By their prayers keep the Church and the world in profound peace." Russia and the world are not peaceful and never have been. What is this peace that we are asking for? It is the same peace that it is in the heart of every saint. We look at the first two Beatitudes (poverty of spirit and mourning) to see how to achieve this peace in the midst of the world that is ever becoming less peaceful.

How to solve the greatest problem in the world. (mp3 format)

Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2021-07-04
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday of All Saints of Russia we ask the question: "what is the greatest problem in the world today?" Some might answer that it is the pandemic and the vaccine, politics, the environment, immorality, etc. None of these is the greatest problem. All the saints teach how to solve the greatest problem, and we talk about two essential aspects of the solution: faith, and patience.

3rd Sunday after Pentecost

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2002
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3rd Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2003

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-07-06

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2009-06-28
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3rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Answer All The Questions
2010-06-13
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3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

How To Discern Light And Darkness In The Eye Of The Soul
Matthew 6-22-33
2011-07-03

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Seek Ye First The Kingdom Of God And His Righteousness
As We Think So We Are
Matthew 6-22-33
2012-06-24

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Light Of The Body Is The Eye
Unbridled Desire Causes Anxiety
Matthew 6-22-33
2013-07-14

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Meaning Of Life
Is Not The Life More Than Meat And The Body Than Raiment
Matthew 6-22-33
2014-06-29

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Timothy Of Esphigmenou
New Martyrs Of The Turkish Yoke
2015

The eye, desire, anxiety & peace. Matthew 6:22-33 (mp3 format)

Matthew-6:22-33 Romans 5:1
2016
SYNOPSIS:The problem of anxiety and the cure for it. There is a link between bad desires, and weak faith and anxiety. Exposition of Matthew 6:22-33 and Romans 5:1, particularly: "The light of the body is the eye", "seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you" and "being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ" As in any short talk, all solutions are not discussed. There is an organic cause for anxiety, but no more common cause for it is a problem with the "eyes"

3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

New Martyrs Turkish Yoke
2017

"If thine eye be whole, thy heart will be settled in peace." (RTF format)

Matthew 6:22 : Luke 21:14
2020-06-28
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SYNOPSIS:In this Third Sunday after Pentecost when we also celebrate the New Martyrs of the Turkish yoke, the Gospels, although they are from Matthew and Luke, are very much connected. We describe our greatest problem, that which brings us the most dissatisfaction and unhappiness in the world and how these Gospels describe how we can have a heart that is settled, always at peace.

Holy New Martyrs of the Turkish Yoke. How do we imitate them and be settled in our hearts the matter what persecutions arise? (mp3 format)

Luke 21:12-19 : Romans 5:1-10
2021-07-11

4th Sunday after Pentecost

4th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2002
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4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2003

4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2008-07-14
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4th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2009-07-05
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4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Freedom And Slavery
2010-06-20
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4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Being Then Made Free From Sin Ye Became The Servants Of Righteousness
Freedom And Slavery Explained By Paul And The Centurion
Romans 6-18-23-Matthew 8-5-13
2011-07-10

4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Faith Of The Centurion
Matthew 8-5-13
2012-03-30

4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Being Then Made Free From Sin Ye Became The Servants Of Righteousness
Romans 6-18-23
2012-07-01

4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Centurions Servant
Character Matters
Matthew 8-5-13, Romans 6-18-23
2014-07-06

4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Healing Of Centurions Servant
Obedience
Mat 8-5-13
2015
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Freedom and slavery, and the Centurion. (mp3 format)

Romans 6:18-23 Matthew 8:5-13
2018-06-24
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle today tells us about slavery - to sin, and slavery to righteousness - which is true freedom. We compare the two kinds of slavery, and the perfection of freedom to righteousness, as shown by the centurion who asked the Lord to heal his servant.

Being made free from sin, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. (mp3 format)

Romans 6:18-23
2019-07-14
SYNOPSIS:St. Paul teaches us how to think about sin and holiness. If we do not think correctly, we cannot live correctly. He gives us two ways to think about sin and holiness. The first is after the manner of men, but it is still extremely useful. The second is the highest way. We discuss both of these ways. It is notable that St. Paul’s instruction regarding sin and righteousness is in the chapter where he also describes baptism

Freedom to not sin vs slavery, and righteousness obtained from experience. (Word DOC format)

Romans 6:18-23 Matthew 8:5-13
2020-07-05
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:On the 4th Sunday after Pentecost, we explain the meaning of the words of St Paul: "Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness". These words define the ***only*** problem of human life, the solution, and the promise. Furthermore, the words of the centurion, whose servant was sick tell us the way to obtain this freedom, in which we are no longer compelled to sin, and can ***easily*** be righteous. It is from experience and activity, with the grace of God helping us.

Experience and the Centurion will teach us: "Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness." (mp3 format)

2021-07-18
SYNOPSIS:We talk about the centurion, a man who knew how to give and obey commands and because of his experience in living righteously, had faith that was commended by Jesus Christ. By experience we will learn what it means to be free from sin and a slave to righteousness. This change occurs in the heart and is the perfect freedom of which Christ speaks of when He says: "In that day ye shall be free indeed." The freedom of the world is slavery in slavery to righteousness is freedom. We will learn this by experience.

5th Sunday after Pentecost

5th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2002
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5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-07-20

5th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2009-07-12
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Gergesenes Demoniacs
2010-06-27

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

What Have We To Do With Thee, Jesus, Thou Son Of God And Who Shall Separate Us From The Love Of Christ
Questions That Must Be Answered
Matthew 8-28-9-1,Romans 8-28-39
2011-07-17

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Gergesenes Demoniac
What Have We To Do With Thee Jesus Thou Son Of God
Matthew 8-28-9-1
2012-07-08

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

What Have We To Do With Thee Jesus Thou Son Of God
That They Might Have My Joy Fulfilled In Themselves
Matthew 8-28-9-1
2013-07-28

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

When They Saw Him They Besought Him That He Would Depart Out Of Their Coasts
Everything Is An Encounter With Christ
Matthew 8-28-9-1
2014-07-13

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Word Is Nigh Thee Even In Thy Mouth And In Thy Heart
Rom 8-8
2015

"They being ignorant of God's righteousness... have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." A man cannot live righteously according to *his own* truth. (mp3 format)

S
Romans 10:1-10 Matthew 8:28-9:1
2018-07-01
SYNOPSIS:In our day, many sins, opinions, and lifestyle choices being described is "living your own truth". It is quite impossible for man to be his own truth, as only Jesus Christ is the truth. The readings for today show the results when a man tries to live according to his own truth. The people of the Gergesenes rejected the Light, and St. Paul's description of such people sounds very modern and contemporary: "For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God."

"The word is nigh thee even in thy mouth." (mp3 format)

Romans 10:1-10, Matthew 8:28-9:1
2019-07-21
SYNOPSIS:Three rhetorical questions are asked in today’s readings that we must strive to answer.
"Who will ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down from above) "
"Who will descend into the abyss? (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead) "
"What have we to do with you, Jesus, you Son of God? "
. Paul’s answer to these rhetorical questions is that we must live an intimate life with God, so that "The word is nigh thee even in thy mouth. " He points out the insufficiency of the law for salvation. Only Jesus saves, not any rule of life. To come to salvation requires struggle, and a daily effort to rid ourselves of the distraction and spiritual blindness of sin, which keeps us from realizing the intimate presence of God in our hearts.

Always *be* answering the question! What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? (mp3 format)

Gergesenes
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2021-07-25
SYNOPSIS:When the Gergesene demoniacs encountered Jesus they asked him: "What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?" Grammatically, this is a rhetorical question but there are no rhetorical questions for we who are Christians and read the Scriptures; we must answer all of them! The entirety of our Christian life should be a constant answering of this question. We discuss the power of demons and how they afflict us, and the things we must do to properly answer this question. We also discussed the one thing we should be afraid of; it is not the demons.

5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

matthew8-28-9-1
SYNOPSIS:5th Sunday after Pentecost

6th Sunday after Pentecost

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2009-07-19

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Paralytic
A Promise And Rebuke Regarding Faith
2010-07-04

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Remission Of Sins Of The Paralytic And Woman Who Was A Sinner
Matthew 9-1-8,Luke 7-36-50
2011-07-24

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Let Love Be Without Dissimulation
A Reason For All The Rules
Romans 12-6-14
2012-07-14

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

They Brought To Him A Man Sick Of The Palsy
Bear Ye One Anothers Burdens And So Fulfil The Law Of Christ
Matthew 9-1-8
2013-08-04

Grace,mercy, do's & dont's, and becoming vessels of grace. (mp3 format)

Romans 12:6-14
2017-07-16
SYNOPSIS:Christianity is to live in a moral way. It is not dogmas or principles in the abstract. It is very practical. We talk about do's and don’ts, legalism, grace and mercy, and making ourselves vessels of grace, and a line by line exegesis of Paul's "do's". Since this is during the 40 days for my son +Daniel (https://www.orthodox.net//daniel), there are also very personal examples of how God visits with grace, but we must react to this grace.

How do we give with simplicity, and love without hypocrisy? The Apostle Paul and the parable about the two debtors explains. (mp3 format)

Romans 16:6-14 Luke 7:36-50
2018-07-08
SYNOPSIS:The parable (two men owed a debt to their Lord, one 500, and another 50, and he was gracious to both) told by Jesus to explain the simple love and devotion of the sinful woman who anointed His feet helps explain how we can give with simplicity, show mercy with cheerfulness, and love without hypocrisy, all of which are commands of the Apostle Paul in Romans 12:6-14. There is another "technique" given by the Apostle, to help us to fulfil his commands: put spiritual things first, especially prayer.

6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Be-Of-Good-Cheer, Increasing-Faith-Matthew 9-1-8
2019
SYNOPSIS:6th Sunday after Pentecost

Be of good cheer! Increasing our faith. (mp3 format)

Be Of Good Cheer
Increasing Faith
Matthew 9:1-8
2019-07-28
SYNOPSIS:The discourse of the Lord before He healed the paralytic teaches us many things in order to have more faith.

Healing of the Paralytic - a parable that reveals our purpose and destiny. (Word DOC format)

Matthew 9:1-8
2020-07-19
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the paralytic is a true story, however it can also be thought of as a parable that reveals the purpose of our life and how to achieve it. There were three healings in the story, one from sin and another from paralysis, and another that enables us to obtain our purpose, which is much deeper and beautiful than just fighting sin. In this homily, in the end, we read a letter from a prisoner which illustrates the great beauty our purpose.

St Paul tells us: What are we going to do about the challenges and dangers of our age? (mp3 format)

Romans 12:6-14
2021-08-01
SYNOPSIS:I’ve been asked many times by many people regarding the chaotic world that we live in, with rumors and pandemics and mandates and pronouncements and hatred and cancel culture and threats of ecological disasters and even the words of hierarchs which disappoint us: What are we going to do? The epistle from Paul for the Sixth Sunday after Pentecost tells us exactly what we should do. It is what we should have done yesterday and should also do today and tomorrow. We discuss several of his exhortations and why obeying him will help us deal with our anxieties and everything that comes into our path.

7th Sunday after Pentecost

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-08-03

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2009-07-26

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Romans 15-1-7
2010-07-11

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We Then That Are Strong Ought To Bear The Infirmities Of The Weak And Not To Please Ourselves
Romans 15-1-7
2012-07-21

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

According To Your Faith Be It Unto You
Matthew 9-27-35
2012-07-22

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

According To Your Faith Be It Unto You
We Then That Are Strong Ought To Bear The Infirmities Of The Weak
Romans 15-1-7-Matthew 9-27-35
2013-08-11

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We Then That Are Strong Ought To Bear The Infirmities Of The Weak And Not To Please Ourselves
Romans 15-1-7
2014-07-27

We are blind men, following the God of patience and consolation. (mp3 format)

Romans 15:1-7, Matthew 9:27-35
2016-08-07
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel and Epistle (Romans 15:1-7, Matthew 9:27-35) have a golden link today. First a riddle to solve: "What do you ask for and do not obtain, and because you do not obtain, you are given what you ask for?" The Gospel tells us that two blind men *followed* Jesus crying out for mercy. After a long time, they were healed. We blind people also must follow the Lord, and the prayer of Paul become true for us: "Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: 6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." We talk about following the Lord, and belief, and patience, and, especially, patience and consolation. What, plainly is consolation, and how do we obtain it? Consolation is one thing only, and there is one way only to obtain it.

Healing of the 2 Blind Men. What increases our faith? (mp3 format)

Matthew 9:27-35
2017-07-23
SYNOPSIS:We must understand the basic meaning of Scripture to apply it to our lives. We do an exegesis of the entire selection from Matthew describing the healing of the two blind men who called after Jesus and the reaction of the Pharisees, concentrating on the heroic actions of the men, the prayer they said, and the difference between the OT priesthood and the priesthood of the High Priest - Jesus Christ, and then apply it to our lives, particularly how we should pray and how we can increase our faith.

What is faith, what is it based on, and how do we increase it? St. Paul teaches us. (Adobe PDF format)

Romans 15:1-7
2019
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel reading the Sunday, Jesus told the paralytic that he was healed "according to his faith ". What is faith? What is it based on? How do we increase it? The answers are in St. Paul’s epistle today.

What is faith, what is it based on, and how do we increase it? St. Paul teaches us. (Adobe PDF format)

Two kinds of eyes, and of possession, and 2 sides of faith which is expressed with 2 kinds of action (mp3 format)

2 Kinds Eyes Possession Faith Action
Romans 15:1-7 Matthew 9:27-35
2020
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the two blind men, and of the man struck dumb by a demon, combined with teaching of the Apostle Paul about the strong bearing the infirmities of the weak all teaches how to live with faith in a practical and a spiritual way.

7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2021

8th Sunday after Pentecost

8th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Feeding The 5000 And St Elijah
1998
Also in Format: Word DOC

8th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2002

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-08-10

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Feeding The Five Thousand,prophet Elijah
You Give Them To Eat
2009-08-01

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Feeding Of The 5000
2010-07-18

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Feeding Of The Five Thousand
Simple Truth And Layers Of Truth Compassion Trust Giving Thanks Apostolic Church
Matthew
2011-08-07

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

They Need Not Depart Give Ye Them To Eat
Matthew 14-14-22
2012-07-29

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Feeding Of The Five Thousand
Give Ye Them To Eat
Matthew 14-14-22
2013-08-18

8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Feeding Of The Five Thousand
Give Ye Them To Eat
Matthew 14-14-22
2014-08-03

How to give five loaves and two fish to everyone (mp3 format)

Martyr Marina
Matthew 14:14-22 : Luke 7:36-50
2017-07-30
SYNOPSIS:We must give what we have. We all have at least 5 loaves and two fish. We must have open, and soft hearts and see the people who need something, and give them what we have. The Lord will make things multiply. A practical, moral look at the Miracle of the feeding of the 5000, and the actions of the woman who was a "sinner"

"Give ye them to eat". The great privilege of participating in and facilitating the grace of God. (mp3 format)

Give Ye Them To Eat
3 Examples To Follow
Matthew 14:14-22
2019-08-11
SYNOPSIS:We have an enormous gift and privilege: to be able to participate in and to facilitate the grace of God. We look at the feeding of the 5000 and the command of the Lord Jesus Christ to his disciples that they feed the multitude in this context. Herein lies the key to triumphal Christian living.

Christians do not complain that life is not fair. New Martyr Lidia, the Prophet Elias, & the Feeding of the 5000. (mp3 format)

Matthew 14:14-22 Luke 4:23-30
2020-08-03

9th Sunday after Pentecost

9th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Walking On The Water
1998

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We are labourers together with God
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
1corinthians3-9-17
SYNOPSIS:9th Sunday after Pentecost

9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2001

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2008-08-17
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Walking On The Water
2009-08-09
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We Are Labourers Together With God
1 Corinthians 3-9-17
2010-07-25

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

When The Disciples Saw Him Walking On The Sea They Were Troubled Saying It Is A Spirit And They Cried Out For Fear
Matthew 14-22-34
2012-08-05

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Ye Are Labourers Together With God
Know Ye Not That Ye Are The Temple Of God And That The Spirit Of God Dwelleth In You
1 Corinthians 3-9-17
2013-08-25

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Jesus Walks On The Water
Matthew 14-22-34
2014-08-09

9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Ye Are Gods Husbandry Ye Are Gods Building
Christian Marriage And Family Life
1 Corinthians 3-9-17
2014-08-10

"Wherefore didst thou doubt?" The relationship between doubt and labor. (mp3 format)

Matthew 14:22-34-1 : Corinthians 3:9-17
2016-08-22
SYNOPSIS:Every question in the scripture is meant to be answered. There are no rhetorical questions in the scripture. Here is a question from the Gospel today which we will answer: We answer this question partly by confessing that few believe wholly in the resurrection, and few are obey the words of the Apostle: "For we are laborers together with God: ye are God's husbandry". We discuss the various kinds of doubt (they are legion) and of labor.

We are labourers together with God. This is the Christian way. It is the only way. (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2017-08-06
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Epistle for today, from 1 Corinthians 3:9-17 with particular emphasis on the application of the Apostle's words: "... We are labourers together with God" and the practical meaning of "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." and the true meaning (which differs from the commonly accepted understanding) of " If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire." We cannot be Christians, or be saved, unless we labor together.

We all need encouragement. On being co-laborers and temples. (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2020-08-09
SYNOPSIS:We all need encouragement, and we also need to be reminded of what our duties are. St. Paul’s epistle today accomplishes both of these tasks. We explore the deep spiritual meaning and comfort of the apostle’s words: "For we are laborers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building" and "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?"

We are laborers together with God. (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2021-08-22
SYNOPSIS:In the midst of troubles, sometimes we forget how precious and beautiful our lives are and how we have the greatest privilege in the universe! Despite our sins and weaknesses and troubles, God allows and even commands that we would be laborers together with him. This means everything! The apostle Paul teaches us but this means and how we should build on the foundation which we have been given through baptism and grace. Many are wondering what we should do from day to day because troubles continue to arise. Here is the answer! It is always been the answer. We are to be laborers together with God and build on the foundation we have been given with precious things.

10th Sunday after Pentecost

10th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1997-08-26

10th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1998-08-25

10th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2000

10th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Lunatic Son
2002

10th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2008-08-24
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:10th Sunday after Pentecost

10th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Demoniac Son
Fasting
2009-08-16
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

10th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2010-08-01
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

10th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Demoniac Son
A Very Common Question And The 2 Ways To Understand The Answer
Matthew 17-14-23
2011-08-21

10th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

_2012-08-11+-being-defamed-we-intreat-wherefore-i-beseech-you-be-ye-followers-of-me_1corinthians4-9-16 Being Defamed We Intreat Wherefore I Beseech You Be Ye Followers Of Me
1 Corinthians 4-9-16
2012-08-11

10th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

This Kind Goeth Not Out But By Prayer And Fasting
Matthew 17-14-23
2012-08-12

10th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Why Could Not We Cast Him Out
Because Of Your Unbelief For Verily I Say Unto You If Ye Have Faith As A Grain Of Mustard Seed
Matthew 17-14-23
2013-09-01

10th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Being Creators Christian Parenthood
I Have Begotten You Through The Gospel Be Ye Followers Of Me
1 Corinthians 4-9-16
2014-08-17

10th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Why Could Not We Cast Him Out
Works Increase Faith
Mat 17-14-23
2015

The exorcism of the lunatic son teaches us how to believe, with action, prayer and fasting. (Adobe PDF format)

Matthew 17:14-23
2019-08-25
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:When the disciples asked the Lord why they could not cast out the demon from the lunatic boy, he answered it was because of their unbelief. But as is always the case, He answered with much more than that fact. He taught us how to have belief. It is through action which is based on our faith, and prayer and fasting.

Nothing shall be impossible regarding literal or metaphorical demons, with prayer and fasting. He did not say: everything will be easy! (mp3 format)

Matthew 17:14-23
2021-08-29
SYNOPSIS:After Jesus healed the demoniac boy with merely a word, his disciples were confused, and He explained to them that nothing would be impossible for them, with prayer and fasting. He then immediately told them that He was going to be killed. It is always this way in the Christian life, and perhaps to us it seems even more so in our chaotic times when people are acting more and more insane. With faith, and struggle, nothing is impossible, but many times, things are very hard.

11th Sunday after Pentecost

11th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Unmerciful Debtor Mat 18 23 35
1998
Also in Format: Word DOC

11th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2000

11th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
2002

11th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-08-31

11th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
2009-08-23
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:11th Sunday after Pentecost

11th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
2010-08-08
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

11th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Have Patience With Me And I Will Pay Thee All
Matthew 18-23-35
2013-09-08

11th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
Golden Rule Restated Do Unto Others As You Would Have God Do Unto You
Matthew 18-23-35
2014-08-24

11th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Unmerciful Debtor
Self Knowledge
Mat 18-23-35
2015

Parable of the Unmerciful Debtor, repetition and the Transfiguration (mp3 format)

Parable of the Unmerciful debtor.
Transfiguration
Matthew 18:23-35
2017-08-20
SYNOPSIS:Subtle repetition in the story about the Unmerciful Debtor. The meaning of prison and the selling of his wife and children. The great (and common among men) sin of the debtor. More to the point, WHY do we do good to others? We give the best answer - not about commandment’s, or rules, or rewards or punishments. The Transfiguration, celebrated the day before, helps us to form the answer.

Parable of the Unmerciful debtor. Why forgive? Because of the Incarnation! (mp3 format)

Matthew 18:23-35
2019-09-01
SYNOPSIS:A homily by Priest Nicholas Park about the Parable of the Unmerciful debtor. He explains the purpose of the Incarnation, which is also the reason why we must forgive! 2019-09-01 Matthew 14:22-34

The way of Salvation described by the Parable of the Unmerciful Debtor. (mp3 format)

Matthew 18:23-35
2020-08-23
SYNOPSIS:We look more deeply at the inner spiritual meaning of the Parable of the Unmerciful Debtor. Everyone knows the story, and the stern admonition at the end of it; the Lord tells us that if we do not forgive, we will not be forgiven. The reason why that admonition is given is because if we receive the love of God in our hearts, we will love and we will forgive. This is obvious and natural. The absence of love and forgiveness of others is a sign that the heart has not received the love of God experienced Him. This is not a matter of: we *must* do certain works such as love and forgive others; it is a matter of our hearts being changed by the love of God so that we naturally will love and forgive. Whether or not the heart is changing is the greatest litmus test for whether or not a person is really a Christian. This is not works based religion. This is the way of life.

12th Sunday after Pentecost

12th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

The Rich Young Ruler Mat 19 16 26
1999

12th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2001

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Question Of The Young Rich Man
2002

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-09-07

12th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Rich Young Ruler
2009-08-30
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

12th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Grace And Labor
1 Corinthians 15-1-11
2010-08-15
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Christ Died For Our Sins According To The Scriptures
But By The Grace Of God I Am What I Am
1 Corinthians 15-1-11
2011-09-04

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Young Rich Ruler
Answer Every Question Ask The Right Questions
Matthew 19-16-26
2014-08-31

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Rich Young Ruler
Exegesis And Take Home
Matthew 19-16-26
2015

The best way to learn is to follow an example. The Rich Young Ruler. (mp3 format)

The Rich Young Ruler
Matthew 19:16-26
2017-08-27
SYNOPSIS:The best way to learn is to follow an example. We have many examples - the God-Man Jesus Christ, the saints, and those we respect in this life. We look at the admonition given to the Rich Young Rules in this light. Three examples are discussed - my dad (and BASEBALL!), St Timothy of Esphigmenou, and St Paisios. The point is not really that we must follow certain rules - we must follow Jesus Christ, and all the rules we follow will be because we follow Him. The most important part of the admonition is AT THE END: "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and ***follow me**"

The Rich Young Ruler. We must ask the right questions and know how to answer them. (mp3 format)

Matthew 19:16-26 1Corinthians 15:1-11
2019-09-08
SYNOPSIS:The young ruler who asked Jesus the question: "what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" asked the wrong question. We must know the right questions to ask and how to answer those questions. The most important questions are about our identity and purpose. The Gospel and the Epistle today answer these questions.

12th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Matthew 19:16-26
2020-08-30
SYNOPSIS:The rich young ruler called Jesus Christ good, but he did not know what "good" is. Christians must know who is good and why we should try to do good things. There is a simple reason, misunderstood by most. We also discussed other words that are misunderstood in today’s society, such as suffering and regarding things that are possible or impossible.

13th Sunday after Pentecost

13th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Parable Of The Vineyard
1998
Also in Format: Word DOC

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Vineyard
2002

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-09-15

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Vineyard
2009-09-06

13th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Parable Of The Vineyard
We Must Bear Fruit
2010-08-23
Also in Format: mp3

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Vineyard
Outer And Inner Meaning
Matthew 21-33-42
2012-09-02

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Vineyard
The Stone Which The Builders Rejected
2014-09-07
SYNOPSIS:13th Sunday after Pentecost

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Vineyard
The Stone Which The Builders Rejected
Matthew 21-33-42
2014-09-07

13th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Bearing Fruit Conformed To The Image Of Jesus Christ
Mat 21, 3 3-42
2019

The workers in the vineyard are the only ones who will know what to say. (mp3 format)

Workers In The Vineyard Can Speak
Matthew 21:33-42 Matthew 10:16-22
2020-09-06
SYNOPSIS:Sunday, we commemorated Hieromartyr Maxime Sandovich (+Aug 6, 2014) and read the usual reading for martyr, which has this important promise to those who are persecuted and brought before tribunals: " take no thought how or what ye shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak. " Why will these people know what to speak? It is because they had been workers in the vineyard. The regular Sunday reading was about the parable of the workers of the vineyard, and the regular labor of the Christian in the vineyard is what prepares him for everything. Parable of the Vineyard, Matthew 21:33-42 and " Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves", Matthew 10:16-22

14th Sunday after Pentecost

14th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

1997
Also in Format: Word DOC

14th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

14th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Wedding Feast
2009-09-18

14th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Wedding Feast
It Is Always About Morality
2010-08-29

14th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Wedding Feast
The Wedding Garment Is Christ
Matthew 22-1-14
2011-09-18

14th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Wedding Feast Earnest Of The Spirit
Praying For People During Divine Liturgy
Matthew 22-1-14, 2 Corinthians 1-21
2012-09-09

14th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Wedding Feast
Many Are Called But Few Are Chosen
Matthew 22-1-14
2015

Parable of the Wedding Feast, the wedding garment, and baptism. (mp3 format)

Parable of Wedding Feast
Baptism of Mary
Matthew 22:1-14
2017-09-08
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel reading for today is about the parable of the Wedding feast and the wedding garment, and therefore applies completely to the baptism of Mary today. How do we put on this garment? How do we keep it on, and just as important, how do we keep it clean? What is the outer darkness, the weeping and gnashing of teeth? What is repentance, and how is it related to the wedding garment? Were we made to fear Hell, or long for heaven? How *does* one *long* for heaven?

Parable of the Wedding Feast - it has questions we must answer! (mp3 format)

Parable of the Wedding Feast
Matthew 22:1-14
2018-09-02
SYNOPSIS:An exegesis of the Parable of the Wedding Feast, by Deacon Nicholas Park. There are many questions directed towards US in this parable. Will you answer them?

The Earnest of the Holy Spirit is only in those who wear the wedding garment. (mp3 format)

2 Corinthians 1:21, Matthew 22:1-14
2020-09-13
SYNOPSIS:St Paul tells us that Christians have been "given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts". What is the meaning of this "earnest", how to we obtain it, and how do we keep it? The parable of the wedding feast, read also today, teaches us.

15th Sunday after Pentecost

15th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Sun After Exaltation
2000

15th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

What Is Christianity
Earthen Vessels
2 Corinthians 4-6-15
2002
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Sunday After The Exaltation Of The Holy Cross
2008-09-28

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22-35-46
2010-09-05

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22-35-46
2010-09-05
SYNOPSIS:15th Sunday after Pentecost

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We Have This Treasure In Earthen Vessels That The Excellency Of The Power May Be Of God And Not Of Us
2 Corinthians 4-6-15
2012-09-15

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Be Not Afraid Of Them That Kill The Body
The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22-35-46-Luke 12-2-12
2012-09-16

15th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Greatest Commandment
Image Of God
Matthew 22-35-46
2015

We have this treasure in earthen vessels. (Word DOC format)

2 Corinthians 4:6-15
2018-09-09
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of 2 Corinthians 4:6-15, with emphasis on WHY "We have this treasure in earthen vessels."by Deacon Nicholas Park

16th Sunday after Pentecost

16th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

1997

16th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

The Parable Of The Talents
2000

16th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Five Talents
2002

16th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2corinthians6;1 10
Matthew25;14 30
2007-09-16

16th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-10-05

16th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Parable Of The Talents
Receive Not The Grace Of God In Vain
2 Corinthians 6-1-10,Matthew 25-14-30
2010-09-12
Also in Format: mp3

16th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

We Beseech You Also That Ye Receive Not The Grace Of God In Vain
2 Corinthians 6-1-10
2011-10-02
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

16th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Talents
Bearing Fruit Is Required
Matthew 25-14-30
2012-09-23

17th Sunday after Pentecost

17th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

1997

17th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Sun After Exaltation The Caananite Woman
1999

17th Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)

2001

17th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Cannanite Woman
2002

17th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2003

17th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-10-12

17th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Canaanite Woman
Exactly How To Pray
2010-09-19
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Sow bountifully and abound to every good work (mp3 format)

S
2 Corinthians 9:6-11
2020-10-11
SYNOPSIS:What is the key to having a fulfilled, happy life? Most people in the world don’t know. Most Christians in the world don’t know. St. Paul knows, and he explains it this portion of his epistle to the Corinthians. When we act according to who we are, we are happy. Therefore, person must know himself, and he will know himself if God abides in him. God made man in a specific way for a specific purpose. St. Paul talks about every man living according as the purpose of in his heart, and that is indeed the reason why we sow bountifully and reap bountifully, and abound in every good work. An exegesis of this passage from Corinthians makes it very clear why we do what we do and how beautiful it is. 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

The Golden rule and loving without agenda. (mp3 format)

2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1 Luke 6:31-36
2021-10-17
SYNOPSIS:Everyone knows about the so-called "Golden rule", but very few understand what it really means, and why it is a rule. We talk about this, and how the complete fulfillment of the Golden Rule is the greatest miracle that a Christian can ever witness.
0:00 - 2:28 St Paul the Simple.
2:28 - 3:20 What the Golden rule IS NOT.
3:20 - 5:12 External vs internal laws, the purpose of our life, and a working definition of salvation.
5:12 - 7:13 The Greatest News you will hear today (or any day).
7:13 - 10:21 The *Reason* for the Golden Rule, and love without agenda, and the way to live a victorious life.
10:21 11:47 A Practical Application of the Golden Rule.
11:33 11:47 How do we know we are children of God?
11:33 - 15:46 What does this mean? "Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing;" 2 Corinthians 6:17
11:33 15:46 The Goal of the Spiritual life and the Golden Rule.
15:54 16:12 What to do (and not do) Immediately when you wake up in the morning.
16:12 16:38 Why do prostrations. Can I substitute something else if prostrations are hard?
17:02 17:53 How to get rid of all your troubles.

18th Sunday after Pentecost

18th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

1997

18th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

The Miraculous Draught Of Fish
2000

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The First Great Catch Of Fish
2002

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Sunday After The Exaltation Of The Cross
A Simple Way Of Life
Galations 2:16-20, Mark 8:34-9:1
2007-09-30

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-10-19

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Great Catch Of Fish
The Greatest Miracle Was Not The Fish
Luke 5-1-11
2009-10-11

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The First Great Catch Of Fish
Luke 5-1-11
2010-10-10

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Launch Out Into The Deep
The Jesus Prayer
Luke 5-1-11
2012-10-07

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Internal Laws
He Which Soweth Bountifully Shall Reap Also Bountifully As Ye Would That Men Should Do To You Do Ye Also To Them Likewise
2 Corinthians-9-6-11-Luke 6-31-36
2014-10-12

"Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give...". True Christian stewardship (mp3 format)

2 Corinthians 9:6-11
2016
SYNOPSIS:A simple homily about Christian Stewardship, based on the words of St Paul: "Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. ". We talk about a real life example, the "Our Seva" foundation http://www.ourseva.org), which helps poor and indigent folk in the DFW area. This homily challenges us as to how Christian we really are.

18th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Marriage Prospers If We Sow Boutifully
2 Cor 9-6-11
2017
SYNOPSIS:18th Sunday after Pentecost

Marriage prospers if we sow bountifully. (RTF format)

2 Corinthians 9:6-11
2017-10-08
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Texts on marriage. Sowing bountifully. A necessity of a good, Christian marriage. How marriage enables almsgiving. Practical and theological reasons to "sow bountifully".

Purpose and will and choices and sowing and reaping, fear and anxiety and suffering and weeping. (mp3 format)

2 Corinthians 9:6-11, Luke 7:11-17, John 173:3
2021-10-24
SYNOPSIS:He who sows bountifully, reaps bountifully; he who sows sparingly, reaps sparingly. We are to sow a good and honest heart, and God will drive out all our anxiety.
0:37:- 3:12 - This is the same sermon that I always preach! The only sermon I know.
3:12 - 4:33 and 7:26-7:47 What should we be "sowing"?
4:33 - 7:26 what should we expect to be "reaping"?
7:56 - 11:39 "As every man purposeth in his heart, so let him give." What DOES THIS MEAN?
11:34 - 20:18 - A new parable for our time, how to obtain salvation during our times of fear and anxiety. Also in video:

19th Sunday after Pentecost

19th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

1997

19th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

What Thank Have Ye
1999

19th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Be Merciful
2002

19th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

19th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-10-26

19th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Golden Rule
Ye Shall Be The Children Of The Highest
Luke 631-36
2009-10-18

"Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities!" The POWER of telling the truth about ourselves. (mp3 format)

2 Corinthians 12:9
2019
SYNOPSIS:St Paul tells us: "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." This is counter-intuitive to our Western sensibilities. We have learned to be actors and deceitful even with ourselves. There is POWER in admitting who we are, because an honest and humble man is freed to seek God and become strong.

20th Sunday after Pentecost

20th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Resurrection Of The Son Of The Widow Of Nain
Being In The Way Of Christ
Luke 7-11-16
1996
Also in Format: Word DOC

20th Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)

2002

20th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Resurrection Of The Son Of The Widow Of Nain
2002

20th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

20th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2008-11-02
Also in Format: mp3

20th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2009-10-25

20th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Widow Of Nain
This Is Our Life In Microcosm
Luke 7-11-16
2009-10-25
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

20th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2010-10-24

20th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Widow Of Nain
Oil And Wine
Galatians 6-11-18,Luke 7-11-16
2010-10-24

20th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Resurrection Of The Son Of The Widow Of Nain
Luke 7-11-16
2012-10-21

21st Sunday after Pentecost

21st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Parable Of The Sower
Luke 8-5-15-Galatians 2-16-20
1996-10-14
Also in Format: Word DOC

21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Sower
2002

21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2003

21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-11-09

21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Sower
Having Ears To Hear Is Only Possible If There Is Good Ground
Luke 8-5-15
2009-11-01

21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2010-10-18

21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Christian Justification
Galatians 2-16-20
2010-10-18
Also in Format: mp3

21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Parable Of The Sower
Grace,faith,works
Ephesians 2-4-10,Luke 8-5-15
2010-10-31
Also in Format: mp3

21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

On The Good Ground Are They Which In An Honest And Good Heart Having Heard The Word Keep It And Bring Forth Fruit With Patience
Luke 8-5-15
2012-10-28

I live yet, not I, but Christ liveth in me. Holy Communion (mp3 format)

Galations 2:16-20
2019-11-10
SYNOPSIS:Discussion of the words of the Apostle Paul: "I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God", in the context of the purpose of life, and of the Divine Liturgy, and of Holy Communion

22nd Sunday after Pentecost

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Rich Man And Lazarus
Luke 16-19-31
1996
Also in Format: Word DOC

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
2002

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2003
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)

Rus
2004

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-11-16

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2009-11-08

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
A Important Principle Is Taught
Luke 16-19-31
2009-11-08

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus Summary
Concerning Parables And True Salvation
Luke 16-19-31, Ephesians 2-14-22
2010-11-07

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

God Forbid That I Should Glory Save In The Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ By Whom The World Is Crucified Unto Me And I Unto The World
Galatians 6-11-18
2011-11-13

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
Luke 16-19-31
2012-11-04

Parable of the Rich man & Lazarus. God has blessed you. WHAT are you doing with it? (mp3 format)

Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
Luke 16:19-31
2017-11-05
SYNOPSIS: How are we going to read the Gospels, since they are so hard to understand? They are not always hard. Even in complicated parts, we can understand that are useful to our souls if we read with expectation and desire. An example of something simple is in the Parable of the Rich man and Lazarus, one of the most complex parables in all of the Gospel. We will look at the behavior of the rich man and WHY he was in torments, and the reply of Abraham to the (unnamed) rich man: "Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented."

We are good ground and walk according to this rule, because we are new creatures! (mp3 format)

Galations L 6:11-18 Luke 8:5-15
2018-10-28
SYNOPSIS:This Sunday, we read about the Parable of the Sower and about the "Good Ground", which is the most important part of this parable. How do we become the good ground? The epistle tells us exactly how. It tells us that we should walk according to a "rule", and this rule must be that we bear in our body the marks of the Lord Jesus because we are a new creature. Listen carefully. The apostle is telling us the only way that leads to life. It is a wonderful, difficult, and joyous way.

22nd Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)

Galations 6:11-18
2020-11-08
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:St Paul teaches us HOW to think about ourselves, which completely determines how we live. The Pastoral letter referred to in the homily is at: https://www.orthodox.net//pastoral-letter_2020-11-08.html

23rd Sunday after Pentecost

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Gadarene Demoniac
Luke 8-26-39
1996-10-28
Also in Format: Word DOC

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Gadarene Demoniac
2002

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2004

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Gadarene Demoniac
Ephesians 2:4-10, Luke 8:26-39
2007-11-04

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-11-23

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We Are His Workmanship Created In Christ Jesus Unto Good Works
Ephesians 2-4-10
2012-11-11

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Dead In Sins
By Grace Are Ye Saved Through Faith
Eph 2-4-10
2015

23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Workmanship Created In Christ Jesus Unto Good Works
Eph 2-4-10
2015

Faith and works explained in the Orthodox way. Read and UNDERSTAND the other parts of the passage! (mp3 format)

Ephesians 2:4-10
2017-11-12
SYNOPSIS:There is a controversy about the relationship between "faith and works" in the Western world. This is not so among Orthodox Christians. We explain the relationship between faith and works and grace. This is easy to know, if we live according to the OTHER parts of the passage in Ephesians, besides "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.", such as "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)" and " For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; AND we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works." (mp3 format)

Ephesians 2:4-10
2018-11-04
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of one of the best and poetic descriptions of the process of salvation, and most misinterpreted part of all of Scripture. Let us look at the meaning of being "quickened ... together with Christ", "by grace ye are saved" and the verse misunderstood by millions: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works." If we understand the Incarnation and its purpose, all of this passage will resonate in our hearts, and guide us and give us great joy.

24th Sunday after Pentecost

24th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Healing Of The Woman With An Issue Of Blood And The Raising Of The Daughter Of Jairus
1998
Also in Format: Word DOC

24th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Basil Musin Pushkin
2002

24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Woman With The Issue Blood And The Raising Of Jairus Daughter
2002

24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

My Yoke Is Easy And My Burden Is Light
2007-11-11

24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-11-30

24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

He Hath Broken Down The Middle Wall Of Partition
Having Abolished In His Flesh The Enmity
Ephesians 2-14-22, Luke 8-41-56
2009-11-22

24th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

He Is Our Peace
Ephesians 2-14-22
2010-11-07
Also in Format: mp3

24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Having Abolished In His Flesh The Enmity Even The Law Of Commandments Contained In Ordinances
Ephesians 2-14-22
2011-11-26

24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Raising Of The Daughter Of Jairus
Healing Of The Woman With An Issue Of Blood
Luke 8-41-56
2012-11-18

The healing of the woman with an issue of blood and the daughter of Jairus. A parable showing perfect faith, and how to obtain it. (mp3 format)

Sundays after Pentecost
Luke 8:41-56
2017
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the woman and daughter of Jairus is one of the most remarkable miracles in the Gospels, because it presents us with a parable about healing. It demonstrates perfect faith, and how to obtain it. The woman had perfect faith - this is shown by all of her actions, especially that she touched Jesus. We discuss what touching Jesus is, and Jairus teaches us what we must do to learn this.

25th Sunday after Pentecost

25th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Notes
Walk Worthy Of The Vocation Wherewith Ye Are Called
Ephesians 4-1-6

25th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Luke 10-25-37
1999-11-24
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC

25th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

Rus
2002

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Good Samaritan
2002

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Harvest Of The Rich Man
2002

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Good Samaritan
2003

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Who Is My Neighbor
2004

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-12-07

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Greatest Commandment And Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Two Answers To The Question Who Is My Neighbor
Luke 10-25-37
2009-11-29

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

One Body, One Spirit, One Hope, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism
Descending,then Ascending Fulfills The Gospel
Ephesians 4-1-6
2010-11-14

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Good Samaritan
8th Sunday Of Luke
Luke 10-25-37
2010-11-28

25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Understanding The Greatest Commandment
Luke 10-25-37
2011-11-25

The Good Samaritan: Kindness produces endurance. (mp3 format)

Luke 10:25-37 : Luke 8:50
2017-11-26
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Good Samaritan, interpreted in light of the previous Sunday Gospel - about Jairus. This parable teaches us HOW To obey the hard words of the Lord: "Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole. " The key is, first to understand the parable, which teaches us who our neighbor is, and then to act like the Samaritan: "But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was..."

26th Sunday after Pentecost

26th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Harvest Of A Rich Man
1997
Also in Format: Word DOC

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2003

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Parable Of The Rich Man Whose Ground Brought Forth Plentifully
An Urgent Question We Must Answer; What Shall I Do
Ephesians 5:9-19, Luke 12:16-21
2007-11-25

26th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2008-12-14
Also in Format: mp3

26th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

2009-12-06

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Harvest Of A Rich Man
2009-12-06

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Harvest Of The Rich Man
Luke 12-16-21
2010-12-04

26th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Harvest Of A Rich Man
Plenty Of Time Remembrance Of Death
Luke 12-16-21
2010-12-06
Also in Format: Word DOC

26th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

See Then That Ye Walk Circumspectly Not As Fools But As Wise Redeeming The Time
Ephesians-5-9-19
2011-12-10
Also in Format: mp3

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Harvest Of A Rich Man
What Shall I Do
Luke 12-16-21
2012-12-02

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

He Thought Within Himself What Shall I Do Because I Have No Room Where To Bestow My Fruits
Harvest Of The Rich Man
Luke 12-16-21-Ephesians 2-4-10
2013-12-01

26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

All Things That Are Reproved Are Made Manifest By The Light For Whatsoever Doth Make Manifest Is Light
Ephesians 5-9-19
2013-12-21

":What shall I do?" The question of the rich man is answered by the apostle - make manifest all goodness and righteousness and truth, and in so doing, become light. (Adobe PDF format)

Ephesians 5:9-19 : Luke 12:16-21
2017-12-03
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:What shall I do? That was the question of the rich man who had a great harvest. The Scripture talks about "what we should do" today, in both the Epistle and the Gospel. They mention an incredible gift and incredible privilege. The Apostle Paul especially shows the greatest motivation a man can have for knowing what to do and doing it - that we can become "all goodness and righteousness and truth", and in making manifest these things, become light - that is, be united with God and be perfected.

27th Sunday after Pentecost

27th Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)

The Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
1996-12-06

27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Two Visions Of The Kingdom
Ephesians 6:10-17, Luke 13:10-17
2007-02-11

27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

2008-12-21

27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
2009-12-13

27th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Jesus Christ Came Into The World To Save Sinners
The Reason For The Season
1 Timothy 1-15-17, Luke 13-10-17
2010-12-12
Also in Format: Word DOC

27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Jesus Christ Came Into The World To Save Sinners
What Is Sin
1 Timothy 1-15-17, Luke 13-10-17
2010-12-12

27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of Woman With A Spirit Of Inrimity 18 Years
Love Is The Highest Law
Luke 13-10-17
2012-12-09

27th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

A Woman Which Had A Spirit Of Infirmity Eighteen Years And Was Bowed Together And Could In No Wise Lift Up Herself
Luke 13-10-17
2013-12-08
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

The wiles of the devil and the human condition, and praying for those who are bent over, so that they would rise up. (HTML format)

Luke 13:10-17 Ephesians 6:11
2017-12-10
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the woman who was bent over for 18 years and the Apostle Paul teach us the two causes of sin - the wiles of the devil and the human condition. We should blame these, and not our brother, since we share the infirmities of our brother. If we learn this skill, we will pray with compunction and power for our brother (and ourselves): ":Lord, have mercy on those who are bent over, and help them to rise up"

ow to live in our evil days? Putting on the whole armor of God means living according to the truth that is in you. (RTF format)

Ephesians 6:10-17
2020-12-13
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:We live in evil days, and the things society loudly proclaims as "truth" are lies. How do we know what is truth and what is a lie? And even if we do know, how should we fight off the lies and live according to the truth? St Paul teaches how to do all of this.

28th Sunday after Pentecost

28th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

1997

28th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

What Shall I Do To Inherit Eternal Life
1999

28th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Blind Man Who Cried Jesus Son Of David Have Mercy On Me
The True Meaning Of Lord Have Mercy
Col 1:12-18, Luke 18:35-43
2007-12-09

28th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Partakers Of The Inheritance Of The Saints
Read The Scriptures
Colossians 1-12-18
2010-12-04
Also in Format: mp3

The energy in thankfulness, to the "first born of every creature". Healing of the 10 Lepers. (HTML format)

Healing Of Ten Lepers
First Truth For Man
Colossians 2:12-18 Luke 17:2-19
2017-12-17
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The energy in thankfulness. The greatest personal truth for man and the exegesis of Colossians 1:12-18, and the 3 ways in which Jesus Christ is the "first born of every creature", and then, another unfortunate truth about man, as we examine the healing of the ten Lepers. Which are we - the nine, or the one? How do we make sure we are the one?

28th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Hebrews11 33 12 2
luke18-35-43

29th Sunday after Pentecost

29th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Luke 17:12-19
1996-12-22
Also in Format: Word DOC

29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Healing Of The 10 Lepers
10 Are Cleansed But Only The One With Graditude Is Made Whole
1 Timothy 1:15-17, Luke 17:12-19
2007-12-03

29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Arise,go Thy Way Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole
Luke 17-12-19
2009-12-20

"Thy faith hath made thee whole"; understanding the faith of the leper who was healed. (mp3 format)

Luke 18:18-27
2012-12-23
SYNOPSIS:The response of gratitude of the one leper of the ten who were healed by Jesus prompted our Lord to say to him " thy faith hath made thee whole." This common expression of Jesus must be investigated closely, for in each instance, different aspects of faith are revealed. This Samaritan's faith was expressed in two ways, that he prayed for mercy and he gave thanks for his great gift. Regarding his prayer, we have a detailed interlude to talk about the Jesus prayer and how we should pray it, including praying it for others. Then we link the prayer to thanksgiving, for without the latter, the former withers. As we become aware of how much God's mercy surrounds us and helps us. we thank Him, and seek his mercy even more, for ourselves and others. Our heart becomes softer, and feels the needs of others - our heart becomes like that of Jesus. These two things, seeking God's mercy and thanking him for everything - are required for salvation.

29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

All Things That Are Reproved Are Made Manifest By The Light For Whatsoever Doth Make Manifest Is Light
Ephesians 5-9-19
2013-12-21
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Ephesians 5:9-19. There are moral requirments placed upon a Christian - things he should do and not do. Why? This passage explains. It also, in a mystical way explains the reason for confusion and despondency and similar ailments thay are common in modern man: "All things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light."

29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Gratitude Makes One Whole
Luke 17-12-19
2013-12-22

The only Christian life is that which is lived in the heart. (mp3 format)

1 Timothy 1:15-17 : Luke 18:18-27
2018-12-16
SYNOPSIS:The words of St. Paul to his son Timothy are an example of living in the heart. The actions of the ruler who followed the external commandments but did not know anything besides them are an example of a man who lives outside of his heart. The Christian life has no power whatsoever if it is not lived in the heart. We examine these positive and negative examples about life in the heart. The person living in his heart understands that " Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief", and that He has "shown forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting"and that, in these things, we know everything needful to know how to live, what to think, and who to be in every situation in life.

30th Sunday after Pentecost

30th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

When Christ Who Is Our Life Shall Appear Then Shall Ye Also Appear With Him In Glory
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 18-18-27, Matthew 25-1-13
2013-01-27

30th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Rich Young Ruler
Questions Not To Ask
Luke 18-18-27
2013-12-15

30th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Lackest Thou One Thing Sell All That Thou Hast
Luke 18-18-27
2016

The Rich Young Ruler asked the wrong question! Salvation is becoming good, through the grace of the One Who is Good. (Word DOC format)

Luke 18:18-27
2021-03-31
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The rich young ruler asked Jesus the wrong question! He asked: "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?" He showed that he did not understand what salvation was or how to obtain it. Salvation is not gained by the things we do; it is who we become. It is to become good since God is good, and in becoming good, through the grace of the One who is good, we cast off all sin, and we can know the One who is good. It is a relationship with the only One who is truly good. We were born to be good, and salvation is the experience of a relationship with God. People want exact definitions, but salvation is not a definition; it is a relationship with the One Who is good.

31st Sunday after Pentecost

31st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Question Of The Ruler
The Hard Sayings Of Jesus; It Is Not Really About The Money
Luke 18:18-27
2007-12-23

31st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

This Is A Faithful Saying And Worthy Of All Acceptation That Christ Jesus Came Into The World To Save Sinners Of Whom I Am Chief
1 Timothy 1-15-17
2012-01-28

35th Sunday after Pentecost

35th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)

The Healing Of The Blind Man By The Wayside
Luke 18:35-43
1996

35th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)

The Healing Of The Blind Man By The Wayside
Luke 18:35-43
2000
Also in Format: Word DOC

36th Sunday after Pentecost

36th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Canaanite Woman
A Perfect Example Of How To Pray
Matthew 15:21-28
2008-02-03

36th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

This Is A Faithful Saying And Worthy Of All Acceptation That Christ Jesus Came Into The World To Save Sinners Of Whom I Am Chief
1 Timothy-15-17
2011-01-30

Sundays of Luke

1st Sunday of Luke

The first great catch of fish compared with the second. (mp3 format)

First Great Catch Of Fish Compared With The Second
Luke 5:1-11
2011-10-09
SYNOPSIS:The first Great Catch of Fish began shortly after Jesus met some of His Apostles. The second occured after the resurrection, about 3 and a helf years later. It is very spiritually profitable to compare the two.

1st Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Launch Out Into The Deep
First Great Catch Of Fish And Instructions In How To Live
Luke 5-1-11
2013-10-06

1st Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

First Great Catch Of Fish
Prayer Of The Heart Described
Luke 5-1-11
2014-10-05

1st Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Great Catches Of Fish Compared
Luke 5-1-11
2015

The link between the first and second great catches of fish, and the parable of the leaven. (mp3 format)

Gospel of Luke
Luke 5:1-11 Matthew 13:33
2016-10-09
SYNOPSIS:The two great catches of fish are linked, even though they are separated by over 3 years. Let us look at the first, then connect it to the second, and also weave in the teaching about the parable of the leaven, and understand the significance of the words of Peter: "Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net." We will live to see the second great catch of fish, if we understand and therefore live according to these words.

The first great catch of fish as a parable about life. (mp3 format)

Luke 5-1-11
2018-10-07
SYNOPSIS:The first great catch of fish after which some of the apostles left all and followed the Lord can be understood as a parable about our life. Things in the story have a mystical significance: launching out into the deep, letting down the nets, toiling overnight, doing things by the Word of the Lord, the boat starting to sink and the fish being salvaged by other boats, and Simon Peter seen the Lord and saying "depart from me if I am a sinful man".

The Great Catch of fish: obedience before anything. How to read the bible. (mp3 format)

Luke 5:1-11
2019-10-06
SYNOPSIS:The Great Catch of Fish describes daily temptations that a Christian encounters, if he reads the story spiritually. This is a learned skill, and all one must do to obtain it is read, and pray and struggle to live the Christian life. We discuss several life lessons from this story, including how to deal with doubt, despondency, fatigue, sorrow - anything.

2nd Sunday of Luke

2nd Sunday of Luke (HTML format)

Saint John Of Kronstadt And The Golden Rule And The Purpose Of The Incarnation
Luke 6-31-36
2010-01-02

2nd Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Reason For The Golden Rule
Ye Shall Be The Children Of The Highest For He Is Kind Unto The Unthankful And To The Evil
Luke 6-31-36
2011-10-16

2nd Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Golden Rule
As Your Father Also Is Merciful
Luke 6-31-36
2015-10-18

Practical applications of the Golden Rule (HTML format)

Luke 6:31-36
2016
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Golden Rule. Real incidents commonly encountered in regular life show how easy it is to practice the golden rule and derive great benefit. First, some theology, then the application of that theology. Two principles of the way of life: You should use yourself as a measurement of how other people should be treated, and you are not to expect something in return.

When we follow The Golden Rule, we are choosing the good part and are children of the highest. (mp3 format)

Luke 6:31-36
2018-10-14
SYNOPSIS:In the Feast of the Protection of the Mother of God, the Gospel reading for the Theotokos points to the other Gospel read today - about the Golden Rule. If we follow this rule, we will be choosing the "good part" and be "sons of the highest". Let us look at the Golden Rule in this way - not as an externally imposed law, but an easy way of life that always chooses the "good part".

The Golden Rule and extravagant tales of Christian love. (mp3 format)

Luke 6:31-36
2019-10-12
SYNOPSIS:Why do we follow the "Golden Rule". It is because of love. God loves, and so we, being made in the image of God, in attaining His likeness, love. There are stories of extravagant love in the lives of the saints. We explain why and how we read the lives of the saints, and then tell some of these stories of extravagant love, including events that have happened in our time. Some of the saints mentioned are St Paulinus, St Thomais of Lesvos, St Paisios of Mount Athos & St. Irene Myrtidiotissa.

Why should we follow the Golden rule? It is in accordance with our very nature. (mp3 format)

Children Of God
Luke 6-31-36.
2020-why-follow-the-golden-rule
SYNOPSIS:Everyone knows the "Golden rule", but very few understand the *exact* why we should follow it. As soon as the Lord gives this instruction, He explains the reason why. If we understand this reason is that we are children of the Highest and therefore it is absolutely and exclusively our nature to be merciful as our Father is merciful, we are not far from the kingdom of God, in fact, so very close that we are entering it, on the very threshold. Luke 6:31-36

3rd Sunday of Luke

3rd Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Weep Not And He Came And Touched The Bier And They That Bare Him Stood Still
Luke 7-11-16-Galatians 5-22-6-2
2011-10-23

3rd Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Looking Unto Jesus The Author And Finisher Of Our Faith
He Touched The Bier And They That Bare Him Stood Still
Luke 7-11-16
2013-10-20

3rd Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Widow Of Nain
One In Every Crowd 3 Ways God Communicates With Us
Luke 7-11-16
2014-10-19

3rd Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Weep Not
Young Man I Say Unto Thee Arise
Luke 7-11-16
2015

The Widow of Nain & St Jonah of Manchuria. Jesus touches us; we must touch others. (mp3 format)

The raising of the son of the widow of Nain
St Jonah of Manchuria
Luke 7:11-16
2019-10-20
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel detailing the raising of the son of the widow of Nain and celebration of St. Jonah of Manchuria occurred on the same Sunday. We explain important points of the Gospel, of which the most important is that Jesus touched the bier and they stood still. We must learn how to touch others since Jesus touches us, and the life of St. Jonah is an excellent example for us to follow.

The Widow of Nain and "The Bronze Bow" prove every person is significant. (mp3 format)

Luke 7:11-16
2020-10-25
SYNOPSIS:Jesus raised the son of the widow of Nain because He arranged everything toward this purpose. We do not know her name or the name of her son. We discuss this and bring in the book called " The Bronze Bow" which also depicts Jesus visiting an unknown person and completely changing their life. Although the book is fiction, it depicts something is happening every day for everyone. We are significant! If we understand this in the Christian way, not the way of the world, we will live with patience, without confusion, in a victorious and transcendent way.

4th Sunday of Luke

4th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Sower
Take Heed Therefore How Ye Hear
Luke 8-5-15
2011-10-30

4th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Sower
He Which Soweth Sparingly Shall Reap Also Sparingly
Luke 8-5-15, 2 Corinthians 9-6-11
2013-10-27

4th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Sower
Honest And Good Heart Patience
Luke 8-5-15
2014-10-26

4th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Sower
Good Ground Patience
Luke 8-5-15
2015

"Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God:" ONLY IF you have "an honest and good heart..." The Parable of the Sower. (mp3 format)

Parable of the Sower
Luke 8-5-15
2016
SYNOPSIS:In the parable of the Sower, only one kind of ground is saved. We skip to the chase and evaluate how much our Savior's words apply to us: "Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables..." and how to have an "an honest and good heart..."

Parable of the Sower. Any ground can become good ground. (mp3 format)

Luke 8:5-15 : 2 Corinthians 12:9 : John 17:1-13
2019-10-27
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the sower describes four kinds of ground, and only one of them brings forth fruit, that is, leads to salvation. Many times, we think statically about this parable and think that a person is one kind of ground or another and does not change. Actually, any ground can become good ground. The epistle and second gospel tells us two things that we must know and do in order to become good ground. In the Epistle of St. Paul today, he talked about glorying in his infirmities. This is absolutely essential but we must understand what this term means. We also must understand as we glorying our infirmities that God loves us will never abandon us. If we understand these two things, any ground can become good ground.

4th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Sower
How To Develop Ears To Hear
2021

5th Sunday of Luke

5th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
Everything In Life Is A Trade
Luke 16-19-31-Galatians 2-16-20
2011-11-06

5th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
Awareness
Luke 16-19-31
2013-11-03

5th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
Thou In Thy Lifetime Receivedst Thy Good Things And Likewise Lazarus Evil Things
Luke 16-19-31-2timothy 2-1-10
2014-11-02

Parable of the Rich man and Lazarus. Self-indulgence kills. (mp3 format)

Luke 16:19-31
2016
SYNOPSIS:A quick exegesis of the Parable of the Rich man and Lazarus, because we should understand what we are reading, then the most important part of scripture reading - application. We talk about what Christian asceticism is and the necessity for it.

Rich man and Lazarus:you must do what you can do! (mp3 format)

Luke 16:19-31
2019-11-03
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the rich man and Lazarus gives us an opportunity to talk about how self-indulgence kills the soul, and what orthodox asceticism really is, and very importantly, God will help us no matter what we encounter, and we must always do what we *can* do. We will not be held responsible for not doing the things that we are *unable* to do but God will definitely hold us responsible for doing the things that we *can* do. The rich man was lost because he did not do what he could do quite easily for the beggar Lazarus.

6th Sunday of Luke

6th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Gadarene Demoniac
Varied Temptations Of Demons
Luke 8-26-39
2011-11-14

6th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Gadarene Demoniac
And Found The Man Out Of Whom The Devils Were Departed Sitting At The Feet Of Jesus Clothed And In His Right Mind
Luke 8-26-39
2014-11-09

6th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Gadarene Demoniac
What Have I To Do With Thee Jesus
Luke 8-26-39
2015

Answer the question of the Gaderne demons. It applies to all Christians every single day. (mp3 format)

Luke 8:26-39
2016
SYNOPSIS:Answer ALL questions in Scripture! We answer this important question, nevermind that is was the question of demons - it applies to us every single day: "What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God most high?"

Life is full of critical moments: The Gaderene demoniac and the Ascetic-Martyr James. (mp3 format)

Luke 8:26-39
2020-11-15
SYNOPSIS:We must encounter *everything* in our lives spiritually, or else we may miss a life-changing moment. We discuss two moments in the life of the people of the Gadarenes and the Monk-Martyr James (+Nov 1,1520). Their reaction to them was completely different. The people of the Gadarenes had no idea that they turned down an opportunity to have the light live within them. After a chance conversation which he thought about spiritually, James became a vessel of light.

Life is full of critical moments: The Gaderene demoniac and the Ascetic-Martyr James. (mp3 format)

7th Sunday of Luke

7th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Woman With The Issue Of Blood
Having Spent All Her Living Who touched Me Be Of Good Comfort Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole
Luke 8-41-56
2011-11-20

7th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Woman With An Issue Of Blood
Touching Christ
Luke 8-41-56
2013-11-17

7th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Woman With The Issue Of Blood And Jairos Teach Us About Faith
Jesus Prayer And Self Talk
Luke 8-41-56
2014-11-16

7th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Who Touched Me
Luke 7-41-56
2015

Reading the healing of the woman with an issue of blood and daughter of Jairus to meet Christ (mp3 format)

Luke 8:41-56
2016
SYNOPSIS:First an exhortation to read the Gospels, because they reveal to us Jesus Christ. We read this story about the healing of the woman with an issue of blood and the daughter of Jairus in a way I want you to learn to read. You are a "fly on the wall" as I emphasize the things that most touch my heart, those things that are "underlined", and reveal Christ.

8th Sunday of Luke

8th Sunday of Luke (Word DOC format)

Notes
The Greatest Commandment
Luke 10-25-37

8th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Who Is My Neighbor
Luke 10-25-37
2011-11-27

8th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

And Who Is My Neighbour
Luke 10-25-37-Galatians 6-11-18
2013-11-24

8th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Good Samaritan
The Incarnation
Luke 10-25-37
2014-11-23

8th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Good Samaritan
Theory Vs Practice
Luke 10-25-37
2015

8th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Luke 10:25-37
2016
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Good Samaritan is read just before the Nativity Fast begins, because it is a beautiful, complete description of the Incarnation, using symbolic language. It is also the answer to the question "Who is my neighbor". This parable, if we understand it, teaches us who we are, and what the Incarnation did. If this knowledge abides in our heart, we know ourselves and easily can answer the question. If a man does not know himself he CANNOT know his neighbor.

Why would God want to have communion with me? What have I to offer God? The answer is in the parable of the Good Samaritan. (mp3 format)

Parable Of the Good Samaritan
Luke 10:25-37
2018-11-25

Who is my neighbor? What is man? The Parable of the Good Samaritan. (mp3 format)

Parable of the Good Samaritan
Luke 10:25-37 Ephesians 2:8-10
2019-11-24
SYNOPSIS:The Lawyer asked Jesus "Who is my neighbor", and He answered this horrible question with the parable of the Good Samaritan. A better question, and the one that Jesus answered (which included the question about the neighbor, and much more) is "What is man, that Thou art mindful of him?" (PS 8:4) This parable describes the incarnation, and who is man, and who he will become, and why. We have no need to answer any questions about "who is our neighbor?" if we understand and live according to this parable.

If the incarnation resonates in our hearts, we will know who our neighbor is. (RTF format)

Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Incarnation
Luke 10:25-37
2020-11-29
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the good Samaritan answers the question who is my neighbor. It also is the most perfect description of the incarnation in the Scriptures if the incarnation resonates in our hearts, there is no need to ask who our neighbor is.

9th Sunday of Luke

9th Sunday of Luke (Word DOC format)

Notes
Parable Of The Rich Man Whose Ground Brought Forth Plentifully
Luke 12-16-21

9th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Harvest Of The Rich Man
Luke 12-16-21
2011-12-04

9th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Harvest Of The Rich Man
Talking To Ourselves The Remembrance Of Death
Luke 12-16-21
2014-11-30

9th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Parable Harvest Of The Rich Man
What Shall I Do
Luke 12-16
2015

The Harvest of the Rich Man, and the Deep Heart. Who are you, and what does your life consist of? (mp3 format)

Luke 12:16-21 : Psalm 65:6 (Sept)
2018-12-02
SYNOPSIS:Man was made to know God and even to contain God within his deep heart. A man’s life consists of completely and only this. The parable of the Harvest of the Rich Man shows a man who does not know who he is, or what his life consists of, who squanders his deep heart (Ps 65:6), numbering his produce and asking counsel only from himself. Let’s discuss what a man’s life consists of and what he can and cannot possess and the things in life that he should and should not number.

10th Sunday of Luke

10th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Hidden Motivations
Luke 13-10-17
2011-12-11

10th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Thou Art Loosed From Thine Infirmity Kindness Saves Us
Luke 13-10-17
2014-12-08

Our precious ideas challenged - Healing of the woman with an infirmity of 18 years. (mp3 format)

Luke 13:10-17
2016
SYNOPSIS:There should have been TWO healings when the woman with an infirmity of 18 years was healed! The ruler of the synagogue should have been healed of his "precious opinions". Why was he not healed? What must we do to be healed?

Healing of the woman on the Sabbath day. At least be kind. (mp3 format)

Luke 13:10-17
2018-12-02
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the woman with the spirit of infirmity for 18 years has 2 important lessons that stand out for us. The first is that we are also bent over, so should we should identify with the woman and everyone suffering. In the second is that since we are bent over, we should at least be kind. The great sin of the Pharisees was that they had no kindness. A person cannot be saved if they are not kind.

11th Sunday of Luke

11th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Jesus Prayer And Thanksgiving
Luke 17-12-19
2011-12-18

11th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

When He Heard This He Was Very Sorrowfu For He Was Very Rich
Knowing What Is Alive And Dead
Luke 18-18-27
2014-12-14

11th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole
Healing Of The Ten Lepers Thankfulness Energizes Everything
Luke 17-12-19
2014-12-22

11th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)

Healing Of Ten Lepers
Subtle Teachings
Luke 17-12-19
2015

12th Sunday of Luke

Of the 10 lepers, only one was completely healed. Why? Healing is a process, and depends on our reactions. (mp3 format)

Luke 17:12-19
2019-12-22
SYNOPSIS:When Jesus healed the 10 lepers of their physical leprosy, only one, a Samaritan, returned to thank and worship Him. There is an important lesson here. Complete healing is always a process, and depends on us. What must we do to be completely healed? Luke 17:12-19

Weekday Readings

The giving of the Holy Spirit is personal and intimate, to each of His "Little Ones" (mp3 format)

Monday of the Holy Spirit
Holy Spirit Is Personal
Matthew 8:10-20
2018-05-28
SYNOPSIS:The day of Pentecost was a public event affecting many people, but at its core, Pentecost is personal. We are the "little ones"that are referred to in the Gospel on this Monday of the Holy Spirit today, and the Holy Spirit is personal and intimate with every believer. We little ones must remember that even though we might feel insignificant, the Holy Spirit will abide in us and help us personally, because he chooses to. If we understand this and live by it, we will live victorious lives.

Monday of the Holy Spirit. We must do the practical things in order to become spiritual. (mp3 format)

Practical To Spiritual
Matthew 18:10-20
2019-06-17
SYNOPSIS:You must have practical in order to have spiritual. Actually, you must do practical things in a spiritual way in order to truly become spiritual. The Gospel of St. John was read during the Paschal period, ans after Pentecost and now we are trying to apply the grace of the Holy Spirit in our life in practical ways. Therefore, we are beginning to read the Synoptic Gospels starting with St. Matthew, we can see everywhere that they are a practical application of living spiritually. The selection today is a good example. We see practical examples of how to stave off arrogance and indifference, and a feeling of insignificance, and anger.

1st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Jesus Teaches A New Way Of Understanding Sin
All Life Is Lived From The Heart
Matthew 5-27-32,Romans 1-28-2-9
2011-06-16

1st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Matthew 5:27-32, Rom 8.28-39, John 15:17-16:2
2021-06-24
SYNOPSIS:On this Thursday in Pentecost week, we ask, what was the MAJOR thing that the Holy Spirit does for us? There are many "correct" answers but today we assert that He helps us with our thoughts, which are a reflection and result of who we are. We synthesize 3 readings: the Gospel for the day, when Jesus teaches about thoughts and adultery, and the two readings for the Chinese Martyrs of the Boxer rebellion. Everything in our life that we do, good or bad, starts with thought. We discuss how it is impossible to be saved, with good thoughts unless we become "conformed to the image of his Son" (Rom 8:29), and if we are, the world will hate us, as it hated the holy martyrs, because they were "not of the world" (John 15:18) June 11/24, Chinese Martyrs of the Boxer rebellion, Matthew 5:27-32, Rom 8.28-39, John 15:17-16:2

Only one way of life permanently relieves anxiety. (mp3 format)

Anxiety
Matthew 6-21-24-7-9-11
2019-06-24
SYNOPSIS:Only Jesus Christ has the authority to tell us "Do not be anxious", because only He can back up His words by helping us permanently. The are many temporary cures for anxiety, but only one way of life leads to a life free of anxiety. The Gospel talks about this way, which is a learned skill

2nd Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Everything Must Be Done With Faith Or The Lord Say I Never Knew You Depart From Me, Ye That Work Iniquity
Matthew 7-21-23
2011-06-22

2nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Childrens Homily
Jesus Is Always With Us
Matthew 8-23-27
2011-06-23

2nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Romans 5-10-16
2011-06-23

3rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Childrens Homily
Fear Not Them Which Kill The Body
Matthew 10-23-31
2011-06-30

3rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Groaning Hope And Prayer
The Spirit Itself Maketh Intercession For Us
Romans 8-22-27
2011-06-30

3rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Spirit Itself Maketh Intercession For Us With Groanings Which Cannot Be Uttered
Romans 8-22-27
2014-06-26

Teaching of Jesus about John the Baptist, and living up to our abilities. (mp3 format)

John the Baptist
Matthew 11:2-15
2019-07-08
SYNOPSIS:Whenever Jesus was asked a question, He also answered much more than just the question. Such as His answer to the question of the disciples of St. John the Baptist: whether or not He was the one "that should come". This answer contains instructions for how to live our life properly. As is the case with almost all of the Gospel it is counterintuitive to the vast majority of pop Christianity, some of which has even invaded the Orthodox faithful. We should not be overwhelmed by the austerity of Jesus teaching. It is quite easy to fulfill His teaching if we always struggle to live up to the limits of our ability, even if our ability is very small.

4th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Take My Yoke Upon You
Ye Shall Find Rest
Matthew 11-27-30
2015

5th Wednesday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2008-07-16
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

6th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Whosoever Shall Do The Will Of My Father Which Is In Heaven The Same Is My Brother And Sister And Mother
Matthew 12-46-13-3
2014-07-10

Morality after baptism. It still applies. (mp3 format)

Morality After Baptism
Abortion Harms Women
1 Corinthians 5:9-6:11
2019-07-29
SYNOPSIS:St. Paul is always explicit about the moral requirements of Christianity. In our modern day, these requirements are forgotten, ignored or mocked. They all still apply. There are nuances in our modern day. We explain the 2 main admonitions and Paul makes in the selection, the first being not to associate with fornicators, covetous, etc. Christianity was growing in the midst of the pagan society it was a clear demarcation between those that did unclean things those that did not. In our day, we have family members and business associates that are fornicators and engage in other unclean lifestyle choices. It is not realistic that we would never associate with them, but it is still required of a Christian that he applies to his personal life the apostles admonition: "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God?"

The prayer of Jesus Christ that we be one with God is also a prayer that we be one with ourselves. (mp3 format)

John 17:18-26
2021-06-18
SYNOPSIS:On the leave-taking of the Ascension, the gospel text is from the high Priestly prayer of Jesus where He prays: “That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us.” We were made in order to be one with God, but we cannot be one with Him unless we also become one with ourselves: not scattered, but integrated, complete, sufficient, consistent. This is our destiny and we talk about it and then we mention a lamentable event week ago when a hierarch who should be rebuked preached in a discordant way which has nothing to do with union with God or within ourselves. If such preaching disappeared from Orthodox churches and was replaced with a call to repentance and a call to always know and struggle to fulfill our purpose, can we imagine how beautiful and powerful our lives would be? (John 17:18-26)
COMMENT:Also in Video

8th Thursday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2008
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or RTF

9th Tuesday after Pentecost (HTML format)

2008
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or RTF

9th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Whosoever Will Be Great Among You Let Him Be Your Minister And Whosoever Will Be Chief Among You Let Him Be Your Servant
Matthew 20-17-28
2011-08-11

9th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Pride Is The Problem
Matthew 20-17-28
2013-08-22

"My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding." This will be true for us only if we choose to fall upon the stone. (mp3 format)

Psalm 48:3 Matthew 21:44
2021-08-26
SYNOPSIS:"My mouth shall speak wisdom and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding." (Ps 48:3) This Psalm verse describes the end result of the fulfillment of the purpose of our life: Theosis. We look at this verse in depth. We read it today, just before the epistle reading for St Tikhon of Zadonsk. It is one thing to understand this verse, and it is another to accomplish it. The Gospel read today will teach us this: we must fall upon the stone, and be broken. "Whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder." (Mat 21:44) There are only two options in life: to fall upon the stone which is Jesus Christ our for it to fall upon us and for us to be shattered. We describe both of these, falling upon the stone and having it fall upon us, made this never be! It is impossible to speak about such things without calling to mind our modern day problems and especially the climate of fear and, quite frankly, stupidity and worldliness that is so common during our pandemic times. We describe what it means to fall upon the stone during this times and what things we should avoid so as to have the stone never fall upon us.

10th Friday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Beatitudes In Luke
Learn To Weep To Have Joy
Luke 6-17-23
2013-11-10

11th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

He That Shall Endure Unto The End The Same Shall Be Saved
Matthew 24-13-28
2011-08-25

11th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

For As The Lightning Cometh Out Of The East And Shineth Even Unto The West So Shall Also The Coming Of The Son Of Man Be
Matthew 24-13-28
2012-08-16

The answer to all questions: the "Eagles" are in malice as children, and in understanding as men. (mp3 format)

Matthew 24:13-28 1 Corinthinans 14:20
2021-09-02
SYNOPSIS:A discussion of a difficult saying of Jesus: “for wheresoever the carcass is there will be the eagles gathered together.”, combined with something else we read today: “Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.” (1 Cor 14:20). Many are wondering "What to do" Christians always know what to do at least in a general way: we are to be in malice as children, and in understanding as men, and endure to the end. If we are always where the body is, we will be Eagles.

12th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Godly Sorrow Worketh Repentance To Salvation Not To Be Repented Of But The Sorrow Of The World Worketh Death
2 Corinthians 7-1-10
2013-09-12

Why did Jesus forbid others to speak openly about His healings? (mp3 format)

Why Did Jesus Forbid Others To Tell About The Healings
Mark 3:6-12
2019-09-09
SYNOPSIS:Many times, early in his ministry, Jesus Christ forbade people to speak openly about His many healings. Why did He do this? This is mysterious, and when anything is mysterious, we should obey God even if we do not understand, because obedience always precedes understanding. There are other reasons that a more pragmatic, and we speak about them.

14th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Gadarene Demoniac
Fear Of God Vs Other Fear
Mark 5-22-24,35-6-1
2011-06-15

16th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Humility Of The Greek Syrophenician Woman Who Cared For Her Husbands Mistress
Mark 7-24-30-Ephesians 1-1-9
2011-09-29

16th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Syrophonecian Woman
Entitlement
Mark 7-24-30
2014-09-25

What is the *Greatest* achievement of the Martyrs? (mp3 format)

Luke 4:16-22 Matthew 25:1-13
2021-10-07
SYNOPSIS:This homily is a synthesis of the two Gospel selections we read in liturgy and some experiences of Fr Seraphim, when he venerated Holy Iviron icon of Hawaii which was present the past two days for the feast of our sister parish: "Holy Mother of God Orthodox Church", in Georgetown Texas. We bring together many things including the greatest achievement (miracles) of the Mother of God when people venerate her holy icons, the terrible confusion of our day when people are terrible confused about where and Who Jesus Christ is, when we talk about the incredulity of the Jewish ruling elite they heard Jesus preach in the synagogue: "And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?" No Christian should ask that question because they should know who Jesus is but we know only if we live according to the Spirit, and not according to secular life. This day is also the commemoration of the Holy Equal to the Apostles and Proto-martyr Thekla, and the reading for is a very common reading for women martyrs, about the 10 virgins. Only five achieve the greatest achievement the human being can have in this world, which is also the greatest of the martyrs. We talk about this achievement, how to be sure about how to live our life and not be confused. In the midst of our discussion, we mention the medical and social confusion of our day regarding sickness, and unfortunately some will focus only on these words, but we cannot understand anything without achieving that which we are called to, and the person who has this great gift is not confused about anything in life.

17th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

No Existence Or Power In Evil
Do Not Be Afraid Of Being Labeled
Mark 11-27-33
2014-01-09

17th Saturday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Ten Virgins
Aquiring The Holy Spirit
Matthew 25:1-13
2008-01-27

19th Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

I Therein Do Rejoice Yea And Will Rejoice
Joy Is A Choice
Philippians 1-12-20, Philippians 1-20-27
2013-10-31

20th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

What Went Ye Out Into The Wilderness For To See A Reed Shaken With The Wind
Luke 7-17-30
2014-10-16

21st Monday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Sinful Woman Who Annointed Jesus In The House Of Simon The Pharisee
Loving Much Seeing Reality
Luke 7-36-50
2014-10-20

21st Monday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

I Know Both How To Be Abased And I Know How To Abound
I Can Do All Things Through Christ Which Strengtheneth Me
Philippians 4-10-23
2014-10-27

21st Tuesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Spiritually Praying For People
Main Problem In Society Today
Colossians 1-2-7-11
2014-10-28

21st Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Having Made Peace Through The Blood Of His Cross By Him To Reconcile All Things Unto Himself
Colossians 1-18-23
2012-10-25

21st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

The Mystery Which Hath Been Hid From Ages And From Generations But Now Is Made Manifest To His Saints
Perfection Happening In The Midst Of The Mundane
Colossians 1-24-29
2011-11-03

22nd Tuesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

If Any Man Will Come After Me Let Him Deny Himself And Take Up His Cross Daily And Follow Me
Luke-9-23-27
2011-11-01

22nd Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

And Whatsoever Ye Do Do It Heartily As To The Lord And Not Unto Men
Colossians 3-17-4-1
2011-11-09

22nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Continue In Prayer
Let Your Speech Be Alway With Grace Seasoned With Salt
Colossians 4-2-9
2011-11-10

23rd Monday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

We Give Thanks To God Always For You All Making Mention Of You In Our Prayers
Pray For Others
1 Thessalonians 1-1-5
2011-11-16

"In power and much assurance". The key to transcendent living, compared to the broken solutions of the world. (mp3 format)

1 Thessalonians 1:1-5 : Luke 12:30-31
2019-11-18
SYNOPSIS:We will never find something if we search were it is not. The world searches for assurance, happiness, peace, where it is not. We reference a recent article a young man who searched for meaning in his life in the wrong place, and ended up mutilating his body, and how is case is typical for most people, not in the exact details, but in the spiritual error. The opening of the epistle of St Paul to the Thessalonians included this statement: “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance”. Where do we get this assurance? It is a critical question in our day. The mind and heart of St Paul, expressed with brilliance and affection in the first few verses of his introduction, together with the Gospel read during the liturgy (Luke 12:13-15, 22-31), teaches us the only path that will led to “much assurance”. Link to the article about the unfortunate young man: https://www.dailysignal.com/2019/11/17/1-year-after-sex-change-this-teen-regrets-his-frankenstein-hack-job/?fbclid=IwAR2C1so1SSSPNUyUfyuPoAv_IS2clr9xoMBrlmQJ5CNfVqT5Dgtbj-IcbWA

23rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

True Eucharist Every Day
For This Cause Also Thank We God Without Ceasing
1 Thessalonians 2-9-14
2013-11-28

There is only one, goal for everyone – we must love them. If we love them no matter how they respond, we have succeeded. (mp3 format)

Only One Goal For Everyone Love Them
Luke 14:12-15 : Luke 6:17-23
2019-11-25
SYNOPSIS:There is a deeper meaning to the words of Jesus to the Pharisee when he sat and ate dinner with him. He told him that he should never invite people only to get a reward from them. Everybody knows this. But do we do other things for people, expecting some sort of reward, not in terms of money or some material thing, but something? For a priest and any Christian, it is hard to encounter people for whom you do things, but they do not respond as we wish them to respond. The spiritual meaning of His words is that the only goal we should have for any human being is that we love them, and if we do that then we are completely successful, no matter what they do in response to our love. This is very simple, and not so easy. We also mentioned St. John the Almsgiver, whose day it is, who exemplified this virtue of which we are speaking.

26th Thursday after Pentecost (Adobe PDF format)

Parable Of The Ten Minas And Poisonous Self Talk
Luke 19-12-28
2018
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

26th Saturday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

No Man Having Put His Hand To The Plough And Looking Back Is Fit For The Kingdom Of God
Timothy Of Esphigmenou
Luke 9-57-62
2013-11-30

In the days of Noah: appearances vs spiritual meaning. (mp3 format)

Luke 17:26-37 Luke:17-20-25
2017-12-05
SYNOPSIS:Life is full of space, and things that appear to us not as they really are. In the days of Noah, people were taken unawares. How do we remain "aware" It is by perfecting a Christian skill, given by God, by grace, only to those who struggle for it: to know the inner, true meaning of everything.

Why do we pray for the dead? Because of the Resurrection. 3 prayers of the priest in liturgy. (mp3 format)

27th Tuesday after Pentecost
Luke 21:12-19
2016
SYNOPSIS:Why do we pray for the dead? Because of the Resurrection. Jesus explains this very clearly in His answer to the Jews who asked him about the woman who had 7 husbands (Luke 21:12-19). As we talked about this, the best 2 answers to the question "What is different between Orthodox and (fill in your Christian denomination here) came out. They involve the Resurrection and mercy. We also talked at length about what the purpose of liturgy is and the first 3 secret prayers the priest prays. He prays with more intensity, since he is in front of the altar, but we all must learn how to pray as these prayers. These prayers answer the common question I get: "What prayer can I pray for (fill in the blank) ".

27th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

They Understood None Of These Things And This Saying Was Hid From Them
Understanding Is A Process
Luke 18-31-34
2013-12-05

27th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Keep That Which Is Committed To Thy Trust Avoiding Profane And Vain Babblings And Oppositions Of Science Falsely So Called
Stephen The New
1 Timothy 6-17-20
2014-12-11

The Christian law, which has only one commandment, is fulfilled only in the heart. (mp3 format)

Luke 20:27-44 : Galatians 3:23-29
2018-12-17
SYNOPSIS:The words of St. Paul to his son Timothy are an example of living in the heart. The actions of the ruler who followed the external commandments but did not know anything besides them are an example of a man who lives outside of his heart. The Christian life has no power whatsoever if it is not lived in the heart. We examine these positive and negative examples about life in the heart. The person living in his heart understands that " Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief", and that He has "shown forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on Him to life everlasting" and that, in these things, we know everything needful to know how to live, what to think, and who to be in every situation in life.

Why did the apostles not understand? He who truly loves is never tired. (mp3 format)

Mark 8:11-21
2019-12-22
SYNOPSIS:The Apostles did not understand the Lord when He told then "Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.", and thought it was because they had not taken any bread with them. He reminded them of the 2 mass feedings He has conducted, and asked them why they did not understand. That is an excellent question for us also. Why do we not understand? Why do we make bad choices? Why is their ignorance? The answer is simple: we do not love enough. We reference a saying by Mother Gavrila, which sets our bar: "He who truly loves does not feel tired. "

30th Friday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Whosoever Shall Give You A Cup Of Water To Drink In My Name Shall Not Lose His Reward
Mark 9-33-41
2014-01-02

31st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Whoso Looketh Into The Perfect Law Of Liberty This Man Shall Be Blessed In His Deed
James 1-19-27
2014-01-23

32nd Saturday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Increase Our Faith
Order Of Events And Answers In Scripture
Luke 17-3-10
2014-12-25

35th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

For Ye Have Need Of Patience
Hebrews 10:35-11:7
2008-01-24

35th Friday after Pentecost (HTML format)

Which Country Are We Mindful Of
Hebrews 11:8,11-16
2008-01-25
Also in Format: RTF

36th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)

Pure Religion And Undefiled Before God And The Father Is This
James 1-19-27
2011-01-27

38th Monday after Pentecost (HTML format)

What Did Christ Do On The Cross
1 Peter 2:21-3:9
2008-02-11
Also in Format: RTF

Homilies for Children

The Parable of the unmerciful debtor, explained to children. (mp3 format)

Homilies for Children
11th Sunday after Pentecost
Matthew 18:23-35
2016
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the unmerciful debtor as explained to very active, interactive and attentive children.

Sundays of Pascha

Pascha

Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

1997

Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Metropolitan Vitaly Encyclical
1997

Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Metropolitan Kyprianos Encyclical
1999

Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Serbian Archdiocese Encyclical
1999

Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

2003

Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Agape Vespers
2008-04-27

Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

2009-04-19

Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

2010-04-04
Also in Format: mp3

Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Agape Vespers
Paschal Instructions
2010-04-04
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Bright Week Dos And Donts
2012-04-15

What is the meaning of Pascha? Pascha letter, 2017 (HTML format)

Pascha Letter
2017
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC

Why is the first part of the 9th Matinal Gospel read during Agape Vespers on day of Pascha? (mp3 format)

Pascha Agape Vespers
John 10:19-25
2017-04-16
SYNOPSIS:Why is the first part of the 9th Matinal Gospel read during Agape Vespers on day of Pascha? It is because of a common characteristic of true Christians - we are always looking ahead to the next life, and this determines how we live in the present. Also About the liturgical use of fictional discussions, one of which, from the myrrh-bearers, also illustrates this characteristic of looking ahead, and our vision of the future effecting our present. Also a very important questoin: What is the most important day of the year? It is NOT Pascha!

Why do we read the beginning of the Gospel of John on Pascha? (mp3 format)

John 1:1-17
2020-04-19
SYNOPSIS:On the night of Pascha the Gospel reading is not about the resurrection but rather is from the beginning of the Gospel of John. We explain why.

Pascha: Let us give God what we can, and His mercy will magnify it and we will live in the resurrection. (RTF format)

2021-05-02
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Everything that we accomplish is by the mercy of God! His greatest mercy is the resurrection which He manifests in our life even now. This will surely happen to us if we give God everything that we can give Him. We are not responsible for giving Him what we cannot give but if we give him the things that we are able to give, then we are living according to His mercy. A reflection on a hymn from the Holy Saturday Canon which speaks of the soldiers guarding the tomb: "O ye who keep guard falsely and in vain, ye have forsaken your own mercy", and using the myrrh bearing women and Mary of Egypt as examples how we can accept the mercy of God.

Thomas Sunday

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)

Thomas Sunday
1998

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)

1998

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)

Saint Thomas Sunday
1998
Also in Format: Word DOC

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

2008-05-04

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

2009-04-26

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)

Saint Thomas Sunday
Realism About The Resurrection
2010-04-11
Also in Format: RTF or mp3

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)

Why Are The Altar Doors Open On Pascha
When Are They Closed What Does It Mean
2011-04-30
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)

Thomas Sunday
Believing Disbelief Is The Most Important Part Of The Story
John 20-19-31
2011-05-01
Also in Format: RTF or mp3

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday
Always Stay Close To Christ No Matter What The Understanding Says
John 20-19-31
2012-04-22

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday
Thomas Is Just Like Us
John 20-19-31
2013-05-12

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Exegesis Of Epistle For Thomas Sunday Do Something
Acts 5-12-20
2014-04-26

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday
Love With Perseverance Fixes Everything
John 20-19-31
2014-04-27

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Thomas
Doors Were Shut Peace Be Unto You
John 20-19-31
2015-04-19

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday
Be Not Faithless But Believing
John 20-19-31
2016

Thomas Sunday: the most important day in the life of Thomas, and us too, if we look at it spiritually. (mp3 format)

Understanding the confession of Thomas spiritually.
Understanding and fighting despondency.
John 20:19-31
2017
SYNOPSIS:Thomas Sunday is the most important Sunday in the year for Orthodox Christians. Why? How can we be like Thomas? To do this, we must understand and fight despondency. We must also understand the confession of Thomas: "My Lord and my God" - not just a dogmatic confession, but also a prophesy of things to come after we live out our "8 days"

Core message of Thomas Sunday, for those who have sorrow & confusion. (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday
John 20:19-31
2018-04-15
SYNOPSIS:Thomas Sunday is the most important day of the year. His experience teaches us a core truth, which we will need - many times in our lives. What are we to do when we are deeply sorrowful, confused, anger, disillusioned? Thomas teaches us.

5 important points from the Gospel on Thomas Sunday. (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday
John 20:9-31
2019-05-05
SYNOPSIS:5 important points from the Gospel on Thomas Sunday. Each is related to the other, and must be *applied* to your life to be of any use to you at all.
1. Show up!
2. God will be there through our doubts/sins/stupidity/etc IF...
3. We must work even when we do not see God.
4. Thomas was the first to declare the two natures of Jesus Christ.
5. The promise of the Holy Spirit.

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

_2021+-as-my-father-hath-sent-me-even-so-send-i-you_john20-20 As My Father Hath Sent Me Even So Send I You
John 20-20
2021

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Then Were The Disciples Glad When They Saw The Lord
2021

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

2021-05-09
SYNOPSIS:Len: 0:39 God enlightens each of us in unique ways according to our abilities and enlightenment happens by degrees. And nothing happens unless we endure. (An excerpt, starting about 8:05 in the homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pascha-sun-02_2021+thomas+god-reveals-himself-according-to-ability-and-zeal.mp3)

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

John 20:20
2021-05-09

Why did Jesus show His wounds to his disciples after His resurrection? (mp3 format)

John 20:19
2021-05-09
SYNOPSIS:Len 0:40 All of the Gospels during the Paschal period or about to God enlightens us by condescending to our human weakness. This is why he kept his wounds. He had a perfected body but he also was revealing himself to imperfect people. (An excerpt, starting about 10:30 in the homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pascha-sun-02_2021+thomas+god-reveals-himself-according-to-ability-and-zeal.mp3)

Why Did Jesus tell the apostles: "Peace be unto you" as His first words when He entered the upper room? (mp3 format)

John 20:19
2021-05-09
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on John 20:19. Len 0:49. (An excerpt, starting about 9:12 in the a homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pascha-sun-02_2021+thomas+god-reveals-himself-according-to-ability-and-zeal.mp3)

2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Thomas Sunday Is The Most Important Day Of The Year
2021-05-09
SYNOPSIS:Why is Thomas Sunday the most important day of the year? What is the main message of Thomas Sunday? How is Thomas Sunday in the weeks that followed after significantly different than Pascha and Bright week? We answer all of these important questions in just over 2 minutes. (An excerpt, starting about 0:15 in the homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pascha-sun-02_2021+thomas+god-reveals-himself-according-to-ability-and-zeal.mp3)

Thomas Sunday. God reveals Himself according to our ability and zeal. (RTF format)

2021-0509
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Thomas Sunday is always the Sunday after Pascha. God revealed himself to Thomas and brought him to a full healing and full belief by condescending to his weakness. He does that with all of us. Enlightenment happens by degrees, and God will do anything to enlighten us as long as we have zeal and we endure. It’s really very simple. It is not easy but it is always simple. If we seek God, God will come and find us and enlighten us according to our abilities at that moment and we will be raised up and He will come and find us when we have higher abilities and enlighten us and raise us up higher again.

Myrhhbearing Women

3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Myrrhbearers
Who Shall Separate Us From The Love Of Christ
1998

3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Myrrhbearing Women
1998
Also in Format: Word DOC

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Myrrhbearing Women
2000

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Myrhhbearing Women
2003

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

2008-05-11

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

2009-05-03

3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

2010-04-18
Also in Format: Word DOC

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Myrhhbearing Women
2010-04-18

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Myrrhbearing Women
2011-05-07

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Myrrhbearing Women
Joseph Became Bold Who Shall Roll Us Away The Stone From The Door Of The Sepulchre
Mark 15-43-47
2011-05-08

3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Myrrhbearing Women Joseph Nicodemus
Having Become Bold
Mark 15-43-16-8
2012-04-29
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Myrrhbearing Women Joseph Nicodemus
The Ache In The Heart
Mark 15-43-16-8
2013-05-19

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

They Trembled And Were Amazed Neither Said They Any Thing To Any Man For They Were Afraid
Mark 15-43-16-8
2015-04-26

3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Having Become Bold
Who Shall Roll Us Away
Mark 15-43-16-8
2016

The lesson of the Myrhh-bearing women - do things becasue of who you are. (mp3 format)

Mark 15:43-16:8
2017-04-30
SYNOPSIS:The Myrhh-bearing women attempted an impossible and dangerous task - to anoint the body of the Lord after the Sabbath ended. They did not know that He was risen, but they did know that a hostile Roman guard and a huge stone were in their way. Why did they go to the tomb? IT was because of who they are. Their hearts told them they MUST do this thing. This must be so, also, with us. Christians must feel compelled to do good because of who they are, and not any compulsion from anyone or things, not even God. 15:59

The Myrhhbearing Women. Our hurts must burn. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Myrhhbearing Women
Mark 15:43-16:8
2018-04-22
SYNOPSIS:The Holy Myrrh bearers persevered despite great disappointment, loss and fear. WHY? For the same reason that Thomas persevered, and Peter, and Luke and Cleopas, and all the true Apostles and disciples. It was because their heart burned with love for Jesus, and they gave to Him all that they were capable of giving.

The Holy Myrhh-bearers: We must always give whatever we *can*! (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Holy Myrhh Bearers
Mark 15:43-16:8
2019-05-12
SYNOPSIS:The story of the Holy Myrrh-bearers is especially about doing what we are able to do. They acted out of love, even though they were overcome with sadness, and because of this, ignorance. If we do what we are able to do (never less!), even if we are not completely correct, God will make us able to do more. This is the story of how a sinful, ignorant human being because enlightened and perfected.

Restoring the image that was buried under the passions: Pascha is the celebration of the ongoing restoration of the image of God in man! (mp3 format)

2020-05-02
SYNOPSIS:This is what we are celebrating during the time of Pascha: "As One Who loveth Mankind, desiring to save from deception all whom Thou hast created, Thou didst endure to be nailed to the Cross, O Saviour, that by Thy flesh Thou mightest restore Thine image, which was buried under the passions; and having cast down hades, Thou didst arise, and the dead with Thee". (from the Canon of the Myrrh-Bearers, Ode VII) Understanding this hymn means applying it to everything in our daily life. Acting on this knowledge, with is resonating in the soul, will give us energy to overcome everything.

We can only have joy if we pursue obedience struggle and endure sadness. (mp3 format)

Mark 15:43-16:8
2020-05-03
SYNOPSIS:In the world, people pursue happiness, mistaking it for joy. Joy is actually a condition in the human heart, when we are free of our passions. We can NOT HAVE joy if we pursue ONLY joy. We must pursue obedience, and struggle, and endure sadness in this life. The example of the myrrh-bearing women, and the Apostle Thomas, and the Apostle Peter and many others that we read about both before and after the time of Pascha teach us this fundamental truth.

Essential for modern survival: Fidelity and courage like the myrhh-bearers. (mp3 format)

2021-05-16
SYNOPSIS:We live in a difficult age in the truth is called a lie and a lie is called truth and death is called life and life is called death. This happens with secular leaders, many people we know, and even religious leaders. How are we to survive in this age of enhanced anxiety and increasing repression and control? Let us look to the holy myrrh-bearers as an example of fidelity and courage, and practical ways to live We must learn from their example, and we will not be destroyed, and by our prayers, our loved ones will be preserved.

The Paralytic

4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Paralytic
Today Is A Feast Day For All Of Us Paralytics Archimandrite Tikhon Shevkunov Sretensky Monastery Moscow
John 5-1-15
Also in Format: Word DOC

4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Paralytic
1999
Also in Format: Word DOC

4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Paralytic
2000

4th Sunday of Pascha (RTF format)

The Paralytic
2001

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

2008-05-21

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

2009-05-10

4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Paralytic
2010-04-25
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Doctrine Of The Cross In Vespers
Victory Over Death And Healing
Sunday-Octoechos-Tone-3
2011-05-14

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Paralytic
Doctrine Of Baptism And Baptismal Admonitions
John 5-1-15
2011-05-15

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Peter Heals Aeneas And Raises Tabitha
Faith And Miracles
Acts 9-32-42
2012-05-05

4th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

Paralytic By The Sheeps Pool
I Have No Man
John 5-1-15
2012-05-06
Also in Format: mp3

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Baptism
Wilt Thou Be Made Whole I Have No Man Rise Take Up Thy Bed And Walk Sin No More
John 5-1-15
2013-05-26

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Paralytic By The Sheeps Pool
Exegesis
John 5-1-15
2013-05-26

4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Paralytic
Wilt Thou Be Made Whole
John 5-1-15
2014-05-11

The healing of the paralytic at the sheep pool, and key phrases. (mp3 format)

4th Sunday of Pascha
John 5:1-15
2019-05-20
SYNOPSIS:When we read scripture, we must look for certain key phrases and words, that are will teach us something if we read with our heart and not just our eyes. The healing of the paralytic at the sheep spool has for such key phrases that we want to speak of today: “Wilt that be made whole?”, “I have no man”, “rise, take up thy bed, and walk”, “thou art made whole: sin no more”.

The Samaritan Woman

5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Samaritan Woman
2001
Also in Format: RTF or Word DOC

5th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

2008-05-25
Also in Format: mp3

5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

2009-05-17
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Samaritan Woman
2010-05-02
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Samaritan Woman
John 4-5-42
2011-05-22

5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Samaritan Woman
John 4-5-42
2012-05-13

5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Samaritan Woman
Feastday For All Us Samaritans
John 4-5-42
2013-06-03

5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Luminous Personality Of The Samaritan Woman Photini
Courage Honesty Curiosity Burning Heart
John 4-5-42
2014-05-18

The Samaritan Woman. Great things happen, when there is kindness, and humility. (mp3 format)

The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2017
SYNOPSIS:Great things happen when we are kind, and we are humble. The Samaritan woman, Photini, became equal to the Apostles, because He was kind, and she was humble. How many times have we been kind? How many times have we been unkind - a more exact phrase would be "have not followed the Great Commandment and have not loved our neighbor" - by our indifference, arrogance, inattention? All these things are just at hateful as active hate. Let us follow the example of our Lord, and be kind to everyone who crosses our path, and if we have even a shred of humility, God will bless us and those we encounter.

The purpose of Liturgy and the conversation of the "woman at the well" with Jesus Christ. They are about the same thing! (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Samaritan Woman
2018-05-06
SYNOPSIS:A little bit about how the Gospel of John is different from everything else in the bible, and the purpose of liturgy (the same as the purpose of John), and that the conversation of the woman at the well is a mystical "instruction book" about achieving this purpose. A little about our religion. There is nothing "formal" in it!

The Samaritan woman - we must also repent and put down our water pot. (mp3 format)

The Samaritan woman
By Priest Nicholas Park
John 4:5-42
2019-05-26
SYNOPSIS:Father Nicholas Park, in an extensive exegesis of the encounter of the Samaritan woman with Christ at the well, points out the many things she did which must be examples to us if we are to find salvation. Among them are that, when faced with her sins, she was silent and repentant, she listened and cared about theology, and she put down her water pot.

The encounter of the Samaritan woman with Jesus is a textbook, teaching us how we must live to be saved. (mp3 format)

John 4:5-42
2020-05-17
SYNOPSIS:The Samaritan woman, whom Jesus Christ met at the well, became equal to the apostles Photini (Svetlana, Claire, Clara). She was not living a righteous life, but that is not the most important prerequisite for finding salvation. The most necessary thing is to have a heart that is able to open to God- with holy desire, honesty, humility and zeal. St. Photini demonstrates to us principal personality traits that are necessary for salvation. Her conversation with Christ and her actions thereafter are like a textbook teaching us how we should live.

Healing of the Paralytic. Knowing the Hidden Reality. Paralysis and sin. (RTF format)

John 5:1-15
2021-05-23
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:In any given situation, there is an apparent reality, easily understood with our eyes and ears and human intelligence, and there is a hidden spiritual reality, which we often do not see and cannot understand. Victorious Christian living is only possible if we develop the skill to see the inner reality of things. The story of the healing of the paralytic demonstrates this hidden reality, and how we must react to it. We are all paralytics. What paralyzes us?

The Blind Man

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Blind Man
2001

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Blind Man
2002

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Blind Man
2003

6th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Blind Man
2008-06-01
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

6th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

The Blind Man
2010-05-09
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Blind Man
Courage Precedes Full Enlightenment
John 9-1-38
2011-05-20

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Passage Through The Red Sea As A Type Of The Theotokos
2011-05-29

6th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

The Blind Man
What Must I Do To Be Saved
John 9-1-38
2011-05-29
Also in Format: mp3

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Blind Man
Courage And Honesty
John 9-1-38
2013-06-09

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Blind Man
Be Open To The Truth
John 9-1-38
2014-05-25

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Blind Man
Courage
John 9-1-38
2015-05-18

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

The Healing Of The Blind Man As A Parable
John 9-1-38
2016

6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Fathers Of The 1st Council
Truth Only In The Church
John 17-3
2017
SYNOPSIS:6th Sunday of Pascha

Sunday of the Blind Man. Total Healing only with flagrant honesty. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Blind Man
John 9:1-38
2017
SYNOPSIS:The Blind Man shows how we must react to grace. God will heal us, enhance our courage, give us knowledge and peace, but not if we do not react to the grace He gives with honesty. The story of the healing of the Blind man is a case study of the necessity of honesty when we encounter God.

Review of the Sundays of Pascha, and the unifying theme: Fire in the belly! (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Blind Man
2018
SYNOPSIS:All of the Sundays of Pascha, from Thomas Sunday, the Myrrh-bearing women, the Paralytic, the Samaritan woman and the Blind man, have compelling stories, with a unifying theme: You must have fire in your belly! Whether we are beset by ignorance, sins, confusion - whatever - none of this will matter if we have fire in our belly! All these stories who how God reacts to our desire, and overcomes our problems.

Sunday of the Blind man. Asking the right questions. (mp3 format)

By Priest Nicholas Park
John 9:1-38
2019-06-02
SYNOPSIS:Like the disciples of Jesus in the Gospel today, we seek to understand the reasons behind our misfortunes and difficulties; but perhaps in our pursuit we are asking the wrong questions. Instead of focusing on our circumstances and faults, how do we discover what is most important for us in our lives?

Sunday of the Blind man - enlightenment is a process, and we must supply labor and courage. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Blind Man
By Priest Seraphim Holland
John 9:1-38
2019-06-02
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the Blind Man, like all of the Sunday Gospels during the Paschal season, important teaching for us - the PROCESS of enlightment. It is not easy, or automatic. To obtain it, we must syupply labor, and courage, and know who we are and what our purpose in life is. God will supply all grace needed as we make mistakes along the way. Also, a little bit about pursuing enlightenment while living in Austin, Texas.

Do you want healing? Know the obvious and react to it, with courage and intellectual honesty, like the blind man. (mp3 format)

2021-06-06
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the blind man is the story of our healing. It is a story of accepting God’s providence in all things and knowing things that should be obvious but unfortunately are not obvious to those who are not living a vigorous interior life. All of this is possible if we react to the things that God puts in our path. The trick is learning which things are from God in which things are temptations, but even temptations can be used by God to bring us to healing.

Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Fathers First Ecumenical Council
2002

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

2008-06-08

7th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)

2009-05-31
Also in Format: mp3

7th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)

Holy Fathers Of The First Ecumenical Council
John 17-1-13
2010-05-16
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Holy Fathers Of The First Ecumenical Council
High Priestly Prayer Of Jesus Christ
John 17-1-13
2011-06-05

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Fathers First Ecumenical Council
That They May Be One
John 17-1-13
2012-05-27

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

That They May Be One As We Are
Reintegration Of The Faculties Of The Soul
John 17-1-13
2013-06-16

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

That They May Be One As We Are
Reintegration Of The Faculties Of The Soul
John 17-1-13
2013-06-16
SYNOPSIS:First, a little bit of basic literacy about the First Ecumenical council and Jesus' emphatic expressions of unity and equality with His Father. We then emphasize how Jesus' unity with the Father is the model for our salvation - the powers of the soul - the appetitive, knowledge and irascible - are integrated in the soul in perfect unity with each other, as God is one with Himself. This is important stuff - it is salvation defined in a very deep and mystical way, and you should be aware of it happening in you

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Old Testament Is Not So Hard
Do You Therefore Love Strangers Because You Also Were Strangers In The Land Of Egypt
Deuteronomy 18-11-15-17-10-14-21
2014-03-31

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Fathers First Ecumenical Council
God Is One Salvation Is To Be One
John 17-1-13
2014-06-01

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

Fathers First Ecumenical Council Arius
That They May Be One As We Are
John 17-1-13
2015-05-24

7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)

1st Council
Exegesis Of High Priestly Prayer
John 17-1-13
2016

Four practical ways for those in the church to fulfil the prayer of Christ: "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God" A guest homily by Papa Demetrios Carellas. (mp3 format)

7th Sunday of Pascha: Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
John 17:3
2017-05-28
SYNOPSIS:A homily by Papa Demetrios Carellas. A very practical exegesis of John 17:3: "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." First, a discussion of where the truth it - only in the church, and then, practical advice about how to live according to this truth, in our daily lives - think ONLY about our own sins, JUSTIFY the other person ALWAYS, and DO NOT jump to conclusions, and do not make a runway for your thoughts!

The High Priestly prayer, for each of us to ponder. (mp3 format)

Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council, 7th Sunday of Pascha
John 17:1-13
2018-05-20
SYNOPSIS:The high priestly prayer of Jesus is a great opportunity to read scripture with purpose. Everything we read should encourage us and help us to change our behavior. We look at the High Priestly prayer in a practical way, for the benefit of our soul, including a practical, personal interpretation of the words of Jesus: "Thou hast given him power over all flesh", and "keep through Thine own name those whom Thou hast given Me, that they may be one, as We are", whether or not sinners can have any chance to be as the apostles, of whom Jesus said: “they have kept thy word”, and of course: “this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.“ Sunday of the Fathers, of the 1st Ecumenical Council, 7th Sun of Pascha, 2018-05-20

The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus, and 4 definitions of salvation. (mp3 format)

Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
John 17:1-13
2019-06-09
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel reading for the Sunday of the Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council, which follows the Feast of the Ascension, is from the High Priestly prayer of Jesus Christ, since the counsels were instrumental in protecting the dogmas regarding Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity. This prayer defines salvation in four different ways, and these definitions are also an instruction about how to live.

12nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)

Young Rich Ruler
Answer Every Question Ask The Right Questions
Matthew 19-16-26
2014-08-31
SYNOPSIS:Answer every question in the scripture! There are no rhetorical questions. Look carefully at the answers Jesus gives to questions. He often answers what the question should have been! Be careful to ask good questions and recognize stupid ones. The rich young ruler asked a bad question. Jesus rebuked him on two counts, and taught clearly, for those who have eyes to see, and ears to hear, the way of salvation, and the purpose of life. This answer is directly opposed to the minimalist spirit of this age, with its pseudo-Christianity. We can do no "good" thing, because only God is good. The way to salvation is not by doing one or a million good things, although we must attempt to follow the commandments. Jesus gives the way to salvation - not being good enough, but fulfilling the great commandment - to love the Lord with all the heart, soul, mind and strength - which He defines here as "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven." Read the Gospels every day (or it will be as hard for you to be saved as the rich man), and you will learn the purpose of life - perfection! The Lord tells us that "With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

Weekday Readings during Paschaltide

Bright Monday (mp3 format)

Important Truths Are Rarely Said Absolutely Unambiguously
No Man Hath Seen God At Any Time And Make Straight The Way Of The Lord
John 1-18-28
2011-02-25

Bright Monday (mp3 format)

Bright Monday Ministry And Baptism Of John
How To Read The Old Testament
John 1-18-28
2014-04-21

Bright Monday (mp3 format)

The Person Jesus
Who Are You
John 1-18-28
2016-05-02

Bright Monday: the resurrection is happening RIGHT now. Two lessons from the Paschal hymns (mp3 format)

Bright Monday
2019-04-29
SYNOPSIS:On Bright Monday, at liturgy, some thoughts about the secret to triumphant Christian living which is contained in two lessons from the Paschal hymns. 1. Because of the resurrection, we are headed towards INCORRUPTION, and it is happening in us RIGHT NOW. 2. Even though life is messy, it is happening, RIGHT NOW. Also an explanation of how the fear of death leads to sin, but believing in the resurrection removes the fear of death, and therefore, sin, and the difference between Western understanding of the resurrection and the Orthodox understanding.

The Love of God for man described by the latchet of a sandal – an image of the incarnation. (mp3 format)

John 1:18-28
2020-04-20
SYNOPSIS:In the Gospel on Bright Monday, St. John the Baptist described in a mystical way the incarnation when he said: "He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose." These words describe the intimate love God has for man and we contrast them with the relatively recent heresy, somewhat more than 500 years old, in which God is described as a God of anger and judgment, and that the Son died on the cross to appease the anger of the Father. This Gospel refutes this heresy, which is completely foreign to Orthodox Christianity.

Bright Tuesday (mp3 format)

Bright Tuesday
The Road To Emmaus
Luke 24-12-35
2014-02-22

Bright Tuesday (mp3 format)

Road To Emmaus
Hearts Burning God Opens Eyes
Luke 24-12-35
2016

The road to Emmaus and mysterious things and the indispensability of the Eucharist for enlightenment. (mp3 format)

Bright Tuesday & the 5th Matinal Resurrectional Gospel
Luke 24:12-35
2018-04-10
SYNOPSIS:After saying "Christ is risen" in many languages including "Texan", we talk about the mysterious road to Emmaus. There many tantalizing things in this story, such as - why did the disciples not recognize Jesus, but the most important take-home here must Be that even after being enlightened by our Lord describing Himself iin the Scriptures, the apostles did not know Him until He gave them the Eucharist. The Eucharist is indispensable for enlightenment.

The Road to Emmaus. Our hearts must be burning too. (mp3 format)

Bright Tuesday
The Road to Emmaeus
Luke 24:12-35
2019-04-30
SYNOPSIS:The Resurrectional Gospel from Luke about the encounter of Jesus Christ with two of His disciples on the road to Emmaus is read on Bright Tuesday. We discuss why this is read, even though the Gospel of John is read for almost every other day in the Pascha period, and that this encounter must be like our life. Our hearts must also burn. What is this "burning"?

The Road to Emmaus - We all are on this road – how man encounters God (mp3 format)

Luke 24:12-35
2020-04-22
SYNOPSIS:On Bright Tuesday, we read the account in St Luke of the road to Emmaus, when he and fellow disciple Cleophas encountered Jesus on the road and did not recognize Him but their hearts burned within them, and then they recognized Him in a moment of perfect clarity when they sat down to eat and He broke bread. We are on this road. This is how man encounters God. It would be good for us to learn from their experience.

"Where are you staying?" "Come and see." (mp3 format)

Bright Wednesday
John 1:35-51
2019-05-01
SYNOPSIS:What will Jesus answer us if we asked him, as Andrew did: "Where are you staying?". We must ask this question and also respond to His answer: "Come and see", in a spiritual way. What is this way? Also: Why are the doors to the altar opened during Bright week? And why are they closed on Saturday? How is the book of John different than every other book in the bible?

Bright Thursday (HTML format)

2009-04-23
Also in Format: Word DOC

Bright Thursday (mp3 format)

That Which Is Born Of The Flesh Is Flesh And That Which Is Born Of The Spirit Is Spirit
The Encounter With Nicodemus
John 3-1-15
2011-02-28

Bright Thursday (mp3 format)

Bright Thursday Nicodemus And Christ
Spiritual Vs Flesh And Remembrance Of Death
John 3-1-15
2014-04-24

Bright Thursday (mp3 format)

Pascha Traditions
2014-04-24

Bright Thursday (mp3 format)

Bright Thursday Nicodemus And Christ
Living Spiritually Listening To Our Heart
John 3-1-15
2015-04-16

The heart feels as the eyes read: the Encounter of Nicodemus with Jesus Christ. (mp3 format)

Nicodemus and Christ
John 3:1-15
2018-04-13
SYNOPSIS:On a Bright Thursday, a more leisurely look at the encounter of Nicodemus and Christ. In a Sunday sermon, a priest must hone in one 1 point or 2, but here we speak from the heart – the heart reacts as the eyes read - this is how we should encounter the scriptures.

Bright Thursday: The encounter with Nicodemus is all about learning to live in a spiritual way. (mp3 format)

Bright Thursday
John 3:1-15
2019-05-02
SYNOPSIS:The encounter of Jesus with Nicodemus teaches about baptism, the cross, the divinity and humanity of Jesus, and above all, how to think and live spiritually and why this is important. Our exegesis of this very important encounter covers these things, and always focuses on living spiritually. This is an important life skill, and the Gospel of John teaches it more than any other scripture.

Bright Friday (mp3 format)

Bright Friday Lifegiving Spring
Let This Mind Be In You Which Was Also In Christ Jesus
Philippians 2-5-11
2015-04-17

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus..." (mp3 format)

Bright Friday
Acts 3:1-8 : John 2:12-22 : Philippians 2:5-11 : Luke 10:38-42: 11:27-28
2019-05-03
SYNOPSIS:The scriptures must be applied! We savor all 4 of the readings today, and discuss having the mind of Christ, "nice" Jesus (He does not exist in the church), always giving back when given a blessing, the complete and total absence of legalism or formalism in the church, and acquiring moral authority.

Bright Saturday (mp3 format)

Most Important Happiest Saddest Day Of The Year
2015-04-18

It is not about me! It is about Jesus Christ, who healed me, and it my job to proclaim Him to others. (mp3 format)

Bright Saturday
John 3:22-33 : Acts 3:11-16
2019-05-04
SYNOPSIS:A homily by Fr Nicholas Park. Both the Epistle and the Gospel today on Bright Saturday have a central teaching: it is not about me, it is always about Jesus Christ. We must always be asking ourselves about the thing we are doing/teaching/desiring/being - is it about me, or is it about Jesus Christ?

Weekday Readings after Pascha

2th Tuesday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Football Signs
Light And Darkness
John 3-16-21
2016

2th Wednesday after Pascha (mp3 format)

2011-05-04

2th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

John 5-24-30
2011-05-02

2th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Scripture Is Easy To Understand
Childrens Sermon
John 5-24-30
2012-04-26

2th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Salvation Is A Journey From Death To Life
John 5-24-30
2015-04-23

Passing over from death to life, as the world teaches, legislates, and tries to force man to be in death as if it is life. (mp3 format)

John 5:24-30
2021-05-13
SYNOPSIS:The process happening to true Christians RIGHT NOW- is passing over from death to life. This must be remembered - in the heart - especially during our times which are mistaking death for life, and criticizing and even forbidding that which is life, and requiring – in practice, opinion and law – that which is death. An exegesis of a selection from the Gospel of John, which we read when we commemorate the reposed, and which teaches us how to live to pass over from death to life. John 5:24-30 Thursday, 2nd Week of Pascha (Antipascha)

Healing of the nobleman’s son, servant of the centurion, and daughter of Jairus, each with 3 kinds of faith – compared. (mp3 format)

John 4:46-54 : Matthew 5:22-43 : Luke 8:41-56 : Matthew 8:5-13 : Luke 7:1-10
2019-05-13
SYNOPSIS:Today we read about the healing of the nobleman’s son. This man had enough faith that he believed the Lord when He said that his son would be would be healed. There are other healings that show other amounts of faith, one greater and one lesser. We compare this healing with the healing of the servant of Cornelius the centurion, and also the healing of the daughter of Jairus. The Lord will meet us at the point we are with a faith that we have at as long as we are doing the best we can.

3th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Acts 8-26-39-John 6-40-44
2011-05-12

3th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Trash
Trucks-Belief-And-Victorious-Living
2021

The preaching of Jesus Christ about God was completely different than anything the world had ever known. To this day, it is still different. The Christian God is not appeased or placated. We do not offer Him anything in order to change His actions towards us. Jesus showed that God wants to give Himself to us in order for us to become like Him. This is still revolutionary. Exegesis of a portion of St. John’s gospel in the sixth Chapter. (mp3 format)

John 6:40-44
2021-05-21
SYNOPSIS:The preaching of Jesus Christ about God was completely different than anything the world had ever known. To this day, it is still different. The Christian God is not appeased or placated. We do not offer Him anything in order to change His actions towards us. Jesus showed that God wants to give Himself to us in order for us to become like Him. This is still revolutionary. Exegesis of a portion of St. John’s gospel in the sixth Chapter.

The hard sayings of Jesus. (mp3 format)

4th Monday of Pascha
John 6:56-69
2019-05-20
SYNOPSIS:Today we read in the Gospel that after many heard the Lord Jesus speak about His body and blood, they left Him, saying: "This is an hard saying; who can hear it?". Believing, following and ordering our life by the "hard sayings" of the Scripture is part of that answer to the question we often hear: "How is Orthodoxy different than (fill in the blank?)". We talk about this hard saying and how a person must live in order to follow hard sayings. Simon Peter gives us one of the necessary things we must do: we must order our life to show we really believe what he told the Lord: "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life."

The "nice Jesus" of modern pseudo Christianity has a devil. (mp3 format)

John 8:51-59
2019-05-27
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of a selection from the Gospel of John when the Jews accused Jesus of having a devil. Jesus reacted to their accusation by teaching of His equality with the Father, that is, He is God, while also being man. Modern pseudo-Christianity, which believes in a "nice Jesus" who accepts basically anything, has a devil. The Jesus Christ that we believe in is not a so-called "nice Jesus", but is the God man, and is truth. truth. It is important for Orthodox Christians to recognize the modern rhetoric which has a devil. We cannot recognize this rhetoric without recognizing Who Jesus is, and living according to this understanding.

5th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

The Sheep Follow Him For They Know His Voice
John 9-39-10-9
2012-05-17

The sheep know Him, because they know DOGMA and always, with it morality (mp3 format)

5th Thursday of Pascha
John 9:39-10:9
2019-05-30
SYNOPSIS:The ONE primary purpose of the Gospel of St John. The 2 components to everything in the Gospel of John: DOGMA, and because of DOGMA, and with DOGMA, morality. Today's selection is a good example, showing the immorality of the ruling elite, the dogma of Who Jesus Christ is, and our reaction to this dogma, as His sheep, who know Him, because we follow Him. If we follow the shepherd (this is not just belief in Him), we see what is true and know what is true. The ruling elete, who opposed Jesus, did not follow him, and therefore saw what is not there, and "knew" things that are not true. The application to our days must be understood.

The sheep must work to continually recognize their shepherd. (mp3 format)

John 9:39-10:9
2021-06-03
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on John 9:39-10:9, the reading for this Thursday, and also St Constantine and Helen whom we commemorated today. We need to recognize who the shepherds are because only the shepherds enter by the door of the sheepfold. We talk in blunt terms about apparent Orthodox shepherds who are teaching a strange teaching and therefore are thieves and robbers, and how to live so that we will hear the voice of the shepherd and recognize him and no one else as our shepherd. Our words will be appreciated by some, hated by others, and perhaps redirect some to renewed vigor in living a life so that they can recognize the shepherd in our time of many false shepherds.

What is the "good ground" and what do we do to become and remain the good ground? (mp3 format)

Matthew 13:10-23
2019-07-22
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Sower is explained in the Gospel read today. The most important part is understanding what is the good ground and how to become the good ground.

6th Wednesday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Leaving Of Pascha Transitions Receive The Light
2019-06-05

6th Thursday after Pascha (HTML format)

Ascension
2009-05-28
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Exegesis Of Old Testament Parables Read During Ascension Vespers
2011-06-01

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Childrens Sermon
2011-06-02

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Human Nature Deified Holy Spirit Sent Judgment To Come
2011-06-02

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Why Stand Ye Gazing Up Into Heaven
Acts 1-1-12
2013-06-15

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Time To Do Something Now
Acts 1-1-12
2014-05-29

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Three Things
2016
SYNOPSIS:6th Thursday after Pascha

6th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Ascension
Three Things
Acts 1-1-12
2016

3 main things about the Ascension, then the take home - Christianity is active! (mp3 format)

The Ascension
2017
SYNOPSIS:There are three very important things a Christian must know about the Ascension, but knowing stuff does not help a person unless he acts on his knowledge. The end of the account of the Ascension shows Christianity is active! We must work, and learn, and change, based on the grace God gives us.

Ascension: He bare them, and carried them all the days of old. (mp3 format)

Ascension
Isaiah 62:10-63:3: 63:7-9
2021-06-10
SYNOPSIS:On the feast of Ascension, we begin with story of a young child snuggling on his mother’s shoulder and how this image is much like a selection from one of the readings for this feast: "in his love and in his pity he redeemed them; and he bare them, and carried them all the days of old." (Isaiah 63:9). We do a mini catechesis about the Ascension and discuss its four most important theological aspects.

7th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

John 16-23-33
2013-06-20

7th Thursday after Pascha (mp3 format)

Do Ye Now Believe
John 16-23-33
2015-05-28

Feasts of the Savior, Ascension

The Ascension changes everything! (mp3 format)

The Ascension
2018-05-17
SYNOPSIS:Stories provide powerful incentives for changing our behavior. We look at the Ascension story, which is also a dogmatic fact and how it should influence our behavior – it should change EVERYTHING! - and also the 3 dogmatic pillars of the event of the Ascension.

Feasts of the Savior, Nativity

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
1996-12-29
Also in Format: Word DOC

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Sunday of the holy forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2001

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper An Invitation To Become Not To Eat
Colossians 3:4-11 Luke 14:16-24
2007-12-30
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper An Invitation To Become Not To Eat
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2007-12-30
SYNOPSIS:Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Luke 14:16-24
2008-12-28

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2009-12-27

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2010-12-27
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great Supper is explained, and compared with the Parable of the Wedding Feast, and selection from Colossions is related to the inner meaning of the parable.

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
Why Be Good
Colossians 3-4-11
2011-12-24

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper Compel Them To Come In
Luke 14-16-24
2011-12-25

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Go Out Into The Highways And Hedges And Compel Them To Come In That My House May Be Filled
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 14-16-24
2012-12-30

The Great Supper is about the Incarnation and the common reactions to it. It also gives the only way to be saved: URGENCY! (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers The Great Supper
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 14-16-24
2013-12-20
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great supper is read 2 Sundays before Nativity. It describes the Incarnation, and men's common reaction to it. The complimentary Epistle describes the way we should react. The Gospel also describes the virtue which we must have to be saved, whether we are good or bad - URGENCY!

The Parable of the Great Supper teaches "good anger" compels the soul to live righteously. (mp3 format)

Luke 14:16-24
2014-12-28
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great Supper is always read 2 Sundays before Nativity. We explain the parable (which, appropriately, is about the incarnation, how men react to it, and how it effects us), and then get to the important part - application to the spiritual life, and the peculiar statements: "Then the master of the house being angry..." and "Compel them to come in." There is a mystical teaching here about the important and good passion of anger, and how it is used to save the soul, and how the soul is compelled to act righteously. This "compelling" does not violate our free will - on the other hand, it must be born voluntarily from deep within us, voluntarily, and energized by good anger.

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Parable Great Supper
Incarnation
Luke 14-16-24-Col 3-4-11
2015

Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Parable Great Supper
Incarnation
Luke 14-16-24-Col 3-4-110
2015
SYNOPSIS:Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ

The Great Supper. Choosing to not be free. (mp3 format)

Two Sundays before Nativity The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11 Luke 14:16-24
2017-12-24
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great Supper is read 2 Sundays before Nativity, and also a passage from Colossians; both are about the incarnation and what our reaction to it must be, in this life, and the future. If we are to truly "put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him" (something possible ONLY because of the incarnation), then we must take to heart the spiritual meaning of the king’s instructions to his servants, when he told them to search for the most sinful, broken souls and "compel them to come in" to His supper. If we understand the incarnation, we will, in imitation of the Incarnated One, be COMPELLED from within to CHOOSE to not be free, so that we may someday be "free indeed".

The parable of the Great Supper. Compel them to come in! (mp3 format)

Colossians 3:4-11 Luke 14:16-24
2018-12-30
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the Great Supper is about the incarnation, and is read two Sundays before Nativity. Near the end of the parable, the master of the house, that is, God, tells His servants to: "Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled". This word "compel" is a compelling and even controversial word. The epistle helps explain what this word means. Everything in Christianity is lived in the heart.

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
2003

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Two Geneologies
Matthew 1:1-25, Hebrews 11:9-10,17-23,32-40
2007-01-06

"And the wolf shall lie down with the lamb." Change within the human heart is now possible! Vespers on the Eve of Nativity. (mp3 format)

Isaiah 11:1-10
2007-01-06
SYNOPSIS:A short reflection on the text from Isaiah 11:1-10, read during Vespers on the Eve of Nativity: "And the wolf shall lie down with the lamb." This describes the change possible in the human heart made possible only because of Jesus Christ.

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2009-01-04

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Saint John Of Kronstadt, and The Purpose Of The Incarnation, "Ye shall be children of the Highest"
Luke 6:31-36
2010-01-02
SYNOPSIS:On this Sunday before Nativity, St John of Kronstadt is also commemorated, and the Gospel for him and his life perfectly describes the purpose of the Incarnation. This Gospel contains our Lord's admonishments to love, using concrete examples, and concludes with the promise "And ye shall be children of the highest". This is the purpose of the incarnation, and examining this Gospel along with St John's life, which struggled to fulfill it illuminates this purpose for us, therefore, on this Sunday when we read the "Begats", it is appropriate to delve into what is means to be children of the highest, and how and why we can attain this high calling. We also suggest another way to describe the "Golden Rule" and what should be our inner motivation for loving our fellow man, and doing anything that is good in this life.

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
A Life Parable In The Kindness Of Joseph
Matthew 1-1-25
2010-01-03

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
The Geneology Proves Jesus Saves All Humanity
2012-01-06

The kindness of Joseph and faith of our Fathers. Sunday before Nativity. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2014-01-05
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Nativity, we read form the beginning of Matthew and the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews. We can learn much from the kindness of Joseph, and the patience of our Fathers. Without kindness and patience, we will not experience God, or know him. Lets us learn from their example.

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

God Is With Us
Matthew 1-1-25
2015
SYNOPSIS:The primary meaning of Nativity may be summed by the name "Emmanuel", God is with us. We talk about prayer and its one main purpose, and also the liturgy and all prayer in the church. It is to have God be with us, to be in his presence and even with Him in us. We should experience God, more than when we experience the sun when we are in its presence. Everything we do should be to experience God and be in His presence. .

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

God Is With Us
Matthew 1-1-25
2015

Sunday before Nativity: The geneology tells us God can make anything good. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2015-01-04
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Nativity, the Genealogy, from Matthew, is read. This is a "rougues gallery" of people, and the spiritual meaning is clear. God can make anything good. He is always in control. We have no excuses if we are bad. This is not a reason to stop trying, only this will cause us to fall. If we try, God will make the bad good. This is truly good news!

Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday Holy Fathers
Joseph The Betrothed Jesus Christ Emmanuel
2016

Learning what "by faith" and "emmanuel" means, from our Forefathers, and Uncle Izzie. (mp3 format)

Sunday before Nativity, the Holy Fathers.
Hebrews 11:9 Matthew 1:23
2017-12-31
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Nativity, which commemorates our Holy Fathers (the ancestors of Christ), a story from Father Moses Berry, about Uncle Izzie, which teaches us who our Fathers and about our Forefathers, and what "by faith" and "Emmanuel" - God is with us - means in our practical, daily lives.

The incarnation is an act of patience, that teaches and enables us to have patience. Without patience, there is no faith. (mp3 format)

Hebrews 11:9-10,17-23,32-40
2020-01-05
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Nativity, we read in the epistle of Hebrews about the patience and obedience of the Old Testament fathers. Some call this passage the hall of faith. It could just as well be called the hall of patience. Without patience, and its sister and mother, obedience, there is no faith. Because of the incarnation, we can work out our salvation with patience.

Nativity of Jesus Christ (Adobe PDF format)

God Has Entered The Bosom Of Human Life Nativity
Justin Chelije
1970
Also in Format: Word DOC

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

2002

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

2004

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

The Real Christmas Story
Galations 4:4-7
2007-01-07

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

The whole meaning of Christmas is in today's epistle
Galatians 4:4-7
2009-01-07

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

2010-01-07

Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Eve of Nativity
We worship Thy Nativity O Christ, show us also Thy divine Theophany
2011-01-06
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:At the Vesperal Divine Liturgy on the Eve of Nativity, a homily about on of the hymns of the Royal Hours. It expresses the connection between Nativity and Theophany, and especially how we must feel and what we must desire as we contemplate the incarnation. "Today He Who in essence is God intangible and holdeth all creation in His hand is born of the Virgin and creation in His hand is born of the virgin and wrapped in swaddling bands. He lieth in a manger Who established in a manger Who established the heavens by His word in the beginning. He is fed at the breast with milk Who rained down manna upon the people in the wilderness. The Bridegroom of the church summoneth the magi; the Son of the virgin receiveth their gifts. We worship Thy Nativity, O Christ! We worship Thy Nativity, O Christ! Show us also Thy divine Theophany. "

Nativity of Jesus Christ (RTF format)

The meaning of Christmas: "Abba, Father".
Christological exegesis of Nativity Epistles
Galatians 4:4-7 Hebrews 2:11-18
2011-01-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:During the Advent season, the "Meaning of Christmas" is often referenced, and most of the time, it is far from the truth, and even hackneyed and shallow. This homily does an almost line by line exegesis of the Epistle Read on Nativity and one of the Epistles read the day before, explaining the true meaning of Christmas and why and how we achieve this meaning. This is heavily Christological, but as all true theology is, also quite practical and about things that are ultimately important in life.

Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

St Gregory The Theologian (nazianzen)
2011-the-wonder-of-the-incarnation
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Read this homily of St Gregory the Theologian (Nazianzen) carefully! It is a materpiece of Christological theology and rhetoric, and while accurately declaring important dogmas, it also captures the wonder of the incarnation. We MUST feel this wonder if we are true Christians.

Nativity of Jesus Christ (RTF format)

Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
1 4
2012-01-05
Also in Format: mp3

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
4 8
2012-01-06

Nativity of Jesus Christ (RTF format)

Hymns Of Nativity
History Meditation Theology
2012-01-07
Also in Format: mp3

Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Meaning Of Nativity
Abba Father They Departed Into Their Country Another Way
Galations 4-4-7-Matthew 2-1-12
2012-01-07

"They departed into their own country another way" The incarnation provides us another way! We are born for to live, not die. (RTF format)

Matthew 2:1-12 Galatians 4:4-7
2014-01-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel on Nativity does *not* contain anything about the day of the birth of Christ, but rather is something that happened perhaps weeks after: the visit of the wise men. There is a very important reason why - it is similar to the reason we do not directly reference the resurrection on Pascha. The Nativity of Christ (the incarnation) does not change us unless we chose *another way* of living. The decision of the wise men, after they worshipped Christ: "And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way." - teaches us that the incarnation is precisely so that we can live our lives in *another way* - not as mere men, but as "God-men". who have been adopted as sons of God.

Nativity of Jesus Christ (Word DOC format)

_2015+-from-the-womb-before-the-morning-star-have-i-begotten-thee_psalm109 From The Womb Before The Morning Star Have I Begotten Thee
Psalm 109
2015

Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Holiness Amidst Mundane
Meaning Of Christmas
Galatians 4-4-7
2015
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

From the heart of a pastor on the Nativity: the meaning of Christmas. (Word DOC format)

Galations 4:4-7
2015-01-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:A pastor wants to share from his heart especially during the great feasts. The meaning of Nativity, superbly explained by the words of the Apostle: "when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. 6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ." Also a comment about "Russian Christmas" and an invitation.

Nativity of Jesus Christ (RTF format)

Emmanuel God Is With Us
Never Lonely 2
2018
Also in Format: mp3

Nativity. Emmanuel, God is with us. We will never again be lonely. (HTML format)

2018-01-07
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The meaning of Nativity is described in one word – “Emmanuel”, which means “God is with us”. Man was made to be with God, always, but sin made him lonely. God became man – so that He would be us – so that He would be with us – so that we would be able to never be lonely again.

Answer the question! What shall you do because Christ has raised up the image that fell of old? (mp3 format)

2020-01-06
SYNOPSIS:Look to the services of the church to understand theology and the feasts of the church year. Many celebrate the Nativity of the Savior, but do not know *exactly* what its purpose was, and what it accomplished. We look at two hymns from the pre-festal services, which describe not only what happened, but also challenges us to tell (by our actions) what we are going to do about it.

"Once Mary, being with child by a seedless conception, * was registered in Bethlehem with the aged Joseph as being of the seed of David. * The time came for the birth, and there was no room in the inn; * but the cave proved a delightful palace for the Queen. * Christ is born to raise the image that fell of old." (Troparion of the Eve of the Feast of the Nativity of the Lord, in Tone IV)

"What shall we offer Thee, O Christ, for Thou hast appeared on earth as a man for our sake? For every creature made by Thee doth offer Thee thanksgiving: the angels, a hymn; the heavens, a star; the Magi, gifts; the shepherds, their wonder; the earth, a cave; the wilderness, a manger; and we, the Virgin Mother. O God Who wast before the ages, have mercy on us." (The Vesperal Liturgy For The Nativity Of The Lord, Lord I have Cried, T2)

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Sunday After Nativity
1999

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (Adobe PDF format)

Sunday After Nativity
2000
Also in Format: Word DOC

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Sunday After Nativity
The Slaughter Of The Holy Innocents And Free Will
2000
Also in Format: Word DOC

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
2008-01-11
SYNOPSIS:1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
How Can We Make Sense Out Of The Senseless
Galatians 1:11-19, Matthew 2:13-2
2008-01-13

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
Things are not as they seem!
2009-01-11

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
Matthew 2:13-23
2010-01-10

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
2010-10
SYNOPSIS:1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
How To React To Evil
Matthew 2:13-23
2011-01-09
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after Nativity, we commemorate King David, Joseph the Betrothed, and James, the Brother of the Lord. The Gospel reading is about the Flight into Egypt. It teaches us how to react to evil. This is the opposite of the way the world reacts. We must learn this way if we are to understand anything about God - this is the way of meekness, the patience of faith and humility.

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Sunday After Nativity
Joseph The Betrothed
2011-01-09
Also in Format: Word DOC

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Regular Everyday Christianity And Knowing The Will Of God
Flight Into Egypt
Matthew 2-13-23
2013-01-13

Why these 3 today, the Sunday after Nativity? What can we learn? Short lives of David the King, Joseph the Betrothed & James the Brother of the Lord. (mp3 format)

Sunday After Nativity
2014-01-12
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after Nativity, we remember David the King, Joseph the Betrothed & James the Brother of the Lord. Why? There are good spiritual reasons. what can the life of each teach us about how to live?

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)

Nativity Canon Exegesis
David Joseph James Stories
2015
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

God is in control. Life of James the brother of the Lord. Everybody should be "Priest for a day" (mp3 format)

Matthew 2:13-23
2015-01-11
SYNOPSIS:The most important aspect of the Gospel after the Nativity is that God is in control, always, but we rarely know the full story. We must learn to trust. Lots of other things were talked about too - the life of St James the brother of the Lord, the horrible death of Herod, about interpreting dreams, and how to learn to trust in God. Also that we all struggle, and the thought experiment of being "priest for a day", which would teach everyone that we all struggle in similar ways with similar things, and that the only solution to things we do not understand and that are too big for us (things which happen every day) is prayer. Everybody is struggling. If everyone was priest for a day, they would pray more and be more sure that their small struggle would be increased by God and they would be saved.

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Sunday-After-Nativity
2015-01-11

1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)

Matthew 2-13-23
2015-01-11=sunday-after-nativity=god-is-in-control-life-of-james-brother-of-the-lord-priest-for-a-day

Sunday after Nativity. Now what shall we do? (mp3 format)

Matthew 2:13-23
2020-01-12
SYNOPSIS:A discussion of what we should do AFTER a feast (this is much more important than what we do on the feast itself!), with a recounting of the historical events of Nativity and the visit of the wise men, and the virtues of James the betrothed, James, the brother of the Lord, and David, the Prophet and King.

How to live in our difficult days? With integrity. And "Christian violence." David, joseph and James teach us how. (RTF format)

Sunday After Nativity
Matthew 2:13-23
2021-01-10
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The lives of the Prophet and King David, Joseph the betrothed, James, the brother of the Lord, give us abundant examples of how we should be living in our difficult times. We discuss violence. Not the violence that occurs in our society but Christian violence, the right kind of violence. We also discuss what we should do as our society appears to become less free. We talk about the major answers to these problems, violence:expressed by frequent prostrations, prayer, and personal integrity.

Feasts of the Savior, Theophany

Two Sundays before Theophany (mp3 format)

2004

Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)

2004

Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)

The "beginning" of the Gospel is accomplished every day.
Mark 1:1-8
2009

Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)

Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord Make His Paths Straight
Mark 1:1-8
2011-01-10
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Theophany we read from the beginning of the Gospel of Mark 2 important prophesies regarding the ministry of Jesus Christ, and regarding the ministry of John the Baptist. The "baptism of John", and of Christ, and our own is explained, and the admonition of St John: "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight", which applies to each one of us, all the time, is explained. There is a very important nuance of meaning that is missed by too many Christians. Our life must be a continual attempt to obey this admonition, and without our effort to do so, we cannot be saved, while, on the other hand, our success in fulfilling this command does not determine if we are saved either. This is the old faith vs. works argument, which, for those who were not raised in the church, can be very confusing. It is actually quite easy to understand (after you have understood it!). Our baptism, and all that God does to give us His grace, enables us to become perfected and to know Him. We are responsible for trying, and only because of His help, we will succeed. Overall, if our life is an effort to fulfill this commandment, we will be saved.

The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and baptism, and the end, where we will have fought the good fight and finished the course. Readings for the Sunday before Theophany explained. (mp3 format)

Mark 1:1-8 2Timothy 4:5-8
2012-01-15
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday before Theophany (the baptism of Jesus Christ), we read from Mark about the "beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ" and about the baptism of John, which is a vivid type of Christian Baptism. The entire selection, form Mark 1:1-8 us explained, and especially how John's baptism (of repentance) is different (and the same) as Christian baptism. It is also appropriate on this day to think about the eventual fruit of baptism, which is human perfection and union with God, and the passage of 2Timothy 4:5-8 presents us with a beautiful "after" picture. This is our destiny, if we accept baptism and work to attain it.

"Christ has appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters." Exegesis of the Pre-festival Troparion for theophany, and WHY THE THEOPHANY at the baptism of Christ? (mp3 format)

2014-01-18
SYNOPSIS:What happened at the baptism of Christ? The pre-festival troparion explains it. Why did the Theophany (appearance the Holy Triniy) occur at the baptism of Christ? This is central to the purpose of the reason Christ was baptized, and how we are made - we differ from animals and angels in a critical way, which is mystically described at the baptism of Christ.

Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)

Theology Of Baptism
Holy Spirit In The Nostrils
Luke 10-1-15
2015

Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)

Mark 1:1-8
2015-01-18
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel read on the Sunday before Theophany helps us to prepare for the feast. This we must do and redo every day. We discuss the difference in how Orthodox Christians prepare for feasts. There was a messenger that heralded the coming of Christ, and we also have such a messenger - the conscience. We must learn to cultivate and listen to this messenger.

Purpose of Baptism. Searching for the image which had been buried by sin and the passions and restoring it and adorning it. (mp3 format)

Sunday before Theophany
2017
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of a verse in the Canon for the Forefeast of Theophany. " Thou didst light Thy precious flesh like a lamp in the midst of the Jordan, O Christ, and didst search for Thine image which had been buried by sin and the passions; and finding it, Thou didst adorn it with Thy baptism, O Good One. Wherefore, we hymn Thee. " (Ode 7) As we leisurely explain this hymn, we touch on the personality of the Gospel of Mark, a definition of the Gospel, the purpose of baptism, some of the scriptural allusions in this hymn, and - how do we apply it all?

Theophany, The Baptism of the Lord, & "Illumining". "To Fulfil all Righteousness." About Holy Water. (HTML format)

1999
Also in Format: Word DOC

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

2003

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

2004

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

Two Theophanies, 2 Baptisms
Titus 2:11-14:34-7, Matthew 3:13-17
2008-01-19

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

Baptism allows us to fulfil all righteousness.
Matthew 3:13-17
2009-01-19

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

The Grace Of God That Bringeth Salvation Hath Appeared To All Men
2011-01-19
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of the reason for the Lord's baptism, including the prophesies about the visible changes in the Jordan when the Lord was baptised.

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

Synaxarion For Theophany
2012-01-18

What does baptism do for us and what MUST we do after baptism? The moral dogma of baptism. (mp3 format)

That He Might Redeem Us From All Iniquity And Purify Unto Himself A Peculiar People Zealous Of Good Works
Titus 2:11-14: 3:4-7
2012-01-19
SYNOPSIS:The epistle for Theophany, the Baptism of the Lord, describes for us the purpose of baptism, and especially its "moral dogma". What is this? Most people know that Christianity rests upon various dogmas about God, such as that God is a Trinity of persons, and that the Son of God, Jesus Christ is God and man, but many do not know as well our moral dogmas. The Epistle to Titus describes both the dogma what Christian baptism does. and also the moral dogma concerning it - what we must do. If we do not understnad and embrace this dogma we cannot be saved.

Why a Theophany at the baptism of Christ? For the same reason that the Trinity was present at the creation of man. Deep and beautiful theology about baptism, and the image of God in man. (mp3 format)

Matthew 3:13-17 Titus 2:11-14,3:4-7
2014-01-19

Gregory Palamas: Purpose of the Baptism of Christ and struggle in the Christian life. (mp3 format)

Feast of Theophany
Matthew 3:13-17
2017
SYNOPSIS:Theophany, based on the theology of St Gregory Palamas (Homily sixty), and not only his theology, but the theology of the church. An exposition of the Gospel read on Theophany, Matthew 3:13-17. The baptism of John contrasted with Christian baptism. The difference between the baptism of Christ and all the others John baptized. What did Jesus mean when He said "Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness" Our baptism requires many things from us. It makes us capable of ALL of these things. An important segue about the weakness of our age and struggle in the Christian life, and that struggle and success are not synonymous, and that we must be kind and never give up, or we will not be saved, no matter what other virtues we may have.

Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)

Thus It Becometh Us To Fulfil All Righteousness
Matthew 13-15
2018

Theophany. Why was Christ baptized, why are we baptized, & what must resonate in our soul for us to be saved? (mp3 format)

Titus 2:11-14: 3:4-7
2019-01-19
SYNOPSIS:About why Christ was baptized, what happens to us when we are baptized. We also talk about the passage through the red sea, which points to baptism. Two kinds of people passed through the waters, but only one group was delivered. It is the same with Christian baptism, which has power, and purpose. If we do not live according to its purpose, we will not be delivered. If the words in the Epistle to Titus which we read today, and we discuss in detail, resonate in our hearts, nothing will keep us from our purpose and our deliverance.

Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)

2003

Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)

Sunday After Theophany
The Meaning Of The Winter Pascha; Our Nature Is Changed, We Are No Longer Captives
Ephesians 4:7-13, Matthew 4:12-17
2008-01-20

Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)

Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 4:12-17
2009-01-25

Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)

The Measure Of The Gift Of Christ
Ephesians 4:7-13
2011-01-23
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the epistle read for the Sunday after Theophany, Ephesians 4:7-13. Why is this epistle read? What is "the measure of the gift of Christ." "He led captivity captive" describes what Christ's death and resurrection did for us, and is a way of understanding the effects of sin.

The purpose of the church, and of baptism. (mp3 format)

Ephesians 4:7-13
2012-01-21
SYNOPSIS:The selection read on the Sunday after Theophany (Ephesians 4:7-13) is critical to understand in detail. It contains the important dogmas abuot Christ's descent into Hell, and the rarely understood dogma whoch I will express as a question: "What is the purpose of the church?" It is critical to understand the purpose if our life, and of the church, and how baptism affects both. The exegesis of this Epistle explains this. This is a very important 9 minutes for a Christian to understand.

How to answer temptations and what happens after baptism. (mp3 format)

Saturday & Sunday after Theophany
Matthew 4:1-11, Matthew 4:12-17
2012-01-22
SYNOPSIS:The history of what Jesus did after His baptism is critical for us to understand. He set the example, both by accepting baptism and showing us what we MUST do after baptism. Let' look in detail at how to encounter temptation, which will surely come to us. We must be ready.

"Every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." Do not be afraid to struggle for perfection! (mp3 format)

Sunday After Theophany
Ephesians 4-7-13
2013-01-20
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Sunday after Theophany, although it does not mention the word, is all about baptism. St Paul teaches us what our Lord's baptism did for us, and its end result - perfection. We look at this passage in detail, with its hopeful and intricate theology, which urges us to not be afraid to struggle for perfection!

Christology 101: Grace, The descent into Hades,unity, salvation and being truly human DEFINED PROPERLY - it is all in here: Ephesians 4:7-13 (mp3 format)

Ephesians 4:7-13
2013-11-07
SYNOPSIS:Ephesians 4:7-13 is a virtual primer on some of the most import Christological subjects. It is read on the Sunday after Theophany, and also for certain Saints in the Menaion, such As Oct 25 (Marcian & Martyrius, notaries). In this short passage we learn of the descent into Hades, and see salvation, Unity and being truly human defined properly. St Paul is expressing thoughts dear to all Eastern Orthodox Christians, and sometimes not understood so well in the West. We look at these amazing verses: "Every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ" "He led captivity captive" "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ"

"Unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ": the purpose of baptism explained. (mp3 format)

Ephesians 4:7-13
2014-01-26
SYNOPSIS:Why this reading from Ephesians on the Sunday after Theophany? It contains the end result of baptism, and one of the best "definition" of salvation: unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ". It also has marvelous Christology that many have never heard of, even in the church. Let us marvel at it, and be strengthened in our struggles.

Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)

The Measure Of The Stature Of The Fulness Of Christ
Eph 4-7-13
2016
SYNOPSIS:Ephesians 4:7-13, read on the Sunday after Theophany, is, appropriately, describing what happens AFTER baptism. We explain the phrase " the measure of the gift of Christ", and why St Paul modified the Psalm he quoted, from "received gifts from men" to "gave gifts to men". We discuss a common and deadly way to look at God, and the proper way, and spend a lot of time on the phrase: "unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ".

Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)

The Measure Of The Stature Of The Fulness Of Christ
Eph 4-7-13
2016

Becoming human. We are able, because of baptism. (mp3 format)

Ephesians 4:7-13
2017-01-22
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Epistle Reading for the Sunday after Theophany (Eph 4:7-13), with emphasis on our only task in life, made possible because of baptism - Becoming human. According to the words of the apostle "the grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ (begun at baptism) leads us to "the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ" This is the process of becoming fully human. In the perfect man, Jesus Christ, there is no sin or dark passions, and we will get there because we are able.

Feasts of the Savior, Transfiguration

Transfiguration (Word DOC format)

Notes

Transfiguration (HTML format)

Human nature in the midst of the Divine.
Luke 9:28-36 (The Gospel For Matins)
2008-08-19
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:There is a startling contrast between Moses and Elias and the Apostles during the Transfiguration. The Apostles show they were not yet ready to fully experience Divine nature because of their sleepiness, confusion and fear. Moses and Elias were perfectly at peace in the midst of the uncreated light. Humanity was created to be able to perceive the Divine uncreated light, but we must be prepared for it.

COMMENT:You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms: YouTube, Yahoo, MySpace, Metacafe, Google, Revver, DailyMotion, Blip.TV, Veoh

Transfiguration (mp3 format)

2009-08-19

Transfiguration (mp3 format)

A Prophesy Of Things To Come
Partakers Of Divine Nature
2010-08-19

Transfiguration (mp3 format)

Illumined With Effulgence Of The Virtues
To Be In The Presence Of God
Vespers Aposticha For The Prefestival Of The Transfiguration
2011-08-17
SYNOPSIS:The most important aspect of the Transfiguration of our Lord on Mount Tabor is that it is a harbinger of things to come. The apostles were not ready to be in the presence of the divine uncreated light of God, and yet in the end we all will be in His presence. What must we do to become ready? The aposticha for the forefeast teaches us: "Illumined with the effulgence of the virtues, let us proceed to the holy mountain, that we may behold the divine Transfiguration of the Lord." (Vespers Aposticha, August 5, Forefeast of the Transfiguration). Let us look at what happened to the apostles and why and what we must do as the aposticha teaches.

Transfiguration (mp3 format)

Old Testament Appearances Of Jesus Christ
Exegesis of the Parables For Transfiguration Vespers
Exodus 24:12-18 : Exodus 33:11-23: 34:4-6, 8 : 1 Kings 19:3-9, 11-13, 15-16
2011-08-18
SYNOPSIS:Similar events to the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ occured in the Old Testament. Three selections from the Old Testament are read during the Vespers, involving Moses twice and also the Prophet Elijah. These parables are briefly explained.

Transfiguration (mp3 format)

2011-08-19

Transfiguration (mp3 format)

Revealing The Human Form I Emit Unapproachable Light Having Put On All Of Adam And Transformed Human Nature
Transfiguration Matins Teaches Us The Meaning Of The Feast
2011-08-20

Exegesis of Vespers readings on Transfiguration: typology and moral instruction. (mp3 format)

Exodus 24:12-18 : Exodus 33:11-23: 34:4-6,8 : 1 Kings 19:3-9,11-13,15-16
2012-08-18
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Vespers readings (parables, paremia) for the Feast of the Transfiguration, with emphasis on typology, especially comparing the Theophanies Moses and Elijah experienced to the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor, and the significant moral instruction these events give us, when viewed in a Christian light.

Transfiguration: Welcome to the future and examples of how to attain it in the present. (mp3 format)

2012-08-19

Transfiguration:A foretaste of what is promised: to be in the presence of God. (mp3 format)

2 Peter 1:10-19
2015
SYNOPSIS:Transfiguration is a foretaste of what is promised: to be in the presence of God. We discuss the reaction of sinful men when they are the presence of God, and the answer to the riddle: Why do we still sin? It is because we have not fully experienced the light of God. We discuss the BEST and most powerful reason to fight against sin. It is not because of the commandments or fear, or desire for reward. The Apostle Peter explains: "We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty."

Transfiguration: Why? Meaning and Implications? Timing? (mp3 format)

2017-08-19
SYNOPSIS:What is the Transfiguration? What are the implications? When did it occur and why?

An experience in Dachau explains the meaning of the Transfiguration. (mp3 format)

Transfiguration
2018-08-19
SYNOPSIS:An experience by St. Nikolai Velomirovich in Dachau concentration camp teaches us the most important and primary meaning of the Transfiguration. If we believe this, truly believe it, it will change everything we do, think, say and care about.

Our future told in the Transfiguration vs our ***apparent*** present reality. (mp3 format)

2018-08-20
SYNOPSIS:On the day after the Transfiguration and in the midst of it after-feast, thoughts about the reaction of the apostles, and the mystery as to why we say we believe and yet do the things we do. A work of turn-of-the-century Russian fiction called "The Archbishop", which tells about overcoming the cognitive dissonance in life, since we know God is so good, and yet we are not, and we and our neighbors do not appear to be getting that much better helps us to understand how the vision of the Transfiguration will help us to overcome the ***appearance*** of our present reality.

Transfiguration (Adobe PDF format)

Our Future
Eyewitnesses Of His Majesty
2 Peter 1-10-19-Rus
2019
Also in Format: Word DOC

The Transfiguration. Why were Moses and Elijah present? (Word DOC format)

Transfiguration Aug 6/19
2019-08-17
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:When Lord Jesus Christ was transfigured why were the specific prophets Moses and Elijah present? There are many reasons, we describe them.

The Transfiguration. We have seen our future, and we should live according to it in the present. (Adobe PDF format)

Transfiguration
2 Peter 1:10-19
2019-08-19
Also in Format: Word DOC or Русская версия PDF or Русская версия RTF or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The feast of Transfiguration, the "Summer Pascha", shows us our future. Because we have seen our future and indeed will also be eyewitnesses of the majesty of God, we must live differently in present. There is a rule of thumb for life. The Apostle Peter, in his reminisces shortly before his death by crucifixion teaches us, as one who was an eyewitness of the majesty of Jesus Christ about this rule of life.

COMMENT:Also in Russian: Russian - Word doc<r> Russian - PDF

Transfiguration (Word DOC format)

Leavetaking
2019-08-27
Also in Format: mp3

Transfiguration: The Greatest Feast? Knowing our future *always* tells us what we should do. (mp3 format)

2021-08-19
SYNOPSIS:The provocative title of this sermon posits that in at least one way Transfiguration is the greatest feast of the year. Of course Pascha, the resurrection, is considered to be the greatest feast but it does not show our future; it only promises it. The Ascension shows some of our future, because we know that it is a prophecy that we indeed will rise in the heavens body and soul just as Christ did however Transfiguration intimately shows our future; We will be with God and in His light. Knowing this must motivate everything we do, no matter how difficult our times are. We will look at the words of Peter, who was on the mountain and who clearly was guided in everything he did by his memory of the Transfiguration on the Mount.

Transfiguration: Why is it during a fasting period? (mp3 format)

Why Is It During A Fasting Period
2021-08-20
SYNOPSIS:Transfiguration is the only fixed calendar feast of the Lord that occurs during a fasting period. We explain the liturgical reasons why and also the spiritual reason why it is very appropriate.

Feasts of the Savior, Exaltation of the Cross

Exaltation of the Cross (HTML format)

The Cross Is the Sign of Christianity, A Christian Cannot Be Without His Cross: On the Inevitability of Suffering
By New Hieromartyr John, Archbishop of Riga and Latvia
Also in Format: Word DOC

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

John 12:28-36, 1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2008-09-27

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday Before The Exaltation
A promise that only one man can deliver, after the cross.
John 3:13-17
2009-09-20

Exaltation of the Cross (HTML format)

We Preach Christ Crucified
What is the way of the cross?
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2009-09-27
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Main points of this homily, which may express my deepest Christian feelings more than any other homily I have ever spoken: What is the preaching of the Cross? The preaching of the Cross is preaching about the way of the Cross. ** Our Lord spoke about the way of the Cross. It's rather mysterious, really. And the reason it's mysterious is because of our sins, because the way of the Cross is the way of life; and yet, in order to gain it, we must die. The way of the Cross is the way of joy -- or to joy. But in order to gain it, we must undergo tribulation and be sad. ** This is the way of the Cross: To know that you are missing something that is so critically important to your soul; to know that you're missing wisdom and compassion and gentleness and humility and wholeness. And that the only way to gain this is to follow Christ and to cleave to Him, to hold onto Him, no matter what. ** If your heart doesn't ache for what you should be and what others should be, then you're not following the way of the Cross.

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday After The Exaltation
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2009-10-04

Sunday Before the Exaltation of the Cross. We are saved from the poison of our passions and sin through the Cross. Exegesis of John 3:13-17tag1:Sermons (HTML format)

Sunday Before The Exaltation
2010-09-26
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:An explanation AND APPLICATION of the Gospel on the Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, John 3:13-17, which has the famous verse: John 3:16. The more important part of the passage describes the standard with the serpent on it which Moses lifted up in the wilderness. The cross and the resurrection must be thought of in the same breath, and how we must live because of the cross. Excerpt ... Our poison is sin. Our poison is passions. We are saved from our passions and sin through the Cross. Why? Because the Son of Man has the authority to lay down His life and to take it up again. And He would shortly lay down His life and take it up again. He has the authority to change our nature such that we no longer would be held by death. That is what happened after His death on the Cross. He descended into Hades of His Own will and filled Hades with His divinity and broke the gates of Hades. We sing about this in Pascha, and actually we sing about it every Saturday evening. And in breaking those bars, breaking the bonds that hold humanity when they die, He made us capable of ascending. ...

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday After The Exaltation
Two Identical Definitions of Christianity. What is the way of the Cross? Important questions we must answer.
Galatians 2:16-20, Mark 8:34-9:1
2010-10-03
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle and Gospel for the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross both contain identical 'definitions' of Christianity. They both involve the cross, which is an instrument of death and of life. All Christians must voluntarily be crucified with Christ, and take up their cross. This is explained by our Lord's instruction that we must 'lose' our life to save it, and His questions: For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? We must understand this if we are to truly live the Christian life and know Christ.

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday Before The Exaltation
Two Hymns Explaining What Happened On The Cross
2011-09-24

What does this mean - God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we have this treasure in earthen vessels? (mp3 format)

Sunday Before The Exaltation
2 Corinthians 4:6-15, Galatians 6:11-18
2011-09-25
SYNOPSIS:On this Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, two of the epistle readings (2 Corinthians 4:6-15 and Galatians 6:11-18) relate directly to the cross. St Paul states emphatically: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." What does it mean to "glory" in the cross? People glory in many things - wealth, attractiveness, popularity, political correctness, having a good marriage, job, etc. None of these things is glorying in the cross. We answer this important question, and also why we who are "new creatures" because of the cross "have this treasure in earthen vessels".

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

The Length And Height Of The Cross Is Equal To Heaven
Praises-Matins
2011-09-26

The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (mp3 format)

The Preaching Of The Cross Is To Them That Perish Foolishness; But Unto Us Which Are Saved It Is The Power Of God
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2011-09-27

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday After The Exaltation
Christ Liveth In Me
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:4-9:1
2011-10-02

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

God Forbid That I Should Glory Save In The Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Sunday Before Exaltation Of The Cross
Galations 6:11-18
2012-09-22

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Blessed Is The Man That Findeth Wisdom And Is Rich In Prudence
Proverbs 3-11-18
2012-09-27

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

For The Preaching Of The Cross Is To Them That Perish Foolishness But Unto Us Which Are Saved It Is The Power Of God
1 Corinthians 1-18-24
2012-09-27

"I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me" - the Cross and the REMEMBRANCE OF DEATH, which is the ONLY way of life. (mp3 format)

Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2012-09-30
SYNOPSIS:We begin with an admonition from the Apostle Paul, in the selection read on the 17th Sunday after Pentecost: "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." This is the what, but most of a pastor's life is spent explaining the how, which the readings for the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Precious cross do very well. The Epistle ends with the stirring words " I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me...", and the Gospel tells us that "Whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it ". These describe an attitude, a way of living. Without this attitude, we will not be able to make our way and be "perfecting holiness". One way to explain this attitude is to elucidate the uniquely ascetic and Orthodox understanding of the "remembrance of death"; this is CRITICAL stuff! We must understand this way of life, the ONLY way of life, which starts with baptism and the cross, and must continue in the way of the cross.

"God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." What does the world vs. Christians glory in? (mp3 format)

Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross
Galatians 6:11-18
2013-09-22
SYNOPSIS:"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." The world and true Christians "glory" in different things. What does a Christian "glory" in, how does he cultivate the proper things to "glory" in and what does this mean: "by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."?

Jesus connects the cross to love by saying "He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." followed immediately by "whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water ...shall in no wise lose his reward." (mp3 format)

Saturday before the Exaltation of the Cross
Matthew 10:37-11-1
2013-09-26
SYNOPSIS:The way of the Cross is to love. Jesus makes this connection, not in so many words, but nonetheless, emphatically for those who understand by stating quot;He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." followed immediately by "Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water ...shall in no wise lose his reward." The giving of water is symbolic for a particular kind of love that a Christian must have if he is to truly a Christian.

"I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:" The way of the cross is to choose to not make a choice! It is the easy and light way! (mp3 format)

Sunday after the Exaltaiton of the Holy Cross.
"The things I used to do, I don't do no more"
Galatians 2:16-20
2013-09-29
SYNOPSIS:When the Apostle Paul exclaims extravagantly: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:", he is teaching us how to think, and how we think determine what we become. If we live by this amazing statement. we choose to give up our will, and therefore refuse to choose to sin. This is the light and easy way compared to the way of the world. The cross is not an instrument of suffering and the way of the cross is the only way that leads to happiness. We must understand the words of the apostle if we are to fully give up our will to this way. In so explaining, we even quote an old Blues song, whose secular wisdom directly applies to our choosing to be crucified with Christ: "The things I used to do, I don't do no more"

Exaltation of the Holy Cross: The way of the cross is not suffering; It is love without limits. (mp3 format)

2014-09-27
SYNOPSIS:The Orthodox understanding of the Cross is not like the view of the West. We see victory, and resurrection, and healing. There is suffering when one follows the way of the cross, but suffering in and of itself is not the way of the cross! Our Lord said: "If I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." His purpose to get on the cross was to draw all men to Him, and not to be punished. How does He draw us? Love without limits. We even work in an old Hollies Song to illustrate the point, and reword it a little from its original: "He ain't heavy, he's my brother"

"I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." (mp3 format)

Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross
Galatians 2:16-20
2014-09-28
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after the exaltation of the Holy Cross, we read these words of St Paul: "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." What does it mean to be crucified with Christ? this is a voluntary act of the will, since Christ voluntarily went to the cross. The West thinks of the cross as punishment, but if we ascend the cross with Christ, and Christ is punished in our place, our presence on the cross is superfluous! This is not why we put ourselves on the cross. We must understand this doctrine, and the cross is not about punishment, or even, primarily, suffering; it is because of voluntary love and the giving of ourselves to others. This is the good news! Let us understand it and rejoice in it!

Exaltation of the Holy Cross. What is the Preaching of the Cross, which is foolishness to them that are perishing, but for us is the power of God? (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2015
SYNOPSIS:Exaltation of the Holy Cross. What is the Preaching of the Cross, which is foolishness to them that are perishing, but for us is the power of God? We look a little at what happened on the cross, a subject which our minds are to feeble to fully understand, and more at how we should live because of the cross. This is something we can understand by experience.

The connection between the Transfiguration, the Kingdom and the Cross (mp3 format)

Galations 2:20 : Mark 8:34-9:1 : 2 Corinthians 9:8
2015
SYNOPSIS:The Exaltation of the Cross and the Transfiguration of the Lord are linked liturgically and spiritually. The linking verse is: "there be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.". We explain the most important phrase in our Lord's command: "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. " and look at epistles which explain fully how to follow the Lord, and the end result of our labor. "I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me" "God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work"

" And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God." (mp3 format)

Galations 6:11-18
2015-09-20
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday before the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we read from Galatians, and encounter this verse: " And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God." We talk about what this "rule" is; it is an internal rule, a consequence of becoming a "new creature" in baptism. Let us evaluate how much we walk according to this rule.

We cannot have the earnest of the Holy Spirit unless we glory in the cross! (HTML format)

Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross
2 Corinthians 1:21-2:4 : Galatians 6:11-18 : 2 Corinthians 1:22 : Galations 6:14
2016-09-24
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:A serendipitous combination (not!) of the Epistle for the Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, and the Epistle read on the 14th Sunday after Pentecost. We define the "earnest of the Holy Spirit". This experience of God cannot be obtained unless we live according to the words of the apostle: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." Just 6 minutes, but very important.

Because we are new creature, our belief in Christ is not cheap. Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross (HTML format)

Matthew 22:1-14 : Galatians 6:11-18 : John 3:13-17
2016-09-25
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Sunday before the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. First a quick summary about the Parable to the Wedding Feast, so that we can discuss the concept of the wedding garment in the context of the pre-festal scripture read: "For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature" and "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." This latter scripture, so well known, but not well understood, tells us that salvation is through belief in Christ. If we understand what a "new creature" is, and the implications regarding our wedding garment, we will understand what "belief" in Christ. Our belief is not cheap, or malleable to whatever whim and fashion of the day holds sway, as in our day. It is wholly a product of us becoming new creatures and glorying in the cross. Matthew 22:1-14 Galations 6:15 John 3:13-17

I am crucified with Christ! We must live according to these words in order to understand or follow any command that leads to life (HTML format)

Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2016-10-02
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Homily on the Galatians 2:16-20, read on the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross, particularly: "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God" We will not understand the purpose or meaning of all the commands God gives us, nor be able to follow them if we do not understand and embrace the meaning of being crucified with Christ. This is not merely theological triva; it is the only way to live that gives life.

Symbolism of the cross, as it pertains to our relationship with Christ. The Good Thief. Reconciliation. (mp3 format)

Exaltation of the Holy Cross
2017
SYNOPSIS:The Symbolism of the cross, as it pertains to our relationship with Christ. The Good thief Dismas. Man is reconciled to God on the Cross, and not God to man, as the Western heresy believes.

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Fear Of Death Vs Preaching Of The Cross
1 Cor 1-18-24
2017
SYNOPSIS:Exaltation of the Cross

The symbol of the cross, and fulfilling the words: "I am crucified with Christ" (mp3 format)

Galations 2:16-20
2017-10-01
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross, we look at the cross as a symbol, in order to change our behavior. There are practical ways to put into practice the statement of St Paul, which describes the practical Christian life: "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God"

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday After Exaltation
Sophia-Faith-Hope-Love
2018

"As many as walk according to this rule..." Why the cross? What was accomplished on the cross? (mp3 format)

Galatians 6:11-18 : John 3:13-17
2018-09-22
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, the Epistle and Gospel readings tell us why the cross, what Jesus did on the cross, and what we must do because of the cross.

What is glorying in the cross, and being crucified to the world? It is living as a new creature, and according to the only rule that brings us peace and grace. (mp3 format)

Sunday before the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Galatians 6:11-18
2019-09-22
SYNOPSIS:The cross and baptism are linked. One cannot talk about one without the other. In the epistle today, the Apostle Paul shows this link. We also talk about what glorying in the cross is, and what he means when he says: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world" and "I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus". All of us must also glory in the cross, and bear these marks, and the promise will apply to us: "as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy"

The fear of death is the reason why the preaching of the cross is foolishness to the world. (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2019-09-27
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Epistle of St Paul, read on the day of the Exaltation of the Cross. In the midst of our discussion, we explain why the world sees the way of the cross as foolish, and also describe how a Christian will preach Christ crucified – this is not so much with words as by fulfilling the Christian dogma of giving up our life for another.

Why is the way of Christ the way of the Cross? (mp3 format)

Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2019-09-29
SYNOPSIS:The Readings on the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross are all about following Christ. Fr Nicholas discusses exactly what this is, and how we must do it, and why the world hates it. In so doing, he conducts a primer on basic Christological concepts, and answers the important question: "Why is the way of Christ the way of the Cross?". A shorter version of this homily, in Russian, is at:https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/exaltation-03_2019+the-way-of-christ+way-of-the-cross_russian.mp3

Why is the way of Christ the way of the Cross? - in Russian (mp3 format)

Galatians 2:16-20 : Mark 8:34-9:1
2019-09-29
SYNOPSIS:The Readings on the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross are all about following Christ. Fr Nicholas discusses exactly what this is, and how we must do it, and why the world hates it. In so doing, he conducts a primer on basic Christological concepts, and answers the important question: "Why is the way of Christ the way of the Cross?". A longer version of this homily, in English, is at:https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/exaltation-03_2019+the-way-of-christ+way-of-the-cross_gal2-16-20-mark8-34-9-1.mp3

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. (mp3 format)

John 12:28-36
2020-09-27
SYNOPSIS:On the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, we read the words of Jesus Christ, which predicted His death on the cross: "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me." We talk about how Jesus on the cross draws all men to Himself. The answer is very simple, and is the open "secret" to victorious living and understanding the power of the cross and the way of the cross.

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. (mp3 format)

We must know what is life and death in everything in order to take up the cross. (mp3 format)

Mark 8:4-9-1
2020-10-04
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross the Gospel includes the Lords invitation" Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.". in order to make a voluntary decision to deny ourselves and take up the cross and follow Jesus, we must know enough about life, and what is good and what is bad in order to make an informed decision. This knowledge must include understanding what is to save one’s life and what it is to lose it, and the answers to the questions:" For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" At the end of the sermon (18:38), since it was not given in the studio, there was the patter of little feet and the distraction of the children caused a very important conversation about the importance of children in the church, and the admonition that all Christians in the church must consider all children to be their responsibility and their joy, and the absolute necessity of praying for one another.

Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)

Sunday Before Exaltation Of The Cross
2021

The most pressing problem for everyone in the world, and how baptism and the cross solves it (mp3 format)

_2021+-cross-baptism+new-creature-seal-pledge-rule Cross Baptism
New Creature Seal Pledge Rule
John 3:12, 2 Corinthians 1:21-2:4, Galatians 6:11-18, Matthew 22:1-14
2021-09-27
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, we read "John 3:16 " – "For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life, ", and explain what famous verse really means, in the context of the seven newly baptized we received before liturgy today and how baptism in the cross are intimately related, and how becoming a new creature in baptism and acquiring the seal of the Holy Spirit and a mark upon us enables us to walk according to a new rule which is the only way of life.

Feasts of the Theotokos

Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)

Annunciation
A Homily By Saint Proclus

Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)

Entry Of The Theotokos
By Saint Gregory Palamas
Also in Format: Word DOC

Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)

Nativity Of The Theotokos
A Homily By Saint Andrew Of Crete

Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)

Nativity of the Theotokos, Sep 8/21
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus"
Philippians 2:5-11
2008-09-21
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Before the homily, a little bit about those special "moments of clarity" and what we should expect each time in the holy services. The homily addresses the Epistle reading, where the Apostle tells us: "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." This is the totality of the Gospel, just as the two great commandments are the totality of the law. If we fulfilled this command, we would never sin! Let us explore how to attain this "mind". Everything we do or think of doing should be evaluated in the light of this command. tag1:Philippians

Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)

Dormition
Explanation Of The Dormition Troparion
2009-08-28
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:We can learn what the church values most about the Theotokos from the Dormition Troparion: In giving birth thou didst preserve thy virginity, / in thy dormition thou didst not forsake the world, O Theotokos. / Thou wast translated unto life, / thou who art the Mother of Life. // And by thine intercessions dost thou redeem our souls from death

COMMENT:You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms: YouTube, Yahoo, MySpace, Metacafe, DailyMotion, Blip.tv and Veoh

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Dormition
After Liturgy Short Talk
2010-08-28

Entry of the Theotokos (Nov 21). One of the "Great Forgotten Feasts" because of our pride in this egalitarian age. Let us explore holiness; we are called to it also! (HTML format)

Luke 10:38-42: 11:27-28
2010-12-04
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Entry of the Theotokos is one of the "great forgotten feasts" in the church calendar, even though it is one of the "12 great feasts". There are good reasons for this - this feast is especially about holiness, humility and submission, which our modern egalitarian world does not understand. The Theotokos is holy because she chose to be holy, of her own free will. We do not denigrate her by thinking that God in any way made her holy by making her different in some way from the rest of humanity. The Gospel reading for this feast (and all feasts of the Theotokos) is explained in detail. It is a peculiar reading, because the Mary in the reading is not the Theotokos, and it is also a concatenation of two sections of Scripture that are not related in time to each other, but it describes fully the virtue of the Theotokos, which we must emulate. Let us be in awe of the holiness of the Theotokos and all the Saints, and see our destiny in them. Let us explore holiness in this arrogant and egalitarian age.

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

_2011-08-14+-pilate-and-govern-me-into-thy-sheltered-port-for-thou-art-author-of-good-things-and-staff-of-the-faithful_small-paraklesis-canon-ode-3-irmos Pilate And Govern Me Into Thy Sheltered Port For Thou Art Author Of Good Things And Staff Of The Faithful
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-3-Irmos
2011-08-14

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

I Came To Knowledge Of Thy Works
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-4-Irmos
2011-08-14

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Law Of God Understood In The Orthodox Way
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-5
2011-08-23

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Human Condition,elias,job,jonas,moses,david,peter Recognized Their Corruption
Demonic Audacity
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-6
2011-08-24

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

From My Youth Do Many Passions War Against Me
Hymns-Of-Ascent-Tone-4
2011-08-25

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

I Shall Commemorate Thy Name In Every Generation And Generation
The True Church Remembers The Theotokos
Prokeimenon
2011-08-27

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos
"Mary hath chosen that good part" and "blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it."
Luke 10:38-42,11:27-28
2011-08-28
SYNOPSIS:The usual reading for feasts of the Mother of God is actually a composite reading in which she does not appear at all, but another "Mary" (the sister of Lazarus) is mentioned, who shares her name. The reason why is because this selection, coupled with a later part of the same Gospel succinctly sums up the virtues of the Theotokos: "Mary hath chosen that good part" and "blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it." On this great day, let us examine ourselves, as to whether we have also chosen that good part, and kept the word of God. This is why we venerate the Most Holy Theotokos with such love; our veneration is in vain if we do not also emulate! Let us examine how we can accomplish this.

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Exegesis Of Gospel For The Theotokos
Small-Paraklesis-Gospel-Reading-Luke 1-39-49
2011-08-29

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Godly Sorrow
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Hymns-After-The-Gospel
2011-09-03

Dormition: Children's sermon (mp3 format)

Dormition
2012-08-28
SYNOPSIS:A homily/talk with the children about Dormition.

The Meeting of the Lord: The Song of Symeon must be our song at the end. (Adobe PDF format)

Meeting of the Lord
2014-02-15
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Dormition. Why do we know that the Theotokos is Ever-Virgin? (mp3 format)

Dormition
2014-08-288
SYNOPSIS:We venerate the Theotokos because of her great, voluntary holiness. Many people are not comfortable with this level of holiness. Many others, who read the Scripture without deep understanding, or think in secular ways, do not believe that the Theotokos was virgin before, during and after giving birth. The unanimous witness of the church on this dogma is clear to those who know such things scholastically, and our God-inspired services mention it often and scripture speaks of it in a type shrouded, and mystical way. There is however, one clear witness to her virginity that is not in books, but is in the heart, if it experiences even a little bit of holiness. We discuss this important witness, and also ways to learn of it.

Nativity of the Theotokos: Exegesis of the Old Testament Readings for the Feast. (mp3 format)

Nativity of the Theotokos
Genesis 28:10-17 Ezekiel 43:27-44:4 Proverbs 9:1-11
2014-09-20
SYNOPSIS:Nativity of the Theotokos: Exegesis of the Old Testament Readings for the Feast. We learn about the ladder reaching from earth to heaven, the ever-virginity of the Theotokos which was prophesied, and about the house which wisdom hath builded for herself.

Nativity of the Theotokos: "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." The Jesus Prayer (mp3 format)

Nativity of the Theotokos
The Jesus Prayer
Philippians 2:5-11
2014-09-21
SYNOPSIS:The epistle for feasts of the Theotokos is from Philippians, and contains this theologically rich command: "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Paul brackets this command with an explanation of the moral life we are to lead, and the theological significance of the incarnation. All this is good to know, but the most important thing to learn is how do we develop this mind in Christ Jesus. On the Nativity of the Mother of God, we contemplate the example of the Theotokos, who developed this mind. We look at how she did it, and give the most important practical advice that we MUST follow if we are to develop this mind.

Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. Entrance of the Theotokos. (mp3 format)

Luke 10:38-42:11:27-28
2014-12-04
SYNOPSIS:The typical reading at liturgy for feasts of the Theotokos us a curious composite selection of two events that did not occur in close proximity to one-another. This fact must mean that the selection is teaching us something important about the Theotokos. We discuss the reading, which beings with the story of Mary and Martha, and the complaints of Martha and the answer of Jesus, then segues to the cry of a woman in the crowd, and the answer of Jesus (usually not translated correctly): "Yea indeed, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it." We discuss why the Theotokos is so-called, and why we say "Most Holy Theotokos save us." It is all about the incarnation, and obedience, and the striving for holiness. We also discuss why veneration of the Theotokos is very important in our increasingly impure society.
COMMENT:Also on the Ancient Faith Radio Audio Blog "Redeeming the Time" playable here or downloadable here

Why are we here today celebrating Dormition? A spiritual answer. (mp3 format)

Dormition
Luke 1:39-49,56
2015
SYNOPSIS:We ask on the feast of Dormition, what is the purpose of this feast. This is a general question, and not about the theology of the feast and the historical event. It deserves a spiritual answer. Why do we come to church today? We have just finished reading the selection from the Gospel of Luke, about Mary Going into the Hill country and greeting Elizabeth, 14 days in a row, since it is part of the Paraclesis service (Service of supplication, when the supplicatory canon to the Theotokos is swung in sweet melody; we serve it every day during the Dormition fast). We also read it during matins for the feast, as we do for all the feasts of the Mother of God. It tells us of a holy moment, which should be our ultimate goal. Let us meditate for a little while in wonder, mixed with desire and regret, on the important words from Luke: "And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit".

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Nativity Of The Theotokos
The Closed Gate
Ezekiel 43-27-44-4
2015

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Nativity Of The Theotokos
The Spiritual Ladder
Genesis 28-10-17
2015

"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus..." Why is this read on Feasts of the Theotokos? How to change the mind. All theology is moral. (mp3 format)

Dormition
Philippians 2:5-11
2015-08-30
SYNOPSIS:Philippians 2:5-11 is read on feasts of the Theotokos. We ask why. This is one of the most important Christological passages in the Scripture. We do an exegesis of it, emphasizing two points. 1. We must continually be changing and renewing our mind. How is this done? This is a skill that all Christians must learn, or else they are not really Christians. 2. All theology, all dogma is moral. That is, if your knowledge does not directly affect the way you live, and continually change the way you live, it is useless for the salvation of your soul.

But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part. (mp3 format)

Entry of the Theotokos
Luke 10:42
2016-11-21
SYNOPSIS:On feasts of the Theotokos, such as her Entrance, which we celebrate today, we read a concatenated reading from Saint Luke (Luke 10:38-42; 11:27-28). Information is USELESS unless it changes the way you live. We will talk about her great virtue: "But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part". We MUST choose this good part to be saved, and it is actually a choice between life and death, moment by moment

The Mystery before time began explained, and how man can become a god explained - in one hymn. (mp3 format)

Annunciation
Lazarus Saturday
Doxasticon For The Feast Of The Annunciation, The Composition Of Theophanes, In Tone II
2017-04-07
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of a Doxastikon (theological hymn of praise about the Theotokos and the incarnation) for the feast of the Annunciation, which was sung on the Eve of the Saturday of Lazarus. This hymn links the two feasts, and all the great feasts. It is the "mystery hidden from before time began", and explain exactly what the incarnation accomplished. We never think of the Theotokos without the incarnation, and what the incarnation consisted of and what it accomplished - sinful man can become a god! We explain this audacious, but scriptural transformation - from a deceived man, a failure, to a god. This hymn is one of the best examples, but still only one of hundreds which explain the incarnation and salvation to the faithful who read the services and are zealous to hear the hymns, interrupting their daily routines in order to hear about the bread from heaven.

Dormition Scriptures. The point is the mind of Christ and the good part, and how to acquire them. (mp3 format)

Dormition
Phillipians 2:5-11 : Luke 10:38-42,11:27-28
2017-08-28
SYNOPSIS:On the Dormition, an exegesis of the readings for the feast, with an emphasis on the mind of the Theotokos and the mind of Christ and how to aquire this mind - that is point of Christian life! - and why we venerate her so highly.

Meeting of the Lord: The Song of Symeon and the only way to pursue peace, personally, or in society. (mp3 format)

Meeting of the Lord Feb 2/15
2018-02-15
SYNOPSIS:The reason why the sinless Lord Jesus Christ gave a sin offering. The song of Symeon, and the reason why Symeon was waiting over 200 years for the Messiah. Commentary about the recent tragic shooting in a school in Florida, and the beginning of the song: "Lord, now lettest Thy servant depart in ***peace***." About the search for peace, and the turmoil in the world. Only in Christ we will find peace, or even pursue peace in society.
COMMENT:The school shooting referred to occured 2/14/2018 (ns), in Parkland Florida. An expelled student came to his former school, and apparently indiscriminately shot people in the school. Some general categories for prayer (which were mentioned in the homily) are online at https://www.orthodox.net//trebnic/general-categories-for-personal-prayer.doc & https://www.orthodox.net//trebnic/general-categories-for-personal-prayer.pdf

The Dormition Troparion and Kontakion explained (mp3 format)

Dormition of the Theotokos
2018-09-01
SYNOPSIS:The purpose and general content of the Troparion and Kontakion and explanation of the ones sung on the Dormition of the Theotokos.

The Nativity of the Theotokos. Because of her, we are no-longer barren, nor aliens. (mp3 format)

Nativity of the Theotokos.
2018-09-21
SYNOPSIS:The Nativity of the Theotokos. Because of her, we are no-longer barren, or aliens. Exegesis of a hymn from the Vespers service: "Today is the pronouncement of universal joy! Today the winds have blown which herald salvation, and our nature is released from barrenness! For the barren woman is shown to be the mother of her who remaineth virgin even after giving birth to the Creator, from whom God taketh to Himself that which is alien to Him by nature, and Christ, the Deliverer of our souls, Who loveth mankind, doth accomplish salvation for the lost by means of flesh. "

The Annunciation and the connection between belief and obedience. (mp3 format)

The Annunciation and 4th Sunday of Great Lent the exorcism of the demoniac son.
Luke 1:39-49, 56 Mark 9:17-31 Hebrews 2:11-18
2019-04-07
SYNOPSIS:The Discussion of the obedience of the Theotokos and how without obedience we have nothing. This is juxtaposed to the statement and lament of the man who had a child who was demon possessed: "Lord I believe, help my unbelief". Before belief is obedience. Before understanding is obedience. Before peace is obedience. We also talk about the Epistle to the Hebrews which discusses the incarnation, and the scriptural account of the Annunciation. It is impossible to speak of the Theotokos without speaking of the incarnation.

Dormition and our pursuit of holiness (Adobe PDF format)

Dormition
Luke 1:39-49,56
2019-08-16
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:During two prison visits on the 2nd day of the Dormition fast, I sang the Small Pareklesis and preached on the Gospel from Luke appointed for it, about the Theotokos and holiness. Christians should pursue holiness. It is the entire goal of our life, because God is Holy. We discuss the difference in the understanding of what salvation is for an Orthodox Christian vs. other Christian faiths, and about the pursuit of holiness and how the Theotokos is an example of holiness, and why we talk so much about her. Since our goal is to become holy, we come up with a "rule of thumb" to evaluation everything we do in life.

Dormition. The Good part, the mind of the church, and holiness (mp3 format)

Dormition
Philippians 2x:5-11 Luke 10:38-42: 11:27-28
2019-08-28
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of the Gospel and the Epistle read on a feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos. We emphasize the good part, the mind of the church, and holiness.

Celebrating barrenness beginning to become fruitfulness. The Nativity of the Theotokos. (mp3 format)

Nativity of the Theotokos September 8
2019-09-21
SYNOPSIS:We look at the hymns from Vespers for the Nativity of the Theotokos, which are especially about the theme of barrenness coming fruitfulness. There are actually three ways in which the birth of the Theotokos was or began the process of barrenness becoming fruitfulness.

Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)

Meeting Of The Lord
2020

Dormition story with important dogmas regarding the Theotokos. (mp3 format)

2020-08-15
SYNOPSIS:We tell the story of the Dormition of the Theotokos, with emphasis on why it is the last Great Feast of the Church year, and discuss very important dogmas regarding her conception, the Annunciation, her giving birth to Christ, and her Dormition.

Nativity of the Theotokos:2 feasts, 2 beginnings,and exegesis of the Troparion and Kontakion (RTF format)

2020-09-21
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The celebration of the Nativity of the Theotokos is just before the Exaltation of the Cross, and these two feasts at the beginning of the liturgical year are two different kinds of beginnings. We also explain the Troparion and the Kontakion for the feast, and why we say “Most Holy Theotokos” save us, and why we venerate the Theotokos so highly, and that we always think of the Theotokos in the context of her great ministry to mankind, being the birthgiver of God, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Christ.

The Power of the Most High shall overshadow thee. The Annunciation and our future. (mp3 format)

Annunciation, The-Power-Of-The-Highest-Shall-Overshadow-Thee
2021-03-25
SYNOPSIS:The Archangel Gabriel told the Mother of God that the power of the Most High would overshadow her, and then that which would be conceived in her would be by the Holy Spirit. Was this just a one off? Or can the Holy Spirit overshadow us, and can we have anything in us it is conceived by the Holy Spirit? The Annunciation is the perfect example of a mere mortal human being overshadowed by God, but a similar future is ours if we want to struggle for it.

Dormition. The Life of the Theotokos is filled with mysteries and prophesies. (mp3 format)

Mysteries And Prophesies
2021-08-28
SYNOPSIS:The Dormition of the Theotokos, and her entire life, is filled with mysteries and prophesies. We begin by singing in a very unsophisticated way, the troparion of the dormition, then explaining two of its mysteries and prophecies, and then discuss other mysteries in her life. These prophecies are about us! Looking at the life of the Theotokos we can easily understand why her Dormition and translation into heaven, body and soul, is in obvious fact. We must apply these mysteries to our lives and we talk about practical things we should be doing.

Nativity of the Theotokos. Deliverance will always come quickly. (mp3 format)

2021-09-21
SYNOPSIS:The Nativity of the Theotokos is the first feast of the church year, and her Dormition is the last. We reflect on how these "bookends" can point to the beginning and the end of our salvation. The “beginning” of the gospel began with Jesus Christ but Jesus Christ the man began with the Theotokos, and the Theotokos was born in time, an obscure holy girl, and only 15 years later, the Lord Jesus Christ would be born in only a short time after that He would select His disciples, and preach and heal, and die on the cross and resurrect Himself, and ascend to heaven and send the Holy Spirit to us. And we see the end result of all this in the Dormition of the Theotokos when a mere dead human being, is brought to heaven, with a perfected body and soul. We also reflect on how the deliverance of God will not be denied. Everything will happen in the right time, and will not be slow according to God’s plan although sometimes we think deliverance is coming slowly. It is not coming slowly, and it is coming

Feasts of the Saints

June 29

Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. What defines the ministry of the Apostles?
Peter's confession.
The hundred and fifty three fish and the Restoration of Peter.
The life of the Apostles and the church is built upon the bedrock of the confession of faith. tag1:John (HTML format)

Matthew 16:13-19 John 21:15-25
2008-07-12
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

July 04

How were the martyrs "called according to his purpose"? How are we? Holy Royal Martyrs of Russia.tag1:Romans (mp3 format)

Romans 8:28-39
2008-07-17
SYNOPSIS:The reading from Romans describes in perfect detail the attributes of the martyrs. They and we are all "called according to His purpose", and whether we be martyrs or not, it is the same exact purpose, which the Apostle describes clearly.

July 13

Holy Fathers of The First Six Ecumenical Councils. The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Christ.tag1:John (mp3 format)

John 17:1-13
2008-07-27
SYNOPSIS:The High priestly prayer of Jesus Christ contains not only sublime dogmas about Jesus Christ, but also a two-fold definition of salvation, and an example of how to attain it: we must care for others as Jesus Christ did.
COMMENT:The Holy Fathers of the First Six Ecumenical Councils is celebrated on the Sunday on or after July 13

August 29

Beheading of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Possibilities and clarity, and the Kontakion of the feast.tag1:Sermons (HTML format)

2008-09-11
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts concering the Kontakion of the feast of the beheading of the Forerunner, and the precious gift of clarity of thought sometimes given especially during the early morning liturgy.

July 21

Saint John Maximovichtag1:Sermons (mp3 format)

2009-07-04

June 24

Nativity of John the Baptist. Exegesis of Vespers Parablestag1:Genesis (mp3 format)

Genesis 17:15-17, 19: 18:11-14: 21:1-8 : Judges 13:2-8, 13-14, 17-18, 21 : Isaiah 40:1-3, 9: 41:17-18: 45:8: 48:20-21: 54:1
2011-07-06
SYNOPSIS:The Vespers parables for the Nativity of St John are what we might expect: the stories of barren women who bare children (notable Sarah, who bore Isaac, and the unnamed mother of Sampson, wife of Manoah) and the seminal passage from Isaiah which prophesies the coming of the Forerunner, with the memorable line "The voice of one crying in the desert: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the wilderness the paths of our God"). What is important about these readings? Since the whole of the teaching of the Baptist was preparation via morality, we can expect there to be a heavy emphasis on how we should live. By the way, astute listeners will recognize that the second reading was incorrectly identified as referring to Hanna, the mother of Samuel, when actually the reading is about Sampson. Of course, Hannah was another barren woman who bore a child. Ooops.

Nativity of John the Baptist. The Teaching of John the Baptist Explained by St Paultag1:Romans (mp3 format)

Romans 13:11-14:4
2011-07-07
SYNOPSIS:The selection from Romans read for the Nativity of the Forerunner is a remarkable summary of the core teaching of St John the Baptist. Note that "teaching" is not plural, because, primarily, the Holy Forerunner was concerned with only one thing - preparing the way for the immanent appearance in the world of Jesus Christ, and he could only see one way to do this: "make his paths straight" We discuss how St Paul summarizes this teaching and also the wonderful assertion that " now is our salvation nearer than when we believed", which also applies very much to the ministry of St John, and should be realized by us each succeeding day of our life.

June 29

Two things that made the apostles great: "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God" & "therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities" (mp3 format)

Two things that made the apostles great.
"Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God" & "therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities"
Matthew 16:13-19 : 2 Corinthians 11:21-12:9
2011-07-12
SYNOPSIS:Our Lord asked two questions of His followers - one completely unimportant, and takes up too much of our time, and the other is of priceless important and should take up all of our time. St Peter answered correctly, with conviction: "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God." & This confession is part of what made the Apostles great. It is not a one-time answer, but must be answered with conviction, in all that we do. Our Lord told Peter that because of this confession, the gates of Hell would not prevail against the church. We examine this confession, and how the church endures. Part if the reason why the church endures is because of those who hold to the inner conviction the Apostle Paul had (and we must have): "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

Exegesis of Vespers readings for the Feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul and Differences between Peter and Paultag1:1 Peter (HTML format)

1 Peter 1:3-9 : 1 Peter 1:13-19 : 1 Peter 2:11-24
2011-07-12
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:A short exegesis of the 3 selections from the Epistles of the Apostle Peter, read at the Vespers for the feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul. The difference between their writings is explored. The Apostle Peter writes with simplicity and the conviction and wisdom that can only be gained by a life lived well, with many moral admonitions, based upon a deep understanding of what the God-man has done for us. It is like listening to your wise grandfather imparting his wisdom at the end of his life. He does not feel compelled to give detailed proofs, but he merely speaks with overpowering conviction because of experience. A few of verses from the selections are explored to illustrate this kind of "fireside chat" character of his writings. Those who are temped to call themselves Christians and still not heed the words of the Apostle " abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" should read the Apostle with greater care and humility. We are in an age that very much needs to heed the words of the Apostle Peter. There is also a short excursus into Peter's restoration and how he was able eventually to say to His Lord, not only did he have affection for Him, but that He loved him with an all consuming, perfect love. This love is only possible if the admonitions of Peter are heeded.

August 01

Procession of the Precious Cross and the Seven Maccabean Martyrs, with their mother Solomonia and teacher, Priest Eliazar. The Preaching of the Cross. (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 1:18-24, Matthew 10:32-33,37-38,19:27-30
2011-08-14

August 29

Beheading of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Exegesis of Vespers Readings.tag1:Isaiah (mp3 format)

Isaiah,Malachi,Wisdom
2011-09-11

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Beheading Of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner And Baptist John
Hidden Addictions And Passions Kill.
Mark 6:14-30
2011-09-11
SYNOPSIS:The story of the beheading of John the Baptist shows us how an ordinary life ends in death. Herod was an ordinary man, since he was ruled by his passions and sins (lust,adultery,ambition,drunkeness) and because of his indulgence in his passions, most if which he was not aware of, he was also a coward, and when he made an unwise oath, he was unwilling to renege on it to save face. Therefore, he had Saint john beheaded, who then passed into eternal life, and Herod continued his descent into eternal death. We explore especially how hidden passions (present in all of us!) can kill the soul.

September 23

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Conception Of The Venerable Prophet Forerunner And Baptist John
Childrens Sermon
2011-10-06

September 26

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Apostle John The Theologian Showed Perfect Love With A Robber
Exegesis Of Vespers Readings Especially The Heart And Love
2011-10-08

December 06

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Saint Nicholas The Wonderworker
Holy Art Thou O God And Thou Restest In The Saints
2011-12-19

January 24

Xenia of Petersburg with a little of Timothy of Espihmenou for good measure. How much do you love? (mp3 format)

20112
SYNOPSIS:Highlights from the life of Xenia of Petersburg, with the most important question for us: will we love as she loved? We also compare her life with that of Timothy of Esphigmenou, which outwardly appears different, but at its core is the same.

August 20

Holy Prophet Samuel: Behold, here am I. Speak, for thy servant hears. (mp3 format)

Prophet Samuel
2012-09-01
SYNOPSIS:The Holy Prophet Samuel teaches us how to approach EVERYTHING in life. The manner of the birth and calling of Samuel is also mentioned.

Great Martyr Phanurios of Rhodes. (mp3 format)

Great Martyr Phanurios Of Rhodes
2012-09-08
SYNOPSIS:Talk on Great Martyr Phanutios of Rhodes, including details about his icon, his known ability to help people find things, and his request that people pray for the soul of his sinful mother, and phanuropita. There is also a lesson to learn in how and when Holy Phanurios was revealled to the world - this has DIRECT application to our lives.

November 16

"Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance." The Parable of the unjust steward explains how to fulfil this commandment. (mp3 format)

Holy Apostle And Evangelist Matthew
Parable Of The Unjust Steward
Matthew 9:9-13, Luke 16:1-9
2012-11-29
SYNOPSIS:The Gospels read today, for the Evangelist Matthew & the Parable of the unjust steward, are perfectly compatible, and the parable gives us some insight into how we must fulfill the solemn commandment of our Lord, given after the calling of the Evangelist. In the exegesis of these passages, several anecdotes from Archimandrite Demetrius Carellas' talks, which were included the night before, are mentioned, because we must be a zealous in taming our will as the unjust steward was in taking care of himself, in order to fulfill the commandment: "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance."

January 22

What makes a martyr? It is always that they are being conformed to the image of the son of God! Romans 8:28-39 teaches us how to *be* martyrs DAILY. (mp3 format)

Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia
Romans 8:28-39
2013-02-10
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle reading for the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia, Romans 8:28-39, gives us the common thread that connects all martyrs. Millions in Russia were martyred, but many more millions gave up their faith with nary a struggle. The Martyrs suffered in countless ways, but were united in that that all were living in such a way to be "conformed to the image of the Son of God" Martyrdom is not a discrete event, it is a daily process, which ALL Christians must participate in gladly.

March 09

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Forty Martyrs Of Sebaste
Matthew 20-1-16
2013-03-20

Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. "For ye have need of patience." (mp3 format)

Hebrews 10:32-38 Matthew 20:1-16
2014-03-22
SYNOPSIS:The Forty Martys of Sebaste are a fantastic example of patience. This year, their feast was on the 3rd Saturday of Great Lent, which has an epistle the says in part "For ye have need of patience." Such simple words, and so true for each of us! Let us see how their martyrdom exemplifies patience. Depending on God with patience will always turn out well. We also explain why the Gospel of the workers of the vineyard is read for their feast.

October 28

St Timothy of Espigmenou, a New Martyr of the Turkish Yoke. COURAGE, love, obedience. God will never be frustrated in making His providence known to us. (mp3 format)

New Martyrs of the Turkish Yoke
St Timothy of Esphigmenou
2014-06-28
SYNOPSIS:St Timothy of Espigmenou is a New Martyr of the Turkish Yoke. (All these Saints are celebrated by many on the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost.) Here is a summary of his remarkable (even for the life of a saint!) story, which focuses on his COURAGE, love, and obedience, and how the providence of God is an irresistible, although obscure force which will always be manifested to us in the proper time.

August 29

Beheading of the Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Herod loved John. why did he behead him? Immorality hurts everything. (mp3 format)

Beheading of the Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John
2014-09-10
SYNOPSIS:Beheading of the Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Why did Herod behead St John, even though he loved him? His actions are a case study in how immoral life kills the soul in every way.

Beheading of the Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John - Why remember the saints? (mp3 format)

Beheading of the Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John
2014-09-11
SYNOPSIS:Beheading of the Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Why remember the Saints? They teach us to stop feeling entightled that everybody would be nice to us and things would go smoothly.

September 01

3 honorable estates in life. Purpose of marriage, & example of Saints Peter & Fevronia of Murom. Prayer in marriage. (mp3 format)

Peter And Fevronia Of Murom
2014-09-14
SYNOPSIS:On the feast of Saint Peter and Fevronia of Murom, we speak about the example of their life, and the purpose of life in general and the three God pleasing states of life. All have the same aim and purpose, and most choose marriage. We concentrate on the state of marriage, noting its core agreement with monasticism, and its purpose, and how those who enter into it should view it and therefore prosper. This great mystery of Christ and the church is the first sacrament mentioned in the Bible, even before the incarnation and baptism: " Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." The purpose of marriage and how it is lived flows directly out of the nature of Who God is. After discussing the theology of marriage, then we have practical advice, since theology without practice is useless. The most important practical advice for those who are married is to pray with and especially for each other. This may seem obvious, but it is not easy, and alas, not common enough. Let us come us with a plan, and with the help of God, follow it.

September 26

Apostle John the Theologian: Love is simple in practice. (mp3 format)

Apostle John The Theologian
1 John 4:12-19
2014-10-08
SYNOPSIS:On this feast day of the Holy Apostle John the Theologian, we discuss a little of the Gospel for his day, specifically the significance of the command of Jesus to take care of His mother. Stuff like this happens all the time to us. Love is simple in practice. We also discuss his confident claim that regarding his Gospel: "We know that his testimony is true". Very few people know something is true. How do we gain this knowledge? His first epistle explains. It is love. We do a leisurely exegesis of the Epistle reading for his day, with plenty of stories - from the Desert Fathers, the life of the apostle, and even a few from the reflections of Fr Moses Berry, from his talks in the 21st annual St Moses the Black Conference.

October 15

Hieromartyr Lucian Presbyter of Antioch +312, A Living Antimension (mp3 format)

2014-10-28
SYNOPSIS:On Oct 15, we celebrate the memory of the holy Hieromartyr Lucian, Presbyter of Antioch (+312). He was tortured for 9 years in Syria, no doubt in some of the same ways people are being tortured today in that besieged part of the world. He did something remarkable in prison. He became a living Antimension. We explain what an Antimension

June 29

"A lively hope" The unequivocal moral teaching of the Apostle Peter on the day of the feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul (Word DOC format)

Apostles Peter And Paul
A Lively Hope
1 Peter 1:3-9 1 Peter 1:13-19 1 Peter 2:11-24
2015
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:On the Feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul, This a partial exegesis of the 3 selections read at Vespers from the First Epistle of Peter. This is unequivocal moral teaching based on Jesus Christ, which is much needed, and neglected in our age, even in churches that call themselves Christian. Let us check our faith and see if it is a "lively hope", and if this description of a Christian applies to us: "being dead to sins, (we) should live unto righteousness". In between these two bookends to the 3 selections, Peter prepares his people for persecution and "heaviness of temptations". Nowadays, a priest must also be a prophet as were the Apostles, and encourage his people to pursue purity in their lives and to expect and be prepared for "heaviness through manifold temptations".

January 22

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Priest Nicholas Prozorov
According To His Purpose
Rom 8-28-39
2015

July 20

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Elijah
Elias Was A Man Subject To Like Passions As We Are
2015

November 30

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

Apostle Andrew
Come And See
John 1-35-51
2015

January 02

St Seraphim of Sarov, the most impressive things - personal strictness and struggle, purity, humility, obedience, pastoral endurance. (mp3 format)

Saint Seraphim of Sarov
2015-01-15
SYNOPSIS:Personal reflections about my patron, St Seraphim of Sarov, on his day. The most impressive thing about him was his pastoral endurance and his pastoral approach. His great virtues of struggle, humility and purity helped him to always be in the moment of the resurrection and to endure all things and all people and never get tired. Also a little autobiographical information, including how not to fast when you are a college student!

March 09

Martyrdom of the 40 Martyrs of Sebaste explained. Martyrdom, or the cross is not suffering, it is the way of life. (mp3 format)

2015-03-21
SYNOPSIS:The Martyrdom of the 40 martyrs is described in detail along with an explanation of what "sacrificing to the emperor" entailed. Many Christians did this, and went back to their business, unhindered. These martyrs teach us how to look at life and make choices. Also discussion of the sticheron : "Valiantly enduring the present torments,/ rejoicing in that for which they longed,/ the holy martyrs said one to another:/ If we do not shed our garments, we shall not put off the old man./ Winter is cruel, but paradise is sweet;/ the ice is painful, but the acquisition of the Kingdom is delightful./ Then, let us not give way, O warriors!/ Let us endure but a little while,/ that we may be crowned with crowns of victory by Christ God,// the Savior of our souls." Also an important point. The way of the cross, just like that of martyrdom should not be described as the way of suffering. Both are the way to life, even if they involve suffering.

"Let us lay aside every weight" The Forty Martyrs of Sebaste teach us to make a choice! (mp3 format)

Hebrews 12:1-10
2015-03-22
SYNOPSIS:The Forty Martyrs of Sebaste are highly celebrated during Great Lent. Truly they fulfilled the instruction of St Paul in the epistle from the Hebrews appointed for them: "Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us" To be a Christian is a choice. They gave their blood, that is their entire life to Christ BEFORE their martyric struggle began. We must give our blood, so that we are not guilty of the accusation: "Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin." What does this implicit command mean? It is not just about martyrs who are killed for Christ; it is a command we must understand and follow.

July 02

Personal reflections on the life of Saint John Maximovich. His prayer, liturgizing, boldness. (mp3 format)

Saint John Maximovich
Prayer Boldness Liturgy
2015-07-03
SYNOPSIS:When we read the life of a Saint, it should be a very personal experience. Here are the things about St John that have touched a particular sinner and priest, who began his ministry in Texas 21 years ago on the day of the glorification of St John, July 3, 1994. St John always prayed and never "prepared" for prayer. He prayed for everyone he ministered to, often late into the night as they slept. St John loved the Liturgy and served it everyday. He derived great power from this. St John was bold, in ways we who pray little and sleep much cannot understand. One example is the famous story about him trading vodka for an orphan who otherwise would have been sold into slavery, in the slums of Shanghai.

The Life of St John Maximovich compared to the "Shepherd" Gospels. (mp3 format)

Saint John Maximovich
John 10:1-16
2015-07-04
SYNOPSIS:The "Shepherd"Gospels are read for most hierarchs, and encompass John 10:1-16. We compare these Gospels to the life of St John, and to what should also be our life.

June 29

A tale of the making of a great Saint, in between two fishing expeditions: The Holy Apostle Peter. Saints come from sinners. (Word DOC format)

Apostles Peter And Paul
Saints Come From Sinners
Luke 5:1-11 Matthew 26:31-35 John 21:1-25
2016
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:A story of the Apostle Peter, a sinner who became a Saint. We focus on the period of his formation, between and including the 2 times the apostles went fishing as ordered by the Lord. His experiences show what is happening with us, if we will believe it, and try. Peter was a sinner who became a saint. He, like us, was a mix of good and bad, and he even denied the Lord three times, but his 3+ years with the Lord changed him, and the Lord forgave Him and he became one of the great Apostles. We read the lives of the Saints for instruction and encouragement. Be encouraged by the life of Peter; God will work with you, and you will get better, in you want to get better. Read the story in this order, and "fill in the blanks" for your life: Luke 5:1-11 Matthew 26:31-35 John 21:1-25

July 13

And this is Eternal Life... that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent and that they may be one, and they might have (Jesus) joy fulfilled in themselves. The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Christ. (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Fathers Of The First Six Councils. The Sunday between July 13/26 and July 19/August
John 17:1-13
2016
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the High Priestly prayer, with emphasis on Christology what it means to us - that is - how should we live, what should we value, what are we to become? About being made in the image of God. Differences between man and the angels. About the main theme of the Ecumenical Councils. About how to obtain the knowledge of God. What does it mean when the Lord Jesus Christ says He will not pray for the world? What does Jesus mean when he says "Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are."

August 01

Feasts of the Saints (HTML format)

Procession Of The Cross
1 Corinthians 1-18-24
2016

October 19

The Apostle of love teaches us why we must love. (mp3 format)

St John of Kronstadt
1 John 4:7-11
2016
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for St John of Kronstadt is from the first letter of John (1 John 4:7-11). The Apostle of love teaches us WHY we must love. This is not because of an external law, but is because of Who God is. He made us to be like Him.

August 01

The way of the cross, foolishness, the power of God, the secret to happiness, and the connection of the cross to the Dormition Fast. (mp3 format)

Procession of the Cross Aug 1/14
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2016-08-14
SYNOPSIS:"The preaching of the Cross is to those who perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved, it is the power of God." What is this foolishness, and what is this power? Also a connection between the beginning of the Dormition Fast and the Procession of the Cross. Also a "secret" to obtaining happiness.

June 24

Birth of John the Baptist. "Now it is high time to awake out of sleep" (mp3 format)

Nativity of Saint John the Baptist
Romans 13:11-14:4
2017-07-07
SYNOPSIS:On the birth of Saint Baptist, we celebrate, perhaps, the most dedicated and ascetical mortal human being to ever live. He did not waste time; we waste so much time. The Epistle says: "that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed". We must have purpose and resolve or we are nothing. Since this feast occurs within the 40 days for my son +Daniel, I see all things in relation to him, and a great blessing of his passing is that we have reports that many have awoken out of sleep. Let us talk about purpose, and asceticism and personal change. A son's death is an expensive price, but the gifts given are very dear.

August 20

"Here am I" - the answer to almost every question. The Holy Prophet Samuel. (mp3 format)

Prophet Samuel
Samuel(1 Kings)3:1-10
2017-09-03
SYNOPSIS:God called the holy Prophet Samuel simply by speaking his name: "Samuel". The young man answered 3 times "Here am I", and a 4th time:"Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth. " This is enough to know about the prophet’s life, it we apply it to our own. His answeres are the answers we should give to almost every question and encounter we have in life. We give a few examples from Samuel's life, and also practical examples, because it is useless to know about Samuel's virtues unless we also emulate them.

October 30

Martyrs Zenobios,Zenobia & Anastasia the Roman: The benefits of a Christian upbringing (mp3 format)

Martyrs Zenobios & Zenobia (Oct 30) & Anastasia the Roman (Oct 29)
2017-11-11
SYNOPSIS:The martyrs we talk about today had holy Christian upbringings. They were ready when tested because of the inheritance their parents and caregivers gave them. We parents must take note, and the children too. There is only one thing that is important.

August 28

Applying the life of St Moses the Ethiopian to our life. (mp3 format)

Saint Moses the Ethiopian
How To Read Lives Of Saints
2017-9-10
SYNOPSIS:The life of Saint Moses the Ethiopian, and some of his sayings, APPLIED to our life. We focus on his humility and perseverance, and his fasting. We need not fast as strictly as Moses to benefit - in fact, fasting can benefit us greatly if we do it well AND if we do it poorly. It all depends on our disposition and how much we try. We must be more serious about the salvation of our soul; this is one of the main messages of the life of this great man.

October 29

Life of St Timothy of Esphigmenou, and outrageous, dangerous love. (mp3 format)

New Martyr Monk Timothy of Esphigmenou
2018-06-17
SYNOPSIS:Life of St Timothy of Esphigmenou. 10/29 Love is willing to be dangerous, outrageous. Love thinks outside the box.

October 08

The lives of the Former Harlots Pelagia and Thais teach, inspire us, and REBUKE us. (mp3 format)

2018-10-21
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday that we commemorated the Fathers of the Seventh Ecumenical Council which restored the veneration of icons, we also remembered the former harlots Pelagia and Thais. When we look upon an icon we see holiness, and struggle and integrity and repentance. We see this also in these former harlots who became great strugglers. Their lives should inspire, encourage and rebuke us. What image do we see when we look in the mirror?

November 27

Great Martyr James the Persian, and second chances. Nov 27. (Adobe PDF format)

2018-12-10
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:James the Persian (Nov 27) was a great martyr, but not all of his life was that of a great martyr. At first, he was a coward, but then he came to his senses. It is good to learn from people who made terrible errors, and even apostasy, but came to their senses. God never abandons any of us.

COMMENT:Also in VIDEO - https://youtu.be/qhJ87Ljv6HU

November 28

Nov 28. Life is not fair, but God always makes good out of bad. (Word DOC format)

Martyr Stephen the New, New Martyr Christos, Emperor Maurice
2018-12-11
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Nov 28. The Lives of the Venerable Martyr Stephen the New, New Martyr Christos,and the Holy And Devout Emperor Maurice, with an emphasis of how they endured the unexpected, the terrible, the "unfair", and God turned bad into good. We also mention the heroic sacrifice of the wet-nurse of the youngest son of Emperor Maurice.

COMMENT:Also in VIDEO (with monster man making an appearance) - https://youtu.be/yc-ZZE35sDU

March 09

The holy 40 martyrs of Sebaste, and the 11th hour, and the agenda of love. (mp3 format)

40 Martyrs Of Sebaste
Matthew 20:1-16
2019-03-22
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read the Gospel about the vineyard and the workers who came at the 11th hour for the 40 martyrs of Sebaste? Those workers can mean two things for us. One is a very comforting thought, and one is a frightening and realistic thought. Also, comments about the agenda of love, and the workers of the 11th hour.

June 24

Teaching of St. John the Baptist on how to "Prepare the way of the Lord and make His paths straight" (mp3 format)

Nativity of St. John the Baptist
How To Make His Paths Straight
Luke 3:3-18
2019-07-07
SYNOPSIS:On the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, we discuss his teachings and how they are easy and practical to apply to our daily life in order to fulfill the commandment that is incumbent upon every Christian:" Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight".

June 29

Spiritual meaning of the Gospels read on the feast of St. Peter and Paul. (Adobe PDF format)

Holy Apostles Peter and Paul
John 21:15-25 : Matthew 16:13-19
2019-07-12
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Spiritual meaning of the Gospels read on the feast of St. Peter and Paul. John 21:15-25, love, and restoration

July 27

Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon: In a good heart, grace will always accomplish its desire. (mp3 format)

Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon July 27
2019-08-09
SYNOPSIS:The life of St. Panteleimon shows that in a good heart, grace will never be denied. His mother was Christian and his father pagan, and he told him about the faith but then she died and his father deeply educated him in pagan ways. But grace cannot be denied. He had a good heart, and grace will always find a way in a good heart. There are many examples in the life of the great martyr Panteleimon in which things were not done quite "correctly" but grace will never be denied.

August 26

The Martyrs Adrian and Natalia. Not a perfect life! Pray for Everyone! (Adobe PDF format)

2019-09-07
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The martyrdom of Adrian and Natalia demonstrates that the matter what we do in life, when God calls us, if our heart is open to him, we will be saved. They didn’t do everything right. Natalia was a secret Christian, and Adrian was a pagan. But God did not abandon them, and Natalia became a confessor and martyr and assisted her husband Adrian in a feat of incredible martyrdom.

September 23

Conception of the Baptist vs the Annunciation: One angel, two messages, two different responses, 1 with faith, 1 asking for a sign. (mp3 format)

Luke 1:5-25
2019-10-05
SYNOPSIS:The difference between the responses of Zacharias when he was told that he and his wife would bear John the Baptist and, Mary the Theotokos, when she was told that she would bear Jesus Christ as a virgin. In the midst of explaining this, we see it is clear that we should never look for a sign, and we also talk about deception and how we should react when we see an angel, and that Satan can never perfectly mimic holiness. There is one personal anecdote at the end when someone who loved my son +Daniel looked for a sign and I’m very glad she did. So, signs may be good, but we should not look for them.

April 23

A story of the *physical* intervention of Great Martyr George in our days. (mp3 format)

2020-05-06
SYNOPSIS:On the feast day of St. George, two stories that show that the saints intercede for us not only in a spiritual way it actually physically by appearing in carrying out different works. A story about the intervention of St. George to allow services in his church in Russia during the Khrushchev era. We also talk about the intervention of St. Nicholas who saved a man from execution by literally appearing to the leader of the execution brigade during the communist era in Russia. The Story about St George was read from https://orthodoxgladness.blogspot.com/2020/05/orthodox-parables-and-stories-today-you.html, and the St Nicholas incident is at: https://www.orthodox.net//saints/miracle-of-saint-nicholas-kiev-1920s.html

June 29

The Apostles Peter and Paul. A LIVELY HOPE. (mp3 format)

1 Peter 1:3-9, 1 Peter 2:11-24
2020-07-12
SYNOPSIS:On the feast day of St. Peter and Paul, a short exposition of two of the readings from Vespers from the epistles of St. Peter. He talks about a lively hope, and he also talks about bearing persecution and bearing wrongs. We are in a day when life is changing rapidly and there is much uncertainty. How are we to have a "lively hope"? The apostle teaches us.

August 01

The Holy maccabean-martyrs teach us in what our identity should rest. (mp3 format)

2 Maccabees 6,7 Matthew 17:14-23
2020-08-16
SYNOPSIS:In the Gospel today, the disciples could not cast out a demon and asked why. The Lord told them that it was because of their unbelief. Unbelief is nothing, it will die and not endure. Let us learn how to believe, by looking at the luminous example of the Holy maccabean-martyrs, celebrated on the first day of the Dormition fast. Their martyrdom was possible because THEY KNEW WHO THEY WERE. In our age, there is a crisis of identity. Let us explore how to find out who we are (or should be) by examine the witness of the Holy maccabean-martyrs.

October 08

Fathers of the 7th Council. The Gospel vs Various and Strange Doctrines (mp3 format)

Hebrews 13:7–16
2020-10-25
SYNOPSIS:What made the saints who they are? It was the true Christian faith that they kept, and held on to, and had the power to transform their lives. Not so the “various and strange doctrines” that St. Paul warns us about — the corrupting “gospel” of the world, so prevalent in modern culture. Know your faith so you can be on guard against the lies of this world. Also in video at:https://youtu.be/WOesx8mX0vs

November 27

Great Martyr James the Persian. A saint for our difficult days. (mp3 format)

2020-12-10
SYNOPSIS:The Great-Martyr James is the best kind of martyr for our day because we will soon be sorely tested. He apostatized because of vanity and would have lived an empty and luxurious life, and then descended into the bowels of Hell, except that he had someone behind him. His wife gave him "tough love," and her rebuke and prayers jarred him to his senses, and he endured one of the most fantastic martyrdoms recorded. We also mention Martyr George of Chios, who also apostatized for flimsy reasons and eventually, with the entire local church praying for him, accomplished a glorious martyrdom. We all need to be strong, and there must be interior work, but it could be that any of us might have a time of weakness; therefore, we need people of courage, faith, and prayer behind us to pick us up when we fall.

January 22

Russian New Martyrs & Confessors. Not a hair of your head. (RTF format)

Russian New Martyrs Confessors
Not An Hair Of Your Head
Romans 8:28-39 Luke 21:12-19
2021-02-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The end of the Gospel read to commemorate the New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia says, "There shall not a hair of your head perish." Do we understand what this means? It certainly does not mean that there were not many martyrs who were killed and tortured and maltreated. If we read the Epistle for today and combine it with some of the verses of the Canon read for these Martyrs and Confessors we will understand not only that " all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose", but also how to live in such a way that this promise becomes real in our lives.

June 19

The apostle Jude. How to dispute with evil and how to live after blessings. (mp3 format)

Jude
2021-07-02
SYNOPSIS:The feast day of the Apostle Jude (6/19). We explain why he called himself the brother of James, and do a partial exegesis of his letter which is very timely for our day. We must learn to strike a balance of humility and also standing up against evil. Jude’s epistle is one of the best examples of how to strike that balance. Even after quoting an apocryphal text about the Satan disputing with St. Michael the Archangel regarding the relics of Moses, Jude teaches by his fiery words (He goes so far as to call them clouds without water) that we should have no patience with heretical and worldly pronunciations of religious leaders. He also teaches that when we have received a blessing of God we are responsible for our actions afterwards and we can be judged if we do not live worthily of them. We go into a lot of detail about this verse: quot;I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not." (Jude 1:5)

June 29

The Apostles and Peter and Paul. A lively hope. (mp3 format)

A Lively Hope
1 Peter 1:3-9 : 1 Peter 2:11-24 : 21:15-25
2021-07-12
SYNOPSIS:The Apostle Peter wrote about a "lively hope" and then, with the Apostle Paul, showed abundantly by his life story what this hope is and how to attain it. We discuss the restoration of Peter after the catching fish and how this restoration also applies to us and also Paul’s autobiography of his struggles which shows how we must react to the Lord’s consolation. We also discuss Peter’s admonition that we must bear wrongs that we do not deserve and if we do, we will learn about the lively hope that the apostles Peter and Paul embody.

July 27

Saint Panteleimon and the Golden Thread (mp3 format)

2021-08-09
SYNOPSIS:On the great Feast of the Holy Unmercenary Healer Panteleimon, we investigate WHY he became a great Saint. He had a good heart, but he was very much a pagan, and likely would have remained so, except that a priest in hiding (from pagans!) saw something in him. There is a "Golden Thread", invisible to us most of the time, that connects us to others. God gives His grace to us through a *few* others who take an interest in us. We look at the influence of the Holy Priest Hermolaus, the mentor of Panteleimon. We *must* also be a "Hermolaus" to others whom we meet.

August 01

The Maccabean Martyrs. What is life? (mp3 format)

2021-08-16
SYNOPSIS:The martyrdom of the Maccabean martyrs illustrates the perfect answer to the question: "what is life?". In our day, people are very confused about what is life and what is death, so let us look to the holy Priest Eliezer to answer this primary question. This question has always applied in every age but in our age even within the church, life is being confused with death and death is being called life. If we follow Eliezer’s example we will experience life and therefore always choose it instead of death.

August 29

Beheading of the Baptist. A lesson about the way of life and death. (mp3 format)

2021-09-11
SYNOPSIS:On the day we celebrate the beheading of St. John the Baptist with a mixture of joy and sorrow and all we consider a day that is a day of death and life and way of life that is of life and way of life that is of death. Because of the times we are in when people are calling death life and life death, we make comments about the pandemic and mandates and how we are to live in such times if we want to follow the way of life.

June 29

Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)

A Lively Hope
2021-apostles-peter-paul

Weeks before Great Lent

Week before Sunday of the Prodigal Son;Monday (mp3 format)

No Prophecy Of The Scripture Is Of Any Private Interpretation
2 Peter 1:20-2:9
2008-02-18

Purpose of Life (and Great Lent) to see things as they really are. (mp3 format)

1 John 2:18-3:10
2020-02-17
SYNOPSIS:We are preparing for Great Lent, and to what end? It is to realize exactly what the Apostle of Love speaks about in the epistle today: "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. " This is tantamount to knowing the truth about everything, and being true, in everything.

Week before Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare);Thursday (mp3 format)

If A Man Say I Love God And Hateth His Brother He Is A Liar
If You Cannot Stop Sinning At Least Be Kind
1 John 4-20-5-21
2011-02-25

Week before Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare);Thursday (mp3 format)

If We Confess Our Sins He Is Faithful And Just To Forgive Us Our Sins And To Cleanse Us From All Unrighteousness
1 John 1-8-2-6
2012-02-09

Week before Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare);Saturday (mp3 format)

Saturday Of The Dead
1 Thessalonians 4-13-17-John 5-24-30
2011-02-26

Week before Sunday of Forgiveness Sunday Cheesfare);Thursday (mp3 format)

_2012-02-16+-if-a-man-say-i-love-god-and-hateth-his-brother-he-is-a-liar+learn-to-love-god-by-loving-neighbor_1john4-20-5-21 If A Man Say I Love God And Hateth His Brother He Is A Liar
Learn To Love God By Loving Neighbor
1 John 4-20-5-21
2012-02-16

Praying for the dead shows that we look to the heavenly world and not earthly things. (mp3 format)

Commemoration of the Departed Maetfare Saturday
2019
SYNOPSIS:Some reflections on one of the hymns for Meatfare Saturday, and the selection from 1 Thessalonians which talks about us being with the Lord after the second coming, and prayer for the dead.

The hymn which I refer to, which I could not remember the exact words to is this: "Why does man deceive himself and boast? / Why does he trouble himself in vain? / For he is earth, and soon to the earth he will return. / Why does the dust not reflect that it is formed from clay, / and cast out as rottenness and corruption? / Yet though we men are clay, why do we cling so closely to the earth? / For if we are Christ’s kindred, / should we not run to Him, / leaving all this mortal and fleeting life, / and seeking the life incorruptible, / which is Christ Himself, // the illumination of our souls?" (From the Praises, Tone 8, Meatfare Saturday)

Great Lent Week Before Great Lent 06 Thursday;Thursday (mp3 format)

Do Not Make Friends Because Of Evil
Father Forgive Them For They Know Not What They Do
Luke 23-2-34,44-56
2012-02-23

Sundays before Great Lent

Sunday of Zacchaeus

1st Sunday before Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
1 Tim:4-9-15, Luke 19:1-10
1999

1st Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
2001

1st Sunday before Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Zacchaeus Sunday
2002

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zaccheaus
2007-01-21

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zaccheaus
Encouragement
2008-02-10

1st Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
2009-02-01
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Luke 19-1-10
2010-01-17

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
He Sought To See Jesus Who He Was
Luke 19-1-10
2011--02-06

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Process Of Repentance
2012-01-29

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Zacchaeus Make Haste And Come Down For To Day I Must Abide At Thy House
2012-02-17

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Make Haste
Luke 19-1-10
2014-02-02

1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Repentance 101
Little Run Climb Make Haste
Luke 19-1-10
2015-01-25

"Zacchaeus moments". We have them too. Great Lent is the best time of the year to learn to listen for them. (mp3 format)

Zacchaeus Sunday
Luke 19:1-10
2016-02-14
SYNOPSIS:There is a grave marker in a Utah cemetery showing a boy standing from his wheelchair and reaching towards the heavens. His paralysis is over now. This image is an apt metaphor for the purpose of Great Lent. Since Zacchaeus Sunday is the unofficial beginning of the preparation period for Great Lent, we discuss the purpose of Great Lent in the context of his "Zacchaeus moment". The church will talk about many such moments in the coming weeks and all of Great Lent - with Gospels on the Publican and the Pharisee, the Prodigal son, and much about St Mary of Egypt in the 5th week. All of these had "Zacchaeus moments". We do too, and we must learn to listen for them and "make haste" when we hear them. (The statue is worth seeing, and reading about the memorable child Matthew Stafford is also worthwhile, at http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=7140314

Overview of the common theme in the Gospels for the 5 Sundays preceding Great Lent. (mp3 format)

2017
SYNOPSIS:Simply put, for the Christian who has faith and EFFORT, even his small amount of good will always beat bad.

Zacchaeus Sunday: A little good always wins over bad. (mp3 format)

Luke 19:1-10
2017
SYNOPSIS:Learning from the bad and the good in the Gospels. What is the purpose of Great Lent, and how do we go about achieving it? The story of Zacchaeus (this is OUR story!), along with all the other Gospels on the Sundays before Great Lent teaches that we can only give a little bit of good to God, but if we give what we have (with faith and of course, effort), He will magnify our small effort, and it will always be greater than the bad we do. We must give *something*. We also take note of the sin of the Pharisees and how it makes a person unable to be saved, not matter whatever good or bad they do.

Sunday of Zacchaeus and the New Martyrs of Russia. Repentance and Witness. (mp3 format)

Luke 19:1-10
2019-02-10
SYNOPSIS:A sermon by Priest Nicholas Park, fusing the "Witness" ("Martyr" means witness) of Zacchaeus the publican and the New Martyrs of Russia.

Zacchaeus Sunday. How to live to maintain the moment. (RTF format)

Zacchaeus Sunday
How To Maintain The Moment
Luke 19:1-10
2021-02-14
Also in Format: mp3

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
1999

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Publican And Pharisee
2007-01-28

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Publican And Pharisee
2009-02-08

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Theme Of Great Lent
2010-01-24
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
2011-02-13
SYNOPSIS:2nd Sunday before Great Lent

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Do Not Judge
Luke 18-10-14
2011-02-13

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

By The Waters Of Babylon
Dashing The Infants Against The Rock
Psalm-136
2011-02-20

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
He Came To Himself
Luke 15-11-32
2011-02-20

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Pride Humility Boasting Self Condemnation Tears
Our Example Expect Persecution Power Of Scripture
2 Timothy 3-10-15
2012-02-05

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Process Of Repentance
God Be Merciful Merciful To Me A Sinner The Jesus Prayer
Luke 18-10-14
2012-02-05

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Open Unto Me O Giver Of Life The Gates Of Repentance
Triodion-Hymns-After-The-Gospel
2013-02-23

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
This Man Went Down To His House Justified Rather Than The Other
Luke 15-11-32
2013-02-24

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Spiritual And Psychological Pain
2014-02-08

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
This Man Went Down To His House Justified
Luke 18-10-14
2014-02-09

2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Orthodox Way To Pray For The Deep Heart
Luke 15-11-32
2015-02-01

Humility comes about through a relationship: the Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee. (mp3 format)

Parable of the Publican and Pharisee
Luke 18:10-14
2016
SYNOPSIS:The external teaching of the Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee is a warning against pride and an example of humility. There much more. We discuss what humility is. It is not trying to not be proud! it is a relationship. the prayer of the publican illustrates this relationship. in the midst of our discussion, we define some important words which are not well understood - "hope" and "justified", and "humility".

The way of Life is simple. Sin is complex. Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee. (mp3 format)

Luke 18:10-14
20176
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the Publican and the Pharisee. Life is simple. If you know a few simple things, and do them, you will be saved. A description of the complex ways of sin, modeled by the verbosity and judgment of the Pharisee, and the simplicity of righteousness, as shown by the publican.

Parable of the Publican and Pharisee - the power of "Lord have mercy". (mp3 format)

Parable of the Publican and Pharisee
Luke 18:10-14
2018
SYNOPSIS:A little story, from my life, to illustrate the power of the simple prayer, "Lord have mercy". We leave behind the Pharisee, who did not think he needed mercy, and therefore prayed not to God, but to himself only, and wend our way through my seeking college days, Protestant Theology and the group "Campus Crusade for Christ", and end up in the church, which understands mercy, and experiences mercy, and therefore, says the prayer "Lord have mercy", and variations thereof, more than any other prayer.

Sunday of the Publican & Pharisee. Pride - the worst master. (mp3 format)

Luke 15:11-32
2019-02-17
SYNOPSIS:Sermon about "Pride - the worst master" by Priest Nicholas Park on the Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee.

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee - It is going to be ok, and you must do two things. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
Luke 18:10-14
2020-02-09
SYNOPSIS:The most beautiful message of the parable of the Publican and Pharisee is that the publican went back to his house justified. We examine what this word means. The world doesn’t understand this word. The Christian does, because he knows two things. He knows repentance and compunction, which he couples with action, and he also feels the hand of God telling them it’s going to be okay. We discuss these two things that the publican did, and also compare this parable with the former publican Zacchaeus, who made wonderful promises on the day His Lord received his repentance, but then tomorrow came. Since it is also the Sunday of the commemoration of the New Martyrs of Russia, we discuss very briefly events in the lives of three of these martyrs, and how they illustrate something that we must do along with asking the Lord for mercy if we are to really know that everything is going to be all right.

The Publican and the Pharisee. How *not* to prayer within ourselves. (mp3 format)

2021-02-21

Sunday of the Prodigal Son

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Notes
Luke 15-11-32

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
1997
Also in Format: Word DOC

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Prodigal Son
2007-02-04

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
2009-02-16

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
2010-01-31

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Prodigal Son
The Process Of Repentance
Luke 12-11-32
2012-02-12

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Prodigal Son
The Elder Son
Luke 12-11-32
2013-03-02

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Prodigal Son
And When He Had Spent All He Came To Himself I Will Arise And Go
Luke 12-11-32
2013-03-03

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

The Prodigal Son
How Shall We Sing The Lords Song In A Strange Land
Luke 12-11-32-Psalm-136-By-The-Waters-Of-Babylon
2014-02-16
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Parable Of The Prodigal Son
And By The Waters Of Babylon Compared
Luke 12-11-32-Psalm-136
2015-02-09

Parable of the Prodigal son. Outside the heart is the far country. (mp3 format)

Luke 15:11-32
2016
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the Prodigal Son vividly shows us the immediately apparent teaching that there is nothing that God will not forgive, and we can never be too weak to begin repentance, which God will always react to and make us stronger. It also teaches, less obviously, but more importantly, the consequences of living outside the heart and how to live in the heart. As such, it is part of the preparatory sequence of Gospels for Great Lent, because all of Great Lent is a quest to live more in the heart.

Parable of the Prodigal son - how to come to ourself and present ourselves before God. (mp3 format)

Luke 15:11-32
2018-02-04
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday of the Prodigal Son presents us an instruction manual for how to live during Great Lent, which is fast approaching, and how to pray and present ourselves before God. We focus on the parables teaching about delusion and how to think of ourselves and pray to God.

We must be as the Prodigal son - MANY TIMES - and learn to "Come to ourselves" (mp3 format)

Luke 15:11-32
2019-02-24
SYNOPSIS:The spiritual life of the Prodigal Son began when he "came to himself", and recognized his need for repentance. The same applied to Zacchaeus, to the Publican, and to all of us. In fact, the Christian life begins and continues in that spirit for all eternity. Sin is a kind of delusion, and coming to yourself means seeing the truth about yourself; seeing through the masks we put on to hide that truth. Today, Priest Seraphim Holland of St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in McKinney Texas explains the parable of the Prodigal Son. Visit us at orthodox.net

Parable of the Prodigal Son, and capturing the "moment" in Great Lent. (mp3 format)

Luke 15:11-32
2020-02-16

We must *continually* pursue the moment when the Prodigal Son came to himself. (mp3 format)

Pursue Moments When You Come To Yourself
Luke 15:11-32
2021-02-28
SYNOPSIS:We talk about the purpose of Lent, and the Gospels read in the Sundays before Lent. Then we talk about the many teachings of the Parable of the Prodigal Son, but all of them are energized by the most golden truth in this parable: that the prodigal son, after a life of sin, came to himself. We talk about how to continually pursue this moment.

Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare)

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
2007-02-11

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment
The Judgment Is All About Love
Matthew 25:31-46
2008-03-02

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
2009-02-22

4th Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
2010-02-07
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
The Services Teach Us How To Pray
2011-02-27

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Things That Are Repeated Are Important
Matthew 25-31-46
2011-02-27

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Meat Commendeth Us Not To God
1 Corinthians 8-8-9-2
2012-02-08

4th Sunday before Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment
Matthew 25-31-46
2012-02-19
Also in Format: mp3

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment
Inherit The Kingdom Prepared For You From The Foundation Of The World
Matthew 25-31-46
2013-03-10

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgement
Do Not Judge Repent Be Kind Forgive
Matthew 25-31-46
2014-02-23
SYNOPSIS:4th Sunday before Great Lent

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment
Do Not Judge Repent Be Kind Forgive
Matthew 25-31-46
2014-02-23

4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of The Last Judgment
Matthew 25-31-46-1corinthians 8-8-9-2
2015-02-15

Inner meaning of the Last Judgment Gospel. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Last Judgment
Matthew 25:31-46
2016
SYNOPSIS:First, and overview of all 5 Sunday Gospels in the preparation period for Great Lent, to see how they fit together. Then a discussion of the outer vs. inner teaching of this Gospel form Matthew about the Last judgment. Of course the immediately apparent teaching of this Gospel is that there will be a judgment and we will be judged if we are not compassionate. The inner meaning can be gleaned from understanding why the Lord referred to the "young kids" as being put on the left (the actual word means immature goats - "young kids", and His answer to the righteous when they question Him: "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." Putting these things together we see with excitement the possibilities before us in this upcoming fast: we are to grow towards maturity, so that, as the image of God within us becomes more apparent, we see Christ in everyone else. Christianity is not rules, or exercises. It is growth toward perfection. We are not to be "young kids", who are immature, foolish and selfish, but mature sheep and even mature goats!

The sole criterion for Judgment. (mp3 format)

Last Judgment
How Are We Judged
Matthew 25:31-46
2018-02-11
SYNOPSIS:The message of the Gospel for the Sunday of the Last Judgment is: (the verb, the command, the only consequence which gives meaning to our life, and the criterion by which we are judged) - LOVE! . An exegesis of this Gospel, taking into account the other recent Sunday readings, and the two parables which precede it in the 25th chapter of Matthew - the Ten virgins, and the Talents. Considering all these things, we see an instruction book for how to approach great Lent.

The Last Judgment and the border between incorruption and mortality. (mp3 format)

Last Judgement
Border Between Incorruption And Mortality
2019-03-03
SYNOPSIS:The story of the Last Judgment from Matthew 25 makes it very clear that if we do not love we will not be saved. We will be helped to love if we know who we are and where we came from and where we are going. We look at two hymns from the Saturday commemoration of reposed which tell us these things, in particular, one which tells us that we are "on the border / between incorruption and mortality"Here are the hymns:

Thou hast formed Adam with Thine hand, O Savior, / and set him on the border / between incorruption and mortality; / Thou hast made him share in life through grace, / freeing him from corruption / and translating him to the life that he enjoyed at first. / Give rest, O Master, to Thy servants Thou hast taken from us; / may they dwell with the righteous in the choir of the elect; / write their names in the book of life; / raise them with the sound of the Archangel’s trump, // and count them worthy of Thy heavenly kingdom.

Christ is risen, / releasing from bondage Adam the first-formed man / and destroying the power of hell. / Be of good courage, all ye dead, / for death is slain and hell despoiled; / the crucified and risen Christ is King. / He has given incorruption to our flesh; / He raises us and grants us resurrection, / and He counts worthy of His joy and glory / all who, with a faith that wavers not, // have trusted fervently in Him.

Sunday of the Last Judgment- We must find many ways to formally and informally love. (mp3 format)

Matthew 25:31-46
2020-02-23
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday of the Last Judgment, we read about the last judgment from the Gospel of St. Matthew. This gospel clearly teaches that the sole criterion by which we are judged is whether or not we love. This is the task of the Christian who wants to become a true human being, to learn to love as God loves. We explore formal and informal ways to learn to love and how Great Lent should assist us greatly on opening a small crack in our heart, so that God would come in and teach us how to love, and we would be changed.

The Last Judgment. Lent is to learn awareness, and stop indifference. (RTF format)

1 Corinthians 8:8-9:2 Matthew 25:31-46
2021-03-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:On the second is the last Sunday before we begin Great Lent, we read about the Last Judgment and about eating meat sacrificed to idols. There is much to say about the account of the Last Judgment in Matthew’s gospel, but we will say something about it that also applies to the epistle reading. The great sin of those who were judged was that they were indifferent to others around them, because of their passions and distractions. St. Paul teaches us that we should not do something that offends a brother, which means we must be aware of our brother and his needs. We learn awareness and love for others especially during Great Lent if we struggle in the correct way. The indifferent cannot be saved. Great Lent is going to teach us how to put off indifference.

Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheesefare)

5th Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness
1999
Also in Format: Word DOC

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
2007-02-18

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness
2009-03-01

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
2010-02-14

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
Triodion Teaches How To Think
2011-03-05

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
Instructions For Great Lent
Romans 13-11-14-Matthew 6-14-21
2011-03-06

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness
Now It Is High Time To Awake Out Of Sleep
Romans 13-11-14-4
2012-02-25

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness
How To Learn To Forgive
Matthew 6-14-21
2012-02-26

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness
Fasting And Forgiving
Matthew 6-14-21
2013-03-17

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness And The Casting Out Of Adam From Paradise
Triodion Textbook Of Repentance
2014-03-01

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday
Now Is Our Salvation Nearer Than When We Believed
Romans 13-11-14-4
2014-03-02

5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)

Sunday Of Forgiveness
Why Great Lent Why Fast Why Forgive
Romans 13-11-14-4-Matthew 6-14-21
2015-02-22

Now is the time to awaken out of sleep ... and pursue paradise (mp3 format)

Romans 13:11-14:4
2016
SYNOPSIS:Today most people know by "Cheesefare" or "Forgiveness Sunday" , or the day we eat blini, but the liturgical theme of the day is the casting out of Adam and Eve from paradise. Most people at least acknowledge that we must forgive to be saved, but the hymns of today teach another truth - you will forgive if you are *being saved*. Today we lament about the greatest catastrophe in creation -- the fall of mankind in paradise -- and we enter into a period when we lament the loss of paradise and seek after it. Let us look at some of the hymns from the Triodion from this day, and the exciting call of the Apostle Paul to action: "Now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed" and "put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh". All these things teach us what our goal should be in great Lent and that we can reach it - to regain some of paradise.

Now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. Exegesis of Romans 13:11-14 in regard to Great Lent. (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday
Romans 13:11-14
2017-02-25
SYNOPSIS:Great Lent almost upon us. Exegesis of Romans 13:11-14, with emphasis of its application to the struggle and JOY of Great Lent. Some people say: "Oh no Great Lent is coming!" This is not the opinion of the Apostle Paul, or the church. In Great Lent we should feel *more* alive. It is a time of God entering into our hearts a little more than other times of the year, because of our greater focus and struggle. Expect God to visit you during Great Lent, and to change in some way. We learn to regard ourselves correctly, to not think of ourselves too highly.

An Instruction Book for Great Lent with 3 topics: forgiveness, fasting & treasure. Matthew 6:14-21 (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday
Matthew 6:14-21
2017-02-26
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read this Gospel on the threshold of Great Lent. Why do we have Great Lent? What should be our goal? This Gospel is a type on "Instruction Manual" for Great Lent. There are 3 lessons. They incorporate fasting, forgiveness and treasure. Why do we fast. Why MUST we forgive? The answers may not be so obvious to some.

Expulsion of Adam from Paradise, and By the Waters of Babylon (mp3 format)

Exile of Adam from Paradise
By the Waters of Babylon
Psalm 136
2018-02-18
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of the expulsion of Adam and Eve from paradise, and, how understanding and applying Psalm 136: "By the Waters of Babylon" will make us regain paradise.

Great Lent is our opportunity to return from our self-imposed exile. (mp3 format)

Romans 13:11-14:4
2020-03-02
SYNOPSIS:The entire theme of Great Lent that we are attempting to return from our self-imposed exile is why the parable of the Prodigal Son is mentioned in our services throughout Great Lent. The last Sunday before Great Lent is called by many names, but the best is the "Expulsion of Adam from Paradise". The fall of humanity began our exile. This was not imposed by God, but a natural result of passion and sin. During Great Lent we are trying to come back home, speak about this process the things we can do context up parable of the prodigal son. In the end of the homily, we also discuss something that we as parish can do, and any other parish can do, to help return from exile: Agree to pray with a prostration daily for each other, making a prostration for everyone with their name on an opt-in list. The beginning of our return from exile is that we acquire a sound mind, which is only possible if we pray and we love.

Forgiveness Sunday. Goals for Lent. Practical ways to forgive. (mp3 format)

Forgiveness Sunday
Romans 13:11-14:4 Matthew 6:14-21
2021-03-14
SYNOPSIS:Talking about the goals of Great Lent, and that you should not want it to be easy; you should want it to be amazing. We add in the necessity to forgive, and VERY PRACTICAL steps to be SURE that you forgive, or if forgiving is difficult, that you are *trying* to forgive.

Great Lent

First Sunday of Great Lent

1st Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Before Zacchaeus
2002
Also in Format: Word DOC

1st Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Triumph Orthodoxy Come And See
2002
Also in Format: Word DOC

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Triumph Of Orthodoxy
2004

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Triumph Orthodoxy
2004

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Triumph Of Orthodoxy
2007-02-25

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Triumph Of Orthodoxy
How do *we* partake in the triumph of Orthodoxy?
Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-12:2 John 1:43-51
2009-03-08

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Triumph Of Orthodocxy
Pleasures Of Sin For A Season
Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-12:2, John 1:43-51
2010-02-21
SYNOPSIS:What is the triumph of Orthodoxy? A short synopsis of the historical background, then discussion of what this triumph is for the individual. It involves "faith", understanding that the pleasures of sin are for a season, and believing that a good thing CAN come out of Nazareth.

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Uncircumscribed Word Of The Father Became Circumscribed
The Meaning Of Icons
2011-03-12
SYNOPSIS:The true meaning of icons is proclaimed in the Sunday of Orthodoxy Services. The "surface meaning" of an icon is that we can depict Jesus Christ as a man precisely because He became a man. We are not satisfied with such a shallow explanation, and the services delve much deeper into the meaning of the incarnation. Two examples, one from Vespers, and the other from matins, describe the wonder of the incarnation. Every time we gaze upon an icon, we must remember that we, who have nothing in common with God, can know God because He chose to have everything in common (one hymn, below, describes this as the God-man taking on all the "distinctive properties" of our flesh), with us, save sin.
Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, "Lord I have cried", Tone VI, spec. mel.: 'Having set all your hope')
The uncircumscribed Word of the Father became circumscribed, taking flesh from thee, O Theotokos, and He restored the sullied image to its ancient glory, filling it with the divine beauty. This our salvation we confess in deed and word, and we depict it in the holy icons. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Kontakion, Tone 8)

The simplest and most important instructions to live according to the Triumph of Orthodoxy. (mp3 format)

John 1:43-51
2011-03-13
SYNOPSIS:The "Triumph of Orthodoxy" is not only a historical event that we commemorate today, but also applies to every individual Christian. We spoke about the meaning of icons and the incarnation last night - the triumph of Orthodoxy for the individual is that, as one of the hymns teaches, because of the incarnation "the sullied image (of God, in us) has been restored to its ancient glory and filled with the divine beauty." (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/great-lent-sunday-01_2011-03-12+the-uncircumscribed-word-of-the-father-became-circumscribed+the-meaning-of-icons.mp3). The readings today teach us how to realize in our lives this promise, and the Gospel is short and succinct - the Lord commands us to "Follow me" and "Come and see" What does this mean practically for us.?

The Hymns of the Sunday of Orthodoxy proclaim the restoration of the ikons and their most important teaching - the Incarnation with all its implications, and the reason why we fast. (mp3 format)

Vespers And Matins Hymns For The Sunday Of Orthodoxy
2012-03-04
SYNOPSIS:The hymns for the Sunday of Orthodoxy, which proclaim the restoration of the icons, are a primer in Christology. Their most important teaching is explained, using examples from the services. Also the purpose of fasting, from a matins hymn, is clearly explained, and the importance of the hymnology of the church and how it teaches us true theology is discussed. Allthe following hymns are mentioned:

Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Vespers, Lord I have cried)

We venerate Thy holy icon, loving Lord, / asking Thee to pardon our transgressions, Christ our God. / For Thou of Thine own will wast pleased in the flesh to ascend upon the Cross, / so to deliver from the bondage of the enemy those whom Thou hast fashioned. / Therefore in thanksgiving we cry aloud to Thee: // Thou hast filled all things with joy, our Savior, when Thou hast come to save the world. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Troparion, Tone II)

Depicting Thy divine form in ikons, O Christ, we openly proclaim Thy Nativity, Thine ineffable miracles and Thy voluntary Crucifixion. So the devils are driven out in fear and the heretics, their fellow workers, lament in shame and sorrow. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Sessional Hymn)

Moses, in the season of abstinence, received the law and proclaimed it to the people. Elijah by fasting closed the heavens; and the three children of Abraham through fasting overcame the lawless tyrant. Count us worthy, O Christ, through fasting to attain the Feast of the Resurrection, as we cry aloud: "Holy God, Holy and Strong, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us!" (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Praises)

The Triumph of Orthodoxy must occur in the heart, and will be because of doing simple things, as the Gospel teaches today. (mp3 format)

Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?
Come and see!
John 1:43-51
2012-03-05
SYNOPSIS:Orthodoxy and life is very deep and complex, but the essence of Christian life is simple. The Gospel today teaches us a simple way, and if we obey the simple apostolic command, we will not be confounded. If we think too much, we will always be confused. We look at the calling of Nathaniel and the simple way he was told to approach his doubts; this applies to EVERY doubt and difficulty in our life. "Come and see!" is the only door to the triumph of Orthodoxy, that is, the fullness of the indwelling of God, in our hearts.

1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Can There Any Good Thing Come Out Of Nazareth
Come And See
John 1-43-51
2013-03-24

"Follow me" and &come and see", and you will know the Triumph of Orthodoxy in your heart. (mp3 format)

Triumph Of Orthodoxy
John 1:43-51
2014-03-08
SYNOPSIS:Why is the encounter of Jesus with Philip and Nathaniel the Gospel reading for the first Sunday of Lent, the Triumph of Orthodoxy? It is because this triumph is an intensely personal one, with the Lord seeking our each of us, telling us to follow Him. We must heed the words of Philip (and those of a pastor, who says them daily), "Come and see" This is a process, and must be cultivated, and if we do, the "greater things" that Jesus promised to Nathaniel will be our as well, and the triumph of Orthodoxy will be fully energized in our heart - union with God and perfection.

Iconology and Christology in the hymns from the Triodion for the Sunday of Triumph of Orthodoxy (mp3 format)

2014-03-08
SYNOPSIS:The hymns from the Triodion clearly show the relationship between icons and the incarnation of Jesus Christ, and explain the real triumph of Orthodoxy that occurs in the human heart. We look at a few representative hymns from the Triodion:

Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. Sunday of Orthodoxy, Vespers, Lord I have cried, Tone VI, spec. mel.: #39;Having set all your hope#39;

We venerate Thy holy icon, loving Lord, / asking Thee to pardon our transgressions, Christ our God. / For Thou of Thine own will wast pleased in the flesh to ascend upon the Cross, / so to deliver from the bondage of the enemy those whom Thou hast fashioned. / Therefore in thanksgiving we cry aloud to Thee: // Thou hast filled all things with joy, our Savior, when Thou hast come to save the world. Sunday of Orthodoxy, Troparion Tone II:

The uncircumscribed Word of the Father became circumscribed taking flesh from thee, O Theotokos, / and He has restored the sullied image to its ancient glory, filling it with the divine beauty. / This our salvation we confess in deed and word, // and we depict it in the holy icons. Sunday of Orthodoxy, Kontakion Tone VIII:

Depicting Thy divine form in icons, O Christ, we openly proclaim Thy Nativity, Thine ineffable miracles and Thy voluntary Crucifixion. So the devils are driven out in fear and the heretics, their fellow-workers, lament in shame and sorrow. Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Sessional Hymn, tone 1

"Without guile, and with patience, COME AND SEE, and thou shalt see greater things than these". Sunday of the Triumph of Orthodoxy (mp3 format)

Without Guile And With Patience Come And See And Thou Shalt See Greater Things Than These
John 1-43-51-Hebrews 12-1
2015-03-01
SYNOPSIS:When you look at an icon, you should understand what the triumph of Orthodoxy is. It is not that we can venerate icons freely. It is that God became man, and the image of the icon tells us: "you can become perfected" the Gospel and Epistle today give us the way to perfection, if we unpack the things said to the guiless Nathaniel and add an essential ingredient from St Paul: "Without guile, and with patience, COME AND SEE, and thou shalt see greater things than these".

"Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed..." The Triumph of Orthodox is only understood by understanding the Incarnation. (mp3 format)

Vespers For Sunday Of The Triumph Of Orthodoxy
2016-03-19
SYNOPSIS:A very quick history about Iconoclasm and the restoration of the Icons, which we celebrate the first Sunday of Great Lent, and then an explanation of what the "Triumph of Orthodoxy" really is. It is VERY personal and is well explained by one of the hymns said at Vespers: "Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee...". The significance is an idea, unique to Orthodoxy, about what salvation is. To explain it, we must give a short primer on the Incarnation. At the end, an exhortation to buy service books, and read them, along with a little personal confession.

Why icons? & "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth", "Come and see." (mp3 format)

Sunday of Orthodoxy
First Sunday of Great Lent
John 1:43-51
2017
SYNOPSIS:The encounter between Nathaniel and Jesus is read on the Sunday of Orthodoxy. Why? To know this we must describe a little bit about this Sunday and why ikons are important and theologically correct, and the various "senses" of scripture - the theological, allegorical, instructional, practical and, especially the moral sense. If we do not know the moral sense of scripture, we have no profit. We explore the "moral sense" of the question "Can any good thing come out of Nazareth", and the encouraging answer: "Come and see." Great Lent is the time when we struggle to obey this command, with great expectation.

Sunday of Orthodoxy. Why Icons? Why Iconoclasm? How do they differ from Western Religious Pictures? Why does it matter? (mp3 format)

Sunday of Orthodoxy
Theology of the icon
2017
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday of Orthodoxy explained. What is iconoclasm? Where did it come from and why? A description of the reasons for the iconoclasm of Islam. What does the depiction of Jesus Christ on an icon teach? Since we are spiritual and immaterial, the fact that we can depict the God-Man, Jesus Christ has enormous implications for our salvation. Also, a discussion of the critical artistic and theological difference between Western religious pictures and Orthodox icons. This homily is part of a catechetical series for inquirers.

Icons and the incarnation, and our salvation. (Adobe PDF format)

Triumph of Orthodoxy
2018-02-24
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of two hymns from the Vespers service for the Triumph of Orthodoxy, which teach the core dogmas of icons, and the incarnation, and how we are saved.

COMMENT:

Patience. It is active, never passive. It is from faith, and work. It is from knowledge, given by God to those who labor. (mp3 format)

John 1:43-51 Hebrews 12:1
2018-02-25
SYNOPSIS:The readings for the first Sunday of Great Lent are in an open and hidden way about patience, without which, we cannot be saved.

The Implication of icons: He has restored the sullied image to its ancient glory. (mp3 format)

The Triumph of Orthodoxy.
Hebrews 12:1
2019
SYNOPSIS:The Feast of the Triumph of Orthodoxy celebrates the final restoration of icons. The veneration of icons teaches us two important things about Jesus and our faith — that God who is infinite, in the incarnation took on our finite human nature; and that in doing so, he made it possible for us to be like Him. The fact of the Incarnation leads us into an even greater and more compelling truth — that like the icons of the ancient Church, our human nature has been restored by Christ. This reality makes it possible for us to do what before was impossible; to be like God, to perfect that icon of God planted in our souls from the moment our creation. The lives of the saints testify to the possibility that we can become radically better, radically closer to God. If we can, why don't we? What reason do we have for not even trying?
COMMENT:Also on YouTube: (orthodoxnet) and Facebook, on our Church Web page (): https://www.facebook.com/orthodoxnet/videos/1927705570673670/

"He restored the defiled image to its ancient state ... and suffused it with Divine beauty" This is the Triumph of Orthodoxy. (mp3 format)

Sunday of Orthodoxy
2020-03-08
SYNOPSIS:On the 1st Sunday of Great Lent we celebrate the restoration of the Holy icons, and also call this day the "Triumph of Orthodoxy" We discuss the most important parts of the encounter of Nathaniel with Jesus Christ, and the Kontakion for the feast, which perfectly describes what Philip told Nathaniel to "Come and see", why this is the "Triumph of Orthodoxy", and why this triumph is so closely associated with icons.

"The uncircumscribable Word of the Father was circumscribed when he took flesh of thee, O Theotokos; and when He had restored the defiled image to its ancient state, He suffused it with divine beauty. As for us, confession our salvation, we record it in deed and word." Kontakion, Tone 6

The Triumph of Orthodoxy is lived in the heart. (RTF format)

2021-03-21
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:On the first Sunday of Great Lent we celebrate the restoration of the veneration of the holy icons and we call this Sunday the “Triumph of Orthodoxy.” What is this triumph? It’s not primarily about the icons. It is lived in the heart. The gospel and the epistle read today proves that emphatically.

Second Sunday of Great Lent

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

2002

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Paralytic
How do we get past the press? Get up on the roof.
Mark 2:1-12
2002
Also in Format: Word DOC

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Paralytic
Mark 2:1-12
2004

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Gregory Palamas
Mark 2:1-12
2007-03-04

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Paralytic
When Jesus Saw Their Faith
Mark 2:1-12
2008-03-23

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Saint Gregory Palamas and the Healing of the paralytic borne of four.
The answer to the question: "Can anything good come out of Nazareth
Mark 2:1-12, John 1:43-51
2009-02-28
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Second Sunday of Great Lent is like a second "Triumph of Orthodoxy", because the teachings of St Gregory Palamas are remembered. He answers the question posed last week:"Can any good thing come out of Nazareth?" with resounding eloquence. The healing of the paralytic also contributes to answering this all important question, and indeed Great Lent especially, and our entire life nust be an answer to this question.

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Paralytic
We must labor to be healed of our spiritual paralysis.
Hebrews 1:10-2:3 Mark 2:1-12
2009-03-15
COMMENT:You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms: Yahoo, MySpace, Metacafe, DailyMotion, Blip.tv and Veoh

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Gregory Palamas I Am The Door By Me If Any Man Enter In He Shall Be Saved And Shall Go In And Out And Find Pasture
John 10-9-16
2011-03-11
SYNOPSIS:This is an important discussion, too wonderful to believe for most Christians, but absolutely true, and the main teaching of St Gregory Palamas: To be Christian is to become perfect. The Gospel for St. Gregory teaches this in a hidden way, when it says: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture". Let us look in wonder at his teaching, the Gospel John 10:9-16, and the Matins Theotokion: "Adam's nature was made Godlike O Virgin, when without undergoing change, God took flesh within thy womb, and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming Gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation", and how we are to pursue perfection.

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Paralytic Borne Of Four
Sin Sickness Faith Prayer
Mark 2-1-12
2011-03-13
SYNOPSIS:2nd Sunday of Great Lent

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Personalizing the prodigal son
Adam's nature was made godlike
Matins
2011-03-20
SYNOPSIS:In an ongoing series of commentary on the service texts between Vespers and Matins at the vigil, we look at the Parable of the prodigal son, which the church explores in a very personal way throughout all of Great Lent. So should we look at this parable in a very personal way, and especially the canon at matins gives us an example of how to do this, such as: "I fed on dark and swinish thoughts when, like the Prodigal, I left Thee, O Savior, and went into a far country; but now I cry: I have sinned; save me, for fervently I run for refuge to Thy tender mercy. (Second Sunday of Great Lent, Matins, Ode 3)". We discuss what sin REALLY is - it is not just things we do or do not do, and it almost always is a product of our thoughts, attitudes, disposition. We also explore the beautiful, intricate and dogmatic theology in one of the theotokia of the matins canon: " Adams nature was made godlike, O Virgin, when without undergoing change God took flesh within thy womb; and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation" (Second Sunday of Great Lent, Theotokion, Matins, Ode 3)

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Salvation defined: "If any man enter in he shall be saved and shall go in and out and find pasture"
Saint Gregory Palamas and the healing of the paralytic borne of four
John 10:9-16, Mark 2:1-12
2011-03-20
SYNOPSIS:The reading for St Gregory Palamas today contains a beautiful "definition" of salvation:"If any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture" This is true freedom, where the will is able to always choose the right way. We explore how we can obtain this kind of freedom, which the world does not understand, using examples from both Gospels read today.

Saint Gregory Palamas & the Gospel: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." teach that Christianity is to become perefect. Not many believe this. How are we to pursue perfection? (mp3 format)

John 10:9-16
2012-03-11
SYNOPSIS:This is an important discussion, too wonderful to believe for most Christians, but absolutely true, and the main teaching of St Gregory Palamas: To be Christian is to become perfect. The Gospel for St. Gregory teaches this in a hidden way, when it says: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture". Let us look in wonder at his teaching, the Gospel John 10:9-16, and the Matins Theotokion: "Adam's nature was made Godlike O Virgin, when without undergoing change, God took flesh within thy womb, and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming Gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation", and how we are to pursue perfection.

The Healing of the Paralytic borne of four teaches us about sin, sickness, saving faith and that we must help our brother. (mp3 format)

Mark 2:1-12
2012-03-12
SYNOPSIS:Why do we speak of the Paralytic borne of four during Great Lent? It is because we must learn that we are paralytics because of sin, and the relationship of sin to sickeness, physical and mental. We must also learn what saving faith is and that we must help out our brother.

The healing of the paralytic borne of four; what is the press and how do we defeat it? (mp3 format)

Mark 2:1-12
2013-03-31
SYNOPSIS:In the healing of the paralytic borne of four, the helpers of the paralytic could not reach Jesus because of the press (the crowd), and with great effort and ingenuity, found a way to present their friend before Jesus by making a hole in the roof. The "press" has deep theological meaning. It can be described by several words starting with "P": PASSIONS, PRIORITIES, PEOPLE, our PAST and PATTERNS in our life. We look at each of these, with much practical advice about defeating them.

What is the main teaching of Gregory Palamas & practical advice about the Jesus prayer. (mp3 format)

2014-03-15

Gregory Palamas: ideas can lead to life or death. How to cultivate salvific ideas. (mp3 format)

2014-03-16

"He shall go in and out and find pasture" Salvation described, and the path to it: activity! (mp3 format)

John 10:9-16 Mark 2:1-12
2015-03-08
SYNOPSIS:Orthodox Christians think of salvation differently than other believers in Christ. For us, it is not just forgiveness of sins; it is freedom! This is not freedom as the world understands it. This freedom is described by out Lord when he promises that the follower of the shepherd shall "go in and out and find pasture" Freedom of the will is acquired by activity, which is indicated in this Gospel and the one for the day, about the healing of the paralytic, when the Lord commands him to "Rise, take up thy bed and walk".

St Gregory Palamas teaches the main difference between Orthodox and Catholicism or any other Christian confession. (mp3 format)

Gregory Palamas
2016-03-28
SYNOPSIS:On the 2nd Sunday of Great Lent, we celebrate the memory of St Gregory Palamas. More than any other Father, he is known for teaching about the uncreated Divine Light of God. His teaching demarcates a huge gulf between Orthodox and the other Christian confessions. First, a minute of history, then illustrate his teaching, which is centered on the Incarnation, using part of the reading for the Sunday from Hebrews, and then continuing with the words of St Paul which follow. (Hebrews 2:3-18)

Three important lessons from the Healing of the Paralytic, borne of 4: Obstacles, action, and what do you want? (mp3 format)

Mark 2:1-12
2017
SYNOPSIS:Life is a continual struggle over obstacles, most of which are from ourselves. We must react to the grace God gives us. Most of this reaction is apparently mundane things. We must know what is most important in our life. Reacting to the grace of God is just doing the next right thing.

He shall go in and out... Gregory Palamas, Hesychasm, and FREEDOM. (mp3 format)

St Gregory Palamas
John 10:9
2018-03-04
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel reading for St Gregory Palamas includes the promise regarding those who follow the shpherd: "If any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out and find pasture". This is a description of freedom. How do we obtain this freedom, and what is it? The world does not know, but the teachings and example of St Gregory tell us.

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Healing Of The Paralytic
Why Do So Many Bad Things Happen
Heb-12-Mark 2-1-12
2019
SYNOPSIS:2nd Sunday of Great Lent

The healing of the paralytic. Why do bad things happen in the world? (mp3 format)

Mark 2:1-12
2019-03-24
SYNOPSIS:In the healing of the paralytic, Jesus first forgave the man’s sins. Why did He do it in this order? Why do bad things happen in the world? What is the greatest crisis in the world today? Understanding this healing answers all of those questions and gives us a way we should live.

2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Belief And Action
Raising Of The Paralytic
Mark-2-1-12
2020

St Gregory Palamas, Defining the purpose of life and Great Lent, and what our end will be. (mp3 format)

2021-03-28
SYNOPSIS:The Second Sunday of Great Lent, we commemorate St. Gregory Palamas, so it is appropriate for us to talk about Gregory’s teaching and how it defines perfectly the purpose of life and what our end will be. And is attainable even though it is fantastic and almost impossible to imagine! We also talk about Great Lent and how it is the best time of the year the focus on our purpose, and look at some of the hymns of the day illustrate these things.
SYNOPSIS:3rd Sunday of Great Lent

Third Sunday of Great Lent

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Holy Cross
2001

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)

Holy Cross 1
2001

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Holy Cross
2003

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Русская версия PDF format)

Holy Cross
2004
Also in Format: Русская версия RTF or mp3

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Adobe PDF format)

Holy Cross Rus
2004
Also in Format: Word DOC

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Veneration Of The Holy Cross
2004

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

The Veneration Of The Holy Cross
2007-03-11

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Holy Cross
Two Ways
Mark 8:34-91
2008-03-30

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Adoration of the Precious Cross
Whosover will...
2009-03-22

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Veneration Of The Holy Cross
We cannot see the Kingdom of God come with power unless we follow the way of the cross.
Mark 8:34-9:1
2010-03-07

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Holy Cross
Before Thy Cross We Bow Down And Worship
2011-03-26
SYNOPSIS:Why do we prostrate before the Cross, even on Sunday? An explanation of the hymn before the cross: "Before Thy cross, we bow down in worship, O Master, and Thy holy resurrection, we glorify"

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Holy Cross
What Shall A Man Give In Exchange For His Soul
Mark 8:34-9:1
2011-03-27
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel for the Cross asks two great questions, which are *NOT* rhetorical. We must answer every momene the question "What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" Everything in life - whatever we desire, do, think or say - is an exchange.

"Seeing then that we have a great high priest..." The reason this epistle, which does not mention the cross is read on the Sunday of the Cross. (mp3 format)

Epistle for Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Hebrews 4:14-5:6
2012-03-17
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Exaltation of the Cross never mentions the cross. There are many epistles that mention the cross; why was this one chosen?

What is the way of the cross, and what does the Lord mean when He tells us to deny ourselves? What are the answers to the questions? (mp3 format)

Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Mark 8:34-9:1
2012-03-18
SYNOPSIS:The entire Gospel is important, but some passages are absolutely critical to understand and follow. This is one of them. It explains what the way of the cross is, and teaches a principle that we must use literally every moment of our lives - to learn to always make a good "exchange". We explain what the Lord means when He commands us to "deny" ourselves, and what the answers to His questions: "What shall it profit a man..." and "What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" must be. These are not rhetorical questions - you must answer them.

"There be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power." why did Jesus say this after solemly telling us 4 times to take up the cross? This is very important, if you want to not drop your cross. (mp3 format)

Exaltation Of The Holy Cross
Mark 8:34-9:1
2013-04-07
SYNOPSIS:Immediately after solemnly commanding us in 4 different ways to take up our cross, Jesus gave what might appear to be an out of context prophesy: "There be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power." This prophesy was fulfilled in part by the Transfiguration, but it is much more than that; it is the consolation that we need to take up our cross. When things are difficult, we must be viscerally aware of our the divinity and humanity of our Lord. The Gospel tells us of His divinity, and the epistle of His humanity.

What should we feel when we prostate during "Before Thy Cross..." (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Cross.
2014-03-22
SYNOPSIS:We must learn how to feel the troparion "Before Thy Cross, we bow down in worship" as we are prostrating before the cross. this is a moment in the church year that we cannot miss, when our body and soul pray as one, and the mystery of life is explained to us in words that cannot be uttered.

What is "life"? You cannot understand the cross unless you understand life. (mp3 format)

Sunday of the Cross
Mark 8:34-9:1
2014-03-23
SYNOPSIS:We cannot understand the cross, and the way of the cross unless we understand life. What is life? Most people do not know the answer to this simple question or understand why the way of the cross is the only way to have life, or understand what is meant when we are told to "lose our life", or that everything in our life is an exchange - with life or death.

"Before Thy cross, we bow down in worship O Master.." Explanation of why we do prostrations. (mp3 format)

2015-03-14
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of why we do prostrations before the Cross, when we sing "Before Thy cross, we bow down in worship, O Master, and Thy holy resurrection, we glorify", even though prostrations on Sundays are not done on any other Sunday of the year.

Prostrations before the cross teach the way of life. (mp3 format)

Mark 8:34-9:1
2015-03-15
SYNOPSIS:The prostrations we do before the Cross teach us the way of life. Our basic problem is selfishness, which always leads to meaningless suffering and death, described by the Lord as "whosoever will save his life shall lose it". The way of life is submission to the will of God, described by our Lord as "taking up the cross". This way is not suffering! It is a way of joy for those who experience it in its fullness. Do the prostrations with this feeling and you will know that you can be totally free!

Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (mp3 format)

Third Sunday of Great Lent Adoration of the Precious Cross.
Mark 8:34-9:1
2017
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday of the Adoration of the Precious Cross, we hear the words: "Whosoever will come after me...". These words presuppose that we know our purpose, and have made a free decision to order our life in a certain way. In this world, such a decision is rare. Those who make this decision (and only those) understand the following life-giving command: "let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." Such a person understands what "denial" is. The world does not understand. Worldly Christians do not understand. Only a Christian who has decided to follow Christ, and continues to "decide" understands this "denial". It is recognizing what is bad, and not doing it, and the taking up of the cross is obedience to the commandments, with all of one's strength.

The Cross tells us Jesus knows our infirmities and will help us. (Adobe PDF format)

Sunday of the Veneration of the Precious Cross.
Hebrews 4:15-15:6
2018-03-11
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:The message of the Cross. The Cross tells us Jesus knows our infirmities and will help us. We explore this message from a passage from John Climacus and the Epistle read today. They are both about bringing our infirmities before God, and we know that we will be helped because of the cross.

How do we obtain boldness? First the cross, then the resurrection. (mp3 format)

Exaltation of the Precious Cross
Hebrews 4:15-16 Mark 8:34-35,9-1
2019-03-31
SYNOPSIS:The epistle today exhorts us: "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace". Where does this boldness come from? The Gospel today explains: we must choose to take up our cross and follow Christ. We look at the readings today, and the hymn of the cross that we sing when we make prostrations: "Before Thy Cross, we bow down and worship O master, and Thy holy Resurrection we glorify!", in light of two spiritual principles: "first the cross then the resurrection", and "first obedience and then following, understanding".

3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mark 8:34-9-1
2021-04-04
SYNOPSIS:After the Lord instructed his disciples about the taking up of the cross, he told them: "There be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power." What is this "power?" It is not power as the world understands it. It is much greater than that power, which always has an end, and does not enlighten the soul. Do you want this power? Take up your cross willingly, and you shall have it.

Fourth Sunday of Great Lent

4th Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)

1999

4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Demoniac Boy
2001
Also in Format: Word DOC

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Before Last Judgement
2004

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Demoniac Boy
2004

4th Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)

2007-03-18

4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Saint John Climacus
2007-03-18
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Realistic Hope
Mark 9:17-31
2008-04-06

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

2009-03-29

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Demoniac Boy
2010-03-14

4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

The Significance Of Fasting In The Struggle Against Fallen Spirits
By St Ignatius Brianchaninov
2011
Also in Format: Word DOC

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Dark Sorrow Of Material Things
Sweetness Of Abstinence
2011-03-30

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Scourged By The Whips Of Sin
Understanding Sin And Repentance
2011-04-02

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

What Does Fasting Do
Mark 9-17-31
2011-04-03

4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son
If Thou Canst Believe All Things Are Possible To Him That Believeth
Mark 9-17-31
2012-03-25
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

See Then That Ye Walk Circumspectly Not As Fools But As Wise Redeeming The Time
Ephesians 5-9-19
2013-04-14

4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

If Thou Canst Believe All Things Are Possible To Him That Believeth
Mark 9-17-31
2014-03-30

The Healing of the Demoniac Son, as a Scriptural parable. (mp3 format)

John Climacus
Mark 9:17-31
2016
SYNOPSIS:On the 4th Sunday of Great Lent, we read about the exorcism of the demoniac son. Although this is a historical event, it can also be very beneficial to read it like a Scriptural parable. It has very good news for us, but not pie in the sky good news. It tells us what we must do, and what God will do, honestly talks about the process, and that things are going to be alright, even though we do not have the power to do the stuff we must do. This homily was the best answer I could give to someone who said that everyone is tired and needs a "pep talk"

Answer to a critical question - how to learn to "get it". Healing of the Demoniac Son. 4th Sunday of Great Lent. (mp3 format)

Mark 9:17-31
2018-03-18
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read the Gospel about the healing of the Demoniac son on the 4th Sunday of Great Lent? It is not about the story, but because the story occured as Jesus was going to Jerusalem for His passion. The disciples did not understand Jesus, even though He told them many times what was going to happen. We are like that too! Why is it that we do not understand and do basic and obvious things? This is a hard question to answer, but a more important question to answer is answered in this story - how are we going to start doing what is right and stop doing what is wrong?

"See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time" – applied to our foolish times (mp3 format)

Walking Circumspectly
Process Of Believing
2021
SYNOPSIS:The epistle for St. John Climacus includes the commandment "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." The Gospel for the Sunday is about the demoniac boy and the father who had belief but asked for help with his unbelief. We relate these two Scripture readings to our evil times when people (and even Orthodox clergy and bishops) are not living circumspectly but with disbelief. Our days are marked with fear because of unbelief, we comment on how fear has affected the church regarding how we all gather for worship, give communion, and react to the coronavirus, and how we should evaluate whether or not we should take the vaccine. Everything in our life whether it appears to be secular or not must be approached circumspectly and with belief, and the knowledge that we must ask the Lord to help us with our unbelief - and we must understand that coming to full belief is a process. We must apply that process as much to the pandemic, and whether or not we take the vaccine and as much as anything else in life.

Fifth Sunday of Great Lent

5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

1999
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:5th Sunday of Great Lent

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
2002

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
2004

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Mary Of Egypt
2007-03-25

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Mary Of Egypt
Who Loves The Most
Luke 7:36-50
2008-04-14

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

2009-04-05

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

2010-03-21

5th Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)

2011-04-09

5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)

Mary Of Egypt Shows Us How To Repent
How To Cultivate A Repentanct Spirit
2011-04-09
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Her Sins Which Are Many Are Forgiven For She Loved Much But To Whom Little Is Forgiven The Same Loveth Little
Luke 7-36-50, Mark 10-32-45
2011-04-10

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

As Many As Have Been Baptized Into Christ Have Put On Christ
How Much More Shall The Blood Of Christ Purge Your Conscience From Dead Works
Hebrews 9-11-14-Galatians 3-23-29
2012-03-31

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Learning Takes Time
A Lesson In Humility
Mark 10-32-45
2012-04-01

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Greatest Miracle In The Life Of Saint Mary Of Egypt
2013-04-20

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Repentance And Gratitude
Her Sins Are Forgiven For She Loved Much But To Whom Little Is Forgiven The Same Loveth Little
Luke 7-36-50
2013-04-21

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Mary Of Egypt
The Others In The Story
2014-04-03

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Mary Of Egypt
The Crowd And Person Who Gave The Coins
2014-04-04

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Saint Mary Of Egypt
The Youth Who Laughed
2014-04-04

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
Priest At Church Of John The Baptist As Many As Have Been Baptised Into Christ Have Put On Christ
Gal 3-23-29
2014-04-05

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
What Is Repentance
Luke 7-36-50
2014-04-06

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
Fire In The Belly
Hebrews 9-14
2015-03-29

The life of St Mary of Egypt as a parable, compared to the Parable of the Prodigal Son. (mp3 format)

2016-04-17
SYNOPSIS:The life of St Mary of Egypt is real history, and every word of it is true, how never it has striking parallels and important differences with the parable of the prodigal son. Why do we tell and hear parables? In order to improve! We have much to get better at, and the life of St Mary gives us great encouragement and a great rebuke. We tell it in the context of the parable of the prodigal son, so that we can get better.

Stony insensibility, faith, humility, love. St Mary of Egypt and St Nectarios teach about all these. (mp3 format)

6th Sunday of Great Lent: Mary of Egypt
St Nectarios of Aegena
Mark 10:32-45, Luke 7:36-50
2017-04-02
SYNOPSIS:A synthesis of the two Gospels read today (Mark 10:32-45, then Luke 7:36-50) , and two Saints very similar in essence, although different in external life: Mary of Egypt, and Nectarios of Aegina. In proving their similarity, we discuss the sin of "stony insensibility", and that we MUST suffer if we are to be true Christians (and what this suffering ALWAYS must entail, regardless of whether we suffer in any "physical" or other ways, such as the Martyrs, St Mary and St Nectarios did). We also discuss humility, and being a servant, as illustrated in the amazing life of St Nectarios, and the comparison of St Mary with the woman "who was a sinner", who truly loved our Lord. The crux of the similarity between these two saints, and all who love God is the enigmatic saying of our Lord: "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little." Here, two kinds of love are described, and we must possess both, if we are to truly be Christians.

5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
Her Sins Which Are Many Are Forgiven For She Loved Much
2019

St Mary of Egypt, and the only kind of love that brings forgiveness and compels a Christian to act. (mp3 format)

St Mary of Egypt
Luke 7:36-50
2020-04-05
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel about the woman who was a "sinner" is read for St. Mary of Egypt. The Lord said that this woman was forgiven because she loved much. We talk about this kind of love, which St. Mary showed so abundantly. This love compels a person to act in extravagant and wondrous ways. If we are not compelled to act, we don’t really love, and we are not forgiven. We cite many examples in the Scripture of this, and how this kind of love must be present during the time of calamities, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

St. Mary of Egypt did not have communion for 47 years. Does this apply to our situation, with churches closed because of the pandemic? (mp3 format)

2020-05-04
SYNOPSIS:Many people are saying that it is a great deprivation to have the churches close to the public and therefore not be able to take holy Communion regularly, and others are citing the life of St. Mary of Egypt and her 47 year fast from holy Communion. They say that she did fine, and for the most part they are missing the point. We examine three paramount virtues of St. Mary’s life that are much more important than the historical fact that she did not have fully Communion for many years. Without these virtues, it doesn’t matter if you have only communion or not.

We must do what we are *able* to do. The life of St Mary of Egypt. (mp3 format)

Mary Of Egypt
2021-04-18
SYNOPSIS:The Life of St Mary teaches two critical things we must know about repentance. The first is that God will forgive anything, and this is an important point because there are people that do not believe that God will forgive them. The second is ***as important*** because we accomplish repentance by labor. There is always labor! Let us look at St. Mary’s labor and see if we can learn to labor a little bit more in our repentance. We will not labor as St. Mary did because her repentance was exceptional however we must labor according to the things that we can do. Also in Video:https://youtu.be/YGebpJqVNrU

"I have been wounded by the sword of pleasure, O Lord" Lent is a school to teach us to pursue happiness, not pleasure. (mp3 format)

3rd Tuesday of Great LentTuesday
Sticheron From Vespers
2016
SYNOPSIS:Comments on a hymn from Vespers, Tue, week 3 of Great Lent explaining the difference between pleasure and happiness: "I have been wounded by the sword of pleasure, O Lord, / and a shameful death has befallen me. / O Master, pierced by a spear, / who as Savior bringest healing to those wounded by the arrows of the enemy, / heal and restore to life my humble soul, // and grant me to share in Thy Holy Passion."

Fourth Week of Great Lent (mp3 format)

He Sighed And Saith Unto Him Ephphatha That Is Be Opened
All That Are In The Graves Shall Hear His Voice
Mark 7-31-37-John 5-24-30
2015-03-21

Lazarus Saturday

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Is Now
John 11:1-45
2008-01-19

Lazarus Saturday (HTML format)

Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Applies To Us Now
John 11-1-45
2009
Also in Format: Word DOC

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
Childrens Homily
John 11-1-45
2010

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
The Entrance Into Holy Week And The Prophesy Of Our Resurrection
John 11-1-45
2010

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
I Am The Resurrection And The Life He That Believeth In Me Though He Were Dead Yet Shall He Live
John 11-1-45
2011-04-13

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
In Confirming The Common Resurrection And Other Reasons Why Lazarus Was Raised
John 11-1-45
2011-04-15

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
Exegesis Of The Raising Of Lazarus Story
John 11-1-45
2011-04-16

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
The Raising Of Lazarus And Our Sins
2013-04-27

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
Lord If Thou Hadst Been Here My Brother Had Not Died
John 11-1-45
2014-04-12

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
Having Completed The Forty Days Grant Us Also To Behold The Holy Week Of Thy Passion
2015-04-03

Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)

Lazarus Saturday
Understanding Death And Resurrection And Groaning Within
Luke 11
2015-04-04

Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

These Things They Did Not Understand At First
John 12:1-18
2008-04-21

Palm Sunday (Word DOC format)

2009-04-12
Also in Format: mp3

Palm Sunday (HTML format)

Palm Sunday
2010-03-28
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
Philippians 4-4-9-John 12-1-18
2011-04-08
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read this epistle on Palm Sunday, since it is not about suffering, or the cross or the resurrection? There are many other epistles about these things, but this epistle contains instructions that must be applied during Holy Week in order to truly benefit from Pascha. We can understand how to apply the Apostle Paul's instructions by looking at the good and bad examples in today's Gospel, such as Mary, who annointed the Lord, Judas, the people, and the high priests. There are many lessons here, and all of Holy Week will contain many more. The Lord is at hand!

Palm Sunday (Word DOC format)

Learning Humility By Recounting The Events Of Holy Week
2011-04-17
Also in Format: mp3

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

Rejoice In The Lord Alway And Again I Say Rejoice
Philippians 4-4-9
2011-04-17

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
Philippians 4-4-9-John 12-1-18
2012-04-08

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
Entry Into Jerusalem Understood In A Spiritual Way
Luke 19-37-44
2013-04-28

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
How To Be Like Children And Be Saved
Matthew 21-1-11
2013-04-28

Palm Sunday (HTML format)

The Lord Is At Hand
Philippians 4-4-9
2014-04-13
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

What pushed Judas over the edge and made him into a traitor? And what will preserve us? (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
John 12:1-18 Philippians 4:4-9
2017-04-09
SYNOPSIS:Bad news and the very good news today. The bad news: What caused the transformation of Judas from a disciple to a traitor? It was not just his avarice. Something pushed him over the edge. This must resonate with us, because we are capable of being Judas. The admonition and promises of St Paul to the Philippians teaches us everything we need to know to never be like Judas, and this is indeed very good news.

Palm Sunday (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
Expectations Desires Only Love
2018

Palm Sunday: The people praised God but did not endure. How do we endure? Two necessities. (mp3 format)

Palm Sunday
Philippians 4:4-9
2019-04-22
SYNOPSIS:Many people who praised Jesus when He entered Jerusalem a few days later condemned him, as a hymn from the service teaches: "First they sang in praise of Christ our God with branches, but then the ungrateful Jews seized Him and crucified Him on the cross. But with faith unchanging let us ever honor Him as Benefactor, crying always unto Him: Blessed art Thou that comest to call back Adam." How can we be different than them? It does not just happen by magic, or if we are passive. The epistle today tells us two necessities - inner prayer with rejoicing, and Christian morality.

Holy Week

Holy Monday

Holy Monday (mp3 format)

Fig Tree Faith Obedience Fruit
Great Monday Matins
Matthew 21-18-43
2012-04-08

Holy Monday (mp3 format)

Fig Tree Scribes Scribes Question Jesus The First Son The Vineyard
Great Monday Matins
Matthew 21-18-43
2014-04-13

Holy Tuesday

Holy Tuesday (HTML format)

Judas With Avaricious Thoughts Accepts The Darkness
The Progression Of Sin Into Self Imposed Slavery
2011-04-18
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Holy Tuesday (mp3 format)

He Falls Away From The Light And Accepts The Darkness
Great-Tuesday-Matins
2012-04-10

Holy Tuesday (mp3 format)

Great Monday Presanctified
Because Iniquity Shall Abound The Love Of Many Shall Wax Cold
Matthew 24-3-35
2014-04-14

Holy Tuesday (mp3 format)

Great Tuesday Matins
God Is Not The God Of The Dead But Of The Living He That Is Greatest Among You Shall Be Your Servant
Matthew 22-15-23-39
2014-04-14

Holy Tuesday (mp3 format)

Great Tuesday Presanctified
After Two Days Is The Feast Of The Passover And The Son Of Man Is Betrayed To Be Crucified
Matthew 24-36-26-2
2014-04-15

Holy Wednesday

Holy Wednesday (mp3 format)

While The Sinful Woman Brought Oil Of Myrrh The Disciple Came To An Agreement With The Transgressors
Comparing And Personalizing Judas And The Woman Of Bethany
Holy-Wednesday-Matins
2011-04-19

Holy Wednesday (mp3 format)

I Have Transgressed More Than The Harlot O Loving Lord
Cultivating The Proper Attitude To Have Regarding Our Sins And Weak Repentance
Holy-Wednesday-Matins
2011-04-20

Holy Wednesday (mp3 format)

Great Wednesday Matins
For They Loved The Praise Of Men More Than The Praise Of God
John 12-17-50
2014-04-15

Holy Wednesday (mp3 format)

Great Wednesday Presanctified
Judas And The Woman Who Annointed Jesus Compared Gratitude Vs Self Interest
Matthew 26-6-16
2016-04-14

Holy Thursday

Holy Thursday (mp3 format)

He Reckoned Up The Value Of The Oil Of Myrrh And Yet Was Not Afraid To Sell Thee Who Art Above All Price
Holy Thursday Liturgy
2011-04-21

Holy Thursday (mp3 format)

Holy Thursday Liturgy
Greatest Sin Of Judas No Anger Against Sin Action Of Communion Within Us With Exchange Of Attributes
2014-04-17

Holy Thursday (mp3 format)

Holy Thursday
Holy Communion Paschal Lamb Exchange Of Attributes
2015-04-09

Holy Friday

Holy Friday (Word DOC format)

Good Friday Sermon Before The Shroud
Archbishop Andrei Of Rockland

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

At The Tomb
2002

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

At The Tomb
2003

Holy Friday (HTML format)

At The Tomb
2009-04-17
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

Before The Tomb And Epitaphios
Behold The Man
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2010-04-02

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

Homily Before The Shroud
3 Reactions To Christ Devotion Hate Indifference
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2011-04-22

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

Homily Before The Shroud
3 Reactions To Christ Hate Love Indifference
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2011-04-22
SYNOPSIS:Holy Friday

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

Lamentation Matins Holy Friday
Prophesy Of The Dry Bones
Ezekiel 37-1-14
2012-04-14

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

Homily Before The Shroud
Purpose Problem Solution
2013-05-04

Holy Friday (mp3 format)

Homily Before The Tomb
Appearances And Reality
2016-04-29

Things that look dead are alive. For those who encounter Christ, He can change anything. Sermon before the tomb. (mp3 format)

Good Friday Homily before the Tomb
2017
SYNOPSIS:After the Vespers for the taking down of Christ from the Cross, a homily is preached in front of the tomb, before the plastinitsa (a cloth icon of Christ, lying in repose after being taken off the cross). Tombs are places for dead things, and his disciples were absolutely sure He was dead, but Christ was very much alive. So it is with things in our life. Some appear to be dead - but God is working to make them appear fully alive. This only occurs for those who encounter Christ and change.

Holy Saturday

Holy Saturday (HTML format)

Great Saturday
2002
Also in Format: RTF

Holy Saturday (RTF format)

Holy Great Saturday
2002

Holy Saturday (mp3 format)

The Resurrection Fulfils Every Need
Sunamite Woman Abraham And Ezekiel
Holy-Saturday-Liturgy-2kings 4-8-37-Genesis 22-1-18-Ezekiel 37-1-14
2011-04-23

Holy Saturday (mp3 format)

Holy Saturday Matins
Homily Of Saint Epiphanius Of Cyprus
2013-05-04

The Resurrection of the son of the Shunammite woman. The cross is nothing without Christ, the resurrection has no effect on us unless we say:"As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee" (mp3 format)

Holy Saturday
2 Kings 4:8-37
2017
SYNOPSIS:In the Holy Saturday Vespral Liturgy, among the OT lessons is the story of the resurrection of the son of the Shunamite woman, by Elisha. This is the Gospel! It describes the resurrection as much as anything in the NT, and also adds two important teachings. The cross is nothing without Christ. It is a symbol of victory only because Christ used it for His divine purpose. Otherwise, it is only simple wood. Also, the resurrection is nothing - it has no effect in our life unless, we like the Shunamite woman, always say: "As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee".

Holy Saturday: The Resurrection is happening RIGHT NOW - in wounded people. (mp3 format)

Holy Saturday
2019-04-27
SYNOPSIS:Homily directly after the Resurrectional Gospel of Holy Saturday, proclaimed before the tomb. We look at a few hymns from the Holy Saturday canon, which shows that the resurrection is happening now, in wounded people, and that Jesus Christ COMPLETELY identifies with these people - so to live in the resurrection - NOW- we must identify with Him.

The Ladder of Divine Ascent

Step 01

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 01.11 (Word DOC format)

A Firm Beginning
Learning From Monastic Examples
2018

Withdrawing from the World, as we are journeying towards God. How does a person with responsibilities in the world withdraw from it? (Adobe PDF format)

2021-03-15
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:How does a layman withdraw from the world? Commentary of Step 01.05, the Ladder of Divine Ascent: "All who have willingly left the things of the world have certainly done so either for the sake of the future Kingdom, or because of the multitude of their sins, or for love of God. If they were not moved by any of these reasons, their withdrawal from the world was unreasonable."

Step 02

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 02.01 (Adobe PDF format)

Detachment And Freedom From Anxiety Or Hesitation
Strong Words In Prayer
2018
Also in Format: Word DOC

Step 03

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 03.04 (Word DOC format)

Exile Run When You Can
Like A Gazelle From The Noose
2018

Step 04

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 04.31 (mp3 format)

Macedonius The Archdeacon Men Not Demons
2016

Step 05

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 05.01 (mp3 format)

Repentance Carefree Self Care
2016

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 05.26 (mp3 format)

Repentance
Turning Lust Into Love
2016

Step 06

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 06.09 (mp3 format)

Remembrance Of Death
Long Habit
2016

Step 07

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 07.04 (mp3 format)

Mourning
Steps In Controlling Our Thoughts
2016

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 07.43 (mp3 format)

Mourning
God Hears Inarticulate Prayer
2016

Step 08

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 08.01 (mp3 format)

Freedom From Anger
Gradual Change
2016

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 08.04 (mp3 format)

Freedom From Anger
Silence Of The Lips
2016

Step 09

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 09.05 (mp3 format)

Banishing Revenge Or Untimely Labors
2016

The Ladder of Divine Ascent Step 09.10 (mp3 format)

Remembrance Of Wrongs
Distorted Reality
2016

Baptism

Baptism (HTML format)

1997

Baptism (HTML format)

Katherine Kirk
1997-10-19
Also in Format: Word DOC

Baptism (HTML format)

1999

Baptism (HTML format)

Sven Fulanchek
1999-06-10
Also in Format: Word DOC

Baptism (mp3 format)

James
Theophany;
2001

Baptism (mp3 format)

Paula
2002-12-12

Baptism (RTF format)

Anna Park
2003-11-10
Also in Format: mp3

Baptism (mp3 format)

Marina
2003-12-29

Baptism (mp3 format)

Justina
2004

Baptism (mp3 format)

Infant Nicholas
2004-01-18

Homily given after the baptism of Nicholas Quillin (mp3 format)

Nicholas Quillin
2004-01-18
SYNOPSIS:Homily given after the baptism of Nicholas Quillin

Baptism symbols and realities. (mp3 format)

2015-10-24
SYNOPSIS:A short overview of the symbols and realities of baptism: water, the oil of gladness, chrism, and exegesis of Romans 5 regarding baptism.

Exegesis of Scripture read in the Baptism Service: Romans 6:3-11 Matthew 28:16-20. Be dead to the things that are dead, and alive to the things that are alive. (mp3 format)

Baptism of Marie, Ascension, 2016
Romans 6:3-11 Matthew 28:16-20
2016
SYNOPSIS:We must understand the purpose of baptism and what we must do after baptism. In the homily given after the baptism of Marie, all scripture read in the service is thoroughly explained, with this command always in mind: Be dead to the things that are dead, and alive to the things that are alive.

Who maketh the barren woman to … be a mother rejoicing over children. Baptism perfectly described. (mp3 format)

Psalm 112
2019-01-13
SYNOPSIS:Psalm 112 perfectly describes baptism and its most important result. At the baptism of Nonna, the last verse of this psalm is discussed along with the importance of and reason for struggling for virtue. If a person is Protestant and believed in faith only salvation, I beg them to listen to this short homily, and see how joyful Orthodox are that they are able to pursue virtue.

Baptism (mp3 format)

Lucia
Christology 101
2019-04-21

Baptism helps us become the good wine, at the end (Word DOC format)

John 2:1-11, John 10:27-38
2020-05-23
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:On the 5th Saturday of Pascha & the day of the baptism of Panteleimon, a discourse about the Gospel read on the feast day of the Apostle Simon the zealot, when the Lord Jesus Christ performed His first sign, and the Gospel of the day ("My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me") Because of baptism we can know *by experience* the voice of Jesus, and become the good wine. The whole purpose of baptism it so that we are enabled to become perfected. Do not let any part of your life be a dark recess where Christ is not, and you will know him completely and be perfected and you will be very good wine in the end.

Baptism makes it possible to live only according to truth (Word DOC format)

John 14:10-21
2020-05-30
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Homily on the Gospel for the 6th Saturday of Pascha, in which the Gospel perfectly describes the fruits of baptism. Our baptism gives us a great gift - the ability to find the truth, to live according to the truth, to expunge all that is not the truth from our life, and to be the truth. Do not be afraid of learning the truth about yourself. It is part of your healing, and your eventual perfection. This homily was given during the liturgy before the baptism of James, Agapia, and Joanna.

Crowning

Crowning (Marriage) (Word DOC format)

Nicholas And Genevieve Park
2002

Crowning (Marriage) (HTML format)

David And Elizabeth Ash
2002-06-03
Also in Format: RTF

Purpose of life and marriage. Marriage is a school. Advice about marriage. (HTML format)

Matthias (Kevin) and Natalie King
2015-05-17
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:A homily given at the crowning (marriage) of Matthias (Kevin) and Natalie. The main part is about the purpose of marriage. It entails a detailed exposition of the most important verse in Scripture: "And God said: let us make man in our own image and after our likeness" (Gen 1:26), which tells us why we were made, how we are made, Who made us, and our destiny, that is, our purpose. There is only one important question in the universe, and we discuss how to go about "answering" it. The words here apply to every Christian, and indeed, every human being, whether or not they are married. For some, the path to answering this question is an honorable marriage and a bed undefiled, and we discuss Adam's important words and prophesy about marriage: "This is bone of my bone, and flesh of my flesh. for this cause shall a man leave his father and his mother and shall cleave to his wife, and the two shall be one flesh." "This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church." (Eph 5:32).

COMMENT:Notes for this passage are found here in WORD or PDF format

Purpose of Marriage. Not as romantic as the world believes, but much more meaningful and fulfilling. (mp3 format)

Crowning of Paul and Anna.
2015-10-04
SYNOPSIS:On the occasion of the crowning of Paul and Anna, a short discourse on the mystery of marriage, emphasizing its purpose. Marriage joins two dissimilar people and teaches them to be of one mind, and to love as God loves . It is the lived out mystery of Christ and the church.

Homily at the Crowning of Timothy and Christina McFadden (mp3 format)

2016-09-04
SYNOPSIS:Homily on Marriage. From a father and priest to his daughter and son-in-law. Its purpose, exegesis of the Epistle and Gospel, and the main symbols in the crowning service - the rings, crowns, walk of Isaiah. The audio quality is a bit different than usual because it is taken from video, and there was a failure of the audio recorder.

Confession

Confession (mp3 format)

2016

A talk about confession, given in English and translated into Kikuyu to priests and church leaders in Kenya. (mp3 format)

2019-02-07
SYNOPSIS:The Most important verse in the bible.
Orthodox view of sin defined and contrasted with the typical Protestant/Roman Catholic view of sin. Everything we do in this life should be towards one thing only.
4 components to confession, with the first being 99.99% of the importance.
What is the major thing that happens in confession?
How to prepare for confession
How to be a confessor.
Questions and answers.
    Can a person go to anyone he wants for confession?
    About bad confessors.
    How to understand obedience to your confessor.
    Is confession always to a priest?
    How often should a person go to confession?

Prayer for the dead

"If we believe that Jesus died and rose again..." What the resurrection really means - NOW. (mp3 format)

Epistle for the commemoration of the dead on Saturday
1 Thessalonians 4:13-17
2017
SYNOPSIS:There is a very large word in the scriptures, with only two letters: "if". The Apostle says "If we believe that Jesus died and rose again..." We talk about what belief in the resurrection really means. The martyrs understood, our almost post-Christian society does not. We discuss worldly sorrow and Christian sorrow and an overview of last judgment. Remarks at one of the "40 days" liturgies, for +Daniel, my son.

At the funeral for Daniel: about his deep heart and how and why we pray for the dead, and how to properly keep his memory. (HTML format)

How and why Orthodox pray for the dead
The deep heart
2017-06-23
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Remarks at the funeral of Daniel Holland, from his father. His deep heart, and how and why we pray for the dead, with examples from the Akathist for the dead, and how we should remember him. It is with actions, not words.

The resurrection is not only in the future. (mp3 format)

Gospel for the commemoration of the dead on Tuesday and Saturday
John 5:24-30
2017-06-27
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel for the dead, which is read on Tuesday and Saturday, teaches emphatically that the resurrection is not only a future event. Remarks at one of the "40 days" liturgies, for +Daniel, my son.

God's perspective is different than our perspective. There is only one thing that matters. (mp3 format)

Gospel for the commemoration of the dead on Thursday
John 6:40-44
2017-06-29
SYNOPSIS:The perspective of God is not the same as our perspective, so we must change. There is only one thing that is important in life, and that is, that we will be raised up on the last day. This eternal perspective should influence everything we do that is temporal. Remarks at one of the "40 days" liturgies, for +Daniel, my son.

This corruption must put on incorruption. (mp3 format)

Epistle for the commemoration of the dead on Friday
1 Corinthians 15:47-57
2017-06-30
SYNOPSIS:About the earthy man and the spiritual man, and the amazing thing: "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption." -- BUT WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE, so: "Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed." This exalted topic is mixed with some reminiscing about the "Campus Crusade" (typical Evangelical Protestant ) view of salvation, which does not understand such things. Remarks at one of the "40 days" liturgies, for +Daniel, my son.

Matins Gospels

1st Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Introduction To Matinal Resurrectional Gospels
Believing In The Resurrection Is Hard
Matthew 28-16-20
2012-04-21

1st Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

All Power Is Given Unto Me In Heaven And In Earth
Voluntary And Involuntary Submission
Matthew 28-16-20
2013-09-14

1st Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

All Matins Resurrectional Gospels Recited
2016

2nd Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Details
Why Were Brave People Afraid
Mark 16-1-8
2013-09-21

3rd Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Resurrection Chronology
Mark 16-9-20
2012-04-28

3rd Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

He That Believeth And Is Baptized Shall Be Saved But He That Believeth Not Shall Be Damned
Mark 16-9-20
2013-09-28

5th Matins Gospel (HTML format)

The Road To Emmaus
2002-06-03
Also in Format: Word DOC

5th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

The Road To Emmaus
Did Not Our Heart Burn Within Us
Luke 24-12-35
2011-12-17

5th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

The Road To Emmaus
Did Not Our Heart Burn Within Us
Luke 24-12-35
2013-07-27

5th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Their Eyes Were Holden That They Should Not Know Him
Did Not Our Heart Burn Within Us
Luke 24-12-35
2015-04-14

6th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Peace Be Unto You
Then Opened He Their Understanding That They Might Understand The Scriptures
Luke 24-36-53
2013-08-03

7th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

For As Yet They Knew Not The Scripture That He Must Rise Again From The Dead
John 20-1-10
2013-08-10

8th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Woman Why Weepest Thou
Jesus Saith Unto Her Mary
John 20-11-18
2013-08-17

9th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Peace Be Unto You
Whose Soever Sins Ye Remit They Are Remitted Unto Them And Whose Soever Sins Ye Retain They Are Retained
John 20-19-31
2013-08-24

Matins Gospels (mp3 format)

Cast The Net On The Right Side Of The Ship And Ye Shall Find
John-211-14
2013-08-31

11st Matins Gospel (mp3 format)

Lovest Thou Me More Than These
Feed My Sheep
John 21-15-25
2013-09-07

Misc

Misc (HTML format)

About Prayer
Metropolitan Vitaly
1998

Misc (mp3 format)

Blessed Is God Who Restest In The Saints
2004

Misc (HTML format)

About Prayer
2005-01-05

Misc (mp3 format)

40 Days For Life Prayer Before A Late Term Abortion Clinic
2011-10-19

Misc (mp3 format)

Go To Sleep Giggling
World Vs Christian Way Of Life
2012-05-16

Misc (mp3 format)

It Takes A Really Good Man To Be Better Than No Man At All
Advice To Orthodox Youth At Peter The Aleut Summer Camp
2012-07-07

Misc (mp3 format)

Why Does A Priest Wear Black
Joyful Mourning Remembrance Of Death
2012-10-18

Misc (mp3 format)

Ordinary Is Made Extraordinary
2013-03-09

Misc (mp3 format)

A Man Leave His Father And His Mother And Shall Cleave Unto His Wife And They Shall Be One Flesh
Sunday Of Marriage Family And Loyalty
Genesis 2-24, Eph 5-32
2013-09-16

Misc (mp3 format)

Thanksgiving Day
Giving Thanks Is Living As The One You Thank
2014-11-27

Misc (mp3 format)

As The Lord Liveth I Will Not Leave Thee
Holy Stubborness Disobedience
2015

Misc (mp3 format)

Thanksgiving
The Heart Is Deep
Psalm 63-6
2015

Jesus is not a victim, and was never passive. We must be aggressive, especially when we pray in the liturgy. (mp3 format)

2016
SYNOPSIS:Bad theology leads to bad actions. The Western conception of Jesus is as a victim, and a passive man. He was not! We must be like the Christ we worship. We must be aggressive, and even violent. We define what this aggression and violence is and give an example that should be familiar to all – prayer in the Divine Liturgy, and explain about the sole purpose of the liturgy and role of the priest and the people in the liturgy, and that neither is more important that the other. If everyone prayed in the liturgy with violence, there would be flame!

Misc (HTML format)

The Soul Purpose Of Life Remembrance Of Death Prayer Of The Heart
2016
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Fasting in Great Lent - good for you if you succeed or fail as long as you try. (mp3 format)

2017
SYNOPSIS:Just 3 minutes, about fasting. It is good for us if we succeed or if we fail. The benefits of both are discussed.

Misc (mp3 format)

Grace And Mercy Compared
Paisios The Athonite
Romans 12-6
2017

Parish Meeting, Pastoral Remarks: That we would all become paradise. 2/19/2017 (HTML format)

Parish Meeting Pastoral Remarks
2017
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Pastoral Remarks at the beginning of the annual parish meeting for our parish. LOts of progress, lots to do. May main goal for all us us: that we become paridise.

Misc (mp3 format)

Sharing The Pain Of Others Decreases Our Pain And Brings Grace
2017
SYNOPSIS:Misc

Misc (mp3 format)

What Is Denying Onself
What Is The Taking Uo Of The Cross
2017
SYNOPSIS:Misc

Misc (mp3 format)

Why Follow Christ
Am I Following If I Still Sin
2017

WHY should you go to Divine Liturgy? There is only one reason. (mp3 format)

Orthodox Prayer
2017
SYNOPSIS:WHY should you go to Divine Liturgy? There is only one reason. 2 1/2 minutes about the purpose of liturgy and what we must do to obtain it. Excerpt from a longer homily on the paralytic: homily on the paralytic

What should we do when God's grace visits us? This happens every day! Why do we not always feel this grace? (mp3 format)

2017-03-12
SYNOPSIS:Just over 3 minutes, explaining what we MUST do when grace visits us, and why we sometimes do not feel God. Excerpt from a longer homily on the paralytic

St Panteleimon heals a woman of cancer. We therefore continue to pray. (mp3 format)

2017-03-12
SYNOPSIS:We pray a moleben to St Panteleimon weekly. Recently, a women we have prayed for was healed of cancer. What therefore should be our reaction to this grace God has given? Excerpt from a longer homily on the paralytic

How does a person addicted to pornography deny himself (herself)? (mp3 format)

Mark 8:34
2017-03-19
SYNOPSIS:How does a person addicted to pornography deny himself (herself)? In <2 minutes, practical advice about fighting this, or any other addictive sin. An excerpt from homily on Mark 8:34-9: on denying ourselves and taking up the cross.

What is denying oneself and taking up the cross. A short definition. (mp3 format)

Mark 8:34
2017-03-19
SYNOPSIS:What is denying oneself and taking up the cross. A short definition, about 2 minutes. An excerpt from homily on Mark 8:34-9: on denying ourselves and taking up the cross.

Why follow Christ? Am I following Christ & denying myself if I still sin? (mp3 format)

Mark 8:34
2017-03-19
SYNOPSIS:Practical advice about denying yourself, which is nothing less than the struggle against sin. In 2 1/2 minutes. Practical advice about denying yourself, which is nothing less than the struggle against sin. In 2 1/2 minutes. An excerpt from homily on Mark 8:34-9: on denying ourselves and taking up the cross.

Why follow rules? Why follow the Commandments? What is the New Christianity? It is opposed to the cross, and the commandments. (mp3 format)

Mark 8:34
2017-03-19
SYNOPSIS:About 4 minutes explaining why we follow the commandments and how the "new Christianity" is opposed to them. An excerpt from homily on Mark 8:34-9: on denying ourselves and taking up the cross.

Presanctified Liturgy: The second prayer of the faithful: the eyes of our understanding being enlightened thereby... (mp3 format)

Presanctified Liturgy
2017-03-24
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Second prayer of the Faithful, in Presanctified Liturgy. The purpose of the Eucharist explained. How to prepare for the Eucharist, in order to be “blameless”, as much as it is within our power. An important understanding of the line from the symbol of faith: “And in one, holy catholic and *Apostolic* church.
Text of this prayer: O Master, holy and exceeding good, we beseech Thee, who art rich in mercy, that thou wilt show compassion on us sinners, and render us worthy to receive Thine Only-begotten Son and our God, the King of Glory. For behold, His most pure Body and His life-creating Blood, entering at this present hour, are about to be set forth upon this mystical Altar, invisibly escorted by a great multitude of the Heavenly Host. Enable us to partake of them in blamelessness; that, the eyes of our understanding being enlightened thereby, we may become children of the light and of the day.

How to stop cussing, if you are serious, explained in under a minute. (mp3 format)

2017-03-26
SYNOPSIS:How to stop cussing, if you are serious, explained in under a minute. An excerpt from a homily on Ephesians 5:9-19

"Redeeming the time, because the days are evil" Our modern confusion about purpose and identity makes this task impossible (mp3 format)

Ephesians 5:16
2017-03-26
SYNOPSIS:Short exegesis (1:20) on Eph 5:16: "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil" An excerpt from a homily on Ephesians 5:9-19

Saint Nectarios kept his students obedient by doing prostrations for them. (mp3 format)

2017-03-26
SYNOPSIS:A story about St Nectarios doing prostrations for his students and their obedience, all in under a minute. An excerpt from a homily on Ephesians 5:9-19

The most important question to answer on Pascha and purpose of Great Lent - in 1 minute. (mp3 format)

Mark 10:32-40
2017-04-02
SYNOPSIS:There is one thing that must happen on Pascha in each of us. It relates to the whole purpose of Great Lent. An excerpt starting at 1:18 from a homily on St Mary of Egypt, St Nectarios and Mark 10:32-45

An explanation of professional clergy, and why the priesthood should not be a career. In under a minute. (mp3 format)

2017-04-02
SYNOPSIS:An explanation of professional clergy, and why the priesthood should not be a career. Plus a humorous anecdote about the disparities in clerical pay. In under a minute. An excerpt starting at 14:00 from a homily on St Mary of Egypt, St Nectarios and Mark 10:32-45

An explanation of the Baptism the Lord was baptised with and how we will also be baptized with it. (mp3 format)

Mark 10:38-39
2017-04-02
SYNOPSIS:An explanation of the Baptism the Lord was baptised with and how we will also be baptized with it. An excerpt starting at 6:51 from a homily on St Mary of Egypt, St Nectarios and Mark 10:32-45

Stony Insensibility:What is is, and how to fight it, in 1 1/2 minutes. (mp3 format)

Stony Insensibility
Mark 10:32-37
2017-04-03
SYNOPSIS:The sin of stony insensibility, illustrated by the question of James and John to Jesus, just after He was trying to tell them about his upcoming Great Passion. We pray against this sin in our evening prayers. We explain the sin, and how to fight against it. An excerpt starting at 4:37 from a homily on St Mary of Egypt, St Nectarios and Mark 10:32-45

What not to say in confession! In 52 seconds. We are not good, but trying to be good, and God will help us to be good. (mp3 format)

Confession
2017-04-03
SYNOPSIS:What not to say in confession! In 52 seconds. An excerpt starting at 27:30 from a homily on St Mary of Egypt, St Nectarios and Mark 10:32-45

Reminiscences on the 37th anniversary of my baptism (April 5, 1980) (mp3 format)

2017-04-05

What is the most important day of the year for Orthodox Christians? It is NOT Pascha! (mp3 format)

2017-04-16
SYNOPSIS:In under a minute. An excerpt from a homily during Agape Vespers, on the Sunday of Pascha, which discussed the Gospel about the doubting of Thomas.

What is the most important thing parents must provide their children? (mp3 format)

2017-11-11
COMMENT:Length:0:28 This is an excerpt from the following homily: "Faith and works explained in the Orthodox way. Read and UNDERSTAND the other parts of the passage!"

The Relationship between faith and works, and what are works? (mp3 format)

Ephesians 2:8-9
2017-11-12
SYNOPSIS:In under a minute and a half, a simple explanation of the Relationship between faith and works, and also - what are works?
COMMENT:Length:1:29 This is an excerpt from the following homily: "Faith and works explained in the Orthodox way. Read and UNDERSTAND the other parts of the passage!"

What is grace? (mp3 format)

What Is Grace
2017-11-12
SYNOPSIS:In under 3 minutes, a simple definition of "grace". This is NOT the typical definition given in non-Orthodox churches!
COMMENT:Length:2:52 This is an excerpt from the following homily: "Faith and works explained in the Orthodox way. Read and UNDERSTAND the other parts of the passage!"

Why do we read scripture? (mp3 format)

2017-11-12
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read scripture? It is very simple, so simple, we can explain this matter in 5 seconds.
COMMENT:Length:0:05 This is an excerpt from the following homily: "Faith and works explained in the Orthodox way. Read and UNDERSTAND the other parts of the passage!"

Knowing the true nature of things, and therefore, having salvation with thanksgiving. (mp3 format)

Thanskgiving Day
Luke 13:1-9 : Luke 17:11-19
2017-11-23
SYNOPSIS:Salvation is to know the true nature of things, and naturally, we would always be giving thanks to God in this condition. A spiritual exegesis of two texts read during liturgy on Thanksgiving, 2017:Luke 13:1-9 & Luke 17:11-19 (The Galileans whose blood was mixed with their sacrifices & the tower of Siloam, and the healing of the ten lepers)

Using the energy in grief. (Adobe PDF format)

St Herman Youth Conference, Kansas
2017-12-27
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:A talk given at the annual St Herman Youth Conference. Grief and mourning are a normal and necessary part of a life that leads to salvation. We talk about kinds of grief, and the energy in grief, and how to use it. This is an essential life skill.

"Ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (mp3 format)

John 8:31-38
2018-07-14
SYNOPSIS:Three truths that should resonate in the soul (and cause practical changes in the way we live!) gleaned from a prayerful, and repetative reading of a in the Gospel of John, Chapter 8. What is freedom and how do we become free? What is slavery? How does one become a slave?

Be aggressive! Look for opportunities! Make room! (mp3 format)

John 8:37
2018-07-22
SYNOPSIS:There is no Christian life without aggression and looking for opportunities. We base this on the spirit of the monastic life which every Christian should understand, and on John 8:37 for the Lord tells the Jews who do not believe in Him that they have no room in their heart for him. We discuss a little bit about the purpose of the monastic life and how it should inform the conduct of everyone in the church, and also examples of salvific aggressiveness and looking for opportunities. This homily is adapted from one given on the first anniversary of the death of my son +Daniel (06-11-2017).

A feeling that is good that you must fight to keep feeling when praying the Jesus prayer. (mp3 format)

Jesus Prayer
2018-08-26
SYNOPSIS:Just 51 seconds, describing a feeling that is common during the Jesus prayer which we must fight to keep feeling. The world h that you’re going to stay late ates to feel this way but Christians know that the feeling is true and it brings power to us. Extracted from this homily: "Are you come to play Jesus with the lepers in your head?"

"Are you come to play Jesus with the lepers in your head?" (mp3 format)

Psalm 63:6
2018-08-27
SYNOPSIS:"Are you come to play Jesus with the lepers in your head?" This lyric from a secular song has much spiritual application. All of us have lepers, and all of us "play Jesus" with them. We talk about what "playing Jesus" means and how to stop playing and constructively seek healing from Jesus through the Jesus prayer the Psalter and struggling in the Christian life

What gives anyone the authority to tell Joel Osteen to shut up? (mp3 format)

What Gives Anyone The Authority To Tell Joel Osteen To Shut Up
2018-09-13
SYNOPSIS:This sounds like a funny question or perhaps even a little bit unkind to some, but Joel Olsteen says things that not true Christian doctrine, and is a valid and important question related to the church and truth. Who can tell him that his doctrine is not Christian? Only those with experience. In the Orthodox Church our only aim in life is to experience God. God can only be experienced in spirit and in truth and only the church knows and experiences this truth. The church, and those who have become enlightened have the authority to tell Joel Olsteen to "shut up". This short comment was the last thing said before a presentation on "One God in Trinity", one of our catechetical lectures and letters – https://www.orthodox.net//catechism/catechism_001_2018+one-god-in-trinity.mp3

Misc (mp3 format)

Here Am I
1 Samuel 3-1010
2019

The first secret prayer said by the priest during the Six Psalms (mp3 format)

Secret Prayers At The 6 Psalms
Prayer 01
2019
SYNOPSIS:The first duty of a priest is prayer for his flock.

Misc (mp3 format)

The Work Of God That Ye Believe On Him Whom He Hath Sent
John 6-29
2019

We Will Glorify God for Eternity. A sermon by Fr. Andrey Lemeshonok at St Elisabeth Convent (Adobe PDF format)

Clean Wednesday, Great Lent
2019-02-13
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A sermon by Fr. Andrey Lemeshonok after the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts at St Elisabeth Convent in Minsk, Belaus. Filmed on the 13th of March 2019, Wednesday of the first week of the Great Lent. This short sermon speaks of the privilege we have to worship God and the purpose of Lenten services and fasting, and includes the story that everyone should read about a negligent monk who, beyond all expectation, was saved. Video https://youtu.be/4U3JEkjO4IA (In Russian, with English Subtitles)

We Will Glorify God for Eternity. A sermon by Fr. Andrey Lemeshonok at St Elisabeth Convent (Adobe PDF format)

Misc (Adobe PDF format)

We Will Glorify God For Eternity
Fr Andrey Lemeshonok 3
2019-02-13
Also in Format: Word DOC

Matins Canon, Tone 4. Theology saves us if we understand it and apply it. (mp3 format)

2019-07-20
SYNOPSIS:We look at 4 hymns from the Sunday Matins Canon, Tone 4. Everyone should read these canons and hear them in the services. When we bring the dogmatic theology taught in the services, into our heart, we are helped to change. Some of the things discussed:
The goal of various services.
Why do we pray in a highly theological way?
Why do we believe the Theotokos is ever-virgin? It is a pretty obvious answer!

Why is abortion a sin and harmful to women? (mp3 format)

Abortion
1 Corinthians 5:9-6:11
2019-07-29
SYNOPSIS:Explanation about the harm abortion causes to the woman and all involved in it. This an excerpt from an exegesis of one of the many moral exhortations of the Apostle Paul (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-mon-07_2019+morality-after-baptism+abortion-harms-women_1cor5-9-6-11.mp3). It applies very well to the modern issue of abortion.

What is faith? Why does it start with Christ? 1:43 (mp3 format)

2019-08-04
SYNOPSIS:A short summary (length 1:43) of what faith is and why it must start with Christ, which contains a summary of the reason for the incarnation, its effect, and our proper response to it. An excerpt from a longer homily on Romans 15:1-7,(7th Sunday after Pentecost), soon to be published.

The Litany of Supplication: Explanation, and how to use it as an example of how to pray. (mp3 format)

2019-08-10
SYNOPSIS:A little bit about the purpose of Vespers, and the necessity for repetition in prayer, and then an explanation of the petitions of the Litany of Supplication (which is prayed in Vespers, Matins and Divine Liturgy, with slight variations).

Why is the Theotokos called "Mediatrix"? (mp3 format)

2019-08-29
SYNOPSIS:A simple, short (1:09) explanation of a word that is controversial and even despised among those who are not Orthodox - mediatrix. It is really very simple, and is because of the incarnation.

"Lord have mercy" brought me to the Orthodox Church. (mp3 format)

2019-08-31
SYNOPSIS:Just about 2 minutes, explaining why we say "Lord have mercy" so often in our prayers, and the Christian understanding of mercy. This prayer and the understanding behind it was the reason I became an Orthodox Christian. (An excerpt from a longer homily on the small Ectenia: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/misc_2019+small-ectenia+important-things-are-repeated.mp3)

The Small Ectenia, mercy, grace, the saints, and repetition. (mp3 format)

2019-08-31
SYNOPSIS:Why do we repeat things in our prayers? We analyze the Small Ectenia, and in this small set of 3 petitions, encounter the Christian understanding of grace, mercy, and the Saints.

How does a man lay down his life for his friends? (mp3 format)

How Does A Man Lay Down His Life For His Friends
John 15:13 1 John 3:16
2019-09-27
SYNOPSIS:A short excerpt (length:0:23) from a longer homily given on the Exaltation of the Holy Cross: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/exaltation_2019+fear-of-death-vs-preaching-of-the-cross_1cor1-18-24.mp3

The preaching of the cross is foolishness to those who fear death. (mp3 format)

Preaching Of The Cross Is Foolishness To Those Who Fear Death
1 Corinthians 1:18
2019-09-27
SYNOPSIS:The reason why people reject the preaching of the cross is fear of death. We describe the Christian understanding of this condition and why it leads to sin and rejection of the way of the cross. A short excerpt (length:2:40) from a longer homily given on the Exaltation of the Holy Cross:https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/exaltation_2019+fear-of-death-vs-preaching-of-the-cross_1cor1-18-24.mp3

Does your religion worship Jesus, or a made-up Jesus? (Word DOC format)

John 6:30
2019-11-17
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Contemporary pseudo-Christianity tries to remake Jesus Christ into the person they want Him to be. A short commentary (<1 minute) on John 6:30 (when the Jews asked Jesus: "What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee?"), in the context of a homily about Who Jesus is and what His words meant in John Chapter 6. Excerpt from the homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/misc_2019+holy-communion-in-john-6.mp3

The DOGMA of the Holy Eucharist is clearly explained in the Sixth Chapter of John. (mp3 format)

John 6
2019-11-17
SYNOPSIS:Does the Bible teach about Holy Communion? We examine the clear teaching in John Chapter 6. We talk about signs, and symbols, and controversy about the Holy Eucharist, which is directly addressed by Jesus, the progression that must be present in the spiritual life, and what to do about the mundane, and how to work the works of God. Everything is important. This homily could serve as one of the essential topics that must be understood in any catechesis for inquirers into the Orthodox Christian Church.

Is Jesus speaking symbolically or literally about His flesh in John, Chapter 6? Yes. (Word DOC format)

John 6:51-54
2019-11-17
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:About 2.5 minutes. Did Jesus speak symbolically about his flesh in John 6? For those who rely on scripture only for proof, the answer is in His answer to the Jews when it became obvious that many were disputing Him, and disbelieving that He could give His flesh to eat. In John 6, the Lord brings His people along a progression, from symbolic to more explicit language, and when they "connected the dots" and understood that He was speaking about giving His actual flesh to eat, He responded to the controversy in clear, irrefutable language. The biblical evidence is clear (and of course, the consistent practice and belief of the church for over 2000 years believes this language). The Lord at first spoke symbolically, then explicitly, in order to address a dispute that started with some of the Jews that heard Him, and continues to this day. John 6:51-54

Misc (mp3 format)

The World And Christians Think Differently About Sorrow.info
2020

Misc (mp3 format)

What Is Our Greatest Problem
2020

A Christian MUST be zealous for good works. (mp3 format)

Titus 2:11-14
2020-01-19
SYNOPSIS:18 seconds. If you are not zealous for good works, you are NOT a Christian. From a longer homily on Theophany on Titus 2:11-14, beginning at about 11:05(https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/theophany-03_2019+our-baptism-and-our-vision_titus2-11-14-3-4-7.mp3)

What does "One baptism for the remission of sins" mean? (mp3 format)

Titus 3:5
2020-01-19
SYNOPSIS:36 seconds long. What does "One baptism for the remission of sins" mean? It is more than just forgiveness of sins. From a longer homily on Theophany on Titus 2:11-14, beginning at about 12:28 (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/theophany-03_2019+our-baptism-and-our-vision_titus2-11-14-3-4-7.mp3)

What is the most important characteristic in our soul to defeat temptation? (mp3 format)

2020-01-19
SYNOPSIS:5:39 What is the most important characteristic in our soul to defeat temptation? We speak perhaps a little hyperbolically, because without love we are nothing, but there is no love, or virtue, in the midst of temptation without vision. Who we are, and why we are must resonate in our hearts, and then we will love, and have all the virtues, and be victorious. From a longer homily on Theophany on baptism, and Titus 2:11-14, beginning at about 13:13 (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/theophany-03_2019+our-baptism-and-our-vision_titus2-11-14-3-4-7.mp3)

Repentance is not negative! It is the way of LIFE! (mp3 format)

2020-02-16
SYNOPSIS:Length:1:05 Excerpt from a Homily on the Parable of the Prodigal Son, beginning at about 2:34. Many think abot repentrance as something negative and hard, and onerous. It is not! It is the way to life, happiness, peace. It is just seeing things as they are, and then God helps us in everything. Full homily at https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/glsunb4-03_2020+prodigal-son+process-of-repentance_luke15-11-32.mp3

Why do Lenten services contain hymns about the Transfiguration and Pentecost? (Word DOC format)

2020-03-23
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:The Great Lenten daily services of Typica and the Third Hour contain the Kontakion of the Feast of the Transfiguration, and the Troparion of the Feast of Pentecost, respectively. Why is this? It is for glorious reason. It is apropos that we think of these feasts during Great Lent because great Lent is preparing us for the things promised in them. We especially speak of the theological and practical, day-to-day significance of the Transfiguration, and what the reaction of a Christian to the novel coronavirus should be.

We must do what we *can* do! An example from the life of St Mary of Egypt. (mp3 format)

2020-04-04
SYNOPSIS:In under a minute, an important spiritual principle that a struggling Christian applies to his life a hundred times a day, illustrated in the life of St Mary of Egypt: "You must do what you *can* do, so God will help you to do what you cannot do". ”. An excerpt from https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-05_2020+mary-of-egypt+holy-communion-and-3-virtues.mp3

A solution of the heart for our racial problems. Poverty of spirit. There is no "other". (Adobe PDF format)

2020-06-21
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:This is an edited 1:30 excerpt about poverty of spirit from a longer sermon that, among other things, talked about how to apply the Beatitudes to the current problems we are having with racial unrest in our country. It occurs at approximately 15:14 in the homily: "The Saints achieved profound peace in an unpeaceful world" - https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-02_2020+saints-of-russia+poverty-of-spirit-and-mourning_mat4-25-5-12.mp3

A prisoner explains "Arise and Walk" (mp3 format)

Matthew 9:6
2020-07-19
SYNOPSIS:This is two excerpts from homily about the Healing of the Paralytic. Christianity is much more than just fighting sin. It is to obtain to the measure and stature of Jesus Christ. In this section we read from a letter written by a prisoner. The entire homily is here: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2020+christianity-is-more-than-fighting-sin_matthew91-8.mp3

Can Jesus tell EVERYONE to "Be of Good cheer"? (mp3 format)

Matthew 9:2
2020-07-19
SYNOPSIS:An excerpt from homily about the healing of the paralytic. Can Jesus tell EVERYONE to "Be of Good cheer"? The entire homily is here: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2020+christianity-is-more-than-fighting-sin_matthew91-8.mp3

Is same-sex attraction of sin? Is depression a sin? (mp3 format)

Matthew 9:2 Ephesians 4:13
2020-07-19
SYNOPSIS:An excerpt from homily about the healing of the paralytic. Is same-sex attraction of sin? Is depression a sin? What does the Scripture say? We talk about the command of Jesus to the paralytic, and also the description of our goal as Christians by St Paul. The entire homily is here: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2020+christianity-is-more-than-fighting-sin_matthew91-8.mp3

What is the ministry of a priest? (mp3 format)

Matthew 9:1-8
2020-07-19
SYNOPSIS:What is the ministry of a priest? My favorite answer to that question. An excerpt from homily about the healing of the paralytic. The entire homily is here: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2020+christianity-is-more-than-fighting-sin_matthew91-8.mp3

Temptation vs sin. When is homosexuality sin? How to battle any impurity. (Word DOC format)

2020-07-24
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:This article is an addendum, which I was requested to record clarify following question about my homily given July 19, 2020, entitled: “Healing of the Paralytic - a parable that reveals our purpose and destiny” (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2020+christianity-is-more-than-fighting-sin_matthew91-8.mp3_. The question was: "In your most recent podcast episode, you argue that it's a sin to be attracted to someone of the same sex. Would you mind recording an addendum explaining exactly what you mean by this and how one repents of it, including how having homosexual thoughts or feelings is different from being tempted. Unless I’m mistaken, I don’t believe it’s a sin to be tempted, but rather it’s inviting in and entertaining tempting thoughts that is the sin. I think some might be confused by your statement."

He himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire (mp3 format)

1 Corinthians 9:15
2020-08-09
SYNOPSIS:In 1:13, Explanation of the oft-misunderstood verse: "If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire." Starting at about 9:10 of a longer homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-09_2020+all-need-encouragement+co-laborers-and-temples_1cor39-17.mp3

Scripture is the antidote for the poison in the world. (mp3 format)

2020-08-09
SYNOPSIS:In 1:25, Why we should read the scriptures, and encouragement to overcome the resistance to reading them to those starting to read them in earnest. An excerpt from a longer homily, https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-09_2020+all-need-encouragement+co-laborers-and-temples_1cor39-17.mp3, beginning at approx 0:58

Why did I become a priest? Two simple, all-consuming reasons. (mp3 format)

2020-08-09
SYNOPSIS:In 1:32, The two main reasons why I became a priest: eternal things, and anger. Even if not a priest, this all Christians. Starting just after 13:04 of a longer homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-09_2020+all-need-encouragement+co-laborers-and-temples_1cor39-17.mp3

We have an unshakable identity, we know the truth and how to live according to it, and we aint "woke"! (mp3 format)

2020-08-16
SYNOPSIS:Length: about 2:16 We must have an identity. In our age of identity confusion all priests must be prophets, and teach that society’s way of determining truth is the road to hell. We aint woke; we know who we are and what our purpose is, and what true freedom is and how to attain it. An excerpt, beginning at about 1:30 from a longer homily” https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/saints-08-01_2020+maccabean-martyrs.mp3

How to prepare for the upcoming tsunami of persecution. (mp3 format)

2 Maccabees 6:6
2020-08-16
SYNOPSIS:Length:3:04 In 2 Maccabees, a persecution of the martyrs began because it became illegal to even be a Jew. There are parallels to our time. They will teach us how to prepare for the upcoming tsunami of persecution. It is what we do day-to-day, now, that will save us. An excerpt, beginning at about 9:24 from a longer homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/saints-08-01_2020+maccabean-martyrs.mp3

Why do we do good works and why are they important? (mp3 format)

2020-08-23
SYNOPSIS:Why do we do good works and why are they important? The answer is very simple, so simple that both questions can be answered in 22 seconds. An excerpt, beginning at about 8:18, from a longer homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-11_2020+parable-unmerciful-debtor+our-heart-compels-us_mat18-23-35.mp3

What is possible or impossible for a Christian? (mp3 format)

Matthew 19:26
2020-08-30
SYNOPSIS:Length 1:28 Short commentary on the Lords teaching to His disciples:"With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible" (Matt 19:26), pointing out how the world and Christians differ very much about this word. Application to the prayer rule, and anything else difficult in life. An excerpt, starting at 11:18, from a longer homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-12_2020+rich-young-ruler+what-is-good-why-try-to-be-good_matthew19-16-26.mp3

Why do good? Because God is Who He is. (mp3 format)

2020-08-30
SYNOPSIS:Length 3:00 Why should we do good things? It’s really very simple. It is because God is Who He is. This is very natural and can be illustrated from something that I do with toy censers with my toddler grandsons every week. This is a simple but the most powerful reason why Christians should be trying to follow the commandments and do good works. Commentary on the question of the rich young ruler, "What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" (Matt 19:16) An excerpt, starting at 6:22,from a longer homily: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-12_2020+rich-young-ruler+what-is-good-why-try-to-be-good_matthew19-16-26.mp3

Christianity is not legalism; it is a relationship because of love. (mp3 format)

2020-09-13
SYNOPSIS:Length 1:00 We explain that Christianity is not legalism; it is all because of love. Starring Noah. An excerpt , starting at 1:00 from: " The Earnest of the Holy Spirit is only in those who wear the wedding garment.", https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-14_2020+earnest-of-the-spirit-with-wedding-garment_2cor1-21mat22-1-14.mp3

Misc (mp3 format)

2020-09-13
SYNOPSIS:Length 1:00 How to understand kingdom of heaven parables, and the reality that the kingdom of Heaven is not yet is now within us. An excerpt , starting at about 2:23 from: " The Earnest of the Holy Spirit is only in those who wear the wedding garment.", https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-14_2020+earnest-of-the-spirit-with-wedding-garment_2cor1-21mat22-1-14.mp3

What is the "Earnest of the Holy Spirit" and how is it strengthened, and how can it be lost? (mp3 format)

2020-09-13
SYNOPSIS:Length 1:39 What is the Earnest of the Holy Spirit? It is something that we will increasingly understand by experience, if we struggle to wear the wedding garment. An excerpt , starting at about 10:06 from: " The Earnest of the Holy Spirit is only in those who wear the wedding garment.",

Why is it natural for a Christian to sow bountifully and abound to every good work? (mp3 format)

2020-10-11
SYNOPSIS:Len:1:33 The love of the mother for her infant teaches us why we struggle, why we do good works, why we sow bountifully and try to abound to every good work. It is always the same reason, and it is very simple. An excerpt, starting at about 8:14, in the sermon: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-17_2020+sow-bountifully-abound-to-every-good-work_2cor9-6-11.mp3

Most youth despise Christianity. What should we do? (RTF format)

Luke 21:28-33
2020-12-24
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Our society has a warped view of Christianity, which most or at least many hate. What are we to do? The Gospel tells us today. There is no shortcut. If we have the sure conviction that our redemption is drawing near (the Kingdom of God is within us), we will live and pray with intensity, and the words we pray will not pass away.

Misc (mp3 format)

I Have Begotten You Through The Gospel
Be Ye Followers Of Me
2021

Misc (mp3 format)

Save O God
Every Christian Soul Afflicted And Tormented
2021

Misc (mp3 format)

The Spirit Of The Lord Is Upon Me
Luke 4-18
2021

Misc (mp3 format)

When Did Our Salvation Begin
Annunciation
2021

Misc (mp3 format)

Why Do We Not Feel Good Even Though We Fast And Pray
2021

Great Lent is a time to correct some of our "subjective error". (mp3 format)

Subjective Error
2021-03-06
SYNOPSIS:Applying a quote by Linus Pauling to the Christian way of Life. It applies to more than just the golden rule:"Do unto others 20% better than you would expect them to do unto you, to correct for subjective error".

How to live the Triumph of Orthodoxy in the heart (mp3 format)

How To Live The Triumph Of Orthodoxy In The Heart
2021-03-21
SYNOPSIS:Len 2:29 Explanation about the historical "Triumph of Orthodoxy", the primary theological teaching of icons, and the spiritual, individual "Triumph of Orthodoxy", despite the chaotic and sinful politics (secular and in the church!) of our day. An excerpt from a sermon given 2021: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-01_2021+triumph-of-orthodoxy-is-lived-in-the-heart.mp3

"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us." Which kind of patience? (mp3 format)

Hebrews 12:1
2021-03-21
SYNOPSIS:Len 1:07 In the epistle read on the Sunday of orthodoxy St. Paul exhorts us to ":Let us run with patience the race that is set before us." We describe this patience. It is not necessarily the same patience as one would have in encountering heavy traffic! An excerpt from a sermon given 2021: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-01_2021+triumph-of-orthodoxy-is-lived-in-the-heart.mp3

What is the main lesson from the Gospel of John? (mp3 format)

2021-03-21
SYNOPSIS:Len 52 seconds The Gospel of St. John is significantly different than the other Gospels because of the main teaching in it. An excerpt from a sermon given 2021: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-01_2021+triumph-of-orthodoxy-is-lived-in-the-heart.mp3

The Secret to the Triumph of Orthodox (in the heart): Come and see. (mp3 format)

T
John 1:46
2021-03-21
SYNOPSIS:Len: 1:55 The encounter between Jesus and Nathaniel, in the Gospel of John, is read on the Sunday of orthodoxy. After Nathaniel asked a question about Jesus, Philip answered: “Come and see”. In a mystical way this describes how the Triumph of Orthodoxy occurs in the human heart. An excerpt from a sermon given 2021: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-01_2021+triumph-of-orthodoxy-is-lived-in-the-heart.mp3

"Thou shalt see greater things than these." What are the greater things? (mp3 format)

John 1:50
2021-03-21
SYNOPSIS:Len 1:00 An excerpt from a sermon given 2021: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-01_2021+triumph-of-orthodoxy-is-lived-in-the-heart.mp3

We are not human yet! (mp3 format)

2021-03-21
SYNOPSIS:Len:54 seconds Jesus Christ is the image of the perfect human being. We are not completely human, but we are becoming more human! An excerpt from a sermon given 2021: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-01_2021+triumph-of-orthodoxy-is-lived-in-the-heart.mp3

The Purpose of Great Lent is to get stronger and to have more energy - to experience God's energies! (mp3 format)

Purpose Of Great Lent
Getting Stronger Having More Energy
2021-03-29
SYNOPSIS:Length:1:52 Excerpt (starting at 0:00) from the sermon: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-02_2021+gregory-palamas.mp3

How to achieve the prayer of the heart – by asceticism! (mp3 format)

The Prayer Of The Heart And Asceticism
2021-03-29
SYNOPSIS:Length:1:26 We define asceticism. Only by asceticism may we attain the prayer of the heart, which is the purpose of our life, whether we achieve it in this life or the next. Excerpt (starting at 6:37) from the sermon: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/gl-sun-02_2021+gregory-palamas.mp3

Why read the lives of Saints? To be inspired to do the things we *can* do. (mp3 format)

2021-04-04
SYNOPSIS:Length:59 seconds. Read the lives of saints! Do not be discouraged! If we read them as explained in this short excerpt (at about 4:02) from a homily on the 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (The Exaltation of the Cross), we will definitely get better.

Joseph the All-Comely and his brothers. A crafty man thinks everyone is crafty. (mp3 format)

2021-04-23
SYNOPSIS:Len 5:25 A meditation about why Patriarch Joseph wept when his brothers came to him, afraid he might hurt him after the mourning time for their father Jacob had ended. "And Joseph wept while they were speaking to him." (from Gen 49:33 - 50:26, read Friday in the Sixth Week of Great Lent, at Vespers.
"O Lord, deliver my soul from unrighteous lips and from a crafty tongue. What shall be given unto thee and what shall be added unto thee for thy crafty tongue?" (Psalm 119:2-3, read during the Presanctified liturgy)
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/gCEjkJthRds

Why should we do prostrations? (mp3 format)

2021-07-25
SYNOPSIS:In under a minute, it is quite easy to explain why every Orthodox Christians should be doing prostrations (or whatever they are capable of doing) in their daily prayer. An Excerpt from the Homily: Always *be* answering the question! What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-05_2021+always-be-answering-the-question+gergesenes.mp3)

Do you have enough grace to help someone, even though your life is a mess? (mp3 format)

Romans 12:6
2021-08-01
SYNOPSIS:A very short commentary (less than 1 minute) on the exhortation of St Paul to us which begins: "Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us…" Do we have enough grace to help someone even though we are messing up all the time? Paul think so and you should too. At the end of the short clip a story is referred to you can find it here and it’s worth listening to. Both of these excerpts are from a Sunday homily that you can find here: https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2021+what-are-we-going-to-do_romans12-6-14.mp(https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2021+what-are-we-going-to-do_romans12-6-14.mp3)3

You must have formal prayer in order to have effective informal prayer. (mp3 format)

Romans 12:12
2021-08-01
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on St. Paul’s exhortation, he tells us that we must be: “continuing instant in prayer.” This implies that we should pray about everything however if we do not pray in a formal way we will not be able to pray about everything and informal way. Romans 12:12 An excerpt from a longer homily, beginning at about 19:40: (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2021+what-are-we-going-to-do_romans12-6-14.mp3)

How giving someone someone a beer can be giving with simplicity. (mp3 format)

Romans 12:8
2021-08-01
SYNOPSIS:A story which illustrates what “giving with simplicity” is. Sometimes it’s just drinking a beer with somebody. Commentary on: “He that giveth, let him do it with simplicity” (Romans 12:8) An excerpt from a longer homily, beginning at 8:34: (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2021+what-are-we-going-to-do_romans12-6-14.mp3)

Who was a prophet in a popular song, which teaches us WHAT TO DO today, as we face serious challenges in our life? (mp3 format)

2021-08-01
SYNOPSIS:This is an excerpt from a sermon about what we should do in our days (https://www.orthodox.net//sermons/pen-sun-06_2021+what-are-we-going-to-do_romans12-6-14.mp3), and this is the short answer (2 minutes, pretty good for an Irishman!), which is an interpretation of the popular song from 40 years ago. It’s really very simple. It’s always been simple and always will be simple.

Remembering the past, being in the present, pondering the future: The Vespers Ectenia "Let us complete our evening prayer…"” (mp3 format)

2021-09-04
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of last Vespers Ectenia which begins: "Let us complete our evening prayer unto the Lord." These prayers are basically in the past, and the present and in eternity, all at once. The rest of the petitions that we talk about are:
"Help us, save us, have mercy on us, and keep us, O God, by Thy grace."
"That the whole evening may be perfect, holy, peaceful, and sinless, let us ask of the Lord."
"An angel of peace, a faithful guide, a guardian of our souls and bodies, let us ask of the Lord."
"Pardon and remission of our sins and offenses, let us ask the Lord."
"Things good and profitable for our souls and bodies, and peace for the world, let us ask of the Lord."
"That we may complete the remaining time of our life in peace and repentance let us ask of the Lord."
"A Christian ending to our life, painless, blameless, peaceful; and a good defense before the dread Judgment Seat of Christ, let us ask."
Also on YouTube:https://youtu.be/9-nxIuuYP2s

What is the fear of God and how do we get it? (mp3 format)

2021-09-12
SYNOPSIS:At the beginning of one of our catechesis classes (https://www.orthodox.net//catechism/catechism_2021+fear-of-god-purpose-divine-liturgy+matthew1-2.mp3

+Matthew, Holiness, the delusional thinking of the West, Why pray for the dead, What happens when we pray for a righteous person who has reposed? (mp3 format)

2021-10-03
SYNOPSIS:From a Catechism session. We talk about the recent repose of Matthew Kaznica, his personal holiness, the delusional thinking of the West, which thinks that a person who acts strangely or is not intelligent in the typical ways is not living a robust spiritual life, why we pray for the dead, and what happens when we pray for a righteous person who has reposed, and why I pray for the servant of God +Matthew. Memory Eternal!

Misc (Word DOC format)

A Hidden Life
2021-10-29

Misc (Word DOC format)

Sunrises And Prison Ministry
2021-10-30

Living Water:Commentary on Orthodox Services

Living Water (mp3 format)

Dragging The Net Of The Faith In The Salty Sea Of The Passions
Octoechos-Tone-4-Wednesday-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-09-14

Living Water (mp3 format)

Harrowing Of Hell
Delivered From Deception By His Compassions
Octoechos-Tone-5-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-09-17

Living Water (mp3 format)

That The Whole Evening May Be Perfect Holy Peaceful And Sinless Let Us Ask Of The Lord
2011-10-19

Living Water (mp3 format)

Direct Our Prayer As Incense Before Thee
Vespers-Prayer-Of-The-Entry
2011-11-06

Living Water (mp3 format)

Free Among The Dead
Octoechos-Tone-6-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-11-19

Living Water (mp3 format)

That We May Be Delivered From All Tribulation Wrath And Necessity Let Us Pray To The Lord
Great-Ectenia
2014-11-13

The Psalter

The Psalter (HTML format)

Blessed Are The Blameless In The Way Who Walk In The Law Of The Lord
Psalm 118-01
2012-10-27
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

Blessed are they that search out His testimonies, with their whole heart shall they seek after Him. (Word DOC format)

Psalm 118:02
2012-11-03
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Psalm 118:02

The Psalter (Word DOC format)

For They That Work Iniquity Have Not Walked In His Ways
Psalm 118-03
2012-11-10
Also in Format: mp3

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Thou Hast Enjoined Thy Commandments That We Should Keep Them Most Diligently
Psalm 118-04
2012-11-17

The Psalter (Word DOC format)

Thou Hast Enjoined Thy Commandments That We Should Keep Them Most Diligently
Psalm 118-04
2012-11-17

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Would That My Ways Were Directed To Keep Thy Statutes
Psalm 118-05
2012-11-24

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Then Shall I Not Be Ashamed When I Look On All Thy Commandments
Psalm 118-06
2012-12-02

The Psalter (mp3 format)

I Will Confess Thee With Uprightness Of Heart When I Have Learned The Judgments Of Thy Righteousness
Psalm 118-07
2012-12-02

The Psalter (mp3 format)

I Will Keep Thy Statutes Do Not Utterly Forsake Me
Psalm 118-08
2012-12-15

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Wherewithal Shall A Young Man Correct His Way By Keeping Thy Words
Psalm 118-09
2012-12-29

The Psalter (mp3 format)

With My Whole Heart Have I Sought After Thee Cast Me Not Away From Thy Commandments
Psalm 118-10
2013-01-27

The Psalter (mp3 format)

In My Heart Have I Hid Thy Sayings That I Might Not Sin Against Thee
Psalm 118-11
2013-02-02

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Blessed Art Thou O Lord Teach Me Thy Statutes
Psalm 118-12
2013-02-09

The Psalter (mp3 format)

13 With My Lips Have I Declared All The Judgments Of Thy Mouth
Psalm 118-13
2013-02-16

The Psalter (mp3 format)

In The Way Of Thy Testimonies Have I Found Delight As Much As In All Riches
Psalm 118-14
2013-03-16

The Psalter (mp3 format)

On Thy Commandments Will I Ponder And I Will Understand Thy Ways
Psalm 118-15
2013-03-30

The Psalter (mp3 format)

On Thy Statutes Will I Meditate I Will Not Forget Thy Words
Psalm 118-16
2014-11-01

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Give Reward Unto Thy Servant Quicken Me And I Will Keep Thy Words
Psalm 118-17
2014-11-08

The Psalter (mp3 format)

O Unveil Mine Eyes And I Shall Perceive Wondrous Things Out Of Thy Law
Psalm 118-18
2014-11-22

The Psalter (mp3 format)

I Am A Sojourner On The Earth Hide Not From Me Thy Commandments
Psalm 118-19
2014-11-29

The Psalter (mp3 format)

My Soul Hath Longed To Desire Thy Judgments At All Times
Psalm 118-20
2014-12-06

The Psalter (mp3 format)

Thou Hast Rebuked The Proud Cursed Are They That Decline From Thy Commandments
Psalm 118-21
2014-12-13

"Rendering the proud their due". The way God does this is different than man. (mp3 format)

Psalm 93:1-2,13
2020-01-04
SYNOPSIS:The weekend before the celebration of the Nativity of the Savior, of course, I am thinking very much about the Incarnation. God does things differently than us. He reacts to sin and pride and all the rest differently than we do. Today, I read a psalm that had the phrase "render the proud their due". We have a terrible phrase, that says "I hope he gets what’s coming to him". God also wants us to get what’s coming to us, according to His desire. Therefore, Jesus became the God-man, to render the proud their due, that is that we would learn to be humble said we can become perfect and know Him. The psalm later mentions how He does this. Therefore, although it might not appear to be, this Psalm in a spiritual way is about the Incarnation.
SYNOPSIS:The Psalter

Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas

The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)

Part 01
2012-11-26
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.

The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)

Part 02
2012-11-27
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.

The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)

The Holy Orthodox Faith Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender
Part 03
2012-11-28
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.

Holy Prophet and God Seer Moses, Part 1 From his birth to the crossing of the Red Sea by Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas (mp3 format)

2013-03-11

Holy Prophet and God Seer Moses, Part 2 From his birth to the crossing of the Red Sea by Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas (mp3 format)

2013-03-12

Holy Prophet and God Seer Moses, Part 3 From his birth to the crossing of the Red Sea by Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas (mp3 format)

2013-03-13

Holy Prophet and God Seer Moses, Part 4 From the Red Sea to the Promised Land by Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas (mp3 format)

2014-02-23

Holy Prophet and God Seer Moses, Part 5 From the Red Sea to the Promised Land by Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas (mp3 format)

2014-02-24

Holy Prophet and God Seer Moses, Part 6 From the Red Sea to the Promised Land by Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas (mp3 format)

2014-02-25

The Annunciation Part 1. Patristic analysis of the meaning of the feast and the character of the Mother of God. (mp3 format)

The Annunciation Part 01
2017-05-27

The Annunciation Part 2. Patristic analysis of the Gospels of the Feast. (mp3 format)

The Annunciation Part 02
Luke 1:24-38 Luke 1:39-49,56
2017-05-27
SYNOPSIS:Papa Demetrios Carellas spoke for the 4th time at our parish, with 2 talks about the Annunciation. Talk 2 was a penetrating Patristic analysis of the Gospels read in the feast, with plenty of sidebars!

St Herman Youth Conference

St Herman Youth Conference (mp3 format)

Prison Ministry Is Like Marriage
Priest Seraphim
2015

St Herman Youth Conference (Adobe PDF format)

Prison Ministry Is Like Marriage
Priest Seraphim Notes
2015
Also in Format: Word DOC

St Herman Youth Conference (Powerpoint Presentation format)

Sanctifying The Home
Mat Elizaveta
2015
Also in Format: mp3

St Herman Youth Conference (Adobe PDF format)

Using The Energy In Grief
St Herman Youth Conference
2017
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3

The Golden Path: What it is to be a woman in our Modern Age. (mp3 format)

2019-12-26
SYNOPSIS:by Matushka Elizabeth Philo. Length 48:35

What is the best way to prepare for confession and not feel like you are are being like a broken record? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Is confession a time to just state your sins, or explain them?
How do you come back from being broken for a long time?
Length 15:24

How do I help my parents find peace without being disrespectful? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:This question is answered by everyone on the panel, in 2 ways:
1. If there is a conflict with a parent.
2. If the parent has troubles and we do not know how to help them.
Length 12:27

Church's view of gender roles. Is is ok to go to college. Is it ok to just want to have a family, and not go to college? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 22:03

If two people have a child together and later get married, is this still considered "disintegrating" them? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 0:46

Is being Gay a false thought people try on or do some really struggle with this? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 14:06

How should you treat people who are gay? Panel Discussion. (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 2:32

Is liking metal music not Orthodox? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 4:01

Nature vs nurture. How much does birth affect our personalities? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 22:03

How do you deal with self-destructive thoughts? (mp3 format)

Panel Discussion
2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:Length 6:36

Our identity. Pulling together everything we have discussed in this conference. (mp3 format)

2019-12-29
SYNOPSIS:by Priest Nicholas Park Length 36:16

FILES: 164 HTML files, 168 HTML files, 41 Adobe PDF files, 41 RTF files, 236 Word DOC files, 1299 mp3 files, 2 Русская версия PDF files, 2 Русская версия RTF files

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St Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, McKinney, Texas