A priest should speak with a full voice. Homilies and reflections
A Priest should speak with a full voicePrison Ministry
Letter to prisoner
Prison Visit Reports
Etc
A Priest should speak with a full voice
- "Already ye are clean by reason of the word which i have spoken to you" A sinner who abides in the vine is clean! How do we understand this! John 15:3 (mp3 format)
- Hieromartyr Zenobius and his sister Zenobia Oct 30 "Life without Christ is not life but death, whereas death for the sake of Christ is not death but life." (mp3 format)
- Answer to the claim that Jesus never explicitly condemned homosexuality. What are some of the reasons that people justify homosexual activity? (mp3 format)
- "Most Holy Theotokos save us" Why do we say this? Prayer to the Saints. (mp3 format)
- Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day? I will have mercy and not sacrifice. (mp3 format)
- And other seed fell upon rocky placed and it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. Patience. (mp3 format)
- "When the Lord turned again the captivity of Sion, we became as men that are comforted" What is this comfort? (mp3 format)
- "Lord, my heart is not exalted, nor are mine eyes become lofty." A messianic psalm that describes Jesus Christ and instructs us in how to live. (mp3 format)
- "Behold now, what is so good or so joyous as for brethren to dwell together in unity?" Unity, vesting and the Divine Liturgy. (mp3 format)
- God hates lying. Do not lie because it is against the nature of God. All the comandments must be followed because the reflect the nature of God. (mp3 format)
- "Joseph was minded to put her away privily." Never cause a surrogate to do what you will not do. (mp3 format)
- Prayer for others is more important than anything else we do. The prayer of a pastor. (mp3 format)
- "But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth." Pleasure is not the purpose of life! Perfection is the purpose of life! (HTML format)
- The dangerous time after sin; repent, do not just be sorry. (mp3 format)
- "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" Have the right reason for everything. (mp3 format)
- Everyone should undestand John Chapter 3. Exegesis of John 3:1-21: being born again, baptism, incarnatinon, Ascension,cross and more: it is in there. (mp3 format)
- The Coke advertisement "open Happiness" illustrates the approach too many have to life and religion. (mp3 format)
- A pastoral answer to the question: "How do you do it all?" I yam what I yam, History, Prayer, Expectations. (HTML format)
- Why are there so many "cheating" songs? There is a good reason, and it is related to the role of sex and union with God. (mp3 format)
- "It is a sin to be scandalized by our own sinfulness." Commentary on this saying & Exegesis of James 1 (mp3 format)
- "Soldiers guarded Christ as they would a sleeping King" Reality and our perceptions. Beauty and necessity of the vigil. (mp3 format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- "Ye that eat the bread of sorrow, rouse yourselves after resting" Do not be afraid to be sad; good sadness always brings happiness. (mp3 format)
- "They that observe vain and false things have abandoned mercy for themselves." Sobering and comforting at the same time. (mp3 format)
- Full Voice (HTML format)
- Do not let the perfect be the enemey of the good. Absolutes happen in incremental steps. (mp3 format)
- Holy Cross Pilgrimage Reflections - Airport, scurrying around, doctrine, groupthink (mp3 format)
- Holy Cross Pilgrimage Reflections - Early morning services, excitement about changing, moments of clarity, stupid human tricks, morning birds. (mp3 format)
- Bad habits, little changes, self control, and coffee (mp3 format)
- Prison visit and Liturgy in the Michael unit: a miracle happened, then I went paddle boarding. (mp3 format)
- There should be no spaces in the life of a Christian. Redeeming the time. What should we want for our children? (mp3 format)
- Divine Liturgy Part 01:The purpose & origin of Liturgy, the Kingdom, stuff that makes sense and makes no sense, the deepest desire of a pastor for his flock. (mp3 format)
- The advice "Love yourself" is a lie of the demons. Love always has an onject. (mp3 format)
- Full Voice (HTML format)
- Patriarch Joseph the All-Comely. A type of Christ. Patron of Texas Orthodox Prison Ministry (Adobe PDF format)
- Commentary on Matthew Chapter 2. Holiness Happens. They departed into their own country another way. Excerpts from a letter to prisoners. (HTML format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Three rules of Ministry (and of life): Just Show up, "Here am I", & Pray (mp3 format)
- "In your world I have no meaning" A mandate for Christians in the secular breakup song "Missing you" (mp3 format)
- "The misfortune of monasteries nowadays is that people come here with weak wills" "You are a monk... All that we wanted from you was just one thing, the main thing: repentance and prayer. Instead of that, you gave us this woodwork..." "Every day Saints and other stories" (mp3 format)
- "No man putteth new wine into old wine skins" An answer to advocacy for the sexual heresy (and all old sins) of the age, ambiguously put forth by Priest Robert Arida (mp3 format)
- Planning for the future at St Nicholas and the main purpose of a parish. (Word DOC format)
- The Christian life, the priesthood, and cactus. (HTML format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed!" Jeremiah 17:14-17 A simple prayer with vehemence, expectation and a promise! Reading the Fathers is like reading scripture (HTML format)
- Twenty years a priest: higher than an angel. Reminisces: The best advice, regrets, the best parts. (Word DOC format)
- Pilgrimage to Holy Cross: Day 1: Distractions, Stupid human tricks and the Blessed hope (mp3 format)
- Pilgrimage to Holy Cross: Day 2: "Quench the flame of my passions, for I am poor and wretched, and deliver me from many and cruel memories and deeds, and free me from all their evil effects". (mp3 format)
- Pilgrimage to Holy Cross: Day 3: St Matrona of Moscow. The demons have it easier now. Quotes from her teaching. (mp3 format)
- After the Monastery. Differences between Monastacism and Lay life - a VERY short list. Everybody should be alone. (mp3 format)
- Praying when you have bad thoughts, grief, confusion, anger. (mp3 format)
- Parable of the Prodigal Son. Stages of repentance. The antidote for forgetfulness. (HTML format)
- "I will confess Thee, for awesomely art Thou wondrous, marvelous are Thy works, and my soul knoweth it right well." A personal commentary. (HTML format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- The priesthood, confession, reading scripture, peace in the heart, responsibility of lay people. (mp3 format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Ellie the miracle kid, healed by St Panteleimon (HTML format)
- ORPR camp: talk on the priesthood to younger campers. (mp3 format)
- Questions on sexuality, homosexuality, marriage and the church - at ORPR camp. (mp3 format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Unworthy though I be... the theme of Great Lent and life. (HTML format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Let us start from somewhere else. The important thing was to start. A saying of Elder Porphyrios, and its application. (HTML format)
- Full Voice (HTML format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Word DOC format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- "Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Mat 6:34) A command that must be understood in context (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
- When a loved one dies, "all we have left", is EVERYTHING. (Adobe PDF format)
- Full Voice (Adobe PDF format)
John 15:3
2013-11-08
SYNOPSIS:In His great discourse before His passion, the Lord makes the amazing statement: "Already ye are clean by reason of the word which I have spoken to you". He was saying this to confused men who were soon to flee from Him in fear. How are we to understand His words? This is very important, especially for sinners who feel worthless and dirty because of their sins.
2013-11-08
SYNOPSIS:In His great discourse before His passion, the Lord makes the amazing statement: "Already ye are clean by reason of the word which I have spoken to you". He was saying this to confused men who were soon to flee from Him in fear. How are we to understand His words? This is very important, especially for sinners who feel worthless and dirty because of their sins.
2013-11-12
SYNOPSIS:The life of Hieromartyr Zenobius and his sister Zenobia (Oct 30/ Nov 12), zeroing in on the most important part: "Life without Christ is not life but death, whereas death for the sake of Christ is not death but life."
SYNOPSIS:The life of Hieromartyr Zenobius and his sister Zenobia (Oct 30/ Nov 12), zeroing in on the most important part: "Life without Christ is not life but death, whereas death for the sake of Christ is not death but life."
2013-11-13
SYNOPSIS:A supposed gotcha that people use to support homosexuality is that Jesus never mentioned it in the Gospels. Therefore, according to their logic, that which was not mentioned was not condemned. The reasons for this scriptural claim are legion, and we look at several of them, the first of which is, of course, scriptural illiteracy.
SYNOPSIS:A supposed gotcha that people use to support homosexuality is that Jesus never mentioned it in the Gospels. Therefore, according to their logic, that which was not mentioned was not condemned. The reasons for this scriptural claim are legion, and we look at several of them, the first of which is, of course, scriptural illiteracy.
2013-11-23
SYNOPSIS:Something that gets the attention of Western believers and sometimes makes them even think they are witnessing blasphemy is our oft repeated petition to the Mother of God: "Most Holy Theotokos save us!" People often do not like and rarely benefit from something what they do not understand. We explain the very reasonable reasons for this petition and why it is important.
SYNOPSIS:Something that gets the attention of Western believers and sometimes makes them even think they are witnessing blasphemy is our oft repeated petition to the Mother of God: "Most Holy Theotokos save us!" People often do not like and rarely benefit from something what they do not understand. We explain the very reasonable reasons for this petition and why it is important.
Matthew 12:10, Matthew 12:7
2013-11-26
SYNOPSIS:Another question in Scripture that we must never ask, but know the answer to: "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day?"
2013-11-26
SYNOPSIS:Another question in Scripture that we must never ask, but know the answer to: "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath day?"
Matthew 13:5
2013-11-27
SYNOPSIS:The second kind of seed mentioned in the parable of the sower has a parenthetical statement that describes it: "and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth" What does this teach us? Patience.
2013-11-27
SYNOPSIS:The second kind of seed mentioned in the parable of the sower has a parenthetical statement that describes it: "and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth" What does this teach us? Patience.
Psalm 125:1-2
2013-12-17
SYNOPSIS:Psalm 125 exclaims "We became as men that are comforted." Everybody needs comfort. What is the comfort the Psalm is referring to?
2013-12-17
SYNOPSIS:Psalm 125 exclaims "We became as men that are comforted." Everybody needs comfort. What is the comfort the Psalm is referring to?
Psalm 130
2013-12-18
SYNOPSIS:Most Psalms are Messianic (describe Jesus Christ in some way), and Psalm 130 does this AND instructs us in the all important virtue of humility.
2013-12-18
SYNOPSIS:Most Psalms are Messianic (describe Jesus Christ in some way), and Psalm 130 does this AND instructs us in the all important virtue of humility.
Psalm 132:1-2
2013-12-19
SYNOPSIS:Psalm 132:2 is use in the vesting prayers of the priest. All would do well to remember the context of this prayer and how Divine Liturgy should be the ultimate expression of unity. Of course, we must understand the Christian meaning of "unity" which differs quite a lot from that of the world.
2013-12-19
SYNOPSIS:Psalm 132:2 is use in the vesting prayers of the priest. All would do well to remember the context of this prayer and how Divine Liturgy should be the ultimate expression of unity. Of course, we must understand the Christian meaning of "unity" which differs quite a lot from that of the world.
2013-12-20
SYNOPSIS:A sermon by Fr John Whiteford about lying (the ninth commandment) (http://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/amvon/thou_shalt_not_bear_false_witness) inspired these thoughts. God hates lying. To lie is to be unlike God. The reason for every commandment is that not following it means we act in opposition to God's nature. Also where all commandments are derived from. We must internalize the reason to follow the commandments!
SYNOPSIS:A sermon by Fr John Whiteford about lying (the ninth commandment) (http://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/amvon/thou_shalt_not_bear_false_witness) inspired these thoughts. God hates lying. To lie is to be unlike God. The reason for every commandment is that not following it means we act in opposition to God's nature. Also where all commandments are derived from. We must internalize the reason to follow the commandments!
Matthew 1:19
2013-12-21
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel tells us that when Joseph was aware of the pregnancy of Mary and thought she had sinned, he wanted to divorce her secretly. If he had accused he, he would have been required to cast the first stone when she was executed. This magnanimous gesture on the part of the righteous Joseph models for us a very important principle, which, alas, we often ignore: NEVER cause a surrogate to do something you would not do. This will save us from much sin.
2013-12-21
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel tells us that when Joseph was aware of the pregnancy of Mary and thought she had sinned, he wanted to divorce her secretly. If he had accused he, he would have been required to cast the first stone when she was executed. This magnanimous gesture on the part of the righteous Joseph models for us a very important principle, which, alas, we often ignore: NEVER cause a surrogate to do something you would not do. This will save us from much sin.
2013-12-22
SYNOPSIS:A pastor gives lots of sermons, teaches, hears many confessions, gives counsel countless times, and many other things. The most important thing a pastor and a Christian must do: prayer. Success should never be measured. We must pray; our prayer will do those we minister to more good than all the other things we do. Also, regarding confidence in our personal prayers and in this context, the intercessory prayer tradition in our parish. If we are not so good at praying, why should we still pray?
SYNOPSIS:A pastor gives lots of sermons, teaches, hears many confessions, gives counsel countless times, and many other things. The most important thing a pastor and a Christian must do: prayer. Success should never be measured. We must pray; our prayer will do those we minister to more good than all the other things we do. Also, regarding confidence in our personal prayers and in this context, the intercessory prayer tradition in our parish. If we are not so good at praying, why should we still pray?
Matthew 27:3-5
2014-01-01
SYNOPSIS:Judas was sorry that he betrayed Christ (Matthew 27:3-5), but he did not repent. Repentance is more than sorrow. The time after sin is dangerous; we must learn how to turn our sorrow, shame and the bad feelings we have about ourselves into active and healing repentance.
2014-01-01
SYNOPSIS:Judas was sorry that he betrayed Christ (Matthew 27:3-5), but he did not repent. Repentance is more than sorrow. The time after sin is dangerous; we must learn how to turn our sorrow, shame and the bad feelings we have about ourselves into active and healing repentance.
Matthew 26:49-50
2014-01-03
SYNOPSIS:We must answer all questions in the Gospels, such as that of Jesus to Judas when he came to the garden to betray Him: "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" this question must be answered before we do anything. Too much of what we do has hidden agendas that even we are not aware of. The true Christian knows why he does everything. This is a learned skill.
2014-01-03
SYNOPSIS:We must answer all questions in the Gospels, such as that of Jesus to Judas when he came to the garden to betray Him: "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" this question must be answered before we do anything. Too much of what we do has hidden agendas that even we are not aware of. The true Christian knows why he does everything. This is a learned skill.
John 3:1-21
2014-01-04
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of John 3:1-1-21. Every catechuman should hear this exegesis and understand this Scripture. It covers everything here: being born again, Baptism, the Holy Spirit, the Incarnation, the Ascension, Relationships, the Cross. All of it we must know and understand.
2014-01-04
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of John 3:1-1-21. Every catechuman should hear this exegesis and understand this Scripture. It covers everything here: being born again, Baptism, the Holy Spirit, the Incarnation, the Ascension, Relationships, the Cross. All of it we must know and understand.
2014-01-10
SYNOPSIS:Coke has a billboard with the "Coke bear" drinking a Coke, with the words "Open happiness" This sums up our culture which also reaches into the the way many people approach religion and God. How do we find happiness?
SYNOPSIS:Coke has a billboard with the "Coke bear" drinking a Coke, with the words "Open happiness" This sums up our culture which also reaches into the the way many people approach religion and God. How do we find happiness?
2014-01-13
Also in Format: Word DOC
Also in Format: Word DOC
2014-01-14
SYNOPSIS:Why are there so many cheating songs? Why do sexually active people almost always feel getting "cheated" on is a bad thing? This is related to our role as creators, a God-like thing we are entrusted with from our Creator. Only some kinds of sex can help us attain union with God.
SYNOPSIS:Why are there so many cheating songs? Why do sexually active people almost always feel getting "cheated" on is a bad thing? This is related to our role as creators, a God-like thing we are entrusted with from our Creator. Only some kinds of sex can help us attain union with God.
2014-01-24
SYNOPSIS:"It is a sin to be scandalized by our own sinfulness" is a saying attributed to Thomas Aquinas that is wholly Orthodox, but not well understood. Let us understand this very important aspect of victorious spiritual life. James the Brother of the Lord will help us.
SYNOPSIS:"It is a sin to be scandalized by our own sinfulness" is a saying attributed to Thomas Aquinas that is wholly Orthodox, but not well understood. Let us understand this very important aspect of victorious spiritual life. James the Brother of the Lord will help us.
Sunday Matins Sessional Hymn Tone 6
2014-01-28
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Sunday Matins Sessional hymn: "Life lay in the tomb, and a seal was affixed to the stone. Soldiers guarded Christ as they would a sleeping King, and the Lord arose, invisibly smiting his enemies." Reality is always true, whether we recognize it our not. We must learn to recognize it. Also an apology for vigil.
2014-01-28
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Sunday Matins Sessional hymn: "Life lay in the tomb, and a seal was affixed to the stone. Soldiers guarded Christ as they would a sleeping King, and the Lord arose, invisibly smiting his enemies." Reality is always true, whether we recognize it our not. We must learn to recognize it. Also an apology for vigil.
Six Meditations On The Hymns Of The Publican The Pharisee
2014-02-08
2014-02-08
Triodion Hymns For The Sunday Of Forgiveness The Casting Out Of Adam From Paradise
2014-03-02
2014-03-02
Psalm 126:2
2014-03-20
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Psalm 126:2: "Ye that eat the bread of sorrow, rouse yourselves after resting" True Christianity feels sorrow, which always leads to joy. People are afraid of sorrow! Do not be afraid, but cultivate good sorrow.
2014-03-20
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Psalm 126:2: "Ye that eat the bread of sorrow, rouse yourselves after resting" True Christianity feels sorrow, which always leads to joy. People are afraid of sorrow! Do not be afraid, but cultivate good sorrow.
Biblical Ode 6. Jonah 2:9
2014-03-27
SYNOPSIS:The Biblical Odes are used especially during Great Lent. and during weekday matins, this verse, from ode 6, is always said: "They that observe vain and false things have abandoned mercy for themselves." This is one of my favorite parts of the matins service, because this pithy verse describes the reason for ALL our problems, and the simple solution. It is sobering, rebuking, but also comforting. It reminds me of the oft read scripture: " For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor might, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom 8:38-39) Nothing can separate the sinner from God, except if the sinner observes vain and false things without repentance.
2014-03-27
SYNOPSIS:The Biblical Odes are used especially during Great Lent. and during weekday matins, this verse, from ode 6, is always said: "They that observe vain and false things have abandoned mercy for themselves." This is one of my favorite parts of the matins service, because this pithy verse describes the reason for ALL our problems, and the simple solution. It is sobering, rebuking, but also comforting. It reminds me of the oft read scripture: " For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor might, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Rom 8:38-39) Nothing can separate the sinner from God, except if the sinner observes vain and false things without repentance.
Do Not Say After Spending A Long Time At Prayer
Ladder-Of-Divine-Ascent-Step 28-29
2014-04-10
Also in Format: Word DOC
Ladder-Of-Divine-Ascent-Step 28-29
2014-04-10
Also in Format: Word DOC
Acts 5:12-20
2014-04-27
SYNOPSIS:This reflection is a reaction to good advice given to me after I gave a homily on Acts 5:12-20 before Matins on Saturday evening. In that homily, I stated that it takes courage to be a Christian, and that without courage you cannot be a Christian. This is an absolute statement, and is true, but is very difficult for many to bear, and must be qualified. Courage, forgiveness, chastity and many other virtues all have absolutes associated with them - some directly from the mouth of Jesus, but the reaching of these absolutes happens in stages. This reflection is meant to be an encouragement and call to arms for the weak among us - that is everyone.
2014-04-27
SYNOPSIS:This reflection is a reaction to good advice given to me after I gave a homily on Acts 5:12-20 before Matins on Saturday evening. In that homily, I stated that it takes courage to be a Christian, and that without courage you cannot be a Christian. This is an absolute statement, and is true, but is very difficult for many to bear, and must be qualified. Courage, forgiveness, chastity and many other virtues all have absolutes associated with them - some directly from the mouth of Jesus, but the reaching of these absolutes happens in stages. This reflection is meant to be an encouragement and call to arms for the weak among us - that is everyone.
2014-04-29
SYNOPSIS:Reflections about my Spring 2014 pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Holy Cross. In the Airport. Delays. Scurrying around. How much do we do in life that really matters. How important is doctrine in Christianity? The Donald Sterling controversy (a NBA basketball franchise owner who was recorded making extremely racist comments) - it is more than it seems. The language used to condemn his despicable actions will be the same language that will be used to condemn true Christianity. We are witnessing groupthink. Lies are routinely told about those who believe in "traditional Christian morality". Watch for it.
SYNOPSIS:Reflections about my Spring 2014 pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Holy Cross. In the Airport. Delays. Scurrying around. How much do we do in life that really matters. How important is doctrine in Christianity? The Donald Sterling controversy (a NBA basketball franchise owner who was recorded making extremely racist comments) - it is more than it seems. The language used to condemn his despicable actions will be the same language that will be used to condemn true Christianity. We are witnessing groupthink. Lies are routinely told about those who believe in "traditional Christian morality". Watch for it.
2014-05-01
SYNOPSIS:Reflections about my Spring 2014 pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Holy Cross. Getting up at 4 am. Early Services. Perspective. Clarity for the mind. Excitement before a service begins; something is going to change and get better. Precious moments of attention. Stupid human tricks. Always expect something to change for the better. Missing stuff if a person only comes on Sunday. Morning birds.
SYNOPSIS:Reflections about my Spring 2014 pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Holy Cross. Getting up at 4 am. Early Services. Perspective. Clarity for the mind. Excitement before a service begins; something is going to change and get better. Precious moments of attention. Stupid human tricks. Always expect something to change for the better. Missing stuff if a person only comes on Sunday. Morning birds.
2014-05-21
SYNOPSIS:A reflection about the benefits on changing a little thing, increased self-control and the beneficial effect this has on our bad habits, using decreasing coffee intake as a real world example. Apologies for a little road noise; I often have ideas when I am driving home from a prison visit.
SYNOPSIS:A reflection about the benefits on changing a little thing, increased self-control and the beneficial effect this has on our bad habits, using decreasing coffee intake as a real world example. Apologies for a little road noise; I often have ideas when I am driving home from a prison visit.
Prison Ministry
2014-07-02
SYNOPSIS:A description of a prison visit to the Michael Unit, in Texas. I served liturgy, and participated in a miracle. A little discursion about the best kinds of miracles. Also notes about how incredibly unique prison liturgies are. Grace happens, but not always neatly or according to established norms. Then a report on the celebrating priest adventures paddle boarding on the (appropriately enough) Trinity River, and a gentle invitation to be part of our humble prison ministry.
2014-07-02
SYNOPSIS:A description of a prison visit to the Michael Unit, in Texas. I served liturgy, and participated in a miracle. A little discursion about the best kinds of miracles. Also notes about how incredibly unique prison liturgies are. Grace happens, but not always neatly or according to established norms. Then a report on the celebrating priest adventures paddle boarding on the (appropriately enough) Trinity River, and a gentle invitation to be part of our humble prison ministry.
2014-07-17
SYNOPSIS:Sitting alone in my eldest daughter's house after caring for their cats, being philosophical. A few of my thoughts are summarized here. There are signs of children all around, lots of signs of life being lived. So much of our life is space. A Christian should not have space in his life. The goal of a parent should be for their child to be better than them - not more educated or "successful" but more holy, more whole, not broken in any way and to save their souls. I wonder how did I do? It is funny that when you are better at something, you no longer have to do it. I celebrated the liturgy today; this is the only time in my life that there are no spaces, that everything I do is worthwhile. Time is precious. We need to use it right, to redeem the time.
SYNOPSIS:Sitting alone in my eldest daughter's house after caring for their cats, being philosophical. A few of my thoughts are summarized here. There are signs of children all around, lots of signs of life being lived. So much of our life is space. A Christian should not have space in his life. The goal of a parent should be for their child to be better than them - not more educated or "successful" but more holy, more whole, not broken in any way and to save their souls. I wonder how did I do? It is funny that when you are better at something, you no longer have to do it. I celebrated the liturgy today; this is the only time in my life that there are no spaces, that everything I do is worthwhile. Time is precious. We need to use it right, to redeem the time.
Divine Liturgy
2014-07-20
SYNOPSIS:The beginning of a series on the Divine Liturgy. The greatest prayer. The purpose of liturgy. Very few understand it. The origin of Liturgy. About the Kingdom. About what being alive really means. The deepest desire of a pastor for his flock regarding the liturgy.
2014-07-20
SYNOPSIS:The beginning of a series on the Divine Liturgy. The greatest prayer. The purpose of liturgy. Very few understand it. The origin of Liturgy. About the Kingdom. About what being alive really means. The deepest desire of a pastor for his flock regarding the liturgy.
2014-08-02
SYNOPSIS:Common secular wisdom is that many psychological problems stem from a person not heeding the advice to "love yourself" Our whole culture believes this lie. Who and how should Christians love and WHY? This question is answered by understanding who God is and what love is.
SYNOPSIS:Common secular wisdom is that many psychological problems stem from a person not heeding the advice to "love yourself" Our whole culture believes this lie. Who and how should Christians love and WHY? This question is answered by understanding who God is and what love is.
2014-09-02
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A summary of the life of Joseph the All-comely, and many examples of how he is a type of Christ. Joseph is the patron for Orthodox prison ministry in Texas.
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A summary of the life of Joseph the All-comely, and many examples of how he is a type of Christ. Joseph is the patron for Orthodox prison ministry in Texas.
Matthew 2:1-15
2014-09-22
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:The prisoners (in the Texas state prison system) that I see weekly are reading the Gospels together. I have asked them to comment upon what they read, or ask questions, and I promised to send them simple commentaries. These small offerings, which are usually part of a letter sent to them, are not meant to be a scholarly exegesis, or comprehensive. We must read the Gospels daily, and simply, and be like Mary, sitting at the feet of Jesus, desiring to be taught something edifying for our soul. Commentary on the first part of Matthewe chapter 2, concentrating on Herod and the Magi.
2014-09-22
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:The prisoners (in the Texas state prison system) that I see weekly are reading the Gospels together. I have asked them to comment upon what they read, or ask questions, and I promised to send them simple commentaries. These small offerings, which are usually part of a letter sent to them, are not meant to be a scholarly exegesis, or comprehensive. We must read the Gospels daily, and simply, and be like Mary, sitting at the feet of Jesus, desiring to be taught something edifying for our soul. Commentary on the first part of Matthewe chapter 2, concentrating on Herod and the Magi.
Commentary On Scripture
Matthew-03
2014-09-22
Matthew-03
2014-09-22
Commentary On Scripture
Matthew-04
2014-09-22
Matthew-04
2014-09-22
2014-10-04
SYNOPSIS:Christian ministry, which is (should be!) just like ordinary Christian life, has three main rules, which I have learned over the years. I explain, not in order of importance: 1. JUST SHOW UP 2. "HERE AM I" and, the most important, put last for a metaphorical reason: PRAY.
SYNOPSIS:Christian ministry, which is (should be!) just like ordinary Christian life, has three main rules, which I have learned over the years. I explain, not in order of importance: 1. JUST SHOW UP 2. "HERE AM I" and, the most important, put last for a metaphorical reason: PRAY.
2014-10-09
SYNOPSIS:Secular music often has profound truths in it if you hear it spiritually. An example is the breakup song "Missing you" (by John Waite), which has the depressive, nihilistic lyric: "In your world I have no meaning". Hearing this lyric on the heels of some excellent talks by Fr Moses Berry (from the recent 21st annual St Moses the Black conference) caused me to search for spiritual meaning in secular things, as I always do. Despite its mundane subject, this song is an impressive mandate to Christians. Nobody should ever say this about a true Christian! I am convinced that many believe this, not about former girlfriend, but about whole classes and races of people and about true Christianity (because their experiences with "Christianity" have not been true. This idea explains much of the reason for and reaction to the tragedy in Ferguson MO, for example. How can everyone in our world have meaning? (This was recorded on the way home from prison, but the fidelity is pretty good.)
SYNOPSIS:Secular music often has profound truths in it if you hear it spiritually. An example is the breakup song "Missing you" (by John Waite), which has the depressive, nihilistic lyric: "In your world I have no meaning". Hearing this lyric on the heels of some excellent talks by Fr Moses Berry (from the recent 21st annual St Moses the Black conference) caused me to search for spiritual meaning in secular things, as I always do. Despite its mundane subject, this song is an impressive mandate to Christians. Nobody should ever say this about a true Christian! I am convinced that many believe this, not about former girlfriend, but about whole classes and races of people and about true Christianity (because their experiences with "Christianity" have not been true. This idea explains much of the reason for and reaction to the tragedy in Ferguson MO, for example. How can everyone in our world have meaning? (This was recorded on the way home from prison, but the fidelity is pretty good.)
Every Day Saints and Other Stories
2014-11-19
SYNOPSIS:Two quotes examined from "Every day Saints and other stories" "The misfortune of monasteries nowadays is that people come here with weak wills" "You are a monk... All that we wanted from you was just one thing, the main thing: repentance and prayer. Instead of that, you gave us this woodwork..." "Every day Saints and other stories" They are lined. The thing we need is to develop our will. God will help us, but we must work to reshape our priorities.
2014-11-19
SYNOPSIS:Two quotes examined from "Every day Saints and other stories" "The misfortune of monasteries nowadays is that people come here with weak wills" "You are a monk... All that we wanted from you was just one thing, the main thing: repentance and prayer. Instead of that, you gave us this woodwork..." "Every day Saints and other stories" They are lined. The thing we need is to develop our will. God will help us, but we must work to reshape our priorities.
Luke 5:36-39
2014-11-25
SYNOPSIS:My reading this morning answers the "new and alien spirit" of the activism of Priest Fr Robert Arida for a life in which new wine is put into "old wineskins" The new wine is the Christian way of life, its dogma and morality. According to our Lord, those who indulge in old ways - that is self-centeredness, parsimony, worldliness, sexual sin (of course, this includes all fornication, including all same sex activity), and all the rest - do not prefer the new way because they say "the old is better" Clearly, the old ways, that is sin, are not compatible with Christianity. We talk about developing a taste for the new wine, and also how to interact with those who still prefer the old wine. The reception that Jesus attended in the home of Levi the tax collector (the Apostle Matthew) shows us what to do. Offer love, hospitality, acceptance of the person, to everyone. Break natural bread with all, and love all, but do so in truth.
2014-11-25
SYNOPSIS:My reading this morning answers the "new and alien spirit" of the activism of Priest Fr Robert Arida for a life in which new wine is put into "old wineskins" The new wine is the Christian way of life, its dogma and morality. According to our Lord, those who indulge in old ways - that is self-centeredness, parsimony, worldliness, sexual sin (of course, this includes all fornication, including all same sex activity), and all the rest - do not prefer the new way because they say "the old is better" Clearly, the old ways, that is sin, are not compatible with Christianity. We talk about developing a taste for the new wine, and also how to interact with those who still prefer the old wine. The reception that Jesus attended in the home of Levi the tax collector (the Apostle Matthew) shows us what to do. Offer love, hospitality, acceptance of the person, to everyone. Break natural bread with all, and love all, but do so in truth.
2014-12-29
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Short, medium and long term plans for the future at St Nicholas and the main purpose of a parish. A little theology too: the meaning of "Catholic".
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Short, medium and long term plans for the future at St Nicholas and the main purpose of a parish. A little theology too: the meaning of "Catholic".
2015
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts on the Christian life, the priesthood, and cactus after a cactus bloomed in the middle of a very hot summer after watering.
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts on the Christian life, the priesthood, and cactus after a cactus bloomed in the middle of a very hot summer after watering.
I Believe In One God The Father Almighty
If Ye Call On The Father
1 Peter 1-17
2015-01-26
If Ye Call On The Father
1 Peter 1-17
2015-01-26
Reading The Fathers Is Like Reading Scripture
Jeremiah 17:14-17
2015-02-24
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A little explanation of the prayer from Jeremiah: "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise. Behold, they say to me, Where is the word of the Lord? let it come. But I have not been weary of following thee, nor have I desired the day of man; thou knowest; the words that proceed out of my lips are before thy face. Be not to me a stranger, but spare me in the evil day.". Also about reading the Fathers.
Jeremiah 17:14-17
2015-02-24
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A little explanation of the prayer from Jeremiah: "Heal me, O Lord, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved; for thou art my praise. Behold, they say to me, Where is the word of the Lord? let it come. But I have not been weary of following thee, nor have I desired the day of man; thou knowest; the words that proceed out of my lips are before thy face. Be not to me a stranger, but spare me in the evil day.". Also about reading the Fathers.
2015-03-07
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts on the eve of my 20 year anniversary to the priesthood. The best advice I received, the main purpose of the priesthood, things I learned, regrets I have, and would I do it again?
Also in Format: mp3
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts on the eve of my 20 year anniversary to the priesthood. The best advice I received, the main purpose of the priesthood, things I learned, regrets I have, and would I do it again?
Blessed Hope Of Christianity
2015-04-30 Thu
SYNOPSIS:Day 1 of my pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Holy Cross. Travel distractions. Stupid human tricks. There will be a day when we have no distractions, only us and God, and no noise. This is the blessed hope of Christianity. This was recorded while walking on a gravel road, but the words are quite understandable.
2015-04-30 Thu
SYNOPSIS:Day 1 of my pilgrimage to the Hermitage of the Holy Cross. Travel distractions. Stupid human tricks. There will be a day when we have no distractions, only us and God, and no noise. This is the blessed hope of Christianity. This was recorded while walking on a gravel road, but the words are quite understandable.
2015-05-01
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of a prayer in the midnight office: "Quench the flame of my passions, for I am poor and wretched, and deliver me from many and cruel memories and deeds, and free me from all their evil effects". A note to those who are not Orthodox Christians about understanding prayers to the Theotokos, so they are not "scary". Why do we say "Most Holy Theotokos save us?" A dog teaches me about knowing my purpose. An apology for the Midnight Office. The privilege of the priesthood. People get help in monasteries, because monastics love others in a different way than most in the world. Christianity is to be FREE. No cruel memories and deeds in heaven!
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of a prayer in the midnight office: "Quench the flame of my passions, for I am poor and wretched, and deliver me from many and cruel memories and deeds, and free me from all their evil effects". A note to those who are not Orthodox Christians about understanding prayers to the Theotokos, so they are not "scary". Why do we say "Most Holy Theotokos save us?" A dog teaches me about knowing my purpose. An apology for the Midnight Office. The privilege of the priesthood. People get help in monasteries, because monastics love others in a different way than most in the world. Christianity is to be FREE. No cruel memories and deeds in heaven!
2015-05-02
Holy Cross Pilgrimage
2015-05-20
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts a week after leaving the Monastery. there are no substantive differences between Monastic and non-Monastic life. Being alone is not just for monks. It is for everyone, since the world is secular and we are not. We must go into our closet and pray, just like a monk.
2015-05-20
SYNOPSIS:Thoughts a week after leaving the Monastery. there are no substantive differences between Monastic and non-Monastic life. Being alone is not just for monks. It is for everyone, since the world is secular and we are not. We must go into our closet and pray, just like a monk.
Praying When You Have Bad Thoughts Grief Confusion Anger
2015-06-24
SYNOPSIS:On the way to prison today I heard a song and though of a friend who killed himself. I often have hard thoughts about this. what did I do? I prayed. About praying when you have bad thoughts, grief, confusion, anger.
2015-06-24
SYNOPSIS:On the way to prison today I heard a song and though of a friend who killed himself. I often have hard thoughts about this. what did I do? I prayed. About praying when you have bad thoughts, grief, confusion, anger.
Luke 15:11-32
2015-09-17
Also in Format: RTF
SYNOPSIS:A synopsis of the Parable of the Prodigal son, emphasizing the words of the son to His father AFTER the Father had received his repentance: "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son."
2015-09-17
Also in Format: RTF
SYNOPSIS:A synopsis of the Parable of the Prodigal son, emphasizing the words of the son to His father AFTER the Father had received his repentance: "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son."
Psalm 138:14
2015-09-19
Also in Format: RTF
SYNOPSIS:A personal commentary on this psalm verse. The entire purpose of Christianity can be said to be in the fulfillment of this verse. For now, we labor, and sometimes we forget, but there is always a part that remembers this promise.
2015-09-19
Also in Format: RTF
SYNOPSIS:A personal commentary on this psalm verse. The entire purpose of Christianity can be said to be in the fulfillment of this verse. For now, we labor, and sometimes we forget, but there is always a part that remembers this promise.
Gleanings From The Fathers
Prison Straight Talk
2015-10-20
Prison Straight Talk
2015-10-20
Without A Vision The People Perish
2015-11-05
2015-11-05
ORPR CAMP http://www.orprcamp.org/
2016
SYNOPSIS:Talk with ORPR camp older youth: The priesthood, priesthood ordination service, with extensive discussion of confession, reading the scripture, peace in the heart, the responsibility of lay people.
2016
SYNOPSIS:Talk with ORPR camp older youth: The priesthood, priesthood ordination service, with extensive discussion of confession, reading the scripture, peace in the heart, the responsibility of lay people.
Pre Lenten Letter And Resource Guide
Letter To St Hermans Conferees
2016-03-12
Letter To St Hermans Conferees
2016-03-12
Monastery Pilgrimage, Spring, 2016
2016-05-17 Tuesday
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Ellie is a goat kid who was brought back to life by St Panteleimon. This is her story, and why it matters. Her name is because of St Panteleimon, which means "all-merciful". It is a shortening of "eleison", the Greek word, meaning "mercy"
2016-05-17 Tuesday
Also in Format: Word DOC or mp3
SYNOPSIS:Ellie is a goat kid who was brought back to life by St Panteleimon. This is her story, and why it matters. Her name is because of St Panteleimon, which means "all-merciful". It is a shortening of "eleison", the Greek word, meaning "mercy"
Talk On Priesthood To Young Campers
2016-07-15
SYNOPSIS:This session captures some of the controlled chaos that happens when very interactive younger campers hear a talk from the priest. We covered various aspects of the priesthood, and an upcoming ordination, and fielded every question that came our way. We had to dig a few out of the dirt, but we handled them all!
2016-07-15
SYNOPSIS:This session captures some of the controlled chaos that happens when very interactive younger campers hear a talk from the priest. We covered various aspects of the priesthood, and an upcoming ordination, and fielded every question that came our way. We had to dig a few out of the dirt, but we handled them all!
ORPR CAMP http://www.orprcamp.org/
2016-07-18
SYNOPSIS:At ORPR camp (http://www.orprcamp.org/), the campers write questions and the priests answer them. These are the most popular sessions. To tell the truth, the theological sessions get a lot of sleepy faces, but the audience was engaged for these questions: Why does the church not support gay people? And why do some people call it unnatural to be in love with the same sex? And why do they call it a sin? Do you think being gay is a mental illness? What happens if you have sex before marriage? We must teach our youth the reason for Christian behavior and the lies of modern culture. This is as important than teaching them about the "Our Father"
2016-07-18
SYNOPSIS:At ORPR camp (http://www.orprcamp.org/), the campers write questions and the priests answer them. These are the most popular sessions. To tell the truth, the theological sessions get a lot of sleepy faces, but the audience was engaged for these questions: Why does the church not support gay people? And why do some people call it unnatural to be in love with the same sex? And why do they call it a sin? Do you think being gay is a mental illness? What happens if you have sex before marriage? We must teach our youth the reason for Christian behavior and the lies of modern culture. This is as important than teaching them about the "Our Father"
_2017+-theodore-the-sanctified-on-useless-questions+a-simple-and-essential-prayer-rule Theodore The Sanctified On Useless Questions
A Simple And Essential Prayer Rule
2017
Also in Format: Word DOC
A Simple And Essential Prayer Rule
2017
Also in Format: Word DOC
Pastoral attentiveness Of Elder Porphyrios
A Small Prayer
2017
A Small Prayer
2017
Great Lent
2017
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A hymn from the Triodion, Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare), Matins Canon, Ode 1 is one of many Lenten prayers that teaches us the theme of Great Lent and life.
2017
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:A hymn from the Triodion, Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare), Matins Canon, Ode 1 is one of many Lenten prayers that teaches us the theme of Great Lent and life.
Pastoral Letter
Meeting Of The Lord
2017-02-14
Meeting Of The Lord
2017-02-14
Orthodox Teaching About The Theotokos
2017-02-18
2017-02-18
A Simple Honest Prayer We Are To Blame Prayer Must Not Stand Alone
Teachings Of St Paisios Of Mount Athos
2017-06-09
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC
Teachings Of St Paisios Of Mount Athos
2017-06-09
Also in Format: Adobe PDF or Word DOC
Fasting Is done With The Heart as Well As The Stomach
2018
2018
Commentary on Matthew 6:34
2018-06-19
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Matthew 6:34, emphasizing the context of the context in the Sermon on the Mount
2018-06-19
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Matthew 6:34, emphasizing the context of the context in the Sermon on the Mount
Psalm 55 A Messianic Psalm That Is Also About How To Confront Our Thoughts And Passions
2020
Also in Format: Word DOC
2020
Also in Format: Word DOC
2020-01-31
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Many people "are stuck" in their grief. This very short essay draws on my experience of intense grief, and how it will transform us. I do not want anyone to be stuck in their grief, so that they think they "have nothing left"
Also in Format: Word DOC
SYNOPSIS:Many people "are stuck" in their grief. This very short essay draws on my experience of intense grief, and how it will transform us. I do not want anyone to be stuck in their grief, so that they think they "have nothing left"
Prison Ministry
SYNOPSIS:Letter to prisoners. Topics: How to think about personal intercessory prayer. Christian Life Skills: Praying for others. Praying for enemies, The Jesus Prayer. To pray for someone more diligently
SYNOPSIS:Letter to Prisoners. Topics: The Nativity fast, St John Chrysostom on true fasting, Gleanings for the Holy Fathers - Fasting
SYNOPSIS:The Jesus Prayer.
A short and ecletic teaching about baptism
Baptism - to immerse
Scripture and baptism
An Entry into the Church
The Gift of the Holy Spirit
The Sacrament (Mystery) of Christian Baptism
St Cyprian of Carthage
Address at the Baptism of AP
After baptism ....
- Letter to prisoners: The Most important Stuff - Prayer, then Prayer, then Prayer, and a lot more. (HTML format)
- Letter to Prisoners: The Communion of the Saints. Hieromartyr Lucian of Antioch Longinus the Centurion, who stood at the cross Holy Prophet Hosea The Sermon on the Mount The Beatitudes (HTML format)
- Purpose of Great Lent. Forgiveness Sunday. We are going to do violence now. Why do we fast? Pastoral Letter to Prisoners. (HTML format)
- Excerpts from letters to prisoners. Holy Week, 2015. The Purpose of Life & The Image and likeness of God . Confessing the same stuff over and over. FIGHT! (HTML format)
- Letter to prisoners. The Most important life skill. O Heavenly King. The Jesus Prayer. (HTML format)
- Letter to Prisoners. Catechumen service explained. Exorcisms, Renunciations, Affirmations, The Creed. Disposition (HTML format)
- Prison Ministry Update. 90% of life is just showing up. Whatever crosses your path. (HTML format)
- What is sin? Confession of sins is a skill. (HTML format)
- Prison Ministry (HTML format)
- Three letters from prisoners about how Orthodoxy has influenced them. (HTML format)
- Three letters from prisoners about how Orthodoxy has influenced them. (HTML format)
- Anger, prayer and dynamite! How to lengthen the fuse. Letter to a prisoner. (HTML format)
- Prison Ministry (HTML format)
- What is a catechumen? The Symbol of Faith. A question for all Christians who believe in the Bible and the Holy Trinity (HTML format)
- Depression, hopelessness, helplessness. How to fight our thoughts. Catechetical Questions. Letter to a prisoner (HTML format)
- Letter to a prisoner. Coarseness of life, the unhappiness of prison, and prayer. Mary of Egypt Shows Us How to Repent. How to Cultivate a Repentant Spirit (HTML format)
- Prison Ministry (Word DOC format)
- About complaining about our problems. (HTML format)
- Prison visit Report:Racism and prayer. (mp3 format)
- Jailhouse talk about prayer and remembrance. "These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them" (John 16:4) "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." (John 16:12) (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit Report. Prison ministry is the answer to the prayer: "Lord, help me to be patient" (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit Report. a Paschal Visit. Letters matter - everything matters. Sometimes it takes a long time. (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit report: teaching day. (mp3 format)
- A Prison Visit report:Solitary confinement : Just show up : Biblical literacy : Keep it simple (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit Report: There is *NO* typical day in prison ministry. Two main principles of ministry. Praying is the hardest thing. Suggestions about the Jesus prayer. (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit Report: Best St Sergius day ever - new wine in old bottles - the unjust judge - three rules of ministry - "Patches" (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit Report. (mp3 format)
- A Prison Visit: Time well spent, the name of God, tongues, psychics (mp3 format)
- The Gospel in a letter. The best place for the Gospel is in our hearts. Race relations in Prison (mp3 format)
- Prison Liturgies are Different. Entrance of the Theotokos. Why Theotokos save us? How to fight! (mp3 format)
- Prison Visit Report: adapting, the law of God, ceremonial law, sexual sins, can homosexuals come to church, suicides, weakness from youthful sins. (mp3 format)
- Two baptisms in prison,. Qualifications for prison ministry. A typical day. What being baptized into "His death" is and many other aspects of the Orthodox baptism service. (mp3 format)
These thoughts were partially caused, I think , by my "taking stock" as I approach the 20th anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood, on the 2nd Sunday of Great Lent, 1995 (Mar 6/19).'>A priest has one task - to be present in frequent prayer with his flock at all times. Presanctified Liturgy at the prison. (mp3 format)- The Prayer of St Ephrem, & "Before Thy Cross" explained in detail. Attributes of the soul: knowledge, desire, will. Prison ministry philosophy, and a Chuck Norris joke! (mp3 format)
- A visit that actually went as planned: Great Canon of St. Andrew of Crete, Life of St Mary of Egypt, stimulating discussion, & 3 catechumens. (mp3 format)
- Teaching at the prison: The Akathist, chanting, emotion in prayer, praying when angry, two most important things: purpose and prayer (mp3 format)
- Divine Liturgy at the Powledge Unit. Baptism at the Michael Unit. Differences in the prison Typicon and practice. (HTML format)
- Prison Ministry (HTML format)
- A talk on Prison Ministry given at the OCA Pastoral Assembly at St Maximus Orthodox Church, Denton Texas (mp3 format)
Letter to prisoner
2014-10-25
SYNOPSIS:A letter to prisoners, covering a multitude of topics: The Most important Stuff - Prayer, then Prayer, then Prayer.
Prayer of St Ephrem to the Saints for intercession
St Ephrem - Psalm 27 - Do NOT LOSE HEART. There is hope AND IT IS CHRIST.
Then was Jesus led up by the Spirit into the Wilderness
Why Memorize Scripture?
Darkness and Light
Our Salvation is very near.
On Fasting
SYNOPSIS:A letter to prisoners, covering a multitude of topics: The Most important Stuff - Prayer, then Prayer, then Prayer.
Prayer of St Ephrem to the Saints for intercession
St Ephrem - Psalm 27 - Do NOT LOSE HEART. There is hope AND IT IS CHRIST.
Then was Jesus led up by the Spirit into the Wilderness
Why Memorize Scripture?
Darkness and Light
Our Salvation is very near.
On Fasting
Matthew 5:1-12
2014-10-30
SYNOPSIS:A letter sent to inmates of a Texas prison. The main topic was how Orthodox celebrate feasts, and the Twelve days of Christmas, plus some gleanings from the Holy Fathers on Nativity.
2014-10-30
SYNOPSIS:A letter sent to inmates of a Texas prison. The main topic was how Orthodox celebrate feasts, and the Twelve days of Christmas, plus some gleanings from the Holy Fathers on Nativity.
2015-02-21
2015-04-09
SYNOPSIS:Excerpts from letters to prisoners. Holy Week, 2015
The Purpose of Life
The Image and likeness of God
Confessing the same stuff over and over.
FIGHT!
Why were Zacharias and Elizabeth childless?
Life is simple.
A New Commandment
Troubles and the Medicine of Immortality
Fighting Thoughts
Behold the man! What is truth! Holy Week - Holy Friday - At the tomb John 18:38; John 19:5
SYNOPSIS:Excerpts from letters to prisoners. Holy Week, 2015
The Purpose of Life
The Image and likeness of God
Confessing the same stuff over and over.
FIGHT!
Why were Zacharias and Elizabeth childless?
Life is simple.
A New Commandment
Troubles and the Medicine of Immortality
Fighting Thoughts
Behold the man! What is truth! Holy Week - Holy Friday - At the tomb John 18:38; John 19:5
2015-06-23
2015-09-23
SYNOPSIS:A letter written when on a spiritual retreat on a ranch in Indian Creek, Almost heaven, West Texas... I am preparing several men for baptism. Important information about the Catechumen service, the exorcisms. Why the Creed is important. Our disposition determines everything
SYNOPSIS:A letter written when on a spiritual retreat on a ranch in Indian Creek, Almost heaven, West Texas... I am preparing several men for baptism. Important information about the Catechumen service, the exorcisms. Why the Creed is important. Our disposition determines everything
Prison Ministry Update
2015-09-30
SYNOPSIS:Taken from a letter to a prison ministry donor, an exposition of our Prison Ministry philosophy and comprehensive update of our present status.
2015-09-30
SYNOPSIS:Taken from a letter to a prison ministry donor, an exposition of our Prison Ministry philosophy and comprehensive update of our present status.
2015-10-19
SYNOPSIS:Letter written to prepare a person for reception into the church. What is sin? Confession of sins is a skill.
SYNOPSIS:Letter written to prepare a person for reception into the church. What is sin? Confession of sins is a skill.
2015-11-07
2016-01-29
SYNOPSIS:Three letters written by prisoners about how the Orthodox prison ministry has influenced them. Also a letter to a prisoner that is mundane in details but illustrates and important point: most of our ministry is just communication (90% of life is just showing up, or in the case of prison ministry, writing and showing up)! We finish with some gleanings from the Holy Fathers, which are usually at the end of each letter.
SYNOPSIS:Three letters written by prisoners about how the Orthodox prison ministry has influenced them. Also a letter to a prisoner that is mundane in details but illustrates and important point: most of our ministry is just communication (90% of life is just showing up, or in the case of prison ministry, writing and showing up)! We finish with some gleanings from the Holy Fathers, which are usually at the end of each letter.
2016-01-29
SYNOPSIS:Three letters written by prisoners about how the Orthodox prison ministry has influenced them. Also a letter to a prisoner that is mundane in details but illustrates and important point: most of our ministry is just communication (90% of life is just showing up, or in the case of prison ministry, writing and showing up)! We finish with some gleanings from the Holy Fathers, which are usually at the end of each letter.
SYNOPSIS:Three letters written by prisoners about how the Orthodox prison ministry has influenced them. Also a letter to a prisoner that is mundane in details but illustrates and important point: most of our ministry is just communication (90% of life is just showing up, or in the case of prison ministry, writing and showing up)! We finish with some gleanings from the Holy Fathers, which are usually at the end of each letter.
2016-02-04
SYNOPSIS:Letter written to a prisoner about anger. There is a technique to control that works. Explaining it involves prayer, and dynamite.
SYNOPSIS:Letter written to a prisoner about anger. There is a technique to control that works. Explaining it involves prayer, and dynamite.
Purpose Of Great Lent
Prayer Of St Ephrem Explained Presanctified Liturgy
2016-03-03
Prayer Of St Ephrem Explained Presanctified Liturgy
2016-03-03
2016-04-04
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. Answering questions from his sister.
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. Answering questions from his sister.
2016-04-08
SYNOPSIS:A letter to a prisoner, addressing his personal concerns and also discussing how to battle bad thoughts and how meanness and abuse is a great temptation for a Christian. Also some catechetical questions.
SYNOPSIS:A letter to a prisoner, addressing his personal concerns and also discussing how to battle bad thoughts and how meanness and abuse is a great temptation for a Christian. Also some catechetical questions.
2016-04-18
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. Parable of the laborers in the Vineyard. No regrets in paradise.
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner: Why do we omit O Heavenly King from Pascha until Pentecost? What is the ministry of the Holy Spirit? The Symbol of Faith - Introduction. Introductory Questions about the symbol of Faith.
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. When a person feels abandoned by God. Parable of the Good - Samaritan. The sin of Onan and wishful thinking. Transfiguration - Human nature in the Midst of the Divine
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. What do we do when we feel separated, abandoned, lonely? Prayer for others, and for the dead. The Prayer of the Trisagion (Liturgy of Saint James), Prayer of St Silouan of Mount Athos:, To pray for someone more diligently:,Prayer is a painful and bloody struggle. By Elder Ephraim of Katounakia. ,Elder Ephraim of Katounakia on the Priesthood,Two Kinds of Gladness,stuff from Elder Porphyrios,From the Talmud,Misc memes with NB quotes.
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. Parable of the laborers in the Vineyard. No regrets in paradise.
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner: Why do we omit O Heavenly King from Pascha until Pentecost? What is the ministry of the Holy Spirit? The Symbol of Faith - Introduction. Introductory Questions about the symbol of Faith.
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. When a person feels abandoned by God. Parable of the Good - Samaritan. The sin of Onan and wishful thinking. Transfiguration - Human nature in the Midst of the Divine
SYNOPSIS:Letter to a prisoner. What do we do when we feel separated, abandoned, lonely? Prayer for others, and for the dead. The Prayer of the Trisagion (Liturgy of Saint James), Prayer of St Silouan of Mount Athos:, To pray for someone more diligently:,Prayer is a painful and bloody struggle. By Elder Ephraim of Katounakia. ,Elder Ephraim of Katounakia on the Priesthood,Two Kinds of Gladness,stuff from Elder Porphyrios,From the Talmud,Misc memes with NB quotes.
Homosexuality In Context
2016-09-29
2016-09-29
2016-09-29
SYNOPSIS:A little bit about complaining about our problems, and the ONLY way to stop doing it. Part of a letter to a prisoner.
SYNOPSIS:A little bit about complaining about our problems, and the ONLY way to stop doing it. Part of a letter to a prisoner.
Prison Visit Reports
2013-11-06
SYNOPSIS:I hope that you will be as edified as I was by this report about racism and prayer, from a conversation in a prison ministry visit. They give more than they get!
SYNOPSIS:I hope that you will be as edified as I was by this report about racism and prayer, from a conversation in a prison ministry visit. They give more than they get!
John 16:4 John 16:12
2013-11-09
SYNOPSIS:A jailhouse talk about what hinders prayer and remembrance, and the promise of our Lord that will comfort us. Prison is a lot like the world except more intense more potential for violence, and there are not many breaks. It is always noisy, there is drama all the time. Schedules are crazy and disorienting, and in addition, you have your own thoughts and a lot of time to have them. this is a difficult environment to pray and have remembrance of God. How?! If we do something for the love of God it will never be fruitless. We may not remember, but God always remembers, and will call things to our remembrance as we need them. Our Lord Jesus Christ gives us great consolation in the promise "These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them" (John 16:4) and "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." (John 16:12)
2013-11-09
SYNOPSIS:A jailhouse talk about what hinders prayer and remembrance, and the promise of our Lord that will comfort us. Prison is a lot like the world except more intense more potential for violence, and there are not many breaks. It is always noisy, there is drama all the time. Schedules are crazy and disorienting, and in addition, you have your own thoughts and a lot of time to have them. this is a difficult environment to pray and have remembrance of God. How?! If we do something for the love of God it will never be fruitless. We may not remember, but God always remembers, and will call things to our remembrance as we need them. Our Lord Jesus Christ gives us great consolation in the promise "These things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them" (John 16:4) and "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." (John 16:12)
2014-01-17
SYNOPSIS:I visited one of my prisons today, and as happens more often than not what I planned did not happen. Prison ministry is the answer to the prayer: "Lord, help me to be patient" Some interesting feedback from my guys. I may be traveling more. If you have prison ministry on your heart, we will need significantly more funding. Prison ministry is the answer to the prayer: "Lord, help me to be patient"
SYNOPSIS:I visited one of my prisons today, and as happens more often than not what I planned did not happen. Prison ministry is the answer to the prayer: "Lord, help me to be patient" Some interesting feedback from my guys. I may be traveling more. If you have prison ministry on your heart, we will need significantly more funding. Prison ministry is the answer to the prayer: "Lord, help me to be patient"
2014-04-23
2014-08-20
SYNOPSIS:Prison Visit Report:Teaching Day.
Transfiguration
Prayer on the eighth day
Saying "Christ is in our midst"
Kissing the priests hand
What is excommunication?
SYNOPSIS:Prison Visit Report:Teaching Day.
Transfiguration
Prayer on the eighth day
Saying "Christ is in our midst"
Kissing the priests hand
What is excommunication?
2014-09-24
SYNOPSIS:A Prison Visit report:Solitary confinement
Just show up
Biblical literacy
Keep it simple
SYNOPSIS:A Prison Visit report:Solitary confinement
Just show up
Biblical literacy
Keep it simple
2014-10-01
SYNOPSIS:Today I was unable to see my guys in the prison because of a last minute change that occurred AFTER I drove 2.5 hours to get there. I discuss a typical day in prison, and compare it to jumbo shrimp and Army intelligence. No matter, stuff still got done. The two principles of ministry, and life in general were obeyed. The most important and hardest thing anyway is prayer, and I discuss a rule for doing the Jesus prayer that almost everyone should follow. There is easy stuff, which we must do and it helps us do the hard stuff - intense and regular prayer.
SYNOPSIS:Today I was unable to see my guys in the prison because of a last minute change that occurred AFTER I drove 2.5 hours to get there. I discuss a typical day in prison, and compare it to jumbo shrimp and Army intelligence. No matter, stuff still got done. The two principles of ministry, and life in general were obeyed. The most important and hardest thing anyway is prayer, and I discuss a rule for doing the Jesus prayer that almost everyone should follow. There is easy stuff, which we must do and it helps us do the hard stuff - intense and regular prayer.
2014-10-08
SYNOPSIS:Prison Visit report, at the mouth of the Bosque river, in Waco. This was the best St Sergius day ever, because I celebrated liturgy in prison. The most important thing that happened was AFTER liturgy. Money cannot buy this! Those who minister *face to face* in prison will understand. Discussion of the parable about the new wine in old wineskins and the unjust judge. It all applies very much to prison life, which is a lot like regular life, except people live behind bars, and it is usually more physically dangerous. I even throw in a little singing of the song "Patches", because it is relevant!
SYNOPSIS:Prison Visit report, at the mouth of the Bosque river, in Waco. This was the best St Sergius day ever, because I celebrated liturgy in prison. The most important thing that happened was AFTER liturgy. Money cannot buy this! Those who minister *face to face* in prison will understand. Discussion of the parable about the new wine in old wineskins and the unjust judge. It all applies very much to prison life, which is a lot like regular life, except people live behind bars, and it is usually more physically dangerous. I even throw in a little singing of the song "Patches", because it is relevant!
2014-10-15
2014-10-22
SYNOPSIS:A short discussion of some of the subjects covered in a prison visit. Expect the unexpected. My plans went undone, but it was time well spent. We discussed, among other things: the name of God, tongues, psychics.
SYNOPSIS:A short discussion of some of the subjects covered in a prison visit. Expect the unexpected. My plans went undone, but it was time well spent. We discussed, among other things: the name of God, tongues, psychics.
2014-11-24
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel is a living thing in our hearts, so we should experience it much more in our life than in words in a bible. I read the Gospel today in a letter from a prisoner, and was glad. A summary of that important letter. Also about race relations in prison. I talk to people that would never talk to me outside of prison walls.
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel is a living thing in our hearts, so we should experience it much more in our life than in words in a bible. I read the Gospel today in a letter from a prisoner, and was glad. A summary of that important letter. Also about race relations in prison. I talk to people that would never talk to me outside of prison walls.
2014-12-03
SYNOPSIS:I served liturgy today in prison. Prison liturgies are different. I explain how. We read the Gospel about Mary and Martha and the woman in the crowd who cried out to Jesus and His answer, I explained why we read this for feasts of the Theotokos. Also why the name "Theotokos", and why we say " Most Holy Theotokos save us" It all makes sense! Also, talked about tradition, the story of the feast, how I got involved in prison ministry and the two most important things I want anybody to remember from my humble ministry. The second is always fight!
SYNOPSIS:I served liturgy today in prison. Prison liturgies are different. I explain how. We read the Gospel about Mary and Martha and the woman in the crowd who cried out to Jesus and His answer, I explained why we read this for feasts of the Theotokos. Also why the name "Theotokos", and why we say " Most Holy Theotokos save us" It all makes sense! Also, talked about tradition, the story of the feast, how I got involved in prison ministry and the two most important things I want anybody to remember from my humble ministry. The second is always fight!
2014-12-17
SYNOPSIS:Prison Visit Report. Teaching day. If you do not like to adapt to change, do not pray for this skill, or else God will put you into prison ministry! Discussion and teachning on Leviyticus, two kinds of God's laws, the three things I want everyone to know, murder vs killing, adultery vs fornication, can homosexuals come to church, is a suicide in Hell, how do deal wiuth eaknesses from habitual sins in our youth.
SYNOPSIS:Prison Visit Report. Teaching day. If you do not like to adapt to change, do not pray for this skill, or else God will put you into prison ministry! Discussion and teachning on Leviyticus, two kinds of God's laws, the three things I want everyone to know, murder vs killing, adultery vs fornication, can homosexuals come to church, is a suicide in Hell, how do deal wiuth eaknesses from habitual sins in our youth.
Romans 6:3
2015-01-22
SYNOPSIS:Report on a trip to the prison with 4 volunteers to baptize two men. Description of a typical day in prison ministry. Advice about who is qualified (and not qualified) for prison ministry. If you have fire in your belly, and you are adaptable to change, and you have fire in your belly, you are perfectly suited to prison ministry. If you are OCD, or like the expected to happen, you are not suited for prison ministry. About Romans 6, and what being baptized into "His death" is. About the unsymmetrical deaths. Explanation about the oil of gladness, and chrism, and the laying on of hands, and why we blow over the oil and anoint certain parts of the body. The slight crackling in the background is my fireplace. I am an amateur, in everything but nursing (since I get paid for that), so I decided to record in front of the fireplace, because the day was gloomy, and it was warm!
2015-01-22
SYNOPSIS:Report on a trip to the prison with 4 volunteers to baptize two men. Description of a typical day in prison ministry. Advice about who is qualified (and not qualified) for prison ministry. If you have fire in your belly, and you are adaptable to change, and you have fire in your belly, you are perfectly suited to prison ministry. If you are OCD, or like the expected to happen, you are not suited for prison ministry. About Romans 6, and what being baptized into "His death" is. About the unsymmetrical deaths. Explanation about the oil of gladness, and chrism, and the laying on of hands, and why we blow over the oil and anoint certain parts of the body. The slight crackling in the background is my fireplace. I am an amateur, in everything but nursing (since I get paid for that), so I decided to record in front of the fireplace, because the day was gloomy, and it was warm!
2015-02-25
SYNOPSIS:These thoughts were recorded while driving home from a prison visit (hence the road noise) in which Presanctified Liturgy was served, and I had a very edifying thought while standing before the altar.
My major task as a priest of God, akin to the holiest of the saints who are priests, is to be present with God and my flock in prayer, whether at home, in church, and especially before the altar. There is one thing needful for me to do as a priest - to pray. At the altar, a priest must wrap his arms around his flock, and pray that whatever they need, they would get. There are many skills that are very useful for a priest - calmness, organization, energy, preaching and counseling ability, but all is for naught if there is not frequent prayer, with presence, before God and his people.
Also some thoughts about how the priesthood, when bestowed upon a sinful man with limited abilities, causes his children and family to sacrifice a terrible amount. All that matters is presence, with God and those we love. The great consolation I have now is that even though I sacrificed presence with my family too much and cannot change history, I am intimately present with my family and flock with daily intercessory prayer. They can tell me, "It's ok dad", but it was not ok, and these words and my daily prayer are offered as an apology and restitution. The average person has no idea how great and terrible the priesthood is.
These thoughts were partially caused, I think , by my "taking stock" as I approach the 20th anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood, on the 2nd Sunday of Great Lent, 1995 (Mar 6/19).
SYNOPSIS:These thoughts were recorded while driving home from a prison visit (hence the road noise) in which Presanctified Liturgy was served, and I had a very edifying thought while standing before the altar.
My major task as a priest of God, akin to the holiest of the saints who are priests, is to be present with God and my flock in prayer, whether at home, in church, and especially before the altar. There is one thing needful for me to do as a priest - to pray. At the altar, a priest must wrap his arms around his flock, and pray that whatever they need, they would get. There are many skills that are very useful for a priest - calmness, organization, energy, preaching and counseling ability, but all is for naught if there is not frequent prayer, with presence, before God and his people.
Also some thoughts about how the priesthood, when bestowed upon a sinful man with limited abilities, causes his children and family to sacrifice a terrible amount. All that matters is presence, with God and those we love. The great consolation I have now is that even though I sacrificed presence with my family too much and cannot change history, I am intimately present with my family and flock with daily intercessory prayer. They can tell me, "It's ok dad", but it was not ok, and these words and my daily prayer are offered as an apology and restitution. The average person has no idea how great and terrible the priesthood is.
These thoughts were partially caused, I think , by my "taking stock" as I approach the 20th anniversary of my ordination to the priesthood, on the 2nd Sunday of Great Lent, 1995 (Mar 6/19).
2015-03-12
SYNOPSIS:Recap of a prison ministry visit. We discussed the Prayer of St Ephrem and the Hymn "Before Thy Cross" in detail, and also the story of the finding of the Precious Cross. An important discussion of three God-given and God-like attributes of the soul: knowledge, desire and will, or the incensive power of the soul. An explanation of why prisoners who are *not* in trouble get put in solitary. The Christian in prison ministry must have a good philosophy about prison work and be very adaptable. You cannot waste your time being upset about stuff, because you have work to do! To top is all off: a Chuck Norris joke!
SYNOPSIS:Recap of a prison ministry visit. We discussed the Prayer of St Ephrem and the Hymn "Before Thy Cross" in detail, and also the story of the finding of the Precious Cross. An important discussion of three God-given and God-like attributes of the soul: knowledge, desire and will, or the incensive power of the soul. An explanation of why prisoners who are *not* in trouble get put in solitary. The Christian in prison ministry must have a good philosophy about prison work and be very adaptable. You cannot waste your time being upset about stuff, because you have work to do! To top is all off: a Chuck Norris joke!
2015-03-25
SYNOPSIS:Description of a prison visit on the Eve of the singing of the entire Great Canon of Crete, with the reading of the Life of St Mary of Egypt. We sang part of the canon and read all of the life and had discussion. Also an account of an amazing miracle and 3 new catechumen wannabes. A short description of the following stichera from the Great Canon, Odes 1 and 2: 1.7. I have willfully incurred the guilt of Cain's murder, since by invigorating my flesh I am the murderer of my soul's awareness, and have warred against it by my evil deeds. (Genesis 4:8) 1.11. I confess to Thee, O Savior, the sins I have committed, and the wounds of my body and soul which murderous thoughts like robbers within have inflicted upon me. (Luke 10:30) 1.12. I have sinned, O Savior, yet I know that Thou art the Lover of men. Thou strikest compassionately and pitiest warmly. Thou seest me weeping and runnest towards me as the Father recalling the Prodigal. (Luke 15:20) 1.16. O Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of all, take from me the heavy yoke of sin, and in Thy compassion grant me tears of compunction (John 1:29) 2.4. A storm of passions besets me, O compassionate Lord. But stretch out Thy hand to me too, as to Peter. (Matthew 14:31) 2.10. All the demon-chiefs of the passions have plowed on my back, and long has their tyranny over me lasted. (Psalm 128:3) 2.21. I have buried with passions the beauty of the original image, O Savior. But seek and find it, like the lost coin. (Luke 15:8) 2.25. No tears, no repentance have I, no compunction. But as God, O Savior, grant me these. 2.34. O how I have emulated that old murderer Lamech! By my pleasure-loving cravings I have killed my soul as the man, my mind as the young man, and my body as my brother, like Cain the murderer. (Genesis 4:23)
SYNOPSIS:Description of a prison visit on the Eve of the singing of the entire Great Canon of Crete, with the reading of the Life of St Mary of Egypt. We sang part of the canon and read all of the life and had discussion. Also an account of an amazing miracle and 3 new catechumen wannabes. A short description of the following stichera from the Great Canon, Odes 1 and 2: 1.7. I have willfully incurred the guilt of Cain's murder, since by invigorating my flesh I am the murderer of my soul's awareness, and have warred against it by my evil deeds. (Genesis 4:8) 1.11. I confess to Thee, O Savior, the sins I have committed, and the wounds of my body and soul which murderous thoughts like robbers within have inflicted upon me. (Luke 10:30) 1.12. I have sinned, O Savior, yet I know that Thou art the Lover of men. Thou strikest compassionately and pitiest warmly. Thou seest me weeping and runnest towards me as the Father recalling the Prodigal. (Luke 15:20) 1.16. O Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of all, take from me the heavy yoke of sin, and in Thy compassion grant me tears of compunction (John 1:29) 2.4. A storm of passions besets me, O compassionate Lord. But stretch out Thy hand to me too, as to Peter. (Matthew 14:31) 2.10. All the demon-chiefs of the passions have plowed on my back, and long has their tyranny over me lasted. (Psalm 128:3) 2.21. I have buried with passions the beauty of the original image, O Savior. But seek and find it, like the lost coin. (Luke 15:8) 2.25. No tears, no repentance have I, no compunction. But as God, O Savior, grant me these. 2.34. O how I have emulated that old murderer Lamech! By my pleasure-loving cravings I have killed my soul as the man, my mind as the young man, and my body as my brother, like Cain the murderer. (Genesis 4:23)
2015-06-24
SYNOPSIS:Summary of teaching at a prison visit.
How to sing the Akathist
Why do we sing A cappella and not with instruments.
Emotion in prayer.
How is our liturgical prayer better for the soul?
How to chant
Should we pray for a person when we are angry?
The two most important things I want to teach: to live according to our purpose, and to pray.
SYNOPSIS:Summary of teaching at a prison visit.
How to sing the Akathist
Why do we sing A cappella and not with instruments.
Emotion in prayer.
How is our liturgical prayer better for the soul?
How to chant
Should we pray for a person when we are angry?
The two most important things I want to teach: to live according to our purpose, and to pray.
Prison Visit Report
2015-11-18
2015-11-18
How Has Orthodox Prison Ministry Affected Me
2015-12-04-letter-from-inmate
2015-12-04-letter-from-inmate
Etc
2014-02-19
SYNOPSIS:Prison Ministry talk, given at the OCA Diocese of the South Pastoral Assembly, with the 4 things you need to know about prison ministry, then a lot of other stuff - advice, mistakes, and stories. 36 minutes of rompin stompin prison ministry talkin! I hope it will inspire you to get involved, with your time, or almsgiving. The ministry is expensive, because Texas is a big state
FILES: 32 HTML files, 34 HTML files, 31 Adobe PDF files, 2 RTF files, 54 Word DOC files, 63 mp3 files
SYNOPSIS:Prison Ministry talk, given at the OCA Diocese of the South Pastoral Assembly, with the 4 things you need to know about prison ministry, then a lot of other stuff - advice, mistakes, and stories. 36 minutes of rompin stompin prison ministry talkin! I hope it will inspire you to get involved, with your time, or almsgiving. The ministry is expensive, because Texas is a big state
FILES: 32 HTML files, 34 HTML files, 31 Adobe PDF files, 2 RTF files, 54 Word DOC files, 63 mp3 files
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