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Sundays after Pentecost
Sunday of Pentecost
1st Sunday after Pentecost
2nd Sunday after Pentecost
3rd Sunday after Pentecost
4th Sunday after Pentecost
5th Sunday after Pentecost
6th Sunday after Pentecost
7th Sunday after Pentecost
8th Sunday after Pentecost
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10th Sunday of Pentecost
11th Sunday of Pentecost
12th Sunday of Pentecost
13th Sunday of Pentecost
14th Sunday of Pentecost
15th Sunday of Pentecost
16th Sunday of Pentecost
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19th Sunday of Pentecost
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26th Sunday after Pentecost
27th Sunday after Pentecost
28th Sunday after Pentecost
29th Sunday after Pentecost
30th Sunday of Pentecost
31st Sunday after Pentecost
35th Sunday after Pentecost
36th Sunday after Pentecost
Weekday Readings
Feasts of the Savior, Nativity
Feasts of the Savior, Theophany
Feasts of the Savior, Transfiguration
Feasts of the Savior, Exaltation of the Cross
Feasts of the Theotokos
Feasts of the Saints
June 29
July 04
July 13
August 29
July 21
June 24
June 29
August 01
August 29
September 23
September 26
December 06
August 20
November 16
January 22
March 09
Sundays of Pascha
Pascha
Thomas Sunday
Myrhhbearing Women
The Paralytic
The Samaritan Woman
The Blind Man
Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
Weekday Readings during Paschaltide
Weeks before Great Lent
Sundays before Great Lent
Sunday of Zacchaeus
Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
Sunday of the Prodigal Son
Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare)
Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheesefare)
Great Lent
First Sunday of Great Lent
Second Sunday of Great Lent
Third Sunday of Great Lent
Fourth Sunday of Great Lent
Fifth Sunday of Great Lent
Lazarus Saturday
Palm Sunday
Holy Week
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Crowning
Matins Gospels
Misc
Living Water:Commentary on Orthodox Services
Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos
The Psalter
Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas
Sundays after Pentecost
Sunday of Pentecost
- Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Their sound hath gone forth into all the world; how do we hear it?
Acts 2:1-11
2000
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Only those who thirst will drink the living water.
Acts 2:1-11 John 7:37-52: 8:12
2001
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By Fr David Moser
2002
- Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
"Out of His belly shall flow rivers of living water." Why the belly?
John 7:37-52: 8:12
2004
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If any man thirst...
Three important things.
John 7:37-52: 8:12
2008
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mp3 Video of this homily:
Part 1 Part 2SYNOPSIS:There are three very important things that are said in the gospel today. They’re right in a row. One is basically a question. The other is a command or actually, a suggestion, and the other is the result. We are celebrating today Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples, the apostles and all the rest of the believers up to and including us - the Holy Spirit Who enlightens us, Who shows us the way of life, Who speaks to us in groanings that cannot be uttered. He tells us the things of God, the things of Christ; He enlightens us. But none of this, none of this will happen unless first we consider this very, very important question. And we must answer. When you answer a question, a Christian question, it’s not something that you say once. It’s something that you answer again and again and again...- Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The ministry of the Holy Spirit and the most important word.
John 20:19-23 Acts 2:1-11
2010
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Exegesis of the Parables at Vespers for Pentecost
Numbers 11:16-17, 24-29 : Joel 2:23-32 : Ezekiel 36:24-28
2011
SYNOPSIS:The "Parables" for an important commemoration are read on the eve of the feast, and are usually from the OT, and they always elucidate the meaning of the feast in some way. We look at the 3 OT readings for Pentecost Vespers, which, among other things, describe the ministry of the Holy Spirit, the calling of the Gentiles, the promise of the sending of the Holy Spirit to all Christians, and a superb description of the human condition and how the Holy Spirit helps heal it. This last point may be the most important one, because of we do not recognize our need, we will not do everything in our power to have the Holy Spirit abide in us.
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
O Heavenly King
2011
You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
You TubeSYNOPSIS:The giving of the Holy Spirit is the last big piece of our salvation. The Lord Jesus Christ became incarnate, taking on and changing our nature, teaching by word and example, and was crucified, buried and rose from the dead, enabling our flesh to defeat death. Then after 40 days He ascended, showing us that our human flesh could be with God in eternity. Then according to the promise, the Holy Spirit was given, without which our salvation would ot be possible. We look at the ministry of the Holy Sprit by explaining "O Heavenly King", and the various names and symbols for the Holy Sprit. The "take home" message is that in order to have the Holy Spirit abide in us, since He is the Spirit of Truth, we must live according to the truth. This entails much more that only not telling a lie!- "I will give you a new heart, and put a new spirit within you" - learning to read the heart and discriminate between the old and new ways. (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 2:-11 Ezekiel 36:24-28
2012
SYNOPSIS:The readings for Divine Liturgy on Pentecost give the story of Pentecost and our Lord '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)
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
SYNOPSIS:The readings for Divine Liturgy on Pentecost give the story of Pentecost and our Lord '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.
1st Sunday after Pentecost
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Sunday Of All Saints
2000
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Sunday Of All Saints
2003
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday Of All Saints
2004
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday of All Saints
The answer to every question.
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30
2008
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Everyone is called to be a Saint. How do you become a Saint? Purpose, Integrity, Courage. How do we properly read the Scriptures?
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30 Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2010
- 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
SYNOPSIS:It is apropos to celebrate All Saints on the Sunday after Pentecost, because with the coming of the Holy Spirit, coupled with all the effects of the incarnation, we have the ability to become holy - in fact we are commanded to become holy ("saint" means "holy one"). The readings today focus on how we can become holy. We must have true, living faith - we discuss what faith is (it is not mere belief in something!), and confess the Lord Jesus Christ before men (we discuss what "confession" is - it is not just what we say, but also what we do and who we are - and it is especially difficult in our day, because the spirit of the age permeates and pollutes everything). We also discuss what it means to "take up our cross", and "run with patience the race that is set before us".
- 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
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The "parables" of Vespers are OT or sometimes, NT readings, which elucidate the meaning of the feast. Since this is the Sunday of All Saints, these 3 OT readings describe sanctity - holiness (the word "Saint" means "holy one"). Saints, which we are also called to be, are witnesses who are misunderstood by the world of sinners, and their virtues are described, much like the apostle Paul described virtues in the passage in Ephesians which described the armor of faith (Ephesians 6:13-17) - 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday Of All Saints
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30 Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2012
SYNOPSIS:We are ALL called to be Saints (holy). This is the purpose of Christianity and the church - to guide people towards sanctity and holiness - to become Saints. The scriptures read today are an instruction manual in how to become a saint. It boils down to priorities, the courage to make the effort to hold to them, even when it is difficult (confession) and patience.
2nd Sunday after Pentecost
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
All Saints Of Russia
All Christians must leave their nets.
1999
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All Saints Of Russia
2000
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
"He went up into a mountain" What is your goal in life? What is a Saint? What is faith? Morality.
Matthew 4:18-23 Matthew 4:25-5:12
2001
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2003
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2004
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
All Saints of Russia
You are not alone!
Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2008
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
All Saints Of Russia
3 Necessary Things
Matthew 4:18-23, Matthew 4:25-5:12 The Calling Of The Apostles Andrew And Peter, James And John And The Beatitudes
2010
SYNOPSIS:This Sunday's readings are continuous, near the beginning of Matthew. They should be read as a whole and contain important instructions in three things that are absolutely necessary to be saved. We must decide to follow Christ, leave our nets, and climb to top of the Mountain, (the only place) where Christ is. Without simple resolutions on our part, we cannot ever understand the truth about the God-man, Jesus Christ.
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
A good beginning
We all must leave our nets or we will never come close to fulfilling the beatititudes.
Matthew 4:18-23
2011
SYNOPSIS:On this day, commemorating All Saints of Russia on the 2nd Sunday after Pentecost, we read the beatitudes, and the first Gospel tells us what we MUST do it we are to have any chance whatsoever to fulfil the beatitudes (and we are called to do this!). The calling of the apostles Peter ans Andrew and James and John is recounted. The Gospel is short, but very specific: both pairs left their nets, that is, left everything, and followed Jesus. We must have this sort of dedicated beginning in order to endure to the end. It gets hard in the middle, and if we do not begin with dedication, and constantly remember our original dedication, we will never make it to salvation. What does "leaving their nets" mean for us and how can this resolute act help us?
- 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
3rd Sunday after Pentecost
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The Light of the Body is the Eye. What is faith?
Romans 5:1-10 Matthew 6:22-33
2002
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2003
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2004
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The light of the body is the eye.
Matthew 6:22-33
2008
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Patience and the eye of the soul.
Matthew 6:22-33, Romans 5:1-10, Rom 8:28-39, Rom 8:28-39
2009
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Answer All The Questions
Matthew 6:22-33
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Scripture is full of questions, commands, warnings, promises, and consequences for actions. All of these, every single one of them, applies to us. You must read the Scripture and answer the questions and listen to the commands and heed the warnings and realize they are for you. Here is one: the Lord says: Is not life more than meat and the body more than raiment?” That question is a very important one to answer, and it’s one that actually is answered hundreds of times every day by every person, whether they are Christian or not, whether or not they believe in God. And with it is the question that follows: “And why do you take thought for your clothing?” None of this makes any sense to anyone unless we answer this first question well. This question can be also stated: What is life all about? ... - 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
How To Discern Light And Darkness In The Eye Of The Soul
Matthew 6:22-33
2011
SYNOPSIS:Today we learn about desire, and what shapes our desires. Just as the light of the body is the eye, the soul also has an eye that enlightens it. Our physical eyes can easily discern light and darkness, but the eye of the soul must be trained to do this, because without training. The eye of the soul will not know light from darkness. How do we train the eye of the soul?
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Matthew 6:22-33
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Lord never gives us a command that He does not explain and teach how to fulfill. In this selection, He first teaches us how to fulfill the command by teaching about the eye, and desire, and then progresses to rebuke our thoughts and anxieties. These things are obviously related! They both tie in to HOW to fulfill the command "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness".
4th Sunday after Pentecost
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
2003
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
How we think matters
Romans 6:18-23
2008
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"Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness". The faith of the Centurion with the sick servant.
The Christian definition of freedom, and how to obtain it, and concerning freedom and slavery, as described by the Epistle of St Paul and the faith of the Centurion with the sick servant.
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Epistle and Gospel today form the basis for the Christian definition of freedom, and the path to obtain it. This is not the definition that the world gives for freedom; their understanding is actually slavery to sin. St Paul teaches and the actions of the centurion with the sick servant confirm that true freedom can only be obtained by considering oneself to be a slave of righteousness. Those who make progress in life understand this principle. We can either be slaves of evil or righteousness. True freedom in the Christian sense is the ability to always do good and be good, and this freedom, can only be obtained by freely, of one's own will considering oneself to be a slave of righteousness.- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
"Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness."
Freedom and slavery explained by the Apostle Paul and the Centurion
Romans 6:18-23 : Matthew 8:5-13
2011
SYNOPSIS:We must understand what happened in baptism and what we are able to do and MUST do because of it. In finishing his classic treatise on baptism, in Romans Chapter 6, St Paul explains what true freedom is and what good and bad slavery is. There are two kinds of freedom and two kinds of slavery. We must be free regarding sin, but slaves to righteousness. This cannot be emphasized enough in our life, and must become a kind of mnemonic, to guide us in all of our decisions. The actions of the Centurion perfectly illustrate the proper kind of freedom and slavery to possess.
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Matthew 8:5-13
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Lord commended the faith of the centurion who had a sick servant. We must live our life the way he lived his, or we will not have faith. The centurion teaches us that faith will not exist without profound humility and obedience, and wonder of wonders, the more humble we become, the more bold and confident we will be in prayer. If you lack faith, attention or assurance in prayer, or God in any ways feels distant to you, you absolutely, positively must learn to have the faith of the centurion.
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Romans 6:18-23
2012
SYNOPSIS:Romans Chapter Six is one of the most important chapters of the New Testament. It teaches just about everything that is important: about the effect of the incarnation, baptism, the purpose of life and how to accomplish it, and also something that is very important: how to think about sin. To sin, pure and simple, is to become a slave to unrighteousness, and the end of such things is death. We must learn to consider ourselves slaves to righteousness. It is one ... or the other. How can we learn to think AND act in this way?
5th Sunday after Pentecost
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- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Healing of the Gergesenes demoniacs
Every occurence in our life is a meeting with Christ.
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2008
- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Gergesenes Demoniacs
We all must answer the question: 'What have we to do with Thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?'
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2009
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Gergesenes Demoniacs
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2010
SYNOPSIS:The reaction of the people of the Gergesenes to their encounter with Christ is a textbook example of how to kill the conscience. We would do well to recognize everything about this great tragedy, and be honest enough within ourselves to see how we often act like the people of the Gergesenes. Various ways to root out the passions shown by these people, which are common in our own lives, are discussed.
- "What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?" & "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?" - Questions that must be answered. (mp3 format)
Matthew 8:28-9-1 : Romans 8:28-39
2011
SYNOPSIS:This Sunday the 1st Gospel reading was about the Healing of the Demoniac of the Gergesenes, and the 2nd Epistle, for the Royal Martyrs of Russia, from Romans. A general principle of scriptural exegesis is that we must answer all questions! St Paul asks: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?" and then gives a long list of things that will not separate us - tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, or the sword. The demons who inhabited the man of the Gergesenes also asked a question :"What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?", and in so doing, together with the people of the Gergesenes, provided a terrible "answer" to Paul's question. Their reaction showed that how we react to Jesus is the only thing that can separate us from the love of Christ. These questions are of critical importance, and apply to us daily, moment by moment, whether we acknowledge them or not.
- 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
SYNOPSIS:The exorcism of the Gergesenes demoniacs is an incredible story, with lots of bizarre occurrences: demons confessing Jesus as God and begging Him for mercy, pigs committing mass suicide in the sea, and an entire town coming out to meet Jesus after the miracle. None of this is the most important thing. The demon 's question is what you must not miss; it is a question being asked of you every day: "What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?". We must learn to recognize and answer the questions Scripture asks of us. This passage teaches us, what not to answer in the reactions of the townspeople. They are among the most tragic people in the New Testament, because they went to Hell quietly. Before we are too hasty in our judgment of them, let us compare ourselves to their actions.
6th Sunday after Pentecost
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing of the paralytic.
How can a paralytic show faith?
Matthew 9:1-8
2004
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing of the paralytic.
The inner life.
Matthew 9:1-8
2009
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Paralytic
A Promise And Rebuke Regarding Faith
Matthew 9:1-8
2010
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the paralytic shows that God hears the prayers of those who have faith. This is both a promise and a rebuke for us. We are responsible before God to have faith so that our prayers for our loved ones are effective. How do we gain more faith?
- 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
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Let Love Be Without Dissimulation
A Reason For All The Rules
Romans 12:6-14
2012
SYNOPSIS:St Paul can be hard to read because his theology is so dense. There is a common pattern to his writings however; he presents his theological arguments, and then proceeds to tell us the "rules". We are in a non-dogmatic age, where there is only one rule - one cannot believe, much less proclaim that there are rules! the Christian life is not this way! Our rules are based on our theology, and are summarized by love. In this selection, St Paul gives a lot of rules, and they are summed up by his admonition: "Let love be without dissimulation." He gives us a reason for following moral rules just preceding this selection: " I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.".
7th Sunday after Pentecost
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
"According to your faith, be it unto you"
Matthew 9:27-35, Romans 15:1-7
2008
SYNOPSIS:The faith of the two blind man Jesus healed and of the men who brought the mute demoniac for healing demonstrate two aspects of faith. The demoniac's muteness shows lack of faith; we cannot proclaim that which we do not know and experience, and the Holy Spirit will not reside where Evil is. We are a composite of all of these examples. How do we gain faith, so that the Lord will say to us "According to your faith, be it unto you"? The answer is contained in the Epistle for today: "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves."
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Likeminded with unbelievers?
Romans 15:1-7 Matthew 9:27-35
2009
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.
The only path to happiness.
Romans 15:1-7
2010
- "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves". The Apostle explains how to become strong. (mp3 format)
Romans 15:1-7
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Apostle Paul usually gives detailed theological arguments in the beginning of his epistles and then admonitions and commands based on these truths. Today he explains immediately why "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves". If we do not understand his lesson we have no idea what Christianity really is. We will see the simple reason for Christian morality.
- "According to your faith be it unto you." The two blind men teach us how to increase our faith. (mp3 format)
Matthew 9:27-35
2012
SYNOPSIS:Before Jesus healed the two blind men who had cried out to him MANY times (with the rudiments of the Jesus prayer), He said to them: "According to your faith be it unto you". Remember, since we read the scripture in order to be taught something about ourselves, we MUST apply this saying to ourselves - does it fit us? If we find ourselves to be lacking in faith, or perhaps the fruit of faith - results in things that matter in our lives, then we must find a way to increase our faith. It is reasonable to ask the Lord for this, since the apostles themselves also asked him to increase their faith. Jesus commended several people concerning their faith - including the centurion Syrophenician woman of Canaan, and the woman "who was a sinner". Each adds to the picture of how we can increase our faith. We look at the example of the two blind men, with humility, recognizing that we have weak faith and need to learn from their example.
8th Sunday after Pentecost
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Feeding The 5000 And St Elijah
1998
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2002
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2004
- 8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Feeding of the Five Thousand
What are we to do in our "desert place"?
Matthew 14:14-22
2008
Video of this homily- 8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Feeding The Five Thousand, Prophet Elijah
You Give Them To Eat
Matthew 14:14-22 James 5:10-20
2009
SYNOPSIS:The Feeding of the 5000 is not only the story of a miracle, it is a command to all Christians. Lest we think we are incapable of 'giving them to eat', we have the example of the holy Prophet Elijah, who was a man 'subject to like passions as we are'.
- 8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Feeding Of The 5000
A promise, a command and instructions in how to accomplish the command.
Matthew 14:14-22
2010
- 8th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The feeding of the five thousand.
Simple truth and layers of truth: Compassion, Trust, Giving thanks and the Apostolic Church
Matthew 14:14-22
2011
SYNOPSIS:The Feeding of the Five Thousand has many truths that we must learn. Some are apparently obvious, but still we should take note of them, since we do not do them enough: We must cultivate compassion for everyone, give thanks for all things, and trust our Lord Jesus Christ in all things and in all circumstances. The powerful truths of this miracle can be thought of as deeper layers. They are not immediately apparent from a surface interpretation of the text. Let us look especially at these truths as the Lord teaches us about true compassion, and trust in all circumstances. Another layer of truth in this event regarding the ministry of the twelve apostles, and the government of the apostolic church.
- "They need not depart; give ye them to eat." The promise, command and privilege given in the feeding of the five thousand. (mp3 format)
Matthew 14:14-22
2012
SYNOPSIS:The feeding of the five thousand was a unique miracle, in that our Lord commanded his disciples to participate in it, by telling them: "Give ye them to eat." This is VERY significant. It is both a promise, a command and a privilege that EVERY Christian must obey EVERY day. Obeying this command is the ONLY way to happiness, as it is part of the fulfillment of the Great Commandment, as the fulfilling of that command is accomplished by actively fulfilling the second commandment. The miracle shows us that no matter what our circumstances are, "giving them to eat " will always be aided by God, and will result in an abundance. We may not feel this abundance until later, but is certainly will accumulate if we obey the command of the Lord to think of others first before ourselves.
9th Sunday after Pentecost
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
We are labourers together with God
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
0001
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Walking On The Water
1998
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
2001
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Jesus walks on the water.
Will we recognize Christ when He comes to us in the middle of the night?
Matthew 14:22-34
2008
Also in Format:
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mp3 You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
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VeohSYNOPSIS:The Lord coming to the disciples in dark of night, after they had struggled for hours with dangerous wind and rain describes many times in our life. Although the disciples were without Christ in body during their struggle, they were not really alone, as He was praying and aware of their needs. So it is with us. When the Lord comes to us in the midst of our struggles, do we recognize him, or are we of "little faith"?- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Walking On The Water
A parable of our own lives.
Matthew 14:22-34
2009
Also in Format:
Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:The miracle of Jesus walking on the water in the midst of a storm is not only a recounting of a historical event, but also, mystically,s a description of many events in our lives. - 9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
We are labourers together with God
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2010
SYNOPSIS:Exposition of todays's epistle reading. The Apostle Paul tells us that we are laboourers together with God. What is the nature of this labor? How do we build upon the foundation that The Apostle mentions with precious materials?
- Jesus walks on the water and the disciples are afraid. WHY? (mp3 format)
Matthew 14:22-34
2012
SYNOPSIS:When Jesus walked on the water to join the disciples in their boat, the Gospel mentioned that they were afraid - twice. When He approached, they thought they saw a spirit and were afraid, and of course, Peter became afraid when he saw the waves and felt the wind, when he was attempting to walk on the waves to Jesus. They *should not* have been afraid! The Lord had just performed a stupendous miracle, and they should have known that He would always protect them. Why were they afraid? It was for the same reasons that we are afraid, or suffer from the common modern version of fear - anxiety.
10th Sunday of Pentecost
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1997
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1998
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
2000
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Lunatic Son
2002
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
The Healing of the Demoniac Boy
The "Golden Chain" connecting faith and prayer and fasting.
Matthew 17:14-23
2008
Also in Format:
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Revver,
AOL Video,
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Blip.tv and
VeohSYNOPSIS:The story of the healing of the demoniac boy illustrates two kinds of belief (faith) and two kinds of unbelief. If we want to have true and saving belief we must recognize the relationship between faith and prayer and fasting (and also understand that "fasting" involves much more than just abstaining from certain kinds of food).- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Why could we not cast him out?
Galations 5:22-26 Matthew 17:14-23 John 17:1-13
2010
Also in Format:
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mp3 - 10th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Exorcism of the demoniac son.
A very common question and the 2 ways to understand the answer.
Matthew 17:14-23
2011
SYNOPSIS:The story of the exorcism of the lunatic son contains a very important question that all of us ask everyday - "Why?" We ask this question consciously and unconsciously and even dissatisfaction, confusion and ignorance are forms of this question. The solution is given in two parts. Firstly, our Lord tells us but we asked this question because of our unbelief, and the solution to this unbelief is given; prayer and fasting, and, very importantly, our admission of our unbelief and prayer that the Lord will help us to believe.
- Exegesis of 1 Corinthians 4:9-16, esp "Being defamed, we intreat:" & " Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me" (mp3 format)
1 Corinthians 4:9-16
2012
SYNOPSIS:The words of St Paul regarding Apostles MUST also apply to us! If we want honor, apparent strength or wisdom, etc, we will not be followers of Christ. If we obey the apostle and are followers of him (we must understand this - we must also live in such a way that people follow us!), we will understand true prayer and virtue in all circumstances.
- "This kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.quot; There is no faith without labor. (mp3 format)
The exorcism of the lunatic son.
Matthew 17:14-23
2012
SYNOPSIS:The exorcism of the lunatic son teaches us how to gain faith. There is no faith, no salvation without labor. We must understand prayer and fasting in this context. We also see that our sins CAN and DO harm others.
11th Sunday of Pentecost
12th Sunday of Pentecost
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Rich Young Ruler Mat 19 16 26
1999
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
2001
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Question Of The Young Rich Man
2002
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
The Rich Young Ruler
The main points are about hidden passions, ignorance about God and self, and yes, money too.
Matthew 19:16-26
2009
Also in Format:
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Veoh- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Grace and Labor
The Orthodox view. Important to understand in our age of "salvation without labor"
1 Corinthians 15-1-11
2010
Also in Format:
Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:Excerpts from the homily:
Today in both the Epistle and the Gospel that are appointed for today, the 12th Sunday, we hear about grace and about labor...
So this is the Gospel: That Jesus Christ is risen from the dead and, because He is the God-man and in His humanity rose from the dead, we can rise from the dead.
Now, how does this occur? Just knowing about the Resurrection does not make the Gospel effectual in your life.
St Paul said: "I am the least of the Apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the Church of God. But by the grace of God, I am what I am. And His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain, but I labored more abundantly then they all."
Here we see how the Gospel is fulfilled in a man. What a powerful statement, to say by the grace of God I am what I am. It is true. By God?s grace we do everything. Anything that we do that is good is by God?s grace helping us. We breathe by His grace. We know Him by His grace. We have holy thoughts and feelings in our hearts by His grace. Everything is by His grace.
But inherent in his statement is not just: By His grace I am what I am right now; but, "I will become what I should be by His grace."
It is good for a Christian to notice, to know what he is now; what is good about you, what is not good about you; what needs to be improved. It is good to know these things. But in knowing these things you should also have the sure confidence that you will become what you should be.
But this perfection comes through labor. Grace with labor. Grace alone does not cause a man to be saved.
I've told you before, many times; the greatest heresy of all is that salvation can be had without labor, that believing can be done without labor. To believe is also to do. And so Saint Paul says that he labored and not in vain or the grace bestowed upon him was not in vain because he labored, he says, more abundantly then they all. ...- 12th Sunday of 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 1 5:1-11
2011
13th Sunday of Pentecost
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
The Parable Of The Vineyard
1998
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The Parable Of The Vineyard
2002
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Vineyard
Anything about the Jews is about us too.
Matthew 21:33-42
2009
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable of the Vineyard
We must bear fruit
Matthew 21:33-42
2010
Also in Format:
mp3 SYNOPSIS:All parables have multiple meanings. Many, sucb as the one about the vineyard, had an immediate meaning intended for the original audience, and also contain instruction for all Christians. The immediate meaning and symbolism of the parable is discussed, then the most important "take home" point: we must bear fruit. - Parable of the Vineyard: the outer (Jewish) and inner (Christian) meanings and symbolism: we must bear fruit! (mp3 format)
Matthew 21:33-42
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Vineyard, like most parable, has an immediate, outer meaning, and many layers of inner meaning. We compare all the symbolism in the parable, giving the immediate (Jewish) meaning, and The Christian meaning, and then talk about the main inner point of the parable: we must bear fruit - we are commanded to!
14th Sunday of Pentecost
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
Matthew 22:1-14
2009
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
It Is Always About Morality
Matthew 22:1-14
2010
You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms: SYNOPSIS:The parable about the wedding feast has many layers of complex theology, and all of it is important, but as in any parable, there is something that is the most important. This is a parable about how to live the (only) way that leads to eternal life.
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
The Wedding Garment Is Christ
Matthew 22:1-14
2011
- Parable of the Wedding Feast & the earnest of the Spirit, & also how/when to pray for people during the Divine Liturgy. (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
Abortion and praying for people in the Liturgy
Matthew 22:1-14, 2Corinthians 1:21
2012
SYNOPSIS:The homily begins with a request to pray for an Orthodox woman who is planning to have an abortion. The most important place in the liturgy to offer our heartfelt prayers to God for others is given, and it is explained that among other things, the earnest of the spirit, which St Paul mentions in his epistle should motivate us for our brethren who are suffering or in danger. After a little bit about how Orthodox should view abortion, this " earnest" and the "tie in" to the parable of the wedding feast are explained, and we see how praying for others and struggling for good MUST be the result of our entry into the wedding feast, which has already occurred, and is occurring.
15th Sunday of Pentecost
- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Sun After Exaltation
2000
- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
What Is Christianity
Earthen Vessels
2 Corinthians 4-6-15
2002
Also in Format:
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mp3 - 15th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation Of The Holy Cross
2 Corinthians 4:6-15, Galatians 2:16-20, Mark 8:34-9:1
2008
- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22-35-46
2010
- "we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us." Understand yourself, and repentance and change will be unhindered. (mp3 format)
2 Corinthians 4:6-15
2012
SYNOPSIS:It is crucial that we apply the Scripture we read *personally*. St Paul's writings especially have important doctrinal teachings, but they always have personal application that we must not miss. We hone in on a critical "pointer" the Apostle gives regarding our nature and sin. We must takes his words to heart, and "own" them, so that we do not waste time with sadness, grief, guilt, surprise and shame, and always have productive repentance for our sins.
- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Be Not Afraid Of Them That Kill The Body
The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22:35-46, Luke 12:2-12
2012
16th Sunday of Pentecost
17th Sunday of Pentecost
18th Sunday of Pentecost
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
1997
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Miraculous Draught Of Fish
2000
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The First Great Catch Of Fish
2002
- 18th Sunday of 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
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The great catch of fish at lake Genesaret
Words to live by: 'Nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.'
Luke 5:1-11
2008
You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
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Veoh- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Great Catch Of Fish
The Greatest Miracle Was Not The Fish
Luke 5:1-11
2009
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The First Great Catch Of Fish
We are not saved by works of the law, but by being with Christ. The second great catch of fish illustrates this.
Luke 5-1-11, Galatians 1:11-19
2010
SYNOPSIS:The first Great catch of fish, read in context with the 2nd great catch (which occurred three years later, 8 days after the resurrection) is truly the "Gospel" - the "Good News", because it is a promise to us that we can change and truly become holy - all we need do is be with Jesus Christ throughout our life. We compare the two great catches, and explore what it means to be with Christ. The Epistle reading is from Galatians, them overall theme of which is that we cannot be saved bu . We are not saved by works, but we cannot be saved unless we stay with Christ throughout our life - we examine what this means.
- "Launch out into the deep" - the first great catch of fish teaches about the Jesus prayer! (mp3 format)
Luke 5:1-11
2012
SYNOPSIS:When Jesus commanded Peter to "Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught;", He was giving a principle, by which, and only by which we will stand in the presence of God, even in this life. This principle is all over the Scriptures. It involves patience, courage, obedience and INTENSITY. Although prayer is not explicitly mentioned, it is also about prayer, and especially about the Jesus prayer. How and why must we "launch out into the deep"?
19th Sunday of Pentecost
20th Sunday of Pentecost
- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Resurrection Of The Son Of The Widow Of Nain
Being In The Way Of Christ
Luke 7-11-16
1996
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2002
- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Resurrection Of The Son Of The Widow Of Nain
2002
- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2004
- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The raising of the son of the widow of Nain.
We cannot understand this story unless we weep.
Luke 7:11-16
2008
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Widow of Nain.
This is our life in microcosm.
Luke 7:11-16
2009
Also in Format:
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mp3 - 20th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Widow Of Nain
Oil And Wine
Galatians 6:11-18 Luke 7:11-16
2010
- Parable! of the Resurrection of the Son of the Widow of Nain. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Resurrection of the son of the widow of Nain, like most miracles in the NT, must be read as a parable to receive the full benefit of its instruction. This miracle is our life in microcosm. We are both the woman and the boy in the "parable", and the words "Weep Not" do not fully apply to us now, but they will. In our life we must weep, with purpose and hope, and also "stand still", and only if we do this, will we receive the much anticipated words of our Savior, "weep Not". Apologies for the sound quality. The homily was inadvertently recorded at too low a volume, and the audio was massaged by an incompetent sound engineer!
21st Sunday after Pentecost
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Sower
Luke 8-5-15-Galatians 2-16-20
1996
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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)
- 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
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Christian Justification
Galatians 2:16-20
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Galatians was written to a group of Gentiles that had been infected with Judiazing teachings; they had been taught that they were required to fulfil the rituals of the Jewish law (circumcision, washings, dietary laws, etc) to be saved. All of Galatians refutes this heresy, and teaches why Christians must be moral. This passage particularly highlights the differences between Jewish justification (which was only an external declaration) and Christian Justification, which is also a declaration, but also involves the inner man becoming righteous - that is, the obliteration of sin (not just forgiveness), and eventual perfection. Why should we care about the difference between the Jewish view and the Christian reality? Because almost everyone, to a greater or lesser degree often lives and thinks as the Jews did. - 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable Of The Sower
Grace,faith,works
Ephesians 2:4-10,Luke 8:5-15
2010
Also in Format:
mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Epistle and Gospel selections today, which are rarely read together, both proclaim the Gospel - the "Good News" in both the same and different ways. Ephesians is the classic declaration of the Gospel,and the parable of the sower speaks in metaphor, but both declare that how the gospel is received by us and what we do with it determines whether or not we "bring forth fruit with patience", and be His workmanship ... unto good works".- "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." Why did the Lord say "patience"? (mp3 format)
Luke 8:5-15
2012
SYNOPSIS:In the parable of the sower, the Lord concludes: "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." Why did He specify patience as the necessary virtue, and not faith, hope, love, zeal, etc? We examine patience, and how it is the active aspect of faith, hope, love and many virtues. How can we increase our patience?
22nd Sunday after Pentecost
23rd Sunday after Pentecost
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Luke 8-26-39
1996
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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
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Do not miss any opportunity!
Ephesians 2:4-10, Luke 8:26-39
2008
- The Gospel proclaimed and its moral imperative: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works". Ephesians 2:4-10 (mp3 format)
Ephesians 2:4-10
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel is proclaimed succinctly in this classic and often misunderstood! passage from Ephesians. We go through it carefully, emphasizing that we must not only understand what Christ did for us, but also that this understanding places a moral obligation upon us. Every point made by the Apostle has a moral application to our daily lives, culminating in the significant, somewhat forgotten words (since they follow the famous and significant statement: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God") "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." This is important stuff! At the end of the homily, a pastoral exhortation regarding what we MUST expect when we attend the liturgy or any service (and how to learn to do this by degrees) and the MOST important prayer that a pastor must have in his heart when he celebrates any service.
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
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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
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
For he is our peace and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances.
She touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched.
Ephesians 2:14-22 Luke 8:41-56
2009
An exposition of Ephesians 2:14-22, and the healing of the woman with an issue of blood, which make the same important point.
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
He Is Our Peace
Ephesians 2:14-22
2010
Also in Format:
mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Gospel is exactly proclaimed in this passage from Ephesians. The entire passage is discussed, especially "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity...". What is peace accordig to the Gospel? What did Christ do so we can obtain it? What must we do? What two things are at enmity with each other? - 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
- Two kinds of faith; whatever faith we have the Lord will respond: Jairus and the woman with the issue of blood (mp3 format)
Luke 8:41-56
2012
SYNOPSIS:The number 12 appears twice in the story of the raising of the daughter of Jairus and the healing of the woman with an issue of blood; this is not accidental. We see two kinds of faith - weak and strong, and the good news that the Lord will respond to even to weak faith, but we must also respond when He does! Of course, the whole point of His response to our weak faith is that it would become stronger! We look at the weak faith of Jairus and his necessary response to the Lord, and learn form the strong faith of the woman with an issue of blood.
25th Sunday after Pentecost
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Luke 10-25-37
1999
Also in Format:
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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)
- 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
SYNOPSIS:Regarding the question of "Who is my neighbor", the Lord Jesus Christ, as is usual, gives many answers at once. The parable of the Good Samaritan is rich in symbolism and Theology, and teaches about morality, the church, the second coming and the judgment, but it basically boils down to two broad "answers": we must know God and know ourselves. This parable, more than any other in Scripture, shows the ministry of the incarnate God-man Jesus Christ and the nature of man. If we understand both, we will always know who our neighbor is.
- 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
SYNOPSIS:In this longer than usual sermon, the first part of Ephesians chapter 4 is expounded on. This selection not only presents important dogmas that are the bedrock of our faith, it also presents the proper perspective to have regarding our neighbor - a perspective that will help us to fulfill all the commandments. The doctrine of Christ's descent into Hell is discussed, and its moral application to all of our prayer, and indeed, all of our life. This selection contains some of the most important spiritual lessons a pastor can preach.
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Good Samaritan
8th Sunday of Luke. Without empathy you will not be saved.
Luke 10:25-37
2010
SYNOPSIS:The very important Parable of the Good Samaritan, only in Luke is always read in or near the Nativity Fast, appropriately, since it may be the finest exposition of incarnational theology in the Gospels. The answer to the question teaches us a critical virtue - empathy with our fellow man, without which we will not be saved, by describing the whole economy of the incarnation in the symbolism of the elements of the parable. Truly, this is a parable we should contemplate deeply. This parable is read on the 25th Sunday after Pentecost, or in some years when the Lukan jump is employed before this Sunday, on whatever Sunday is the 8th Sunday of Luke. In this year (2010), it was read on the 27th Sunday after Pentecost, which was the first day of the Nativity fast.
- What must I do to be saved? Follow the Greatest commandment and understand how to do this by understanding the Parable of the Good Samaritan. (mp3 format)
Luke 10:25-37
2011
SYNOPSIS:What must I do to be saved? Follow the Greatest commandment and understand how to do this by understanding the Parable of the Good Samaritan.
26th Sunday after Pentecost
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Harvest Of A Rich Man
1997
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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
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Harvest of the Rich Man
Two kinds of men, and redeeming the time.
Ephesians 5:9-19, Luke 12:16-21
2008
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Harvest Of A Rich Man
It is not about money. The Rich man made two significant mistakes.
Luke 12:16-21, Ephesians 5:9-19,
2009
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Harvest Of The Rich Man
Luke 12:16-21
2010
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Harvest of a rich man should be read in context, as it is in the middele of important teaching about how we shuold regard wealth and the things we should value. The context of the parable is discussed, and then follows an exposotion of the symbolism and moral teacing of the parable. This year (2010), We read this the 28th Sunday after Pentecost, on the 28th Sunday of Luke, since we follow the Julian Calendar and the Lukan jump.
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Harvest Of A Rich Man
Plenty Of Time Remembrance Of Death
Luke 12:16-21 26th Sunday After Pentecost Or 9th Sunday Of Luke
2010
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Word DOC SYNOPSIS:An excellent homily by Fr David Moser on the parable of the harvest of the Rich man and the remembrance of death. Let us compare oursleves to the rich man and see if we also live as if we had plenty . - 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
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mp3 - 26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Luke 12:16-21
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Harvest of a Rich man has an important question which the rich man asks wrongly and we MUST ask rightly, many times each day: "What shall I do?" We examine this question, how is is asked wrongly most of the time, and how we must ask it, in order to be "rich towards God".
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
- 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Two Visions Of The Kingdom
Ephesians 6:10-17, Luke 13:10-17
2007
- 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
It is really pretty simple.
Luke 13:10-17
2008
- 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
2009
- 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
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Word DOC SYNOPSIS:This excellent homily by Fr David Moser explains the "reason for the season" is fully laid out by the scripture read today. First of all, "Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners". The reason and effect of the incarnation is succinctly explained, including how the Lord calls to each one of us, and an example of its effect is given - the woman with the infirmity of 18 years, in which her physical infirmity is like the infirmity of the soul - bent over because of sin - and the only solution to this infirmity is the incarnation of the God-man, Jesus Christ. - 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
SYNOPSIS:The epistle read today succinctly sums up the reason for the incarnation of the God-man: "Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners". To understand this, we must understand what sin is. Most have a great misconception about sin and only think that is is something that offends Almighty God, and do not understand that the reason God is offended is because all sin darkens us, and makes us "bent over", unable to see God and know Him. The effect of sin is well shown by the woman with the infirmity of 18 years. Lets us explore what sin does to us, and the only solution to our terrible predicament.
- The healing of the woman with a spirit of inrimity 18 years teaches us that love is the highest law and HOW to love. (mp3 format)
Luke 13:10-17
2012
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the woman with a spirit of infirmity of 18 years warns us to not be formal in our religion. Love is the highest law; we can only obey this law if we understand something critically important about ourselves. This healing teaches us both of these things.
28th Sunday after Pentecost
29th Sunday after Pentecost
- 29th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Luke 17-12-19
199612
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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
- 29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Healing Of The 10 Lepers
Arise, go thy way thy faith hath made thee whole.
Luke 17:12-19
2009
- "Thy faith hath made thee whole" understanding the faith of the leper who was healed. (mp3 format)
Luke 18:18-27
2012
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.
30th Sunday of Pentecost
- "When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory." Here is the reason to struggle against sin! (mp3 format)
Colossians 3:4-11 Luke 18:18-27 Matthew 25:1-13
2013
SYNOPSIS:"When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.". So starts the reading for the Sunday of the Holy Fathers (before Nativity), which I mistakenly preached on today. I am happy I made the mistake because the epistle integrated nicely with both of the Gospels, that of the rules who wanted to know what he should do to be saved, and the 5 wise and 5 foolish virgins. There are general reasons why so many of us lead mediocre and unhappy, not very spiritual lives. These scriptures address all of them. Here is the reason to struggle against sin! There is a lot here, and it is all important.
31st Sunday after Pentecost
35th Sunday after Pentecost
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
- 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
SYNOPSIS:"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." This extreme statement by the Apostle Paul must define the way we live our life, and is the key to making any progress in virtue. It is a &mindset" that permiates Orthodox Christian life and prayers, but is not well understood. Let us look at how in our daily lives we can make this saying "worthy of all acceptation". Many examples from the scriptures will help us, such as the publican, the woman who annointed the Lord's feet, and the Apostle Peter.
Weekday Readings
- 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
SYNOPSIS:When our Lord taught that adultery can be committed even in the mind ("whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart") He redefined what sin is. The Jews and people to this day have a limited understanding of what sin is - mostly that it is things we do that we should not do. Sin is actually a condition of the heart, and the Lord is presenting this teaching here. Life is lived, for good or bad, entirely in the heart.
- 2nd Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Everything must be done with faith or the Lord will say 'I never knew you depart from me, ye that work iniquity'
Matthew 7:21-23
2011
SYNOPSIS:This short Gospel teaches us that only things done with faith save, and warns that many will be suprised at the judgment when they find out that the things they did were not recognized by the Lord because they were not done with faith. How can we do everything with faith?
- 2nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Children's homily
Jesus is always with us
Matthew 8:23-27
2011
SYNOPSIS:A homily to the children about Jesus calming the storm and comparing him to Jonah with lots of participation by the children throughout. "Type" is explained in a way that children can understand (Jonah is a "type" of Jesus because there are things in his life that remind us about him). This is in keeping with our principle that children's homilies must be simple still must train them to be students of scripture. "Big words" may be used, but they are always explained. The fact that the disciples were saved by Jesus even though at first He was asleep and they were very scared teaches us an important lesson. We also discuss the other time Jesus calmed the storm - when He walked on the water. The take home is that Jesus is always with us.
- 2nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Romans 5:10-16
2011
- 3rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Children's homily
Fear not them which kill the body
Matthew 10:23-31
2011
SYNOPSIS:A homily for the children most of whom were the grandchildren of the priest, who reminisced with them about how their mother loved the verse "And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul", and would emphatically state this in her squeaky little girl voice. We discuss trust and how God is always with us, and knows everything about us - even the number of hairs on our head, as usual, with the children seated "in the round" and with audience participation.
- 3rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Groaning Hope And Prayer
The Spirit Itself Maketh Intercession For Us
Romans 8:22-27
2011
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Romans 8:22-27 which contains the very good news that we are not responsible for competence in our prayer, but rather, if we provide the desire and compunction (described by St Paul as to "groan within ourselves"), "helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.". The very important and misunderstood word "hope" is also defined, and we investigate what "groaning within ourselves" should be. St Paul is often very technical and complicated in his writing, but this passage is among his most comforting - it is truly the "Gospel" (good news) for those who have the proper disposition regarding themselves and the world.
- 5th Wednesday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Sign of Jonas
Matthew 12:38-45
2008
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:When the Pharisees asked the Lord for a "sign", He stated that the only sign they would receive was the "sign of Jonas". This sign can only be understood in the entire context of Jonas' life and ministry, along with the reaction of the people of Nineveh. It includes the resurrection, baptism and the totality of the Christian way of life.- 8th Thursday after Pentecost (HTML format)
What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:24-28
2008
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RTF - 9th Tuesday after Pentecost (HTML format)
How many times should I forgive? The difference between the commandment to forgive all times and the priest’s responsibility and right to bind and loose.
Matthew 18:18-22: 19:1-2, 13-15
2008
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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
- 11th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
He That Shall Endure Unto The End The Same Shall Be Saved
Matthew 24-13-28
2011
- "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." It seems obvious now, but will it be after years of sin? (mp3 format)
11th Thursday after Pentecost
Matthew 24:13-28
2012
SYNOPSIS:This is one of myu most important homilies ever, and involves a very personal story. The Scripture today mentions the Second Coming of the Lord, and Jesus gives instructions that are easy to understand. Basically, He teaches that if there is time to talk about the supposed arrival of Him in the second coming, it is NOT happening. His coming will be so fast that "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." This scripture has always meant a great deal to me, because of hearing it long ago spoken to a person who was absolutely convinced that she could never be deceived. even though at the time she was in a sinful relationship with a man. She figured that God would forgive he when they married, and she was right; God forgives all who repent, but the question that has always been on my mind since that day is, would there come a timer, after many days, months, years of sin that a person would not longer desire to repent, and be capable of being deluded regarding things they formally understood? This is a critical question!
- 14th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing of the Gadarene Demoniac
Fear of God vs other kinds of Fear
Mark 5:22-24,35,6:1
2011
SYNOPSIS:The reaction of the people of the Gadarenes after the healing of demoniac shows several kinds of fear, but not the fear of God. We compare their fear with the fear of God, contrasting it with the reaction of the Samaritan woman at the well. This is a frightening story, and it is not because of the ferocity of the demons, but rather the reaction of the people. Let us learn from them.
- The abyss of humility of the Greek Syrophonecian woman - Mark 7:24-30 (mp3 format)
Humility Of The Greek Syrophenician Woman Who Cared For Her Husbands Mistress
Mark 7:24-30, Ephesians 1:1-9
2011
SYNOPSIS:The abyss of humility of the Greek Syrophonecian woman is seen when she answered the curt dismissal of Jesus with the words "Yeah Lord, but even the little dogs under the table eat of the childrens crumbs." We need to acquire this kind of humility! We look at her humility and also two modern and incredible examples, gleaned from a talk by Papa Dimitrios Carellas. One concerns a woman who cared for the mistress of her husband after he brought her into their home, and then accomplished another ascetic feat with her that had the angels in awe, and another concerning a ROCOR bishop falsely accused of sexual assault. We also look at the life of Nun Theodora of Alexandria (9/11). Let us try to acquire even a drop of the humility of these holy ones. We also look at the meaning of the words from the Epistle: "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins". Wondrous is God in His Saints, and wondrous is His Holy blood which redeems us!
- 17th Saturday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Ten Virgins
Aquiring The Holy Spirit
Matthew 25:1-13
2008
- "Having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself...; - Basic (but not well known) Christology and what happened on the cross. (mp3 format)
21st Wednesday after Pentecost
Colossians 1:18-23
2012
SYNOPSIS:Colossians chapter 1 contains one of the most succinct and clear descriptions of Who Christ is, what He did, how the cross was involved, and what we must therefore do. It is "Christology 101" and we must understand it and act accordingly. This is not your Baptist Grandmother's Christology or understanding of the cross!
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 22nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Continue In Prayer
Let Your Speech Be Alway With Grace Seasoned With Salt
Colossians 4-2-9
2011
- 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
- 35th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
For Ye Have Need Of Patience
Hebrews 10:35-11:7
2008
- 35th Friday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Which Country Are We Mindful Of
Hebrews 11:8,11-16
2008
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RTF - 36th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Pure Religion And Undefiled Before God And The Father Is This
James 1-19-27
2011
- 38th Monday after Pentecost (HTML format)
What Did Christ Do On The Cross
1 Peter 2:21-3:9
2008
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RTF
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
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
Also in Format:
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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
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Luke 14:16-24
2008
- 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
- 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
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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- "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
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
- 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
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
- Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
The Geneology Proves Jesus Saves All Humanity
2012
- 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
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
The whole meaning of Christmas is in today's epistle
Galatians 4:4-7
2009
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
2010
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Eve of Nativity
We worship Thy Nativity O Christ, show us also Thy divine Theophany
2011
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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 (mp3 format)
The meaning of Christmas: "Abba, Father".
Christological exegesis of Nativity Epistles
Galatians 4:4-7 Hebrews 2:11-18
2011
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
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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 (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
1 4
2012
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
4 8
2012
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Hymns Of Nativity
History Meditation Theology
2012
- 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
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Sunday After Nativity
1999
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (Word DOC format)
Sunday After Nativity
2000
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Sunday After Nativity
The Slaughter Of The Holy Innocents And Free Will
2000
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Sunday After Nativity
2008
- 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
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
Things are not as they seem!
2009
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
Matthew 2:13-23
2010
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2010
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
How To React To Evil
Matthew 2:13-23
2011
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
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Regular Everyday Christianity And Knowing The Will Of God
Flight Into Egypt
Matthew 2-13-23
2013
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
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
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.
- Theophany, The Baptism of the Lord, & "Illumining". "To Fulfil all Righteousness." About Holy Water. (HTML format)
- 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
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
Baptism allows us to fulfil all righteousness.
Matthew 3:13-17
2009
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
The Grace Of God That Bringeth Salvation Hath Appeared To All Men
2011
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
- 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
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.
- 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
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 4:12-17
2009
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
The Measure Of The Gift Of Christ
Ephesians 4:7-13
2011
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
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
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
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!
Feasts of the Savior, Transfiguration
- Transfiguration (HTML format)
Human nature in the midst of the Divine.
Luke 9:28-36 (The Gospel For Matins)
2008
Also in Format:
Word DOC or
mp3 You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
YouTube,
Yahoo,
MySpace,
Metacafe,
Google,
Revver,
DailyMotion,
Blip.TV,
VeohSYNOPSIS: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. - Transfiguration (mp3 format)
A Prophesy Of Things To Come
Partakers Of Divine Nature
2010
- 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
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
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
- 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
SYNOPSIS:The services for any important feast day explain in great detail the theological and moral meaning of the feast. We look at a small sample of the important teachings, by looking at three hymns from matins: "Revealing the human form of Thy second and awesome coming with Thy glory, O Savior Thou, wast transfigured on Mount Tabor. Elijah and Moses conversed with Thee, and Thy three disciples were summoned to behold Thy glory O Master, and marveled at Thy radiance. O Thou who then shone forth Thy light upon them, illumine our souls!" (Matins for the Transfiguration, 1st Sessional Hymn, Tone IV) "Speaking words of life in giving instruction concerning that which is divine, Christ said to his friends. "Recognize the Father in Me, for I emit unapproachable light, onto the joy of those who chant: let us sing unto our God for he hath been glorified!"" (Matins for the Transfiguration, Canon, Ode I) "Moses who of old foresaw Thee in the fire and in the bush, and Elijah, who was taken up in the chariot of fire, arriving on Tabor proclaimed Thy glory, For the sake of Thy cross, O Christ." (Matins for the Transfiguration, Canon, Ode IV)
- 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
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
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
- 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
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2009
- Exaltation of the Cross (HTML format)
We Preach Christ Crucified
What is the way of the cross?
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2009
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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. - Sunday Before the Exaltation of the Cross. We are saved from the poison of our passions and sin through the Cross. Exegesis of John 3:13-17 (HTML format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
2010
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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
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
- 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
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
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Christ Liveth In Me
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:4-9:1
2011
- 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
- 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
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Blessed Is The Man That Findeth Wisdom And Is Rich In Prudence
Proverbs 3-11-18
2012
- 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
- "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
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.
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:
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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
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. - Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)
Dormition
Explanation Of The Dormition Troparion
2009
Also in Format:
Word DOC or
mp3 You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
YouTube,
Yahoo,
MySpace,
Metacafe,
DailyMotion,
Blip.tv and
VeohSYNOPSIS: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- Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Entry Of The Theotokos
One of the "Great Forgotten Feasts" because of our pride in this egalitarian age. Let us explore holiness; we are called to it also!
Luke 10:38-42: 11:27-28
2010
SYNOPSIS:The Entry of the Theotokos is one of the 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)
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
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.
- Dormition: Children's sermon (mp3 format)
2012
SYNOPSIS:A homily/talk with the children about Dormition.
Feasts of the Saints
June 29
July 04
July 13
August 29
July 21
June 24
- Nativity of John the Baptist. Exegesis of Vespers Parables (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
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 Paul (mp3 format)
Romans 13:11-14:4
2011
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
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 Paul (HTML format)
1 Peter 1:3-9 : 1 Peter 1:13-19 : 1 Peter 2:11-24
2011
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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
August 29
- Beheading of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Exegesis of Vespers Readings. (mp3 format)
Isaiah,Malachi,Wisdom
2011
- 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
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
September 26
December 06
August 20
- Great Martyr Phanurios of Rhodes. (mp3 format)
Great Martyr Phanurios Of Rhodes
2012
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.
- Holy Prophet Samuel: Behold, here am I. Speak, for thy servant hears. (mp3 format)
Prophet Samuel
2012
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.
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
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
March 09
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
- Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Let us forgive all things on the resurrection.
2009
- Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
Pascha. Why do we read from the first chapter of John tonight?
To experience the resurrection we must know Christ.
John 1:1-17
2010
Also in Format:
mp3 SYNOPSIS:On Pascha, we do not read one of the resurrection accounts in the Gospels, but instead begin with the first words of the Gospel of John. Why is this? There is a very important reason. It has to do with the truly good news of the resurrection and what we must do to hear all of it. - Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Agape Vespers
Paschal Instructions
2010
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mp3 - Bright Week Do's and Dont's (mp3 format)
Agape Vespers
2012
SYNOPSIS:Some Bright week "Do&'s and Don&'ts" that are very important to keep the Paschal joys all week. Here are a few: Do eat a steak and any food you want, every day of the week, and do not eat any tofu, but do not eat too much. Do Read the Gospel of John and the Acts, but do not read the Psalms (I explain why). Do plan on communing on Thomas Sunday, the most important Sunday of the year! Do day the Paschal hours instead of your usual prayers, and do not go back to the world too soon. Towards the end, some heartfelt thank you&'s for all those who helped with flowers, cleanup, preparation and our choir, which was other-worldly beautiful on Pascha night.
Thomas Sunday
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)
1998
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (HTML format)
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)
Two ways to be at peace
John 20:19-31
2008
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)
Two parts to our story.
John 20:19-31
2009
- Saint Thomas Sunday - Realism about the resurrection! (HTML format)
John 20:19-31
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Of all the resurrection stories, perhaps the one concerning St Thomas is the one we can most relate to. He is the "common man", who was later able to do uncommon things. We are just like him, so our path of life must also be like his, which is the Christian life in microcosm. He, like us, was a complex indivicdual, believing, then faint of heart, couargeous, then full of fear. The one thing that he did that we must do to be saved is to endure, and "believe in the midst of our unbelief". If we do this, we are not far away from the supernatural exploits of St Thomas, the Apostle. - Why are the altar doors open on pascha? When are they closed and what does it mean? (HTML format)
2011
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Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:Five minutes in between Vespers and Matins at the Vigil for Thomas Sunday about the closing of the altar doors, which have been open all of Bright week. There is profound and sobering symbolism concering the closing of the doors which we should understand.- Thomas Sunday. "Believing disbelief" is the most important part of the story. (HTML format)
John 20:19-31
2011
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:There are several important parts to the story of the encounter of the Apostle Thomas with the risen Lord, such as why the first words Jesus spoke to the assembled apostles were "Peace be unto you", the promise of the sending of the Holy Spirit and the power that Jesus gave to His Apostles to remit sins. The most important gleaning from the reading is none of these, but is understood in the blunder of St Thomas, and his subsequent behavior, which led to his full enlightenment, and gave him the privilege to be the first to proclaim in the scripture that Jesus is fully God and man. We are all much like Thomas in his mistakes; let us also investigate his great virtue, which the church calls "believing disbelief", without which, scarcely one would be saved. - The core teaching on the Sunday of Thomas: always stay close to Christ no matter what the understanding says, because of love. (mp3 format)
Thomas Sunday
John 20:19-31
2012
SYNOPSIS:The story of the "unbelieving disbelief" of Thomas, always read on the Sunday after Pascha, and also several other times during the year has one core message that applies to every human being. We look at this, and the only reason Thomas stayed with the Apostles through the eighth day, when He saw Christ - love. Without love, and the actions of Thomas replicated in *our* lives the resurrection will be of no good effect for us. the Christology and theology in this selection is deep and important, but the example which we must learn is of even higher importance.
Myrhhbearing Women
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Myrrhbearing women
"Who will roll away the stone?"
Mark 15:43-47
1998
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing Women
A question we ask many times each day. It must be with faith.
Mark 15:43-47
2000
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrhhbearing Women
Love is more important than knowledge; Love leads to knowledge.
Mark 15:43-47
2003
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing women
Mark 15:43-47
2008
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing Women
Act on what you know and you will know more, do what you can do, and you will be able to do more.
Mark 15:43-16:8
2009
- Just do the right thing. All the time. God will roll away the stone. 3rd Sunday of Pascha - The Myrrhbearing Women. Mark 15:43-16:8 (HTML format)
Mark 15:43-16:8
2010
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Word DOC SYNOPSIS:The story of the Myrhhbearing women and Joseph and Nikodemus is fundementally about boldness, and doing the right thing, without regard to how it will get done. Here is a small excerpt: To become bold doesn't mean you do something without being scared. It means you do something despite the fact that you're scared, or confused, or whatever. That's what courage is. Courage is to do things regardless of how you feel, and that's what the Myrrhbearing Women did, and that's what Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus did, and that's what we must do. And there will be moments in our life when we have to be bold, not just one, but many moments. - 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrhhbearing Women
Mark 15:43-16:8
2010
SYNOPSIS:The story of the myrhhbearers is like ours, in microcosm. Life is full of moments when we must "become bold" as Joseph (and the myrhhbearers) did, and do what is right, even if we do not how we can accomplish the task (roll away the stone and deal with the armed guards) or what will come of it. Even when we have accomplished something, or grace visits us, we may not recognize it or understand it, just like the myrrhbearers, who were afraid after hearing the announcement of the resurrection from the angel. The myrhhbearers who us the way - do what is right, or even what we think is right, no matter ho "possible" it seems or how likely that the outcome will be pleasing, and in time, all will be revealed to us. This Gospel continues the theme of how the enlightenment of the resurrection is actualized in us.
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing Women
2011
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing Women
"Joseph became bold" and "who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre"
Mark 15:43-47
2011
SYNOPSIS:The most important parts of the reading for the Holy Myrhhbearers are the actions of Joseph and the myrhhbearers. We are told that "Joseph became bold" - the same man who had been a secret follower of Christ because of fear. Why did he become bold? This is very important. Three of the myrhhbearers observed the burial of Jesus. Why is this important? Life is full of ordinary things,. but sometimes when we do them, they are extraordinary,. We must do ordinary things in an extraordinary way, as did Joseph and Nicodemus and the Holy Myrhhbearers. In doing these things, we will encounter obstacles, and ask like the myrhhbearers "who shall roll away the stone", and if have fidelity to Christ as they had, the stone will always be rolled away.
- "Having become bold" - What made Joseph, Nicodemus and the Myrhhbearers bold? (mp3 format)
Mark 15:43-16:8
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Scriptures tell us that Joseph "became bold" and asked for the body of Jesus from Pilate. He did a dangerous thing, which would likely cost him his life, as did the Holy Myrhhbearers when they went to the tomb on the day of the resurrection, to anoint a dead man. Why did they become bold? This is very important! They did not quite " get things right", since Jesus was not dead, so it is not so important that we get everything right and understand everything, but we must &become bold", because of love, and God will cause everything to work to the good. Also, at the beginning, an instruction about praying for people during the most sacred part of the Divine Liturgy, which is an obligation for all Orthodox Christians, and not only the clergy.
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
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Word DOC SYNOPSIS:Today is a feast day for all of us paralytics. Today, brothers and sisters, we to a certain degree are meeting our name-day, our feast day. Who among us can boast that he is strong, courageous, bearing all the misfortunes of this age, fulfilling all of Christ’s commandments? Deliver us, O Lord, if such a person stands in our midst -- one cannot imagine a worse righteous or strong man! The Apostle Paul says: Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong (2 Cor 12:10). But the Apostle did not deprive himself of one thing: strong faith and undoubting hope in the Savior. "The power of God is made perfect in weakness!" How can the world, which does not believe in God and preaches the illusory omnipotence of mankind, understand this? Paralytic brothers and sisters! Let us rejoice that we at least understand ourselves as we are! ...- 4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Sunday of the Paralytic. 4th Sunday of Pascha.
Wilt thou be made whole? A question we must answer at EVERY moment.
1999
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The Paralytic
2000
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (RTF format)
The Paralytic
2001
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The Paralytic
Baptism explained
John 5:1-15
2008
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Another important question.
John 5:1-15
2009
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Paralytic
"Wilt thou be made whole?" 3 ways we must always answer this question.
John 5:1-15
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Today, brothers and sisters, we continue on the Paschal theme, which is the enlightenment of the Resurrection and how it occurs in real life, not in our fantasy, but how it really occurs. In this story there are basically three things that the Lord is teaching to be made whole. It all depends how we answer the question "Wilt thou be made whole?". We must learn to hear this question reverberating in us ALL THE TIME, and answer it in three ways EVERY TIME.- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The doctrine of the cross in the hymns of the Octoechos
Victory over death and healing.
Sunday Octoechos Tone 3
2011
SYNOPSIS:The Orthodox dogma about the cross is often displayed in the Sunday hymns for Vespers and Matins. Many or even most who identify with Christianity and are not Orthodox only have a legal view of what happened on the cross. For us Orthodox, what happened on the cross was the destruction of death, and our healing. We have a relational view. What good is it to be forgiven and not also healed? Two hymns from the Sunday Octoechos help illustrate a part of our understanding of the significance of the cross: "By Thy cross, O Christ our Savior, the dominion of death hath been destroyed, and the deception of the devil hath been abolished; and the race of man, having been saved by faith, doth ever offer praise to Thee" (Lord I have cried, Sunday Octoechos, Tone 3), "Thy precious cross do we worship O Christ, and Thy resurrection do we praise and glorify, for by Thy wounding are we all healed." (Lord I have cried, Sunday Octoechos, Tone 3)
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The paralytic at the sheep's pool.
The healing of the paralytic teaches the doctrine of baptism and gives important baptismal admonitions.
John 5:1-15
2011
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the paralytic teaches rather completely the important doctrines of baptism, such as what happens in baptism, and what we must do.
- Exegesis of Acts 9:32-42. Two miracles of Peter. The variable relationship of faith to miracles. (mp3 format)
Peter Heals Aeneas And Raises Tabitha
Faith And Miracles
Acts 9:32-42
2012
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Acts 9:32-42, the reading for the 4th Sunday of Pascha. Two miracles of Peter. The variable relationship of faith to miracles.
- Healing of the Paralytic by the Sheeps pool. The character of the paralytic and the fight for faith when despondency strikes. (mp3 format)
I have no man!
John 5:1-15
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Healing of the Paralytic by the sheep&'s pool has many deep theological concepts in it, but none of this matters if we do not adopt the character and faith of the paralytic. We examine his patience and also his despondency. All true faith must battle with despondency. The paralytic and other examples during this Paschal period, such at the Apostle Thomas and Peter, and the Myrrh bearing women teach us this critical lesson.
The Samaritan Woman
- 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Samaritan Woman
The Conversation of Christ with the Soul.
John 4:5-42
2001
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Word DOC - 5th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
The Samaritan Woman
She left her waterpot.
John 4:5-42
2008
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mp3 - 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
- 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The story of the woman at the well, the Samaritan woman, Photini, must be understood in a historical, theological, mystical and practical context. She said "the well is deep", and this story can be discussed from many perspectives, many of which are, alas, unintelligible to most because of their low level of theological knowledge and interest. The most important one for us is what we must do do get the living water, the Holy Spirit. Saint Photini shows us several things that we MUST be if we are to be saved - theologically literate, having thirst for righteousness, humility, and zeal. Her conversation with the Lord and subsequent actions show all these things. - 5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The Samaritan Woman
A textbook example of how to listen to God.
John 4:5-42
2011
- She left her waterpot! The extreme humility and faith of the Samaritan Woman. (mp3 format)
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2012
SYNOPSIS:The story of the woman at the well, St Photini (Svetlana) has an enormous amount of deep and important theology, but the most important part is the personality of the Samaritan woman must be understood an emulated to understand any of it. She was very humble; when the Lord exposed her sin, she stayede with Him to hear more. When she understood Him, she left her waterpot. We esplore these two actions. She was an extremist. We cannot be saved unless we are too.
The Blind Man
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Blind Man
2001
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Blind Man
It takes character to be able to see.
John 4:5-42
2002
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Blind Man
We must do what we do not understand in order to gain understanding.
John 9:1-38
2003
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Blind Man
It really is about character too.
John 9:1-38
2008
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mp3 Video of this homily:
Part 1 Part 2- 6th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Blind Man
You can't be saved unless you have character. God will not give it to you.
John 9:1-38
2010
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Today, brothers and sisters, it's already the fifth Sunday of Pascha and the Sunday of the blind man, and in keeping with all the other Sundays it is a day in which we read about someone who is enlightened and the process of their enlightenment, and we have another important characteristic of enlightenment especially shown today. It is shown in some of the others too, in St. Thomas, in the Samaritan Woman, but especially here we see incredible courage; we see incredible character. You can't be saved unless you have character. God's not going to give it to you. You can't be saved unless in your heart you want to be honest and in your heart you want to be courageous. You won't be saved unless you have good character. Don't depend on God to give it to you. You have to have it. You have to have a desire to be good. This is good character. Whether or not you make mistakes and you have sins - that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about what is it that you desire and what is it that you value and how do you order your life? ...- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
John 9:1-38
2011
SYNOPSIS:What is the most important part of the healing of the blind man story? It is undoubtedly the courage of the blind man and how because of his courage he was brought to full enlightenment and healing. Our healing in Christ will not proceed to completion without personal courage. It does not matter how talented, intelligent or knowledgeable you are, or whether you have more self control than most and your life is in good order or not - without personal courage and willingness to stand up and be a Christian in our post Christian age (a misnomer term, there has never been a "Christian" age, since the world has always been against Christ), you will not be healed of your passions and sins and achieve perfection. The dialogue of the blind man with the Pharisees of his age (every age has them), shows how we incrementally become wiser and sounder in soul as we react to whatever the world brings to is with courage, and with what we know at the time. This is an "every man" kind of story. The blind man had no special talent, nor did he have complete knowledge (his answers showed him growing in knowledge), but he was courageous, and because of this, he gained not only physical eyes, but also spiritual ones. Anyone who is tempted to cave in to the political correctness of this age, which demands certain ways of thinking, speaking and acting, needs to ponder the healing of the blind man in great detail.
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Passage Through The Red Sea As A Type Of The Theotokos
2011
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
The Sunday of the Blind Man
What must I do to be saved?
John 9:1-38
2011
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The story of the healing of the blind man who washed in the pool of Siloam is a primer on what we must do and must not do - to be saved. We discuss some very important dogma presented at the beginning of the reading (what does it mean when is says Jesus "passed by" - it is something very specific, personal and important, questions abut sin, what our Lord's important statement about work during the day means), and then we look at the character of the blind man, and the ruling Jewish elite. A clear pattern emerges of the things WE must do, and the things that God will do it we do these necessary things.
Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
John 17:1-13
2002
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
What is Heaven?
John 17:1-13
2008
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
The entire content ot the Christian faith is Jesus Christ.
John 17:1-13
2009
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Holy Fathers Of The First Ecumenical Council
Why do we commemorate the First Ecumenical Council & read the High Priestly prayer of Jesus between Ascension & Pentecost?
John 17:1-13
2010
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mp3 - 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers Of The First Ecumenical Council
The High Priestly Prayer Of Jesus Christ
John 17:1-13
2011
SYNOPSIS:The Christology of the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Christ (which He made just before His arrest on Holy Thursday) is explained, and then the moral application of this prayer which is as important as the dogma in it is discussed. Our Lord proves that He is equal to the Father, and gives us two instructions on what we must do to be saved. Both instructions are intimately related to His relationship with the Father, and consequently what our relationship should be with God and our neighbor.
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Fathers First Ecumenical Council
That They May Be One
John 17-1-13
2012
Weekday Readings during Paschaltide
- Bright Monday (mp3 format)
Important truths are rarely said absolutely unambiguously.
"No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him", and "Make straight the way of the lord."
John 1:18-28
2011
SYNOPSIS:The effect of the incarnation and the absolute necessity for a moral life is declared inn the Gospel for Bright Monday. As is the usual case, profound truths about the Christian life are stated, but not with absolute clarity. The fullness of the meaning of Scripture is not apparent to the casual observer, but only to those who struggle foe righteousness. We look at the whole passage, but particularly the two phrases: "No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him", and "Make straight the way of the Lord."
- Bright Thursday (HTML format)
Nicodemus meets Jesus.
Illumination by degrees, but only if we stay in the kitchen!
John 3:1-15
2009
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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
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the encounter of Nicodemus with Christ.
- 2nd Wednesday of pascha (mp3 format)
2011
- 2nd Thursday of pascha (mp3 format)
John 5-24-30
2011
- Is a liberal seminary student as smart as a little girl! No! Children's sermon on John 5:24-30 and Christology. (mp3 format)
John 5:24-30
2012
SYNOPSIS:A children's sermon on John 5:24-30, and important Christology that 7, 5 and 4 years olds know and liberal seminary students do not!
- 3rd Thursday of pascha (mp3 format)
Acts 8-26-39-John 6-40-44
2011
- "The sheep follow him for they know his voice." How? (mp3 format)
Fifth Thursday after Pascha
John 9:39-10:9
2012
- 6th Thursday after pascha (HTML format)
Ascension
The whole of our faith is Jesus Christ. Two prophesies, one fulfilled, one being fulfilled.
2009
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Because Jesus Christ took on our flesh in every way, His ascension tells us that we will ascend in the flesh. This will be accomplished by living according the the Holy Spirit, Who was promised to us after His ascension. - 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Exegesis Of Old Testament Parables Read During Ascension Vespers
2011
- 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Childrens Sermon
2011
- 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Human Nature Deified Holy Spirit Sent Judgment To Come
2011
- 8th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.
To ask in Jesus' name, we must live according to His name.
John 16:23-33
2011
SYNOPSIS:In our day, many people who believe in Christ end their extemporaneous prayers with the ubiquitous phrase: "In Jesus name", in large part due to an incorrect understanding of this verse: "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you." What does it means to pray in Jesus' name? It does not mean to add a suffix to our prayers, but rather, to live according to His name, and then, of course, our prayers will be in accordance with His all-holy will. We explore this important idea.
Weeks before Great Lent
- Week of the Publican and Pharisee;Monday (mp3 format)
No Prophecy Of The Scripture Is Of Any Private Interpretation
2 Peter 1:20-2:9
2008
- Exposition of 1 John 1:8-2:6. (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
SYNOPSIS:Exposition of 1 John 1:8-2:6.
- Week of the Prodigal Son;Saturday (mp3 format)
Saturday Of The Dead
1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 John 5:24-30
2011
SYNOPSIS:A homily at the liturgy of the Saturday for the dead. Why do we pray for the dead? What is proper and improper sorrow for the dead (it is related to how much we believe in the resurrection)? What will happen on the day of judgment?
- "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar" and "By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments" - The Apostle of Love's teaching on love, being born of God and the commandments. (mp3 format)
Thursday before Meatfare
1 John 4:20-5:21
2012
SYNOPSIS:This selection from the end of the First Letter of St John the Theologian, the "Apostle of Love" contains many important passages, and we discuss some of them in detail: "If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?", "By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.", "We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not;" St John teaches that the becoming "born of God" is a process, and is only completed when we reach perfection, that is when we no longer sin. He also teaches us the way to learn to love God - love our neighbor. He also teaches the Christian understanding of the commandments of God, which is not well known, or understood: we follow the commandments out of love for God, and not because of fear of punishment.
- Do not make friends because of evil & "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do." (mp3 format)
Week of the Last Judgment: Thursday
Luke 23:2-34,44-56
2012
SYNOPSIS:The week before Great Lent begins, we visit the Passion of the Lord; we will of course look at it in great detail Holy Week. The account of the passion is so full and rich that we learn something new from it every time we read it. Today we look at the friendship of Herod and Pilate - it has much to teach us about our friendships. We also look at Jesus' last great teaching by example: "Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."
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
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zaccheaus
Encouragement
2008
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
A "before" and "beginning" story, to be continued...
Luke 19:1-10
2009
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mp3 - 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Find a way!
Luke 19:1-10
2010
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
He Sought To See Jesus Who He Was
Luke 19:1-10
2011
SYNOPSIS:Jesus will show Himself to every man, without exception. Why is it that some, such as Zacchaeus see Him as He really is, and others such as the crowd who judged Zacchaeus, do not see Him even though He is in their midst? The whole point to life is to "see Jesus", that is, to know Him. Zacchaeus gives us import instructions as to how to accomplish this. Every day, we must be like Zacchaeus, recognizing who we are, and how little we are and how much our sins present an obstacle to knowing God, and run ahead of them to await the Lord coming to us. HE will always come - are we always in the proper state of mind to receive Him?
- Sunday of Zacchaeus. The process of repentance. (mp3 format)
Luke 19:1-10
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Story of the repentance of Zacchaeus, the "chief among the publicans" marks the beginning of the preparation period for Great Lent, which in turn prepares us for Pascha. We look at this story in the larger context of what we should be doing in Great Lent. It is *not* just about fasting and repentance! It is more about opening ourselves to the grace of God to be changed and healed. This is what happened to Zacchaeus, and we look into our Lord&'s dealings with him and his response in detail, with the aim that both would teach us how to live in a way that makes us more able to receive the grace of God and change, and be truly happy.
- 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
Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (Word DOC format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
The rest of the story, How was the publican justified?
Matthew 15:21-28
1999
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Publican And Pharisee
Zacchaeus is saved by his humility.
Matthew 15:21-28
2007
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
The theme of Great Lent
Luke 18:10-14
2010
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mp3 - 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
2011
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Do not judge.
Luke 18:10-14
2011
SYNOPSIS:The major thrust of Great Lent is given many times in the services for the Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee, such as "Vainglory brings to nothing the riches of righteousness, but humility scatters a multitude of passions. Grant then that we may seek humilty, O Savior, and do Thou bestow upon us the portion of the publican; (Matins canon, Ode 3). This time is for the pursuit of humility, because without humilty we will not be saved. What can we glean from the publican and pharisee? The worst sin of the pharisee was his judgment of the publican. Above all things, we must not judge others. Since this sin is so pervasive, how can we learn to not judge others?
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
By The Waters Of Babylon
Dashing The Infants Against The Rock
Psalm 1136
2011
SYNOPSIS:"By the waters of Babylon", Psalm 136 is sung only the 3 Sundays before Great Lent, at matins. It is historical, being a lament of the exiled Jews in Babylon for their beloved Jerusalem, but like everything in the Scriptures, there is also a deep spiritual meaning. This is especially true at the end of the psalm, which talks of "dashing thine infants against the rock". What does this mean? This is really important!
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
He Came To Himself
Luke 15:11-32
2011
- Vespers teaches the meaning of the Publican & Pharisee: pride,humility,boasting,self-condemnation,tears & exegesis of Timothy: our example, expect persecution, the power of scripture (mp3 format)
Vespers And The Epistle For The Publican And Pharisee: 2 Timothy 3:10-15
2012
SYNOPSIS:The first 3 hymns of Vespers from the Triodion teach us the meaning of the Publican & Pharisee parable. We also examine the epistle for this day, and tremble regarding our example to others. We look at the expectation of persecution that a Christian must have and example from the current news of how "evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived" is being fulfilled in our day. Also the power of scripture and the necessity of reading it.
- The simple message of the parable of the Publican and Pharisee and the Jesus Prayer. (mp3 format)
Luke 18:10-14
2012
SYNOPSIS:This is really two homilies. The first is about the simple meaning of the parable of the Publican and Pharisee. It is that we will not be saved if we are proud and judge others. We discuss some of its nuances. We also discuss the prayer of the publican "God be mercy to be a sinner", and the Jesus prayer. There is a lot of practical detail. This is really important stuff.
- "Open unto me, O Giver of Life, the gates of repentance" Telling the truth and becoming free. Lenten Hymns after the Gospel at Matins (mp3 format)
Hymns After The Matins Gospel In The Triodion
2013
SYNOPSIS:"Open unto me, O Giver of Life, the gates of repentance: for early in the morning my spirit seeks Thy holy temple, bearing a temple of the body all defiled. But in Thy compassion cleanse it by Thy loving-kindness and Thy mercy." This hymn is sung after the Gopel at Matins during the period of the Lenten Triodion. It teaches us to tell the truth about ourselves, not as the world speaks, and to become free. We look at this hymn closely.
- "This man went down to his house justified rather than the other" The most important thing about the parable of the publican and Pharisee, and the (relatively) *easy* path to happiness. (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Luke 15:11-32
2013
SYNOPSIS:Our hymns regarding the Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee are quite important, and mainly teach about the evils of pride, and its wicked child, judgment of others, and the virtues of humility. The most important "take home" from the parable is much more than this; it is the only path to true happiness, and it is capable, as one of our hymns says, of delivering us from our sins, "against all expectation". Let us TELL THE TRUTH about ourselves to God without fear, and become free! Let us examine this path, and the joy that it will bring to us. "The Pharisee was exalted in his righteousness, and so he fell. The Publican was abased, defiled by many sins; yet he was exalted and ***against all expectation, he was justified***."
Sunday of the Prodigal Son
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
1997
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Word DOC - 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
2007
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
The most important part of the parable.
Luke 15:11-32
2009
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
Our life in microcosm. Two things keep us from salvation.
Luke 15:11-32
2010
- The Parable of the Prodigal Son teaches us 2 very important things in the process of repentance. (mp3 format)
Luke 12:11-32
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Prodigal Son is part of a 4 week preparation period for Great Lent. We discuss the purpose and main teaching of the 4 Sundays, and then do a somewhat quick survey of the parable, mentioning all the lush symbolism and metaphor, and concentrating on the most important part - the core of the parable - that we must learn. It consists of two things. We must "come our ourselves" - this is not a one time epiphany as described in the parable, but a daily process, that changes over time, and as we are in the process of "arising and going", we must be ever aware of how our Father is always with us and will help us, even when we feel abandoned, fruitless, or our resolve to change falters. We also look briefly at the older son, who teaches us a very important lesson regarding self-knowledge. This is important stuff!
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
The Elder Son
Luke 12-11-32
2013
- "And when he came to himself, he said, ... I will arise and go! ... And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. " The most important parts of the parable of the Prodigal Son, and how it applies to our entire life, every day. (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
Luke 12:11-32
2013
Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare)
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
2007
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment
The Judgment Is All About Love
Matthew 25:31-46
2008
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Matthew 25:31-46
2009
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Matthew 25:31-46
2010
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Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:Why is this scripture read today, two Sundays before Great Lent begins? What is its meaning? What are the two critical characteristics of those who will be saved? How are we to understand the things the righteous did and the unrighteous did not do, and their identical answers to the Lord? What must we do?- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
The Services Teach Us How To Pray
Sitchera From Lord I Have Cried, Sunday Of The Last Judgment.
2011
SYNOPSIS:A short homily given after Vespers and before matins on the Eve of the Sunday of the Last Judgment. The services contain much dogmatic content, but also teach us *how* to pray - what our attitude should be. The Sunday of the Last Judgment has many prayers (in the first person!) which mention the terrifying judgments and our terrible sinfulness, and they always end with hope in God's mercy. We must learn to pray in this way - to consider ourselves the worst of sinners and in the same breath, the same thought, having great confidence in God's mercy. Several examples for the services for tonight are discussed.
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Things That Are Repeated Are Important
Matthew 25:31-46
2011
SYNOPSIS:The account of the last judgment in the Gospel of Matthew has a lot of repetition in it. In scripture, when things are repeated, they are important. Both the righteous and the unrighteous heard the same list of good works (fed the hungry, visited the sick and those in prison, etc), and their reactions were externally similar - they wondered when the events the Lord describes occurred. The righteous "forgot" about their good works because their works were because of their consuming love for God and neighbor. Let us look carefully at the list of works the Lord describes and understand their exact meaning, and the meaning of the responses of the righteous and unrighteous. The main criterion for the judgment will be whether we have fulfilled the two greatest commandments.
- "Meat commendeth us not to God" exegesis of epistle reading for Meatfare Sunday. (mp3 format)
1 Corinthians 8:8-9:2
2012
SYNOPSIS:Perhaps one of the best remembered scriptures among those who do not fast and do not read the scripture much is the well known phrase of Saint Paul: "But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse." We look at the context of this true statement, and its application to our day. The entire passage is about sensitivity to our brother's weakness, and how the phrase "when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ" is quite similar to the one in today&' Gospel: " ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" We also discuss why we fast - it is a natural requirement of our human nature, and is an easy and readily available way to train ourselves in self-control. Without self-control, we cannot make any progress in the spiritual life.
- Sunday of the Last Judgment (Meatfare Sunday). Our Father will come to us in our repentance, and He will question us about our changes. (Word DOC format)
Matthew 25:31-46
2012
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Sunday of the Last Judgment gives the 3rd piece of important information to us in our preparation for Great Lent. We have learned that to be saved one must not judge others, and feel the weight of personal sins and ask God for mercy. We have seen the process of repentance, from the onset of sin, its destructive affects, self-realization of sin, and the importance process to "arise and go" to our Father, and the critical detail, without which we would never complete our repentance and be saved - our Father will go to us, as we are trying to change, and comfort us and empower us to complete the good work we have started. Today's Gospel about the last judgment shows the end result of true repentance, and also the "flip side" - the outcome for those who do not repent. It is a frightening spectacle, and not a pleasant one to meditate upon, but absolute necessary for us to remember. Lets us talk about how Jesus Christ came the first time, how His second coming will be, and what we must do to hear the blessed words: " Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world".- "Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.quot; The Last Judgment story teaches us we are eternal beings & everything we do must be eternal. (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment
Inherit The Kingdom Prepared For You From The Foundation Of The World
Matthew 25:31-46
2013
SYNOPSIS:Are you a glass half full or half empty person? How do you look at the Last Judgment story in Matthew 25:31-46? Many people concentrate on the condemnation of those who go to Hell, but the story actually emphasizes that we are eternal beings ("Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world"), and therefore every thing we do and every work of mercy must be eternal. It teaches us how to accomplish this: "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me"
Sunday of Forgiveness (Cheesefare)
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
We are going to do violence now.
Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 6:14-21
1999
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Word DOC SYNOPSIS:Today is the Sunday of Forgiveness, and it is also the day we enter Great Lent. After we pray the Vespers service of Forgiveness early this afternoon, we will then be in the Holy Fast. Why is it that we fast? We have a blueprint for our life, and why we fast, in the Gospel today. - 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
2007
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
"Now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed."
Romans 13:11-14:4, Matthew 6:14-21
2009
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
Now it is high time to awake out of sleep.
Romans 13:11-14:4, Matthew 6:14-21
2010
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
The Triodion teaches us how to think
2011
SYNOPSIS:An exposition of two hymns from the Triodion for Forgiveness Sunday, after Vespers. It is important to know how to think about ourselves and God, and how to approach God in prayer. More than any other season, the Triodion teaches this in almost every hymn. We look in detail at the hymns: "Adam was cast out of Paradise through eating from the tree. / Seated before the gates he wept, / lamenting with a pitiful voice and saying: / &'Woe is me, what have I suffered in my misery! / I transgressed one commandment of the Master, / and now I am deprived of every blessing. / O most holy Paradise, / planted for my sake and shut because of Eve, / pray to Him that made thee and fashioned me, / that once more I may take pleasure in thy flowers.&' / Then the Savior said to him: &'I desire not the loss of the creature which I fashioned, / but that he should be saved and come to knowledge of the truth; // and when he comes to me I will not cast him out.&'" and "O Master, Guide to wisdom, / Giver of prudent counsel, / Instructor of the foolish and Champion of the poor, / make firm my heart and grant it understanding. / O Word of the Father, give me words, / for see, I shall not stop my lips from crying out to Thee: / I am fallen, // in Thy compassion have mercy on me."
- 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
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle and Gospel for today provide excellent instructions for the beginning of Great Lent, as a thorough exegesis of these readings shows. Let us understand what the purpose of Great Lent is and understand how we can "make no provision for the flesh" in order to learn to forgive completely.
- "Now it is high time to awake out of sleep"; exegesis of the Epistle for the Sunday of Forgiveness. (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
Romans 13:11-14:4
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Sunday of Forgiveness is a perfect introduction into the purpose and aim of Great Lent.
- How to learn to forgive. (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
Matthew 6:14-21
2012
SYNOPSIS:On Forgiveness Sunday, on the precipice of Great Lent, we hear in the Gospel the last important piece of essential information for preparation for Great Lent and salvation in general. Forgiveness is the most important topic here, after we have been taught about in the preceding Sundays about the Judgment, the process of sin and repentance, and the deadly sin of judging others. The first and last Sundays of preparation are like bookends, because the man who judges will not forgive, and the man who forgives will not judge. We talk about, mainly, how we can learn to forgive others. This is mostly from us knowing ourselves. This skill is not optional, because our Lord said "if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses".
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
Fasting And Forgiving
Matthew 6:14-21
2013
Great Lent
First Sunday of Great Lent
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Before Zacchaeus
2002
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Triumph Orthodoxy Come And See
2002
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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
- 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
- 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
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
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)
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
"Follow me" and "Come and see"
The simplest and most important instructions to live according to the Triumph of Orthodoxy.
John 1:43-51
2011
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
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
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
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
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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
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Paralytic
When Jesus Saw Their Faith
Mark 2:1-12
2008
- 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
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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
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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
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
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Personalizing the prodigal son
Adam's nature was made godlike
Matins
2011
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
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
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
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
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.
Third Sunday of Great Lent
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)
Holy Cross
2001
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
2003
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Русская версия PDF format)
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (Adobe PDF format)
Holy Cross Rus
2004
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Veneration Of The Holy Cross
2004
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Veneration Of The Holy Cross
2007
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
Two Ways
Mark 8:34-91
2008
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Adoration of the Precious Cross
Whosover will...
2009
- 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
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
Before Thy Cross We Bow Down And Worship
2011
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
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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
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
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
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.
Fourth Sunday of Great Lent
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (Word DOC format)
1999
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Demoniac Boy
2001
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Before Last Judgement
2004
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Demoniac Boy
2004
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Realistic Hope
Mark 9:17-31
2008
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Mark 9:17-31
2009
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Demoniac Boy
Mark 9:17-31
2010
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
The Significance Of Fasting In The Struggle Against Fallen Spirits
By St Ignatius Brianchaninov
2011
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Word DOC SYNOPSIS:Homily by St Ignati Briachaninov: The Lord said to His Apostles about the evil spirits, "This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting" (Mark. 9:29). Here is a new aspect of fasting! Fasting is acceptable to God when it is preceded by the great virtue of mercy; fasting prepares a reward in heaven when it is foreign to hypocrisy and vainglory; fasting works when it is joined with another great virtue - prayer.
How does it work? It not only tames the passions in the human body, but it enters into battle with the spirits of evil, and conquers them.
St Ignaty goes on to explain in great detail how fasting works and why we must fast, and what our disposition must be. This may be the most important text on fasting you will every read! Your battle against the spirits of the air is very weak unless you understand St Ignaty's words!- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The dark sorrow of material things.
The sweetness of abstinence.
2011
SYNOPSIS:A few words after Presanctified liturgy about the DOGMA regarding material things and attachment to them, referring to 3 stichera from the matins canon for St John Climacus. Our DOGMAS are not just about God, but some are strictly moral truths. Especially when we sing canons in honor of Saints, and in many Lenten canons, these truths are very apparent:
"Ascending from the dark sorrow of material things, O holy John, thou hast gone to dwell in spiritual light: give me light through thine intercessions to the Lord. "
"Suckled on the sweetness of abstinence, thou hast cast away the bitterness of sensual indulgence; and so, father, thou givest us a pleasure sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. "
"Ascending to the height of the virtues and rejecting the pleasures that creep upon the ground, O holy father, thou hast become the sweetness of salvation to thy flock. "
(all from the matins canon to St John Climacus, Ode 1)
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Scourged By The Whips Of Sin
Understanding Sin And Repentance
2011
SYNOPSIS:We must understand the nature and effect of sin. The Matins canon, especially, in the Triodion, describes this in many important ways. Sin is not so much things we do or do not do, as it is our condition - weakened and often estranged from God. Let us look at the Matins Canon for the 4th week of Great Lent as it continues the Lenten theme of exploring the parable of the prodigal son and understand about the "whips of sin", but looking at 3 stichera form the canon:
"My mind has been scourged by the whips of sin by wicked thieves and evil thoughts. Heal me, Christ my Savior, and save me for Thou art rich in mercy" (Matins Canon, 4th Sunday of Great Lent, Ode 1)
"I have wasted my God-given life on the passions, O Master, and I am fiercely scourged in every part by my transgressions; but I turn to Thee for refuge and I pray: Have pity on me" (Matins Canon, 4th Sunday of Great Lent, Ode 6)
"Scourging my mind with the passions, thieves have seized my wealth and left me as one dead, but take pity on me and save me O Lord. " (Matins Canon, 4th Sunday of Great Lent, Ode 1)
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
What does fasting do
Mark 9:17-31
2011
SYNOPSIS:Why do we fast? Few people understand that we fast because of a requirement of our nature and because of the nature of the demons. "This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting" (Mark. 9:29). Let us understand why we fast and put off all legalism concerning this essential practice.
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son
If Thou Canst Believe All Things Are Possible To Him That Believeth
Mark 9-17-31
2012
Fifth Sunday of Great Lent
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
- 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
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Mary Of Egypt
Who Loves The Most
Luke 7:36-50
2008
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
St Mary of Egypt.
A perfect decription of any true Christian.
Luke 7:36-50
2009
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
St Mary of Egypt.
Two ways to learn to love.
Luke 7:36-50 Mark 10:32-45
2010
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Mary Of Egypt Shows Us How To Repent
How To Cultivate A Repentant Spirit
2011
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:In our continuing series of small homilies between Vespers and matins, based upon the texts of the services, we examine the repentance of St Mary of Egypt, and see how we can emulate it. Her repentance was not a one time, unique event! We must find ways to cultivate a repentant spirit; the hymns discussed today give us much to do to accomplish this.
"The pollution of past sins prevented thee from entering the church to see the elevation of the Holy Cross; but then thy conscience and the awareness of thine actions turned thee, O wise in God, to a better way of life. And, having looked upon the ikon of the blessed Maid of God, thou hast condemned all thy previous transgressions, O Mother worthy of all praise, and so hast gone with boldness to venerate the precious cross" (5th Sunday of Lent, Sat Vespers, Lord I have cried)
"I am held fast in the mire of sin, and there is no strength or courage in me; the tempests of my trespasses hast overwhelmed me. Look upon me, O Virgin, I entreat thee, for thou hast borne the Word who alone loves mankind. Deliver me from every sin, from all the passions that destroy my soul, and from every ill inflicted by the enemy, that I may sing with joy; Intercede with thy Son and God, O undefiled, that remission of transgressions may be given to those who in faith take refuge beneath thy protections." (5th Sunday of Great Lent, Matins, Sessional Hymn after the 3rd Ode)- 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
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel for St Mary of Egypt presents a "riddle" to us: "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.". The Lord tells us she is forgiven because of her love! What does this mean? It is very important to understand. We see in both Gospels 3 examples of what to do or not do to nurture this kind of love.
- The life of St Mary of Egypt examined in light of the Epistles read on her day. (mp3 format)
For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
Hebrews 9:11-14 Galatians 3:23-29
2012
SYNOPSIS:The 2 epistles for the 5th Sunday of Great Lent describe well the life of St Mary of Egypt, and also how we must live. Truly, after her repentance, she "Put on Christ", and had her conscience purged from dead works. We look in some detail at her life and how these scriptures will fulfilled in her life, and must also be fulfilled in ours.
- Learning takes time & a lesson in humility, without which, no learning will occur. (mp3 format)
Mark 10:32-45
2012
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel for the 5th Sunday of Lent not only sets the stage for our Lord's passion, which we will shortly go through on our way to Pascha, but also teaches two important truths. Firstly, learning takes time. This may seem like a simple and obvious truth, but it is often an ignored truth. Second: without humility, there will be no learning at all.
Lazarus Saturday
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Is Now
John 11:1-45
2008
- 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
Children's Homily
John 11:1-45
2010
SYNOPSIS:Homily after liturgy on Lazarus Saturday, with the children enthuistically and usually quite theologically correctly participating.
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
The entrance into holy week and the prophesy of our resurrection.
John 11:1-45
2010
SYNOPSIS:The Saturday of Lazarus is The entrance into holy week and a prophesy of our resurrection. The resurrection of Jesus Christ enables us to have our resurrection. What it the most important part of this story? All that is true, and that is alive is because of Jesus Christ. Our life is to become like Christ. If we become like him, we will have life in ourselves; If not, we will have no life.
- 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
SYNOPSIS:We cannot exhaust all the theological profundity of the story of the resurrection of Lazarus. This short homily after Presanctified liturgy, 3 days before Lazarus Saturday, focuses on just one thing: Martha's interaction with Jesus and the reality that is difficult to fully believe UNLESS it is lived: "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live"
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
"in confirming the common resurrection" and other reasons why Lazarus was raised.
John 11:1-45
2011
SYNOPSIS:After Matins for St Lazarus, a short homily giving examples from the services which detail three of the reasons why the story of the resurrection is so prominent in the Gospel of John, and is read at this time of the year, and the most important reason, from the story itself, why this extremely intimate account of this great miracle of Christ is preserved.
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
Exegesis of the rasising of Lazarus story
John 11:1-45
2011
Palm Sunday
- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
These Things They Did Not Understand At First
John 12:1-18
2008
- Palm Sunday (Word DOC format)
The inner meaning of Palm Sunday.
Philippians 4:4-9 John 12:1-18
2009
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Metacafe,
DailyMotion,
Blip.tv and
VeohSYNOPSIS:The events of Palm Sunday are momentous, but they cannot be understood without understanding the words of the Apostle Paul and contrasting them to the actions of the people who received Jesus joyfully and with shouts of praise as he rode into Jerusalem on a colt, the foal of an ass.- Palm Sunday (HTML format)
Palm Sunday
Why did we read this Epistle? Principles of scriptural exegesis.
Philippians 4:4-9
2010
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mp3 - Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
Palm Sunday
Philippians 4-4-9-John 12-1-18
2011
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
Also in Format:
mp3 SYNOPSIS:A very short homily after Vespers in the vigil for Palm Sunday. The events of Holy week should teach us humility. Many mistakes were made, by those who loved the Lord and those who hated Him. For instance, two prophesies, one from Zechariah, and the other from Jeremiah, were fulfilled to the letter, and the leaders who plotted to destroy Jesus, and who knew the Scripture, were blind to this. Martha and Mary, who loved the Lord, showed deep ingnorance about Who He is. We must learn humility from these examples. - Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
Rejoice In The Lord Alway And Again I Say Rejoice
Philippians 4:4-9
2011
SYNOPSIS:A homily by Deacon Nicholas Park in which he discusses the admonition of the Apostle Paul to "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice". Many if the children of Jerusalem who cried "Hosanna" were worshipping Jesus as the person they *wanted* Him to be, and not as He really is.
- The Lord is at hand! Why do we read this epistle on Palm Sunday, since it is not about suffering, or the cross or the resurrection? (mp3 format)
Philippians 4:4-9 John 12:1-18
2012
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!
Holy Week
Holy Monday
- The cursing of the fig tree teaches that we must bear fruit or we will wither and die and that we have no excuse for our lack of fruit; faith comes from obedience. (mp3 format)
Great Monday Matins
Matins Gospel: Matthew 21:18-43
2012
SYNOPSIS:The whole point of Great and Holy week is to prepare us to fully understand and live in the resurrection - not just during the approaching Pascha, but in all of our life. We must listen to the Gospels and hymns with this objective. In Great Monday Matins, the Gospel contains the story of the fig tree that withered; this very short homily explains the spiritual meaning of this passage. The more obvious teaching of this action of our Lord is that we must bear fruit - growing in the virtues and holiness - or else we will wither away. There is much more: the season in which the Lord cursed the fig tree allows us no excuses for our lack of fruit, and we learn that faith is built upon obedience and the bearing of fruit. "O brethren, let us fear the punishment of the fig tree, / withered because it was unfruitful; / and let us bring worthy fruits of repentance unto Christ, // who grants us His great mercy." (Great Monday Matins, Aposticha, T8)
Holy Tuesday
- Holy Tuesday (HTML format)
Judas with avaricious thoughts, ponders, plots, and accepts the darkness.
The progression of sin into self imposed slavery.
2011
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Six minutes on the progression of sin. Holy Week is not only about the events surrounding the passion of our Lord, but is also a time for introspection and self-amendment. The descent of Judas into the insanity of deicide did not happen all at once, but progressed because of his addiction to a particular passion. We read a sessional hymn from Holy Tuesday Matins, and see how it describes the progression of sin in *our* lives unless we fight to not "accept the darkness". This is VERY important, and applies to EVERYONE.
"Impious Judas with avaricious thoughts plots against the Master, and ponders how he will betray Him. He falls away from the light and accepts the darkness; he agrees upon the payment and sells Him that is above all price; and as the reward of his actions, in his misery he receives a hangman's noose and death in agony. O Christ our God, deliver us from such a fate as his, and grant remission of sins to those who celebrate with love Thy most pure passion." (Sessional Hymn, Tone 8, Holy Tuesday Matins)- Impious Judas with avaricious thoughts ... falls away from the light and accepts the darkness. A warning to us and a way to avoid losing ourselves. (mp3 format)
Great Tuesday Matins
2012
SYNOPSIS:Six and a half important minutes using Judas as an example to teach us how not to "accept the darkness" Commentary on the Sessional Hymn from Great Tuesday Matins: "Impious Judas with avaricious thoughts plots against the Master, / and ponders how he will betray Him. /He falls away from the light and accepts the darkness; / he agrees upon the payment and sells Him that is above all price; / and as the reward for his actions, in his misery / he receives a hangman's noose and death in agony. / O Christ our God, deliver us from such a fate as his, // and grant remission of sins to those who celebrate with love Thy most pure Passion."
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
SYNOPSIS:Six minutes after Holy Wednesday Matins about the comparison between Judas and the woman from Bethany who anointed the Lord. It is important to personalize the actions of these two people, and the service texts give a good example of how to acquire this critical spiritual skill:While the sinful woman brought oil of myrrh, /
the disciple came to an agreement with the transgressors. /
She rejoiced to pour out what was very precious, /
he made haste to sell the One who is above all price. /
She acknowledged Christ as Lord, /
he severed himself from the Master. /
She was set free, but Judas became the slave of the enemy. /
Grievous was his lack of love! /
Great was her repentance! /
Grant such repentance also unto me, //
O Savior who hast suffered for our sake, and save us.
(Praises, Holy Wednesday Matins, Tone 1)
The harlot drew near Thee, O Thou who lovest mankind, /
and poured out on Thy feet the oil of myrrh with her tears; /
and at Thy command she was delivered from the foul smell of her evil deeds. /
But the ungrateful disciple, though he breathed Thy grace, /
rejected it and defiled himself in filth, /
selling Thee from love of money. //
Glory be to Thy compassion, O Christ.
(Sessional Hymn after the 3rd Kathisma, Holy Wednesday Matins, Tone 3, Troparion melody)
- 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
SYNOPSIS:Homily after Holy Wednesday Presanctified Liturgy discussion how the services give us a primer in how to regard our sins and weak repentance. The comparison of Judas and the woman of Bethany is very useful to teach us, and especially the Kontakion at matins which teaches us the essence of Christian honesty, repentance and hope: I have transgressed more than the harlot, O loving Lord, /
yet never have I offered Thee my flowing tears. /
But in silence I fall down before Thee /
and with love I kiss Thy most pure feet, /
beseeching Thee as Master to grant me remission of sins; /
and I cry to Thee, O Savior: //
Deliver me from the filth of my works.
(Kontakion, Tone 4, Holy Wednesday Matins)
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
SYNOPSIS:On Holy Thursday we remember the institution of the Eucharist, and how it is salvific for man - but not for all. Much of our hymnology for this day speaks of Judas and his betrayal of the Lord. If we listen carefully, Judas is not just a historical figure far removed from us, but we will feel deeply that we have dangerous similarities to him. Judas fell into the insanity of deicide because of long-standing passions, and bad choices, In a word, he had bad priorities. This point is "hammered home" in many hymns, such as the one we choose to discuss:
Judas the transgressor at the supper /
dipped his hand into the dish with Thee, O Lord, /
yet sinfully he reached out his hands to receive the money. /
He reckoned up the value of the oil of myrrh, and yet was not afraid to sell Thee who art above all price. /
He stretched out his feet to be washed, yet deceitfully he kissed the Master
and betrayed Him to the breakers of the Law. /
Cast out of the company of the apostles, /
he threw away the thirty pieces of silver, /
and did not see Thy Resurrection on the third day. //
Through this Thy Resurrection have mercy on us.
(Praises, Matins of Holy Thursday, Tone 2)
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
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Brothers and sisters, behold the Man. That is what Pilate said. He also said, "What is truth?"
To "behold the man" is to behold truth, but Pilate didn't notice.
Why was Jesus Christ crucified? Because people did not live according to the truth.
Why was the crowd, the tumult, why was the crown of thorns, the sham trial, the false witnesses? Because people did not live according to truth, and therefore they did not recognize Truth.
When the Scripture says something, we must listen. ...- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Before the tomb and epitaphios.
Behold the man!
Holy Friday Vespers
2010
SYNOPSIS:We must answer the questions that are asked and the commands that are given in Scripture. Before giving up Jesus to judgment, Pilate asked a question: "Behold the man!", and gave a command: "What is truth?" What should be our response to these? Our life hands in the balance, depending on what we answer.
- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Homily before the shroud.
Three reactions to Christ: hate, love, indifference.
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2011
SYNOPSIS:The readings of the narrative of the passion of our Lord give us an understanding of the character of our Lord and our our character. I found, and I am sure many of you found this as well, that last night and this morning as Father was reading, as the Lord stood before Pilate, that my heart was often cold, and my mind wandered. The words from St Ephrem the Syrian really resonate: "All creation was in fear and trembling when the King of Heaven, the Savior, suffered, while we sinners, for whom the Only immortal was given up ever treat this with contempt" What follows is a short discussion of the responses to our Lord during His passion, and at all times: devotion, hatred, and indifference. By Deacon Nicholas Park.
- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Homily Before The Shroud
3 Reactions To Christ Hate Love Indifference
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2011
- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Lamentation Matins Holy Friday
Prophesy Of The Dry Bones
Ezekiel 37-1-14
2012
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.
The Sunamite woman, Abraham and Ezekiel proclaim the resurrection
Holy Saturday Liturgy 2 Kings 4:8-37 Genesis 22:1-18 Ezekiel 37:1-14
2011
SYNOPSIS:We proclaim the resurrection every week in the scriptures read in matins on Sunday. The resurrection is also declared in a hidden way in the OT. On this Holy Saturday, after we have read the Gospel of Matthew in front of the tomb which proclaims the resurrection, let us see how three of the readings we have recently read from the OT proclaim it in a mystical and beautiful way, with examples including Abraham, Ezekiel, and the Sunamite woman.
Crowning
Matins Gospels
Misc
- Misc (mp3 format)
Blessed Is God Who Restest In The Saints
2004
- Misc (HTML format)
About Prayer
2005
- A Spiritual reflection regarding the prayer of an Orthodox Christian priest in front of a late term abortion clinic during the Dallas 40 days for life campaign. (mp3 format)
2011
SYNOPSIS:Personal experience of an Orthodox Christian and priest praying in front of a late term abortion clinic during the 40 days for life campaign, Wednesday, Oct 19, 2011. This is difficult and heavy prayer because outside, on the street, things look normal, but inside some lives are terminated, and many other lives are perhaps irrevocably damaged in terrible ways. A spiritual reflection, including whether we should pray for "them" or "us", and that a Christian must feel responsible for all sin and act upon his inner impulses from the heart, and about praying "one hour", and personalizing the "Akathist for a Woman Who Has Aborted a Child"
- Comments on a billboard message: "Go to sleep giggling!" (mp3 format)
2012
SYNOPSIS:Billboard messages and pop culture show that a chasm exists between the way of life in the world, and the way a Christian should live. Here is one: "Go to sleep giggling!" - an advertisement for TV comedy shows from 9-11pm. We investigate how the world views daily life, and the end of the day, and how a Christian should view it, partially by quoting some important prayers at the end of the "Prayers before sleep".
- Misc (mp3 format)
2012
SYNOPSIS:At St Peter the Aleut Summer camp, which is at Possum Kingdom Lake (Texas) in July each year, we love to have campfires late at night with the youth and talk about stuff. This year, Fr Cassian Sibley came up with a gem, a quote from his grandfather: "It takes a really, REALLY good man to be better than no man at all". This short talk expands on that quote, which is critical for our youth to understand, or else they may "settle" for a marriage to a man (or woman) who is not suitable for them to save their souls and raise good children. There are reliable ways to make sure this DOES NOT HAPPEN. This is important stuff!
- Why does a priest wear black. Joyful mourning, and the remembrance of death. (mp3 format)
2012
SYNOPSIS:An answer to a question posed in a prison visit: "Why do priests wear black?". The answer covers a lot of ground, from prison to abortion clinics to the pain of pastoral ministry and life in general for those who are paying attention, to Johnny Cash, who gave a superficially correct answer to this question, and of critical importance, "Remembrance of death" (which we speak of at some length) and "Joyful mourning"
- Misc (mp3 format)
Ordinary Is Made Extraordinary
2013
Living Water:Commentary on Orthodox Services
- Dragging the Net of the Faith in the Salty Sea of the Passions - The work of the Apostles and an apt metaphor for sin. (mp3 format)
Octoechos, Tone 4, Wednesday Vespers: Lord I Have Cried
2011
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Harrowing Of Hell
Delivered From Deception By His Compassions
Octoechos-Tone-5-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011
- "That the whole evening may be perfect, holy, peaceful and sinless, let us ask of the Lord." Why do we pray this prayer, when past experience tells us that it will not be fulfilled today? (mp3 format)
2011
SYNOPSIS:In the last litany of Vespers and Matins we pray "That the whole evening may be perfect, holy, peaceful and sinless, let us ask of the Lord." Why do we pray this prayer, when past experience tells us that it will not be fulfilled today? Do we mean what we say, or are these just words? We look into the meaning and intent of this prayer and why it is so important. We should understand what we pray, why we pray and what we must do to indicate to the Lord that we mean what we pray.
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Direct Our Prayer As Incense Before Thee
Vespers-Prayer-Of-The-Entry
2011
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Free Among The Dead
Octoechos-Tone-6-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011
Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Pilate and govern me into thy sheltered port for thou art author of good things and staff of the faithful, o thou only all lauded one.
Exegesis of the Irmos and the overall spirit of the canon.
Small Paraklesis Canon Ode 3 Irmos
2011
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Irmos from Ode 3: "I have thee as the shelter and defense of my life, thee the Theotokos and Virgin, pilate and govern me into thy sheltered port for thou art author of good things and staff of the faithful, o thou only all lauded one. " There are many beautiful scriptural allusions here, such as, "shelterd port", "staff of the faithful" (an allusion to the rod of Aaron that budded - a symbol of the Theotkos, which refers to her ever-virginity", "author of good things". We also discuss the spirit of this canon and what is the most important thing to "get out" of it.
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
I came to knowledge of thy works
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-4-Irmos
2011
SYNOPSIS:A meditation on the Irmos for Ode 4 of the Small Paraklesis canon to the Theotokos: "I have hearkened and heard, O Lord, of Thy dispensation's most awesome mystery; and I came to knowledge of Thy works, and I sang the praise of Thy Divinity.". We must feel the rythym of prayer. Our liturgical prayers are not just a message that we give to God but also a message that comes from God. Let us talk about what this phrase "I came to knowledge of thy works" means, and how it is enhanced by the way theparaklesis canon is sung.
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
The Law of God understood in the Orthodox way
Small Paraklesis Canon Ode 5
2011
SYNOPSIS:A meditation on the 5th Ode of the Small Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos, especially about how to understand the law of God. It is not even close to what the West thinks! The following hymns are discussed:
"Lord, enlighten us by Thy precepts and by thy commands; and by the power of Thy lofty arm bestow Thy peace upon us all, since Thou art Friend of man."
"Dissipate the gloom of my trespasses, O bride of God, with the clear brightness of thy radiance; for thou didst bear the Light divine which was before all-time."
"Heal me, O Pure one, of the sickness which the passions bring, and make me worthy of a guardiancy; and by thy prayers intercessions grant thou health to me."
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Understanding the human condition. Elias, Job, Jonas, Moses, David, Peter and many others in Scripture recognized their corruption and need for God. Neurotic to the world but completely normal and essential to the Christian.
"Demonic audacity"
Small Paraklesis Canon Ode 6
2011
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of the entire 6th Ode of the Paraklesis Canon. How to look at the human condition. Elias, Job, Jonas, Moses, David, Peter and many others in Scripture recognized their corruption and need for God. This is nuerotic to the world but completely normal and essential to the Christian. Also a detailed converstation about "demonic audacity"
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
From My Youth Do Many Passions War Against Me
Hymns-Of-Ascent-Tone-4
2011
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
I Shall Commemorate Thy Name In Every Generation And Generation
The True Church Remembers The Theotokos
Prokeimenon
2011
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Gospel For The Theotokos
Small-Paraklesis-Gospel-Reading-Luke 1-39-49
2011
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Godly Sorrow
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Hymns-After-The-Gospel
2011
The Psalter
- "Blessed are the blameless in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord" Psalm 118:1 What is the way? (HTML format)
Psalm 118:01
2012
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Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:Homily on Psalm 118:01: Blessed are the blameless in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. What is the way? - "Blessed are they that search out His testimonies; with their whole heart shall they seek after Him." Psalm 118:2 (Word DOC format)
Psalm 118:02
2012
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Psalm 118. Verse 2- "For they that work iniquity have not walked in his ways." Commentary on Psalm 118:3. The reason for EVERY problem we have. What are the "ways" of God? (Word DOC format)
Psalm 118:03
2012
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Psalm 118, Verse 3. The reason for EVERY problem we have. What are the "ways" of God?
Notes for this passage are found here in word or pdf format - "Thou hast enjoined Thy commandments, that we should keep them most diligently" Purpose of the commandments & how to stay diligent? (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:04
2012
SYNOPSIS:Meditation on Psalm 118:04. The commandments are not arbitrary; they have a purpose. What is diligence (it has two parts) and how do we maintain it? Notes for this passage are found here in word or pdf format- "Would that my ways were directed to keep Thy statutes." How to "wish" for something. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:05
2012
SYNOPSIS:A meditation on Psalm 118:05, "Would that my ways were directed to keep Thy statutes." How does a Christian properly "wish" for something? What must we do to be ready for the change to happen?
- "Then shall I not be ashamed, when I look on all Thy commandments." Psalm 118:6 Shame gives way to illumination. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:06
2012
SYNOPSIS:Homily on Psalm 118:06: Then shall I not be ashamed, when I look on all Thy commandments. Shame gives way to illumination.
- "I will confess Thee with uprightness of heart, when I have learned the judgments of Thy righteousness." Two kinds of confession, but only one is righteous. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:07
2012
SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Psalm 118:07. There are two kinds of confession of God. How do we learn to do the one that is righteous? Also the Christian understanding of the judgments of God.
- "I will keep thy statutes; do not utterly forsake me." The Grace of God may depart for a season, but never His mercy. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118-08
2012
SYNOPSIS:Psalm 118:08 introduces a difficult concept: the grace of God (His abiding presence) may depart from the soul for a season, for many different reasons, known only to God, for the strengthening of the soul, but His mercy is never absent. Examples of this process are seen clearly in the lives of the Prophet Elias and Apostle Peter. The courageous Christian embraces the inevitability that He will chasten whom He loveth, although, being of weak flesh, even the courageous need reassurance. This is not disbelief, but rather a part of our human condition.
- "Wherewithal shall a young man correct his way? By keeping Thy words." (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:09
2012
SYNOPSIS:A meditation on Psalm 118:09, "Wherewithal shall a young man correct his way? By keeping Thy words." for something? This is a process, and not cicular reasoning. The Christian law of attraction.
- "With my whole heart have I sought after Thee, cast me not away from Thy commandments." Hyperbole and a plea. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:10
2013
SYNOPSIS:A meditation on Psalm 118:10, "With my whole heart have I sought after Thee, cast me not away from Thy commandments." How should we understand absolute statements that are false? They are a plea for help to make the statement true. Also a short discussion of the use of hyperbole in our prayers.
- "In my heart have I hid Thy sayings that I might not sin against Thee." There is power against sin when the heart treasures the things of God. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:11
2013
SYNOPSIS:Homily on Psalm 118:11, part of our series. This verse is a promise. When the heart treasures the things of God, there is great power against sin and for virtue. We look to the Theotokos as an example.
- "Blessed art Thou, O Lord, teach me Thy statutes" Learn the statutes by learning (living) the resurrection. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:12
2013
SYNOPSIS:Homily on Psalm 118:12: "Blessed art Thou, O Lord, teach me Thy statutes" The preceding verses are a promise and prerequisite before God will agree to teach us His statues, that is, reveal Himself to us by grace. We must promise to seek after the Lord with all our heart, and desire to treasure all we learn of Him in our heart, and then, God will be attracted to our zeal, and visit us, and teach us His statutes. It is significant that we sing this verse several times in the Evlogitaria of the Resurrection (sung in Sunday matins). Following the reliable principle that the New Testament (and the church, whose life is described in it) interprets the Old, we must therefore live in the resurrection if we are to "entice" God to visit us and teach us about Himself. These words are radical for many, but well understood by true Christian ascetics. Read this psalm daily, and try to live according to it, and you will also understand.
- "With my lips have I declared all the judgments of Thy mouth." A superlative statement is a lie, and a plea. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:13
2013
SYNOPSIS:"With my lips have I declared all the judgments of Thy mouth" is the 13th verse of Psalm 118. It is a superlative statement, and therefore, when we say it we are liars, but God loves our sweet sadness, repentance, and expectant longing as we make an earnest plea in the form of a statement of fact. Only Jesus Christ can say this verse with authority, and in fact, this Psalm describes Him, who certainly declared all the judgments from the Fathers mouth.
- "In the way of Thy testimonies have I found delight, as much as in all riches." Constant comparisions and the remembrance of death. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:14
2013
SYNOPSIS:"In the way of Thy testimonies have I found delight, as much as in all riches." a meditation on Psalm 118:14. We must understand what the "way" is and what the testimonies of God are. The Psalmist is describing the constant comparisons we must be making, and the remembrance of death. This cannot understood by study; it is only understood by experience.
- "On thy commandments will I ponder, and I will understand thy ways" Psalm 118:15. How does one "ponder"? (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:15
2013
SYNOPSIS:Homily on Psalm 118:15. How does one "ponder"? This is a learned skill, and like all skills, requires frequent work and some planning.
Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
Part 01
2012
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
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
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
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