Eastern Orthodox Christian sermons on the Sunday Readings, Feasts and other Scriptures SORTED BY DATE
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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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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
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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
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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
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All Saints Of Russia
All Christians must leave their nets.
1999
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All Saints Of Russia
2000
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"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
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All Saints of Russia
You are not alone!
Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2008
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- 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
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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)
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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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The Healing of the Gergesenes demoniacs
Every occurence in our life is a meeting with Christ.
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2008
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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
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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
Also in Format:
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
Also in Format:
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
Also in Format:
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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- "But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein..." What is the &law of liberty"? (mp3 format)
James 1:19-27
2014-01-23
SYNOPSIS:The "law of liberty" is a law unlike any other. God follows this law, and we must also. Our entire life, if it is lived well, will be spent obtaining (and not just following) this law. what is it? How do we obtain it? This is important - CENTRAL to the Christian life.
- Why a Theophany at the baptism of Christ? For the same reason that the Trinity was present at the creation of man. Deep and beautiful theology about baptism, and the image of God in man. (mp3 format)
Matthew 3:13-17 Titus 2:11-14,3:4-7
2014-01-19
- "Christ has appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters." Exegesis of the Pre-festival Troparion for theophany, and WHY THE THEOPHANY at the baptism of Christ? (mp3 format)
2014-01-18
SYNOPSIS:What happened at the baptism of Christ? The pre-festival troparion explains it. Why did the Theophany (appearance the Holy Triniy) occur at the baptism of Christ? This is central to the purpose of the reason Christ was baptized, and how we are made - we differ from animals and angels in a critical way, which is mystically described at the baptism of Christ.
- Why these 3 today, the Sunday after Nativity? What can we learn? Short lives of David the King, Joseph the Betrothed & James the Brother of the Lord. (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2014-01-12
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after Nativity, we remember David the King, Joseph the Betrothed & James the Brother of the Lord. Why? There are good spiritual reasons. what can the life of each teach us about how to live?
- Jesus asks a question to the scribes and demonstrates there is no existence or power in evil. (mp3 format)
Length: 3:56
Mark 11:27-33
2014-01-09
SYNOPSIS:When the scribes asked Jesus a question, He asked them one in return - a simple question, easily answered by an honest man. Their scheming and refusal to answer the question shows the utter powerlessness and even non-existence of evil. Those who lie have no power.
- "They departed into their own country another way" The incarnation provides us another way! We are born for to live, not die. (mp3 format)
Matthew 2:1-12 Galatians 4:4-7
2014-01-07
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel on Nativity does *not* contain anything about the day of the birth of Christ, but rather is something that happened perhaps weeks after: the visit of the wise men. There is a very important reason why - it is similar to the reason we do not directly reference the resurrection on Pascha. The Nativity of Christ (the incarnation) does not change us unless we chose *another way* of living. The decision of the wise men, after they worshipped Christ: "And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way." - teaches us that the incarnation is precisely so that we can live our lives in *another way* - not as mere men, but as "God-men". who have been adopted as sons of God.
- The kindness of Joseph and faith of our Fathers. Sunday before Nativity. (mp3 format)
Sunday of the Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2014-01-05
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Nativity, we read form the beginning of Matthew and the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews. We can learn much from the kindness of Joseph, and the patience of our Fathers. Without kindness and patience, we will not experience God, or know him. Lets us learn from their example.
- "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name... shall not lose his reward." How to evaluate our actions and why we should do good. (mp3 format)
Mark 9:33-41
2014-01-02
SYNOPSIS:Mark 9:33-41 is the Gospel that famously refers to St Ignatius the God-bearer, but this is just a historical footnote. This gospel contains one of those verses that has been life-changing for me. We all should have such verses, and they are different for different people. If you do not have any, or very few, you do not read the Gospels enough. The verse: "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward." We must learn to not evaluate our actions by whether they are successful (in our eyes) or not. Most of what we do in life will not appear successful, or permanent, but God remembers everything.
- Healing of the ten lepers. Gratitude makes one whole. (mp3 format)
Luke 17:12-19
2013-12-22
SYNOPSIS:There is great power and energy in gratitude. It is fundamental part of the Christian life, and absolutely necessity if we are to "be made whole" - and this is the aim and purpose of human life. We look at the two healings in the healing of the ten lepers. All were healed of leprosy but only one was made whole. Let us learn how to inculcate gratitude in practical ways in our life. We also speak briefly on the Jesus prayer and how it should be a model for our prayer.
- 29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
All Things That Are Reproved Are Made Manifest By The Light For Whatsoever Doth Make Manifest Is Light
Ephesians 5-9-19
2013-12-21
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Ephesians 5:9-19. There are moral requirments placed upon a Christian - things he should do and not do. Why? This passage explains. It also, in a mystical way explains the reason for confusion and despondency and similar ailments thay are common in modern man: "All things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light."
- The Great Supper is about the Incarnation and the common reactions to it. It also gives the only way to be saved: URGENCY! (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers The Great Supper
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 14-16-24
2013-12-20
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great supper is read 2 Sundays before Nativity. It describes the Incarnation, and men's common reaction to it. The complimentary Epistle describes the way we should react. The Gospel also describes the virtue which we must have to be saved, whether we are good or bad - URGENCY!
- The rich young ruler. Questions not to ask: "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (mp3 format)
Luke 18:18-27
2013-12-15
SYNOPSIS:There are questions we should never ask and things we should never say that are in the Scriptures - as an example to us, to teach us that we should know better. One of these questions is asked today by the Rich Young Ruler: "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?". The response of Jesus makes it clear this is a bad question. why is this a bad question and what should we know and how should we live so that we do not ask this (often asked) question?
- "And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them..."Understanding is a *process*! (mp3 format)
Luke 18:31-34
2013-12-05
SYNOPSIS:Although Jesus told His disciples plainly about His upcoming arrest, trial and death, they did not believe or understand Him; the Gospel mysteriously says "They understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them". Why was it hidden? We can learn much about ourselves and others by meditating upon this, and we will learn about the mystery of learning spiritual things, sin, patience and labor.
- "And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?" In the parable of the Harvest Of The Rich Man, a question we should never ask but must answer. (mp3 format)
Harvest of the Rich Man
26th Sunday after Pentecost or 9th Sunday of Luke
Luke 12:16-21 Ephesians 2:4-10
2013-12-01
SYNOPSIS:There are questions in Scripture we should never ask, but must answer (we must answer all questions in Scripture!). For example, in the Gospel today, the parable of the harvest of the rich man, wondering about his harvest, "He thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?" We answer this important question, and also bring in the words of the Apostle Paul read today which apply: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." We were born to become good, and do good, because God is good. If we do not understand this, we have not understood Christianity.
- "No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Timothy of Esphigmenou. (mp3 format)
8th Saturday of Luke or 26th Saturday after Pentecost
Timothy of Esphigmenou
Luke 9:57-62
2013-11-30
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel of Luke today gives the answers of Jesus to 3 who wish to follow him, but do not. His answers apply to many of us, even those who consider themselves to be in the church. The last answer also reminds us of the wonderful martyr Timothy of Esphigmenou.
- "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing" What should a Christian give thanks for? (mp3 format)
1 Thessalonians 2:9-14
2013-11-28
SYNOPSIS:On the day of the American Holiday of Thanksgiving it is appropriate to celebrate the Eucharist (which means the giving of thanks), and to thank God for all things. The words of the Apostle Paul read today are also appropriate and will give us opportunity to discuss what the world gives thanks for, and what a Christian should thank God for, and how to learn to give thanks in this way: "... we thank God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe."
- "And who is my neighbor?" A question we should never ask, but must answer every moment if we are to be saved. (mp3 format)
Luke 10:25-37 Galatians 6:11-18
2013-11-24
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the Good Samaritan was told in response the tragic question by the lawyer, "Who is my neighbor" A Christian must never need to ask this questions, but must be answering it every moment in order to be saved. It is clear from the way we live our lives that many, and even we ourselves, do not know the answer to this question! How do we learn to love our neighbor and why is it so important?
- You must learn how to touch Christ! The healing of the woman with an issue of blood. (mp3 format)
Luke 8:41-56
2013-11-17
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the woman with an issue of blood is told as a parenthetical story within the story of the raising from the dead of the daughter of Jairus, but it is the most important of the two, and contains the greatest miracle. This is a miracle which all of us MUST have, and alas, very few of us experience. A woman who was an outcast, a sufferer from the human condition, was touched by Jesus, because she reached out to Him in faith. This touching is necessary for eternal life. We must cultivate being touched by Jesus. How do we learn to day by day, minute by minute, to reach out to Jesus, and *feel* His touch?
- Beatitudes in Luke. Learn to weep to have joy. "Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh." (mp3 format)
10th Friday after Pentecost
Gospel for Holy Monks, many Hieromartyrs and Hierarchs.
Luke 6:17-23
2013-11-10
SYNOPSIS:The Beatitudes in Luke are read more than any other Gospel selection during the year. We go over each of the 4 beatitudes,. concentration on weeping. The world does not understand the power of weeping; it weeps about the wrong things. The Christian must learn to weep properly; this weeping both increase and be increased by poverty of spirit and hunger. It is not possible to make progress in the spiritual life without weeping. The Gospel insists that the one who does this will laugh; this is true joy, not just worldly and temporal happiness, and it cannot be taken from us. "Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh."
- Christology 101: Grace, The descent into Hades,unity, salvation and being truly human DEFINED PROPERLY - it is all in here: Ephesians 4:7-13 (mp3 format)
Ephesians 4:7-13
2013-11-07
SYNOPSIS:Ephesians 4:7-13 is a virtual primer on some of the most import Christological subjects. It is read on the Sunday after Theophany, and also for certain Saints in the Menaion, such As Oct 25 (Marcian & Martyrius, notaries). In this short passage we learn of the descent into Hades, and see salvation, Unity and being truly human defined properly. St Paul is expressing thoughts dear to all Eastern Orthodox Christians, and sometimes not understood so well in the West. We look at these amazing verses: "Every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ" "He led captivity captive" "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ"
- Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. It teaches awareness! How do we learn to be aware when a Lazarus crosses our path? (mp3 format)
Luke 16:19-31
2013-11-03
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus contains an important detail that we must be "aware" of - AWARENESS. The Rich man knew Lazarus by name, but his sinful life made him blind to the suffering of Lazarus until it was too late for him. How many times in our lives have we passed a "Lazarus"? We must learn to become aware. Practical ways to achieve this essential virtue are discussed.
- "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." "He touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still" The Jesus prayer theologically explained. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16
2013-10-20
SYNOPSIS:The resurrection of the Son of the Widow of Nain, and the famous "Hall of faith", from Hebrews, was read today. Both contain important mystical references to the Jesus prayer. The solution to everything is before us! This is exciting news! The whole Gospel is contained in the sublime words of Paul: "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." It is really this simple! Simple is not easy, but is becomes easy. the theological basis of the Jesus prayer is explained here, and combined with the actions of those in the funeral procession: "And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still", show us the sure and simple way to the resolution of all of our problems.
- "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:" The way of the cross is to choose to not make a choice! It is the easy and light way! (mp3 format)
Sunday after the Exaltaiton of the Holy Cross.
"The things I used to do, I don't do no more"
Galatians 2:16-20
2013-09-29
SYNOPSIS:When the Apostle Paul exclaims extravagantly: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:", he is teaching us how to think, and how we think determine what we become. If we live by this amazing statement. we choose to give up our will, and therefore refuse to choose to sin. This is the light and easy way compared to the way of the world. The cross is not an instrument of suffering and the way of the cross is the only way that leads to happiness. We must understand the words of the apostle if we are to fully give up our will to this way. In so explaining, we even quote an old Blues song, whose secular wisdom directly applies to our choosing to be crucified with Christ: "The things I used to do, I don't do no more"
- "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." What is saving belief? Is is hard to do? (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 03
Mark 16:9-20
2013-09-28
- Jesus connects the cross to love by saying "He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." followed immediately by "whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water ...shall in no wise lose his reward." (mp3 format)
Saturday before the Exaltation of the Cross
Matthew 10:37-11-1
2013-09-26
SYNOPSIS:The way of the Cross is to love. Jesus makes this connection, not in so many words, but nonetheless, emphatically for those who understand by stating quot;He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." followed immediately by "Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water ...shall in no wise lose his reward." The giving of water is symbolic for a particular kind of love that a Christian must have if he is to truly a Christian.
- "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." What does the world vs. Christians glory in? (mp3 format)
Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross
Galatians 6:11-18
2013-09-22
SYNOPSIS:"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." The world and true Christians "glory" in different things. What does a Christian "glory" in, how does he cultivate the proper things to "glory" in and what does this mean: "by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."?
- "And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid" Why were brave people afraid, and other important details in the 2nd Sunday Matinal Gospel. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 02
Mark 16:1-8
2013-09-21
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday Matinal Gospels are particularly rich in details. In the second Gospel, Mark 16:1-8, we have several important details; they can teach us many things about ourselves and our Christian life. for instance, why were brave people afraid? This is a really important detail. They were not afraid to confront the Jews or the guards, but the empty tomb and the words of the angel made them tremble, and they did fully follow his instructions. Why? there are other important details, such as their question as they approached the tomb, and the important instruction of the angel to tell Peter the news. All of this is not just history, it is a description of your life too.
- "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." "This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church." Sunday of Marriage, Family & Loyalty, 2013 (mp3 format)
Genesis 2:24 Ephesians 5:32
2013-09-16
SYNOPSIS:The "Sunday of Marriage, Family and Loyalty" is celebrated every year in September in the Russian Orthodox church. This homily attempts to explain the unexplainable - the Mystery of Marriage and the Church. We discuss how we can learn to give our will to another, and thus become like Christ. We cannot be saved unless we learn to give our will to another, and marriage is among the best estates in life to learn this.
- "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." Voluntary and involuntary submission. Matins Gospel 1. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 01
Matthew 28:16-20
2013-09-14
SYNOPSIS:The 1st Matinal Gospel has an incredible statement if it is understand according to its deep spiritual meaning: "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." This is more than it seems to be! We examine involuntary submission, which applies to all men, and voluntary submission, which is only possible because of the incarnation and resurrection.
- "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death." How to know which is which and how to cultivate godly sorrow. (mp3 format)
2 Corinthians 7:1-10
2013-09-12
SYNOPSIS:The world is filled with sorrow, and all of it leads to death. Let us learn what Godly sorrow is, and how to cultivate it.
- "Have patience with me and I will pay Thee all." Parable of the unmerciful debtor teaches us practical knowledge to help us forgive others. (mp3 format)
Matthew 18:23-35
2013-09-08
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the unmerciful debtor teaches us practical knowledge to help us forgive others. We present many practical ways of thinking and acting that help us forgive others, based upon the mystical meaning of the parable.
- "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find." What is the right side? Matinal Gospel 10 (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 10
John 21:1-14
2013-08-31
SYNOPSIS:The 10th Matinal Gospel is the story about the Apostles fishing, and Christ encountering them on the shore. He told them: "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. " In our minimalist, benighted and politically correct age, we must understand clearly what the "right side" is. There are other nuances to this first half of this story that are very important to our life, as they apply directly to the way we grow and change.
- "We are labourers together with God" & "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? " The privilege & responsibilty of being a Christian. (mp3 format)
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2013-08-25
SYNOPSIS:To be a Christian is to do Godlike things, to labor together with God. We discuss the great privilege and responsibility of the Christian, elucidated by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:9-17; essentially, God expects the Christian to act like God!
- "Jesus saith unto them, Peace be unto you." "Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." The two are related! (mp3 format)
Matinal Gospel 9
John 20:19-31
2013-08-24
SYNOPSIS:The 9th Matinal Gospel, John 20:19-31, is about a lot of things, but since it has the story of the doubt of Thomas, it seems that the critically important things before this story get neglected in homilies. We talk about them here, especially the incredible promise (and command!) that we will be like God, and do the things of God. This is inherent in the command and promise of Jesus: "Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." There are many other things of God that have been delegated to man and we must know them. Also, the first words Jesus spoke to the gathered disciples on the day of the resurrection were "Peace be unto you". this is VERY significant, and very much related to the things of God that we are ordered to do.
- Pride is the problem, it is why we do not see things as they are. The only solution is to be the servant of others. (mp3 format)
Matthew 20:17-28
2013-08-22
SYNOPSIS:The Lord plainly told his disciples about his upcoming crucifixion. They did not understand His plain words. Why. This is a very important question, and the Gospel today answers it. Immediately after plainly for the umpteenth time telling his misunderstanding disciples about His upcoming passion, the mother of James and John came with an absurd and prideful request, and the other disciples, whose pride was tweaked, became angry. thje Lord used this as a "teachable moment," and uttered the famous and important words: " whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." The juxtaposition of these 3 things is important. The Apostles did not understand the Lord's clear prophesies concerning Himself because their pride blinded them, and diminished their intelligence. So it is with us. Much of the reality of life, things we should know, passes by us because our pride blinds us to truth. The only path to wisdom and knowledge is humility and the golden path to humility is serving others, with the proper attitude of a servant.
- The Feeding of the five thousand: Give ye them to eat: happiness is only possible if we do not think of ourselves. (mp3 format)
Matthew 14:14-22
2013-08-18
SYNOPSIS:The Feeding of the 5000 is not only a historical event, and a miracle; it is a command to each of us. If we do not follow this command we will never be happy. the entire story can be summarized by:" This is a desert place ... Give ye then to eat... end they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full" We are often unhappy because of our circumstances. We define happiness as good things that happen to us, but the Lord shows us not only a better way, but the only way: "Give ye them to eat" The results of following this command are mystically shown by the abundance of leftovers. Let us learn to head this command.
- "Woman, why weepest thou .. Jesus saith unto her, Mary" Matins Gospel 8 tells us that Jesus is always calling our name; when we recognize Him, we stop weeping. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 08
John 20:11-18
2013-08-17
SYNOPSIS:In Matins Gospel 8, John 10:11-18, Mary Magdalene is at the tomb weeping, and Christ appears and asks her "Woman, why weepest thou?" We must answer ALL questions in Scripture - this question is also for us. What will you answer and how will your weeping be stopped? In the Gospel, as in life, Mary stopped weeping when she recognized Jesus, when he called her "Mary" This Gospel is our life in microcosm. We weep because we do not see Christ, but He is always calling our name and right by us; when we recognize him, we no longer weep.
- "According to your faith be it unto you." "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." Faith explained. (mp3 format)
Romans 15:1-7 Matthew 9:27-35
2013-08-11
SYNOPSIS:In the healing of the two blind men Jesus exclaimed: "According to your faith be it unto you". This is the case for everyone; God answers our prayers and heals us according to our faith. That begs the question: what is faith? The Epistle for today explains the matter. We have faith if we live as and become like Christ, Who only thought of others. If we are in any way self-centered, we do not have true faith. The Apostle Paul explains that "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.".
- Matins Gospel 7: "For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead." Why did they not know? It is the same reason we do not know. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 07
John 20:1-10
2013-08-10
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Matins Gospel 7, John 20:1-10, with emphasis on what can teach the soul. We do not care about all the historical details as much as we care about how our souls can be profited by noting the bravery and humility of Mary Magdalene, about judgment of others, and why it would be stated concerning pious men who were very conversant with the Scriptures, that: "For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead."
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
They Brought To Him A Man Sick Of The Palsy
Bear Ye One Anothers Burdens And So Fulfil The Law Of Christ
Matthew 9-1-8
2013-08-04
- "Peace be unto you." "Then opened He their understanding that they might understand the scriptures." (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 06
Luke 24-36-53
2013-08-03
- "What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?" A question we must continually ask. Here is the answer. (mp3 format)
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2013-07-28
SYNOPSIS:What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? This question must be answered by everyone, ALL the time! Here is the answer. When we examine why the people of the Gadarenes rejected Jesus, and why we sin, in every case, it is because we substitute a false joy for the joy that Jesus prayers that we have: That they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
- "Did not our heart burn within us?" Here is the Christian life explained. What does it mean to have the heart burn? (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 05, The Road to Emmaus
Luke 24:12-35
2013-07-27
SYNOPSIS:Matins Gospel five, The Road to Emmaus, in Luke, is an explanation of the Christian life of anyone. We labor with ignorance and negative thoughts among our greatest adversaries, but in the true Christian, the heart is always burning. What does this mean? How do we continue to have our heart burn, and why?
- "The light of the body is the eye." Unbridled desire always causes anxity. (mp3 format)
Matthew 6:22-33
2013-07-14
SYNOPSIS:There is always a subtext to Jesus' commands to us. In the case of His command to "Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on", this command is preceded by a discussion about desire, in which He tells us "The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light." and He warns us that we cannot serve God and mammon. This juxtaposition of teaching about desire and the commandment to not be anxious should cause a "Eureka!" moment for us - unbridled desire ALWAYS leads to anxiety. We look at this in detail .
- "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." The calling of the Apostles teaches us that everything is spiritual. (mp3 format)
Matthew 4:18-23
2013-07-07
SYNOPSIS:The calling of the Apostles Peter and Andrew and James and John occurs relatively early in the Gospel of Matthew. We "break" a few homiletic rules to muse about this Gospel selection just as we would when reading it prayerfully at home. The key point in all this is that everything in life is spiritual, and we must learn to see this. We illustrate this with mentioning of nets, and that the Lord chose fishermen to follow Him. There is much more here, because unlike in a sermon when we usually try to hone in on one point, we gather many drops of wisdom when reading Scripture.
- "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink" How to cultivate thirst for the Holy Spirit, given on Pentecost. (mp3 format)
John 7:37-52,8:12
2013-06-23
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel reading for Pentecost includes: "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink" and "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." We must *learn* to thirst for the Holy Spirit and for light. This is not innate in our sinful condition. How do we learn to thirst? We must combine (and search for) knowledge about our condition and its weaknesses, and effort, borne of faith, to walk in the light. This does not just happen, as we be-bop through life. May God help us to thirst for Him, may we dedicate ourselves to learning ever more to thirst for Him.
- 7th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
John 16-23-33
2013-06-20
- "That they may be one as we are" & "That they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves" - salvation defined as the reintegration of the powers of the soul. (mp3 format)
7th Sunday of Pascha, Holy Fathers of the first Ecumenical council
John 17:1-13
2013-06-16
SYNOPSIS:First, a little bit of basic literacy about the First Ecumenical council and Jesus' emphatic expressions of unity and equality with His Father. We then emphasize how Jesus' unity with the Father is the model for our salvation - the powers of the soul - the appetitive, knowledge and irascible - are integrated in the soul in perfect unity with each other, as God is one with Himself. This is important stuff - it is salvation defined in a very deep and mystical way, and you should be aware of it happening in you
- "Why stand ye gazing up into heaven?" When God gives grace, we must act upon it. (mp3 format)
Ascension
Acts 1:1-12
2013-06-15
SYNOPSIS:We need to understand the 3 main dogmas taught in the Ascension - this is basic biblical literacy. After this, we must apply these dogmas to our daily lives. This is the command given to the apostles and to us, which is implicit in the question the angels asked them: "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven?" God gives us grace to be acted upon.
- Courage and honesty. Without courage, you will bever get anywhere. Without honesty, you will never have courage. (mp3 format)
Sunday of the Blind Man
John 9:1-38
2013-06-09
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the blind man gives us deep insight into the process of enlightenment. We can learn much from the courage and honesty of the blind man.
- A feastday for all us Samaritans. Do you hear the conversation? Sunday of the Samaritan Woman, John 4:5-42 (mp3 format)
John 4:5-42
2013-06-03
SYNOPSIS:The conversation and conversion of the Samaritan woman by the well, recorded only in John, is the conversation of Christ with the soul. This is good news for us, as the future Equal to the Apostles Photini (Svetlana) was not a good woman - she had many sins - and we are not good either, however, she listened to the Lord, even as He sternly corrected her false beliefs and immoral lifestyle. The same conversation is happening to us, every day. Are you listening? Do you know how to listen? St Photini teaches us.
- Exegesis of the Gospel of the Healing of the Paralytic by the sheep's pool (mp3 format)
Paralytic By The Sheeps Pool
Exegesis
John 5:1-15
2013-05-26
SYNOPSIS:The Scripture has two basic meanings, the apparent meaning, and the spiritual meaning. We need to understand the former well in order to be fully taught the spiritual meaning of Scripture. The apparent meaning involves the basic story, context, symbolism, typology and history. We must understand this well, and this takes some work and repetition, just as one must know vocabulary and syntax well to understand fine poetry. The apparent meaning rarely is the subject of a sermon in church, because the pastor is trying to teach important spiritual truths, but on this occasion, before matins, we will look at the symbolism, typology and other aspects of the apparent meaning of the story of the healing of the Paralytic by sheep's pool.
- Why did the Myrhhbearers go to the tomb to annoint a dead man? Because of the ache for God in their heart. (mp3 format)
The Holy Myrhhbearing Women and Joseph and Nicodemus.
Mark 15:43-16:8
2013-05-19
SYNOPSIS:First I discuss the feeling that temporal feast of Pascha is passing and I did not "get enough" out of it. I was not aware enougph that there was holiness all around me and I did not catch it, apprehend it. This is related to not having enbough of the virtue on full displkay in the explolites of the Myrhbearers and Joseph and Nicodemus. they had an ache for God in their hearts, and this ache made them give their best to god, even though they had many obstacles, such as the stone, the soldiers, the murderous Jewish leaders, and above all, that they believed that their Messiah was dead. They overcame their obstacles because of the ache in their heart. We have many obnstacles too; the only way that they will be overcome is if you cultivate the ache for God in your heart.
- Thomas is just like us in at least one way; it must be in two ways if we are to be saved. (mp3 format)
Thomas Sunday
John 20:19-31
2013-05-12
SYNOPSIS:The Apostle Thomas is a perfect example of how we are, deep inside. We have doubts, problems, unresolved issues. We must follow his example to resolve all these problems. We also talk about the closing of the doors in the altar on Bright Saturday night, and what it means. It is VERY related to the story of Thomas, which must become our story if we are to be saved.
- Homily by Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus, read every year after Holy Saturday Matins, in our parish. (mp3 format)
Holy Saturday Matins
2013-05-04
SYNOPSIS:A homily by Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus on the burial of the Divine Body of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Joseph of Arimathea, and on the descent of the Lord into Hades which, after His saving Passion, wonderously ensued on the Holy and great SaturdayA homily on the burial of the Divine Body of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Joseph of Arimathea, and on the descent of the Lord into Hades which, after His saving Passion, wondrously ensued on the Holy and great Saturday. Read from the Lamentations of Matins, pub by Holy Transfiguration Monastery, Boston MA
- The Entry into Jerusalem teaches how to be like a child and be saved. (mp3 format)
Palm Sunday
Matthew 21:1-11,15-17
2013-04-28
SYNOPSIS:During the entry into Jerusalem, there was a marked contrast: the children praised Jesus and proclaimed Him as God with great joy, but the leaders were "sore displeased". Why were they so indignant? It was because of their sins and passions, especially their anger and pride. They teach us how to be like children and have joy, if we will listen. It is clear that any unrepented of sin makes us like the leaders, incapable of accepting the Lord into our Jerusalem - our soul, and feeling joy. Let us learn how to be like children by observing their behavior
- The raising of Lazarus and our sins. (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
2013-04-27
SYNOPSIS:The raising of Lazarus has many important things in it, but none is as important as the application of this reality to our own lives. We look at how the church thinks about the raising of Lazarus and our sins and passions all in the same breath. The dialogue between Martha and Jesus should look familiar to us - we think this way too! Let us learn to live powerfully, fully understanding such hymns as: "Thou hast raised Lazarus on the fourth day, though his corpse already stank. Raise me up, O Christ, for I am dead in sin and lie in the pit and the dark shadow of death; deliver me and save me in Thy compassion." "O Master, Thou hast raised a dead man bound in grave clothes, a corpse that already stank. I am held fast in the bonds of sin; raise me up and I shall sing: O God of our fathers, blessed art Thou."
- "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little" - Relationship between repentance, gratitude, and action. (mp3 format)
The life of St Mary of Egypt and the Gospel for female martyrs.
Luke 7:36-50
2013-04-21
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel read for St Mary of Egypt is the same as we read for female martyrs - the sinful woman who washed the feet of Jesus. This Gospel and the life of St Mary teach us the relationship between repentance, gratitude and action. Without the latter two, there is NO repentance.
- The Greatest miracle in the life of St Mary of Egypt. (mp3 format)
2013-04-20
SYNOPSIS:The life of St Mary of Egypt is filled with amazing miracles. Which is the greatest? Without s doubt, it is one that most will not mention. Let us look at the first 17 years of her repentance and learn of the mercy of God. We must apply this lesson to our own repentance.
- "See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16 Redeeming the time..." Plain and simple: are you doing this? Do you know how to do it? (mp3 format)
Ephesians 5:9-19
2013-04-14
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday for St John Climacus (of the Ladder), Ephesians 5:9-19 describes the process by which a person becomes perfected. This is not just for monks. Let's check ourselves: how much of our life is the pursuit of "goodness and righteousness and truth", how much are we "redeeming the time"?
- The healing of the paralytic borne of four; what is the press and how do we defeat it? (mp3 format)
Mark 2:1-12
2013-03-31
SYNOPSIS:In the healing of the paralytic borne of four, the helpers of the paralytic could not reach Jesus because of the press (the crowd), and with great effort and ingenuity, found a way to present their friend before Jesus by making a hole in the roof. The "press" has deep theological meaning. It can be described by several words starting with "P": PASSIONS, PRIORITIES, PEOPLE, our PAST and PATTERNS in our life. We look at each of these, with much practical advice about defeating them.
- "On thy commandments will I ponder, and I will understand thy ways" Psalm 118:15. How does one "ponder"? (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:15
2013-03-30
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.
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Can There Any Good Thing Come Out Of Nazareth
Come And See
John 1-43-51
2013-03-24
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Forty Martyrs Of Sebaste
Matthew 20-1-16
2013-03-20
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
Fasting And Forgiving
Matthew 6:14-21
2013-03-17
- "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
2013-03-16
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.
- "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
2013-03-10
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"
- Misc (mp3 format)
Ordinary Is Made Extraordinary
2013-03-09
- "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
2013-03-03
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
The Elder Son
Luke 12-11-32
2013-03-02
- "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
2013-02-24
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***."
- "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
2013-02-23
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.
- "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
2013-02-16
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.
- What makes a martyr? It is always that they are being conformed to the image of the son of God! Romans 8:28-39 teaches us how to *be* martyrs DAILY. (mp3 format)
Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia
Romans 8:28-39
2013-02-10
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle reading for the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia, Romans 8:28-39, gives us the common thread that connects all martyrs. Millions in Russia were martyred, but many more millions gave up their faith with nary a struggle. The Martyrs suffered in countless ways, but were united in that that all were living in such a way to be "conformed to the image of the Son of God" Martyrdom is not a discrete event, it is a daily process, which ALL Christians must participate in gladly.
- "Blessed art Thou, O Lord, teach me Thy statutes" Learn the statutes by learning (living) the resurrection. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:12
2013-02-09
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.
- 28th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
2013-02-03
- "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
2013-02-02
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.
- "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
2013-01-27
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.
- "Every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." Do not be afraid to struggle for perfection! (mp3 format)
Sunday After Theophany
Ephesians 4-7-13
2013-01-20
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Sunday after Theophany, although it does not mention the word, is all about baptism. St Paul teaches us what our Lord's baptism did for us, and its end result - perfection. We look at this passage in detail, with its hopeful and intricate theology, which urges us to not be afraid to struggle for perfection!
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Regular Everyday Christianity And Knowing The Will Of God
Flight Into Egypt
Matthew 2-13-23
2013-01-13
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Go Out Into The Highways And Hedges And Compel Them To Come In That My House May Be Filled
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 14-16-24
2012-12-30
- "Wherewithal shall a young man correct his way? By keeping Thy words." (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:09
2012-12-29
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.
- "Thy faith hath made thee whole" understanding the faith of the leper who was healed. (mp3 format)
Luke 18:18-27
2012-12-23
SYNOPSIS:The response of gratitude of the one leper of the ten who were healed by Jesus prompted our Lord to say to him " thy faith hath made thee whole." This common expression of Jesus must be investigated closely, for in each instance, different aspects of faith are revealed. This Samaritan's faith was expressed in two ways, that he prayed for mercy and he gave thanks for his great gift. Regarding his prayer, we have a detailed interlude to talk about the Jesus prayer and how we should pray it, including praying it for others. Then we link the prayer to thanksgiving, for without the latter, the former withers. As we become aware of how much God's mercy surrounds us and helps us. we thank Him, and seek his mercy even more, for ourselves and others. Our heart becomes softer, and feels the needs of others - our heart becomes like that of Jesus. These two things, seeking God's mercy and thanking him for everything - are required for salvation.
- "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
2012-12-15
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.
- 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
2012-12-09
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.
- "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
2012-12-02
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.
- "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance." The Parable of the unjust steward explains how to fulfil this commandment. (mp3 format)
Holy Apostle And Evangelist Matthew
Parable Of The Unjust Steward
Matthew 9:9-13, Luke 16:1-9
2012-11-29
SYNOPSIS:The Gospels read today, for the Evangelist Matthew & the Parable of the unjust steward, are perfectly compatible, and the parable gives us some insight into how we must fulfill the solemn commandment of our Lord, given after the calling of the Evangelist. In the exegesis of these passages, several anecdotes from Archimandrite Demetrius Carellas' talks, which were included the night before, are mentioned, because we must be a zealous in taming our will as the unjust steward was in taking care of himself, in order to fulfill the commandment: "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance."
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
The Holy Orthodox Faith Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender
Part 03
2012-11-28
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
FILES: 138 HTML files, 142 HTML files, 6 Adobe PDF files, 19 RTF files, 152 Word DOC files, 611 mp3 files, 1 Русская версия PDF files, 1 Русская версия RTF files, 1 link files
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
Part 02
2012-11-27
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
Part 01
2012-11-26
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
- "Would that my ways were directed to keep Thy statutes." How to "wish" for something. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:05
2012-11-24
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?
- 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
2012-11-18
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.
- The Psalter (Word DOC format)
Thou Hast Enjoined Thy Commandments That We Should Keep Them Most Diligently
Psalm 118-04
2012-11-17
- 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
2012-11-11
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.
- "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
2012-11-03
Also in Format:
mp3 SYNOPSIS:Commentary on Psalm 118. Verse 2- "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
2012-10-28
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?
- "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
2012-10-27
Also in Format:
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? - "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
2012-10-25
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!
- Parable! of the Resurrection of the Son of the Widow of Nain. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16
2012-10-21
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!
- Why does a priest wear black. Joyful mourning, and the remembrance of death. (mp3 format)
2012-10-18
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"
- "Launch out into the deep" - the first great catch of fish teaches about the Jesus prayer! (mp3 format)
Luke 5:1-11
2012-10-07
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"?
- "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me" - the Cross and the REMEMBRANCE OF DEATH, which is the ONLY way of life. (mp3 format)
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2012-09-30
SYNOPSIS:We begin with an admonition from the Apostle Paul, in the selection read on the 17th Sunday after Pentecost: "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." This is the what, but most of a pastor's life is spent explaining the how, which the readings for the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Precious cross do very well. The Epistle ends with the stirring words " I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me...", and the Gospel tells us that "Whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it ". These describe an attitude, a way of living. Without this attitude, we will not be able to make our way and be "perfecting holiness". One way to explain this attitude is to elucidate the uniquely ascetic and Orthodox understanding of the "remembrance of death"; this is CRITICAL stuff! We must understand this way of life, the ONLY way of life, which starts with baptism and the cross, and must continue in the way of the cross.
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
For The Preaching Of The Cross Is To Them That Perish Foolishness But Unto Us Which Are Saved It Is The Power Of God
1 Corinthians 1-18-24
2012-09-27
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Talents
Bearing Fruit Is Required
Matthew 25:14-30
2012-09-23
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
God Forbid That I Should Glory Save In The Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Sunday Before Exaltation Of The Cross
Galations 6:11-18
2012-09-22
- 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
2012-09-16
- "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
2012-09-15
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.
- 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
2012-09-09
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.
- Great Martyr Phanurios of Rhodes. (mp3 format)
Great Martyr Phanurios Of Rhodes
2012-09-08
SYNOPSIS:Talk on Great Martyr Phanutios of Rhodes, including details about his icon, his known ability to help people find things, and his request that people pray for the soul of his sinful mother, and phanuropita. There is also a lesson to learn in how and when Holy Phanurios was revealled to the world - this has DIRECT application to our lives.
- Holy Prophet Samuel: Behold, here am I. Speak, for thy servant hears. (mp3 format)
Prophet Samuel
2012-09-01
SYNOPSIS:The Holy Prophet Samuel teaches us how to approach EVERYTHING in life. The manner of the birth and calling of Samuel is also mentioned.
- Dormition: Children's sermon (mp3 format)
2012-08-28
SYNOPSIS:A homily/talk with the children about Dormition.
- Transfiguration: Welcome to the future and examples of how to attain it in the present. (mp3 format)
2012-08-19
- Exegesis of Vespers readings on Transfiguration: typology and moral instruction. (mp3 format)
Exodus 24:12-18 : Exodus 33:11-23: 34:4-6,8 : 1 Kings 19:3-9,11-13,15-16
2012-08-18
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Vespers readings (parables, paremia) for the Feast of the Transfiguration, with emphasis on typology, especially comparing the Theophanies Moses and Elijah experienced to the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor, and the significant moral instruction these events give us, when viewed in a Christian light.
- "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
2012-08-16
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!
- "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
2012-08-12
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.
- 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
2012-08-11
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.
- Jesus walks on the water and the disciples are afraid. WHY? (mp3 format)
Matthew 14:22-34
2012-08-05
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.
- "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
2012-07-29
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.
- "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
2012-07-22
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.
- "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
2012-07-21
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.
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Let Love Be Without Dissimulation
A Reason For All The Rules
Romans 12:6-14
2012-07-14
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.".
- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Gergesenes Demoniac
What Have We To Do With Thee Jesus Thou Son Of God
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2012-07-08
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.
- Misc (mp3 format)
2012-07-07
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!
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Romans 6:18-23
2012-07-01
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?
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Matthew 6:22-33
2012-06-24
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".
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Follow Me And I Will Make You Fishers Of Men
Matthew 4-18-23-Matthew 4-25-5-12
2012-06-17
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday Of All Saints
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30 Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2012-06-10
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.
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
I Will Give You A New Heart And Put A New Spirit Within You
Learning To Discern Between The Old And New Ways
Acts 21-11, Ezekiel 36-24-28 (1)
2012-06-03
SYNOPSIS:The readings for Divine Liturgy on Pentecost give the story of Pentecost and our Lord '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.
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Fathers First Ecumenical Council
That They May Be One
John 17-1-13
2012-05-27
- "The sheep follow him for they know his voice." How? (mp3 format)
Fifth Thursday after Pascha
John 9:39-10:9
2012-05-17
- Comments on a billboard message: "Go to sleep giggling!" (mp3 format)
2012-05-16
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".
- She left her waterpot! The extreme humility and faith of the Samaritan Woman. (mp3 format)
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2012-05-13
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.
- Healing of the Paralytic by the Sheeps pool. The character of the paralytic and the fight for faith when despondency strikes. (Word DOC format)
I have no man!
John 5:1-15
2012-05-06
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mp3 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.- 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
2012-05-05
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.
- "Having become bold" - What made Joseph, Nicodemus and the Myrhhbearers bold? (HTML format)
Mark 15:43-16:8
2012-04-29
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mp3 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.- Matins Gospel 3 - No man witnessed the resurrection, and the chronology of the day of the resurrection. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 03
Mark 16:9-20
2012-04-28
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the 3rd Matins Gospel, Mark 16:9-20, and chronology of the day of the resurrection. The most important points are the spiritual ones - the resurrection was not witnessed by anyone. What does that mean? A lot!
- 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
2012-04-26
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!
- 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
2012-04-22
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.
- Introduction to the Sunday Matins Resurrectional Gospels. Believing in the Resurrection is hard. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 01
Matthew 28-16-20
2012-04-21
- Bright Week Do's and Dont's (mp3 format)
Agape Vespers
2012-04-15
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.
- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Lamentation Matins Holy Friday
Prophesy Of The Dry Bones
Ezekiel 37-1-14
2012-04-14
- 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
2012-04-10
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."
- 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
2012-04-08
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)
- Learning takes time & a lesson in humility, without which, no learning will occur. (mp3 format)
Mark 10:32-45
2012-04-01
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.
- 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
2012-03-31
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.
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Matthew 8:5-13
2012-03-30
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 of Great Lent (HTML format)
Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son
If Thou Canst Believe All Things Are Possible To Him That Believeth
Mark 9-17-31
2012-03-25
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mp3 - What is the way of the cross, and what does the Lord mean when He tells us to deny ourselves? What are the answers to the questions? (mp3 format)
Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Mark 8:34-9:1
2012-03-18
SYNOPSIS:The entire Gospel is important, but some passages are absolutely critical to understand and follow. This is one of them. It explains what the way of the cross is, and teaches a principle that we must use literally every moment of our lives - to learn to always make a good "exchange". We explain what the Lord means when He commands us to "deny" ourselves, and what the answers to His questions: "What shall it profit a man..." and "What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" must be. These are not rhetorical questions - you must answer them.
- "Seeing then that we have a great high priest..." The reason this epistle, which does not mention the cross is read on the Sunday of the Cross. (mp3 format)
Epistle for Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Hebrews 4:14-5:6
2012-03-17
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Exaltation of the Cross never mentions the cross. There are many epistles that mention the cross; why was this one chosen?
- The Healing of the Paralytic borne of four teaches us about sin, sickness, saving faith and that we must help our brother. (mp3 format)
Mark 2:1-12
2012-03-12
SYNOPSIS:Why do we speak of the Paralytic borne of four during Great Lent? It is because we must learn that we are paralytics because of sin, and the relationship of sin to sickeness, physical and mental. We must also learn what saving faith is and that we must help out our brother.
- Saint Gregory Palamas & the Gospel: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." teach that Christianity is to become perefect. Not many believe this. How are we to pursue perfection? (mp3 format)
John 10:9-16
2012-03-11
SYNOPSIS:This is an important discussion, too wonderful to believe for most Christians, but absolutely true, and the main teaching of St Gregory Palamas: To be Christian is to become perfect. The Gospel for St. Gregory teaches this in a hidden way, when it says: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture". Let us look in wonder at his teaching, the Gospel John 10:9-16, and the Matins Theotokion: "Adam&'s nature was made Godlike O Virgin, when without undergoing change, God took flesh within thy womb, and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming Gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation", and how we are to pursue perfection.
- The Triumph of Orthodoxy must occur in the heart, and will be because of doing simple things, as the Gospel teaches today. (mp3 format)
Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?
Come and see!
John 1:43-51
2012-03-05
SYNOPSIS:Orthodoxy and life is very deep and complex, but the essence of Christian life is simple. The Gospel today teaches us a simple way, and if we obey the simple apostolic command, we will not be confounded. If we think too much, we will always be confused. We look at the calling of Nathaniel and the simple way he was told to approach his doubts; this applies to EVERY doubt and difficulty in our life. "Come and see!" is the only door to the triumph of Orthodoxy, that is, the fullness of the indwelling of God, in our hearts.
- The Hymns of the Sunday of Orthodoxy proclaim the restoration of the ikons and their most important teaching - the Incarnation with all its implications, and the reason why we fast. (mp3 format)
Vespers And Matins Hymns For The Sunday Of Orthodoxy
2012-03-04
SYNOPSIS:The hymns for the Sunday of Orthodoxy, which proclaim the restoration of the icons, are a primer in Christology. Their most important teaching is explained, using examples from the services. Also the purpose of fasting, from a matins hymn, is clearly explained, and the importance of the hymnology of the church and how it teaches us true theology is discussed. Allthe following hymns are mentioned:Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Vespers, Lord I have cried)
We venerate Thy holy icon, loving Lord, / asking Thee to pardon our transgressions, Christ our God. / For Thou of Thine own will wast pleased in the flesh to ascend upon the Cross, / so to deliver from the bondage of the enemy those whom Thou hast fashioned. / Therefore in thanksgiving we cry aloud to Thee: // Thou hast filled all things with joy, our Savior, when Thou hast come to save the world. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Troparion, Tone II)
Depicting Thy divine form in ikons, O Christ, we openly proclaim Thy Nativity, Thine ineffable miracles and Thy voluntary Crucifixion. So the devils are driven out in fear and the heretics, their fellow workers, lament in shame and sorrow. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Sessional Hymn)
Moses, in the season of abstinence, received the law and proclaimed it to the people. Elijah by fasting closed the heavens; and the three children of Abraham through fasting overcame the lawless tyrant. Count us worthy, O Christ, through fasting to attain the Feast of the Resurrection, as we cry aloud: "Holy God, Holy and Strong, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us!" (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Praises)
- How to learn to forgive. (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
Matthew 6:14-21
2012-02-26
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".
- "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
2012-02-25
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Sunday of Forgiveness is a perfect introduction into the purpose and aim of Great Lent.
- 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
2012-02-23
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."
- 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
2012-02-19
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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".- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Zacchaeus Make Haste And Come Down For To Day I Must Abide At Thy House
2012-02-17
- "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
2012-02-16
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.
- The Parable of the Prodigal Son teaches us 2 very important things in the process of repentance. (mp3 format)
Luke 12:11-32
2012-02-12
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!
- 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
2012-02-09
SYNOPSIS:Exposition of 1 John 1:8-2:6.
- "Meat commendeth us not to God" exegesis of epistle reading for Meatfare Sunday. (mp3 format)
1 Corinthians 8:8-9:2
2012-02-08
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.
- The simple message of the parable of the Publican and Pharisee and the Jesus Prayer. (mp3 format)
Luke 18:10-14
2012-02-05
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.
- Sunday of Zacchaeus. The process of repentance. (mp3 format)
Luke 19:1-10
2012-01-29
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.
- 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. (mp3 format)
What does by "all acceptation" *really* mean?
1 Timothy 1:15-17
2012-01-28
- How to answer temptations and what happens after baptism. (mp3 format)
Saturday & Sunday after Theophany
Matthew 4:1-11, Matthew 4:12-17
2012-01-22
SYNOPSIS:The history of what Jesus did after His baptism is critical for us to understand. He set the example, both by accepting baptism and showing us what we MUST do after baptism. Let&' look in detail at how to encounter temptation, which will surely come to us. We must be ready.
- The purpose of the church, and of baptism. (mp3 format)
Ephesians 4:7-13
2012-01-21
SYNOPSIS:The selection read on the Sunday after Theophany (Ephesians 4:7-13) is critical to understand in detail. It contains the important dogmas abuot Christ&'s descent into Hell, and the rarely understood dogma whoch I will express as a question: "What is the purpose of the church?" It is critical to understand the purpose if our life, and of the church, and how baptism affects both. The exegesis of this Epistle explains this. This is a very important 9 minutes for a Christian to understand.
- What does baptism do for us and what MUST we do after baptism? The moral dogma of baptism. (mp3 format)
That He Might Redeem Us From All Iniquity And Purify Unto Himself A Peculiar People Zealous Of Good Works
Titus 2:11-14: 3:4-7
2012-01-19
SYNOPSIS:The epistle for Theophany, the Baptism of the Lord, describes for us the purpose of baptism, and especially its "moral dogma". What is this? Most people know that Christianity rests upon various dogmas about God, such as that God is a Trinity of persons, and that the Son of God, Jesus Christ is God and man, but many do not know as well our moral dogmas. The Epistle to Titus describes both the dogma what Christian baptism does. and also the moral dogma concerning it - what we must do. If we do not understnad and embrace this dogma we cannot be saved.
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
Synaxarion For Theophany
2012-01-18
- The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and baptism, and the end, where we will have fought the good fight and finished the course. Readings for the Sunday before Theophany explained. (mp3 format)
Mark 1:1-8 2Timothy 4:5-8
2012-01-15
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday before Theophany (the baptism of Jesus Christ), we read from Mark about the "beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ" and about the baptism of John, which is a vivid type of Christian Baptism. The entire selection, form Mark 1:1-8 us explained, and especially how John&'s baptism (of repentance) is different (and the same) as Christian baptism. It is also appropriate on this day to think about the eventual fruit of baptism, which is human perfection and union with God, and the passage of 2Timothy 4:5-8 presents us with a beautiful "after" picture. This is our destiny, if we accept baptism and work to attain it.
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Meaning Of Nativity
Abba Father They Departed Into Their Country Another Way
Galations 4-4-7-Matthew 2-1-12
2012-01-07
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
4 8
2012-01-06
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
1 4
2012-01-05
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
St Gregory The Theologian (nazianzen)
2011-the-wonder-of-the-incarnation
Also in Format:
Word DOC SYNOPSIS:Read this homily of St Gregory the Theologian (Nazianzen) carefully! It is a materpiece of Christological theology and rhetoric, and while accurately declaring important dogmas, it also captures the wonder of the incarnation. We MUST feel this wonder if we are true Christians. - The First Great Catch of Fish Compared with the Second - Luke 5:1-11 & John 21:1-14 (mp3 format)
Luke 5:1-11
2011-2011-10-09
SYNOPSIS:The first great catch of fish, in Luke 5:1-11, occurred at the very beginning of the ministry of Jesus with His apostles. It must be read in conjunction with the second great fish of 153 fishes, which occurred after the resurrection, and was His last earthly meal with His apostles (John 21:1-14). There are many beautiful morsels here! After sampling this beautiful smorgasbord, we must not miss the most important aspect of this story: 1. the command to "let down the nets" applies to everyone, and 2. after the disciples saw the power of the Lord, they left all and followed Him. If we do not learn these two things from these stories, we have learned nothing.
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper Compel Them To Come In
Luke 14-16-24
2011-12-25
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
Why Be Good
Colossians 3-4-11
2011-12-24
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Saint Nicholas The Wonderworker
Holy Art Thou O God And Thou Restest In The Saints
2011-12-19
- 11th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Jesus Prayer And Thanksgiving
Luke 17-12-19
2011-12-18
- 5th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 05, The road to Emmaus
Did Not Our Heart Burn Within Us
Luke 24:12-35
2011-12-17
- Healing of the Woman with an Infirmity of Eighteen Years. All of us have hidden motivations we MUST root out. (mp3 format)
Luke 13:10-17
2011-12-11
SYNOPSIS:All of scripture is about you and me. The reaction of the Ruler of the temple to the healing of the woman with the infirmity of eighteen years on the Sabbath day *exposes* us. The man was hateful and blind because of hidden motivations and passions. Let us look at ourselves and see if we have any of these hidden cockroaches that scurry away from the light so that we are not aware of them: anger, jealousy, ambition, pride, and a host of others. We must work intensely to have the light of Christ shine on our hidden motivations or else we will never be healed.
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
See Then That Ye Walk Circumspectly Not As Fools But As Wise Redeeming The Time
Ephesians-5-9-19
2011-12-10
Also in Format:
mp3 - Parable of the Harvest of the Rich Man. Two kinds of men, of ground, of rooms, of ways to talk to the soul, of goods, or treasure, of wealth. (mp3 format)
Luke 12:16-21
2011-12-04
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Harvest of the Rich man has many pairs of things which are contrasted: 2 kinds of men, of ground, of rooms, of ways to talk to the soul, of goods, or treasure, of wealth. We look at all of them.
- 7th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)
Woman With The Issue Of Blood
Having Spent All Her Living Who touched Me Be Of Good Comfort Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole
Luke 8-41-56
2011-11-20
SYNOPSIS:The healing of Jarius’daughter and the woman with the issue of blood shows two kinds of faith. Both will lead to salvation, because both are reactions to the Lord when He meets us at our level of faith. We should learn our personal lesson from these two items: The woman spent all her living on physicians before she encountered the Great Physician and was healed, and Jesus said "who touched me" Let us compare our faith to this woman, and also to Jairus who definitely had faith, of a weaker sort, but when the Lord responded to Him, he also responded (or else His daughter would not have been saved).
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Free Among The Dead
Octoechos-Tone-6-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-11-19
- 23rd Monday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
We Give Thanks To God Always For You All Making Mention Of You In Our Prayers
Pray For Others
1 Thessalonians 1-1-5
2011-11-16
- The Gadarene Demoniac. The various temptations of the demons. Without the help of God we would not survive them, and without this cardinal virtue we will never be victorious over them. (mp3 format)
Luke 8:26-39
2011-11-14
SYNOPSIS:The demons can tempt man in many ways, and the exorcism of the Gadarene demoniac shows three aspects of their warfare against man. We are shown that without God, we would be annihilated by the demons, and that their most deadly attacks are invisible to most people. If we want to be rid of the demons and their influence, there is one thing that we must do.
- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
God Forbid That I Should Glory Save In The Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ By Whom The World Is Crucified Unto Me And I Unto The World
Galatians 6-11-18
2011-11-13
- 22nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Continue In Prayer
Let Your Speech Be Alway With Grace Seasoned With Salt
Colossians 4-2-9
2011-11-10
- 22nd Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
And Whatsoever Ye Do Do It Heartily As To The Lord And Not Unto Men
Colossians 3-17-4-1
2011-11-09
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Direct Our Prayer As Incense Before Thee
Vespers-Prayer-Of-The-Entry
2011-11-06
- 21st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Mystery Which Hath Been Hid From Ages And From Generations But Now Is Made Manifest To His Saints
Perfection Happening In The Midst Of The Mundane
Colossians 1-24-29
2011-11-03
- 22nd Tuesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
If Any Man Will Come After Me Let Him Deny Himself And Take Up His Cross Daily And Follow Me
Luke-9-23-27
2011-11-01
- The longer explanation of the Parable of the Sower, the purpose of life and how to be good ground - Take heed therefore how ye hear! (mp3 format)
Luke 8:5-15
2011-10-30
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the sower is a rare parable, in that it is explained by the Lord Himself. This explanation is actually longer than most people think and we discuss what His other words, which are not part of the traditional reading, mean. These include "No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel" and "Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have." Together with the parable, the explanation teaches us the basic purpose of life and how to be "good ground".
- "And the Lord ... said unto her, Weep not. And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still." - The mystical and very practical meaning of these words. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16 Galatians 5:22-6:2
2011-10-23
SYNOPSIS:Only the Lord has the authority to tell us to "weep not". There is an epidemic of dysfunctional sadness in the world today; it is being treated by many partial solutions that often increase the despair and emptiness: medications, entertainments, passions. After His command to the Widow of Nain, the Lord mystically gives us the path we must travel in order to fulfill His command to "weep not" - "And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still." There is no other path that leads to true happiness. We explore the mystical meaning of these words, also incorporating an epistle read today: "And they that are Christ&'s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." and "Bear ye one another&'s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.", and offer many practical suggestions on what we must do to live according to these words. the only key to happiness is here. The World does not have it; only Christ does, and through the healing of the Widow of Nain and the exhortation of St Paul to the Galatians, the path to it is clearly explained.
- "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)
2011-10-19
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.
- The reason for the golden rule: "Ye shall be the children of the highest for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil" (mp3 format)
Luke 6:31-36
2011-10-16
SYNOPSIS:Everybody knows the Golden Rule, but few understand is essence. Many feel it is a command based upon common sense, and others even believe it is a way of changing the behavior of others. The reason for it is given plainly by the words of our Lord: "Your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil." We explore the great privilege we have as Christians to become Children of the Highest, and why the fulfillment if the Golden Rule is indispensable for this to happen
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Apostle John The Theologian Showed Perfect Love With A Robber
Exegesis Of Vespers Readings Especially The Heart And Love
2011-10-08
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Conception Of The Venerable Prophet Forerunner And Baptist John
Childrens Sermon
2011-10-06
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Christ Liveth In Me
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:4-9:1
2011-10-02
- 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
2011-09-29
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!
- The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (mp3 format)
The Preaching Of The Cross Is To Them That Perish Foolishness; But Unto Us Which Are Saved It Is The Power Of God
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2011-09-27
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
The Length And Height Of The Cross Is Equal To Heaven
Praises-Matins
2011-09-26
- What does this mean - God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we have this treasure in earthen vessels? (mp3 format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
2 Corinthians 4:6-15, Galatians 6:11-18
2011-09-25
SYNOPSIS:On this Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, two of the epistle readings (2 Corinthians 4:6-15 and Galatians 6:11-18) relate directly to the cross. St Paul states emphatically: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." What does it mean to "glory" in the cross? People glory in many things - wealth, attractiveness, popularity, political correctness, having a good marriage, job, etc. None of these things is glorying in the cross. We answer this important question, and also why we who are "new creatures" because of the cross "have this treasure in earthen vessels".
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
Two Hymns Explaining What Happened On The Cross
2011-09-24
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
The Wedding Garment Is Christ
Matthew 22:1-14
2011-09-18
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Harrowing Of Hell
Delivered From Deception By His Compassions
Octoechos-Tone-5-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-09-17
- 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
2011-09-14
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Beheading Of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner And Baptist John
Hidden Addictions And Passions Kill.
Mark 6:14-30
2011-09-11
SYNOPSIS:The story of the beheading of John the Baptist shows us how an ordinary life ends in death. Herod was an ordinary man, since he was ruled by his passions and sins (lust,adultery,ambition,drunkeness) and because of his indulgence in his passions, most if which he was not aware of, he was also a coward, and when he made an unwise oath, he was unwilling to renege on it to save face. Therefore, he had Saint john beheaded, who then passed into eternal life, and Herod continued his descent into eternal death. We explore especially how hidden passions (present in all of us!) can kill the soul.
- 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
2011-09-04
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Godly Sorrow
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Hymns-After-The-Gospel
2011-09-03
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Gospel For The Theotokos
Small-Paraklesis-Gospel-Reading-Luke 1-39-49
2011-08-29
- Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos
"Mary hath chosen that good part" and "blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it."
Luke 10:38-42,11:27-28
2011-08-28
SYNOPSIS:The usual reading for feasts of the Mother of God is actually a composite reading in which she does not appear at all, but another "Mary" (the sister of Lazarus) is mentioned, who shares her name. The reason why is because this selection, coupled with a later part of the same Gospel succinctly sums up the virtues of the Theotokos: "Mary hath chosen that good part" and "blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it." On this great day, let us examine ourselves, as to whether we have also chosen that good part, and kept the word of God. This is why we venerate the Most Holy Theotokos with such love; our veneration is in vain if we do not also emulate! Let us examine how we can accomplish this.
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
I Shall Commemorate Thy Name In Every Generation And Generation
The True Church Remembers The Theotokos
Prokeimenon
2011-08-27
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
From My Youth Do Many Passions War Against Me
Hymns-Of-Ascent-Tone-4
2011-08-25
- 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
2011-08-24
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)
The Law of God understood in the Orthodox way
Small Paraklesis Canon Ode 5
2011-08-23
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."
- 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
2011-08-21
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.
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
Revealing The Human Form I Emit Unapproachable Light Having Put On All Of Adam And Transformed Human Nature
Transfiguration Matins Teaches Us The Meaning Of The Feast
2011-08-20
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)
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
2011-08-19
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
Old Testament Appearances Of Jesus Christ
Exegesis of the Parables For Transfiguration Vespers
Exodus 24:12-18 : Exodus 33:11-23: 34:4-6, 8 : 1 Kings 19:3-9, 11-13, 15-16
2011-08-18
SYNOPSIS:Similar events to the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ occured in the Old Testament. Three selections from the Old Testament are read during the Vespers, involving Moses twice and also the Prophet Elijah. These parables are briefly explained.
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
Illumined With Effulgence Of The Virtues
To Be In The Presence Of God
Vespers Aposticha For The Prefestival Of The Transfiguration
2011-08-17
SYNOPSIS:The most important aspect of the Transfiguration of our Lord on Mount Tabor is that it is a harbinger of things to come. The apostles were not ready to be in the presence of the divine uncreated light of God, and yet in the end we all will be in His presence. What must we do to become ready? The aposticha for the forefeast teaches us: "Illumined with the effulgence of the virtues, let us proceed to the holy mountain, that we may behold the divine Transfiguration of the Lord." (Vespers Aposticha, August 5, Forefeast of the Transfiguration). Let us look at what happened to the apostles and why and what we must do as the aposticha teaches.
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
I came to knowledge of thy works
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-4-Irmos
2011-08-14
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.
- 9th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Whosoever Will Be Great Among You Let Him Be Your Minister And Whosoever Will Be Chief Among You Let Him Be Your Servant
Matthew 20-17-28
2011-08-11
- 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
2011-08-07
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.
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Remission Of Sins Of The Paralytic And Woman Who Was A Sinner
Matthew 9-1-8,Luke 7-36-50
2011-07-24
- "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
2011-07-17
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.
- 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
2011-07-12
Also in Format:
Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:A short exegesis of the 3 selections from the Epistles of the Apostle Peter, read at the Vespers for the feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul. The difference between their writings is explored. The Apostle Peter writes with simplicity and the conviction and wisdom that can only be gained by a life lived well, with many moral admonitions, based upon a deep understanding of what the God-man has done for us. It is like listening to your wise grandfather imparting his wisdom at the end of his life. He does not feel compelled to give detailed proofs, but he merely speaks with overpowering conviction because of experience. A few of verses from the selections are explored to illustrate this kind of "fireside chat" character of his writings. Those who are temped to call themselves Christians and still not heed the words of the Apostle " abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" should read the Apostle with greater care and humility. We are in an age that very much needs to heed the words of the Apostle Peter. There is also a short excursus into Peter's restoration and how he was able eventually to say to His Lord, not only did he have affection for Him, but that He loved him with an all consuming, perfect love. This love is only possible if the admonitions of Peter are heeded.
- 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
2011-07-10
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.
- Nativity of John the Baptist. The Teaching of John the Baptist Explained by St Paul (mp3 format)
Romans 13:11-14:4
2011-07-07
SYNOPSIS:The selection from Romans read for the Nativity of the Forerunner is a remarkable summary of the core teaching of St John the Baptist. Note that "teaching" is not plural, because, primarily, the Holy Forerunner was concerned with only one thing - preparing the way for the immanent appearance in the world of Jesus Christ, and he could only see one way to do this: "make his paths straight" We discuss how St Paul summarizes this teaching and also the wonderful assertion that " now is our salvation nearer than when we believed", which also applies very much to the ministry of St John, and should be realized by us each succeeding day of our life.
- 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
2011-07-06
SYNOPSIS:The Vespers parables for the Nativity of St John are what we might expect: the stories of barren women who bare children (notable Sarah, who bore Isaac, and the unnamed mother of Sampson, wife of Manoah) and the seminal passage from Isaiah which prophesies the coming of the Forerunner, with the memorable line "The voice of one crying in the desert: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the wilderness the paths of our God"). What is important about these readings? Since the whole of the teaching of the Baptist was preparation via morality, we can expect there to be a heavy emphasis on how we should live. By the way, astute listeners will recognize that the second reading was incorrectly identified as referring to Hanna, the mother of Samuel, when actually the reading is about Sampson. Of course, Hannah was another barren woman who bore a child. Ooops.
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
How To Discern Light And Darkness In The Eye Of The Soul
Matthew 6:22-33
2011-07-03
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 Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Groaning Hope And Prayer
The Spirit Itself Maketh Intercession For Us
Romans 8:22-27
2011-06-30
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.
- 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
2011-06-26
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 Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Romans 5:10-16
2011-06-23
- 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
2011-06-22
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?
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)
Exegesis Of Sunday Of All Saints Vespers Parables
Isaiah 43:9-14 Wisdom 3:1-9 Wisdom 5:15-6:3
2011-06-19
Also in Format:
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 Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Jesus Teaches A New Way Of Understanding Sin
All Life Is Lived From The Heart
Matthew 5:27-32, Romans 1:28-2-9
2011-06-16
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.
- 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
2011-06-15
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.
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Ministry of the Holy Spirit
O Heavenly King
2011-06-12
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!- 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
2011-06-11
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.
- 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
2011-06-09
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.
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers Of The First Ecumenical Council
The High Priestly Prayer Of Jesus Christ
John 17:1-13
2011-06-05
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.
- 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Human Nature Deified Holy Spirit Sent Judgment To Come
2011-06-02
- 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Exegesis Of Old Testament Parables Read During Ascension Vespers
2011-06-01
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
The Sunday of the Blind Man
What must I do to be saved?
John 9:1-38
2011-05-29
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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.- 5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The Samaritan Woman
A textbook example of how to listen to God.
John 4:5-42
2011-05-22
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
John 9:1-38
2011-05-20
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.
- 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
2011-05-15
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.
- 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
2011-05-14
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)
- 3rd Thursday of pascha (mp3 format)
Acts 8-26-39-John 6-40-44
2011-05-12
- 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
2011-05-08
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.
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing Women
2011-05-07
- 2nd Wednesday of pascha (mp3 format)
2011-05-04
- 2nd Thursday of pascha (mp3 format)
John 5-24-30
2011-05-02
- Thomas Sunday. "Believing disbelief" is the most important part of the story. (HTML format)
John 20:19-31
2011-05-01
Also in Format:
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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. - Why are the altar doors open on pascha? When are they closed and what does it mean? (HTML format)
2011-04-30
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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.- 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
2011-04-23
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.
- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Homily Before The Shroud
3 Reactions To Christ Hate Love Indifference
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2011-04-22
- Holy Thursday (mp3 format)
He reckoned up the value of the oil of myrrh, and yet was not afraid to sell Thee who art above all price.
Holy Thursday Liturgy
2011-04-21
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 Wednesday (mp3 format)
I have transgressed more than the harlot, O loving Lord...
Cultivating the proper attitude to have regarding our sins and weak repentance.
Holy Wednesday Matins
2011-04-20
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 Wednesday (mp3 format)
While the sinful woman brought oil of myrrh, the disciple came to an agreement with the transgressors...
Comparing and personalizing Judas and the woman of bethany.
Holy Wednesday Matins
2011-04-19
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 Tuesday (HTML format)
Judas with avaricious thoughts, ponders, plots, and accepts the darkness.
The progression of sin into self imposed slavery.
2011-04-18
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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)- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
Rejoice In The Lord Alway And Again I Say Rejoice
Philippians 4:4-9
2011-04-17
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.
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
Exegesis of the rasising of Lazarus story
John 11:1-45
2011-04-16
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
"in confirming the common resurrection" and other reasons why Lazarus was raised.
John 11:1-45
2011-04-15
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
I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.
John 11-1-45
2011-04-13
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"
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little.
Luke 7:36-50 Mark 10:32-45
2011-04-10
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.
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Mary Of Egypt Shows Us How To Repent
How To Cultivate A Repentant Spirit
2011-04-09
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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)- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
Palm Sunday
Philippians 4-4-9-John 12-1-18
2011-04-08
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read this epistle on Palm Sunday, since it is not about suffering, or the cross or the resurrection? There are many other epistles about these things, but this epistle contains instructions that must be applied during Holy Week in order to truly benefit from Pascha. We can understand how to apply the Apostle Paul's instructions by looking at the good and bad examples in today's Gospel, such as Mary, who annointed the Lord, Judas, the people, and the high priests. There are many lessons here, and all of Holy Week will contain many more. The Lord is at hand!
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
What does fasting do
Mark 9:17-31
2011-04-03
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)
Scourged By The Whips Of Sin
Understanding Sin And Repentance
2011-04-02
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)
The dark sorrow of material things.
The sweetness of abstinence.
2011-03-30
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)
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Holy Cross
What Shall A Man Give In Exchange For His Soul
Mark 8:34-9:1
2011-03-27
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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.- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
Before Thy Cross We Bow Down And Worship
2011-03-26
SYNOPSIS:Why do we prostrate before the Cross, even on Sunday? An explanation of the hymn before the cross: "Before Thy cross, we bow down in worship, O Master, and Thy holy resurrection, we glorify"
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Salvation defined: "If any man enter in he shall be saved and shall go in and out and find pasture"
Saint Gregory Palamas and the healing of the paralytic borne of four
John 10:9-16, Mark 2:1-12
2011-03-20
SYNOPSIS:The reading for St Gregory Palamas today contains a beautiful "definition" of salvation:"If any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture" This is true freedom, where the will is able to always choose the right way. We explore how we can obtain this kind of freedom, which the world does not understand, using examples from both Gospels read today.
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Paralytic Borne Of Four
Sin Sickness Faith Prayer
Mark 2-1-12
2011-03-13
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Uncircumscribed Word Of The Father Became Circumscribed
The Meaning Of Icons
2011-03-12
SYNOPSIS:The true meaning of icons is proclaimed in the Sunday of Orthodoxy Services. The "surface meaning" of an icon is that we can depict Jesus Christ as a man precisely because He became a man. We are not satisfied with such a shallow explanation, and the services delve much deeper into the meaning of the incarnation. Two examples, one from Vespers, and the other from matins, describe the wonder of the incarnation. Every time we gaze upon an icon, we must remember that we, who have nothing in common with God, can know God because He chose to have everything in common (one hymn, below, describes this as the God-man taking on all the "distinctive properties" of our flesh), with us, save sin.
Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, "Lord I have cried", Tone VI, spec. mel.: 'Having set all your hope')
The uncircumscribed Word of the Father became circumscribed, taking flesh from thee, O Theotokos, and He restored the sullied image to its ancient glory, filling it with the divine beauty. This our salvation we confess in deed and word, and we depict it in the holy icons. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Kontakion, Tone 8)
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Gregory Palamas I Am The Door By Me If Any Man Enter In He Shall Be Saved And Shall Go In And Out And Find Pasture
John 10-9-16
2011-03-11
SYNOPSIS:This is an important discussion, too wonderful to believe for most Christians, but absolutely true, and the main teaching of St Gregory Palamas: To be Christian is to become perfect. The Gospel for St. Gregory teaches this in a hidden way, when it says: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture". Let us look in wonder at his teaching, the Gospel John 10:9-16, and the Matins Theotokion: "Adam&'s nature was made Godlike O Virgin, when without undergoing change, God took flesh within thy womb, and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming Gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation", and how we are to pursue perfection.
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
Instructions For Great Lent
Romans 13:11-14 Matthew 6:14-21
2011-03-06
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.
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
The Triodion teaches us how to think
2011-03-05
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."
- Bright Thursday (mp3 format)
That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
The encounter with Nicodemus.
John 3:1-15
2011-02-28
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the encounter of Nicodemus with Christ.
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Things That Are Repeated Are Important
Matthew 25:31-46
2011-02-27
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.
- Week of the Prodigal Son;Saturday (mp3 format)
Saturday Of The Dead
1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 John 5:24-30
2011-02-26
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?
- 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
2011-02-25
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."
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
He Came To Himself
Luke 15:11-32
2011-02-20
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Do not judge.
Luke 18:10-14
2011-02-13
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?
- 36th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
This Is A Faithful Saying And Worthy Of All Acceptation That Christ Jesus Came Into The World To Save Sinners Of Whom I Am Chief
1 Timothy:15-17
2011-01-30
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.
- 36th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Pure Religion And Undefiled Before God And The Father Is This
James 1-19-27
2011-01-27
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
The Measure Of The Gift Of Christ
Ephesians 4:7-13
2011-01-23
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the epistle read for the Sunday after Theophany, Ephesians 4:7-13. Why is this epistle read? What is "the measure of the gift of Christ." "He led captivity captive" describes what Christ's death and resurrection did for us, and is a way of understanding the effects of sin.
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
The Grace Of God That Bringeth Salvation Hath Appeared To All Men
2011-01-19
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of the reason for the Lord's baptism, including the prophesies about the visible changes in the Jordan when the Lord was baptised.
- Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)
Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord Make His Paths Straight
Mark 1:1-8
2011-01-10
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Theophany we read from the beginning of the Gospel of Mark 2 important prophesies regarding the ministry of Jesus Christ, and regarding the ministry of John the Baptist. The "baptism of John", and of Christ, and our own is explained, and the admonition of St John: "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight", which applies to each one of us, all the time, is explained. There is a very important nuance of meaning that is missed by too many Christians. Our life must be a continual attempt to obey this admonition, and without our effort to do so, we cannot be saved, while, on the other hand, our success in fulfilling this command does not determine if we are saved either. This is the old faith vs. works argument, which, for those who were not raised in the church, can be very confusing. It is actually quite easy to understand (after you have understood it!). Our baptism, and all that God does to give us His grace, enables us to become perfected and to know Him. We are responsible for trying, and only because of His help, we will succeed. Overall, if our life is an effort to fulfill this commandment, we will be saved.
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Sunday After Nativity
Joseph The Betrothed
2011-01-09
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Word DOC - 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
2011-01-07
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)
Eve of Nativity
We worship Thy Nativity O Christ, show us also Thy divine Theophany
2011-01-06
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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. "- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
He Sought To See Jesus Who He Was
Luke 19:1-10
2011--02-06
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?
- 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!- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2010-12-27
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great Supper is explained, and compared with the Parable of the Wedding Feast, and selection from Colossions is related to the inner meaning of the parable.
- 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Jesus Christ Came Into The World To Save Sinners
What Is Sin
1 Timothy 1:15-17 Luke 13:10-17
2010-12-12
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.
- 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
2010-12-06
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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 . - 28th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Partakers of the inheritance of the saints
Read the scriptures!
Colossians 1:12-18
2010-12-04
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:In this on a Sunday (a short talk after liturgy), the important selection from the first chapter of Colossions is discussed, with an emphasis on the context of the selection and the important Christological dogma expressed, which was later faithfully reproduced in the Symbol of Faith. It is important to read this passage correctly, as some heretics, such as the Arians (Jehovah Witnesses) do not understand the phrase . Also, the importance of reading the scriptures is mentioned. - 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
2010-11-28
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.
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
One Body, One Spirit, One Hope, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism
Descending,then Ascending Fulfills The Gospel
Ephesians 4-1-6
2010-11-14
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.
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
He Is Our Peace
Ephesians 2:14-22
2010-11-07
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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? - 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable Of The Sower
Grace,faith,works
Ephesians 2:4-10,Luke 8:5-15
2010-10-31
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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".- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Widow Of Nain
Oil And Wine
Galatians 6:11-18 Luke 7:11-16
2010-10-24
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Christian Justification
Galatians 2:16-20
2010-10-18
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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. - 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
2010-10-10
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.
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Two Identical Definitions of Christianity. What is the way of the Cross? Important questions we must answer.
Galatians 2:16-20, Mark 8:34-9:1
2010-10-03
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle and Gospel for the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross both contain identical 'definitions' of Christianity. They both involve the cross, which is an instrument of death and of life. All Christians must voluntarily be crucified with Christ, and take up their cross. This is explained by our Lord's instruction that we must 'lose' our life to save it, and His questions: For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? We must understand this if we are to truly live the Christian life and know Christ.
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2010-10
- 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
2010-09-26
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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. ...- The Canaanite woman - Exactly how to pray. (HTML format)
Matthew 15:21-28
2010-09-19
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Caananite woman teaches us *exactly* how we should pray: with knowledge, simplicity, persistence and humility. A close examination of her encounter with Christ shows these virtues plainly, and should also show us which ones we are lacking in (definitely at least 3 of the 4!).
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable Of The Talents
Receive Not The Grace Of God In Vain
2 Corinthians 6:1-10,Matthew 25-14-30
2010-09-12
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mp3 You can watch this sermon in two parts:
Part 1 Part 2SYNOPSIS:Both the epistle and the Gospel story of the parable of the talents express the same basic idea: we must, as the Epistle puts it "receive not the grace of God in vain." The epistle discusses in great detail how we can "trade" with this grace (called talents in the parable).- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22-35-46
2010-09-05
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
It Is Always About Morality
Matthew 22:1-14
2010-08-29
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.
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable of the Vineyard
We must bear fruit
Matthew 21:33-42
2010-08-23
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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. - Transfiguration (mp3 format)
A Prophesy Of Things To Come
Partakers Of Divine Nature
2010-08-19
- 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
2010-08-15
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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. ...- 11th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
Gratitude and Self Knowledge lead to forgiving others.
Matthew 18:23-35
2010-08-08
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mp3 - 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
2010-08-01
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mp3 - 9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
We are labourers together with God
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2010-07-25
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?
- 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
2010-07-18
- 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
2010-07-11
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Paralytic
A Promise And Rebuke Regarding Faith
Matthew 9:1-8
2010-07-04
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?
- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Gergesenes Demoniacs
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2010-06-27
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.
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
"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.
2010-06-20
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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.- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Answer All The Questions
Matthew 6:22-33
2010-06-13
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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? ... - 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
2010-06-06
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.
- 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
2010-05-30
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The ministry of the Holy Spirit and the most important word.
John 20:19-23 Acts 2:1-11
2010-05-23
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
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
2010-05-16
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mp3 - 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
2010-05-09
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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? ...- 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2010-05-02
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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. - 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
2010-04-25
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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.- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrhhbearing Women
Mark 15:43-16:8
2010-04-18
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.
- Saint Thomas Sunday - Realism about the resurrection! (HTML format)
John 20:19-31
2010-04-11
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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. - Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Agape Vespers
Paschal Instructions
2010-04-04
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mp3 - Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Before the tomb and epitaphios.
Behold the man!
Holy Friday Vespers
2010-04-02
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.
- Palm Sunday (HTML format)
Palm Sunday
Why did we read this Epistle? Principles of scriptural exegesis.
Philippians 4:4-9
2010-03-28
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mp3 - 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
2010-03-21
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Demoniac Boy
Mark 9:17-31
2010-03-14
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Veneration Of The Holy Cross
We cannot see the Kingdom of God come with power unless we follow the way of the cross.
Mark 8:34-9:1
2010-03-07
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Triumph Of Orthodocxy
Pleasures Of Sin For A Season
Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-12:2, John 1:43-51
2010-02-21
SYNOPSIS:What is the triumph of Orthodoxy? A short synopsis of the historical background, then discussion of what this triumph is for the individual. It involves "faith", understanding that the pleasures of sin are for a season, and believing that a good thing CAN come out of Nazareth.
- 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
2010-02-14
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Matthew 25:31-46
2010-02-07
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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?- 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
2010-01-31
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
The theme of Great Lent
Luke 18:10-14
2010-01-24
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mp3 - 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Find a way!
Luke 19:1-10
2010-01-17
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
Matthew 2:13-23
2010-01-10
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
2010-01-07
- Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
A Life Parable In The Kindness Of Joseph
Matthew 1-1-25
2010-01-03
- Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Saint John Of Kronstadt, and The Purpose Of The Incarnation, "Ye shall be children of the Highest"
Luke 6:31-36
2010-01-02
SYNOPSIS:On this Sunday before Nativity, St John of Kronstadt is also commemorated, and the Gospel for him and his life perfectly describes the purpose of the Incarnation. This Gospel contains our Lord's admonishments to love, using concrete examples, and concludes with the promise "And ye shall be children of the highest". This is the purpose of the incarnation, and examining this Gospel along with St John's life, which struggled to fulfill it illuminates this purpose for us, therefore, on this Sunday when we read the "Begats", it is appropriate to delve into what is means to be children of the highest, and how and why we can attain this high calling. We also suggest another way to describe the "Golden Rule" and what should be our inner motivation for loving our fellow man, and doing anything that is good in this life.
- 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.
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2009-12-27
- 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
2009-12-20
- 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
2009-12-13
- 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,
2009-12-06
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Greatest Commandment and Parable of the Good Samaritan
Two answers to the question who is my neighbor
Luke 10:25-37
2009-11-29
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.
- 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
2009-11-22
An exposition of Ephesians 2:14-22, and the healing of the woman with an issue of blood, which make the same important point.
- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
A Important Principle Is Taught
Luke 16:19-31
2009-11-08
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Sower
Having Ears To Hear Is Only Possible If There Is Good Ground
Luke 8:5-15
2009-11-01
- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Widow of Nain.
This is our life in microcosm.
Luke 7:11-16
2009-10-25
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mp3 - 19th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Golden Rule
Ye Shall Be The Children Of The Highest
Luke 6:31-36
2009-10-18
SYNOPSIS:The "Golden Rule" is explained, including a mention of how the world twists this rule into a sort of magical "law of attraction". The REASON for the golden rule and everything we do is because we are "children of the highest".
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Great Catch Of Fish
The Greatest Miracle Was Not The Fish
Luke 5:1-11
2009-10-11
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2009-10-04
- Exaltation of the Cross (HTML format)
We Preach Christ Crucified
What is the way of the cross?
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2009-09-27
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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. - Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
A promise that only one man can deliver, after the cross.
John 3:13-17
2009-09-20
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
Matthew 22:1-14
2009-09-18
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Vineyard
Anything about the Jews is about us too.
Matthew 21:33-42
2009-09-06
- 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
2009-08-30
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Veoh- Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)
Dormition
Explanation Of The Dormition Troparion
2009-08-28
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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- 11th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
It is all about imitation.
Matthew 18:23-35
2009-08-23
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mp3 - 10th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Walking On The Water
A parable of our own lives.
Matthew 14:22-34
2009-08-09
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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. - 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
2009-08-01
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'.
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Likeminded with unbelievers?
Romans 15:1-7 Matthew 9:27-35
2009-07-26
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing of the paralytic.
The inner life.
Matthew 9:1-8
2009-07-19
- 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
2009-07-12
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mp3 - 4th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- Saint John Maximovich (mp3 format)
2009-07-04
- 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
2009-06-28
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mp3 - 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
- 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
2009-05-31
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Ascension
The whole of our faith is Jesus Christ. Two prophesies, one fulfilled, one being fulfilled.
2009-05-28
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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. - 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Another important question.
John 5:1-15
2009-05-10
- 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
2009-05-03
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)
Two parts to our story.
John 20:19-31
2009-04-26
- Bright Thursday (HTML format)
Nicodemus meets Jesus.
Illumination by degrees, but only if we stay in the kitchen!
John 3:1-15
2009-04-23
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Let us forgive all things on the resurrection.
2009-04-19
- Holy Friday (HTML format)
At The Tomb
2009-04-17
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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. ...- Palm Sunday (Word DOC format)
The inner meaning of Palm Sunday.
Philippians 4:4-9 John 12:1-18
2009-04-12
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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.- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
St Mary of Egypt.
A perfect decription of any true Christian.
Luke 7:36-50
2009-04-05
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Mark 9:17-31
2009-03-29
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Adoration of the Precious Cross
Whosover will...
2009-03-22
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Paralytic
We must labor to be healed of our spiritual paralysis.
Hebrews 1:10-2:3 Mark 2:1-12
2009-03-15
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Veoh- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Triumph Of Orthodoxy
How do *we* partake in the triumph of Orthodoxy?
Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-12:2 John 1:43-51
2009-03-08
- 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
2009-03-01
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Saint Gregory Palamas and the Healing of the paralytic borne of four.
The answer to the question: "Can anything good come out of Nazareth
Mark 2:1-12, John 1:43-51
2009-02-28
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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. - 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Matthew 25:31-46
2009-02-22
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
The most important part of the parable.
Luke 15:11-32
2009-02-16
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
A "before" and "beginning" story, to be continued...
Luke 19:1-10
2009-02-01
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mp3 - Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 4:12-17
2009-01-25
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
Baptism allows us to fulfil all righteousness.
Matthew 3:13-17
2009-01-19
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
Things are not as they seem!
2009-01-11
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
The whole meaning of Christmas is in today's epistle
Galatians 4:4-7
2009-01-07
- Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2009-01-04
- Lazarus Saturday (HTML format)
Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Applies To Us Now
John 11-1-45
2009
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Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Luke 14:16-24
2008-12-28
- 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
2008-12-21
- 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
2008-12-14
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Do not miss any opportunity!
Ephesians 2:4-10, Luke 8:26-39
2008-11-23
- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Rich Man and Lazarus
Be a good steward.
Luke 16:19-31
2008-11-16
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 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
2008-11-02
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"As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise."
Luke 6:31-36
2008-10-26
- 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
2008-10-19
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Veoh- 17th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Canaanite Woman
Lessons in how to pray.
Matthew 15:21-28
2008-10-12
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
In summary, "Receive not the grace of God in vain"
Matthew 25:14-30, 2 Corinthians 6:1-10
2008-10-05
- 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
2008-09-28
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
John 12:28-36, 1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2008-09-27
- Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)
Nativity of the Theotokos, Sep 8/21
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus"
Philippians 2:5-11
2008-09-21
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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. - 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- Beheading of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Possibilities and clarity, and the Kontakion of the feast. (HTML format)
2008-09-11
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Thoughts concering the Kontakion of the feast of the beheading of the Forerunner, and the precious gift of clarity of thought sometimes given especially during the early morning liturgy.
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 11th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 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
2008-08-24
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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).- Transfiguration (HTML format)
Human nature in the midst of the Divine.
Luke 9:28-36 (The Gospel For Matins)
2008-08-19
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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. - 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
2008-08-17
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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"?- 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
2008-08-10
Video of this homily- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
"According to your faith, be it unto you"
Matthew 9:27-35, Romans 15:1-7
2008-08-03
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."
- Holy Fathers of The First Six Ecumenical Councils. The High Priestly Prayer of Jesus Christ. (mp3 format)
John 17:1-13
2008-07-27
The Holy Fathers of the First Six Ecumenical Councils is celebrated on the Sunday on or after July 13SYNOPSIS:The High priestly prayer of Jesus Christ contains not only sublime dogmas about Jesus Christ, but also a two-fold definition of salvation, and an example of how to attain it: we must care for others as Jesus Christ did.
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The light of the body is the eye.
Matthew 6:22-33
2008-07-06
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
All Saints of Russia
You are not alone!
Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2008-06-29
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday of All Saints
The answer to every question.
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30
2008-06-22
- Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
If any man thirst...
Three important things.
John 7:37-52: 8:12
2008-06-16
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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...- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
What is Heaven?
John 17:1-13
2008-06-08
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Blind Man
It really is about character too.
John 9:1-38
2008-06-01
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Part 1 Part 2- 5th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
The Samaritan Woman
She left her waterpot.
John 4:5-42
2008-05-25
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The Paralytic
Baptism explained
John 5:1-15
2008-05-21
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing women
Mark 15:43-47
2008-05-11
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)
Two ways to be at peace
John 20:19-31
2008-05-04
- Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Agape Vespers
2008-04-27
- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
These Things They Did Not Understand At First
John 12:1-18
2008-04-21
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Mary Of Egypt
Who Loves The Most
Luke 7:36-50
2008-04-14
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Realistic Hope
Mark 9:17-31
2008-04-06
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
Two Ways
Mark 8:34-91
2008-03-30
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Paralytic
When Jesus Saw Their Faith
Mark 2:1-12
2008-03-23
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment
The Judgment Is All About Love
Matthew 25:31-46
2008-03-02
- 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
2008-02-18
- 38th Monday after Pentecost (HTML format)
What Did Christ Do On The Cross
1 Peter 2:21-3:9
2008-02-11
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Sunday Of Zaccheaus
Encouragement
2008-02-10
- 36th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Canaanite Woman
A Perfect Example Of How To Pray
Matthew 15:21-28
2008-02-03
- 17th Saturday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Ten Virgins
Aquiring The Holy Spirit
Matthew 25:1-13
2008-01-27
- 35th Friday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Which Country Are We Mindful Of
Hebrews 11:8,11-16
2008-01-25
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For Ye Have Need Of Patience
Hebrews 10:35-11:7
2008-01-24
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
Sunday After Theophany
The Meaning Of The Winter Pascha; Our Nature Is Changed, We Are No Longer Captives
Ephesians 4:7-13, Matthew 4:12-17
2008-01-20
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Is Now
John 11:1-45
2008-01-19
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
How Can We Make Sense Out Of The Senseless
Galatians 1:11-19, Matthew 2:13-2
2008-01-13
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2008-01-11
- 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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Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper An Invitation To Become Not To Eat
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2007-12-30
- 31st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Question Of The Ruler
The Hard Sayings Of Jesus; It Is Not Really About The Money
Luke 18:18-27
2007-12-23
- 28th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Blind Man Who Cried Jesus Son Of David Have Mercy On Me
The True Meaning Of Lord Have Mercy
Col 1:12-18, Luke 18:35-43
2007-12-09
- 29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Healing Of The 10 Lepers
10 Are Cleansed But Only The One With Graditude Is Made Whole
1 Timothy 1:15-17, Luke 17:12-19
2007-12-03
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Parable Of The Rich Man Whose Ground Brought Forth Plentifully
An Urgent Question We Must Answer; What Shall I Do
Ephesians 5:9-19, Luke 12:16-21
2007-11-25
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
My Yoke Is Easy And My Burden Is Light
2007-11-11
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Ephesians 2:4-10, Luke 8:26-39
2007-11-04
- 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
2007-09-30
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2corinthians6;1 10
Matthew25;14 30
2007-09-16
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Mary Of Egypt
2007-03-25
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Saint John Climacus
2007-03-18
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mp3 - 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Veneration Of The Holy Cross
2007-03-11
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Gregory Palamas
Mark 2:1-12
2007-03-04
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Triumph Of Orthodoxy
2007-02-25
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
2007-02-18
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
2007-02-11
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
2007-02-04
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Publican And Pharisee
Zacchaeus is saved by his humility.
Matthew 15:21-28
2007-01-28
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zaccheaus
2007-01-21
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
The Real Christmas Story
Galations 4:4-7
2007-01-07
- "And the wolf shall lie down with the lamb." Change within the human heart is now possible! Vespers on the Eve of Nativity. (mp3 format)
Isaiah 11:1-10
2007-01-06
SYNOPSIS:A short reflection on the text from Isaiah 11:1-10, read during Vespers on the Eve of Nativity: "And the wolf shall lie down with the lamb." This describes the change possible in the human heart made possible only because of Jesus Christ.
- Misc (HTML format)
About Prayer
2005-01-05
- Misc (mp3 format)
Blessed Is God Who Restest In The Saints
2004
- Holy Friday (mp3 format)
At The Tomb
2003
- 5th Matins Gospel (HTML format)
Matins Gospel 05, The road to Emmaus
2002-06-03
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Word DOC - Crowning (Marriage) (Word DOC format)
Nicholas And Genevieve Park
2002
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Demoniac Boy
2001
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Paralytic
2000
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Luke 10-25-37
1999-11-24
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Word DOC - 5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
- 10th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1998-08-25
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Myrrhbearing women
"Who will roll away the stone?"
Mark 15:43-47
1998
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The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1997-08-26
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
1997
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The Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Luke 17-12-19
199612-22
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Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
1996-12-29
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The Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
1996-12-06
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Luke 8-26-39
1996-10-28
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Parable Of The Sower
Luke 8-5-15-Galatians 2-16-20
1996-10-14
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The Healing Of The Blind Man By The Wayside
Luke 18:35-43
1996
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Archimandrite Demetrios Carellas
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Sundays After Pentecost
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Publican and the Pharisee
Prodigal Son
Sunday of the Last Judgment
Forgiveness Sunday
Great Lent
1st Sunday of Great Lent
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Lazarus Saturday
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Holy Week
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Sundays of Pascha
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- 35th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Healing Of The Blind Man By The Wayside
Luke 18:35-43
1996
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Sower
Luke 8-5-15-Galatians 2-16-20
1996-10-14
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Luke 8-26-39
1996-10-28
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 27th Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)
The Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
1996-12-06
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
1996-12-29
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 29th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
The Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Luke 17-12-19
199612-22
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
1997
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 10th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1997-08-26
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Myrrhbearing women
"Who will roll away the stone?"
Mark 15:43-47
1998
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 10th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
The Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son Mat17;14 23
1998-08-25
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Good Samaritan
Luke 10-25-37
1999-11-24
Also in Format:
Word DOC - 4th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Paralytic
2000
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Demoniac Boy
2001
Also in Format:
Word DOC - Crowning (Marriage) (Word DOC format)
Nicholas And Genevieve Park
2002
- 5th Matins Gospel (HTML format)
Matins Gospel 05, The road to Emmaus
2002-06-03
Also in Format:
Word DOC - Holy Friday (mp3 format)
At The Tomb
2003
- Misc (mp3 format)
Blessed Is God Who Restest In The Saints
2004
- Misc (HTML format)
About Prayer
2005-01-05
- "And the wolf shall lie down with the lamb." Change within the human heart is now possible! Vespers on the Eve of Nativity. (mp3 format)
Isaiah 11:1-10
2007-01-06
SYNOPSIS:A short reflection on the text from Isaiah 11:1-10, read during Vespers on the Eve of Nativity: "And the wolf shall lie down with the lamb." This describes the change possible in the human heart made possible only because of Jesus Christ.
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
The Real Christmas Story
Galations 4:4-7
2007-01-07
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zaccheaus
2007-01-21
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Publican And Pharisee
Zacchaeus is saved by his humility.
Matthew 15:21-28
2007-01-28
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
2007-02-04
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
2007-02-11
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
2007-02-18
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Triumph Of Orthodoxy
2007-02-25
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Gregory Palamas
Mark 2:1-12
2007-03-04
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Veneration Of The Holy Cross
2007-03-11
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Saint John Climacus
2007-03-18
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mp3 - 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Mary Of Egypt
2007-03-25
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
2corinthians6;1 10
Matthew25;14 30
2007-09-16
- 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
2007-09-30
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Ephesians 2:4-10, Luke 8:26-39
2007-11-04
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
My Yoke Is Easy And My Burden Is Light
2007-11-11
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Parable Of The Rich Man Whose Ground Brought Forth Plentifully
An Urgent Question We Must Answer; What Shall I Do
Ephesians 5:9-19, Luke 12:16-21
2007-11-25
- 29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Healing Of The 10 Lepers
10 Are Cleansed But Only The One With Graditude Is Made Whole
1 Timothy 1:15-17, Luke 17:12-19
2007-12-03
- 28th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Blind Man Who Cried Jesus Son Of David Have Mercy On Me
The True Meaning Of Lord Have Mercy
Col 1:12-18, Luke 18:35-43
2007-12-09
- 31st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Question Of The Ruler
The Hard Sayings Of Jesus; It Is Not Really About The Money
Luke 18:18-27
2007-12-23
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper An Invitation To Become Not To Eat
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2007-12-30
- 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 - 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2008-01-11
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
How Can We Make Sense Out Of The Senseless
Galatians 1:11-19, Matthew 2:13-2
2008-01-13
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Is Now
John 11:1-45
2008-01-19
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
Sunday After Theophany
The Meaning Of The Winter Pascha; Our Nature Is Changed, We Are No Longer Captives
Ephesians 4:7-13, Matthew 4:12-17
2008-01-20
- 35th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
For Ye Have Need Of Patience
Hebrews 10:35-11:7
2008-01-24
- 35th Friday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Which Country Are We Mindful Of
Hebrews 11:8,11-16
2008-01-25
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Parable Of The Ten Virgins
Aquiring The Holy Spirit
Matthew 25:1-13
2008-01-27
- 36th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Canaanite Woman
A Perfect Example Of How To Pray
Matthew 15:21-28
2008-02-03
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zaccheaus
Encouragement
2008-02-10
- 38th Monday after Pentecost (HTML format)
What Did Christ Do On The Cross
1 Peter 2:21-3:9
2008-02-11
Also in Format:
RTF - 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
2008-02-18
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment
The Judgment Is All About Love
Matthew 25:31-46
2008-03-02
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Paralytic
When Jesus Saw Their Faith
Mark 2:1-12
2008-03-23
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
Two Ways
Mark 8:34-91
2008-03-30
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Realistic Hope
Mark 9:17-31
2008-04-06
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Mary Of Egypt
Who Loves The Most
Luke 7:36-50
2008-04-14
- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
These Things They Did Not Understand At First
John 12:1-18
2008-04-21
- Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Agape Vespers
2008-04-27
- 2nd Sunday of Pascha; Thomas Sunday (mp3 format)
Two ways to be at peace
John 20:19-31
2008-05-04
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing women
Mark 15:43-47
2008-05-11
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The Paralytic
Baptism explained
John 5:1-15
2008-05-21
- 5th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
The Samaritan Woman
She left her waterpot.
John 4:5-42
2008-05-25
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The Blind Man
It really is about character too.
John 9:1-38
2008-06-01
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Part 1 Part 2- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council
What is Heaven?
John 17:1-13
2008-06-08
- Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
If any man thirst...
Three important things.
John 7:37-52: 8:12
2008-06-16
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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...- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Sunday of All Saints
The answer to every question.
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30
2008-06-22
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
All Saints of Russia
You are not alone!
Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2008-06-29
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The light of the body is the eye.
Matthew 6:22-33
2008-07-06
- Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. What defines the ministry of the Apostles?
Peter's confession.
The hundred and fifty three fish and the Restoration of Peter.
The life of the Apostles and the church is built upon the bedrock of the confession of faith. (HTML format)
Matthew 16:13-19 John 21:15-25
2008-07-12
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mp3
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
"According to your faith, be it unto you"
Matthew 9:27-35, Romans 15:1-7
2008-08-03
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."
- 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
2008-08-10
Video of this homily- 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
2008-08-17
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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"?- Transfiguration (HTML format)
Human nature in the midst of the Divine.
Luke 9:28-36 (The Gospel For Matins)
2008-08-19
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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. - 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
2008-08-24
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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).- 11th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 12th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- Beheading of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner and Baptist John. Possibilities and clarity, and the Kontakion of the feast. (HTML format)
2008-09-11
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:Thoughts concering the Kontakion of the feast of the beheading of the Forerunner, and the precious gift of clarity of thought sometimes given especially during the early morning liturgy.
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
- Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)
Nativity of the Theotokos, Sep 8/21
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus"
Philippians 2:5-11
2008-09-21
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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. - Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
John 12:28-36, 1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2008-09-27
- 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
2008-09-28
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
In summary, "Receive not the grace of God in vain"
Matthew 25:14-30, 2 Corinthians 6:1-10
2008-10-05
- 17th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Canaanite Woman
Lessons in how to pray.
Matthew 15:21-28
2008-10-12
- 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
2008-10-19
You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
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Veoh- 19th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
"As ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise."
Luke 6:31-36
2008-10-26
- 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
2008-11-02
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- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Rich Man and Lazarus
Be a good steward.
Luke 16:19-31
2008-11-16
- 23rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Gadarene Demoniac
Do not miss any opportunity!
Ephesians 2:4-10, Luke 8:26-39
2008-11-23
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
- 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
2008-12-14
- 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
2008-12-21
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Luke 14:16-24
2008-12-28
- Lazarus Saturday (HTML format)
Lazarus Saturday
The Resurrection Applies To Us Now
John 11-1-45
2009
Also in Format:
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Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2009-01-04
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
The whole meaning of Christmas is in today's epistle
Galatians 4:4-7
2009-01-07
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
Things are not as they seem!
2009-01-11
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
Baptism allows us to fulfil all righteousness.
Matthew 3:13-17
2009-01-19
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Matthew 4:12-17
2009-01-25
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
A "before" and "beginning" story, to be continued...
Luke 19:1-10
2009-02-01
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mp3 - 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Prodigal Son
The most important part of the parable.
Luke 15:11-32
2009-02-16
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Matthew 25:31-46
2009-02-22
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Saint Gregory Palamas and the Healing of the paralytic borne of four.
The answer to the question: "Can anything good come out of Nazareth
Mark 2:1-12, John 1:43-51
2009-02-28
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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. - 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
2009-03-01
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Triumph Of Orthodoxy
How do *we* partake in the triumph of Orthodoxy?
Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-12:2 John 1:43-51
2009-03-08
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Paralytic
We must labor to be healed of our spiritual paralysis.
Hebrews 1:10-2:3 Mark 2:1-12
2009-03-15
You can watch this sermon on the following video platforms:
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Veoh- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Adoration of the Precious Cross
Whosover will...
2009-03-22
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Mark 9:17-31
2009-03-29
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
St Mary of Egypt.
A perfect decription of any true Christian.
Luke 7:36-50
2009-04-05
- Palm Sunday (Word DOC format)
The inner meaning of Palm Sunday.
Philippians 4:4-9 John 12:1-18
2009-04-12
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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.- Holy Friday (HTML format)
At The Tomb
2009-04-17
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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. ...- Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Let us forgive all things on the resurrection.
2009-04-19
- Bright Thursday (HTML format)
Nicodemus meets Jesus.
Illumination by degrees, but only if we stay in the kitchen!
John 3:1-15
2009-04-23
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Two parts to our story.
John 20:19-31
2009-04-26
- 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
2009-05-03
- 4th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Another important question.
John 5:1-15
2009-05-10
- 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
- 6th Thursday after pascha (HTML format)
Ascension
The whole of our faith is Jesus Christ. Two prophesies, one fulfilled, one being fulfilled.
2009-05-28
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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. - 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
2009-05-31
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- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 2nd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 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
2009-06-28
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mp3 - Saint John Maximovich (mp3 format)
2009-07-04
- 4th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
- 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
2009-07-12
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mp3 - 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing of the paralytic.
The inner life.
Matthew 9:1-8
2009-07-19
- 7th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Likeminded with unbelievers?
Romans 15:1-7 Matthew 9:27-35
2009-07-26
- 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
2009-08-01
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'.
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Walking On The Water
A parable of our own lives.
Matthew 14:22-34
2009-08-09
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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. - 10th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
- 11th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
It is all about imitation.
Matthew 18:23-35
2009-08-23
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mp3 - Feasts of the Theotokos (HTML format)
Dormition
Explanation Of The Dormition Troparion
2009-08-28
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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- 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
2009-08-30
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Veoh- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Vineyard
Anything about the Jews is about us too.
Matthew 21:33-42
2009-09-06
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
Matthew 22:1-14
2009-09-18
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
A promise that only one man can deliver, after the cross.
John 3:13-17
2009-09-20
- Exaltation of the Cross (HTML format)
We Preach Christ Crucified
What is the way of the cross?
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2009-09-27
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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. - Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2009-10-04
- 18th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Great Catch Of Fish
The Greatest Miracle Was Not The Fish
Luke 5:1-11
2009-10-11
- 19th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Golden Rule
Ye Shall Be The Children Of The Highest
Luke 6:31-36
2009-10-18
SYNOPSIS:The "Golden Rule" is explained, including a mention of how the world twists this rule into a sort of magical "law of attraction". The REASON for the golden rule and everything we do is because we are "children of the highest".
- 20th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Widow of Nain.
This is our life in microcosm.
Luke 7:11-16
2009-10-25
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mp3 - 21st Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Sower
Having Ears To Hear Is Only Possible If There Is Good Ground
Luke 8:5-15
2009-11-01
- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Rich Man And Lazarus
A Important Principle Is Taught
Luke 16:19-31
2009-11-08
- 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
2009-11-22
An exposition of Ephesians 2:14-22, and the healing of the woman with an issue of blood, which make the same important point.
- 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Greatest Commandment and Parable of the Good Samaritan
Two answers to the question who is my neighbor
Luke 10:25-37
2009-11-29
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.
- 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,
2009-12-06
- 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Woman With An Infirmity Of Eighteen Years
Luke 13-10-17
2009-12-13
- 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
2009-12-20
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2009-12-27
- 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.
- Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
Saint John Of Kronstadt, and The Purpose Of The Incarnation, "Ye shall be children of the Highest"
Luke 6:31-36
2010-01-02
SYNOPSIS:On this Sunday before Nativity, St John of Kronstadt is also commemorated, and the Gospel for him and his life perfectly describes the purpose of the Incarnation. This Gospel contains our Lord's admonishments to love, using concrete examples, and concludes with the promise "And ye shall be children of the highest". This is the purpose of the incarnation, and examining this Gospel along with St John's life, which struggled to fulfill it illuminates this purpose for us, therefore, on this Sunday when we read the "Begats", it is appropriate to delve into what is means to be children of the highest, and how and why we can attain this high calling. We also suggest another way to describe the "Golden Rule" and what should be our inner motivation for loving our fellow man, and doing anything that is good in this life.
- Sunday before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Fathers
A Life Parable In The Kindness Of Joseph
Matthew 1-1-25
2010-01-03
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
2010-01-07
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
Matthew 2:13-23
2010-01-10
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Find a way!
Luke 19:1-10
2010-01-17
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
The theme of Great Lent
Luke 18:10-14
2010-01-24
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mp3 - 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
2010-01-31
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (HTML format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Matthew 25:31-46
2010-02-07
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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?- 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
2010-02-14
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Triumph Of Orthodocxy
Pleasures Of Sin For A Season
Hebrews 11:24-26, 32-12:2, John 1:43-51
2010-02-21
SYNOPSIS:What is the triumph of Orthodoxy? A short synopsis of the historical background, then discussion of what this triumph is for the individual. It involves "faith", understanding that the pleasures of sin are for a season, and believing that a good thing CAN come out of Nazareth.
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Veneration Of The Holy Cross
We cannot see the Kingdom of God come with power unless we follow the way of the cross.
Mark 8:34-9:1
2010-03-07
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Demoniac Boy
Mark 9:17-31
2010-03-14
- 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
2010-03-21
- Palm Sunday (HTML format)
Palm Sunday
Why did we read this Epistle? Principles of scriptural exegesis.
Philippians 4:4-9
2010-03-28
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mp3 - Holy Friday (mp3 format)
Before the tomb and epitaphios.
Behold the man!
Holy Friday Vespers
2010-04-02
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.
- Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
Agape Vespers
Paschal Instructions
2010-04-04
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mp3 - Saint Thomas Sunday - Realism about the resurrection! (HTML format)
John 20:19-31
2010-04-11
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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. - 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrhhbearing Women
Mark 15:43-16:8
2010-04-18
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.
- 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
2010-04-25
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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.- 5th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2010-05-02
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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. - 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
2010-05-09
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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? ...- 7th Sunday of Pascha (HTML format)
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
2010-05-16
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mp3 - Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The ministry of the Holy Spirit and the most important word.
John 20:19-23 Acts 2:1-11
2010-05-23
- 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
2010-05-30
- 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
2010-06-06
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.
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Answer All The Questions
Matthew 6:22-33
2010-06-13
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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? ... - 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
"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.
2010-06-20
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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.- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Gergesenes Demoniacs
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2010-06-27
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.
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Paralytic
A Promise And Rebuke Regarding Faith
Matthew 9:1-8
2010-07-04
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?
- 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
2010-07-11
- 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
2010-07-18
- 9th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
We are labourers together with God
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2010-07-25
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?
- 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
2010-08-01
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mp3 - 11th Sunday of Pentecost (HTML format)
Parable Of The Unmerciful Debtor
Gratitude and Self Knowledge lead to forgiving others.
Matthew 18:23-35
2010-08-08
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mp3 - 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
2010-08-15
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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. ...- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
A Prophesy Of Things To Come
Partakers Of Divine Nature
2010-08-19
- 13th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable of the Vineyard
We must bear fruit
Matthew 21:33-42
2010-08-23
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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. - 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
It Is Always About Morality
Matthew 22:1-14
2010-08-29
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.
- 15th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Greatest Commandment
Matthew 22-35-46
2010-09-05
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable Of The Talents
Receive Not The Grace Of God In Vain
2 Corinthians 6:1-10,Matthew 25-14-30
2010-09-12
Also in Format:
mp3 You can watch this sermon in two parts:
Part 1 Part 2SYNOPSIS:Both the epistle and the Gospel story of the parable of the talents express the same basic idea: we must, as the Epistle puts it "receive not the grace of God in vain." The epistle discusses in great detail how we can "trade" with this grace (called talents in the parable).- The Canaanite woman - Exactly how to pray. (HTML format)
Matthew 15:21-28
2010-09-19
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Caananite woman teaches us *exactly* how we should pray: with knowledge, simplicity, persistence and humility. A close examination of her encounter with Christ shows these virtues plainly, and should also show us which ones we are lacking in (definitely at least 3 of the 4!).
- 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
2010-09-26
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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. ...- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2010-10
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Two Identical Definitions of Christianity. What is the way of the Cross? Important questions we must answer.
Galatians 2:16-20, Mark 8:34-9:1
2010-10-03
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle and Gospel for the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Cross both contain identical 'definitions' of Christianity. They both involve the cross, which is an instrument of death and of life. All Christians must voluntarily be crucified with Christ, and take up their cross. This is explained by our Lord's instruction that we must 'lose' our life to save it, and His questions: For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? We must understand this if we are to truly live the Christian life and know Christ.
- 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
2010-10-10
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.
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Christian Justification
Galatians 2:16-20
2010-10-18
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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. - 20th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Widow Of Nain
Oil And Wine
Galatians 6:11-18 Luke 7:11-16
2010-10-24
- 21st Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
Parable Of The Sower
Grace,faith,works
Ephesians 2:4-10,Luke 8:5-15
2010-10-31
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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".- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
He Is Our Peace
Ephesians 2:14-22
2010-11-07
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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? - 25th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
One Body, One Spirit, One Hope, One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism
Descending,then Ascending Fulfills The Gospel
Ephesians 4-1-6
2010-11-14
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
2010-11-28
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.
- 28th Sunday after Pentecost (HTML format)
Partakers of the inheritance of the saints
Read the scriptures!
Colossians 1:12-18
2010-12-04
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:In this on a Sunday (a short talk after liturgy), the important selection from the first chapter of Colossions is discussed, with an emphasis on the context of the selection and the important Christological dogma expressed, which was later faithfully reproduced in the Symbol of Faith. It is important to read this passage correctly, as some heretics, such as the Arians (Jehovah Witnesses) do not understand the phrase . Also, the importance of reading the scriptures is mentioned. - 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
2010-12-06
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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 . - 27th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Jesus Christ Came Into The World To Save Sinners
What Is Sin
1 Timothy 1:15-17 Luke 13:10-17
2010-12-12
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.
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper
Colossians 3:4-11, Luke 14:16-24
2010-12-27
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great Supper is explained, and compared with the Parable of the Wedding Feast, and selection from Colossions is related to the inner meaning of the parable.
- 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!- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
He Sought To See Jesus Who He Was
Luke 19:1-10
2011--02-06
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?
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Eve of Nativity
We worship Thy Nativity O Christ, show us also Thy divine Theophany
2011-01-06
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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
2011-01-07
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.
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
Sunday After Nativity
Joseph The Betrothed
2011-01-09
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Word DOC - Sunday before Theophany (mp3 format)
Prepare Ye The Way Of The Lord Make His Paths Straight
Mark 1:1-8
2011-01-10
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Theophany we read from the beginning of the Gospel of Mark 2 important prophesies regarding the ministry of Jesus Christ, and regarding the ministry of John the Baptist. The "baptism of John", and of Christ, and our own is explained, and the admonition of St John: "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight", which applies to each one of us, all the time, is explained. There is a very important nuance of meaning that is missed by too many Christians. Our life must be a continual attempt to obey this admonition, and without our effort to do so, we cannot be saved, while, on the other hand, our success in fulfilling this command does not determine if we are saved either. This is the old faith vs. works argument, which, for those who were not raised in the church, can be very confusing. It is actually quite easy to understand (after you have understood it!). Our baptism, and all that God does to give us His grace, enables us to become perfected and to know Him. We are responsible for trying, and only because of His help, we will succeed. Overall, if our life is an effort to fulfill this commandment, we will be saved.
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
The Grace Of God That Bringeth Salvation Hath Appeared To All Men
2011-01-19
SYNOPSIS:Explanation of the reason for the Lord's baptism, including the prophesies about the visible changes in the Jordan when the Lord was baptised.
- Sunday after Theophany (mp3 format)
The Measure Of The Gift Of Christ
Ephesians 4:7-13
2011-01-23
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the epistle read for the Sunday after Theophany, Ephesians 4:7-13. Why is this epistle read? What is "the measure of the gift of Christ." "He led captivity captive" describes what Christ's death and resurrection did for us, and is a way of understanding the effects of sin.
- 36th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Pure Religion And Undefiled Before God And The Father Is This
James 1-19-27
2011-01-27
- 36th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
This Is A Faithful Saying And Worthy Of All Acceptation That Christ Jesus Came Into The World To Save Sinners Of Whom I Am Chief
1 Timothy:15-17
2011-01-30
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.
- 2nd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
Do not judge.
Luke 18:10-14
2011-02-13
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)
Sunday Of The Publican And Pharisee
He Came To Himself
Luke 15:11-32
2011-02-20
- 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
2011-02-25
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."
- Week of the Prodigal Son;Saturday (mp3 format)
Saturday Of The Dead
1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 John 5:24-30
2011-02-26
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?
- 4th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Last Judgment Meatfare
Things That Are Repeated Are Important
Matthew 25:31-46
2011-02-27
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.
- Bright Thursday (mp3 format)
That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
The encounter with Nicodemus.
John 3:1-15
2011-02-28
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the encounter of Nicodemus with Christ.
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Forgiveness Sunday And Cheesefare Sunday
The Triodion teaches us how to think
2011-03-05
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
2011-03-06
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.
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Saint Gregory Palamas I Am The Door By Me If Any Man Enter In He Shall Be Saved And Shall Go In And Out And Find Pasture
John 10-9-16
2011-03-11
SYNOPSIS:This is an important discussion, too wonderful to believe for most Christians, but absolutely true, and the main teaching of St Gregory Palamas: To be Christian is to become perfect. The Gospel for St. Gregory teaches this in a hidden way, when it says: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture". Let us look in wonder at his teaching, the Gospel John 10:9-16, and the Matins Theotokion: "Adam&'s nature was made Godlike O Virgin, when without undergoing change, God took flesh within thy womb, and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming Gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation", and how we are to pursue perfection.
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Uncircumscribed Word Of The Father Became Circumscribed
The Meaning Of Icons
2011-03-12
SYNOPSIS:The true meaning of icons is proclaimed in the Sunday of Orthodoxy Services. The "surface meaning" of an icon is that we can depict Jesus Christ as a man precisely because He became a man. We are not satisfied with such a shallow explanation, and the services delve much deeper into the meaning of the incarnation. Two examples, one from Vespers, and the other from matins, describe the wonder of the incarnation. Every time we gaze upon an icon, we must remember that we, who have nothing in common with God, can know God because He chose to have everything in common (one hymn, below, describes this as the God-man taking on all the "distinctive properties" of our flesh), with us, save sin.
Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, "Lord I have cried", Tone VI, spec. mel.: 'Having set all your hope')
The uncircumscribed Word of the Father became circumscribed, taking flesh from thee, O Theotokos, and He restored the sullied image to its ancient glory, filling it with the divine beauty. This our salvation we confess in deed and word, and we depict it in the holy icons. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Kontakion, Tone 8)
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Paralytic Borne Of Four
Sin Sickness Faith Prayer
Mark 2-1-12
2011-03-13
- 2nd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Salvation defined: "If any man enter in he shall be saved and shall go in and out and find pasture"
Saint Gregory Palamas and the healing of the paralytic borne of four
John 10:9-16, Mark 2:1-12
2011-03-20
SYNOPSIS:The reading for St Gregory Palamas today contains a beautiful "definition" of salvation:"If any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture" This is true freedom, where the will is able to always choose the right way. We explore how we can obtain this kind of freedom, which the world does not understand, using examples from both Gospels read today.
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Holy Cross
Before Thy Cross We Bow Down And Worship
2011-03-26
SYNOPSIS:Why do we prostrate before the Cross, even on Sunday? An explanation of the hymn before the cross: "Before Thy cross, we bow down in worship, O Master, and Thy holy resurrection, we glorify"
- 3rd Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Holy Cross
What Shall A Man Give In Exchange For His Soul
Mark 8:34-9:1
2011-03-27
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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.- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
The dark sorrow of material things.
The sweetness of abstinence.
2011-03-30
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
2011-04-02
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
2011-04-03
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.
- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
Palm Sunday
Philippians 4-4-9-John 12-1-18
2011-04-08
SYNOPSIS:Why do we read this epistle on Palm Sunday, since it is not about suffering, or the cross or the resurrection? There are many other epistles about these things, but this epistle contains instructions that must be applied during Holy Week in order to truly benefit from Pascha. We can understand how to apply the Apostle Paul's instructions by looking at the good and bad examples in today's Gospel, such as Mary, who annointed the Lord, Judas, the people, and the high priests. There are many lessons here, and all of Holy Week will contain many more. The Lord is at hand!
- 5th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Mary Of Egypt Shows Us How To Repent
How To Cultivate A Repentant Spirit
2011-04-09
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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
2011-04-10
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.
- Lazarus Saturday (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.
John 11-1-45
2011-04-13
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
2011-04-15
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
2011-04-16
- Palm Sunday (mp3 format)
Rejoice In The Lord Alway And Again I Say Rejoice
Philippians 4:4-9
2011-04-17
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.
- Holy Tuesday (HTML format)
Judas with avaricious thoughts, ponders, plots, and accepts the darkness.
The progression of sin into self imposed slavery.
2011-04-18
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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)- Holy Wednesday (mp3 format)
While the sinful woman brought oil of myrrh, the disciple came to an agreement with the transgressors...
Comparing and personalizing Judas and the woman of bethany.
Holy Wednesday Matins
2011-04-19
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
2011-04-20
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 (mp3 format)
He reckoned up the value of the oil of myrrh, and yet was not afraid to sell Thee who art above all price.
Holy Thursday Liturgy
2011-04-21
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 (mp3 format)
Homily Before The Shroud
3 Reactions To Christ Hate Love Indifference
Holy-Friday-Vespers
2011-04-22
- 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
2011-04-23
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.
- Why are the altar doors open on pascha? When are they closed and what does it mean? (HTML format)
2011-04-30
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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
2011-05-01
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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. - 2nd Thursday of pascha (mp3 format)
John 5-24-30
2011-05-02
- 2nd Wednesday of pascha (mp3 format)
2011-05-04
- 3rd Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Myrrhbearing Women
2011-05-07
- 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
2011-05-08
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.
- 3rd Thursday of pascha (mp3 format)
Acts 8-26-39-John 6-40-44
2011-05-12
- 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
2011-05-14
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
2011-05-15
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.
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
John 9:1-38
2011-05-20
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.
- 5th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
The Samaritan Woman
A textbook example of how to listen to God.
John 4:5-42
2011-05-22
- 6th Sunday of Pascha (Word DOC format)
The Sunday of the Blind Man
What must I do to be saved?
John 9:1-38
2011-05-29
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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.- 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Exegesis Of Old Testament Parables Read During Ascension Vespers
2011-06-01
- 6th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
Ascension
Human Nature Deified Holy Spirit Sent Judgment To Come
2011-06-02
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Holy Fathers Of The First Ecumenical Council
The High Priestly Prayer Of Jesus Christ
John 17:1-13
2011-06-05
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.
- 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
2011-06-09
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.
- 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
2011-06-11
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
2011-06-12
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!- 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
2011-06-15
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.
- 1st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Jesus Teaches A New Way Of Understanding Sin
All Life Is Lived From The Heart
Matthew 5:27-32, Romans 1:28-2-9
2011-06-16
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.
- 1st Sunday after Pentecost (RTF format)
Exegesis Of Sunday Of All Saints Vespers Parables
Isaiah 43:9-14 Wisdom 3:1-9 Wisdom 5:15-6:3
2011-06-19
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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) - 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
2011-06-22
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)
Romans 5:10-16
2011-06-23
- 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
2011-06-26
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?
- 3rd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Groaning Hope And Prayer
The Spirit Itself Maketh Intercession For Us
Romans 8:22-27
2011-06-30
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.
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
How To Discern Light And Darkness In The Eye Of The Soul
Matthew 6:22-33
2011-07-03
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?
- 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
2011-07-06
SYNOPSIS:The Vespers parables for the Nativity of St John are what we might expect: the stories of barren women who bare children (notable Sarah, who bore Isaac, and the unnamed mother of Sampson, wife of Manoah) and the seminal passage from Isaiah which prophesies the coming of the Forerunner, with the memorable line "The voice of one crying in the desert: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the wilderness the paths of our God"). What is important about these readings? Since the whole of the teaching of the Baptist was preparation via morality, we can expect there to be a heavy emphasis on how we should live. By the way, astute listeners will recognize that the second reading was incorrectly identified as referring to Hanna, the mother of Samuel, when actually the reading is about Sampson. Of course, Hannah was another barren woman who bore a child. Ooops.
- Nativity of John the Baptist. The Teaching of John the Baptist Explained by St Paul (mp3 format)
Romans 13:11-14:4
2011-07-07
SYNOPSIS:The selection from Romans read for the Nativity of the Forerunner is a remarkable summary of the core teaching of St John the Baptist. Note that "teaching" is not plural, because, primarily, the Holy Forerunner was concerned with only one thing - preparing the way for the immanent appearance in the world of Jesus Christ, and he could only see one way to do this: "make his paths straight" We discuss how St Paul summarizes this teaching and also the wonderful assertion that " now is our salvation nearer than when we believed", which also applies very much to the ministry of St John, and should be realized by us each succeeding day of our life.
- 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
2011-07-10
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.
- 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
2011-07-12
Also in Format:
Word DOC or
mp3 SYNOPSIS:A short exegesis of the 3 selections from the Epistles of the Apostle Peter, read at the Vespers for the feast of the Apostles Peter and Paul. The difference between their writings is explored. The Apostle Peter writes with simplicity and the conviction and wisdom that can only be gained by a life lived well, with many moral admonitions, based upon a deep understanding of what the God-man has done for us. It is like listening to your wise grandfather imparting his wisdom at the end of his life. He does not feel compelled to give detailed proofs, but he merely speaks with overpowering conviction because of experience. A few of verses from the selections are explored to illustrate this kind of "fireside chat" character of his writings. Those who are temped to call themselves Christians and still not heed the words of the Apostle " abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" should read the Apostle with greater care and humility. We are in an age that very much needs to heed the words of the Apostle Peter. There is also a short excursus into Peter's restoration and how he was able eventually to say to His Lord, not only did he have affection for Him, but that He loved him with an all consuming, perfect love. This love is only possible if the admonitions of Peter are heeded.
- "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
2011-07-17
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.
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Remission Of Sins Of The Paralytic And Woman Who Was A Sinner
Matthew 9-1-8,Luke 7-36-50
2011-07-24
- 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
2011-08-07
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.
- 9th Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Whosoever Will Be Great Among You Let Him Be Your Minister And Whosoever Will Be Chief Among You Let Him Be Your Servant
Matthew 20-17-28
2011-08-11
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
I came to knowledge of thy works
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Ode-4-Irmos
2011-08-14
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.
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
Illumined With Effulgence Of The Virtues
To Be In The Presence Of God
Vespers Aposticha For The Prefestival Of The Transfiguration
2011-08-17
SYNOPSIS:The most important aspect of the Transfiguration of our Lord on Mount Tabor is that it is a harbinger of things to come. The apostles were not ready to be in the presence of the divine uncreated light of God, and yet in the end we all will be in His presence. What must we do to become ready? The aposticha for the forefeast teaches us: "Illumined with the effulgence of the virtues, let us proceed to the holy mountain, that we may behold the divine Transfiguration of the Lord." (Vespers Aposticha, August 5, Forefeast of the Transfiguration). Let us look at what happened to the apostles and why and what we must do as the aposticha teaches.
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
Old Testament Appearances Of Jesus Christ
Exegesis of the Parables For Transfiguration Vespers
Exodus 24:12-18 : Exodus 33:11-23: 34:4-6, 8 : 1 Kings 19:3-9, 11-13, 15-16
2011-08-18
SYNOPSIS:Similar events to the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ occured in the Old Testament. Three selections from the Old Testament are read during the Vespers, involving Moses twice and also the Prophet Elijah. These parables are briefly explained.
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
2011-08-19
- Transfiguration (mp3 format)
Revealing The Human Form I Emit Unapproachable Light Having Put On All Of Adam And Transformed Human Nature
Transfiguration Matins Teaches Us The Meaning Of The Feast
2011-08-20
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)
- 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
2011-08-21
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.
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
The Law of God understood in the Orthodox way
Small Paraklesis Canon Ode 5
2011-08-23
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
2011-08-24
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
2011-08-25
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
I Shall Commemorate Thy Name In Every Generation And Generation
The True Church Remembers The Theotokos
Prokeimenon
2011-08-27
- Feasts of the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos
"Mary hath chosen that good part" and "blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it."
Luke 10:38-42,11:27-28
2011-08-28
SYNOPSIS:The usual reading for feasts of the Mother of God is actually a composite reading in which she does not appear at all, but another "Mary" (the sister of Lazarus) is mentioned, who shares her name. The reason why is because this selection, coupled with a later part of the same Gospel succinctly sums up the virtues of the Theotokos: "Mary hath chosen that good part" and "blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it." On this great day, let us examine ourselves, as to whether we have also chosen that good part, and kept the word of God. This is why we venerate the Most Holy Theotokos with such love; our veneration is in vain if we do not also emulate! Let us examine how we can accomplish this.
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Gospel For The Theotokos
Small-Paraklesis-Gospel-Reading-Luke 1-39-49
2011-08-29
- Paraklesis Canon to the Theotokos (mp3 format)
Godly Sorrow
Small-Paraklesis-Canon-Hymns-After-The-Gospel
2011-09-03
- 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
2011-09-04
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Beheading Of The Glorious Prophet Forerunner And Baptist John
Hidden Addictions And Passions Kill.
Mark 6:14-30
2011-09-11
SYNOPSIS:The story of the beheading of John the Baptist shows us how an ordinary life ends in death. Herod was an ordinary man, since he was ruled by his passions and sins (lust,adultery,ambition,drunkeness) and because of his indulgence in his passions, most if which he was not aware of, he was also a coward, and when he made an unwise oath, he was unwilling to renege on it to save face. Therefore, he had Saint john beheaded, who then passed into eternal life, and Herod continued his descent into eternal death. We explore especially how hidden passions (present in all of us!) can kill the soul.
- 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
2011-09-14
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Harrowing Of Hell
Delivered From Deception By His Compassions
Octoechos-Tone-5-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-09-17
- 14th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Wedding Feast
The Wedding Garment Is Christ
Matthew 22:1-14
2011-09-18
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
Two Hymns Explaining What Happened On The Cross
2011-09-24
- What does this mean - God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we have this treasure in earthen vessels? (mp3 format)
Sunday Before The Exaltation
2 Corinthians 4:6-15, Galatians 6:11-18
2011-09-25
SYNOPSIS:On this Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross, two of the epistle readings (2 Corinthians 4:6-15 and Galatians 6:11-18) relate directly to the cross. St Paul states emphatically: "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." What does it mean to "glory" in the cross? People glory in many things - wealth, attractiveness, popularity, political correctness, having a good marriage, job, etc. None of these things is glorying in the cross. We answer this important question, and also why we who are "new creatures" because of the cross "have this treasure in earthen vessels".
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
The Length And Height Of The Cross Is Equal To Heaven
Praises-Matins
2011-09-26
- The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (mp3 format)
The Preaching Of The Cross Is To Them That Perish Foolishness; But Unto Us Which Are Saved It Is The Power Of God
1 Corinthians 1:18-24
2011-09-27
- 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
2011-09-29
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!
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
Sunday After The Exaltation
Christ Liveth In Me
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:4-9:1
2011-10-02
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Conception Of The Venerable Prophet Forerunner And Baptist John
Childrens Sermon
2011-10-06
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Apostle John The Theologian Showed Perfect Love With A Robber
Exegesis Of Vespers Readings Especially The Heart And Love
2011-10-08
- The reason for the golden rule: "Ye shall be the children of the highest for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil" (mp3 format)
Luke 6:31-36
2011-10-16
SYNOPSIS:Everybody knows the Golden Rule, but few understand is essence. Many feel it is a command based upon common sense, and others even believe it is a way of changing the behavior of others. The reason for it is given plainly by the words of our Lord: "Your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil." We explore the great privilege we have as Christians to become Children of the Highest, and why the fulfillment if the Golden Rule is indispensable for this to happen
- "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)
2011-10-19
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.
- "And the Lord ... said unto her, Weep not. And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still." - The mystical and very practical meaning of these words. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16 Galatians 5:22-6:2
2011-10-23
SYNOPSIS:Only the Lord has the authority to tell us to "weep not". There is an epidemic of dysfunctional sadness in the world today; it is being treated by many partial solutions that often increase the despair and emptiness: medications, entertainments, passions. After His command to the Widow of Nain, the Lord mystically gives us the path we must travel in order to fulfill His command to "weep not" - "And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still." There is no other path that leads to true happiness. We explore the mystical meaning of these words, also incorporating an epistle read today: "And they that are Christ&'s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." and "Bear ye one another&'s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.", and offer many practical suggestions on what we must do to live according to these words. the only key to happiness is here. The World does not have it; only Christ does, and through the healing of the Widow of Nain and the exhortation of St Paul to the Galatians, the path to it is clearly explained.
- The longer explanation of the Parable of the Sower, the purpose of life and how to be good ground - Take heed therefore how ye hear! (mp3 format)
Luke 8:5-15
2011-10-30
SYNOPSIS:The parable of the sower is a rare parable, in that it is explained by the Lord Himself. This explanation is actually longer than most people think and we discuss what His other words, which are not part of the traditional reading, mean. These include "No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel" and "Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have." Together with the parable, the explanation teaches us the basic purpose of life and how to be "good ground".
- 22nd Tuesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
If Any Man Will Come After Me Let Him Deny Himself And Take Up His Cross Daily And Follow Me
Luke-9-23-27
2011-11-01
- 21st Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
The Mystery Which Hath Been Hid From Ages And From Generations But Now Is Made Manifest To His Saints
Perfection Happening In The Midst Of The Mundane
Colossians 1-24-29
2011-11-03
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Direct Our Prayer As Incense Before Thee
Vespers-Prayer-Of-The-Entry
2011-11-06
- 22nd Wednesday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
And Whatsoever Ye Do Do It Heartily As To The Lord And Not Unto Men
Colossians 3-17-4-1
2011-11-09
- 22nd Thursday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Continue In Prayer
Let Your Speech Be Alway With Grace Seasoned With Salt
Colossians 4-2-9
2011-11-10
- 22nd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
God Forbid That I Should Glory Save In The Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ By Whom The World Is Crucified Unto Me And I Unto The World
Galatians 6-11-18
2011-11-13
- The Gadarene Demoniac. The various temptations of the demons. Without the help of God we would not survive them, and without this cardinal virtue we will never be victorious over them. (mp3 format)
Luke 8:26-39
2011-11-14
SYNOPSIS:The demons can tempt man in many ways, and the exorcism of the Gadarene demoniac shows three aspects of their warfare against man. We are shown that without God, we would be annihilated by the demons, and that their most deadly attacks are invisible to most people. If we want to be rid of the demons and their influence, there is one thing that we must do.
- 23rd Monday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
We Give Thanks To God Always For You All Making Mention Of You In Our Prayers
Pray For Others
1 Thessalonians 1-1-5
2011-11-16
- Living Water (mp3 format)
Free Among The Dead
Octoechos-Tone-6-Saturday-Vespers-Lord-I-Have-Cried
2011-11-19
- 7th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)
Woman With The Issue Of Blood
Having Spent All Her Living Who touched Me Be Of Good Comfort Thy Faith Hath Made Thee Whole
Luke 8-41-56
2011-11-20
SYNOPSIS:The healing of Jarius’daughter and the woman with the issue of blood shows two kinds of faith. Both will lead to salvation, because both are reactions to the Lord when He meets us at our level of faith. We should learn our personal lesson from these two items: The woman spent all her living on physicians before she encountered the Great Physician and was healed, and Jesus said "who touched me" Let us compare our faith to this woman, and also to Jairus who definitely had faith, of a weaker sort, but when the Lord responded to Him, he also responded (or else His daughter would not have been saved).
- 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
2011-11-25
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.
- 24th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Having Abolished In His Flesh The Enmity Even The Law Of Commandments Contained In Ordinances
Ephesians 2-14-22
2011-11-26
- Parable of the Good Samaritan: Who is my neighbor? is answered by understanding our own human nature and the effect of the incarnation upon it. (mp3 format)
Luke 10:25-37
2011-11-27
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Good Samaritan is the best explanation in Scripture answering "Who is my neighbor?". This can only be understood by understanding our own human nature and what the "Good Samaritan", Jesus Christ has done for it. Much is explained in this parable concerning the incarnation, the church, and ourselves. If we do not understand it, we will NEVER know who is our neighbor, because we will not know ourselves.
- Parable of the Harvest of the Rich Man. Two kinds of men, of ground, of rooms, of ways to talk to the soul, of goods, or treasure, of wealth. (mp3 format)
Luke 12:16-21
2011-12-04
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Harvest of the Rich man has many pairs of things which are contrasted: 2 kinds of men, of ground, of rooms, of ways to talk to the soul, of goods, or treasure, of wealth. We look at all of them.
- 26th Sunday after Pentecost (Word DOC format)
See Then That Ye Walk Circumspectly Not As Fools But As Wise Redeeming The Time
Ephesians-5-9-19
2011-12-10
Also in Format:
mp3 - Healing of the Woman with an Infirmity of Eighteen Years. All of us have hidden motivations we MUST root out. (mp3 format)
Luke 13:10-17
2011-12-11
SYNOPSIS:All of scripture is about you and me. The reaction of the Ruler of the temple to the healing of the woman with the infirmity of eighteen years on the Sabbath day *exposes* us. The man was hateful and blind because of hidden motivations and passions. Let us look at ourselves and see if we have any of these hidden cockroaches that scurry away from the light so that we are not aware of them: anger, jealousy, ambition, pride, and a host of others. We must work intensely to have the light of Christ shine on our hidden motivations or else we will never be healed.
- 5th Matins Gospel (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 05, The road to Emmaus
Did Not Our Heart Burn Within Us
Luke 24:12-35
2011-12-17
- 11th Sunday of Luke (mp3 format)
Healing Of The Ten Lepers
Jesus Prayer And Thanksgiving
Luke 17-12-19
2011-12-18
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Saint Nicholas The Wonderworker
Holy Art Thou O God And Thou Restest In The Saints
2011-12-19
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
Why Be Good
Colossians 3-4-11
2011-12-24
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers
The Great Supper Compel Them To Come In
Luke 14-16-24
2011-12-25
- The First Great Catch of Fish Compared with the Second - Luke 5:1-11 & John 21:1-14 (mp3 format)
Luke 5:1-11
2011-2011-10-09
SYNOPSIS:The first great catch of fish, in Luke 5:1-11, occurred at the very beginning of the ministry of Jesus with His apostles. It must be read in conjunction with the second great fish of 153 fishes, which occurred after the resurrection, and was His last earthly meal with His apostles (John 21:1-14). There are many beautiful morsels here! After sampling this beautiful smorgasbord, we must not miss the most important aspect of this story: 1. the command to "let down the nets" applies to everyone, and 2. after the disciples saw the power of the Lord, they left all and followed Him. If we do not learn these two things from these stories, we have learned nothing.
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (HTML format)
St Gregory The Theologian (nazianzen)
2011-the-wonder-of-the-incarnation
Also in Format:
Word DOC SYNOPSIS:Read this homily of St Gregory the Theologian (Nazianzen) carefully! It is a materpiece of Christological theology and rhetoric, and while accurately declaring important dogmas, it also captures the wonder of the incarnation. We MUST feel this wonder if we are true Christians. - Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
1 4
2012-01-05
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Exegesis Of Vespers Of Nativity Parables
4 8
2012-01-06
- Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Meaning Of Nativity
Abba Father They Departed Into Their Country Another Way
Galations 4-4-7-Matthew 2-1-12
2012-01-07
- The beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and baptism, and the end, where we will have fought the good fight and finished the course. Readings for the Sunday before Theophany explained. (mp3 format)
Mark 1:1-8 2Timothy 4:5-8
2012-01-15
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday before Theophany (the baptism of Jesus Christ), we read from Mark about the "beginning of the Gospel of Jesus Christ" and about the baptism of John, which is a vivid type of Christian Baptism. The entire selection, form Mark 1:1-8 us explained, and especially how John&'s baptism (of repentance) is different (and the same) as Christian baptism. It is also appropriate on this day to think about the eventual fruit of baptism, which is human perfection and union with God, and the passage of 2Timothy 4:5-8 presents us with a beautiful "after" picture. This is our destiny, if we accept baptism and work to attain it.
- Theophany (Baptism of the Lord) (mp3 format)
Synaxarion For Theophany
2012-01-18
- What does baptism do for us and what MUST we do after baptism? The moral dogma of baptism. (mp3 format)
That He Might Redeem Us From All Iniquity And Purify Unto Himself A Peculiar People Zealous Of Good Works
Titus 2:11-14: 3:4-7
2012-01-19
SYNOPSIS:The epistle for Theophany, the Baptism of the Lord, describes for us the purpose of baptism, and especially its "moral dogma". What is this? Most people know that Christianity rests upon various dogmas about God, such as that God is a Trinity of persons, and that the Son of God, Jesus Christ is God and man, but many do not know as well our moral dogmas. The Epistle to Titus describes both the dogma what Christian baptism does. and also the moral dogma concerning it - what we must do. If we do not understnad and embrace this dogma we cannot be saved.
- The purpose of the church, and of baptism. (mp3 format)
Ephesians 4:7-13
2012-01-21
SYNOPSIS:The selection read on the Sunday after Theophany (Ephesians 4:7-13) is critical to understand in detail. It contains the important dogmas abuot Christ&'s descent into Hell, and the rarely understood dogma whoch I will express as a question: "What is the purpose of the church?" It is critical to understand the purpose if our life, and of the church, and how baptism affects both. The exegesis of this Epistle explains this. This is a very important 9 minutes for a Christian to understand.
- How to answer temptations and what happens after baptism. (mp3 format)
Saturday & Sunday after Theophany
Matthew 4:1-11, Matthew 4:12-17
2012-01-22
SYNOPSIS:The history of what Jesus did after His baptism is critical for us to understand. He set the example, both by accepting baptism and showing us what we MUST do after baptism. Let&' look in detail at how to encounter temptation, which will surely come to us. We must be ready.
- 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. (mp3 format)
What does by "all acceptation" *really* mean?
1 Timothy 1:15-17
2012-01-28
- Sunday of Zacchaeus. The process of repentance. (mp3 format)
Luke 19:1-10
2012-01-29
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.
- The simple message of the parable of the Publican and Pharisee and the Jesus Prayer. (mp3 format)
Luke 18:10-14
2012-02-05
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.
- "Meat commendeth us not to God" exegesis of epistle reading for Meatfare Sunday. (mp3 format)
1 Corinthians 8:8-9:2
2012-02-08
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.
- 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
2012-02-09
SYNOPSIS:Exposition of 1 John 1:8-2:6.
- The Parable of the Prodigal Son teaches us 2 very important things in the process of repentance. (mp3 format)
Luke 12:11-32
2012-02-12
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!
- "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
2012-02-16
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.
- 1st Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Zacchaeus
Zacchaeus Make Haste And Come Down For To Day I Must Abide At Thy House
2012-02-17
- 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
2012-02-19
Also in Format:
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".- 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
2012-02-23
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."
- "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
2012-02-25
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
2012-02-26
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".
- The Hymns of the Sunday of Orthodoxy proclaim the restoration of the ikons and their most important teaching - the Incarnation with all its implications, and the reason why we fast. (mp3 format)
Vespers And Matins Hymns For The Sunday Of Orthodoxy
2012-03-04
SYNOPSIS:The hymns for the Sunday of Orthodoxy, which proclaim the restoration of the icons, are a primer in Christology. Their most important teaching is explained, using examples from the services. Also the purpose of fasting, from a matins hymn, is clearly explained, and the importance of the hymnology of the church and how it teaches us true theology is discussed. Allthe following hymns are mentioned:Thou who art uncircumscribed, O Master, in Thy divine nature, / wast pleased in the last times to take flesh and be circumscribed; / and in assuming flesh, / Thou hast also taken on Thyself all its distinctive properties. / Therefore we depict the likeness of Thine outward form, / venerating it with an honor that is relative. / So we are exalted to the love of Thee, / and following the holy traditions handed down by the apostles // from Thine icon we receive the grace of healing. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Vespers, Lord I have cried)
We venerate Thy holy icon, loving Lord, / asking Thee to pardon our transgressions, Christ our God. / For Thou of Thine own will wast pleased in the flesh to ascend upon the Cross, / so to deliver from the bondage of the enemy those whom Thou hast fashioned. / Therefore in thanksgiving we cry aloud to Thee: // Thou hast filled all things with joy, our Savior, when Thou hast come to save the world. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Troparion, Tone II)
Depicting Thy divine form in ikons, O Christ, we openly proclaim Thy Nativity, Thine ineffable miracles and Thy voluntary Crucifixion. So the devils are driven out in fear and the heretics, their fellow workers, lament in shame and sorrow. (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Sessional Hymn)
Moses, in the season of abstinence, received the law and proclaimed it to the people. Elijah by fasting closed the heavens; and the three children of Abraham through fasting overcame the lawless tyrant. Count us worthy, O Christ, through fasting to attain the Feast of the Resurrection, as we cry aloud: "Holy God, Holy and Strong, Holy and Immortal, have mercy on us!" (Sunday of Orthodoxy, Matins, Praises)
- The Triumph of Orthodoxy must occur in the heart, and will be because of doing simple things, as the Gospel teaches today. (mp3 format)
Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?
Come and see!
John 1:43-51
2012-03-05
SYNOPSIS:Orthodoxy and life is very deep and complex, but the essence of Christian life is simple. The Gospel today teaches us a simple way, and if we obey the simple apostolic command, we will not be confounded. If we think too much, we will always be confused. We look at the calling of Nathaniel and the simple way he was told to approach his doubts; this applies to EVERY doubt and difficulty in our life. "Come and see!" is the only door to the triumph of Orthodoxy, that is, the fullness of the indwelling of God, in our hearts.
- Saint Gregory Palamas & the Gospel: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." teach that Christianity is to become perefect. Not many believe this. How are we to pursue perfection? (mp3 format)
John 10:9-16
2012-03-11
SYNOPSIS:This is an important discussion, too wonderful to believe for most Christians, but absolutely true, and the main teaching of St Gregory Palamas: To be Christian is to become perfect. The Gospel for St. Gregory teaches this in a hidden way, when it says: "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture". Let us look in wonder at his teaching, the Gospel John 10:9-16, and the Matins Theotokion: "Adam&'s nature was made Godlike O Virgin, when without undergoing change, God took flesh within thy womb, and we who were deceived of old by the hope of becoming Gods, have been set free from the ancient condemnation", and how we are to pursue perfection.
- The Healing of the Paralytic borne of four teaches us about sin, sickness, saving faith and that we must help our brother. (mp3 format)
Mark 2:1-12
2012-03-12
SYNOPSIS:Why do we speak of the Paralytic borne of four during Great Lent? It is because we must learn that we are paralytics because of sin, and the relationship of sin to sickeness, physical and mental. We must also learn what saving faith is and that we must help out our brother.
- "Seeing then that we have a great high priest..." The reason this epistle, which does not mention the cross is read on the Sunday of the Cross. (mp3 format)
Epistle for Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Hebrews 4:14-5:6
2012-03-17
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Exaltation of the Cross never mentions the cross. There are many epistles that mention the cross; why was this one chosen?
- What is the way of the cross, and what does the Lord mean when He tells us to deny ourselves? What are the answers to the questions? (mp3 format)
Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Mark 8:34-9:1
2012-03-18
SYNOPSIS:The entire Gospel is important, but some passages are absolutely critical to understand and follow. This is one of them. It explains what the way of the cross is, and teaches a principle that we must use literally every moment of our lives - to learn to always make a good "exchange". We explain what the Lord means when He commands us to "deny" ourselves, and what the answers to His questions: "What shall it profit a man..." and "What shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" must be. These are not rhetorical questions - you must answer them.
- 4th Sunday of Great Lent (HTML format)
Exorcism Of The Lunatic Son
If Thou Canst Believe All Things Are Possible To Him That Believeth
Mark 9-17-31
2012-03-25
Also in Format:
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mp3 - 4th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Matthew 8:5-13
2012-03-30
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.
- 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
2012-03-31
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
2012-04-01
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.
- 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
2012-04-08
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)
- 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
2012-04-10
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 Friday (mp3 format)
Lamentation Matins Holy Friday
Prophesy Of The Dry Bones
Ezekiel 37-1-14
2012-04-14
- Bright Week Do's and Dont's (mp3 format)
Agape Vespers
2012-04-15
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.
- Introduction to the Sunday Matins Resurrectional Gospels. Believing in the Resurrection is hard. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 01
Matthew 28-16-20
2012-04-21
- 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
2012-04-22
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.
- 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
2012-04-26
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!
- Matins Gospel 3 - No man witnessed the resurrection, and the chronology of the day of the resurrection. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 03
Mark 16:9-20
2012-04-28
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the 3rd Matins Gospel, Mark 16:9-20, and chronology of the day of the resurrection. The most important points are the spiritual ones - the resurrection was not witnessed by anyone. What does that mean? A lot!
- "Having become bold" - What made Joseph, Nicodemus and the Myrhhbearers bold? (HTML format)
Mark 15:43-16:8
2012-04-29
Also in Format:
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mp3 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.- 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
2012-05-05
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. (Word DOC format)
I have no man!
John 5:1-15
2012-05-06
Also in Format:
mp3 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.- She left her waterpot! The extreme humility and faith of the Samaritan Woman. (mp3 format)
The Samaritan Woman
John 4:5-42
2012-05-13
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.
- Comments on a billboard message: "Go to sleep giggling!" (mp3 format)
2012-05-16
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".
- "The sheep follow him for they know his voice." How? (mp3 format)
Fifth Thursday after Pascha
John 9:39-10:9
2012-05-17
- 7th Sunday of Pascha (mp3 format)
Fathers First Ecumenical Council
That They May Be One
John 17-1-13
2012-05-27
- Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
I Will Give You A New Heart And Put A New Spirit Within You
Learning To Discern Between The Old And New Ways
Acts 21-11, Ezekiel 36-24-28 (1)
2012-06-03
SYNOPSIS:The readings for Divine Liturgy on Pentecost give the story of Pentecost and our Lord '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 (mp3 format)
Sunday Of All Saints
Matthew 10:32-33, 37-38: 19:27-30 Hebrews 11:33-12:2
2012-06-10
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 (mp3 format)
Follow Me And I Will Make You Fishers Of Men
Matthew 4-18-23-Matthew 4-25-5-12
2012-06-17
- 3rd Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Matthew 6:22-33
2012-06-24
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 (mp3 format)
Romans 6:18-23
2012-07-01
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?
- Misc (mp3 format)
2012-07-07
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!
- 5th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
Gergesenes Demoniac
What Have We To Do With Thee Jesus Thou Son Of God
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2012-07-08
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 (mp3 format)
Let Love Be Without Dissimulation
A Reason For All The Rules
Romans 12:6-14
2012-07-14
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.".
- "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
2012-07-21
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
2012-07-22
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.
- "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
2012-07-29
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.
- Jesus walks on the water and the disciples are afraid. WHY? (mp3 format)
Matthew 14:22-34
2012-08-05
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.
- 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
2012-08-11
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
2012-08-12
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.
- "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
2012-08-16
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!
- Exegesis of Vespers readings on Transfiguration: typology and moral instruction. (mp3 format)
Exodus 24:12-18 : Exodus 33:11-23: 34:4-6,8 : 1 Kings 19:3-9,11-13,15-16
2012-08-18
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of the Vespers readings (parables, paremia) for the Feast of the Transfiguration, with emphasis on typology, especially comparing the Theophanies Moses and Elijah experienced to the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor, and the significant moral instruction these events give us, when viewed in a Christian light.
- Transfiguration: Welcome to the future and examples of how to attain it in the present. (mp3 format)
2012-08-19
- Dormition: Children's sermon (mp3 format)
2012-08-28
SYNOPSIS:A homily/talk with the children about Dormition.
- Holy Prophet Samuel: Behold, here am I. Speak, for thy servant hears. (mp3 format)
Prophet Samuel
2012-09-01
SYNOPSIS:The Holy Prophet Samuel teaches us how to approach EVERYTHING in life. The manner of the birth and calling of Samuel is also mentioned.
- Parable of the Vineyard: the outer (Jewish) and inner (Christian) meanings and symbolism: we must bear fruit! (mp3 format)
Matthew 21:33-42
2012-09-02
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!
- Great Martyr Phanurios of Rhodes. (mp3 format)
Great Martyr Phanurios Of Rhodes
2012-09-08
SYNOPSIS:Talk on Great Martyr Phanutios of Rhodes, including details about his icon, his known ability to help people find things, and his request that people pray for the soul of his sinful mother, and phanuropita. There is also a lesson to learn in how and when Holy Phanurios was revealled to the world - this has DIRECT application to our lives.
- 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
2012-09-09
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.
- "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
2012-09-15
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
2012-09-16
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
God Forbid That I Should Glory Save In The Cross Of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Sunday Before Exaltation Of The Cross
Galations 6:11-18
2012-09-22
- 16th Sunday of Pentecost (mp3 format)
Parable Of The Talents
Bearing Fruit Is Required
Matthew 25:14-30
2012-09-23
- Exaltation of the Cross (mp3 format)
For The Preaching Of The Cross Is To Them That Perish Foolishness But Unto Us Which Are Saved It Is The Power Of God
1 Corinthians 1-18-24
2012-09-27
- "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me" - the Cross and the REMEMBRANCE OF DEATH, which is the ONLY way of life. (mp3 format)
Galatians 2:16-20 Mark 8:34-9:1
2012-09-30
SYNOPSIS:We begin with an admonition from the Apostle Paul, in the selection read on the 17th Sunday after Pentecost: "Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." This is the what, but most of a pastor's life is spent explaining the how, which the readings for the Sunday after the Exaltation of the Precious cross do very well. The Epistle ends with the stirring words " I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me...", and the Gospel tells us that "Whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it ". These describe an attitude, a way of living. Without this attitude, we will not be able to make our way and be "perfecting holiness". One way to explain this attitude is to elucidate the uniquely ascetic and Orthodox understanding of the "remembrance of death"; this is CRITICAL stuff! We must understand this way of life, the ONLY way of life, which starts with baptism and the cross, and must continue in the way of the cross.
- "Launch out into the deep" - the first great catch of fish teaches about the Jesus prayer! (mp3 format)
Luke 5:1-11
2012-10-07
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"?
- Why does a priest wear black. Joyful mourning, and the remembrance of death. (mp3 format)
2012-10-18
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"
- Parable! of the Resurrection of the Son of the Widow of Nain. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16
2012-10-21
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!
- "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
2012-10-25
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!
- "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
2012-10-27
Also in Format:
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? - "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
2012-10-28
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?
- The Psalter (Word DOC format)
Thou Hast Enjoined Thy Commandments That We Should Keep Them Most Diligently
Psalm 118-04
2012-11-17
- 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
2012-11-18
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.
- "Would that my ways were directed to keep Thy statutes." How to "wish" for something. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:05
2012-11-24
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?
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
Part 01
2012-11-26
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
Part 02
2012-11-27
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
- The Holy Orthodox Faith; Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender (mp3 format)
The Holy Orthodox Faith Finding True Freedom Through Slavery And Total Victory Through Surrender
Part 03
2012-11-28
SYNOPSIS:Three part series by Archimandrite Demterios Carellas, Nov 26-28, 2012 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, McKinney Texas.
FILES: 138 HTML files, 142 HTML files, 6 Adobe PDF files, 19 RTF files, 152 Word DOC files, 611 mp3 files, 1 Русская версия PDF files, 1 Русская версия RTF files, 1 link files
- "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance." The Parable of the unjust steward explains how to fulfil this commandment. (mp3 format)
Holy Apostle And Evangelist Matthew
Parable Of The Unjust Steward
Matthew 9:9-13, Luke 16:1-9
2012-11-29
SYNOPSIS:The Gospels read today, for the Evangelist Matthew & the Parable of the unjust steward, are perfectly compatible, and the parable gives us some insight into how we must fulfill the solemn commandment of our Lord, given after the calling of the Evangelist. In the exegesis of these passages, several anecdotes from Archimandrite Demetrius Carellas' talks, which were included the night before, are mentioned, because we must be a zealous in taming our will as the unjust steward was in taking care of himself, in order to fulfill the commandment: "Go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy and not sacrifice.' For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance."
- "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
2012-12-02
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.
- 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
2012-12-09
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.
- "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
2012-12-15
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.
- "Thy faith hath made thee whole" understanding the faith of the leper who was healed. (mp3 format)
Luke 18:18-27
2012-12-23
SYNOPSIS:The response of gratitude of the one leper of the ten who were healed by Jesus prompted our Lord to say to him " thy faith hath made thee whole." This common expression of Jesus must be investigated closely, for in each instance, different aspects of faith are revealed. This Samaritan's faith was expressed in two ways, that he prayed for mercy and he gave thanks for his great gift. Regarding his prayer, we have a detailed interlude to talk about the Jesus prayer and how we should pray it, including praying it for others. Then we link the prayer to thanksgiving, for without the latter, the former withers. As we become aware of how much God's mercy surrounds us and helps us. we thank Him, and seek his mercy even more, for ourselves and others. Our heart becomes softer, and feels the needs of others - our heart becomes like that of Jesus. These two things, seeking God's mercy and thanking him for everything - are required for salvation.
- "Wherewithal shall a young man correct his way? By keeping Thy words." (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:09
2012-12-29
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.
- Two Sundays before the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Go Out Into The Highways And Hedges And Compel Them To Come In That My House May Be Filled
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 14-16-24
2012-12-30
- 1st Sunday after the Nativity of Jesus Christ (mp3 format)
Regular Everyday Christianity And Knowing The Will Of God
Flight Into Egypt
Matthew 2-13-23
2013-01-13
- "Every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ." Do not be afraid to struggle for perfection! (mp3 format)
Sunday After Theophany
Ephesians 4-7-13
2013-01-20
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle for the Sunday after Theophany, although it does not mention the word, is all about baptism. St Paul teaches us what our Lord's baptism did for us, and its end result - perfection. We look at this passage in detail, with its hopeful and intricate theology, which urges us to not be afraid to struggle for perfection!
- "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
2013-01-27
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
2013-02-02
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.
- 28th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
2013-02-03
- "Blessed art Thou, O Lord, teach me Thy statutes" Learn the statutes by learning (living) the resurrection. (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:12
2013-02-09
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.
- What makes a martyr? It is always that they are being conformed to the image of the son of God! Romans 8:28-39 teaches us how to *be* martyrs DAILY. (mp3 format)
Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia
Romans 8:28-39
2013-02-10
SYNOPSIS:The Epistle reading for the Holy New Martyrs and Confessors of Russia, Romans 8:28-39, gives us the common thread that connects all martyrs. Millions in Russia were martyred, but many more millions gave up their faith with nary a struggle. The Martyrs suffered in countless ways, but were united in that that all were living in such a way to be "conformed to the image of the Son of God" Martyrdom is not a discrete event, it is a daily process, which ALL Christians must participate in gladly.
- "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
2013-02-16
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.
- "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
2013-02-23
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
2013-02-24
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***."
- 3rd Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
The Prodigal Son
The Elder Son
Luke 12-11-32
2013-03-02
- "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
2013-03-03
- Misc (mp3 format)
Ordinary Is Made Extraordinary
2013-03-09
- "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
2013-03-10
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"
- "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
2013-03-16
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.
- 5th Sunday before Great Lent (mp3 format)
Sunday Of Forgiveness
Fasting And Forgiving
Matthew 6:14-21
2013-03-17
- Feasts of the Saints (mp3 format)
Forty Martyrs Of Sebaste
Matthew 20-1-16
2013-03-20
- 1st Sunday of Great Lent (mp3 format)
Can There Any Good Thing Come Out Of Nazareth
Come And See
John 1-43-51
2013-03-24
- "On thy commandments will I ponder, and I will understand thy ways" Psalm 118:15. How does one "ponder"? (mp3 format)
Psalm 118:15
2013-03-30
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.
- The healing of the paralytic borne of four; what is the press and how do we defeat it? (mp3 format)
Mark 2:1-12
2013-03-31
SYNOPSIS:In the healing of the paralytic borne of four, the helpers of the paralytic could not reach Jesus because of the press (the crowd), and with great effort and ingenuity, found a way to present their friend before Jesus by making a hole in the roof. The "press" has deep theological meaning. It can be described by several words starting with "P": PASSIONS, PRIORITIES, PEOPLE, our PAST and PATTERNS in our life. We look at each of these, with much practical advice about defeating them.
- The Greatest miracle in the life of St Mary of Egypt. (mp3 format)
2013-04-20
SYNOPSIS:The life of St Mary of Egypt is filled with amazing miracles. Which is the greatest? Without s doubt, it is one that most will not mention. Let us look at the first 17 years of her repentance and learn of the mercy of God. We must apply this lesson to our own repentance.
- "Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little" - Relationship between repentance, gratitude, and action. (mp3 format)
The life of St Mary of Egypt and the Gospel for female martyrs.
Luke 7:36-50
2013-04-21
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel read for St Mary of Egypt is the same as we read for female martyrs - the sinful woman who washed the feet of Jesus. This Gospel and the life of St Mary teach us the relationship between repentance, gratitude and action. Without the latter two, there is NO repentance.
- The raising of Lazarus and our sins. (mp3 format)
Lazarus Saturday
2013-04-27
SYNOPSIS:The raising of Lazarus has many important things in it, but none is as important as the application of this reality to our own lives. We look at how the church thinks about the raising of Lazarus and our sins and passions all in the same breath. The dialogue between Martha and Jesus should look familiar to us - we think this way too! Let us learn to live powerfully, fully understanding such hymns as: "Thou hast raised Lazarus on the fourth day, though his corpse already stank. Raise me up, O Christ, for I am dead in sin and lie in the pit and the dark shadow of death; deliver me and save me in Thy compassion." "O Master, Thou hast raised a dead man bound in grave clothes, a corpse that already stank. I am held fast in the bonds of sin; raise me up and I shall sing: O God of our fathers, blessed art Thou."
- The Entry into Jerusalem teaches how to be like a child and be saved. (mp3 format)
Palm Sunday
Matthew 21:1-11,15-17
2013-04-28
SYNOPSIS:During the entry into Jerusalem, there was a marked contrast: the children praised Jesus and proclaimed Him as God with great joy, but the leaders were "sore displeased". Why were they so indignant? It was because of their sins and passions, especially their anger and pride. They teach us how to be like children and have joy, if we will listen. It is clear that any unrepented of sin makes us like the leaders, incapable of accepting the Lord into our Jerusalem - our soul, and feeling joy. Let us learn how to be like children by observing their behavior
- Homily by Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus, read every year after Holy Saturday Matins, in our parish. (mp3 format)
Holy Saturday Matins
2013-05-04
SYNOPSIS:A homily by Saint Epiphanius of Cyprus on the burial of the Divine Body of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Joseph of Arimathea, and on the descent of the Lord into Hades which, after His saving Passion, wonderously ensued on the Holy and great SaturdayA homily on the burial of the Divine Body of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, on Joseph of Arimathea, and on the descent of the Lord into Hades which, after His saving Passion, wondrously ensued on the Holy and great Saturday. Read from the Lamentations of Matins, pub by Holy Transfiguration Monastery, Boston MA
- Thomas is just like us in at least one way; it must be in two ways if we are to be saved. (mp3 format)
Thomas Sunday
John 20:19-31
2013-05-12
SYNOPSIS:The Apostle Thomas is a perfect example of how we are, deep inside. We have doubts, problems, unresolved issues. We must follow his example to resolve all these problems. We also talk about the closing of the doors in the altar on Bright Saturday night, and what it means. It is VERY related to the story of Thomas, which must become our story if we are to be saved.
- Why did the Myrhhbearers go to the tomb to annoint a dead man? Because of the ache for God in their heart. (mp3 format)
The Holy Myrhhbearing Women and Joseph and Nicodemus.
Mark 15:43-16:8
2013-05-19
SYNOPSIS:First I discuss the feeling that temporal feast of Pascha is passing and I did not "get enough" out of it. I was not aware enougph that there was holiness all around me and I did not catch it, apprehend it. This is related to not having enbough of the virtue on full displkay in the explolites of the Myrhbearers and Joseph and Nicodemus. they had an ache for God in their hearts, and this ache made them give their best to god, even though they had many obstacles, such as the stone, the soldiers, the murderous Jewish leaders, and above all, that they believed that their Messiah was dead. They overcame their obstacles because of the ache in their heart. We have many obnstacles too; the only way that they will be overcome is if you cultivate the ache for God in your heart.
- Exegesis of the Gospel of the Healing of the Paralytic by the sheep's pool (mp3 format)
Paralytic By The Sheeps Pool
Exegesis
John 5:1-15
2013-05-26
SYNOPSIS:The Scripture has two basic meanings, the apparent meaning, and the spiritual meaning. We need to understand the former well in order to be fully taught the spiritual meaning of Scripture. The apparent meaning involves the basic story, context, symbolism, typology and history. We must understand this well, and this takes some work and repetition, just as one must know vocabulary and syntax well to understand fine poetry. The apparent meaning rarely is the subject of a sermon in church, because the pastor is trying to teach important spiritual truths, but on this occasion, before matins, we will look at the symbolism, typology and other aspects of the apparent meaning of the story of the healing of the Paralytic by sheep's pool.
- A feastday for all us Samaritans. Do you hear the conversation? Sunday of the Samaritan Woman, John 4:5-42 (mp3 format)
John 4:5-42
2013-06-03
SYNOPSIS:The conversation and conversion of the Samaritan woman by the well, recorded only in John, is the conversation of Christ with the soul. This is good news for us, as the future Equal to the Apostles Photini (Svetlana) was not a good woman - she had many sins - and we are not good either, however, she listened to the Lord, even as He sternly corrected her false beliefs and immoral lifestyle. The same conversation is happening to us, every day. Are you listening? Do you know how to listen? St Photini teaches us.
- "Why stand ye gazing up into heaven?" When God gives grace, we must act upon it. (mp3 format)
Ascension
Acts 1:1-12
2013-06-15
SYNOPSIS:We need to understand the 3 main dogmas taught in the Ascension - this is basic biblical literacy. After this, we must apply these dogmas to our daily lives. This is the command given to the apostles and to us, which is implicit in the question the angels asked them: "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven?" God gives us grace to be acted upon.
- "That they may be one as we are" & "That they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves" - salvation defined as the reintegration of the powers of the soul. (mp3 format)
7th Sunday of Pascha, Holy Fathers of the first Ecumenical council
John 17:1-13
2013-06-16
SYNOPSIS:First, a little bit of basic literacy about the First Ecumenical council and Jesus' emphatic expressions of unity and equality with His Father. We then emphasize how Jesus' unity with the Father is the model for our salvation - the powers of the soul - the appetitive, knowledge and irascible - are integrated in the soul in perfect unity with each other, as God is one with Himself. This is important stuff - it is salvation defined in a very deep and mystical way, and you should be aware of it happening in you
- 7th Thursday after pascha (mp3 format)
John 16-23-33
2013-06-20
- "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink" How to cultivate thirst for the Holy Spirit, given on Pentecost. (mp3 format)
John 7:37-52,8:12
2013-06-23
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel reading for Pentecost includes: "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink" and "I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." We must *learn* to thirst for the Holy Spirit and for light. This is not innate in our sinful condition. How do we learn to thirst? We must combine (and search for) knowledge about our condition and its weaknesses, and effort, borne of faith, to walk in the light. This does not just happen, as we be-bop through life. May God help us to thirst for Him, may we dedicate ourselves to learning ever more to thirst for Him.
- "Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." The calling of the Apostles teaches us that everything is spiritual. (mp3 format)
Matthew 4:18-23
2013-07-07
SYNOPSIS:The calling of the Apostles Peter and Andrew and James and John occurs relatively early in the Gospel of Matthew. We "break" a few homiletic rules to muse about this Gospel selection just as we would when reading it prayerfully at home. The key point in all this is that everything in life is spiritual, and we must learn to see this. We illustrate this with mentioning of nets, and that the Lord chose fishermen to follow Him. There is much more here, because unlike in a sermon when we usually try to hone in on one point, we gather many drops of wisdom when reading Scripture.
- "The light of the body is the eye." Unbridled desire always causes anxity. (mp3 format)
Matthew 6:22-33
2013-07-14
SYNOPSIS:There is always a subtext to Jesus' commands to us. In the case of His command to "Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on", this command is preceded by a discussion about desire, in which He tells us "The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light." and He warns us that we cannot serve God and mammon. This juxtaposition of teaching about desire and the commandment to not be anxious should cause a "Eureka!" moment for us - unbridled desire ALWAYS leads to anxiety. We look at this in detail .
- "Did not our heart burn within us?" Here is the Christian life explained. What does it mean to have the heart burn? (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 05, The Road to Emmaus
Luke 24:12-35
2013-07-27
SYNOPSIS:Matins Gospel five, The Road to Emmaus, in Luke, is an explanation of the Christian life of anyone. We labor with ignorance and negative thoughts among our greatest adversaries, but in the true Christian, the heart is always burning. What does this mean? How do we continue to have our heart burn, and why?
- "What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God?" A question we must continually ask. Here is the answer. (mp3 format)
Matthew 8:28-9:1
2013-07-28
SYNOPSIS:What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? This question must be answered by everyone, ALL the time! Here is the answer. When we examine why the people of the Gadarenes rejected Jesus, and why we sin, in every case, it is because we substitute a false joy for the joy that Jesus prayers that we have: That they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
- "Peace be unto you." "Then opened He their understanding that they might understand the scriptures." (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 06
Luke 24-36-53
2013-08-03
- 6th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
They Brought To Him A Man Sick Of The Palsy
Bear Ye One Anothers Burdens And So Fulfil The Law Of Christ
Matthew 9-1-8
2013-08-04
- Matins Gospel 7: "For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead." Why did they not know? It is the same reason we do not know. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 07
John 20:1-10
2013-08-10
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Matins Gospel 7, John 20:1-10, with emphasis on what can teach the soul. We do not care about all the historical details as much as we care about how our souls can be profited by noting the bravery and humility of Mary Magdalene, about judgment of others, and why it would be stated concerning pious men who were very conversant with the Scriptures, that: "For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead."
- "According to your faith be it unto you." "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves." Faith explained. (mp3 format)
Romans 15:1-7 Matthew 9:27-35
2013-08-11
SYNOPSIS:In the healing of the two blind men Jesus exclaimed: "According to your faith be it unto you". This is the case for everyone; God answers our prayers and heals us according to our faith. That begs the question: what is faith? The Epistle for today explains the matter. We have faith if we live as and become like Christ, Who only thought of others. If we are in any way self-centered, we do not have true faith. The Apostle Paul explains that "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.".
- "Woman, why weepest thou .. Jesus saith unto her, Mary" Matins Gospel 8 tells us that Jesus is always calling our name; when we recognize Him, we stop weeping. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 08
John 20:11-18
2013-08-17
SYNOPSIS:In Matins Gospel 8, John 10:11-18, Mary Magdalene is at the tomb weeping, and Christ appears and asks her "Woman, why weepest thou?" We must answer ALL questions in Scripture - this question is also for us. What will you answer and how will your weeping be stopped? In the Gospel, as in life, Mary stopped weeping when she recognized Jesus, when he called her "Mary" This Gospel is our life in microcosm. We weep because we do not see Christ, but He is always calling our name and right by us; when we recognize him, we no longer weep.
- The Feeding of the five thousand: Give ye them to eat: happiness is only possible if we do not think of ourselves. (mp3 format)
Matthew 14:14-22
2013-08-18
SYNOPSIS:The Feeding of the 5000 is not only a historical event, and a miracle; it is a command to each of us. If we do not follow this command we will never be happy. the entire story can be summarized by:" This is a desert place ... Give ye then to eat... end they took up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full" We are often unhappy because of our circumstances. We define happiness as good things that happen to us, but the Lord shows us not only a better way, but the only way: "Give ye them to eat" The results of following this command are mystically shown by the abundance of leftovers. Let us learn to head this command.
- Pride is the problem, it is why we do not see things as they are. The only solution is to be the servant of others. (mp3 format)
Matthew 20:17-28
2013-08-22
SYNOPSIS:The Lord plainly told his disciples about his upcoming crucifixion. They did not understand His plain words. Why. This is a very important question, and the Gospel today answers it. Immediately after plainly for the umpteenth time telling his misunderstanding disciples about His upcoming passion, the mother of James and John came with an absurd and prideful request, and the other disciples, whose pride was tweaked, became angry. thje Lord used this as a "teachable moment," and uttered the famous and important words: " whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: 28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many." The juxtaposition of these 3 things is important. The Apostles did not understand the Lord's clear prophesies concerning Himself because their pride blinded them, and diminished their intelligence. So it is with us. Much of the reality of life, things we should know, passes by us because our pride blinds us to truth. The only path to wisdom and knowledge is humility and the golden path to humility is serving others, with the proper attitude of a servant.
- "Jesus saith unto them, Peace be unto you." "Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." The two are related! (mp3 format)
Matinal Gospel 9
John 20:19-31
2013-08-24
SYNOPSIS:The 9th Matinal Gospel, John 20:19-31, is about a lot of things, but since it has the story of the doubt of Thomas, it seems that the critically important things before this story get neglected in homilies. We talk about them here, especially the incredible promise (and command!) that we will be like God, and do the things of God. This is inherent in the command and promise of Jesus: "Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." There are many other things of God that have been delegated to man and we must know them. Also, the first words Jesus spoke to the gathered disciples on the day of the resurrection were "Peace be unto you". this is VERY significant, and very much related to the things of God that we are ordered to do.
- "We are labourers together with God" & "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? " The privilege & responsibilty of being a Christian. (mp3 format)
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
2013-08-25
SYNOPSIS:To be a Christian is to do Godlike things, to labor together with God. We discuss the great privilege and responsibility of the Christian, elucidated by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:9-17; essentially, God expects the Christian to act like God!
- "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find." What is the right side? Matinal Gospel 10 (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 10
John 21:1-14
2013-08-31
SYNOPSIS:The 10th Matinal Gospel is the story about the Apostles fishing, and Christ encountering them on the shore. He told them: "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. " In our minimalist, benighted and politically correct age, we must understand clearly what the "right side" is. There are other nuances to this first half of this story that are very important to our life, as they apply directly to the way we grow and change.
- God requires a small amount of belief and He will magnify it. You can do this! " If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain..." (mp3 format)
Matthew 17:14-23
2013-09-01
SYNOPSIS:The disciples were massively successful when they went out two by two, and then the encountered a boy from who they could not cast out a demon. This perplexed and worried them, and they asked the Lord "Why could not we cast him out?" The answer, recorded precisely because it applies to all of us, is it was because of their unbelief. how does belief vs. unbelief manifest in a Christian who encounters a problem? We do not have far to go, the Lord promised that we only need a little belief, and He will magnify it: "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain..." Let us talk about how to do this small thing. You can do this.
- "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death." How to know which is which and how to cultivate godly sorrow. (mp3 format)
2 Corinthians 7:1-10
2013-09-12
SYNOPSIS:The world is filled with sorrow, and all of it leads to death. Let us learn what Godly sorrow is, and how to cultivate it.
- "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." Voluntary and involuntary submission. Matins Gospel 1. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 01
Matthew 28:16-20
2013-09-14
SYNOPSIS:The 1st Matinal Gospel has an incredible statement if it is understand according to its deep spiritual meaning: "All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth." This is more than it seems to be! We examine involuntary submission, which applies to all men, and voluntary submission, which is only possible because of the incarnation and resurrection.
- "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." "This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church." Sunday of Marriage, Family & Loyalty, 2013 (mp3 format)
Genesis 2:24 Ephesians 5:32
2013-09-16
SYNOPSIS:The "Sunday of Marriage, Family and Loyalty" is celebrated every year in September in the Russian Orthodox church. This homily attempts to explain the unexplainable - the Mystery of Marriage and the Church. We discuss how we can learn to give our will to another, and thus become like Christ. We cannot be saved unless we learn to give our will to another, and marriage is among the best estates in life to learn this.
- "And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid" Why were brave people afraid, and other important details in the 2nd Sunday Matinal Gospel. (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 02
Mark 16:1-8
2013-09-21
SYNOPSIS:The Sunday Matinal Gospels are particularly rich in details. In the second Gospel, Mark 16:1-8, we have several important details; they can teach us many things about ourselves and our Christian life. for instance, why were brave people afraid? This is a really important detail. They were not afraid to confront the Jews or the guards, but the empty tomb and the words of the angel made them tremble, and they did fully follow his instructions. Why? there are other important details, such as their question as they approached the tomb, and the important instruction of the angel to tell Peter the news. All of this is not just history, it is a description of your life too.
- "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." What does the world vs. Christians glory in? (mp3 format)
Sunday before the Exaltation of the Cross
Galatians 6:11-18
2013-09-22
SYNOPSIS:"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." The world and true Christians "glory" in different things. What does a Christian "glory" in, how does he cultivate the proper things to "glory" in and what does this mean: "by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."?
- Jesus connects the cross to love by saying "He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." followed immediately by "whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water ...shall in no wise lose his reward." (mp3 format)
Saturday before the Exaltation of the Cross
Matthew 10:37-11-1
2013-09-26
SYNOPSIS:The way of the Cross is to love. Jesus makes this connection, not in so many words, but nonetheless, emphatically for those who understand by stating quot;He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me." followed immediately by "Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water ...shall in no wise lose his reward." The giving of water is symbolic for a particular kind of love that a Christian must have if he is to truly a Christian.
- "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." What is saving belief? Is is hard to do? (mp3 format)
Matins Gospel 03
Mark 16:9-20
2013-09-28
- "I am crucified with Christ: neverthless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:" The way of the cross is to choose to not make a choice! It is the easy and light way! (mp3 format)
Sunday after the Exaltaiton of the Holy Cross.
"The things I used to do, I don't do no more"
Galatians 2:16-20
2013-09-29
SYNOPSIS:When the Apostle Paul exclaims extravagantly: "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:", he is teaching us how to think, and how we think determine what we become. If we live by this amazing statement. we choose to give up our will, and therefore refuse to choose to sin. This is the light and easy way compared to the way of the world. The cross is not an instrument of suffering and the way of the cross is the only way that leads to happiness. We must understand the words of the apostle if we are to fully give up our will to this way. In so explaining, we even quote an old Blues song, whose secular wisdom directly applies to our choosing to be crucified with Christ: "The things I used to do, I don't do no more"
- "Launch out into the deep." The first great catch of fish and instructions in how to live. (mp3 format)
Luke 5:1-11
2013-10-06
SYNOPSIS:The first Great catch of fish has an important commandment, and it is a daily commandment to us from the Lord. When He commanded his disciples to "Launch out into the deep" He was giving us a rule for victorious living. We examine this rule, examples of how to follow it and when it is not followed. May God help us to follow it!
- "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." "He touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still" The Jesus prayer theologically explained. (mp3 format)
Luke 7:11-16
2013-10-20
SYNOPSIS:The resurrection of the Son of the Widow of Nain, and the famous "Hall of faith", from Hebrews, was read today. Both contain important mystical references to the Jesus prayer. The solution to everything is before us! This is exciting news! The whole Gospel is contained in the sublime words of Paul: "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith." It is really this simple! Simple is not easy, but is becomes easy. the theological basis of the Jesus prayer is explained here, and combined with the actions of those in the funeral procession: "And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still", show us the sure and simple way to the resolution of all of our problems.
- Joy is a choice; joy is not the same as happiness. Paul teaches us: "I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice." (mp3 format)
Philippians 1:12-20 Philippians 1:20-27
2013-10-31
SYNOPSIS:Life is lived well if our thoughts are good. The Gospel in particular and all of Scripture teaches us to think well. The Apostle Paul is a master teacher of the art or arts and science of sciences. He teaches us this life-giving and necessary skill with the words "I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice." and "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." If we understand these words and begin to act upon them we will know where joy comes from, and where it does not, and also the difference between joy and mundane, temporal and earthly happiness. We must learn that joy is a choice.
- Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus. It teaches awareness! How do we learn to be aware when a Lazarus crosses our path? (mp3 format)
Luke 16:19-31
2013-11-03
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus contains an important detail that we must be "aware" of - AWARENESS. The Rich man knew Lazarus by name, but his sinful life made him blind to the suffering of Lazarus until it was too late for him. How many times in our lives have we passed a "Lazarus"? We must learn to become aware. Practical ways to achieve this essential virtue are discussed.
- Christology 101: Grace, The descent into Hades,unity, salvation and being truly human DEFINED PROPERLY - it is all in here: Ephesians 4:7-13 (mp3 format)
Ephesians 4:7-13
2013-11-07
SYNOPSIS:Ephesians 4:7-13 is a virtual primer on some of the most import Christological subjects. It is read on the Sunday after Theophany, and also for certain Saints in the Menaion, such As Oct 25 (Marcian & Martyrius, notaries). In this short passage we learn of the descent into Hades, and see salvation, Unity and being truly human defined properly. St Paul is expressing thoughts dear to all Eastern Orthodox Christians, and sometimes not understood so well in the West. We look at these amazing verses: "Every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ" "He led captivity captive" "Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ"
- Beatitudes in Luke. Learn to weep to have joy. "Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh." (mp3 format)
10th Friday after Pentecost
Gospel for Holy Monks, many Hieromartyrs and Hierarchs.
Luke 6:17-23
2013-11-10
SYNOPSIS:The Beatitudes in Luke are read more than any other Gospel selection during the year. We go over each of the 4 beatitudes,. concentration on weeping. The world does not understand the power of weeping; it weeps about the wrong things. The Christian must learn to weep properly; this weeping both increase and be increased by poverty of spirit and hunger. It is not possible to make progress in the spiritual life without weeping. The Gospel insists that the one who does this will laugh; this is true joy, not just worldly and temporal happiness, and it cannot be taken from us. "Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh."
- You must learn how to touch Christ! The healing of the woman with an issue of blood. (mp3 format)
Luke 8:41-56
2013-11-17
SYNOPSIS:The healing of the woman with an issue of blood is told as a parenthetical story within the story of the raising from the dead of the daughter of Jairus, but it is the most important of the two, and contains the greatest miracle. This is a miracle which all of us MUST have, and alas, very few of us experience. A woman who was an outcast, a sufferer from the human condition, was touched by Jesus, because she reached out to Him in faith. This touching is necessary for eternal life. We must cultivate being touched by Jesus. How do we learn to day by day, minute by minute, to reach out to Jesus, and *feel* His touch?
- "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing" What should a Christian give thanks for? (mp3 format)
1 Thessalonians 2:9-14
2013-11-28
SYNOPSIS:On the day of the American Holiday of Thanksgiving it is appropriate to celebrate the Eucharist (which means the giving of thanks), and to thank God for all things. The words of the Apostle Paul read today are also appropriate and will give us opportunity to discuss what the world gives thanks for, and what a Christian should thank God for, and how to learn to give thanks in this way: "... we thank God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe."
- "No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Timothy of Esphigmenou. (mp3 format)
8th Saturday of Luke or 26th Saturday after Pentecost
Timothy of Esphigmenou
Luke 9:57-62
2013-11-30
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel of Luke today gives the answers of Jesus to 3 who wish to follow him, but do not. His answers apply to many of us, even those who consider themselves to be in the church. The last answer also reminds us of the wonderful martyr Timothy of Esphigmenou.
- "And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?" In the parable of the Harvest Of The Rich Man, a question we should never ask but must answer. (mp3 format)
Harvest of the Rich Man
26th Sunday after Pentecost or 9th Sunday of Luke
Luke 12:16-21 Ephesians 2:4-10
2013-12-01
SYNOPSIS:There are questions in Scripture we should never ask, but must answer (we must answer all questions in Scripture!). For example, in the Gospel today, the parable of the harvest of the rich man, wondering about his harvest, "He thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?" We answer this important question, and also bring in the words of the Apostle Paul read today which apply: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9 Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." We were born to become good, and do good, because God is good. If we do not understand this, we have not understood Christianity.
- "And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them..."Understanding is a *process*! (mp3 format)
Luke 18:31-34
2013-12-05
SYNOPSIS:Although Jesus told His disciples plainly about His upcoming arrest, trial and death, they did not believe or understand Him; the Gospel mysteriously says "They understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them". Why was it hidden? We can learn much about ourselves and others by meditating upon this, and we will learn about the mystery of learning spiritual things, sin, patience and labor.
- "A woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself" The Gospel teaches us to see ourselves in the suffering and sins of others so we will be compassionate. (HTML format)
A Woman Which Had A Spirit Of Infirmity Eighteen Years And Was Bowed Together And Could In No Wise Lift Up Herself
Luke 13:10-17 27th Sunday After Pentecost Or 10th Sunday Of Luke
2013-12-08
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mp3 SYNOPSIS:The Gospel is a mirror for our souls. We should learn something about ourselves every time we read it. The sinful and cruel reaction of the rule of the synagogue when the woman with an infirmity of 18 years was healed on the Sabbath has much to teach us - about ourselves. If we do not know ourselves, we will not love God. This Gospel will teach us, and teach us how to become more compassionate, if we have the humility to listen.
- The rich young ruler. Questions not to ask: "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?" (mp3 format)
Luke 18:18-27
2013-12-15
SYNOPSIS:There are questions we should never ask and things we should never say that are in the Scriptures - as an example to us, to teach us that we should know better. One of these questions is asked today by the Rich Young Ruler: "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?". The response of Jesus makes it clear this is a bad question. why is this a bad question and what should we know and how should we live so that we do not ask this (often asked) question?
- The Great Supper is about the Incarnation and the common reactions to it. It also gives the only way to be saved: URGENCY! (mp3 format)
Sunday Of The Holy Forefathers The Great Supper
Colossians 3-4-11, Luke 14-16-24
2013-12-20
SYNOPSIS:The Parable of the Great supper is read 2 Sundays before Nativity. It describes the Incarnation, and men's common reaction to it. The complimentary Epistle describes the way we should react. The Gospel also describes the virtue which we must have to be saved, whether we are good or bad - URGENCY!
- 29th Sunday after Pentecost (mp3 format)
All Things That Are Reproved Are Made Manifest By The Light For Whatsoever Doth Make Manifest Is Light
Ephesians 5-9-19
2013-12-21
SYNOPSIS:Exegesis of Ephesians 5:9-19. There are moral requirments placed upon a Christian - things he should do and not do. Why? This passage explains. It also, in a mystical way explains the reason for confusion and despondency and similar ailments thay are common in modern man: "All things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light."
- Healing of the ten lepers. Gratitude makes one whole. (mp3 format)
Luke 17:12-19
2013-12-22
SYNOPSIS:There is great power and energy in gratitude. It is fundamental part of the Christian life, and absolutely necessity if we are to "be made whole" - and this is the aim and purpose of human life. We look at the two healings in the healing of the ten lepers. All were healed of leprosy but only one was made whole. Let us learn how to inculcate gratitude in practical ways in our life. We also speak briefly on the Jesus prayer and how it should be a model for our prayer.
- "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name... shall not lose his reward." How to evaluate our actions and why we should do good. (mp3 format)
Mark 9:33-41
2014-01-02
SYNOPSIS:Mark 9:33-41 is the Gospel that famously refers to St Ignatius the God-bearer, but this is just a historical footnote. This gospel contains one of those verses that has been life-changing for me. We all should have such verses, and they are different for different people. If you do not have any, or very few, you do not read the Gospels enough. The verse: "For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward." We must learn to not evaluate our actions by whether they are successful (in our eyes) or not. Most of what we do in life will not appear successful, or permanent, but God remembers everything.
- The kindness of Joseph and faith of our Fathers. Sunday before Nativity. (mp3 format)
Sunday of the Holy Fathers
Matthew 1:1-25
2014-01-05
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday before Nativity, we read form the beginning of Matthew and the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews. We can learn much from the kindness of Joseph, and the patience of our Fathers. Without kindness and patience, we will not experience God, or know him. Lets us learn from their example.
- "They departed into their own country another way" The incarnation provides us another way! We are born for to live, not die. (mp3 format)
Matthew 2:1-12 Galatians 4:4-7
2014-01-07
SYNOPSIS:The Gospel on Nativity does *not* contain anything about the day of the birth of Christ, but rather is something that happened perhaps weeks after: the visit of the wise men. There is a very important reason why - it is similar to the reason we do not directly reference the resurrection on Pascha. The Nativity of Christ (the incarnation) does not change us unless we chose *another way* of living. The decision of the wise men, after they worshipped Christ: "And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way." - teaches us that the incarnation is precisely so that we can live our lives in *another way* - not as mere men, but as "God-men". who have been adopted as sons of God.
- Jesus asks a question to the scribes and demonstrates there is no existence or power in evil. (mp3 format)
Length: 3:56
Mark 11:27-33
2014-01-09
SYNOPSIS:When the scribes asked Jesus a question, He asked them one in return - a simple question, easily answered by an honest man. Their scheming and refusal to answer the question shows the utter powerlessness and even non-existence of evil. Those who lie have no power.
- Why these 3 today, the Sunday after Nativity? What can we learn? Short lives of David the King, Joseph the Betrothed & James the Brother of the Lord. (mp3 format)
Sunday After Nativity
2014-01-12
SYNOPSIS:On the Sunday after Nativity, we remember David the King, Joseph the Betrothed & James the Brother of the Lord. Why? There are good spiritual reasons. what can the life of each teach us about how to live?
- "Christ has appeared in the Jordan to sanctify the waters." Exegesis of the Pre-festival Troparion for theophany, and WHY THE THEOPHANY at the baptism of Christ? (mp3 format)
2014-01-18
SYNOPSIS:What happened at the baptism of Christ? The pre-festival troparion explains it. Why did the Theophany (appearance the Holy Triniy) occur at the baptism of Christ? This is central to the purpose of the reason Christ was baptized, and how we are made - we differ from animals and angels in a critical way, which is mystically described at the baptism of Christ.
- Why a Theophany at the baptism of Christ? For the same reason that the Trinity was present at the creation of man. Deep and beautiful theology about baptism, and the image of God in man. (mp3 format)
Matthew 3:13-17 Titus 2:11-14,3:4-7
2014-01-19
- "But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein..." What is the &law of liberty"? (mp3 format)
James 1:19-27
2014-01-23
SYNOPSIS:The "law of liberty" is a law unlike any other. God follows this law, and we must also. Our entire life, if it is lived well, will be spent obtaining (and not just following) this law. what is it? How do we obtain it? This is important - CENTRAL to the Christian life. 525 entries