Podcasts about ancient faith

The Areopagites welcome the CEO of Ancient Faith Ministries to talk about the creation and consumption of Christian media – its strengths, weaknesses, weirdnesses, and what its relationship is to church life. Bonus Feature: Swedenborgian chickens. 0:00 - Cold Open 0:27 - Introduction 3:03 - Three Martyrs Studio 4:20 - Evangelical media & VBS 14:32 - Ancient Faith's approach to Christian media 28:33 - Evangelicalism & Swedenborgianism 48:38 - The Sanctification of the Internet 58:07 - The Possessors vs. the non-Possessors 1:06:42 - Using media to win brothers 1:20:48 - Being effective without being manipulative 1:27:05 - Internet Orthodoxy supplementing Parish life 1:33:27 - Creating good children's media 1:41:54 - Outro

Witness Weekly | WW001 | Kickoff Episode!0:00 Intro0:15 Mario Andrew – News6:26 Discussion of the Week21:05 James St Simon – Book & Film Recommendations / Review26:28 Michael – Redlines (Philosophy & Politics)30:25 Jeremy Jeremiah – Viewer Comments & Questions“Smells and bells” vs “bare walls” misses the point. We debate beauty, Scripture, continuity, and why people say they met God at the Divine Liturgy.A bishop detained under murky circumstances. A fresh call for Orthodox unity a decade after the Council of Crete. A study that claims part of a papal encyclical reads like it was AI assisted. We kick off the first Witness Weekly by moving fast through the headlines, then slowing down where it matters: what these moments reveal about religious freedom, public pressure on clergy, and the real stakes for Christians trying to live faithfully in a tense political climate.We launch Witness Weekly with Orthodox news, a deep dive on why evangelicals convert to Orthodoxy, and a candid look at how rhetoric and assumptions can flatten real theological differences. We close with Dostoevsky's The Brothers Karamazov, a challenge to political fixes for evil, and listener questions on worship music, conversion, and parish life.• Metropolitan Hilarion's detention in Lithuania and why prayer for clergy matters• Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew's renewed call for Orthodox unity and what changed since Crete• A study suggesting AI assisted writing in a papal encyclical and where the line might be• Archbishop Elpidophoros' hospitalization and continued prayers for his recovery• Common conversion motives and why “aesthetics only” is an unfair summary• Purgatory as a Roman Catholic doctrine and why Orthodoxy gets mislabeled• Institutional continuity versus doctrinal continuity and how Reformers argued their case• The catechumen process as evidence that conversion is usually slow and deliberate• Book of the week The Brothers Karamazov and why it speaks to believers and skeptics• The problem of evil, the Grand Inquisitor, and the limits of political solutions• Listener comment on worship music, tradition, standards, and Christian art• Advice for Protestants navigating hard conversations when exploring OrthodoxyPlease let us know your thoughts in the commentsFrom there, we take on a question we keep seeing everywhere: why are evangelicals converting to Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy? We challenge the lazy take that people switch churches because they got dazzled by “smells and bells” or seduced by a vague sense of history. We talk about the long, prayerful process most converts go through, the catechumen journey, and the way outsiders often lump Orthodoxy and Catholicism together, especially around doctrines like purgatory. We also dissect the rhetoric behind “continuity” claims, including how Reformers like John Calvin argued they were the true heirs of the ancient Church.We pivot into culture and formation with our book of the week, The Brothers Karamazov, and why Dostoevsky still feels uncomfortably current. We connect the problem of evil, the Grand Inquisitor's political temptation, and the hard truth that there is no ideology that can substitute for personal responsibility and repentance. Finally, we respond to listener comments on worship music, tradition, and standards, and we offer practical advice for Protestants navigating difficult conversations while exploring Orthodoxy. Can worship music be “frozen in time” and still alive? We respond to a tough listener critique, talk standards, lyrics, and the difference between church worship and Christian art. Mario Andrew  ⁨@AndrewStMercy⁩ James St Simon  ⁨@jamessaintsimon⁩ Michael  ⁨@redlineshq⁩  Jeremy Jeremiah Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

Are you tired of just "going to church"? In this Vision Sunday message, Pastor Mitch dives into what it means to be a modern church embodying an ancient faith. Sermon Notes - http://bible.com/events/49616436 Digital Connect Card - https://redeemertampa.com/connectcard Online Giving - https://redeemertampa.com/give

Genesis 6 describes the Nephilim as demonic hybrids who occupy positions of authority in human society. They're entirely real, says Father Stephen De Young.  (00:00) What Are the Nephilim? (03:40) The Advanced Civilization Before the Flood (15:55) Was Technology Given to Us by Demons? (36:38) Is Japan Still Producing Nephilim? (46:09) Are the Nephilim Still Among Us? (59:11) Is There Fossil Evidence of Giants? The V. Rev. Dr. Stephen De Young is Pastor of Archangel Gabriel Orthodox Church (http://stgabriellafayette.org/) in Lafayette, Louisiana. He holds Master's degrees in theology, philosophy, humanities, and social sciences, and a Ph.D. in Biblical Studies from Amridge University. Fr. Stephen is also the host of the Whole Counsel of God (http://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/wholecounsel/) podcast from Ancient Faith and author of six books: The Religion of the Apostles, God is a Man of War, The Whole Counsel of God, Apocrypha, Saint Paul the Pharisee, and the Baal Book. He co-hosts the live call-in show and podcast Lord of Spirits (https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/lordofspirits/) with Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick. Find Fr. Stephen De Young's books here: https://store.ancientfaith.com/stephen-de-young-books/ Paid partnerships with: Brooklyn Bedding: Get 30% off sitewide with promo code TUCKER at https://brooklynbedding.com American Financing: NMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 5s start at 6.327% for well qualified borrowers. Call 800-685-5696 for details about credit costs and terms. Visit http://www.AmericanFinancing.net/Tucker. Paleovalley: Use code TUCKER & get 20% off your first order at https://paleovalley.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melanie interviews Fr. Ted Pulcini, co-author of Ancient Faith's new publication, Blinded by Rage: How Anger Keeps Us from Seeing God. They discuss the timely nature of the book, the dangers of anger, and the Orthodox antidote.  Find "Blinded by Rage" here: https://store.ancientfaith.com/blinded-by-rage-how-anger-keeps-us-from-seeing-god/ 0:00 - Introduction 1:31 - Fr. Ted's background 8:50 - Motivation to write "Blinded by Rage" 14:49 - Working with Oswin (John) Craton 16:40 - The teaching on anger from the Scriptures 24:36 - The teaching on anger from Church Fathers 33:44 - The dangers of angry religion 41:30 - Is anger more prevalent in today's world? 44:00 - How is anger uniquely dangerous as a passion? 45:50 - What is the antidote to anger? 49:13 - Most important takeaway from the book? Music License: Friends by Alex-Productions | https://onsound.eu/ Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons / Attribution 3.0 Unported License (CC BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Find this episode on YouTube:Dr. Nicole Roccas has been researching and writing about time from both a historical and theological perspective for nearly ten years. In addition to being a writer and editor, she lectures at the Orthodox School of Theology at Trinity College (Toronto). You can find more of her writing on her Ancient Faith podcast and blog, Time Eternal.Discover more about Nicole: https://www.nicoleroccas.com-----------------------Conrad's Deli - The best jerky you'll ever have: https://conradsdeli.com/ use promo code "FIRST THINGS" for 10% off.-----------------------✒ Substack: https://johnheersftf.substack.com/ⓧ https://x.com/johnfromftf

What if the ache you feel on Sunday isn't a lack of passion, but a hunger for roots? Tony Nektarios Vasquez joins us to share how a Pentecostal upbringing, a non-denominational season, and eventually a Calvinist-leaning church plant still left him asking where the first 1,500 years fit in. His story is not a theory lesson—it's a family saga: a praying father discovering the Desert Fathers, a brother slipping out to Vespers, a wife and children encountering reverence for the first time, and a co-pastor who realized that history, Scripture, and worship belong together.We trace Tony's path from Pentecostal roots and a non-denominational church plant to a sober look at church history, liturgy, and apostolic succession. Family doubts, online study, and the beauty of Vespers turn hesitation into conviction as Scripture and tradition align.• questioning charismatic altar practices and emotionalism• moving from Reformers to the first 1,500 years• parish visits to St James and first Vespers• answers on icons, relics, and intercession from Scripture• liturgy as continuity with Old Testament worship• apostolic succession and the promise that the Church endures• closing a young church to enter Orthodoxy• finding healing and stability in the sacramentsWe walk through the uncomfortable questions most avoid. Are altar manifestations genuine or coached? Does sola fide stand when held beside James and the early Church? How do relics, icons, and the intercession of the saints square with the Bible? Tony takes us inside St. James Orthodox Church in Modesto, where incense and chant weren't novelty, but a doorway to Christ-centered prayer. He shares the moment his daughter said the hymns made her want to cry, the way Revelation reframed prayer as a communion of heaven and earth, and how apostolic succession answered the authority problem that haunted his independent church.This conversation is a guided tour from system to story, from proof texts to a living tradition. We touch on the continuity between Old Testament worship and the Divine Liturgy, the claim that the Church Christ founded never paused or rebooted, and the quiet courage it took to close a young church for a faith that felt both ancient and alive. If you've wondered where the dots connect—Scripture, history, and sacrament—this is an honest map drawn in real time.If this resonates, share it with a friend, subscribe for more thoughtful journeys into the ancient faith, and leave a review to help others find the show. Your questions and stories shape future episodes—drop them in the comments and say hello to Tony.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

You may remember Martha Condra from her Ancient Faith podcast about food and faith called Wheat, Wine, and Oil. Martha holds a degree in culinary arts and has developed recipes at Cooking Light and Health magazines. She is a mother and grandmother in Birmingham, Alabama.

In which I mostly talk about the Shroud of Turin. Murray only spends seven pages on the it, so my review is not comprehensive. Actually, never mind. That's what the top sections are for. Taking Religion Seriously By: Charles Murray Published: 2025 152 Pages Briefly, what is this book about? Murray's journey from agnosticism to belief, a journey that is largely intellectual rather than spiritual. Because it was largely intellectual, it's also more explicable. This allows Murray to write a different sort of conversion story, one that's more amenable to being mapped out as a straightforward guide with sources and citations. What authorial biases should I be aware of? Murray has been a libertarian thinker for decades, though he's probably best known for The Bell Curve which he co-authored. So Murray is approaching things from a conservative/libertarian milieu. That said, it's a very balanced book. When he provides his sources for a particular idea he also includes sources that are critical of that idea. Who should read this book? I've read a lot of books that fall in this general area. Too many to list (consider The New Testament in Its World, Modern Physics and Ancient Faith and Believe just in the last six months) I would read Murray before reading any of them. It's clear, comprehensive, short, and meaty. Even if you're a raging atheist I would read this book because it's the quickest way to understand your opponents' best arguments. Specific thoughts: The surprising strength of the Shroud of Turin

From Megachurch Disillusionment To Hope.Josiah the inquirer sits down with Cloud of Witnesses, Mario Andrew and Jeremy Jeremiah.A skull on a thumbnail, bells in the background, and a monk's voice quoting Saint Isaac changed everything. Josiah didn't set out to find ancient Christianity; he just needed something more honest than a forced smile and a quick fix. What he discovered was not an edgy aesthetic for its own sake, but a fearless way of naming reality: remember death, confront the passions, and be made new in Christ.We trace the unlikely path from hardcore shows to holy tradition, exploring why Orthodoxy can feel “metal” without the nihilism. The conversation dives into Saint Paul's call to be a living sacrifice, Saint Isaac's searing inventory of the passions, and the strange relief that comes from a church that looks you in the eye and tells you the truth. Icons and martyrdom aren't there to shock; they give shape to hope, showing lives that died to the world so that love could live. Along the way we talk Kat Von D, Holy Name, and the kind of inclusivity that rescues, not indulges—come as you are, but don't expect to stay there.• first contact with Orthodoxy through a stark video• megachurch cynicism versus honest talk about death• Saint Isaac the Syrian on the passions• Scripture's call to die to self• icons, skulls, and martyrdom as truthful symbols• baptizing subculture without baptizing sin• real inclusivity as rescue and transformation• providential friendships and cigar night community• practical next steps toward catechesis• lighthearted barber stories to closeWhat ultimately makes the search real is community: providential friendships, a cigar night, and a Clouded Witnesses feature that turned curiosity into courage. We share practical insights on taking first steps toward Orthodoxy, why asceticism answers modern anxiety, and how subculture can be baptized without baptizing sin. And yes, we close with a few unforgettable barber tales, because joy and humility are part of the medicine.If you're hungry for a faith that can hold sorrow and still make it sing, press play, share this with a friend, and tell us the moment that hit you hardest. Subscribe for more journeys, leave a review to help others find the show, and drop your questions—we're listening.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest co-host Maria, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about preparing for admission to seminary, the church's position on corrective baptism, how to prepare for frequent communion, understanding the Orthodox Church's self-identification as the One True Church, and the necessity of kissing icons to one's salvation.

Modern Conservatism is collapsing, and it isn't because of the Left. It's because the Right has abandoned biblical order, biblical loyalty, and biblical leadership.In this episode of Uncommon Sense, I'm examining how our so-called conservative leaders have traded Christianity for political convenience, elevating foreign loyalties, unbiblical theology, and female authority over God's clearly established design. When prominent figures openly choose Judaism over Christianity and Israel over America, we must ask: What exactly are we conserving anymore?Scripture is clear: Christianity is a patriarchy with God as its Head, Christ as King, and men called to lead in righteousness. A movement that rejects this order will inevitably rot from the inside out.This episode is a call to return to:Christ over cultureFaith over foreign allegianceGod's elect over globalist prioritiesBiblical men over platformed female personalitiesIf Conservatism wants to survive, it must first repent.--https://www.bible.com/

Can you be “just Christian” and still wear a team jersey? In this episode, Cloud of Witnesses team members Jeremy Jeremiah, Mario Andrew, and James St Simon sit down to react to a Reformed Protestant defense of labels, movements, and sola scriptura, and then press into the deeper questions underneath it all: unity, authority, and what it really means to be catholic in the sense of a complete, historic faith.We explore how “no labels” talk can hide real discomfort with fragmentation, and ask whether you can credibly claim two thousand years of Christian heritage while setting aside the worship, sacramental life, and conciliar teaching that actually shaped that heritage. Along the way, we test modern Protestant confessions against the early Church and ask whether you can quote the Fathers without also receiving the churchly life they inhabited.In this conversation we dig into:• The pull of “no labels” Christianity and the problem of theological tribes• What it means to be catholic as complete, not just universal• How liturgy, sacraments, and councils tether us to the early Church• Sola scriptura versus Scripture within a living Tradition and teaching authority• The danger of cherry picking Augustine, Chrysostom, and others to fit our systems• Justification as declared righteous versus actually being made righteous by grace• Why the New Testament insists that works and real transformation are necessary• Assurance, baptism, and whether a believer can truly fall awayAt the heart of the episode is the engine of the Reformation: sola scriptura. Our Protestant friends call Scripture “the norm that norms other norms.” We ask what that looks like on the ground, where every believer can become their own referee and the result is endless splintering. Against that, we explore a vision of Scripture inside the Church, where the Bible is read, preached, and lived within the grammar of historic worship and sacramental life.If you care about what unites Christians across the centuries, how faith moves from theory into a way of life, and whether the Fathers can really be claimed without the Church they loved and defended, this episode is for you. Share it with a friend who loves theology, tell us where you land in the comments, and join the Cloud of Witnesses community as we keep wrestling with the faith once delivered to the saints.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

In episode THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FIVE, Mike and Wade discuss growing interest over the last few decades in the ancient faith and historical traditions. Why has interest grown? What should we make of it? How should we approach it?We hope you enjoy the episode! For more about the show and the hosts, visit the Let the Bird Fly! website. Thanks for listening! Attributions for Music and Image used in this Episode: “The Last One” by Jahzzar is licensed under an Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 International License. “Gib laut” by Dirk Becker is licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License. “Whistling Down the Road” by Silent Partner.

What if reverence isn't a feeling you chase, but a reality you enter?This episode follows a grateful former Protestant named Michael from his upbringing all the way to a first Divine Liturgy in a small Orthodox chapel on a military base in Okinawa—and the quiet discoveries that happened along the way. Join Cloud of Witnesses hosts Jeremy Jeremiah and Mario Andrew as we move through warm family memories, the culture shock of military life, and the slow drift that happens when belief outruns practice. Then the trail turns: an old-school YouTube series on church history, the Jordan River baptismal site, a striking painting of confession, and even a meme about the Theotokos—little breadcrumbs pointing toward something older, deeper, and strangely familiar.What we explore (without the debate club tone):Icons, saints, Mary—through the Incarnation: not add-ons, but practices that flow from God made flesh and the Church's unbroken life.A reframing question: instead of “Were the early Fathers really Christians?” try “Would they recognize our faith as theirs?” That single question reshapes how we think about worship, authority, sacraments, and belonging to a parish that actually forms us.Worship reimagined: the first Liturgy lands as awe-filled, ordered, communal—not performance or preference but the Church at prayer.Accountability & spiritual fatherhood: why guidance matters when culture pulls hard—and how confession, obedience, and community keep us real.Vocation with roots: plans for law school and faithful presence in public life, now steadied by a tradition that tells you who you are.Gratitude without amnesia: love for Scripture and prayer received in Protestant homes, alongside honesty about what felt missing—continuity, reverence, and a daily rule of life.If you've felt restless—church-hopping, yearning for weight and continuity—this conversation offers a gentle map: the ancient path is not a museum; it's a living way that teaches hearts to pray, minds to think with the Church, and bodies to worship with all the senses.Listen & share. If this resonates, subscribe and send to a friend who's searching. In your review, tell us the one question you'd ask the early Church—what would you hope they recognize in your faith?Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTokPlease leave a comment with your thoughts!

Is the Non-Denominational Church Even A Church?  What do you think?If you love Jesus and hunger for something older, deeper, and steadier than the non-denominational scene, this conversation is for you.Cloud of Witnesses hosts Jeremy Jeremiah, Mario Andrew, and first time, special guest host Michael, weigh the spectacle of modern worship against the historic shape of the church and ask a hard question with charity: are non-denominational congregations churches, and are they the church Jesus founded. Personal stories, doctrine, and authority guide a candid look at formation, sacraments, and accountability.We look gratefully at what many non-denom churches do well—zeal for the gospel, real hospitality to seekers—while asking a harder question: what actually makes a church the Church Jesus founded? From there we explore how that answer shapes worship, formation, and accountability over a lifetime.What we unpack (high level):Experience vs. endurance: how production-heavy services can spark decisions but fail to grow deep roots.Doctrine & discipleship: why “results” metrics quietly displaced catechesis, repentance, and the classical pattern of spiritual growth.Sacraments at the center: communion, baptism, confession—not as add-ons, but as Christ's appointed means of grace.Authority that can correct: the difference between a movement built on personalities and an institutional church with bishops, priests, and deacons in apostolic succession.Oversight & ordination: what happens when there's no higher court to address error—or to restore a fallen leader.Belonging vs. floating: why “me and Jesus” Christianity leaves people spiritually unparented and communities fragile.This isn't a hit piece—it's an appeal to fullness. If your faith feels powerful but thin, if leadership turnover keeps resetting the vision, or if you're curious about ancient paths that have held through centuries, we point toward a visible, sacramental, and accountable church life that forms believers for the long haul.Listen, share, and discuss with a friend who's asking the same questions. If this helped you think more clearly about church and discipleship, subscribe, rate, and leave a review so others can find the show.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTokPlease leave a comment with your thoughts!

In this episode, Lloyd fires up the Biblical Time Machine with Professor Nicholas Baker-Brian, and they travel back to third-century Persia to meet one of antiquity's most fascinating and misunderstood figures: Mani, the visionary behind the global religion we now call Manichaeism. They ask: who was Mani, what are the sources for his life, and what do we know about the ancient faith which bears his name? Nicholas Baker-Brian is Professor of Late Antique Studies in School of History, Archaeology and Religion at the University of Cardiff. He has published widely on religion in late global antiquity, and is one of the world's leading experts in the study of Manichaeism. Today on the show Lloyd discusses Professor Baker-Brian's 2011 book, Manichaeism: An Ancient Faith Rediscovered, which is a scholarly yet accessible introduction to Manichaeism, published by T&T Clark in 2011.SUPPORT BIBLICAL TIME MACHINEIf you enjoy the podcast, please (pretty please!) consider supporting the show through the Time Travellers Club, our Patreon. We are an independent, listener-supported show (no ads!), so please help us continue to showcase high-quality biblical scholarship with a monthly subscription.DOWNLOAD OUR STUDY GUIDE: MARK AS ANCIENT BIOGRAPHYCheck out our 4-part audio study guide called "The Gospel of Mark as an Ancient Biography." While you're there, get yourself a Biblical Time Machine mug or a cool sticker for your water bottle.Support the showTheme music written and performed by Dave Roos, creator of Biblical Time Machine. Season 4 produced by John Nelson.

If you had been placing bets 150 years ago around what physics would have to say about the existence of God, you would have lost a lot of money.  Modern Physics and Ancient Faith By: Stephen M. Barr Published: 2003 312 Pages Briefly, what is this book about? Barr takes all the discoveries of 20th-century physics, stuff like the Big Bang, quantum mechanics, the various forces, and argues that all of these things are more compatible with belief in God, specifically a traditional Judeo-Christian God, than with a belief in pure materialism.  This is illustrated most succinctly in the underlying values for various background constants of the universe. For most of these if they varied even slightly then life would be impossible. This is known as the fine-tuning argument for the existence of God, and Barr lays it out in rigorous detail.  What's the author's angle? Barr is a scientist, and a believing Catholic. So he definitely has a dog in the fight, but he also does a good job of steelmanning the other side of the argument. Also it's important to clarify what the fight is. It's not a fight between religion and science. Barr is both a believer and a scientist. It's a fight between religion and materialism. Which is a different animal. This is not to say he's dogmatic (perhaps I shouldn't keep using the word "fight") the tone is very reasonable. He's mostly targeting a lazy "modern science shows that God is silly and unnecessary" crowd. Who should read this book? This was one of the books mentioned by Ross Douthat in his book Believe (see my review of Douthat's book here, or check out the PSmith's far superior one here). And I was glad I followed Douthat's recommendation, the book did not disappoint. If you're at all interested in the fine-tuning argument or related ideas I think you'll love this book. But I can clearly see where it's too niche for the majority of people. What does the book have to say about the future?

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest co-host Maria, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about the authority of a metropolitan versus that of a bishop, letting go of anger after a Christian friend has hurt you, the Orthodox perspective on AI, and more!

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest co-host Maria, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about the authority of a metropolitan versus that of a bishop, letting go of anger after a Christian friend has hurt you, the Orthodox perspective on AI, and more!

We pick up the conversation with Fr. Andrew talking about Demons. Who or what are they? You may be surprised to know that the term 'demon' originally referred to lesser spiritual beings (neither positive nor negative), but the early Christians used it pejoratively to describe pagan gods. In the Bible, these beings create chaos  and involved in both oppression and possession. Today's episode also includes a short analysis of the movie 'K-Pop Demon Hunters,' (With Spoilers!) highlighting its themes of redemption, self-sacrifice, and the portrayal of demonic influences.Find out more about Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick with links to his books HEREListen to The Lord of Spirits HEREListen to his review of K-Pop Demon Hunters (with spoilers!) HEREContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest co-host Sarah, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about prioritizing personal growth vs. spiritual practice when trying to draw closer to Christ, how to prepare oneself when for frequent Communion, the role of guardian angels in our spiritual lives, and more!

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest co-host Sarah, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about prioritizing personal growth vs. spiritual practice when trying to draw closer to Christ, how to prepare oneself when for frequent Communion, the role of guardian angels in our spiritual lives, and more!

Send us a textThe Ancient Faith - Caleb SpeerI therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. (Ephesians 4:1–6, ESV)We are called to be unified as one. We must also be one with God. We are to reflect his image from ourselves and choices. This oneness is what unites us in Christ and God. We are called to be unified in Christ. We must strive for it. We are one because Christ died on the cross, not because we agree on something. Unity does not equal uniformity. Though diversity is essential, this is by design with God. Though at first it may seem to be divisive, the Ephesian and Roman letters were written to illustrate this. What was designed by God is this Ancient faith. It provides us a family for us to strive together. Because it isn't new, we must go back to the foundations of the church that Christ established. What is the result? We invite you to the community striving for unity while the world is out to divide us. Fighting for unity makes us holy and bears the fruit of the Spirit. We have to consider giving up some of our personal wants in order to unify. Christ is what unifies us regardless of race, culture, tradition, locale, or nationality. =====Searching for answers to life's questions? Need help finding a church? Drop us a line. We would love to help you find a congregation that practices the love of Christ. The Extra Mile Podcast is a work of Milwaukee Ave Church of Christ in Lubbock, TX. Assembly times:9:30 AM - Classes for all ages10:30 AM - Sunday Morning Assembly5:00 PM - Sunday Evening Assembly7:00 PM - Wednesday Evening AssemblyEmail us:  the.emile.pod@gmail.comInstagram: @extramilepodcastSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/546CHn6Qvdh807yhYC5sHL?si=j6-jHRTiRh6_Non9E9URagApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-extra-mile-podcast/id1550189689Google Play: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8xMjgwNTI1LnJzcwWe would love to hear from you! Email: the.emile.pod@gmail.com Instagram: @extramilepodcast

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest cohost Lydia, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about the significance of blessing objects, the role of Orthodox mysticism in our experience of God, recommended colors for head coverings, and more!

In this special mailbag episode of Orthodoxy Live, Fr. Evan is joined by guest cohost Lydia, an attendee of Ancient Faith's 2025 Lampstand Institute, to answer your questions about the significance of blessing objects, the role of Orthodox mysticism in our experience of God, recommended colors for head coverings, and more!

“I've built my own faith from spare parts.”If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Our guest calls it “Frankenstein Christianity”—picking what feels good, discarding what doesn't. After years of debates and burnout, he unplugged from church, Bible studies, and Christian content altogether… until one unexpected YouTube video on Orthodox church architecture broke through. For the first time, he saw a faith that engages all five senses—where every line, light, icon, and hymn points to Christ.Hosted by Jeremy Jeremiah, Mario Andrew, James St. Simon, and special guest Eddie G.Then came his first Divine Liturgy: the “spiritual punch” of incense, the priest turning to ask the people's forgiveness, and the ancient exchange—“Christ is in our midst.”  “He is and ever shall be.”He wept: “These people believe Jesus is really here. Why haven't I been like this?”Along the way, the so-called “problem areas” (Mary, icons, censers, traditions) snapped into focus. Torn from their purpose they can look foreign; rooted in the Incarnation, they become signposts to the living God. Orthodoxy doesn't bend to modern preferences—it invites us into ancient, Christ-centered worship that has remained steady for centuries.In this episode you'll hear:How “Frankenstein Christianity” gives way to received, embodied worshipWhy faith + works in James 2 describes a living, grace-energized faithWhat the Church means by theosis (2 Peter 1:4)—and why it's not “earning” salvationHow Mary, icons, and tradition function as Incarnation theology, not add-onsPractical first steps toward a stable rule of prayer (Scripture, Psalms, Jesus Prayer)Who this is for:Christians weary of performative spirituality, Protestants curious about the apostolic faith, and anyone wondering if the ancient path might be what your soul has been searching for.Subscribe to Cloud of Witnesses for more conversations where ancient faith meets real life.Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTokPlease leave a comment with your thoughts!

Throughout history, humans have sought immortality, but only God can truly conquer death through Jesus Christ. The Christian belief in bodily resurrection affirms that God created our physical bodies as good and worthy of respect. This stands in contrast to philosophies that view the body as worthless, leading to destructive behaviors. Scripture consistently portrays burial as an act of faith and hope, using the metaphor of a seed planted that will grow into something greater. Our belief in resurrection should impact how we treat our bodies in life and how we approach death, living with the confident hope that through Christ, we will be raised with glorious bodies.

When Evangelical Zeal Meets Ancient Christianity: A Conversation Between FriendsWhat happens when two long-time friends—one a passionate evangelical content creator, the other a devout Eastern Orthodox Christian—sit down inside a church filled with ancient icons to talk about faith, history, and what it means to follow Jesus? In this compelling and heartfelt dialogue, David Latting and Ben Langlois (Orthodox Luigi) offer something rare: a conversation marked by both conviction and deep mutual respect.Though they come from very different traditions, David and Ben's friendship sets the tone for an honest, disarming exchange. David opens up about his spiritual journey—how intense theological debates with Muslims drove him to investigate church history, and how walking through ancient cathedrals awakened a hunger for something deeper than modern formulas. In a moment of raw vulnerability, he describes being moved to tears during an Orthodox liturgy, even while remaining rooted in his Protestant community. “I want to break that wall,” he says, referring to the misconceptions that often prevent evangelicals from seriously engaging with Orthodoxy.Ben responds not with defensiveness, but with clarity and grace. He explains Orthodox Christianity's understanding of apostolic succession, the theological meaning of icons as “windows into heaven,” and how salvation is seen not as a one-time event, but a lifelong process of becoming more like Christ. His insights are never presented as a challenge to Protestant faith, but as an invitation to consider the historical richness of the early Church.Together, David and Ben reflect on the hunger many Christians feel today for worship that is Christ-centered, reverent, and historically rooted. They share a mutual concern about the rise of personality-driven church culture and discuss how liturgical structure and ancient rhythms offer spiritual depth that many young believers are longing for.What makes this conversation so meaningful isn't just the exchange of ideas—it's the way both men keep Jesus at the center. They demonstrate how friendship, humility, and shared love for the gospel can bridge even deep theological divides.Whether you're Protestant, Orthodox, or simply curious about the richness of Christian tradition, this conversation invites you to reflect more deeply on your own faith journey. Could exploring the ancient paths of the Church help you walk more closely with Christ? Find an Orthodox Church near you today. Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdhPlease prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Please leave a comment with your thoughts!

The Apostles' Creed mentions only one aspect of Christian living: 'the forgiveness of sins,' highlighting its central importance. Sin is attractive and pleasurable, which makes it such a persistent problem in our lives. Society has tried to eliminate guilt by removing rules, but this approach has only led to more chaos and suffering. Psalm 130 teaches that the answer to our sin problem lies not within ourselves but with God. When we humble ourselves, confess our sins, and turn to God, He responds with forgiveness, mercy, and compassion. This forgiveness frees us from guilt and enables us to serve God with reverence.

Note: An early morning thunderstorm knocked out power to the building so service was led from a small battery powered speaker. Understanding the Communion of Saints: A Timeless Connection explores the profound meaning behind this declaration from the Apostles' Creed. Discover how the church transcends both place and time, connecting believers across generations. Learn the biblical definition of saints as all believers made holy by God, not just exceptional individuals. Explore the rich meaning of communion (koinonia) as fellowship, partnership, and household, exemplified by the early church in Acts 2.This teaching reveals how the communion of saints extends beyond those living on earth to include believers throughout history. Jesus taught that God is the God of the living, meaning those who have passed through death have simply moved from earthly life to heavenly life. Scripture shows saints in heaven as a great cloud of witnesses, active in prayer, and participating in worship before God's throne.Hebrews 12 provides a remarkable picture of how believers are connected across time, having come near to the heavenly Jerusalem, to angels, to those whose names are written in heaven, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, and to Jesus himself. This communion of saints—the Church Militant (on earth) and the Church Triumphant (in heaven)—reminds us that we are never alone in our faith journey.This message will transform your understanding of church, worship, and your daily walk with Christ. Discover how being part of this timeless connection brings comfort, courage, and a deeper appreciation for your place in God's eternal family.

Rivers of Living Water: Finding Refreshment in the Holy Spirit explores Jesus' powerful proclamation at the Feast of Booths. During this ancient Jewish celebration commemorating God's provision of water in the wilderness, Jesus stood and declared that all who believe in Him would have rivers of living water flowing from their hearts. This living water is the Holy Spirit, given to all believers after Jesus' glorification. The message examines how the Holy Spirit transforms believers, enabling them to maintain joy and thanksgiving even in difficult circumstances, just as Paul and Silas sang hymns while imprisoned. When filled with the Spirit, believers experience a melody in their hearts, speak God's word freely, and find gratitude in every situation. Receiving the Holy Spirit involves active participation—recognizing God as the giver, believing in Jesus, praying to be filled, and making room in our hearts. While receiving the Spirit happens once at salvation, being filled with the Spirit is an ongoing process requiring continual surrender and removal of anything that displaces God's presence. This teaching provides practical guidance for both new believers seeking to receive the Spirit and long-time Christians desiring to be freshly filled. It addresses common obstacles to experiencing the Spirit's fullness and offers biblical strategies for creating space for God's presence.

Being Ever Ready for Christ's Return: Practical Steps for Faithful Living explores how Christians can prepare for Jesus' second coming. Rather than trying to predict dates (which historically has a 0% success rate), believers are called to constant readiness. Jesus uses the illustration in Luke 12 of servants dressed for service with lamps burning, awaiting their Master's return from a wedding feast. This message breaks down five practical aspects of readiness: First, recognizing Jesus as the true Master of our lives by rejecting the notion of a 'delinquent God' who allows us to live delinquent lives. Second, engaging in Christian community since Jesus always portrays waiting servants in households, never alone. Third, regularly sharing our faith with non-believers, which keeps us mindful of Christ's return. Fourth, actively using our gifts and talents for God's kingdom rather than waiting idly. Fifth, being properly 'dressed' in Christ's character daily—clothed with mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and love as described in Colossians 3. The message concludes with practical applications including writing a reminder that 'I am not the master, but the Master is coming back.

Living with Confidence: Knowing How the Story Ends explores how understanding Jesus's promised return transforms our daily lives. Just as the Y2K panic dissolved once we knew the outcome, Christians can face life's challenges with confidence knowing Christ will return. The message examines Acts 1 and other scriptures confirming Jesus will return personally, literally, and visibly—the same Jesus who walked on earth will come back in the same way He left. For those wondering about the 2,000-year wait, 2 Peter 3 explains that God exists outside of time, and His apparent delay is actually divine patience, giving more people the opportunity to turn to Him. This understanding should reshape our priorities in five key ways: helping us recognize what's truly important versus what's trivial, encouraging us to live as pilgrims rather than permanent residents, aligning our actions with our beliefs, using our time wisely for kingdom purposes, and viewing our current struggles through the lens of eternal hope. The message offers practical applications for examining priorities, simplifying possessions, evaluating spiritual readiness, and sharing hope with others.

The righteous will live by faith.

The righteous will live by faith.

Eastern Orthodox parishes in the USA have been seeing a remarkable increase in numbers, especially among young men. Justin speaks to converts, priests and journalists about why this ancient church stream is encountering a fresh wave of seekers. Fr Andrew Stephen Damick, John Mark Reynolds, Jonathan Pageau and Rod Dreher explain the attraction of Orthodoxy's ritual and sense of the supernatural. Storyteller Martin Shaw, Gen Z influencer Freya India and 'Apostate Prophet' Ridvan Aydemir, tell their stories of conversion to Eastern Orthodoxy. More info, book & newsletter: https://justinbrierley.com/surprisingrebirth/ Support via Patreon for early access to new episodes and bonus content: https://www.patreon.com/justinbrierley/membership Support via Tax-deductible (USA) and get the same perks: https://defendersmedia.com/portfolio/justin-brierley/ Give a one-off gift via PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/brierleyjustin Buy the book or get a signed copy: https://justinbrierley.com/the-surprising-rebirth-of-belief-in-god/ Got feedback? Share it with us by emailing: feedback@think.faith Ep 13 show notes: https://justinbrierley.com/surprisingrebirth/season-2-episode-13-the-orthodox-boom-new-converts-to-an-ancient-faith The Surprising Rebirth of Belief in God is a production of Think Faith in partnership with Genexis, and support from The Jerusalem Trust. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I have no earthly idea how to describe this conversation. It's about religion and belief – at this moment in our politics, and in our lives more generally.My guest and I come from very different perspectives. Ross Douthat is a Catholic conservative, who wrote a book called “Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious.” I'm a … Californian. But I think everyone would enjoy this conversation — believers, skeptics and seekers alike.Some questions touched on: Is the Trump administration Christian or pagan? How do Christian Trump supporters reconcile the cruelties of this administration with their faith? Can religious experiences be explained by misfiring neurons? Should organized religions embrace psychedelics? Can mystery provide more comfort than certainty?And if you do enjoy this episode, be sure to check out Douthat's new New York Times Opinion Audio show “Interesting Times,” available wherever you get your podcasts, and on YouTube.Mentioned:Interesting Times with Ross Douthat“Donald Trump, Man of Destiny” by Ross DouthatLiving with a Wild God by Barbara EhrenreichBook Recommendations:Modern Physics and Ancient Faith by Stephen BarrAfter by Bruce GreysonMind and Cosmos by Thomas NagelThoughts? Guest suggestions? Email us at ezrakleinshow@nytimes.com.You can find the transcript and more episodes of “The Ezra Klein Show” at nytimes.com/ezra-klein-podcast. Book recommendations from all our guests are listed at https://www.nytimes.com/article/ezra-klein-show-book-recs.htmlThis episode of “The Ezra Klein Show” was produced by Elias Isquith. Fact-checking by Kate Sinclair and Mary Marge Locker. Mixing by Isaac Jones, with Aman Sahota and Efim Shapiro. Our executive producer is Claire Gordon. The show's production team also includes Marie Cascione, Annie Galvin, Rollin Hu, Marina King, Jan Kobal, Kristin Lin and Jack McCordick. Original music by Pat McCusker. Audience strategy by Kristina Samulewski and Shannon Busta. The director of New York Times Opinion Audio is Annie-Rose Strasser. Unlock full access to New York Times podcasts and explore everything from politics to pop culture. Subscribe today at nytimes.com/podcasts or on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

What's it like to be an Orthodox Christian in Syria? Father Josiah Trenham shares powerful stories of faith under fire. Over 12 years ago, Sunni jihadists kidnapped the Archbishop. Today's Archbishop faces no less danger. When the leader of ISIS passed through Aleppo, he sent a chilling message: "I'll have your head." The Archbishop's bold reply? "Come and take it—I'm not leaving my people."The courage of Syrian Christians under persecution is both inspiring and convicting—a sharp contrast to the religious freedom we often take for granted. Join Father Josiah and me as we explore religious freedom worldwide, the history of the Orthodox Church, the power of martyrs, and more.Fr Josiah's YouTube channel: ⁨@PatristicNectarFilms⁩ NEW: Join our exclusive Rose Report community! https://lilaroseshow.supercast.com - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, monthly AMA, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-EveryLife: https://www.everylife.com Buy diapers from an amazing pro-life diaper company and use code LILA and get 10% off!-Crowd Health: https://www.joincrowdhealth.com/ The new alternative to health insurance - sign up and use the code "LILA" for a special deal of $99 for your first 3 months!-Covenant Eyes: http://covenanteyes.sjv.io/Kjngb9 Sign up to grow in purity and gain traction over sexual addiction: use code “LILA” for a free month!00:00:00 - Intro00:03:46 - Why Orthodox?00:09:09 - Catholic vs Orthodox00:09:43 - Covenant Eyes00:10:46 - Orthodox vs Catholic vs Protestant00:19:08 - Orthodox are Very Stubborn00:20:22 - Crowd Health00:21:21 - Orthodox Liturgy melted Father's heart00:25:41 - Biggest differences between Catholic and Orthodox?00:29:42 - EveryLife00:30:30 - “Radical Difference” in understanding of Holy Spirit00:41:50 - Christians in Syria and Middle East00:44:40 - Early Church Martyrs00:48:43 - Are you in touch with Christians in Syria?00:50:28 - Islam and War in Syria00:54:56 - What do you make of moderate Muslims?01:09:06 - What can we do for Syrians?01:14:41 - Trump Administration

Join Fr Nick and Dr Roxanne as they discuss "Forgiveness" the first lesson that Jesus taught us from the Cross on Holy Friday. This is the first chapter of their book, available from Ancient Faith, 6 Hours, 7 Lessons: How Christ's Light Transcends Our Darkness.

Join Fr Nick and Dr Roxanne as they discuss "Forgiveness" the first lesson that Jesus taught us from the Cross on Holy Friday. This is the first chapter of their book, available from Ancient Faith, 6 Hours, 7 Lessons: How Christ's Light Transcends Our Darkness.

Year(s) Discussed: 1809-1865 What seems at first glance to be a simple question - What is democracy? - is one that many have pondered over the ages. In my discussion with Allen C Guelzo on his new book, we explore how Abraham Lincoln approached that question, what influences led to the crafting of the concept of the "Lincolnian democracy," and what we can learn from this to carry forward into the present day. More information can be found at https://www.presidenciespodcast.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit andrewsullivan.substack.comRoss is a writer and a dear old colleague, back when we were both bloggers at The Atlantic. Since then he's been a columnist at the New York Times — and, in my mind, he's the best columnist in the country. The author of many books, including Grand New Party and The Decadent Society, his new one is Believe: Why Everyone Should Be Religious (which you can pre-order now). So in this podcast, I play — literally — Devil's advocate. Forgive me for getting stuck on the meaning of the universe in the first 20 minutes or so. It picks up after that.For two clips of our convo — on the difference between proselytizing and evangelizing, and the “hallucinations of the sane” — see our YouTube page.Other topics: Creation; the improbable parameters of the Big Bang; the “fine-tuning” argument I cannot understand; extraterrestrial life; Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy; Hitch; the atheist/materialist view; the multiverse; quantum physics; consciousness; John von Neumann; Isaac Newton; human evolution; tribal survival; the exponential unity of global knowledge; Stephen Barr's Modern Physics and Ancient Faith; the substack Bentham's Bulldog; why humans wonder; miracles; Sebastian Junger and near-death experiences; the scientific method; William James; religious individualists; cults; Vatican II; Pope Francis; the sex-abuse crisis in the Church; suffering and theodicy; Lyme Disease; the AIDS crisis; Jesus and the Resurrection; Peter J Williams' Can We Trust the Gospels?; and the natural selection of religions.Browse the Dishcast archive for an episode you might enjoy (the first 102 are free in their entirety — subscribe to get everything else). Coming up: Jon Rauch on the tribalism of white evangelicals; Evan Wolfson on the history of marriage equality, Yoni Appelbaum on how America stopped building things, Chris Caldwell on the political shifts in Europe, Nick Denton on the evolution of new media, Francis Collins on faith and science, and Mike White of White Lotus fame. Please send any guest recs, dissents, and other comments to dish@andrewsullivan.com.

Allen Guelzo, author of "Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment"

Allen Guelzo, author of "Our Ancient Faith: Lincoln, Democracy, and the American Experiment"