Podcasts about dcn

Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, host Dcn. Harrison Garlick, along with guests Alec Bianco and Sean Berube, explore St. Basil the Great's letter To Young Men, on the Right Use of Greek Literature, passionately arguing that Christians—especially young men—should actively read pagan classics like Homer, Plato, and Hesiod. Check out thegreatbookspodcast.comCheck out our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GUIDES to the great books.Drawing on personal testimonies, the trio explains how these pre-Christian texts strengthened their own faith, trained natural virtue, sharpened Scripture reading, and revealed seeds of the Logos planted by divine providence. Through vivid analogies—leaves preparing fruit, bees gathering honey, and despoiling the Egyptians—they, supported by St. Jerome's defense, contend that pagan literature is not a threat but a providential gift that grace perfects, forming the soul, evoking wonder, and equipping believers to engage the world with confidence and love.SummaryThe conversation highlights how pagan texts address universal human questions—virtue, meaning, fate, and the divine—preparing the soul for revelation, much as leaves nourish fruit on a branch or mirrors help the immature soul see itself. St. Basil's analogies are unpacked: pagan literature as a shallow pool for beginners, bees selectively gathering honey from flowers, and the need to discriminate good from harmful elements through the standard of Christ. Examples include Odysseus's restraint with Nausicaa as a model of natural virtue and Socrates's near-Christian insights on non-retaliation. The guests stress that grace perfects nature, so training in natural virtue via pagan examples elevates rather than diminishes the supernatural call, challenging modern sloth and low expectations of human potential.Providence is a recurring theme: Hebrew faith and Greek reason converged under Roman order to prepare the world for Christ; parallels in myths (floods, giants, serpents) and the Hellenization of Scripture (Septuagint, New Testament in Greek) show God working through pagan culture. References to Tolkien, Lewis, and Justin Martyr's logos spermatikos underscore that truth found anywhere belongs to Christians. Music and athletics are explored as parallels—pagan modes and contests can form the soul when approached with discernment, just as Doric tunes sobered revelers in Pythagoras's story.The discussion shifts to St. Jerome's Letter 70, defending the use of secular literature against accusations of defiling the Church. Jerome cites Moses educated in Egyptian wisdom, Paul quoting pagan poets, and analogies like despoiling the Egyptians or David wielding Goliath's sword—Christianity takes the best of pagan thought and conquers paganism with it. His provocative image of shaving the captive woman (Deuteronomy) to make secular wisdom a “matron of the true Israel” illustrates stripping away seductive errors to reveal underlying beauty and truth.Ultimately, the episode frames engagement with pagan literature as an act of love: understanding providence, nurturing what is good, evangelizing by meeting souls where they are, and ascending toward the Logos who permeates all reality. The tone is confident and joyful, rejecting both puritanical fear and uncritical consumption in favor of prudent, Christ-centered discernment.KeywordsChristians read pagans, pagan literature Christians, St Basil pagan literature, St Basil Greek literature, why Christians read Homer, why Christians read Plato, classical education Christianity, great books Christianity, and pagan classics faith. Long-tail keywords to target specific searches are should Christians read pagan literature, why young Christian men read

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the first Sunday of Epiphany: Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 89:1-29 or 89:20-29; Acts 10:34-38; Matthew 3:13-17.They discuss the Lord as the source of light and life, the themes of the season of the Epiphany, and Jesus' baptism.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Epiphany--2019 Book of Common PrayerAsk NT Wright Anything podcast episode about John the Baptist's ministryThe Bible ProjectEpiphany: The Season of Glory, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Bible Project discusses Jesus' baptism in the wildernessThe Bible Project Classroom: the baptism of Jesus1:12 Collect7:20  Isaiah 42:1-920:20 Psalm 89:1-29 or 89:20-2934:46 Acts 10:34-3844:17 Matthew 3:13-17 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

Dcn. Coughlin preaches on 1/4/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings010426.cfm

Dcn. Kashmar  preaches on 1/4/26. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings010426.cfm

Episode 1010 (8:09) In this episode: Dcn. Brett Edmonson preaches; Reflections on Herod Antipas and Herod the great; We need to be cautious about spending time on protecting the various things in our lives; Some of the freest persons were our martyrs who trusted God's will Audio Produced on Logic Pro Music: Suno.com Related Web Sites:  My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes

This homily is the second reflection in a three-part Christmas–Epiphany series on the family. Given by Dcn. Chris Haberberger on the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, it focuses on the vocation of motherhood as God's chosen way of giving His Son to the world. The reflection highlights how God's self-revelation comes not in abstraction, but within the simplicity of a family. Mary's motherhood reveals the heart of Christian motherhood in every age: to give Jesus to the world by receiving Him, pondering Him in prayer, and responding with faithful love. Through the often hidden, daily sacrifices of mothers, homes become places where children first learn what it means to be loved, to belong, and to cry out to God as Father. Recognizing that many families carry wounds or unmet hopes, this homily emphasizes that Mary is not only a model but also a refuge. Christ gives her to us as our Mother, and through her tenderness God continues to bring peace, mercy, and healing into real families as they are. This reflection builds upon the previous homily on fatherhood and prepares for the final installment of the series on the mission of the family at Epiphany.

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the second Sunday of Christmas: Jeremiah 31:7-14; Psalm 84 Ephesians 1:3-14; Luke 2:41-52. They discuss the Lord's generosity as seen in abundant feasting, provision of shelter & spiritual inheritance and consider 12 year-old Jesus' time in the temple. Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Christmas--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Supper of the Lamb: A Culinary Reflection, by: Robert Farrar CaponThe Bible ProjectChristmas: Season of Life and Light, by: Dr. Emily Hunter Mcgowin1:02 Collect1:44 Jeremiah 31:7-1420:06 Psalm 8430:38 Ephesians 1:3-1440:00 Luke 2:41-52 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

"The Light Overcomes the Darkness"; Christmastide; John 1:1-18; The Rev. Dcn. J.D. Meeder.

When we are clothed with Christ - as he clothed himself in humanity - we find our perspective on ourselves and those around us changed. Dcn. Justin Smith elaborates on the effects we can expect as we accept and embrace our new wardrobe.If you like what you hear, we hope you'll join us in person if you're in the area. Learn more about us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/servantsanglican⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.servantsanglican.org/⁠⁠

12-21-2025 - Dcn. Tim Hennessey - Wait in Joyful Hope by Church of St. Peter

Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick, Dr. Tiffany Schubert of Wyoming Catholic College, George of the Chivalry Guild, and Banished Kent discuss Fitts 2 and 3 of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight!Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule!Check out our 50 QUESTION-AND-ANSWER GUIDE to Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.Be sure to visit our sister publication, THE ASCENT, for Christian spirituality.Episode SummaryThe panel continues the Christmas reading of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, exploring Fitts 2 and 3 with Dr. Tiffany Schubert. The discussion covers the meditative passage of time, Gawain's elaborate armor and pentangle, his wilderness journey, arrival at the lord's castle, and the three bedroom temptations mirroring the lord's hunts. Themes of courtesy versus Christian prudence, the unexpected location of peril, and human imperfection dominate.Why Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Is Worth ReadingThis poem masterfully redirects chivalric expectations from martial heroism to internal trials of temperance and fidelity, using irony, humor, and subtle symbolism to expose the tensions within knighthood itself. As Dr. Schubert notes, it brings readers “back down into this world”—a murky, incarnate place of comfort and laughter where true danger often hides—while probing whether Christian virtue can govern or perfect courtly ideals. Rich in liturgical resonance, Marian devotion, and realistic grace, it humanizes the heroic quest, making it profoundly relevant for reflecting on temptation, fear, and humility during the Christmas season.Key Discussion PointsTime & Seasons: Opening meditation on cyclical yet forward-moving time; Gawain's lingering and All Hallows' departure as liturgical reflection on mortality.Armor & Pentangle: Lavish buildup of Gawain's gear and “endless knot” (five sets of five perfections, piety surpassing all) as outward ideal—quickly deflated as armor is removed.Mary Inside the Shield: Hidden source of strength and piety governing the public projection of perfection.Wilderness to Castle: Dismissal of monster battles; castle as surprising “answer” to Marian prayer—Providence working through murky, tempting paths.Second Christmas Game: Bertilak's exchange of winnings parallels the first deadly game, shifting peril to courtesy and domestic temptation.Three Temptations & Hunts: Parallel structure—doe (subtle), boar (fierce), fox (cunning); Gawain resists lust admirably but accepts/conceals girdle out of fear of death.Courtesy vs. Christian Prudence: Repeated bedroom returns (no Joseph-like flight) prolong exposure, allowing lady to exploit deeper flaw—courtesy overriding removal from sin.Confession Ambiguity: Post-girdle absolution raises questions of self-awareness and lingering human frailty.

Dcn. John: Fourth Sunday of AdventTo support our podcasts, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.

Dcn. Rick: Fourth Sunday of AdventTo support our podcasts, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for the first Sunday of Christmas: Isaiah 61:10-62:5; Psalm 147:12-20; Galatians 3:23-4:7; John 1:1-18. They discuss the garden & restoration imagery of Isaiah, the guardianship metaphors of Galatians, and the way God's glory is fully revealed in Jesus Christ.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Christmas--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectChristmas: Season of Life and Light, by: Dr. Emily Hunter McgowinNT Wright's Galatians course1:00 Collect6:56 Isaiah 61:10-62:526:56 Psalm 147:12-2031:17 Galatians 3:23-4:745:31 John 1:1-18 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

Sermon delivered by Dcn. Andrew Masters on Sunday, December 21, 2025.View Transcript:https://bit.ly/Sermon_2025-12-21_The-Fourth-Sunday-of-Advent_Dcn-Andrew

Dcn. Coughlin preaches on 12/21/25. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings122125.cfm

Dcn. Kashmar preaches on 12/21/25. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings122125.cfm

Dcn. Noel: Fourth Sunday of AdventTo support our podcasts, go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.givecentral.org/customizable-online-giving/1467/event/44043⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Holy Family is a vibrant Catholic parish located in Southwest Orlando, serving the communities of Dr. Phillips, Windermere, Isleworth, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Horizon West, and Metrowest. We're also just minutes away from Orlando's theme parks—Disney, Universal, and SeaWorld—and the Orlando Convention Center.

"Will You Receive Him?"; From Mountain to Manger; Isaiah 7:10-17; The Rev. Dcn. Melissa Lewkowicz.

Jesus came to bridge the divide between God and humanity. Dcn. Megan Trautman reminds us of God's mercy in saving us, that we may find our home in him.If you like what you hear, we hope you'll join us in person if you're in the area. Learn more about us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/servantsanglican⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.servantsanglican.org/⁠⁠

Morning Light presents our weekly Vocation Station segment. Today, Dcn. Sal Carranza, Director of Diaconate for the Diocese of Boise, joins us to discuss Christmas. Does the Deacon's role change during Mass during the Christmas octave? 

Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, we are discussing Fitt 1 of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Justin Jackson of Hillsdale College, Chivalry Guild, and Banished Kent.Check out thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Check out our WRITTEN GUIDE to Sir Gawain and the Greek Knight (posted soon!).Episode SummaryThe panel dives into the 14th-century Middle English masterpiece Sir Gawain and the Green Knight, exploring its mysterious single-manuscript survival, alliterative brilliance, and rich layers of meaning in Fit 1. From the Troy-to-Britain prologue to the shocking arrival of the Green Knight and the beheading game, the discussion uncovers dualities, temptations, and the clash between chivalric courtesy and Christian virtue that make this Christmas tale profoundly relevant.Why Sir Gawain and the Green Knight Is Worth ReadingThis poem stands as one of the greatest works of English literature because it masterfully blends adventure, humor, moral depth, and spiritual insight. As Dr. Jackson notes, it survived by miracle in a single tiny manuscript, yet offers the “greatest chivalric romance” alongside exquisite theological literacy. It probes timeless questions—how do pride, fear, courtesy, and faith collide in a fallen world?—without easy answers, forcing readers to wrestle with their own choices. Tolkien saw it as a meditation on seductive worldly culture versus Christian ethos; the guests highlight its realistic portrayal of human imperfection amid high ideals. Beautifully crafted (alliteration, bob-and-wheel, vivid imagery), often funny, and profoundly Christian, it humanizes the heroic while elevating humility and grace—perfect for Christmas reflection on mortality, temptation, and redemption.Key Discussion PointsManuscript & Poet: A unique survival with Pearl, Cleanness, and Patience; anonymous poet of astounding skill in alliterative revival.Historical Frame: Begins with Troy's fall and Aeneas (traitor in medieval legend) leading to Brutus and Britain—history as “bliss and blunder.”Arthur's Court: Young, vital Arthur is admirable yet “somewhat childish,” craving marvels or “life for life” combat.Guinevere's Gray Eyes: Symbol of wisdom/clarity, yet ambiguous; benchmark of beauty later challenged.Green Knight's Duality: Terrifying green giant vs. courtly noble—tempting fear/violence vs. courtesy/mercy.The Game: Explicitly “stroke for stroke,” not beheading; court's violent interpretation reveals failures.Tolkien's Lens: Tension between seductive chivalric/courtly culture and higher Christian virtue.Gawain's Intervention: Praised as humble, loyal self-sacrifice to shield Arthur.Notable QuotesDr. Jackson: “The poem is giving you two readings throughout, and then it wants to see which one are you going to appropriate.”Deacon Garlick: “This text captures my imagination… knowledge is an antecedent to love.”George (via Tolkien): “Gawain… as a matter of duty and humility and self-sacrifice.”Resources & RecommendationsTolkien's translation and scholarly editionJames Winny's facing-page translationDr. Jackson's Hillsdale online course lecture (watch after finishing the poem to avoid spoilers)Next episode: Fits 2–3 with Dr. Tiffany Schubert. Join the discussion on Patreon or X!

Dcn. Javy CortezChrist the Light Series

Episode 1006 (9:31) In this episode: Dcn. Brett preaches; Story of a friend who had some difficulties in her youth and how she has been restored since; The story illustrates the power of God's love restore us; Restoration is a common theme of Advent--to restore what was lost Music: Suno.com Related Web Sites:  My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for Advent 4: Isaiah 7:10-17; Psalm 24; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-25.They discuss the narrative imagery of the virgin birth, the vanity of idolatry, and Joseph's point of view on the nativity.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Advent--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectDwell's series with Malcolm GuiteAdvent ResourcesInterested in the virtual book group for Ask of Old Paths, by: Grace Hamman? Join me here. PDF of the Household Compline serviceAdvent: Season of Hope, by: Tish Harrison WarrenAdvent: The Once and Future Coming of Jesus Christ, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Art of Advent, by: Dr. Jane WilliamsWaiting on the Word, by: Malcolm GuiteWatch for the Light: Readings for Advent and ChristmasAll Creation Waits, by: Gayle Boss1:04 Collect14:31 Isaiah 7:10-1730:01 Psalm 2447:38 Romans 1:1-756:56 Matthew 1:18-25 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

Dcn. Coughlin preaches on 12/14/25. Worship Aid: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings121425.cfm

Dear friends in Christ, welcome to this podcast from All Saints Episcopal Church in Portland. All Saints is a loving, welcoming parish serving Southeast Portland for over a century. Our purpose is to celebrate God's love, seek and serve Christ in all persons, and go forth into the world rejoicing in the power of the Spirit!Today, we invite you to join our good friend and recently ordained Rev. Dcn. Jack Mandeville as he preaches the gospel, and explores the mysteries of God in our modern world!

Dcn. Nathan Dearen, December 14, 2025.

Discover the beauty of the Eastern Catholic tradition through a conversation with Fr. Dcn. Kyle Washut, Byzantine deacon and president of Wyoming Catholic College, as he shares insights on the diaconate, the 'two lungs' of the Church, and why the fullness of Catholicism offers the ancient mysticism people seek—without leaving Rome.https://wyomingcatholic.edu/person/kyle-washut/https://www.catholic.com/profile/kyle-washut

Today on Ascend, we discuss Plato, education, the role of the teacher, eros, beauty, and much more drawing from the dialogues First Alcibiades and the Meno. Returning to the podcast, we have Dcn. Garlick, Dr. Frank Grabowski, Dr. Brett Larson, and Thomas Lackey.Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Visit our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GUIDES to help you read the great books. What does it mean to teach like Plato? In this rich, wide-ranging conversation the panel explores lessons on education drawn from Plato's First Alcibiades and Meno. The central idea: the true teacher is not an information-dispenser or job-trainer, but a lover of the soul who serves as a living mirror in which the student comes to “know himself” and is drawn toward virtue, happiness, and ultimate beauty.Summary:The conversation revolved around a single, radiant idea: for Plato, the true teacher is not a dispenser of information or a trainer for the marketplace, but a lover of the soul. In First Alcibiades, Socrates positions himself as the living mirror in which the young, ambitious Alcibiades can finally see himself clearly and be drawn toward genuine happiness through virtue. Education is therefore deeply personal, erotic (in the classical sense of an ardent desire for not only pleasure but also nobility and wisdom), and irreducibly communal; self-knowledge is never solitary navel-gazing but requires another soul whose loving gaze reflects one's own. The panel repeatedly contrasted this rich, teleological vision—where education aims at universal happiness, orders the whole person toward truth, goodness, and beauty, and ultimately points to God as the final mirror—with the thin, “unerotic” reality of modern schooling, which often reduces teachers to talking search engines and students to economic cogs in a materialist machine.A second major thread was the haunting, unresolved tension of the Meno: teaching demands both an able and willing teacher and an able and willing student. Virtue can be cultivated, but it cannot be forcibly downloaded; the student must respond, cooperate, and allow his desires to be re-ordered toward what is truly lovable. This led to broader reflections on beauty, rhetoric, place, and hierarchy: truth is beautiful and therefore insists on being loved; philosophy without rhetoric is impotent, rhetoric without philosophy becomes tyrannical; ugly buildings and disembodied logic deform the soul; natural hierarchy is not abolished by grace but perfected and placed in service of the common good. Throughout, the panel returned to the conviction that genuine education is slow, embodied, relational, and oriented toward the transcendent—an ascent that begins with a teacher who truly sees and loves the soul before him.Key words: Plato, First Alcibiades, Meno, classical education, teacher as lover of the soul, know thyself, virtue, happiness, eudaimonia, beauty, transcendentals, eros, mirror of the soul, rhetoric, philosophy, modern education critique, materialism, teleology, Socratic method, student-teacher relationship, hierarchy, imago Dei, Christian Platonism, and Great Books.This conversation was recorded April 2025.

Endometriosis is finally being understood for what it truly is: a whole-body inflammatory, immune-dysregulating disease that affects far more than the pelvis—and far more than just your period. If you've ever felt dismissed by doctors, confused by contradictory information, or overwhelmed by your symptoms, this conversation is going to feel like someone finally turning on the lights.In this interview, I sit down with Dr Jessica Drummond! Dr. Jessica Drummond, DCN, CNS, PT, NBC-HWC, has been passionate about supporting, caring for, and empowering people who struggle with women's and pelvic health concerns throughout her 24 year career working as a physical therapist and clinical nutritionist.Dr. Drummond's trademarked approach is holistic, multi-pronged, and comprehensive, which combines science-informed research, functional nutrition application, lifestyle medicine strategies, nervous system regulation, mind-body connection, hormone balance, physical & manual therapy, and so much more. While her private clients hold a special place in her heart, Dr. Jessica Drummond is equally passionate about educating and supporting clinicians and wellness professionals to become certified health coaches so they can confidently and safely provide integrative tools and treatment to their clients.In this in-depth interview, we unpack 20+ years of clinical experience and research to help you understand:

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for Advent 3: Zephaniah 3:14-20; Psalm 85; Philippians 4:4-9; Luke 3:7-20.They discuss the joyful imagery of the Lord's deliverance, Paul's encouragement to the Philippians and John the Baptist's announcement of the Good News.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Advent--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectMary and Elizabeth imageAdvent ResourcesInterested in the virtual book group for Ask of Old Paths, by: Grace Hamman? Join me here. PDF of the Household Compline serviceAdvent: Season of Hope, by: Tish Harrison WarrenAdvent: The Once and Future Coming of Jesus Christ, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Art of Advent, by: Dr. Jane WilliamsWaiting on the Word, by: Malcolm GuiteWatch for the Light: Readings for Advent and ChristmasAll Creation Waits, by: Gayle Boss1:03 Collect4:46 Zephaniah 3:14-2012:31 Psalm 8518:35 Philippians 4:4-936:02 Luke 3:7-20 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

"Christ's Upside Down Kingdom" From Mountain to Manger, Isaiah 11:1-10, The Rev. Dcn. J.D. Meeder.

Dcn. Joey Dumalaog shares the word.

It's time to MAN UP on Morning Light! Each week at this time, we talk with gentlemen from across the Diocese of Boise, getting our hands dirty on a variety of topics affecting Catholic men today. Dcn. Eric Meyer from St. Augustine's in Moscow joins us today to share his thoughts on the theme for the month of December - "The Silent Strength of Saint Joseph"

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for Advent 2: Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72:1-15 (16-19); Romans 15:1-13; Matthew 3:1-12.They discuss the poetic and prophetic vision of the Messianic King, Paul's exhortation to humility and unity, and John the Baptist's call for repentance.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Pentecost--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectKingdom, Grace & Judgment: Paradox, Outrage & Vindication in the Parables of Jesus, by: Robert Farrar CaponAdvent ResourcesInterested in the virtual book group for Ask of Old Paths, by: Grace Hamman? Join me here. PDF of the Household Compline serviceAdvent: Season of Hope, by: Tish Harrison WarrenAdvent: The Once and Future Coming of Jesus Christ, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Art of Advent, by: Dr. Jane WilliamsWaiting on the Word, by: Malcolm GuiteWatch for the Light: Readings for Advent and ChristmasAll Creation Waits, by: Gayle Boss0:57 Collect1:57 Isaiah 11:1-1020:48 Psalm 72:1-15 (16-19)37:33 Romans 15:1-1350:38 Matthew 3:1-12 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

Salt & Light Radio celebrates the life-changing work of all our Catholic communities with our Parish of the Week program. To nominate your church, send an email to Morning Light at Salt and Light Radio-dot-com. Our Parish of the Week is St. Nicholas in Rupert as we talk with Dcn. Paul Hensheid about this church that celebrated its first Mass in March of 1908. The school was added in 1958 and now serves over 150 students. The parish, under the current leadership of its pastor Fr. Camilo Garcia, now serves 600 families!

Dcn. Edsyl Cayabyab shares the word.

In the incredible final act of Plato's Gorgias (481–527), Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Greg McBrayer (Ashland University, New Thinkery podcast) tackle the longest and most brutal confrontation: Socrates versus Callicles, the most shameless, most ambitious, and—as Greg insists—nastiest character in all of Plato. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our read schedule!Check out our COLLECTION OF GUIDES to the great books.Go to THE ASCENT to receive two spiritual lessons a week.Callicles storms in threatening to “whoop Socrates in the mouth” and delivers the most radical claim yet: conventional justice is a sham invented by the weak; by nature the superior should rule, take more, and live without restraint—coining the first recorded “law of nature” in Western literature to mean might makes right (482e–484c). Socrates flips the argument, forces Callicles to admit intelligence without self-control is mere cleverness, and reduces his unlimited-pleasure principle to absurdity with the leaky-jar and escalating vulgar examples (constant scratching, the catamite, 494–495), provoking Callicles' outraged “Aren't you ashamed?”—proof he still clings to the noble (kalon) despite his bravado.At 503a Socrates finally reveals the two kinds of rhetoric: the shameful, flattering kind that seeks only pleasure, and the true, noble rhetoric that “makes the souls of citizens as good as possible” and strives to say “what is best” whether pleasant or painful—the kind Socrates claims to be the only Athenian practicing (521d). When Callicles becomes completely recalcitrant, Socrates turns to the audience with the unforgettable myth of naked souls judged by dead judges (523a–527e): every injustice leaves visible scars no rhetoric or power can hide; the cosmos itself is ordered toward justice and will not allow injustice to triumph forever. Athens is about to execute its only true statesman, but the myth promises that in the final reckoning Socrates' just soul will shine while his accusers' scarred souls stand exposed. The dialogue ends not with Callicles' conversion but with Socrates' quiet vindication: living justly is ultimately worth it, even in a city that kills its best citizen. Next week: a short break from Plato for Flannery O'Connor's “The Lame Shall Enter First.”

Matthew 28 | Dcn. Javy CortezMatthew Series

Episode 1003 (10:15) In this episode: Dcn. Brett Edmonson is preaching; In the U.S., we look at kings with distain based on our national heritage; Biblically, some kings were bad and others were good; We celebrate Christ as the perfect king. Let us enthrone him in our hearts Cover Image from Chat GPT Music: MusicHero.ai Related Web Sites:  My Website Podcast PageAll Previous Episodes

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for Advent 1: Isaiah 2:1-5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 24:29-44.They discuss the theme of the mountain of the Lord and readiness for the Lord's return by putting off the deeds of darkness and putting on the light.Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Pentecost--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectThe Bible Project: Mountain of the LordKingdom, Grace & Judgment: Paradox, Outrage & Vindication in the Parables of Jesus, by: Robert Farrar CaponAdvent ResourcesInterested in the virtual book group for Ask of Old Paths, by: Grace Hamman? Join me here. PDF of the Household Compline serviceAdvent: Season of Hope, by: Tish Harrison WarrenAdvent: The Once and Future Coming of Jesus Christ, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Art of Advent, by: Dr. Jane WilliamsWaiting on the Word, by: Malcolm GuiteWatch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas1:11 Collect3:06 Isaiah 2:1-516:06 Psalm 12221:11 Romans 13:8-1433:56 Matthew 24:29-44 Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

"Christ the King Among Us," Christ the King Sunday; Psalm 46; Rev. Dcn. Ashley Davis.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) affects many patients with pancreatic cancer, yet it is often overlooked in this patient populations, which leads to malnutrition. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Shelby Yaceczko, DCN, RDN, CNSC. Yacescko is a supporting author on a recently published White Paper on the topic, and she explains what EPI is, how to screen for and treat the condition, and the essential role of dietitians in an interdisciplinary care team managing these patients.  In this episode, we discuss: How overlapping GI symptoms, lack of standardized screening tools, and limited guidelines contribute to missed diagnoses and delayed treatment What inspired the development of the White Paper How to bring EPI management into everyday practice The ready-to-use checklists, screening forms, and EHR templates within the White Paper designed to standardize treatment Hosted by Kristin Houts Click here for the shownotes. The content, products and/or services referred to in this podcast are intended for Health Care Professionals only and are not, and are not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. The content is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgement before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. The reference to particular products and/or services in this episode does not constitute any form of endorsement. Please see here for terms and conditions.

Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick and Dr. Matthew Bianco of the Circe Institute discuss the second part of Plato's Gorgias--the dialogue between Socrates and Polus—Gorgias' spirited, “colt-like” student who bursts in at 461b accusing his own teacher of being “too ashamed” to admit rhetoric needs no justice, only the power to persuade. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Visit our LIBRARY OF WRITTEN GUIDES to the great books.Visit our sister publication, THE ASCENT, for two spiritual lessons per week.What follows is pure Platonic fireworks: Socrates refuses long speeches, forces short questions, and delivers the unforgettable pastry-baker analogy (462–466a), branding rhetoric as mere flattery—like cookery or cosmetics for the soul—that “has no speech to give about the nature of the things” (465a). Polus agrees with several premises yet recoils when Socrates concludes that doing injustice is worse than suffering it, and the unpunished tyrant is the unhappiest man alive (478–479). The conversation spirals into a shocking vision of punishment as medicine for the soul: the wrongdoer should run to the judge “as to a doctor” (480b). Throughout, the hosts explore whether rhetoric itself is evil or only rhetoric divorced from philosophy, using the tripartite soul as a foothold—Gorgias as corrupted intellect, Polus as honor-craving thumos, Callicles (next week) as unashamed appetite—while Socrates models a just soul governing all three. Dr. Bianco brings fresh insight into Socrates' tailored pedagogy and the happiness that only a philosophical rhetoric can truly serve.Key Themes & Search Tags:• Plato's Gorgias• Polus• Rhetoric vs Philosophy• Tripartite Soul• Doing injustice vs suffering injustice• Punishment as medicine• Pastry-baker analogy• Classical Education• Socrates pedagogy• Pleonexia• Happiness eudaimonia

Sun. November 9, 2025: "Why Come to Mass?" Dcn. Kevin Welch

Jonathan Pageau returns to explore the symbolic meaning behind Christianity, evil, gender confusion, and why civilizations collapse at the height of abundance. In the conversation, Aaron respectfully challenges aspects of Christian doctrine, asking hard questions about hell, salvation, and religious exclusivity.OUR GUESTJonathan Pageau is a professional artist, writer, and public speaker based in Quebec, Canada. He specializes in carving Orthodox Christian icons and designing traditional sacred images and products. Through his YouTube channel and podcast, The Symbolic World, he explores how symbolic patterns inform our experiences of the world and can re-enchant contemporary life.Jonathan is the founder of Symbolic World Press, a publishing house dedicated to the renewal of culture through storytelling and rediscovering symbolic thinking. The Press publishes works such as the Tales for Now & Ever fairy tale series—which includes The Tale of Snow White and the Widow Queen, Jack and the Fallen Giants, and the most recent publication now available for pre-order, Rapunzel and the Evil Witch—as well as the GodsDog graphic novel series and other books. The Press also hosts online courses led by Jonathan and other influential thinkers such as Dr. Martin Shaw, Fr. Dcn. Seraphim Rohlin, and Prof. John Vervaeke, covering topics from storytelling and literature to cognitive science and philosophy.In addition, the Symbolic World website features a community forum and a contributor-driven blog that deepen engagement with symbolic thinking. Jonathan has written extensively on artistic and religious symbolism, including hundreds of articles for the Orthodox Arts Journal.JONATHAN PAGEAU

Send us a textJoin Fr. Aaron & Marissa Burt for this week's episode, in which they consider the readings for Christ the King Sunday 11/20-11/26: Jeremiah 23:16; Psalm 46; Colossians 1:11-20; Luke 23:35-43.They discuss the prophetic condemnation of unjust and exploitative shepherds, the promise for a righteous and saving Messianic judge, the magnitude of the Incarnation and God's fullness embodied in Jesus, and the evergreen human impulse to make Jesus into the King we think He should be.You are not here to verify,/ Instruct yourself, or inform curiosity/ Or carry report. You are here to kneel/ Where prayer has been valid. And prayer is more/ Than an order of words, the conscious occupation/ Of the praying mind, or the sound of the voice praying. From TS Eliot's "Little Gidding"Notes:--Dwell App--Prayers of the People for Pentecost--2019 Book of Common PrayerThe Bible ProjectThe Bible Project: Gospel of the KingdomAdvent ResourcesInterested in the virtual book group for Ask of Old Paths, by: Grace Hamman? Email athomewiththelectionary@gmail.com for additional details.PDF of the Household Compline serviceAdvent: Season of Hope, by: Tish Harrison WarrenAdvent: The Once and Future Coming of Jesus Christ, by: Fleming RutledgeThe Art of Advent, by: Dr. Jane WilliamsWaiting on the Word, by: Malcolm GuiteWatch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas1:10 CollectDiscussion of the Advent season 7:10 Jeremiah 23:1614: Our outro music is an original song by our friend Dcn. Jeremiah Webster, a poet and professor whose giftedness is rivaled by his humbleness. You can find his published works, including After So Many Fires, with a quick Google.

Sermon by Dcn. Robert Polen23rd Sunday of Ordinary TimeQuestions for Group Discussion1. How is our situation similar to the situation of the first generation of the church as it waited for the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem?2. Jesus warns the church that there are two ways they can be led astray. Where do you see evidence of these two ways in the life of the church?3. Why is it important to know what to expect as we wait for Jesus to fulfill his promises?4. How are we tempted to abandon Jesus' mission for his church?5. What is our hope as we wait? How do we encourage one another with this hope?

"In war and battle, this is the way to do your part."Today on Ascend: The Great Books Podcast, Dcn. Harrison Garlick is joined by the Athenian Stranger and Johnathan Bi to introduce the Gorgias and discuss the first part: the dialogue of Gorgias and Socrates.What begins as a polite inquiry into the nature of rhetoric erupts into a war for the soul of Athens—and for every reader seeking the good life. Visit thegreatbookspodcast.com for our reading schedule.Visit our COLLECTION OF GUIDES to the great books. Visit Athenian Stranger.Visit Johnathan Bi.Athenian Stranger frames the conflict as two competing “technologies” of speech: Gorgias' art that grants “freedom for oneself and empire over everyone else” (452d) versus Socrates' dialectical practice that knows “the natures and causes of things” (464b–465a). The dialogue's three-part structure—shortest with reserved Gorgias, medium with spirited Polus, longest with shameless Callicles—spirals downward, exposing pleonexia (infinite grasping desire) beneath all three souls. Dcn. Harrison Garlick underscores the dialogue's raw honesty: Athenian youth, like us, faced a nihilistic void after the gods' decline, craving tyranny over truth. Philosophical gems abound—“better to be harmed than harm,” “better to be punished than escape justice”—while the pastry-baker analogy brands rhetoric without philosophy as mere flattery. The world that Socrates is engaging with is far more like our world than I think I realized… nihilism as a modern phenomenon? You see this really with the young men of Athens too.” - Dcn. Harrison Garlick“We all have erotic longings. The question is, they of the noble things that separate us from the beasts or are they of the bodily pleasures?” - Athenian StrangerNext episode: Polus defends raw power with Dr. Matthew Bianco (Circe Institute).