Podcasts about eastern orthodox christians

Dr. Romina Istratii shares her powerful journey from Moldova to Greece and beyond, shaping her work at the intersection of faith, gender, and international development. As a researcher and practitioner, she reflects on the limitations of traditional academia and the need for more inclusive, community-driven approaches to addressing societal challenges such as domestic violence. Romina discusses how her faith as an Eastern Orthodox Christian deeply influences her commitment to ethical research and social impact. She highlights the importance of decolonizing knowledge production, ensuring that local voices are not only included but lead the conversation.   Listener Engagement: Discover more about Romina via her LinkedIn profile and via the website of the Institute of Domestic Violence, Religion and Migration and its LinkedIn page and Instagram. Share your thoughts on this episode via walktalklisten. Your feedback is invaluable to us. Explore the songs selected by Romina and other guests on our #walktalklisten playlist here. Follow Us: Support the Walk Talk Listen podcast and Maurice by liking and following Maurice on Blue Sky, Facebook and Instagram. Visit our website at 100mile.org for more episodes and information about our initiatives. Check out the special WTL series "Enough for All," featuring Church World Service (CWS) and the work of the Joint Learning Initiative (JLI).

Gavin Ortlund poses a question for Eastern Orthodox Christians: how *could* the damnation of the non-Orthodox be stated? See my previous video here: https://youtu.be/q7eih3Bqgv0 Truth Unites exists to promote gospel assurance through theological depth. Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) is President of Truth Unites and Theologian-in-Residence at Immanuel Nashville. SUPPORT: Tax Deductible Support: https://truthunites.org/donate/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/truthunites FOLLOW: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gavinortlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TruthUnitesPage/ Website: https://truthunites.org/

The Prayer of Azariah and Song of the Three Holy Children: More Apocryphal AdventuresIn today's episode of Sacrilegious Discourse, Husband and Wife are back with more apocryphal shenanigans! After tackling the tale of Susanna and the Elders, they're now diving headfirst into the Prayer of Azariah and the Song of the Three Holy Children. Get ready for a fiery ride!We kick things off by chatting about where these chapters come from—most Bibles don't have them, but the Greek Septuagint does. These passages were left out of the Hebrew and Aramaic texts but are a big deal for Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christians. The story drops us right into the fiery furnace scene from Daniel Chapter 3, where Azariah and his buddies are singing and praying while surrounded by flames.As we break down the text, we dig into the historical and theological bits. Why all the praise for God when things look so grim? And what's up with the Greek stuff like Hades popping up? We also chat about how these passages reflect the socio-political vibes of the Babylonian exile.From the endless praise to the miraculous divine save, we bring our usual mix of humor and skepticism to this ancient tale. Whether you're here for the theological deep dive or just some laughs, this episode has got you covered.Visit us at: SACRILEGIOUSDISCOURSE.COM and join us on Discord, where we hang out the most AND have live episodes every Wednesday: https://discord.gg/VBnyTYV6nC Join Acast+ to enjoy our podcast adfree! https://plus.acast.com/s/sacrilegiousiscourse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Questions Covered: 02:27 – I am an Eastern Orthodox Christian. If I got in a time machine and teleported back to post-schism Catholic Europe (let’s say the 1400’s) would it be a sin for me to receive the sacraments there? Would it then cease to be a sin if I teleported back to anywhere in pre-schism Europe, or post-schism Russia or Greece? Would it be a sin if a modern-day Protestant tried to receive the sacraments? Additionally, would there be any conflicts with a Catholic or Orthodox Christian from our time receiving the sacraments from a medieval priest? 06:13 – On a previous episode you were talking about theophanies and christophanies and how it’s possible that any of the three persons of the Trinity could be incarnate in any event other than Christ’s birth. I assume the angel Jacob fought and the angel in the furnace with the three youths are such examples. However there are also instances where actual angels have been incarnate, such as in the hospitality of Abraham. My first question related to this is, when these theophanies, christophanies, and angels were incarnate, should we assume that they had physical bodies? My second question is can fallen angels become incarnate, and if they can, would they have physical bodies when they do so? 14:42 – Was Genesis written after Jacob’s lifetime? I’m having a conversation with a friend who believes Eve had relations with Satan, stating that the word beguiled in Hebrew means to seduce body and soul. She bore Cain from that union and that’s why Cain isn’t mentioned in the genealogy. She also says that’s why Jesus told the Pharisees they were sons of the Devil. 19:50 – The video game character “Kirby” has a unique power: He has a nearly bottomless stomach, and whenever he consumes an enemy, he temporarily gains their powers in what is called a “copy ability”. If Kirby were to be received into the Catholic Church, what would happen when he eats Christ’s body and blood in the Eucharist? 22:21 – I have heard it described that God created all the humans, angels, nature, and all of our world as an author creates characters in a book. God is a creator, and humans are sub-creators. When God created the world, he gave the beings in it various souls, vegetative for plants, sensitive for animals, and rational for humans. When a human author creates a world and a character to inhabit it, let’s say Bilbo Baggins, does that creature have a soul? Does that sub-created world have any eternity? 24:12 – I was watching Capturing Christianity with Fr. Lampert today when a caller asked about a spiritual/demonic attachment to him since living in a house where a woman was murdered by her husband.  It made me think of something horrible.  My mother had an abortion before having me. Could this have caused a spiritual or demonic attachment to me? I also wonder if the dramatic increase in abortion rates has anything to do with the increase in depravity in our culture, spiritually. 32:11 – I have a weird question pertaining to guardian angels and reincarnation reports. Do our guardian angels get transferred to other people when we die? For example, could my guardian angel have guarded another person who died at the same time I was conceived? Is it possible that reincarnation reports could actually be not the memories of the past lives of our souls, but the past assignments of our angels and somehow the knowledge is infused into our minds through our angels guiding and informing us? 35:25 – What do you think an alien grey meat would taste like, and would it a sin to eat one? 37:32 – If DNA haplogroups have proven all humans came from Africa roughly one hundred thousand years ago, why did God not choose an African man to create a Covenant with and likewise not choose to become incarnate with an African as Adam was? Wouldn't it have been most fitting as Jesus is the…

In this stream I host an open panel to discuss why people think men flock to and love the Eastern Orthodox Christian church. Make sure to check it out and let me know what you think. God bless Superchat Here https://streamlabs.com/churchoftheeternallogos Donochat Me: https://dono.chat/dono/dph Join this channel's YouTube Memberships: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH8JwgaHCkhdfERVkGbLl2g/join Intro Music Follow Keynan Here! https://linktr.ee/keynanrwils b-dibe's Bandcamp: https://b-dibe.bandcamp.com/ b-dibe's Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/b-dibe Thumbnails by iPAK: https://linktr.ee/ipak_arts Support COTEL with Crypto! Bitcoin: 3QNWpM2qLGfaZ2nUXNDRnwV21UUiaBKVsy Ethereum: 0x0b87E0494117C0adbC45F9F2c099489079d6F7Da Litecoin: MKATh5kwTdiZnPE5Ehr88Yg4KW99Zf7k8d If you enjoy this production, feel compelled, or appreciate my other videos, please support me through my website memberships (www.davidpatrickharry.com) or donate directly by PayPal or crypto! Any contribution would be greatly appreciated. Thank you Logos Subscription Membership: http://davidpatrickharry.com/register/ Venmo: @cotel - https://account.venmo.com/u/cotel PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/eternallogos Donations: http://www.davidpatrickharry.com/donate/ PayPal: https://www.paypal.me/eternallogos Website: http://www.davidpatrickharry.com Rokfin: https://rokfin.com/dpharry Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/COTEL Odysee: https://odysee.com/@ChurchoftheEternalLogos:d GAB: https://gab.com/dpharry Telegram: https://t.me/eternallogos Minds: https://www.minds.com/Dpharry Bitchute: https://www.bitchute.com/channel/W10R... DLive: https://dlive.tv/The_Eternal_Logos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dpharry/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/_dpharry

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - Pope Francis called the destruction of the environment “an offense against God” in a message given to the participants in the UN climate summit on Saturday. The keynote address that the pope had intended to give in person at the COP28 conference was distributed to the attendees in Dubai, where Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin read a shortened version of the pope's speech to the assembly on December 2. Pope Francis, who turns 87 in two weeks, canceled his scheduled trip to the United Arab Emirates days before the climate summit at the request of his doctors after coming down with a flu infection that left him with breathing difficulties and acute bronchitis. Care for creation has been an important theme in Francis' pontificate. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256165/pope-francis-to-cop28-environmental-destruction-is-an-offense-against-god Pope Francis for the second consecutive Sunday was assisted by an aide in praying the Angelus as he continues to recover from an acute bronchial infection. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256167/pope-francis-on-first-sunday-of-advent-im-improving-but-my-voice-still-doesnt-work At least three people were killed and others injured Sunday morning in an explosion during a Mass held in a university gymnasium in the southern Philippines. Authorities are investigating whether pro-Islamic State militants were responsible for the blast, which set off a panic on the campus of Mindanao State University in Marawi on the island of Mindanao. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/256166/philippine-catholic-mass-explosion-three-killed Today, the Church celebrates Saint John of Damascus. Eastern Orthodox Christians and Eastern Catholics, whose tradition has been particularly shaped by his insights, celebrate the saint's feast on the same day as the Roman Catholic Church. Among Eastern Christians, John is best known for his defense of Christian sacred art, particularly in the form of icons. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-john-of-damascus-407

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - A terminally ill British infant has been given more time to live after a court on Thursday gave her family permission to appeal a judge's decision mandating where her life support can be removed. According to a Christian advocacy group, the courts may also consider the possibility of allowing the family to take the child to Italy for treatment at a Vatican-run hospital. Indi Gregory, born in February, suffers from a rare degenerative mitochondrial disease and has been receiving life-sustaining treatment on a ventilator at the Queen's Medical Centre in Nottingham, England. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255960/british-infant-indi-gregory-given-more-time-to-live-as-judge-allows-family-to-appeal West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin, the last centrist Catholic Democrat in the US Senate, announced Thursday he isn't running for reelection next year. Manchin's decision to leave the US Senate may hurt the Democrats' chances of keeping control of it in 2024. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255967/democratic-sen-joe-manchin-a-centrist-catholic-wont-seek-reelection The Vatican has released the schedule for Pope Francis' trip to Dubai in early December to attend the COP28 climate conference. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255958/vatican-releases-schedule-for-pope-francis-trip-to-dubai-in-december Pope Francis lamented the innocent deaths in Israel and Palestine during a meeting Thursday with a Catholic order of knighthood that supports the Holy Land. Francis said he is spiritually united with the leaders of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem as they are meeting in Rome this week. Also known as the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, the order is a lay institution under the protection of the Holy See whose first mention in historical records dates to 1336. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255959/pope-francis-laments-innocent-dead-in-holy-land-conflict Today, the Church celebrates the fifth-century Pope Saint Leo I, known as “Saint Leo the Great,” whose involvement in the fourth ecumenical council helped prevent the spread of error on Christ's divine and human natures. Saint Leo intervened for the safety of the Church in the West as well, persuading Attila the Hun to turn back from Rome. Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians also maintain a devotion to the memory of Pope Saint Leo the Great. Churches of the Byzantine tradition celebrate his feast day on February 18. He died on November 10, 461. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIV in 1754. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/pope-st-leo-the-great-651

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - Today, Catholics are invited to take part in a day of prayer and fasting for peace and reconciliation in the Holy Land, as war continues to devastate that region. The day of prayer comes amid the second week of war between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas, the latter of which launched a surprise attack on Israel October 7, which resulted in the deaths of 1,300 Israelis and international civilians. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255703/us-bishops-urge-faithful-to-join-in-day-of-prayer-and-fasting-for-peace-in-holy-land Catholic Relief Services on Saturday called for “immediate humanitarian access” in the Gaza Strip as the war between Israel and the terrorist group Hamas continues to unfold after Hamas' surprise attack on Israel earlier this month. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255701/catholic-relief-services-calls-for-immediate-humanitarian-access-to-gaza-strip The bishop of Arras, France, Olivier Leborgne, condemned the murder of a teacher in an Islamist terrorist attack in which two other people were seriously wounded. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255704/islamist-kills-teacher-at-french-high-school-bishop-condemns-the-terrorist-attack The latest full season of the hit Christian series “The Chosen” will be shown exclusively in theaters before its release on streaming services. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255705/the-chosen-announces-season-4-theatrical-release-new-trailer Today the Church celebrates the early Church Father, bishop, and martyr Saint Ignatius of Antioch, whose writings attest to the sacramental and hierarchical nature of the Church from its earliest days. Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate his memory on December 20. Born in Syria in the middle of the first century AD, Ignatius is said to have been personally instructed – along with another future martyr, Saint Polycarp – by the Apostle Saint John. When Ignatius became the Bishop of Antioch around the year 70, he assumed leadership of a local church that was, according to tradition, first led by Saint Peter before his move to Rome. Although Saint Peter transmitted his Papal primacy to the bishops of Rome rather than Antioch, the city played an important role in the life of the early Church. Located in present-day Turkey, it was a chief city of the Roman Empire, and was also the location where the believers in Jesus' teachings and his resurrection were first called “Christians.” Saint Ignatius of Antioch bore witness to Christ publicly for the last time in Rome's Flavian Amphitheater, where he was mauled to death by lions. “I am the wheat of the Lord,” he had declared, before facing them. “I must be ground by the teeth of these beasts to be made the pure bread of Christ.” https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-ignatius-of-antioch-396

Despite being the second largest Christian communion globally, Eastern Orthodox Theology is unknown or misunderstood for most people living in the West. When Hank Hanegraaff joined the Eastern Orthodox Church, many were left wondering what it is that Eastern Orthodox Christians actually believe.In A Basic Guide to Eastern Orthodox Theology: Introducing Beliefs and Practices, Dr. Eve Tibbs has written the preeminent resource for a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the beliefs and practices of the Eastern Orthodox Church for Western readers. Tibbs has devoted her career to translating the Orthodox faith to an evangelical audience and has over twenty years of experience teaching this material to students. She joins Hanegraaff to discuss the basic ideas of Eastern Orthodox Christianity—from its origins at Pentecost to the present day.To learn more about receiving A Basic Guide to Eastern Orthodox Theology: Introducing Beliefs and Practices for your partnering gift please click here.Topics discussed include: Orthodox Christianity is a well-kept secret in the West (4:50); the three distinct branches of Christianity that came as a result of schism (7:10); the emphasis on mystery in Eastern Orthodoxy (10:10); the Orthodox term to describe Salvation—Theosis (11:45); what is Apophatic (negative) theology? (17:15); the communal importance of the Church and the centrality of the Eucharist (22:30); how Orthodox architecture corresponds to Orthodox Theology (26:35); what is the significance of liturgy? (28:25); what does it mean to be made in the image AND likeness of God? (31:25); the interrelated nature of Holy Tradition and Holy Scripture (33:40); What is the Septuagint? (39:45); seeing the gospel—the significance reality of icons (43:30); Acts 15 shows the importance of a conciliar approach—the importance of the seven ecumenical councils (46:05); did we inherit Adam's guilt? an Orthodox perspective on the fall of man (42:45); Mary the Mother of God, the Immaculate Conception and inherited guilt (56:10); the role of women in the Church (1:02:50); the sin of fratricide that caused the split between the Eastern and Western Christian Church (1:08:50); the meaning and importance of being Trinitarian (1:14:35); the significance of Confession in the Orthodox Church and how it compares to the practice in the Roman Catholic Church (1:16:25); infant baptism in the Orthodox Church—is baptism a gift? (1:19:45); the intentional meaning of the architecture and environment in the Orthodox Church (1:22:25); will the 21st century be the Orthodox Century? (1:26:25). Listen to Hank's podcast and follow Hank off the grid where he is joined by some of the brightest minds discussing topics you care about. Get equipped to be a cultural change agent.Archived episodes are on our Website and available at the additional channels listed below.You can help spread the word about Hank Unplugged by giving us a rating and review from the other channels we are listed on.

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/lgbtq-studies

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/eastern-european-studies

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sex is a difficult issue for contemporary Christians, but the past decade has witnessed a newfound openness regarding the topic among Eastern Orthodox Christians. Both the theological trajectory and the historical circumstances of the Orthodox Church differ radically from those of other Christian denominations that have already developed robust and creative reflections on sexuality and sexual diversity. Within its unique history, theology, and tradition, Orthodox Christianity holds rich resources for engaging challenging questions of sexuality in new and responsive ways. What is at stake in questions of sexuality in the Orthodox tradition? What sources and theological convictions can uniquely shape Orthodox understandings of sexuality? Orthodox Tradition and Human Sexuality (Fordham UP, 2022) aims to create an agora for discussing sex, and not least the sexualities that are often thought of as untraditional in Orthodox contexts. Through fifteen distinct chapters, written by leading scholars and theologians, this book offers a developed treatment of sexuality in the Orthodox Christian world by approaching the subject from scriptural, patristic, theological, historical, and sociological perspectives. Chapters devoted to practical and pastoral insights, as well as reflections on specific cultural contexts, engage the human realities of sexual diversity and Christian life. From re-thinking scripture to developing theologies of sex, from eschatological views of eros to re-evaluations of the Orthodox responses to science, this book offers new thinking on pressing, present-day issues and initiates conversations about homosexuality and sexual diversity within Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Thomas Arentzen is a researcher in the Department of Linguistics and Philology at the University of Uppsala. Dr. Ashley Purpura is director of the Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies program and Associate Professor of Religious Studies Purdue University. Dr. Aristotle Papanikolau is Professor of Theology and Archbishop Demetrios Chair in Orthodox Theology and Culture and Co-Director of the Orthodox Christian Studies Center at Fordham University. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

Saint John the Forerunner is how Eastern Orthodox Christians commonly refer to Saint John the Baptist. 

What Are You Looking For? Many people go through life not knowing what they are truly looking for. They drift from one career path to another, one social group to another, even testing different spiritualities trying to find the right fit. Donna Garrett writes this week's RC Spirituality Weekly Message. 3:37 Sunrise Stroll & Chat at the Sea of Galilee with the Whole World! Fr Eamon Kelly, LC, writes, "Where do you find atheists, agnostics, Protestants of all kinds, together with Eastern Orthodox Christians, Jews, Muslims, and others strolling and scrolling together with a Catholic priest, resonating together and often offering to pray for each other when special needs arise for any of those involved? It's virtual, but it is real!" 11:20 A Life-Changing Experience “From the first sunrise at Magdala to the last sunset on the spectacular roof of Notre Dame Hotel in Jerusalem, every step of the way brought our relationship with the Lord deeper, by walking in His footsteps.” Gina and Bill O'Malley write about their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

It's Tuesday, April 11th, A.D. 2023. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard at www.TheWorldview.com.  I'm Adam McManus.  (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Kevin Swanson Calgary police arrest pastor 3rd time for protesting drag queens for kids Fox News.com carried a 3 minute and 11 second video of a Christian pastor in Calgary, Alberta arrested by police.  The pastor was speaking against the public flaunting of transvestism in the presence of children, now commonly known as “drag queen story time.”  The Calgary police registered their support of drag queen story time in the arrest, and charged Pastor Derek Reimer of Mission 7 Ministries with what they called a “hate crime.”  The pastor spent Easter weekend behind bars, reports RebelNews.  Canadian Christians objected to the outrageous arrest while it was taking place. Listen. FEMALE: “This is injustice.  You guys don't have children? We're trying to protect our children's innocence. You know that, right? Do you guys not have children?” MALE #1: “No, they're just following orders. Just following orders.” MALE #2: “Shame on you!” (crosstalk) FEMALE: “Then step out of the orders you're given. Have conviction in your heart.” MALE #2: “You guys are acting like Nazis, Gestapo. Shame on you! Why aren't you protecting our children from pedophiles?” MALE #3: “The Nazis in Germany in World War Two.” MALE #2:”Why aren't you guys trying to arrest rapists and gangsters and drug dealers and pedophiles?” MALE #3: “This is ridiculous. This is Nazi Germany all over again.” MALE #2: “Come on. Wake up. Stand for freedom. We the people.” MALE #1: “No. Look at them. S.S. Gestapo.” In lieu of the protests against the transvestite shows in libraries across Alberta, the Calgary City Council  issued what they called “the Safe and Inclusive Access Bylaw.” The measure disallowed any protests within 100 meters of a recreation facility or library entrance.   Also, the pastor has been instructed by the courts not to communicate with any “self-identified LGBTQ people.”  Keep in mind Proverbs 29:27 today. “An unjust man is an abomination to the righteous, And one whose way is upright is an abomination to the wicked.” Louisville, Kentucky mass killing Another mass killing occurred in a Louisville, Kentucky bank yesterday resulting in five fatalities, reports ABC News. That's the fifth worst killing this year so far in the United States. Defined as violent attacks involving more than one victim, Wikipedia lists 27 mass shootings in the last two weeks, and 134 since the beginning of the year. The Wikipedia list includes associated news footnotes.  Violent crime is actually down in America Yet, the big picture on violent crime in the US is still not as bad as it was in the early 1990s.   The Council on Criminal Justice released a study earlier this year indicating that the number of homicides dropped in 2022, in all about 4% lower than it was in 2021. The study noted that there were “242 fewer murders in the 27 cities that publicly report monthly homicide data.  The national homicide rate remained 34% higher than in 2019, the year before the pandemic began, and about half the historical nationwide peaks in 1980 and 1991.” Also, the number of gun assaults dropped by 7% in 2022.  Chinese war games with Taiwan China's People's Liberation Army spent the weekend conducting war games around Taiwan. The drill included 91 aircraft and 12 military ships, reports TaiwanNews.com.  Greece considers greenlighting homosexual faux marriage The Associated Press reports that the upcoming election in Greece will hinge on the question of homosexual faux-marriage.   Alexis Tsipras, who heads the main left-wing opposition party, has announced that if elected, he will “legalize same sex marriage with full parental rights.” This would make Greece the first country identified by the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith to oppose God's law in this form.  30 countries approve homosexual faux marriage today Pew Research has listed 30 countries that have gone the distance by approving homosexual faux marriage. This includes most apostate Protestant countries as well as Western Europe, North America, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Taiwan, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Ecuador, and parts of Mexico.  The Scriptures are clear on matters like homosexuality and abortion. Leviticus 18:21-22 says, “You shall not let any of your descendants pass through the fire to Molech, nor shall you profane the name of your God: I am the Lord. You shall not lie with a male as with a woman. It is an abomination.” Idaho bans abortion trafficking of minors Idaho Republican Governor Brad Little signed a bill which bans abortion trafficking of minors in the state, reports LifeNews.com. Adults assisting an underage girl with getting an abortion, without parental consent, face two to five years in prison.  Bob Jones University president and chairman resign South Carolina's FITS new source reports a dust-up in the leadership of Bob Jones University resulting in the resignation of the college's president Steve Pettit, and the Chairman of the Board, John Lewis. The news report indicates that the controversy surrounds  “troubling financial numbers” and a “Title IX inquiry or investigation.”   Steve Pettit had served as president of the conservative Christian university for nine years.  Gen X parents spending retirement on adult children A Bankrate survey has found that about half of Gen X parents are compromising their retirement funds to support their adult children.   Only 38% of Baby Boomer parents have done the same.  In total, 68% of parents have made a financial sacrifice to help their adult kids. America did not celebrate Easter Monday And finally, Eastern Monday was a holiday for almost every Western nation, except the United States.   Most of Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and about half of Africa took the day off in commemoration of Christ's resurrection.  But not the United States.  Close And that's The Worldview in 5 Minutes on this Tuesday, April 11th in the year of our Lord 2023. Subscribe by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - Carlos Medina, the suspect in the murder of Los Angeles Auxiliary Bishop David O'Connell, was arraigned in state court Wednesday and formally charged with one count of murder and a special allegation that he personally used a firearm. O'Connell was found dead with “at least” one gunshot wound to his upper body on February 18 in his bedroom at his Hacienda Heights home, Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna said in a Monday press conference. News of O'Connell's death shocked the nation and rocked the local and international Catholic community. Offering remarks at Monday's press conference, Los Angeles Archbishop José Gomez broke into tears and struggled to complete his brief comments on Bishop O'Connell. “Out of his love for God, he served this city for more than 40 years,” Gomez said. “Every day he worked to show compassion to the poor, to the homeless, to the immigrant, and to all those living on society's margins. He was a good priest and a good bishop and a man of peace, and we are very sad to lose him,” Gomez said. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/253716/housekeeper-s-husband-officially-charged-in-murder-of-la-auxiliary-bishop-o-connell Today, the Church celebrates Saint Polycarp of Smyrna, a disciple of the apostle and evangelist St. John. Polycarp is celebrated on the same date by Eastern Orthodox Christians, who also honor him as a Saint. According to tradition, Polycarp was martyred by Roman authorities by being stabbed to death, but only after no flames touched his body during an attempt to burn him alive. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-polycarp-of-smyrna-156

Bobby Maddex interviews author Susan Cushman about her life and her latest book, Pilgrim Interrupted. Pilgrim Interrupted is a collection of 35 essays, 3 poems, and 5 excerpts from Susan's novels and short stories. Coming of age during the turbulent 1960s in Jackson, Mississippi; marrying young and adopting three children; leaving the Presbyterian Church of her childhood for the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith in 1987; Susan finally began to chronicle her journey in the early 2000s. Pilgrim Interrupted is her eighth book. Susan's Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Cushman/e/B00T3OPP18/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1 Susan's Personal Website: https://susancushman.com

Bobby Maddex interviews author Susan Cushman about her life and her latest book, Pilgrim Interrupted. Pilgrim Interrupted is a collection of 35 essays, 3 poems, and 5 excerpts from Susan's novels and short stories. Coming of age during the turbulent 1960s in Jackson, Mississippi; marrying young and adopting three children; leaving the Presbyterian Church of her childhood for the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith in 1987; Susan finally began to chronicle her journey in the early 2000s. Pilgrim Interrupted is her eighth book. Susan's Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Cushman/e/B00T3OPP18/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1 Susan's Personal Website: https://susancushman.com

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - The Carmelite nuns in Cuba announced that thanks to the donations of wheat flour they have received in recent days, they will again be able to make the Communion hosts to supply the island's churches. In a November 14 statement, the Discalced Carmelite Sisters of Havana expressed their joy for having “experienced once again that the barque of the Church is the Lord who leads it.” The Monastery of the Discalced Carmelites of Saint Teresa in the Cuban capital had informed all the dioceses November 2 that it could no longer produce any more hosts because it had run out of wheat flour, a product that has been in short supply for months in the island. Just days later, Father José Luis Pueyo of the Diocese of Villa Clara told the newspaper catorcemedio that they would have to break their remaining hosts into several pieces in order to provide for the faithful. The Carmelite sisters said that “the one who multiplied the loaves has shown his power with the multiplication of the flour.” https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252844/the-church-in-cuba-will-once-again-have-communion-hosts-thanks-to-donations-of-flour Organizers of the 2024 National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis have announced plans for a major pilgrimage to the event — and a big budget cut. The Congress, which is the culmination of the National Eucharistic Revival — a three-year initiative by the U.S. bishops to inspire Eucharist belief — is expected to draw some 80,000 people. Despite the budget being cut almost in half from an original $28 million estimate, the congress itself isn't being scaled down, a staff member working on the initiative told CNA. Pilgrims will depart from four different locations, he said: one in the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas; in the Archdiocese of Hartford, Connecticut, at the site of the tomb of Blessed Michael McGivney, the founder of the Knights of Columbus; in San Francisco at the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption; and a fourth site in Crookston. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252848/organizers-of-national-eucharistic-congress-announce-pilgrimage-plans-major-budget-cut The spiritual leader of the world's Eastern Orthodox Christians has confirmed his support for finding a common date to celebrate Easter, meaning Catholics and Orthodox could one day be celebrating the Resurrection of Jesus Christ at the same time. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople said this week that conversations are underway between Church representatives to come to an agreement. The Catholic president of the Pontifical Council for Christian Unity, Cardinal Kurt Koch, has supported the suggestion that Catholics and Orthodox work to agree on a common date to celebrate Easter. The eastern patriarch has said he supports a common date for Easter to be set for the year 2025. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252851/why-catholics-and-orthodox-might-once-again-celebrate-easter-on-the-same-date Today, the Church celebrates Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne. From the young age of eight, Rose had a desire to evangelize in the Americas, sparked by hearing a Jesuit missionary speak of his work there. She received a basic education at home from tutors, and religious education from her mother. Despite the opposition of her family, in 1804 she joined the Society of the Sacred Heart, which sent her to the United States in 1818. From the convent and school she founded at Saint Charles, Missouri, later moved to Florissant, Missouri, she traveled over a wide area, founding schools for girls, doing charitable work, and finally ministering to Native Americans. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-rose-philippine-duchesne-57

Note: This podcast includes content suitable for adult audiences; listener discretion is advised. Giacomo was a great conversation partner for building understanding across differences and investigating a theology of same-sex love. We encourage listeners to listen closely to try to understand one Side A perspective more carefully, and to think about how people from a Side B perspective might engage with those whom they have distinct disagreements but also surprising similarities. Giacomo Sanfilippo is an Orthodox Christian and the founding editor of the blog Orthodoxy in Dialogue, where he has become the Orthodox Church's most well known LGBTQ advocate. Largely influenced by his work on Father Pavel Florensky, Giacomo's perspective is grounded in an ascetic view of sexuality and same-sex love, whereby Christians are made more like God through acts of self-sacrifice and discipline.  Based on his work at Orthodoxy in Dialogue, we wanted to hear more about how he comes to his theology of sexuality, particularly as embedded in the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Check out our response to Giacomo and other Side A guests in episode #23 - ⁠Side B Response to Side A: Our 2022 Guests ⁠ __________ Timestamps(1:01) Introducing Giacomo (5:21) Updated Note: Clarification of Differences (6:46) Orthodox marriage vs same-sex relationships (12:41) What has theologically informed your understanding of same-sex love? (25:25) Giacomo's story (37:49) Becoming more public in the Christian sexuality conversation (44:22) How do you integrate your understanding of same-sex love with the Orthodox church's teaching around marriage? (49:13) Asceticism in sexuality: a monogamous vision for same-sex (and heterosexual) couples (54:47) If there's no sex in heaven… (58:51) Do people who are celibate miss out on a “need”? (1:19:13) The myth of being “fully satisfied” in a relationship (1:28:46) David and TJ on Side B perceptions of queerness __________ Links, References, and TermsOrthodoxy in Dialogue website: orthodoxyindialogue.com Article: “Conjugal Friendship” publicorthodoxy.org/2017/05/02/conjugal-friendship/ Asceticism (you can look this up many places. We'll offer just one relevant link: https://orthodoxwiki.org/Asceticism) Antinomy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antinomy Pavel Florensky: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pavel_Florensky __________ Share feedback or questions on our website podpage.com/communion-shalom or emailing us at communionandshalom@gmail.com. If you like this podcast, please consider supporting us on Patreon: patreon.com/communionandshalom Follow us on Instagram: @communionandshalom

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - Pope Francis announced on Sunday that the Synod on Synodality will be extended to 2024. Speaking in his Angelus address on October 16, the pope shared his decision to divide the Synod of Bishops into two sessions that will meet in Rome in October 2023 and October 2024. Pope Francis explained that he made the decision “in order to have a more relaxed period of discernment.” “The fruits of the synodal process under way are many, but so that they might come to full maturity, it is necessary not to be in a rush,” Francis said. The two sessions of the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops will take place from October 4 to 29, 2023, and in October 2024, bringing together bishops from across the world to discuss and prepare a document to counsel the pope. Pope Francis launched the Synod on Synodality in October 2021 as a worldwide undertaking during which Catholics were encouraged to submit feedback to their local dioceses. According to a report from the U.S. bishops' conference, about 700,000 people participated in the diocesan phase of the synod in the U.S. out of 66.8 million Catholics in the country. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252560/pope-francis-announces-decision-to-extend-synod-on-synodality-to-2024 Today the Church honors the early Church Father, bishop, and martyr Saint Ignatius of Antioch, whose writings attest to the sacramental and hierarchical nature of the Church from its earliest days. Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate his memory on December 20. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-ignatius-of-antioch-396

Join us as we (David, TJ, and our friends Will and Michelle—who are asexual/queer) explore ideas of what “queerness” means. While we can't come to one single definition, we hit on a kaleidoscope of topics as we explore the weirdness inherent in the word “queer,” the queering influence of Christianity, queerness and the arts, and ontological questions about queer sexual orientation. — A Few Quick Definitions for Your Optional Reference asexuality: a lack of sexual attraction or desire for sexual activity (see Wikipedia) ontology: the philosophical study of the nature of being, what it means to be; the nature of inherent personhood. autognosis: self-knowledge; the understanding of one's own psychodynamics, character, nature, abilities, etc. theosis: the process of humans becoming more like God (this theological concept is prominent in particular in Eastern Orthodox Christian theology) __________ Timestamps Conversation with Michelle and Will: 1:30 - Introductions 3:50 - Queer as a neutral word for “weird” 9:25 - Early and medieval Christianity—Origen, consecrated virgins, Franciscans, and Anchorites 16:00 - Queer theory—destruction of cultural norms, avoiding oppression 18:10 - Queerness, the arts, and avoiding “the game” (TJ's definition of “queer” at 20:15: “a special affinity for people of the same sex”) 23:50 - Self knowledge (“autognosis”): becoming more ourselves, more like Christ 29:00 - Self creation: identity narcissism in our current culture 30:50 - Michelle on art that knows oneself, community, and God 33:10 - TJ on difficulties with ontology and gender norms Further Thoughts from David and TJ: 38:35 - Ontology: queerness as inherent vs. queerness as essence (i.e., an established trait vs a core, created good) 42:10 - Defining queer: “same-sex affinity” vs. “challenging dominant cultural norms” 49:15 - On the social construction of (queer) identity categories 55:15 - Why “queer” should not be synonymous with “broken” __________ Links and References “S04E10 | Collin, Michelle, & Will on Being Ace (w/ Grant)” (Life on Side B podcast) Article: “Is Theatre Really Queer?” Book: On the Incarnation by Athanasius (read online) __________ Share feedback or questions on our website podpage.com/communion-shalom or emailing us at communionandshalom@gmail.com. If you like this podcast, please consider supporting us on Patreon: patreon.com/communionandshalom

My guest Jenny worked at an evangelical church and experienced spiritual manipulation and abuse. She discusses how someone can tell it's time to leave their church and what it's like for her now as an Eastern Orthodox Christian.

What is the so-called "psychological analogy" and what is its role in Trinitarian theology? What is the filioque? Why should we affirm the filioque? Is there a path forward for discussing this issue with Eastern Orthodox Christians? Fr. Thomas Joseph White O.P. joins the podcast to discuss these topics. The Classical Theism Podcast aims to defend Catholic Christian ideas in conversation. With the help of various guests, I defend three pillars of the Catholic Christian worldview: (1) the God of classical theism exists, (2) Jesus is our Messiah and Lord, and (3) He founded the Catholic Church. We place a strong emphasis on the first pillar, defending classical theism, drawing upon the work of Thomistic philosopher Dr. Edward Feser and many others. John DeRosa BOOK (bulk deal): One Less God Than You: How to Answer the Slogans, Cliches, and Fallacies that Atheists Use to Challenge Your Faith by John DeRosa BOOK (on Amazon): One Less God Than You by John DeRosa SUPPORT: Patreon page SUPPORT: One-time donations

What is the Magisterium? How should we argue for the magisterium as Catholics? What should we keep in mind for conversations with Protestants about the magisterium? How will conversations with Eastern Orthodox Christians differ? Also, what should we think about the possibility of magisterial reversals? Michael Lofton joins us to discuss these topics. The Classical Theism Podcast aims to defend Catholic Christian ideas in conversation. With the help of various guests, I defend three pillars of the Catholic Christian worldview: (1) the God of classical theism exists, (2) Jesus is our Messiah and Lord, and (3) He founded the Catholic Church. We place a strong emphasis on the first pillar, defending classical theism, drawing upon the work of Thomistic philosopher Dr. Edward Feser and many others.   John DeRosa www.classicaltheism.com/support   Support the show: Check out my book One Less God Than You: How to Answer the Slogans, Cliches, and Fallacies that Atheists Use to Challenge Your Faith >> www.classicaltheism.com/newbook   Support on Patreon to help keep the podcast going and to allow me to produce even more quality content: www.classicaltheism.com/support

Sometimes Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christians claim that Protestantism does not have a positive identity, or a core identity that unites all Protestants. Here I offer a response, drawing from the vision of Philip Schaff. Truth Unites is a mixture of apologetics and theology, with an irenic focus. Gavin Ortlund (PhD, Fuller Theological Seminary) serves as senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Ojai. SUPPORT: Become a patron: https://www.patreon.com/truthunites One time donation: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/truthunites FOLLOW: Twitter: https://twitter.com/gavinortlund Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TruthUnitesPage/ Website: https://gavinortlund.com/

Carl Waitz and Theresa Clement Tisdale offer to us a complex and scholarly text in their new book: Lacanian Psychoanalysis and Eastern Orthodox Christian Anthropology in Dialogue (Routledge, 2021). Psychoanalyst Marilyn Charles says of this text, in today's world, we need faith, but one that is grounded in the essential mysteries that mark the human journey. In this volume, Waitz and Tisdale make a plea for the place of the inexplicable in both psychoanalysis and religion, inviting a reading of each that advocates for, not knowledge, but rather a learning that can continue to enrich our lives and spirits rather than closing down possibilities. For those attempting to move beyond pleasure and fear towards an ethic of personal responsibility, this is an important volume. This book vigorously engages Lacan with a spiritual tradition that has yet to be thoroughly addressed within psychoanalytic literature―the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Waitz and Tisdale seek to offer the reader a unique engagement with a faith system that highlights and extends analytic thinking. For those in formation within the Orthodox tradition, this book brings psychoanalytic insights to bear on matters of faith that may at times seem opaque or difficult to understand. Ultimately, the authors seek to elicit in the reader the reflective and contemplative posture of Orthodoxy, as well as the listening ear of analysis, while considering the human subject. Roy Barsness is a Clinical Psychoanalytic Psychologist, Founder and Executive Director of the Post-Graduate Program in Relationally-Focused Psychodynamic Therapy; Professor at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology and have been in clinical practice for 30+ years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychoanalysis

Carl Waitz and Theresa Clement Tisdale offer to us a complex and scholarly text in their new book: Lacanian Psychoanalysis and Eastern Orthodox Christian Anthropology in Dialogue (Routledge, 2021). Psychoanalyst Marilyn Charles says of this text, in today's world, we need faith, but one that is grounded in the essential mysteries that mark the human journey. In this volume, Waitz and Tisdale make a plea for the place of the inexplicable in both psychoanalysis and religion, inviting a reading of each that advocates for, not knowledge, but rather a learning that can continue to enrich our lives and spirits rather than closing down possibilities. For those attempting to move beyond pleasure and fear towards an ethic of personal responsibility, this is an important volume. This book vigorously engages Lacan with a spiritual tradition that has yet to be thoroughly addressed within psychoanalytic literature―the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Waitz and Tisdale seek to offer the reader a unique engagement with a faith system that highlights and extends analytic thinking. For those in formation within the Orthodox tradition, this book brings psychoanalytic insights to bear on matters of faith that may at times seem opaque or difficult to understand. Ultimately, the authors seek to elicit in the reader the reflective and contemplative posture of Orthodoxy, as well as the listening ear of analysis, while considering the human subject. Roy Barsness is a Clinical Psychoanalytic Psychologist, Founder and Executive Director of the Post-Graduate Program in Relationally-Focused Psychodynamic Therapy; Professor at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology and have been in clinical practice for 30+ years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Carl Waitz and Theresa Clement Tisdale offer to us a complex and scholarly text in their new book: Lacanian Psychoanalysis and Eastern Orthodox Christian Anthropology in Dialogue (Routledge, 2021). Psychoanalyst Marilyn Charles says of this text, in today's world, we need faith, but one that is grounded in the essential mysteries that mark the human journey. In this volume, Waitz and Tisdale make a plea for the place of the inexplicable in both psychoanalysis and religion, inviting a reading of each that advocates for, not knowledge, but rather a learning that can continue to enrich our lives and spirits rather than closing down possibilities. For those attempting to move beyond pleasure and fear towards an ethic of personal responsibility, this is an important volume. This book vigorously engages Lacan with a spiritual tradition that has yet to be thoroughly addressed within psychoanalytic literature―the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Waitz and Tisdale seek to offer the reader a unique engagement with a faith system that highlights and extends analytic thinking. For those in formation within the Orthodox tradition, this book brings psychoanalytic insights to bear on matters of faith that may at times seem opaque or difficult to understand. Ultimately, the authors seek to elicit in the reader the reflective and contemplative posture of Orthodoxy, as well as the listening ear of analysis, while considering the human subject. Roy Barsness is a Clinical Psychoanalytic Psychologist, Founder and Executive Director of the Post-Graduate Program in Relationally-Focused Psychodynamic Therapy; Professor at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology and have been in clinical practice for 30+ years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology

Carl Waitz and Theresa Clement Tisdale offer to us a complex and scholarly text in their new book: Lacanian Psychoanalysis and Eastern Orthodox Christian Anthropology in Dialogue (Routledge, 2021). Psychoanalyst Marilyn Charles says of this text, in today's world, we need faith, but one that is grounded in the essential mysteries that mark the human journey. In this volume, Waitz and Tisdale make a plea for the place of the inexplicable in both psychoanalysis and religion, inviting a reading of each that advocates for, not knowledge, but rather a learning that can continue to enrich our lives and spirits rather than closing down possibilities. For those attempting to move beyond pleasure and fear towards an ethic of personal responsibility, this is an important volume. This book vigorously engages Lacan with a spiritual tradition that has yet to be thoroughly addressed within psychoanalytic literature―the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Waitz and Tisdale seek to offer the reader a unique engagement with a faith system that highlights and extends analytic thinking. For those in formation within the Orthodox tradition, this book brings psychoanalytic insights to bear on matters of faith that may at times seem opaque or difficult to understand. Ultimately, the authors seek to elicit in the reader the reflective and contemplative posture of Orthodoxy, as well as the listening ear of analysis, while considering the human subject. Roy Barsness is a Clinical Psychoanalytic Psychologist, Founder and Executive Director of the Post-Graduate Program in Relationally-Focused Psychodynamic Therapy; Professor at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology and have been in clinical practice for 30+ years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/christian-studies

What is healthy sexuality? Hint - it's not always abstinence! Rhys approaches the conversation from the world of therapy, compulsive sexual behavior, sex/porn addiction. A major task in recovery from compulsive sexual behavior is figuring out healthy sexuality. Does this mean abstinence? Does this mean monogamy? Does this mean heteronormative sex? Or does it mean more mindfully engaging in what ever sexual behavior pattern you do? Gregg Webb approaches the conversation from the ongoing conversation between Side A and Side B same-sex attracted Christians. In this world, we encounter individuals weighing the balance between the pull of a traditional and conservative Christian sexual ethic, more modern and liberal interpretations of the ancient texts, and the very powerful experience of being sexual beings who experience bodies, attraction, and sex in non-normative ways. Both Rhys and Gregg also approach the question of healthy sexuality from within the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. We start with the question, why on earth would anyone NOT have as much sex as they can? In this, we begin to introduce and explore some of the different factors that drive people to seek mastery over their sexual desires, and why some of these reasons are quite beautiful and important. In this conversation, we reflect on our experiences of growing up queer in the church, surrounded by Purity Culture in its heyday, and an ancient tradition that openly celebrates monasticism and scetic labors. WE discuss the value of being strict with one's self, but also the value of moderation and compassion towards self and others. WE talk about the importance of being present with one's self and with others. This presence becomes impossible when given over to an obsession with satiation and gratification of sexdual desires, just as it becomes impossible when obsessed with laws, rules, and hyper and rigid control of one's inner desires. WE talk about abstinence and celibacy and their limits. WE talk about cautions and considerations in taking a very strict approach with one's self. We talk about, whatever our labor is, how important it is to do it in community. To learn how to support the podcast, please visit www.patreon.com/outercircle. Consider supporting this work with your dollars, but definitely rate, review, and share the show with a friend! Rhys can be found at www.newpatterncounseling.com and on instagram at @newpatterncounseling Gregg can be reached at @greggwebb on Twitter and his blog at https://eleisonblog.org/ #recovery #recoverywork #sobriety #addiction #community #orthodoxy #orthodoxchristianity #mentalhealth #therapy #counseling #outercircleinnerstillness #greggwebb #healthysexuality #sexuality #sideAsideB #samesexattraction #gay #queer #sexuality #sexualorientation #sexualsobriety #compulsivesexualbehavior #abstinence #celibacy

Happy Pascha! A Citizenship Quiz in Honor of Eastern Orthodox Christian Americans pdf: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/uscitizenpod/pascha-quiz.pdf  I wrote this quiz for several reasons. First, to honor Central/Eastern European-American Heritage. Second, to showcase the diversity in the American Christian community. Third, to celebrate Easter. In the past, Western Christians and the Eastern Orthodox have been divided by religion, history, and politics, but as Americans, we are united as one people, and this year, we are celebrating Easter on the same day. This is recording is an update of a 2017 podcast featuring Branka and her husband Tony, both of whom were from the former Yugoslavia by way of Canada. Branka was a longtime colleague who at the time worked as a Projects Coordinator for OUTREACH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NETWORK (otan.us) and had recently became a new US citizen. She then moved on to lead the Capital Adult Education Consortium. In late 2021, she and her family returned to Serbia where she continues to consult on Adult Education and digital literacy matters. Quiz answers: Colonists came to America for freedom. Freedom of religion is that you can practice any religion or not practice a religion. America bought the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803. The two parts of the US Congress are the Senate and the House of Representatives Dianne Feinstein is one of the two US senators from the state of California. Joe Biden is the current President of the United States.  Kamala Harris is the current Vice-President of the United States.  Gavin Newsom is the current Governor of California. The two major political parties are Democratic and Republican parties. The President's Cabinet advises the President. Ro Khanna is the US Representative of San Jose/Milpitas, California. Two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy are join a civic group and join a community group. EXTRA CREDIT: Listen to a great interview with Vlade Divac! StoryCorps: Vivek and Vlade: From New Arrivals To Kings http://www.capradio.org/articles/2015/12/08/vivek-and-vlade-from-new-arrivals-to-kings/  Former Sacramento Kings center and current general manager Vlade Divac is interviewed by his boss, majority owner Vivek Ranadive, in this StoryCorps segment. They talk a little basketball but mostly focus on their shared experience as immigrants.  

Many Christians from ancient traditions pray to saints for guidance and intercession with God. This practice dates back centuries, and is something that Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians regularly participate in. Why do they do this, and does praying to saints really do any good? We'll explore this topic in this episode of The Rugged Truth Podcast. Listen now! God's Truth can endure any attack and answer any question. It's rugged. Our grasp of God's Truth has to be just as rugged in a skeptical culture. On The Rugged Truth Podcast, Dr Bryan Fergus answers real questions that real people are asking about real life with God as he helps listeners develop a rugged faith. The Rugged Truth Podcast is committed to helping people develop a biblical worldview through in-depth analysis of how God's Word impacts our understanding of the issues of the day. Complex theological and doctrinal questions are answered with Scripture and common sense reasoning. The result is a firm grasp of God's truth that allows followers of Jesus to both comprehend and defend their faith in today's skeptical culture. About Dr Bryan Fergus Dr Bryan Fergus is driven by a passion to teach God's Word in clear and applicable ways and to train up the next generation of Christian pastors and leaders. He currently pursues his passion by serving as an Adjunct Professor at Phoenix Seminary, Calvary Chapel University, and Arizona Christian University. He is also the Lead Educator at The Rugged Truth. Bryan Fergus served in vocational pastoral ministry for 32 years. He has also been teaching courses on the Bible, theology, ancient near eastern history and pastoral leadership at Christian universities and seminaries on four continents for the past 21 years. Dr Fergus earned his Doctor of Ministry degree through Phoenix Seminary, writing a dissertation entitled The Intersection of Analytic Theology and Catechesis. ​ He is a voracious reader and writer with new book projects and online content coming out often and regularly. His YouTube channel is simply called Dr Bryan Fergus.  Piano Rock Instrumental by Hyde - Free Instrumentals | https://soundcloud.com/davidhydemusicMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

Today we begin Ecumenism Month, speaking to Lewis fans from diverse religious traditions. We begin by speaking to an Eastern Orthodox Christian, Dr. Edith M. Huphrey.

On today's show, the archpriest of an Eastern Orthodox Christian church in Fort Smith reflects on the the worsening Russian war on Ukraine. Plus, the passion of bringing a story you believe in to the screen, pinball's latest resurgence, and much more.

Second Sunday of Lent Sunday, March 13, 2022 Glen Ridge Congregational Church Ask Me Anything – Where do you turn to for comfort in scripture? – What are the five different names for the lake in Galilee? – Who are the Eastern Orthodox Christians we're hearing about in Ukraine? – What are the gnostic gospels?

Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians tell Protestants that their Bibles are incomplete with just 66 books. Is the Apocrypha God's word? Are there historical errors and contradictions in these extra books? Should they be in the Bible? Did Catholics really give us the Bible? Find out now! #bible #apocrypha #biblecanon #apologetics #scripture

A daily news briefing from Catholic News Agency, powered by artificial intelligence. Ask your smart speaker to play “Catholic News,” or listen every morning wherever you get podcasts. www.catholicnewsagency.com - Pope Francis has called for people to fast for peace on March 2, Ash Wednesday, amid mounting tensions in Ukraine and the threat of war. The pope said, quote, “I would like all those who have the political responsibility to make a serious examination of conscience before God, who is the God of peace and not of war … He wants us to be brothers and not enemies. I pray that all parties involved will refrain from any action that will cause even more suffering for people, destabilizing coexistence among nations and undermining international law.” https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250456/ukraine-crisis-pope-francis-calls-for-global-day-of-fasting-for-peace-on-ash-wednesday The leader of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church said on Tuesday that “all of humanity has been placed in danger” by Russia's decision to recognize the breakaway Ukrainian regions of Lugansk and Donetsk as independent entities. Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk denounced Russia's move as creating, quote, “serious challenges and threats for the entire international community and for international law.” Shevchuk appealed to people of goodwill “not ignore the suffering of the Ukrainian people, brought on by Russian military aggression.” https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250457/major-archbishop-russia-s-east-ukraine-move-places-all-of-humanity-in-danger Bishop Gustavo Oscar Zanchetta has denied all charges of alleged sexual abuse of two former seminarians, during the first hearing of his civil trial. The Argentine bishop was, in 2017, appointed by Pope Francis to a specially created position overseeing the Vatican's real estate holdings and other sovereign assets. In addition to the charges of sexual abuse, Bishop Zanchetta has been charged with financial misconduct. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/250452/bishop-zanchetta-pleads-not-guilty-at-civil-trial-for-sex-abuse-in-argentina Today, the Church celebrates Saint Polycarp of Smyrna, a disciple of the apostle and evangelist St. John. Polycarp is celebrated on the same date by Eastern Orthodox Christians, who also honor him as a Saint. According to tradition, Polycarp was martyred by Roman authorities by being stabbed to death, but only after no flames touched his body during an attempt to burn him alive. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-polycarp-of-smyrna-156

The Way of the Pilgrim part 2 is a continuation from episode 11. It is an Eastern Orthodox Christian classic tale of the Jesus Prayer. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/ned-jabbar/message

Fr. Dr. Maurice Nkem Emelu, Ph.D., Discusses Daily Advent Devotionals with 'An Encounter: A Daily Discovery in Divine Word, Volume 1.' Fr. Dr. Maurice Nkem Emelu, Ph.D., an Assistant Professor of digital media and communication at John Carroll University discusses daily Advent devotional companion, 'An Encounter: A Daily Discovery in Divine Word, Volume 1.' Originally from West Africa, Fr. Maurice Nkem Emelu, Ph.D. has written a companion guide for Catholic daily devotionals during the Advent Season as we lead into Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. During these struggling times that the world has been facing the last two years, it was appropriate to speak with Fr. Maurice even for our secular audience that at least hope could be spread during this Advent Season. Myself being the son of Eastern Orthodox Christian immigrants and Fr. Maurice being an immigrant himself have a different understanding of Christianity in the Old World in comparison to the New World where the lines of politics and religious are often blurred. Through his latest book 'An Encounter: A Daily Discovery in Divine Word, Volume 1', Fr. Maurice takes us through daily reflections through the Roman Catholic prayers and helps us reflect on our lives in regards to the world around us. From the day after Thanksgiving all the way through Christmas, the Western World is so engulfed in the perfect image of the holidays and finding the ideal hot ticket item gift that we do not stop to reflect on life, family (for quite a few of us) faith, hope and most importantly loving our neighbor. This conversation about Advent with Fr. Maurice Nkem Emelu also helped me slow down during our conversation and pay attention to various details of his devotional companion guide. Fr. Maurice also gives us and everyone a blessing at the end of the interview this Holiday season. For more information on where to purchase a copy fo 'An Encounter: A Daily Discovery in Divine Word, Volume 1' visit revemelu.com. Follow Fr. Maurice Nkem Emelu on Twitter @Revemelu. #Advent #Interview #Book #CompanionBook #DailyDevotional #Catholic #Orthodox #Protestant #Christian #Christianity #Christmas #FanboyNation

A pray gathering for kidnapped Haitian missionaries...and the spiritual leader of Eastern Orthodox Christians has been released from a Washington, D-C hospital.

U.S. Supreme Court will hear request to put Texas's abortion law on hold...and the spiritual leader of Eastern Orthodox Christians visits the U.S. starting tomorrow.

EMP’s retreats for 2021 are live! Return to the Source has already sold out but there are spots left for the Autumn Retreat, don’t miss your spot.

1. We learned about why Eastern Orthodox Christians view Easter almost a month after Western Christians. Father Patrick Burns explains. ((00:10))2. Senator Richard Blumenthal dives into national legislation with police reform. ((07:59))3. Don't just follow the money! Luke Frey of the BBB talks about home sales and being prepared for 'opportunity investors.' ((16:32))4. Keep America Beautiful says in 10 years, Americans are getting better with cleaning up the Earth...but we are still on the struggle bus. ((24:41))IMAGE CREDIT: iStock / Getty Images Plus

Full Text of ReadingsThursday of the Fourth Week of Lent Lectionary: 247All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Cyril of JerusalemOn March 18, the Roman Catholic Church honors St. Cyril of Jerusalem, a fourth-century bishop and Doctor of the Church whose writings are still regarded as masterful expressions of Christian faith. St. Cyril is also remembered for his exhaustive Biblical knowledge, and his endurance in the face of misunderstanding and opposition. Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians, who likewise celebrate him as a saint on March 18, also remember him on May 7 the date of a miraculous apparition said to have occurred soon after his consecration as a bishop.What we know of Cyril's life is gathered from information concerning him from his younger contemporaries, Epiphanius, Jerome, and Rufinus, as well as from the fifth-century historians, Socrates, Sozomen and Theodoret. Cyril was most likely born in Jerusalem around the year 315, shortly after the legalization of Christianity throughout the Roman Empire. Although that legalization put a stop to many of the persecutions that threatened the Church for two centuries, it indirectly gave rise to a number of internal controversies both in regard to theology, and the jurisdiction of bishops in which Cyril would find himself involved. Cyril received an excellent education in classical Greek literature as well as the Bible. He was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Maximus of Jerusalem and succeeded him as bishop in 348. During his early years as a bishop, most likely around 350, he delivered a series of lectures to new initiates of the Catholic Church. Twenty-four of the lectures have survived and are studied today. In a 2007 general audience, Pope Benedict XVI praised the saint for providing an integral form of Christian instruction, involving body, soul, and spirit. St. Cyril's teaching, the Pope said, remains emblematic for the catechetical formation of Christians today.In 351, three years after Cyril became the Bishop of Jerusalem, a large cross-shaped light appeared for several hours in the sky over the city an event that many interpreted as a sign of the Church's triumph over heresy. It could also, however, be understood as a sign of the suffering the new bishop would undergo in leading his flock. Unlike many other Eastern bishops and priests of the fourth century, Cyril did not allow his classical learning to lead him away from believing in the full humanity and divinity of Christ. However, the man who consecrated Cyril as a bishop, Archbishop Acacius of Caesarea, was an ally of the Arians who claimed that Jesus was a creature and not God. Because of his connection to the archbishop, Cyril himself was unjustly suspected of heresy by many of his brother bishops. But he also found himself at odds with Archbishop Acacius, who claimed to have jurisdiction over the birthplace of the Church. Altogether, these disputes led to Cyril being exiled from Jerusalem three times in the course of 20 years. Cyril first took refuge with Silvanus, Bishop of Taraus. He appeared at the Council of Seleucia in 359, in which the semi-Arian party was triumphant. Acacius was deposed and St. Cyril seems to have returned to his see. But the emperor was displeased at the turn of events, and, in 360, Cyril and other moderates were again driven out, and only returned at the accession of Julian in 361. In 367, a decree of Valens banished all the bishops who had been restored by Julian, and Cyril remained in exile until the death of the persecutor in 378. In 380, St. Gregory of Nyssa came to Jerusalem on the recommendation of a council held at Antioch in the preceding year. He found the Faith in accord with the truth and expressed admiration of his pastoral efforst, but the city wasa prey to parties and corrupt in morals.In 381, St. Cyril participated in the Second Ecumenical Council, which condemned two different forms of Arianism and added statements about the Holy Spirit to the Nicene Creed of 325. St. Cyril of Jerusalem died in 387, and was named a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIII in 1883. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Is Dr Jordan Peterson about to convert to Christianity? If so, it’s a big deal. The earnest but sardonic Canadian psychologist is already the most effective advocate for the moral precepts of Christianity in the English-speaking media. But, until now, his penetrating exposition of the Bible has been inspired more by Jungian symbolism than by actual religious belief. That may be about to change, albeit not in the happiest of circumstances. In recent months Peterson has suffered from a combination of medical conditions that have left him in wretched pain, both physical and psychological. This has left him wondering whether it’s time to submit to the dogmatic assertions of orthodox Christianity. He explains his complex reasoning in an extraordinary podcast, in which he presents himself to his friend Jonathan Pageau, an Eastern Orthodox Christian, as something close to a broken man. He certainly sounds and looks like one. The contrast with the Jordan Peterson who politely humiliated the sneering Cathy Newman of Channel 4 News is excruciating.  Peterson will survive his crisis, I’m sure. Whether he will convert is, of course, impossible to say; he doesn’t know himself. But my guest this week, Dr Gavin Ashenden, is well qualified to describe his dilemma. Gavin was himself a disciple of Jung before what he describes as an encounter with demons led him back to Christianity. He makes the point that, even if Peterson doesn’t take the leap of faith, he has already led more people into that faith than any number of dim-witted or intellectually cowardly bishops. Please don’t miss this episode. 

Til Kingdom Come is a fascinating documentary about the growing support from Evangelical Protestants who have used their political influence in the United States and a unique understanding of theology to support the State of Israel. Filmmakers Maya Zinshtein and Abie Troen talked about their unique experience in meeting up with several Evangelical groups and supporters of Israel, but what appears to be a more dangerous ideology in seeking Armageddon. When I was in graduate school I learned of this theology in that some Evangelicals sects accept the covenant of God with Abraham and his descendants as part of Christian tradition instead of the new covenant that the Apostle Paul speaks of throughout his Epistles. Unlike, High Church Christianity, these groups seek not only political influence but are attempting to force the Hand of God in gathering up the Jewish people, sending them back to Israel and force the Second Coming of Christ. They also negate the fact that 30 percent of Palestinians are Christian, primarily Eastern Orthodox, along with Byzantine Catholics and High Church Protestants, ignoring not only their identity but the Christian presence that has been in the Middle East since the Apostolic Age. I am of the Eastern Orthodox Christian faith and have been told numerous times by people of these sects that I am not a Christian and that I have no understanding of the Holy Bible, so there is no surprise to those of us on the receiving end of that worldview in how they feel about other the trunk of the Christian tree. Maya Zinshtein, Abie Troen and I have a fascinating discussion about what it means to be Jewish and practically fetishized for their identity, especially when Zinshtein professes to be a secular Jew instead of a practicing religious one and what that means for someone like her when these denominations look to a religious State of Israel instead. Til Kingdom Come will be available nationwide Watch Now @ Home Cinema Release on Friday, February 26, 2021.

Full Text of ReadingsTuesday of the First Week of Lent Lectionary: 225All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Polycarp of SmyrnaOn Feb. 23, the Catholic Church remembers the life and martyrdom of St. Polycarp, a disciple of the apostle and evangelist St. John. Polycarp is celebrated on the same date by Eastern Orthodox Christians, who also honor him as a Saint.Polycarp is known to later generations primarily through the account of his martyrdom, rather than by a formal biography. However, it can be determined from that account that he was born around the year 69 AD. From the testimony he gave to his persecutors stating he had served Christ for 86 years it is clear that he was either raised as a Christian, or became one in his youth.Growing up among the Greek-speaking Christians of the Roman Empire, Polycarp received the teachings and recollections of individuals who had seen and known Jesus during his earthly life. This important connection between Jesus' first disciples and apostles and their respective students served to protect the Catholic Church against the influence of heresy during its earliest days, particularly against early attempts to deny Jesus' bodily incarnation and full humanity.Polycarp's most significant teacher, with whom he studied personally, was St. John whose contributions to the Bible included not only the clearest indication of Jesus' eternal divinity, but also the strongest assertions of the human nature he assumed on behalf of mankind. By contrast, certain tendencies had already emerged among the first Christians to deny the reality of Jesus' literal suffering, death, and resurrection, regarding them as mere "symbols" of highly abstract ideas. With John's help, Polycarp may have been the one who compiled, edited, and published the New TestamentAnother Catholic teacher of the second century, St. Irenaeus, wrote that Polycarp "was not only instructed by apostles, and conversed with many who had seen Christ; but he was also, by apostles, appointed bishop of the Church in Smyrna." In a surviving letter that he wrote to the Philippians, he reminded that Church which had also received the teaching of St. Paul not to surrender their faith to the "gnostic" teachers claiming to teach a more intellectually refined gospel."For every one who shall not confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh, is antichrist," he wrote citing St. John himself "and whosoever shall not confess the testimony of the Cross, is of the devil; and whosoever shall pervert the oracles of the Lord to his own lusts and say that there is neither resurrection nor judgment, that man is the firstborn of Satan.""Let us therefore, without ceasing, hold fast by our hope and by the pledge of our righteousness," Polycarp taught as he went on to explain that both hope and righteousness depended upon "Jesus Christ, who took up our sins in His own body upon the cross." With eloquence and clarity, he reminded the Philippian Church that Christ, "for our sakes, endured all things so that we might live in him."However, Polycarp's most eloquent testimony to his faith in Jesus came not through his words, but through his martyrdom, described in another early Christian work. The Church of Smyrna, in present-day Turkey, compiled their recollections of their bishop's death at the hands of public authorities in a letter to another local church."We have written to you, brethren, as to what relates to the martyrs, and especially to the blessed Polycarp" who, in the words of the Catholics of Smyrna, "put an end to the persecution having, as it were, set a seal upon it by his martyrdom."Around the year 155, Polycarp became aware that government authorities were on the lookout for him, seeking to stamp out the Catholic Church's claim of obeying a higher authority than the Emperor. He retreated to a country house and occupied himself with constant prayer, before receiving a vision of his death that prompted him to inform his friends: "I must be burned alive." He changed locations, but was betrayed by a young man who knew his whereabouts and confessed under torture.He was captured on a Saturday evening by two public officials, who urged him to submit to the state demands. "What harm is there," one asked, "in saying, 'Caesar is Lord,' and in sacrificing to him, with the other ceremonies observed on such occasions, so as to make sure of safety?""I shall not do as you advise me," he answered. Outraged by his response, the officials had him violently thrown from their chariot and taken to an arena for execution. Entering the stadium, the bishop along with some of his companions, who survived to tell of it heard a heavenly voice, saying: "Be strong, and show yourself a man, O Polycarp!"Before the crowd, the Roman proconsul demanded again that he worship the emperor."Hear me declare with boldness, I am a Christian," the bishop said. "And if you wish to learn what the doctrines of Christianity are, appoint me a day, and you shall hear them.""You threaten me with fire," he continued "which burns for an hour, and after a little is extinguished. But you are ignorant of the fire of the coming judgment and of eternal punishment, reserved for the ungodly.""But," he challenged the proconsul, "what are you waiting for? Bring forth what you will."Although the crowds clamored for Polycarp to be devoured by beasts, it was decided he should be burned alive, just as he had prophesied. He prayed aloud to God: "May I be accepted this day before you as an acceptable sacrifice -- just as you, the ever-truthful God, have foreordained, revealed beforehand to me, and now have fulfilled."What happened next struck Polycarp's companions with amazement; they recorded the sight in the letter that they circulated after Polycarp's death."As the flame blazed forth in great fury," they wrote, "we to whom it was given to witness it, beheld a great miracle." The fire did not seem to touch the bishop's body. Rather, as they described, "shaping itself into the form of an arch, itencompassed as by a circle the body of the martyr. And he appeared within not like flesh which is burnt, but as bread that is baked, or as gold and silver glowing in a furnace.""Moreover, we perceived such a sweet odour coming from the flames as if frankincense or some such precious spices had been burning there."The executioners perceived that Polycarp's death was not going as planned. Losing patience, they ordered him to be stabbed to death.From the resulting wound, "there came forth a dove, and a great quantity of blood, so that the fire was extinguished."The crowd, as the Christian witnesses recalled, were understandably amazed."All the people marveled," they wrote, "that there should be such a difference between the unbelievers and the elect." Polycarp, they proclaimed, had been among that elect "having in our own times been an apostolic and prophetic teacher, and bishop of the Catholic Church which is in Smyrna."St. Polycarp has been venerated as a Saint since his death in 155. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsMonday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 323All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Brigid of IrelandOn Feb. 1 Catholics in Ireland and elsewhere will honor Saint Brigid of Kildare, a monastic foundress who is together with Saint Patrick and Saint Columcille one of the countrys three patron saints.St. Brigid directly influenced several other future saints of Ireland, and her many religious communities helped to secure the country's conversion from paganism to the Catholic faith.She is traditionally associated with the Cross of St. Brigid, a form of the cross made from reeds or straw that is placed in homes for blessing and protection. Some Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians also celebrate her feast.St. Brigid has been profiled many times by both ancient and modern writers, but it is notoriously hard to establish the historical details of her life, and the various accounts make many conflicting claims. According to one of the more credible biographies of Brigid Hugh de Blacam's essay in The Saints of Ireland, on which the following account is based most historians place her birth around the year 450, near the end of Saint Patrick's evangelistic mission.Brigid was born out of wedlock, the daughter of a pagan cheiftain named Dubthach and a Christian slave woman named Broicsech. The cheiftain sold the child's pregnant mother to a new master, but contracted for Brigid to be returned to him eventually. According to de Blacam, the child was probably baptized as an infant and raised as a Catholic by her mother. Thus, she was well-formed in the faith before leaving Broicsech's slave-quarters, at around age 10, to live with Dubthach and his wife.Within the new circumstances of the cheiftain's household, Brigid's faith found expression in feats of charity. From the abundance of her father's food and possessions, she gave generously to the poor. Dubthach became enraged, threatening to sell Brigid who was not recognized as a full family member, but worked as a household servant to the King of Leinster. But the Christian king understood Brigid's acts of charity and convinced Dubthach to grant his daughter her freedom.Released from servitude, Brigid was expected to marry. But she had other plans, which involved serving God in consecrated life. She even disfigured her own face, marring her beauty in order to dissuade suitors. Understanding he could not change her mind, Dubthach granted Brigid permission to pursue her plan, and material means by which to do so. Thus did a pagan nobleman, through this gift to his illegitimate daughter, play an unintentional but immense part in God's plan for Ireland.While consecrated religious life was part of the Irish Church before Brigid's time, it had not yet developed the systematic character seen in other parts of the Christian world by the fifth century. Among women, vows of celibacy were often lived out in an impromptu manner, in the circumstances of everyday life or with the aid of particular benefactors. Brigid, with an initial group of seven companions, is credited with organizing communal consecrated religious life for women in Ireland.Bishop Mel of Ardagh St. Patrick's nephew, and later St. Mel accepted Brigid's profession as a nun. According to tradition, the disfigurement she had inflicted on her face disappeared that day, and her beauty returned. St. Mel went on to serve as a mentor to the group during their time at Ardagh.Around the time of his death in 488, Brigid's community got an offer to resettle. Their destination is known today as Kildare (Church of the Oak), after the main monastery she founded there.Brigid's life as a nun was rooted in prayer, but it also involved substantial manual labor: cloth-making, dairy farming, and raising sheep. In Ireland, as in many other regions of the Christian world, this communal combination of work and prayer attracted vast numbers of people during the sixth century. Kildare, however, was unique as the only known Irish double monastery: it included a separately-housed men's community, led by the bishop Saint Conleth.From this main monastery, Brigid's movement branched out to encompass a large portion of Ireland. It is not clear just how large, but it is evident that Brigid traveled widely throughout the island, founding new houses and building up a uniquely Irish form of monasticism. When she was not traveling, many pilgrims including prominent clergy, and some future saints made their way to Kildare, seeking the advice of the abbess.Under Brigid's leadership, Kildare played a major role in the successful Christianization of Ireland. The abbess' influence was felt in the subsequent era of the Irish Church, a time when the country became known for its many monasteries and their intellectual achievements.St. Brigid of Kildare died around 525. She is said to have received the last sacraments from a priest, Saint Ninnidh, whose vocation she had encouraged. Veneration of Brigid grew in the centuries after her death, and spread outside of Ireland through the work of the country's monastic missionaries. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the First Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 309All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Paul of ThebesOn Jan. 15, the Catholic Church remembers Saint Paul of Thebes, whose life of solitude and penance gave inspiration to the monastic movement during its early years.Surviving in the Egyptian desert on a small amount of daily food, St. Paul the Hermit lived in close communion with God. Before the end of his life at age 113, he met with St. Anthony the Great, who led an early community of monks elsewhere in the Egyptian desert.Born in approximately 230, the future hermit Paul received a solid religious and secular education, but lost his parents at age 15. During the year 250, the Roman Emperor Decius carried out a notorious persecution of the Church, executing clergy and forcing laypersons to prove their loyalty by worshiping idols. The state used torture, as well as the threat of death to coerce believers into making pagan sacrifices.Paul went into hiding during the Decian persecution, but became aware of a family member's plan to betray him to the authorities. The young man retreated to a remote desert location, where he discovered a large abandoned cave that had once been used as a facility for making counterfeit coins. He found that he could survive on water from a spring. A raven brought him half a loaf of bread daily.Forced into the wilderness by circumstance, Paul found he loved the life of prayer and simplicity that it made possible. Thus, he never returned to the outside world, even though he lived well into the era of the Church's legalization and acceptance by the Roman Empire. Later on, his way of life inspired Catholics who sought a deeper relationship with God through spiritual discipline and isolation from the outside world.One of these faithful was Anthony of Egypt, born in the vicinity of Cairo around 251, who also lived to an old age after deciding during his youth to live in the desert out of devotion to God. Paul of Thebes is known to posterity because Anthony, around the year 342, was told in a dream about the older hermit's existence, and went to find him.A similar knowledge about Anthony had been mysteriously given to the earlier hermit. Thus, when he appeared at Paul's cave, they greeted each other by name, though they had never met. Out of contact with the Roman Empire for almost a century, Paul asked about its condition, and whether paganism was still practiced. He told Anthony how, for the last 60 years, a bird had brought him a ration of bread each day a mode of subsistence also granted to the Old Testament prophet Elijah.After 113 years, most of them spent in solitary devotion, Paul understood that he was nearing the end of his earthly life. He asked Anthony to return to his own hermitage, and bring back a cloak that had been given to the younger monk by the bishop St. Athanasius. That heroically orthodox bishop had not yet been born when Paul first fled to the desert, and Anthony had never mentioned him or the cloak in question. Amazed, Anthony paid reverence to Paul and set out to fulfill his request.During the return trip, Anthony was shown a vision of St. Paul of Thebes' soul, glorified and ascending toward Heaven. On returning to the first hermit's cave, he venerated the body of its inhabitant, wrapped him in Athanasius' cloak, and carried him outdoors. Saint Jerome, in his Life of St. Paul the First Hermit, attests that two lions arrived, demonstrated their reverence, and dug a grave for the saint.Having given him Athanasius' cloak, St. Anthony took back to his hermitage the garment which St. Paul of Thebes had woven for himself from palm leaves. Anthony passed on the account of his journey and the saint's life to his own growing group of monastic disciples, and it was written down by St. Jerome around the year 375 approximately 33 years after the death of the first hermit.Venerated on the same day by Roman Catholics, Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians, St. Paul of Thebes is also the namesake of a Catholic monastic order the Order of Saint Paul the First Hermit founded in Hungary during the 13th century and still in operation. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Saint Gregory of Nyssa  was a 4th century bishop and theologian, as well as the younger brother of St Basil the Great. As one of the "Cappadocian Fathers", Saint Gregory was among the most important theologians in Christian history, and his work continues to be influential today especially for Eastern Orthodox Christians.  He was an eloquent defender of Christian truth against heresy, and a participant of the Second Ecunemical Council, which formulated the Nicene Creed as we know it today. In this episode, we read from a few of his works, such as  Against Eunomius, On Perfection, and The Life of Moses.

Full Text of ReadingsFriday of the First Week of Advent Lectionary: 179All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. John of DamascusCatholics remember and celebrate the life of the great Arab Church Father St. John of Damascuson Dec. 4.Eastern Orthodox Christians and Eastern Catholics, whose tradition has been particularly shaped by his insights, celebrate the saint's feast on the same day as the Roman Catholic Church.Among Eastern Christians, St. John (676-749) is best known for his defense of Christian sacred art, particularly in the form of icons. While the churches of Rome and Constantinople were still united during St. John's life, the Byzantine Emperor Leo III broke radically from the ancient tradition of the church, charging that the veneration of Christian icons was a form of idolatry.John had grown up under Muslim rule in Damascus, as the child of strongly Christian parents. His excellent education particularly in theology prepared him well to defend the tradition of sacred iconography, against the heresy of the iconoclasts, so-called because they would enter churches and destroy the images therein.During the 720s, the upstart theologian began publicly opposing the emperor's command against sacred images in a series of writings. The heart of his argument was twofold: first, that Christians did not actually worship images, but rather, through them they worshiped God, and honored the memory of the saints. Second, he asserted that by taking an incarnate physical form, Christ had given warrant to the Church's depiction of him in images.By 730, the young public official's persistent defense of Christian artwork had made him a permanent enemy of the emperor, who had a letter forged in John's name offering to betray the Muslim government of Damascus. The ruling caliph of the city, taken in by the forgery, is said to have cut off John's hand. The saint's sole surviving biography states that the Virgin Mary acted to restore it miraculously. John eventually managed to convince the Muslim ruler of his innocence, before making the decision to become a monk and later a priest.Although a number of imperially-convened synods condemned John's advocacy of Christian iconography, the Roman church always regarded his position as a defense of apostolic tradition. Years after the priest and monk died, the Seventh Ecumenical Council vindicated his orthodoxy, and ensured the permanent place of holy images in both Eastern and Western Christian piety.St. John of Damascus' other notable achievements include the Exact Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, a work in which he systematized the earlier Greek Fathers' thinking about theological truths in light of philosophy. The work exerted a profound influence on St. Thomas Aquinas and subsequent scholastic theologians. Centuries later, St. John's sermons on the Virgin Mary's bodily assumption into heaven were cited in Pope Pius XII's dogmatic definition on the subject.The saint also contributed as an author and editor, to some of the liturgical hymns and poetry that Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholics still use in their celebrations of the liturgy.Show me the icons that you venerate, that I may be able to understand your faith. - Saint John of Damascus Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr Lectionary: 494All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. JosaphatToday, on the day of his martyrdom, Nov. 12, Roman Catholics and some Eastern Catholics remember St. Josaphat Kuntsevych, a bishop and monk whose example of faith inspired many Eastern Orthodox Christians to return to full communion with the Holy See. Other Eastern Catholics, including the Ukrainian Catholic Church, celebrate St. Josaphat's feast day on Nov. 25.Born in 1580 in the western Ukrainian region of Volhynia, John Kuntsevych did not become Josaphat until his later life as a monk. He also was not initially a full member of the Catholic Church, born to Orthodox Christian parents whose church had fallen out of communion with the Pope.Although the Eastern churches began to separate from the Holy See in 1054, a union had existed for a period of time after the 15th century Ecumenical Council of Florence. But social, political and theological disputes caused the union to begin dissolving even before the Turkish conquest of Byzantium in 1453. By Johns time, many Slavic Orthodox Christians had become strongly anti-Catholic.During this time, Latin missionaries attempted to achieve reunion with the individual eastern patriarchs. The approach was risky, sometimes politicizing the faith and leading to further divisions. But it did yield some notable successes, including the reunion of Johns own Ruthenian Church in the 1596 Union of Brest.John was trained as a merchants apprentice and could have opted for marriage. But he felt drawn to the rigors and spiritual depth of traditional Byzantine monasticism. Taking the monastic name of Josaphat, he entered a Ukrainian monastery in 1604.The young monk was taking on an ambitious task, striving to re-incorporate the Eastern Orthodox tradition with the authority of the Catholic Church in the era of its Counter-reformation. Soon, as a priest, subsequently an archbishop, and ultimately a martyr, he would live and die for the union of the churches.While rejecting the anti-Western sentiments of many of his countrymen, Josaphat also resisted any attempt to compromise the Eastern Catholic churches own traditions. Recognizing the urgent pastoral needs of the people, he produced catechisms and works of apologetics, while implementing long overdue reforms of the clergy and attending to the needs of the poor.Josaphats exemplary life and zeal for the care of souls won the trust of many Orthodox Christians, who saw the value of the churches union reflected in the archbishops life and works. Nevertheless, his mission was essentially controversial, and others were led to believe lurid stories and malicious suggestions made about him. In 1620, opponents arranged for the consecration of a rival archbishop.As tensions between supporters and opponents began to escalate, Josaphat lamented the onset of attacks that would lead to his death. You people of Vitebsk want to put me to death, he protested. You make ambushes for me everywhere, in the streets, on the bridges, on the highways, and in the marketplace. I am here among you as a shepherd, and you ought to know that I would be happy to give my life for you.He finally did so, on a fall day in 1623. An Orthodox priest had been shouting insults outside the archbishops residence, and trying to force his way inside. Josaphat had him removed, but the man assembled a mob in the town. They arrived and demanded the archbishops life, threatening his companions and servants. Unable to escape, Josaphat died praying for the men who shot and then beheaded him before dumping his body in a river.St. Josaphats body was discovered incorrupt, five years later. Remarkably, the saints onetime rival - the Orthodox Archbishop Meletius - was reconciled with the Catholic Church in later years. St. Josaphat was canonized in 1867. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church Lectionary: 492All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Pope St. Leo the GreatNov. 10 is the Roman Catholic Churchs liturgical memorial of the fifth-century Pope Saint Leo I, known as St. Leo the Great, whose involvement in the fourth ecumenical council helped prevent the spread of error on Christ's divine and human natures.St. Leo intervened for the safety of the Church in the West as well, persuading Attila the Hun to turn back from Rome.Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians also maintain a devotion to the memory of Pope St. Leo the Great. Churches of the Byzantine tradition celebrate his feast day on Feb. 18.As the nickname soon attributed to him by tradition suggests, Pope Benedict XVI said in a 2008 general audience on the saint, he was truly one of the greatest pontiffs to have honoured the Roman See and made a very important contribution to strengthening its authority and prestige.Leos origins are obscure and his date of birth unknown. His ancestors are said to have come from Tuscany, though the future pope may have been born in that region or in Rome itself. He became a deacon in Rome in approximately 430, during the pontificate of Pope Celestine I.During this time, central authority was beginning to decline in the Western portion of the Roman Empire. At some point between 432 and 440, during the reign of Pope St. Celestines successor Pope Sixtus III, the Roman Emperor Valentinian III commissioned Leo to travel to the region of Gaul and settle a dispute between military and civil officials.Pope Sixtus III died in 440 and, like his predecessor Celestine, was canonized as a saint. Leo, away on his diplomatic mission at the time of the Popes death, was chosen to be the next Bishop of Rome. Reigning for over two decades, he sought to preserve the unity of the Church in its profession of faith, and to ensure the safety of his people against frequent barbarian invasions.Leo used his authority, in both doctrinal and disciplinary matters, against a number of heresies troubling the Western church including Pelagianism (involving the denial of Original Sin) and Manichaeanism (a gnostic system that saw matter as evil). In this same period, many Eastern Christians had begun arguing about the relationship between Jesus humanity and divinity.As early as 445, Leo had intervened in this dispute in the East, which threatened to split the churches of Alexandria and Constantinople. Its eventual resolution was, in fact, rejected in some quarters leading to the present-day split between Eastern Orthodoxy and the so-called non-Chalcedonian churches which accept only three ecumenical councils.As the fifth-century Christological controversy continued, the Pope urged the gathering of an ecumenical council to resolve the matter. At the Council of Chalcedon in 451, the Popes teaching was received as authoritative by the Eastern bishops, who proclaimed: Peter has spoken through the mouth of Leo.Leos teaching confirmed that Christs eternal divine personhood and nature did not absorb or negate the human nature that he assumed in time through the Incarnation. Instead, the proper character of both natures was maintained and came together in a single person.So without leaving his Father's glory behind, the Son of God comes down from his heavenly throne and enters the depths of our world, the Pope taught. Whilst remaining pre-existent, he begins to exist in time. The Lord of the universe veiled his measureless majesty and took on a servant's form. The God who knew no suffering did not despise becoming a suffering man, and, deathless as he is, to be subject to the laws of death.In 452, one year after the Council of Chalcedon, Pope Leo led a delegation which successfully negotiated with the barbarian king Attila to prevent an invasion of Rome. When the Vandal leader Genseric occupied Rome in 455, the Pope confronted him, unarmed, and obtained a guarantee of safety for many of the citys inhabitants and the churches to which they had fled.Pope St. Leo the Great died on Nov. 10, 461. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIV in 1754. A large collection of his writings and sermons survives, and can be read in translation today. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr Lectionary: 472All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is St. Ignatius of AntiochOn Oct. 17, the Roman Catholic Church remembers the early Church Father, bishop, and martyr Saint Ignatius of Antioch, whose writings attest to the sacramental and hierarchical nature of the Church from its earliest days. Eastern Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians celebrate his memory on Dec. 20.In a 2007 general audience on St. Ignatius of Antioch, Pope Benedict XVI observed that no Church Father has expressed the longing for union with Christ and for life in him with the intensity of Ignatius. In his letters, the Pope said, one feels the freshness of the faith of the generation which had still known the Apostles. In these letters, the ardent love of a saint can also be felt.Born in Syria in the middle of the first century A.D., Ignatius is said to have been personally instructed along with another future martyr, Saint Polycarp by the Apostle Saint John. When Ignatius became the Bishop of Antioch around the year 70, he assumed leadership of a local church that was, according to tradition, first led by Saint Peter before his move to Rome.Although St. Peter transmitted his Papal primacy to the bishops of Rome rather than Antioch, the city played an important role in the life of the early Church. Located in present-day Turkey, it was a chief city of the Roman Empire, and was also the location where the believers in Jesus' teachings and his resurrection were first called Christians.Ignatius led the Christians of Antioch during the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian, the first of the emperors to proclaim his divinity by adopting the title Lord and God. Subjects who would not give worship to the emperor under this title could be punished with death. As the leader of a major Catholic diocese during this period, Ignatius showed courage and worked to inspire it in others.After Domitian's murder in the year 96, his successor Nerva reigned only briefly, and was soon followed by the Emperor Trajan. Under his rule, Christians were once again liable to death for denying the pagan state religion and refusing to participate in its rites. It was during his reign that Ignatius was convicted for his Christian testimony and sent from Syria to Rome to be put to death.Escorted by a team of military guards, Ignatius nonetheless managed to compose seven letters: six to various local churches throughout the empire (including the Church of Rome), and one to his fellow bishop Polycarp who would give his own life for Christ several decades later.Ignatius' letters passionately stressed the importance of Church unity, the dangers of heresy, and the surpassing importance of the Eucharist as the medicine of immortality. These writings contain the first surviving written description of the Church as Catholic, from the Greek word indicating both universality and fullness.One of the most striking features of Ignatius' letters, is his enthusiastic embrace of martyrdom as a means to union with God and eternal life. All the pleasures of the world, and all the kingdoms of this earth, shall profit me nothing, he wrote to the Church of Rome. It is better for me to die in behalf of Jesus Christ, than to reign over all the ends of the earth.Now I begin to be a disciple, the bishop declared. Let fire and the cross; let the crowds of wild beasts; let tearings, breakings, and dislocations of bones; let cutting off of members; let shatterings of the whole body; and let all the dreadful torments of the devil come upon me: only let me attain to Jesus Christ.St. Ignatius of Antioch bore witness to Christ publicly for the last time in Rome's Flavian Amphitheater, where he was mauled to death by lions. I am the wheat of the Lord, he had declared, before facing them. I must be ground by the teeth of these beasts to be made the pure bread of Christ. His memory was honored, and his bones venerated, soon after his death around the year 107. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Full Text of ReadingsMemorial of Our Lady of the Rosary Lectionary: 463All podcast readings are produced by the USCCB and are from the Catholic Lectionary, based on the New American Bible and approved for use in the United States _______________________________________The Saint of the day is Feast of Our Lady of the RosaryOn October 7, the Roman Catholic Church celebrates the yearly feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. Known for several centuries by the alternate title of Our Lady of Victory, the feast day takes place in honor of a 16th century naval victory which secured Europe against Turkish invasion. Pope St. Pius V attributed the victory to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was invoked on the day of the battle through a campaign to pray the Rosary throughout Europe.The feast always occurs one week after the similar Byzantine celebration of the Protection of the Mother of God, which most Eastern Orthodox Christians and Eastern Catholics celebrate on October 1 in memory of a 10th-century military victory which protected Constantinople against invasion after a reported Marian apparition.Pope Leo XIII was particularly devoted to Our Lady of the Rosary, producing 11 encyclicals on the subject of this feast and its importance in the course of his long pontificate. In the first of them, 1883's Supremi Apostolatus Officio, he echoed the words of the oldest known Marian prayer (known in the Latin tradition as the Sub Tuum Praesidium), when he wrote, It has always been the habit of Catholics in danger and in troublous times to fly for refuge to Mary. This devotion, so great and so confident, to the august Queen of Heaven, Pope Leo continued, has never shone forth with such brilliancy as when the militant Church of God has seemed to be endangered by the violence of heresy or by an intolerable moral corruption, or by the attacks of powerful enemies. Foremost among such attacks was the battle of Lepanto, a perilous and decisive moment in European and world history. Troops of the Turkish Ottoman Empire had invaded and occupied the Byzantine empire by 1453, bringing a large portion of the increasingly divided Christian world under a version of Islamic law. For the next hundred years, the Turks expanded their empire westward on land, and asserted their naval power in the Mediterranean. In 1565 they attacked Malta, envisioning an eventual invasion of Rome. Though repelled at Malta, the Turks captured Cyprus in the fall of 1570.The next year, three Catholic powers on the continent Genoa, Spain, and the Papal States - formed an alliance called the Holy League, to defend their Christian civilization against Turkish invasion. Its fleets sailed to confront the Turks near the west coast of Greece on October 7, 1571. Crew members on more than 200 ships prayed the Rosary in preparation for the battle - as did Christians throughout Europe, encouraged by the Pope to gather in their churches to invoke the Virgin Mary against the daunting Turkish forces.Some accounts say that Pope Pius V was granted a miraculous vision of the Holy League's stunning victory. Without a doubt, the Pope understood the significance of the day's events, when he was eventually informed that all but 13 of the nearly 300 Turkish ships had been captured or sunk. He was moved to institute the feast now celebrated universally as Our Lady of the Rosary.Turkish victory at Lepanto would have been a catastrophe of the first magnitude for Christendom, wrote military historian John F. Guilmartin, Jr., and Europe would have followed a historical trajectory strikingly different from that which obtained. Saint of the Day Copyright CNA, Catholic News Agency

Brothers and Sisters - Christ is risen! This we proclaim every year in a sacred memorial feast, where we enter into the Bright and Glorious Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Death received a man and behold encountered God! The Gates of Hades could not prevail, but we broken down and those captive there were let out! --- Now we enter a special time of year - Paschaltide.  For traditional Christians, that is Christians who still keep the traditions of the last 2000+ years of God's work in the world, only the Eastern Orthodox Christians today, Easter is not merely a one-day commemoration. I laugh even to write it!  The whole week after Easter is called Bright week and it is held in special festivity, if we are willing and able. The doors of the Church are left open, the discipline of fasting is suspended and we read special prayers throughout each day in place of our usual prayers. --- These prayers are called the Paschal Hours and they are very joyful and exuberant.  This podcast is a recording of the way we sing these Paschal Hours in the Prostopenie system of church music, as we practice it at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church in Indiana. It does not need to be sung in this way, but it is one example. Listen to get an idea how it can be sung. Then intone or sing it in your own way as you are able, or just read it.  Here is the link to the text you can download, print or read on your device: https://www.orthodox.net/pascha/paschalhours.html   These prayers are to be used by Orthodox Christians on Monday thru Saturday of Bright Week in place of morning and evening prayers, all the hours of prayer throughout the day and in preparation for Holy Communion. On Antipascha, Sunday of St. Thomas, we resume our prayers, with some variation for the Paschal season.  *I apologize for the sub-quality of this recording.

On Sunday, millions of Eastern Orthodox Christians will observe Easter, or “Pascha” across the world. Reset takes a closer look at how the holiday has taken on special significance in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is Part 14 of the Christian History series. This episode is part one of an interview with Dax Stokes, an Eastern Orthodox deacon in Texas. This interview will help my listeners understand what it is like to be an Eastern Orthodox Christian. Part 2 will be released next Wednesday.

Welcome to the Ecumenical Dialogue Project. We are a group of friends who met in seminary, and each of us belong to a different Christian tradition. Chad is an Eastern Orthodox Christian, Zach is a Roman Catholic, and Tony is a Protestant. Chad and I transitioned from Protestantism in seminary, and Tony has remained. We will be discussing matters of faith, theology, philosophy, and life. Welcome to our dialogue!

In which software engineer and A.I. researcher William A. Wilson recounts his journey from Roman Catholicism to atheism, from atheism to deism, and from deism to Eastern Orthodoxy. We discuss substitutionary atonement, physicalism, sudden experiences of God's presence, "regular unction," why the Orthodox love Pope Francis, the intense beauty of the Divine Liturgy, the potential (imminent?) reunion of Coptic and Eastern Orthodox Christians, and the ecumenism of friendship, shared worship, and shared veneration of saints. Check out Will's writing! https://www.firstthings.com/article/2017/11/the-myth-of-scientific-objectivity https://www.weeklystandard.com/william-a-wilson/robots-ai-and-ancient-mythology-acts-of-creation

It reads like a bad joke, but this episode features interviews with 2 Anglican bishops and an Eastern Orthodox priest. Bishop Alberto Morales, Bishop Keith Ackerman, and Fr. Andrew Kishler all gave Chris time to talk about an assorted amount of Christmas traditions, both secular and ecclesiastical. They discuss Puerto Rican Christmas traditions, how to do New Years and the Feast of the Holy Name as a church, and what Epiphany/Theophany looks like for Eastern Orthodox Christians. And please consider supporting the Kickstarter campaign Chris has going on right now for his forthcoming book on Christmas: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/chrismarchand/book-celebrating-the-12-days-of-christmas

Midday theater critic J. Wynn Rousuck, who joins us each week with her review of one of the region's many theatrical productions, today spotlights Judy and the General, the new musical comedy on stage at Spotlighters Theatre in Baltimore.Judy and the General is playwright Rosemary Frisino Toohey's funny, feminist take on the biblical character Judith, and her confrontation with the powerful Assyrian general, Holofernes. The play (whose book, music and lyrics are all by Ms. Toohey) draws from The Book of Judith, a so-called deuterocanonical book that's included in the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian versions of the Old Testament Bible, but excluded from Jewish texts and assigned by Protestants to the Apocrypha.Museums and churches all over the world are replete with images of Judith, as many famed artists through the centuries have depicted the young woman in the act of beheading a bearded general.​Among the tiny roster of strong female characters portrayed in the Bible, Judith is a heroic standout. Intelligent, devout and determined, she uses her feminine wiles to outwit and defeat Holofernes. And in a classic clash of the forces of good and evil, she saves her people from destruction.For Spotlighters production of Judy and the General, the stage and musical director is Michael W. Tan, who leads a cast that includes Kellie Podsednik, Kay-Megan Washington, Richard Greenslit, Wayne Ivusich and Rob Wall.Judy and the General continues at Spotlighters through Sunday, July 29th.

Fyodor Mikhailovich Dostoevsky was a Russian novelist, short story writer, journalist, essayist, and philosopher active during the 19th century. His writing focused on a multitude of topics that stemmed from a constant study on human psychology during a time in Russia filled with political, social, and religious upheaval, though to give some perspective on his literary impact, Dostoevsky’s books have been translated into more that 170 languages. His best known novel, Crime and Punishment, is said to have been ‘the only thing read in 1866’, and while critics didn’t love it then, this book firmly established Dostoevsky as one of the greatest writers of his time. Along with many of his fellow Russians, Dostoevsky had a relatively tumultuous existence from the day he was born until the day he died: he was an epileptic, his father was believed to be murdered by his own serfs, he was imprisoned, nearly executed and exiled, AGAIN imprisoned in absolutely horrifying conditions, survived a number of wives and illicit affairs, battled a very serious gambling addiction, and then, of course, comes his career as a writer whose ideals were centered on the people of Russia, and their potential on a global landscape. He also was a very picky black tea drinker, a devout Eastern Orthodox Christian, and of course, loved him some vodka. So let’s get started shall we, and dive right on into the life of Fyodor Dostoevsky.

Fr. Lawrence Farley speaks at Daniel Chapel at Furman University on February 6, 2018. Fr. Farley explores the nature and end of humankind from an Eastern Orthodox Christian perspective.

Fr. Lawrence Farley speaks at Daniel Chapel at Furman University on February 6, 2018. Fr. Farley explores the nature and end of humankind from an Eastern Orthodox Christian perspective.

Fr. Lawrence Farley speaks at Daniel Chapel at Furman University on February 6, 2018. Fr. Farley explores the nature and end of humankind from an Eastern Orthodox Christian perspective.

This week, Hank is joined on Hank Unplugged by Dr. Bradley Nassif. Dr. Nassif is one of the preeminent academic experts on Orthodox-Evangelical dialogue and a strong advocate of a “unity in diversity” approach to the Christian faith. This conversation aims to clarify many misconceptions between branches of Christianity and how we might better apply our call from Christ to the Father in His high priestly prayer that we may all be as one. Topics discussed include: is there any hope for better engagement between evangelicals and Orthodox Christians? (5:30); the orthodox beliefs shared between Eastern Orthodox Christians and evangelical Christians (8:00); the increasing dialogue between evangelicals and Eastern Orthodox Christians (14:30); exploring different perspectives on the Atonement and Incarnation (20:30); underdeveloped theology regarding icons and the connection between Christ's incarnation and the basis for icons (24:30); the challenges for people who are unfamiliar with aspects of the Eastern Orthodox worship experience (29:00); the symbolic architectural significance of various church buildings and their arrangements (33:00); what do candles and incense in Orthodox churches represent? (40:00); why do so many insist on pitting Holy Tradition against Sola Scriptura? (45:00); the baptismal process and the importance of keeping the gospel clear and compelling for every generation (53:00); the opportunity for internal renewal within Orthodoxy as well as to explain to the world what Orthodox beliefs truly are (58:00); the transcendent importance of the seven Ecumenical Councils (1:09:00); remembering John 17 as we strive for unity in diversity amongst Christians (1:13:00); Sola Fide and the false dichotomy of faith and works (1:15:00).

Happy Pascha! A Citizenship Quiz in Honor of Eastern Orthodox Christian Americans pdf: http://goo.gl/YE8yR8 I wrote this quiz for several reasons. First, to honor Central/Eastern European-American Heritage. Second, to showcase the diversity in the American christian community. Third, to celebrate Easter. In the past, Western Christians and the Eastern Orthodox have been divided by religion, history, and politics, but as Americans, we are united as one people, and this year, we are celebrating Easter on the same day. I would also like to introduce, Branka and Tony, from Canada and the former Yugoslavia. Branka is a longtime colleague who currently Projects Coordinator for OUTREACH AND TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE NETWORK (otan.us) and recently became a new US ciitizen. Quiz answers: Colonists came to America for freedom. Freedom of religion is that you can practice any religion or not practice a religion. America bought the Louisiana Territory from France in 1803. The two parts of the US Congress are the Senate and the House of Representatives Dianne Feinstein is one of the two US senators from the state of California. Donald Trump is the current President of the United States. Mike Pence is the current Vice-President of the United States. Jerry Brown is the current Governor of California. The two major political parties are Democratic and Republican parties. The President's Cabinet advises the President. Ro Khanna is the US Representative of San Jose/Milpitas, California. Two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy are join a civic group and join a community group.   EXTRA CREDIT: Listen to a great interview with Vlade Divac! StoryCorps: Vivek and Vlade: From New Arrivals To Kings http://www.capradio.org/articles/2015/12/08/vivek-and-vlade-from-new-arrivals-to-kings/ Former Sacramento Kings center and current general manager Vlade Divac is interviewed by his boss, majority owner Vivek Ranadive, in this StoryCorps segment. They talk a little basketball but mostly focus on their shared experience as immigrants.

Happy Pascha! A Citizenship Quiz in Honor of Eastern Orthodox Christian Americans

In 451, 115 years before Prophet Muhammad, several men representing various facets of Christianity met in Chalcedon in modern Turkey. They were discussing how to define the true nature of Christ. They believed he was divine, yet he lived and died like a man. 3 weeks later, they decided Jesus Christ had two natures in one: he was both God and man. Any Christians who deviated from this belief were declared heretics which immediately led to a schism in the Church While most Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians accepted the Chalcedon decree, Armenian, Ethiopian, and Coptic Christians did not...Continue Reading

Dehumanization of the Enemy - Training of Soldiers to Kill - Sandhurst and Total War - Free-fire Zones in Iraq - Drugged Soldiers - World War I and II - Devaluation of Life - Star Wars movies, Faceless Troops, SWAT Teams - Use of Overwhelming Force - Acclimatization to Black Uniforms - Obliteration of Natural Instincts - Video Games Designed by Military - Creation of the New Western Culture - State Agencies become Authorities over the Public - Eugenics - Bulgaria and Eastern Europe, Eastern Orthodox Christians under Communism - Deliberate Policy of Starvation in Soviet System - Common Culture - Destruction of the Family Unit - Government Talking Directly to the Individual - Cultural Revolutions - Common World Culture - Parallel Government of Foundations and NGOs - National Service and Communitarianism - Soviet (Council) System - Propaganda - Pharmacological Control of Society - Psychological Testing of Children - CFR/RIIA, Free Trade Agreements, Economic Integration - European Union - Authoritarian System - Muzzling Journalists.

Chris Ionna Holland, an ex-Evangelical who was drawn to Mormonism as a teenager and (later) returned to her traditional Christian roots before becoming an Orthodox Christian (and taught how to evangelize Mormons), and Andrew Gusty (M.D.), a cradle Mormon, Temple worthy, an LDS High Priest, and Second Counselor to the Bishop, discuss their unique perspectives with Kevin Allen about Mormon theology, doctrines, and practices, as well as why they left the Mormon faith and became Eastern Orthodox Christians.

Eastern Orthodox Christians eat in a very specific way. With all the discussions about the various diets out there, is this traditional way of eating a way to share the faith? Rita answers in the affirmative and explains why.

Eastern Orthodox Christians eat in a very specific way. With all the discussions about the various diets out there, is this traditional way of eating a way to share the faith? Rita answers in the affirmative and explains why.

We are taught how to live and die in Christ as Eastern Orthodox Christians. In this edition of The Illumined Heart, Antiochian Auxiliary Bishop, the Right Reverend Thomas (Joseph) shares with us valuable lessons on how to prepare for and care for those who are near the end of their physical journey.

Fr. Hans Jacobse, editor of Orthodoxy Today and President of The American Orthodox Institute speaks with host Kevin Allen about whether Eastern Orthodox Christians need to engage in the moral and social war that is being waged in our culture. They will also talk about whether "Religious Right" leaning ex-Evangelical converts are taking over the Orthodox churches in America! Buckle your seat belts!

Fr. Thomas examines the four centuries of Muslim rule over Eastern Orthodox Christians.

Matthew notes how Eastern Orthodox Christians possess both the light (scriptures) and the path (ascetic, sacramental experiences).