Podcasts about elder paisios

The Pope wanted Elders Paisios and Porphyrios to visit him at the Vatican…how did they respond? 0:00 Beginning 0:21 The Invitation from the Pope and the Elders' Response —Commentary by Elder Savvas Hagiorite on the meaning of the Elders' Response— 1:00 The Pope is a heretic 1:56 Not dialogue, but prayer is helpful 2:58 The Pope believes the Orthodox do not possess the truth 3:44 St. Porphyrios: “The attitude of the Pope has always been to subject the Orthodox Church…” A reading from “Healing the Soul: St. Porphyrios of Kafsokalyvia as a Model for Our Lives" by Hieromonk Savvas of the Holy Mountain, p. 97-101.

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This is the first volume of the series 'Spiritual Counsels of the Elder Paisios of Mount Athos'. It is divided into four thematic parts. Each part is subdivided into chapters and every chapter into sections with the approprite subheadings; Part 1 Sin and the Devil Part 2 Modern Civilization Part 3 The Spirit of God and the Spirit of the World Part 4 The Church in our Times The Blessed Elder Paisios was born on 25th July 1924. From the time that he was a child, Elder Paisios lived an ascetic life, and was nourished by the lives of the Saints, whose feats he sought to imitate with great zeal and admirable precision. He practised unceasing prayer, cultivating all along the virtues of humility and love. He led an ascetic life on Mount Athos, in the Holy Monastery of Stomion in Konitsa, and on Mount Sinai in Egypt. He lived in obscurity, giving himself completely to God, and God in turn revealed him and gave him to the whole world. He guided, consoled, healed and granted peace to multitudes of people who sought him. His sanctified soul overflowed with divine love and his saintly face radiated the divine Grace. All day long, he tirelessly gathered the human pain and imparted divine consolation. He is the founder of the Holy Monastery of Saint John the Theologian in Souroti of Thessalonik, Greece, which he also guided spiritually for twenty-eight years (1967-1994). After suffering excruciating pains, which, as he used to say, benefited him more than the ascetic struggles of his entire life, he fell asleep in the Lord on 12 July 1994. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/athonite-audio/support

Hear many examples of how St. Paisios expressed his God-loving heart in daily life. These are expressions of true piety from a great saint of our times. A reading of pp. 414-421 from "Saint Paisios of Mount Athos" by Hieromonk Isaac -BUY "Saint Paisios of Mount Athos" by Hieromonk Isaac here: https://saintnektariosmonastery.com/Elder-Paisios-of-Mount-Athos -FIND an Orthodox parish and monastery near you: https://orthodoxyinamerica.org/ _______ From "Saint Paisios of Mount Athos": The Elder had an innate reverence, but he also cultivated it a great deal. He placed such emphasis on it that he once said that "reverence is the greatest virtue, because it attracts the Grace of God." To the Elder, reverence was the fear of God and spiritual sensitivity. Reverent people behave carefully and modestly, because they intensely feel the presence of God. "If someone neglects the little things," he taught, "the danger is that he will start neglecting greater, holier things. And then, without realizing it, rationalizing it all to himself—'This is nothing, that does not matter'—he can end up, God forbid, totally neglecting the things of God and becoming irreverent, arrogant, and atheistic." He paid attention to details, but in a way that was not it-Malistic or fastidiously formal. This was his own attitude toward God, which was not laid out in advance by any typicon of the Church: it was his personal disposition. He felt that his whole hermitage, not just his chapel, was sacred space. He arranged his cell, where he prayed, just like a little church. There was an iconostasis with many icons and a lamp that burned continuously, and he would cense and light many candles there. He had constructed his bed so that it was like a coffin, and he would say, "This is the altar of my cell." Icons and holy books never touched his bed, with the exception of an icon at its head. He did not think it was right to refer to the Holy Fathers of the Church simply by their first names; for example, as "Vasileios" or "Gregorios." "We talk about Father So-and-so' and say Father' to monks and clergy," he commented, "and is this how we are going to talk about the Holy Fathers?" _______ Orthodox Wisdom is dedicated to sharing the writings and lives of the Saints of the Orthodox Church. Glory to Jesus Christ! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orthodox-wisdom/message

Hear about Christ's revelations to St. Joseph and his brotherhood on the difficult and often contentious issue of the calendar and true Orthodoxy. As a zealot of Athos once confessed, "Fathers, we must admit that Elder Joseph was right. It is not possible for a rotten root to produce such fruits [i.e. his spiritual children]. A tree is known by its fruit.' Therefore, we must have been wrong, and Elder Joseph must have been right." 0:10 Background 5:14 Revelations from God 9:33 Exactitude with Obedience 12:19 The Encyclical of 1950 14:59 The Revelation (about grace with the New Calendarists) 16:19 Resistance 21:55 Geronda's Revelation 25:42 More Grace With the New-Calendarists Buy "My Elder Joseph the Hesychast" written by his disciple, Elder Ephraim of Arizona, here: https://stanthonysmonastery.org/products/my-elder-joseph-the-hesychast _______ For further study on the calendar issue, here is a short list of resources: -Elder Sophrony of Essex on the Calendar Issue: https://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2016/08/elder-sophrony-on-calendar-issue.html -Elder Paisios the Athonite on the Old Calendar Zealots: https://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2009/04/elder-paisios-athonite-on-old.html -Elder Ephraim of Arizona Exposes Old Calendarism: https://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2016/03/elder-ephraim-of-arizona-exposes-old.html -Ecumenism and Schismatic Old Calendarism, a letter by Blessed Elder Epiphanios Theodoropoulos: https://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2010/02/ecumenism-and-schismatic-old.html -Elder Philotheos Zervakos on the Schismatic Old Calendarists: https://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2010/01/elder-philotheos-on-schismatic-old.html -The Three Hierarchs and the Calendar Issue (Elder Cleopa Ilie): https://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2020/01/the-three-hierarchs-and-calendar-issue.html#more -Schismatic Old-Calendarism is an Anti-Patristic Stance by Monk Basil Gregoriates (a few problems in this text, but overall good): https://www.oodegr.com/english//ekklisia/sxismata/antipater1.htm Fr. Peter Heers has some very helpful videos addressing the temptation on the right: -The Zealot Jungle Which is Growing Up Around Us - Letter from Fr. Seraphim Rose https://youtu.be/4nNsx5UJIfo -On Canon 15 and Ceasing Commemoration of One's Own Bishop https://youtu.be/NY-9baGX0Lc -The Prophecy of St. Anatole the Younger (“Heretics will take over the Church”) https://youtu.be/v_1vmlsNDl4 -Patristic and Canonical Treatment Toward a Local Church Whose Hierarch Preaches Heresy https://youtu.be/jUM5ividbGE *Not everything on the JohnSanidopoulos.com website is faithfully Orthodox _______ St. Joseph's revelation from God about the Calendar issue: While I was praying, I saw a brilliant, beautiful church. It had a small exit on the side, and everyone was coming out of the church. In the courtyard, they were arguing. One person shouted, 'I am right!' Another person shouted, 'I am more right!' And a third person, 'I am with the true church!' This reveals that although they were arguing, they all belonged to a single church. They have dogmas in common, and they have grace, but they were arguing because they don't have an open mind and haven't achieved saint-hood. So how could I say now that the official Church of Greece is heretical and lacks God's grace? Should I call it heretical only because of the calendar? And should I say that their bishops are damned? I am with the old calendar, but I think differently from the old calendarists. Indeed, the calendar issue does not affect the salvation of the faithful because it is not a dogmatic issue. There can be differences between local churches in non-dogmatic issues of a liturgical or administrative nature. This does not deprive them of God's grace. _______ Orthodox Wisdom is dedicated to sharing the writings and lives of the Saints of the Orthodox Church. Glory to Jesus Christ! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/orthodox-wisdom/message

Sexual relations are one of the most common areas of conflict in marriage, even for Orthodox Christians, and the resulting problems can even lead to divorce. Yet many in the Orthodox Church avoid any discussion of sexual relations, thinking they have nothing to do with the spiritual life. What they fail to realize is that the reverse is true: the Holy Fathers, elders, Holy Scripture and the canons of the Orthodox Church consider this topic extremely important, and offer the faithful a wealth of information and guidance. Being ignorant of this, in a desperate attempt to save their marriages many seek help from those who virtually always give advice contrary to God's law. In this talk Father Kosmas uses the Holy Scriptures, the canons, and the teachings of various saints and contemporary elders to answer many questions that Orthodox Christians have concerning sexual relations in marriage. He especially emphasizes that abstinence from sexual relations, whether for spiritual or other reasons, often leads to many serious problems, even adultery and divorce. In particular, Saint Paul states that undiscerning abstinence during fasting periods, instead of bringing benefit, can become a source of temptation. The following questions are also discussed: why is it said that ‘Hell is full of proud people who have lived in virginity'? What days should a married couple abstain from sexual relations? How should couples fast and abstain from sexual relations when preparing for Holy Communion? Why were the Holy Fathers so concerned about married couples that abstained from relations for long periods of time? Breaking the food fast or breaking the marital fast: which does the Church consider more serious? In what ways can married people surpass the virtues of monastics? Other points covered in this talk include: the great need for spouses to discuss and be considerate of each other's sexual needs and weaknesses; Elder Paisios' surprising attitude toward strict spiritual fathers; how the holy canons give a married couple (and not the spiritual father) the right to ‘judge for themselves' with regard to sexual abstinence; Elder Paisios' advice to couples when one spouse has a more moderate level of sexual desire than the other; how the Church penances those who fail to abstain from marital relations on fast days; and the urgent need for books and preaching on the topic of marriage. Duration: 4hrs Visit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Despite great advancements in modern medicine, millions of people around the world suffer from bodily and mental illnesses, as well as spiritual illnesses caused by the passions and demonic influence. Many today are seeking help from practitioners of magic and New Age healing techniques. These techniques include homeopathy, hypnosis, yoga, crystal healing, meditation, faith healing, therapeutic touch, spiritual healing, channelling, and Reiki. Some of these “healers” have even claimed to be able to heal cancer and other serious illnesses.In this talk, Father Kosmas presents in detail the Orthodox Church's teaching regarding true and false healing. He explains how Christians need to be aware of the increasing acceptance some of these “healing” techniques are gaining in the medical world, and how one can unknowingly fall under the influence of the evil spirits behind them. Today more than ever Orthodox Christians need to know the Church's teaching regarding this very real danger, not only to protect themselves, but also their loved ones.The following questions are also discussed: what is the difference between demonic and physical sickness? Can magicians and New Age healers actually heal? How does the Church view those who seek healing directly from God rather than going to doctors? How do the saints view sickness and suffering? How should the sick deal with those who push them to seek healing from sorcerers and New Age healers? How does God use physical, mental, and demonic afflictions to bring us to salvation?Other points covered in this talk include: how a sick young man was “miraculously” healed and why he and his family later became Jehovah's Witnesses; how Elder Paisios exposed the true nature of “healings” by the demons and their servants; the story of a witch who claimed to cure sick people with the Cross and prayers to the Mother of God; how one “healer” approached a desperate mother whose daughter was out of control; and examples of those who preferred to suffer rather than turn to sorcerers and other so-called healers.Duration: 3hrs 58minsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

There can be no doubt that an all-out war is being waged against the holy sacrament of marriage. One of the main threats facing marriage is adultery, which is presented to us as normal and enjoyable, even a path to freedom and happiness. This message is emphasized in films, on television, in books and magazines, and on the internet. Online pornography, social networks such as Facebook, and even websites dedicated to cheating on your spouse all help to encourage adultery and the breakup of the marriage.In this talk, Father Kosmas draws on the writings and advice of various saints and contemporary elders to present the Orthodox Church's teaching on adultery, its causes, and ways of preventing it. In addition, he answers the question of whether it is better to divorce or to forgive one's spouse who has fallen into the serious sin of adultery, and what the adulterer's attitude should be. By knowing the Church's view on adultery and divorce, many marriages can be saved.The following questions are also discussed: how do adultery and other serious sins affect one's marriage and children? How does the Church penance adulterers? What is the Church's attitude toward those who cause divorce? How can abortion, unnatural sexual acts, and other serious sins lead to divorce? Why did Saint Nikodemos the Hagiorite place some blame on the innocent spouse of the adulterer? What did Elder Paisios say of spiritual fathers who apply the canons strictly?Other points covered in this talk include: the sufferings adultery brings upon a couple and their children; an account of a soldier whose wife gave birth while he was away; God's gift to a man who prayed for his wife who had become a prostitute; a saint who left his wife because of adultery; how a woman dealt with her openly adulterous husband; an account of a married couple who secretly fantasised about committing adultery; how pornography can lead to adultery and divorce; and Saint John Chrysostom's condemnation of adultery as evil and deserving of great punishment.Duration: 4hrsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Feminism is often portrayed as empowering women, and the women's rights movement has indeed achieved a number of positive changes for them. In recent decades, however, feminism has taken a different direction by attacking traditional marriage and gender roles. Many Orthodox Christians have been influenced by feminism to such an extent that they believe there is little or no difference between the genders, and have a distorted understanding of the roles of men and women in marriage. Although there are a number of reasons for the breakdown of marriage, the family, and society in general, the most significant reason is feminism. In the words of St John Chrysostom: “The love of husband and wife is the force that bonds society together.” In this talk Father Kosmas first examines many contemporary opinions regarding feminism. Using the Holy Scriptures, the holy canons, and the writings and advice of various saints and contemporary elders, he outlines the Orthodox Church's teaching on gender differences and the roles of men and women in marriage. By the end of the talk the listener will understand that the essence of feminism is actually a hatred of men, traditional marriage, the family, and true womanhood. The following questions are also discussed: how do feminists react to women who choose to stay at home to look after their families? How did Elder Paisios contradict the feminist view that there is no real difference between men and women? Why are more and more women choosing to marry men who want to be providers and protectors of the family? Why are many women afraid to openly denounce feminism? Other points covered in this talk include: the feminist ‘dogma' that women had no freedom for thousands of years until the recent feminist revolution; television's portrayal of men as dumb, incompetent, lazy and immature; how an increasing number of women are rejecting the feminist propaganda that they are superwomen who can do everything; the daughter of a famous feminist who rejected her mother's brainwashing; and how feminists do all in their power to hide from women the truth about the dangers of oral contraception.Duration: 4hrsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Over the last few decades a storm has been raging over the roles of men and women in marriage. Saint Paul's words regarding women have caused many to accuse Christianity of misogyny (the hatred of women). Two particularly controversial statements that he makes are “Wives should submit to their husbands in everything” and “The husband is the head of the wife.” The question arises: are these verses meant to be interpreted literally, and, if so, is it possible to fulfill them in these modern and ‘enlightened' times?In this talk Father Kosmas uses the writings and advice of the saints and elders to analyze exactly what Saint Paul meant by “Wives should submit to their husbands in everything” and “The husband is the head of the wife.” He emphasizes that failure to understand these two verses is the leading cause of failed marriages today. The following questions are also discussed: if the man is the head of the wife does that make her inferior to him? Does submission in the marriage mean slavery? Should a woman obey an irresponsible husband? Does the Church consider the head of the family to be responsible for its spiritual and material wellbeing? Why did the saints consider the wife an advisor to her husband? Is the statement ‘God created inequality' true? How does Christ's statement that “whoever wants to be first must be slave of all” apply to a married couple? Which great saint of the Church called gender equality silly? Other points covered in this talk include: how there cannot be two heads in a marriage; the link between divorce and husbands who do not lead and love their family; an explanation of Elder Paisios' words: “The husband is the captain of the household, but also the lowest laborer”; Saint John Chrysostom's advice to a man who complained that his wife did not love him; the shameful and inexcusable fact that many Protestants adhere to Christian principles of marriage better than most Orthodox; and an unfortunate example of a woman whose husband did not show her love.Duration: 4hrs Visit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

This talk is a continuation of Talk 58 - "Magic and Demonic Influence - Part 1". There are various views among Orthodox Christians regarding the topic of magic. Some believe that magic does not exist, while others believe that it does, and fear it to such an extent that anytime something bad happens to them they attribute it to magic. Still others believe that magic exists, but their ignorance of the subject leaves them unprotected. Few, however, understand the topic of magic according to the teachings of the Orthodox Church.In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the writings and advice of various saints and contemporary elders to present the Orthodox Church's teaching on how to protect oneself from magic and demonic influence. Though the talk focuses on married life, it applies to all Orthodox Christians. Ignorance of this topic has led to many disasters in people's lives, including the loss of souls.The following questions are also discussed: when does sorcery work and how can sorcery be defeated? What did Elder Paisios say to those who treated him like a psychic? Why would magicians advise people to participate in the Mysteries of the Church? How does Saint Nikodemos advise those who fear spells being cast during their marriage ceremony? Why are many of the clergy silent on the topic of magic? Is it true that magicians fear Orthodox priests? What are the symptoms of someone under the influence of magic?Other points covered in this talk include: an account of a man who began to hate his wife for no reason; an elder's advice to a man whose wife suddenly wanted to leave him; how prayers, holy oil and holy water can have power against evil spirits; an account of a suffering man who could not get rid of the amulet (charm) given to him by a magician; how not all demonic influence comes from magic; how pride and ego can be the cause of demonic influence; and the confusion between mental illness, physical illness, magic, and demonic influence.Duration: 3hrs 58minsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

The Holy Fathers teach that prayer, fasting and almsgiving are a means of acquiring the grace of God. Although many Orthodox Christians observe these holy practices, spirituality in the Church is steadily decreasing. While there are many reasons for this, the chief cause is that there are few spiritual guides with the gift of discernment. Because of this, pride and Pharisaism have spread like a disease among the faithful.In this talk, Father Kosmas explains why observing spiritual practices can actually be harmful and can even lead to the loss of one's soul. Citing the ancient and contemporary Fathers, he confirms that afflictions and illnesses have been given by God as a safer means of salvation for Orthodox Christians in the last times.The following questions are also discussed: can one be holy but unable to guide? Why has the Church become more lenient with regard to serious sins? What did Christ mean by “when you pray, do not use vain repetitions”? Why did 100 monks die from fasting? Why did Elder Paisios wish that he might lose his legs? What did Christ mean by “do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing”? What is the first gift God gives to those who struggle? Why should spiritual fathers be aware of those with cunning minds?Other points covered in this talk include: the dangers of self-imposed ascetic labors; the purpose and importance of imposing penances in confession; why many people fast with no benefit; the ecumenists' blasphemy against the miracle of Saint Euphemia at the Fourth Ecumenical Council; heresiarchs that were known for their prayer and asceticism; an explanation of Saint John the Baptist's words, “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance”; and why Christ continually warned against vainglory.Talk 43 duration: 3hrs 14minsChanting duration: 9mins (Service to St Euphemia)Visit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

This talk is a continuation of Talk 17: “Counsels of Elder Paisios of Mount Athos”. Elder Paisios struggled intensely against his own passions and the demons. He especially struggled to acquire the virtues of obedience, humility, repentance and love. Because of these virtues he achieved such great sanctity that the Holy Spirit came to dwell in him, and he was granted the greatest gift of all: discernment. It was with this gift that he was able to help and guide a great number of people.In this talk, Father Kosmas offers further insight into the elder's deep understanding of Christian life and struggle, and of the obstacles that arise to hinder us along the path to salvation. He explains that Orthodox Christians need to study closely the counsels of this great elder, who lived in our own times and hence was acquainted with the many problems that we face in the world today.The following questions are also discussed: why is it important for family members to have the same spiritual father? How does getting enough sleep help with depression? Can strict spiritual fathers negatively affect their spiritual children? How can possessed people be helped? Why is it unwise to be “glued” to one's parents? What is the demon of television? Why should parents be careful not to praise their children too highly? How can negative traits sometimes benefit one's spiritual life? Can cursing have evil effects? Does medication always help those with mental illnesses?Other points covered in this talk include: how children resent overbearing parents; blaming our parents for our faults and passions; the female sex's preoccupation with physical appearance; the limitations of psychiatrists; the reason for today's lack of elders; the effects of lack of sleep on one's spiritual life; the potentially damaging effects of theological studies; the Antichrist; the importance of preparation before confession or seeking advice; and the importance of a close relationship with a spiritual father.Duration: 3hrs 28minsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Elder Paisios was a simple monk who lived on Mount Athos in Greece. Leading a holy life, he became filled with the wisdom of God, and was able during his lifetime to bring great benefit to countless people with his counsels, which have since been translated into many languages. As with the elders of old, people would flock to Mount Athos from all over the world to visit the elder and receive his advice.In this talk, Father Kosmas examines a variety of Elder Paisios' counsels. He emphasises that the elder's counsels are particularly valuable to us because the elder was our contemporary (reposing in 1994), and hence was acquainted with many of the problems and sources of spiritual confusion that we face today.The following questions are also discussed: does God ever refuse to forgive us? Is the evil eye fact or superstition? Is zeal to convert others always a good thing? How can priests help those who are under the influence of cults and gurus? Is there such a thing as a “white lie”? Can saying the Jesus Prayer ever be spiritually damaging? Is there any benefit to the family when a young child dies? Do the sins of parents affect their children? Does brainwashing exist in the Church?Other points covered in this talk include: the need for priests to speak out on the occult and sorcery; feminists and abortion; the need for discernment when dealing with dreams, apparitions and demonic influence; the increasing disrespect of children for their parents; how Orthodox Christians should view The Da Vinci Code; children with physical or mental disabilities; the importance of having Orthodox Christian doctors and psychiatrists; and the spiritual benefit of the world's economic crisis.Duration: 2hrs 49minsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Elder Paisios (1924–1994) was a rare ascetic and man of prayer in our modern world. As a God-bearing elder he had the prophetic gift of being able to see into people's souls, and from his hermitage on the Holy Mountain he guided and healed thousands of people who came to him from all over the world for relief from their spiritual and physical infirmities. The life of this great elder silences those who believe that saints are a myth or that there are no longer any saints in our times.In this talk, Father Kosmas relates the experiences of a number of people who visited the elder, recounting their problems, concerns and questions and the elder's response in each case. In addition to vividly illustrating the gift of eldership, the wide range of topics discussed in the course of these encounters is sure to interest anyone trying to lead a Christian life in this age of religious confusion.The following questions are also discussed: can our sins affect our loved ones? How can one be “tied to the devil”? Why does God allow incurable illnesses? Is it always beneficial to witness a miracle? Is walking on water always a sign of holiness? Why did Elder Paisios refuse to see one person? How did he succeed in preventing a young man from committing suicide? Why can it be dangerous to ignore an elder's advice? Can all holy people guide souls?Other points covered in this talk include: the difference between the clairvoyance of an Orthodox elder and that of a psychic or medium; the effects of online pornography on one's spiritual life; intellectual spirituality and pride of the mind; trusting one's thoughts; mental illness and deception; how to distinguish between real and fake or demonic miracles; practicing obedience even to non-Orthodox; an explanation of UFO abductions; and a young man's encounter with demons on Mount Athos.Duration: 3hrs 19minsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Elder Paisios may rightly be considered one of the most popular elders of our times. Thousands of people from all over the world flocked to him to receive guidance, consolation, hope, and insight into their problems. He healed sicknesses of soul and body, warned against dangers, and revealed the will of God. Using the gift of clairvoyance, he could see events both present and future. With the publishing of his remarkable life and teachings in many languages and the increasing number of miracles at his gravesite, he has become well known throughout the Orthodox world.In this talk, Father Kosmas recounts the life and times of Elder Paisios from his youth until his blessed repose in 1994. He emphasises that by studying the life of this great elder one draws closer to him spiritually, thereby receiving help through his example, teachings, and prayerful intercessions.The following questions are also discussed: should uneducated monks instruct educated laymen and clergy? Why is humility so important? Are priests who are subject to passions capable of guiding souls? Should we blame ourselves for the evil in the world? Can hopelessness lead one to God? What is joyful sorrow? Are we to blame for ecumenism? Should prayers be offered for those who are committing grave sins? God or medicine: which to choose? What are ‘religious liars'?Other points covered in this talk include: fantasy in the spiritual life; robotic obedience; the difficulty of understanding spiritual matters with the mind; working on Sundays and feast days; love of prayer; abusing children with TV; ignoring the Church; the difficulty of loving our neighbour; sacrificing our lives for others; the dangers of trusting our thoughts; the power of patience; the importance of unceasing prayer for the world; the benefit of seeing our own weaknesses; large families in our times; one saint's repose; and how striving for holiness can be dangerous.Duration: 3hrsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

This talk is a continuation of Talk 24: "Elders vs. Religious Intellectuals: Whom to Follow?" Asceticism is the most important aspect of Orthodox spirituality, for it is the path by which one acquires the grace of God. But the holy elders of our times teach that today there is a lack, and even an absence, of asceticism in the Church. Without asceticism, Christians tend to ignore the heart and the conscience, and instead use logic and reason in spiritual matters. The question then arises: what is true asceticism?In this talk, Father Kosmas explains that true asceticism is the struggle to keep the commandments of Christ, not simply following various external rules and abstaining from certain foods. He goes on to list many aspects of everyday life that can be considered ascetical and are therefore spiritually beneficial. By struggling to keep the commandments, one can acquire grace and thereby avoid the pitfall of using logic and reason in spiritual matters. For as we read in Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit only abides in those who keep Christ's commandments.The following questions are also discussed: why did Elder Paisios call those clerics sick who used psychology to help souls? What should be our attitude towards atheists? Why are Christians who complain about the evil in the world called “saltless”? How does God humble the proud? Should we condemn drug addicts, prostitutes, fornicators, homosexuals, alcoholics, etc.? Why are priests increasingly referring their spiritual children to psychologists? How should we view abuse of men by women?Other points covered in this talk include: an “illogical” explanation for the death of infants and children; how studies in academic theology can produce unbelievers; how mental illness can be viewed as a spiritual struggle and even martyrdom; how spiritual progress comes when we stop focusing on our personal problems; and the wonderful example of a woman who endured abuse from her husband.Duration: 3hrsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

In the Orthodox Church today there is a growing trend towards using logic and reason to explain miracles, mysteries, Divine Providence and demonic phenomena. This school of thought has existed in the Western Church for centuries, and is known as rationalism. The disease of rationalism is now being spread in the Orthodox Church by some clergy and theologians, many of whom have studied in the West. But Orthodox Christianity cannot be comprehended solely through reason and logic.In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the teachings of Elder Paisios of Mount Athos (†1994) to explain that rationalism comes from a partial or complete lack of faith, and has its roots in pride, ego and self-trust. Since the Great Schism, there has always been within the Orthodox Church a battle between those of the true Orthodox spirit and those of this Western spirit. Father Kosmas emphasises that Orthodox Christians need to embrace the spirit of Orthodoxy as passed on to us by the saints and the elders, particularly those saints and elders who have lived during our times.The following questions are also discussed: is pride the cause of many mental illnesses? Why does God allow mental illness? Why are we blind to God's intervention in our lives? Are there people whose spiritual lives exist only in their minds? Why did one well-educated priestmonk become mentally ill? What does the elder mean by “spiritual headache”? Can overindulging in reading spiritual books be dangerous?Other points covered in this talk include: how human logic in the spiritual life can lead to denial of divine and demonic supernatural phenomena; how God stopped a man who wanted to visit a fortune-teller; a simple monk who performed a miracle by praying to “Saint Ascension”; the miracle of the Holy Fire in Jerusalem; God's judgement as opposed to human judgement; and the need to beware of priests and theologians who suffer from rationalism.Duration: 3hrs 2minsVisit our website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com

Welcome to EPISODE SEVEN of my channel and podcast: The Devotional Hearts Show! This episode was recorded on September 7, 2021 for my YouTube Channel: "A Devotional Heart".On this episode of my show, I discuss Eastern Orthodox Christianity with James Kourtides: Orthodox Christian, husband, father, and content creator.  We talk about his return to Orthodoxy and the fact that Orthodox Christianity transforms lives!Topics include: His return to Orthodoxy after years of following other paths, Symbolism, Icons, Orthodox books, and Family!James Kourtides' Youtube ChannelBooks We Mentioned:"Christ the Eternal Tao"  by Hieromonk Damascene"Orthodoxy and the Religion of the Future" by Father Seraphim Rose I also recommend "The Gurus, the Young Man, and the Elder Paisios"by Dionysios FarasiotisMy channel glorifies our Creator by sharing inspirational interviews with devoted Christians.  My guests will tell their stories of transformation in a life with Christ and offer guidance to those who are seeking Him.  Many of my guests are content creators who are spreading the beauty of Christianity online.At the time of this upload, I do  not receive any support from ads.  If you would like to donate to my mission you can use this PayPal link, or you can use Venmo @ADHeartAre you a woman who is interested in the Orthodox Church and have no idea where to start?  Follow my IG: @A.Devotional.Heart where I review books and share content from other Orthodox Christians.  The focus is femininity, softening our hearts while turning away from the traps of this world, and a life in service to God.You can also request information from me about my Faith-Based Coaching practice for women by messaging me on IG.I plan to release at least two videos per week; so please like, share and Subscribe to my YouTube channel.  Hit the bell to be notified of my future interviews and videos.DISCLAIMER: I am not an expert, apologist, authority, spokesperson, or leader on/in the Orthodox Church.Rude or confrontational comments will be deleted.Orthodox Christians are welcome to correct any of my errors or misunderstandings.ALL GLORY TO GOD FOR THIS CHANNEL AND MY OTHER CONTENT!Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/ALIGNEDVISIONARY?country.x=US&locale.x=en_US)

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and The Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man, and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 9

The Gurus, The Young Man, And Elder Paisios Part 10

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 8

The Gurus, The Young Man, And Elder Paisios Part 8

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 8

The Gurus The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 7

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 6

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 5

The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios Part 4

The Gurus, The Young Man, And Elder Paisios Continuation

Continuation of The Gurus, The Young Man, And Elder Paisios by Dionysios Farasiotis

Part 1 of The Gurus, The Young Man and Elder Paisios by Dionysios Farasiotis

Be the bee. Focus on the beauty that God has put in everyone and everything. For more on the bee metaphor, see St. Basil's Address to Young Men on Greek Literature and Advice from Elder Paisios.

"Fr. Peter Heers is a Greek Orthodox priest with a doctorate in Dogmatic Theology from the Theological School of the University of Thessalonica, where he has also completed his undergraduate studies and Master’s Degree in Dogmatic Theology. He is the rector and spiritual father of the parish of the Holy Prophet Elias in Petrokerasa, a small village in the mountains outside of Thessalonica, Greece. In 2014 he was made Protopresbyteros and Spiritual Father of the Diocese of Ierissou and Agion Oros.Fr. Peter is the author of The Missionary Origins of Modern Ecumenism: Milestones Leading up to 1920, as well as the newly released title, in Greek, The Ecclesiological Renovation of the Second Vatican Council: An Orthodox Examination of Rome’s Ecumenical Theology Regarding Baptism and the Church.Fr. Peter is also the translator of several books, including the Life of Elder Paisios and the Epistles of Elder Paisios, The Truth of our Faith (vols 1&2) by Elder Cleopa and Apostle to Zaire: The Life of Fr. Cosmas of Grigoriou, as well as the best-selling children’s book From I-ville to You-ville.Fr. Peter, in addition to being the founder and current head of Uncut Mountain Press, was also the founder and first editor of “Divine Ascent, A Journal of Orthodox Faith.” He is also the host of the online podcast, Postcards from Greece found at Ancient Faith Radio, and a regular speaker to parish groups in the United States and Canada."His new book, The Ecclesiological Renovation of Vatican II: An Orthodox Examination of Rome’s Ecumenical Theology Regarding Baptism and the Church is now available and functions as the topic of our interview. Fr. Peter enlightens us on the history of Augustinian theology and its influence on western sacramentology and ecclesiology and how this blossomed in full by the time of Vatican II. Consequently, Vatican II utilized the new theology of liberal theologians like Yves Congar (and even John Calvin) and others to extend the doctrine of the Church into relativized non-existence through "minimalism," exemplified in the absurdities and contradictions of the manifold ecumenical manifestations, most notably the coming "Pan-Orthodox Synod" and the review of the ecumenical documents to be discussed. The fist half of this interview is free, while the full interview can be obtained by subscribing to JaysAnalysis.com at the PayPal link for 4.95 a month.http://www.jaysanalysis.com

Fr. John shares about humbly using our spiritual gifts, from Romans 12:1-13. Please note: "At one point in the sermon I mentioned Arsenius the Athonite, but actually meant to refer to the Elder Paisios, and the book I referred to is http://www.amazon.com/Elder-Paisios-Mount-Athos-Isaac/dp/960897643X"

Fr. John shares about humbly using our spiritual gifts, from Romans 12:1-13. Please note: "At one point in the sermon I mentioned Arsenius the Athonite, but actually meant to refer to the Elder Paisios, and the book I referred to is http://www.amazon.com/Elder-Paisios-Mount-Athos-Isaac/dp/960897643X"

Fr. Gregory shares a word from Elder Paisios of the Holy Mountain and his explanation of Matthew 6:22-23.

Fr. John shares about humbly using our spiritual gifts, from Romans 12:1-13. Please note: "At one point in the sermon I mentioned Arsenius the Athonite, but actually meant to refer to the Elder Paisios, and the book I referred to is http://www.amazon.com/Elder-Paisios-Mount-Athos-Isaac/dp/960897643X"

Citing the writings of Elder Paisios of the Holy Mountain, Elissa demonstrates how the conveniences we have invented to make life easy have actually made it quite a bit harder.

Frederica discusses the book The Gurus, the Young Man, and Elder Paisios by Dionysios Farasiotis.

Do we need external quiet to have internal quiet? Jeff shares wisdom from Elder Paisios on the subject.

Be the bee. Focus on the beauty that God has put in everyone and everything. For more on the bee metaphor, see St. Basil's Address to Young Men on Greek Literature and Advice from Elder Paisios.

Fr. Peter answers questions about Elder Paisios at St. John the Wonderworker Orthodox Church in Atlanta, Georgia.

Fr. Peter speaks at St. John the Wonderworker Orthodox Church in Atlanta, Georgia, about the life and ministry of Elder Paisios of Mount Athos. Click here to see a video of the talk.

Fr. Peter announces a number of talks he will be giving during a prolonged stay in the U.S. this spring, most of which have to do with the book The Life of Elder Paisios of the Holy Mountain.

Elder Paisios constantly stressed the power of positive thinking. In this episode, the listener will learn the effects of poor stress management on the body and how positive thinking is important for our health and weight management.

Elder Paisios constantly stressed the power of positive thinking. In this episode, the listener will learn the effects of poor stress management on the body and how positive thinking is important for our health and weight management.

Frederica discusses the book The Gurus, the Young Man, and Elder Paisios by Dionysios Farasiotis.

Jane G. Meyer reviews From I-ville to You-ville: The Timeless Wisdom of Elder Paisios of the Holy Mountain for Children and Adults by Mersine Vigopoulou, published by Uncut Mountain Press (2006).

Katherine Hyde reviews this gripping spiritual memoir by Dionysios Farasiotis, published by St. Herman of Alaska Brotherhood (2008).