Podcasts about holy child

John Farley Pastor Teacher Sunday, December 22, 2024 The Light of the world We live in dark times, in a dark world. None of this took the LORD by surprise. The world has always been a dark place. Joh 16:33 Eph 6:12 We also live in a dark time. 2Ti 3:1-5 Christmas is all about light breaking through the darkness. In the midst of this darkness, there came a marvelous Light. Luk 1:26-38 John would prepare the hearts of the Jews for the arrival of their Messiah and Lord. Luk 1:67-69, 76-79 Now the first part of verse 79 is a quotation from the book of the prophet Isaiah. Isa 9:1-2 Seven hundred years after Isaiah lived, Zacharias quoted Isaiah 9:2. Isa 9:6-7 In the fullness of time, this Holy Child, Jesus, son of David, Son of God,... for full notes: http://www.lbible.org/index.php?proc=msg&sf=vw&tid=1718

Anniversary Solo Episode ⚜️After my spontaneous Solo Episode became the most listened to Episode of Season 2 of VICTORIOUS YOU within less than 7 days and received so many touching testimonials, I felt called to do another Solo Episode for the „1 Year Anniversary“ of my Podcast ~ and I recorded it on the day or better the late night of the Anniversary.Just me, my mic and total silence … a moment in Kairos Time …Honestly before I thought I would record just 20 minutes or so but time was flying …As I have recorded a very special Christmas Edition in 2023, this is a very different Episode ~ and still I speak about Christmas and the Holy Child.And at the very end of the Episode you find a little contemplation/meditation with the Holy Child ⚜️Further in this Episode I talk about:⚜️ 3D and the False Matrix ⚜️ The „Rauhnächte“ (Rough/Dark Nights) versus the Holy Nights⚜️ The Power of Jesus Christ and the 12 Legions of Angels⚜️ Christ Consciousness and Oneness Consciousness And once more I was in a different sphere … a Transmission Sphere … when I recorded this Episode.I hope you can dive as deep as I did recording it for you!And not only listen to the words but the energy and the frequencies and the pauses …Enjoy listening

In this special episode, we're bringing back two cherished holiday-themed recordings from our archives. Whether it's the miracle of light, the birth of a Holy Child, or the warmth of family traditions, December celebrations connect us to a shared human experience rooted in vulnerability to nature's rhythms. First, in this excerpt from the December episode of Mary's Slow Living Through the Seasons series from 2023, Mary reflects on the winter solstice and its significance across cultures, exploring what we share with our ancestors during the darkest days of the year. Discover the deeper meaning behind festive traditions and how modern celebrations can sometimes pull us away from the natural cycle of the seasons. Then, we revisit a delightful musical performance from the Lady Farmer Archives. Recorded in Seneca, Maryland, in November 2020, this casual fireside set by the Missing Sister Band warms the soul with soulful harmonies. Topics Covered: The winter solstice as a universal human experience, excerpted from Slow Living Through the Seasons Yuletide reflections and our connection to ancient traditions The story behind holiday symbols like the wreath A soulful musical set featuring holiday-inspired covers Music Setlist: "White Flag" by Joseph "Helplessly Hoping" by Crosby, Stills, and Nash "Strangers" by The Kinks "Baby Where You Are" by Ted Lucas "Dogs Laying Around Playing" by My Bubba "Long Time Traveller" by Sacred Harp Performed by the Missing Sister Band: Vocals: Anna Glenn, Charlotte Henderson, Shannon Beston (guitar), Caitlin Robinson, Emma Kingsley Guitar: Cameron Palmer Audio/Visuals: David Smith, Emma Kingsley, Mary Kingsley Editing: Emma Kingsley Tune in for an episode that celebrates the beauty of gathering, the wonder of the solstice, and the joy of shared music. Happy Holidays!

In this special episode, we're bringing back two cherished holiday-themed recordings from our archives. Whether it's the miracle of light, the birth of a Holy Child, or the warmth of family traditions, December celebrations connect us to a shared human experience rooted in vulnerability to nature's rhythms. First, in this excerpt from the December episode of Mary's Slow Living Through the Seasons series from 2023, Mary reflects on the winter solstice and its significance across cultures, exploring what we share with our ancestors during the darkest days of the year. Discover the deeper meaning behind festive traditions and how modern celebrations can sometimes pull us away from the natural cycle of the seasons. Then, we revisit a delightful musical performance from the Lady Farmer Archives. Recorded in Seneca, Maryland, in November 2020, this casual fireside set by the Missing Sister Band warms the soul with soulful harmonies. Topics Covered: The winter solstice as a universal human experience, excerpted from Slow Living Through the Seasons Yuletide reflections and our connection to ancient traditions The story behind holiday symbols like the wreath A soulful musical set featuring holiday-inspired covers Music Setlist: "White Flag" by Joseph "Helplessly Hoping" by Crosby, Stills, and Nash "Strangers" by The Kinks "Baby Where You Are" by Ted Lucas "Dogs Laying Around Playing" by My Bubba "Long Time Traveller" by Sacred Harp Performed by the Missing Sister Band: Vocals: Anna Glenn, Charlotte Henderson, Shannon Beston (guitar), Caitlin Robinson, Emma Kingsley Guitar: Cameron Palmer Audio/Visuals: David Smith, Emma Kingsley, Mary Kingsley Editing: Emma Kingsley Tune in for an episode that celebrates the beauty of gathering, the wonder of the solstice, and the joy of shared music. Happy Holidays!

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

This week we look at at Mark 9:30-37, in which Jesus teaches his followers about discipleship, service and humility. He invites them to welcome him as they would a child.   © Kate Heichler, 2024. To receive Water Daily by email each morning, subscribe here.  Here are the bible readings for next Sunday. 

Scripture: Luke 2:39-52

Please join us for “Reframing Behavior: A New Program to Bring the Neuroscience of Behavior to Schools” with Susan Driscoll.Susan Driscoll is President of Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) and oversees the development of all products and programs, the trainers who deliver them, and for the support and care of the clients who use them. She joined CPI in 2017 and is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and in 2022 was named a Director of the company.Prior to joining CPI, Susan served as President and CEO of Wolters Kluwer Health, Professional, and Education, where she transformed the business from a traditional book publisher to a subscription-based healthcare content business. She has extensive experience in both healthcare and higher education publishing and training.Susan also has startup experience: prior to joining Wolters Kluwer, Susan was CEO of iUniverse, an internet-based provider of self-publishing services that was funded by Barnes & Noble and Warburg Pincus.Her expertise is broad. In addition to her CEO experience, Susan has served as VP of Operations, VP Strategy, VP Marketing, and VP of Product and Technology. She has direct experience in global markets, including India and China. Susan was named one of the Top 50 Women in Publishing in 2009, and served on the Executive Board of the Association of American Publishers. Currently, she serves on the board of ISA, the Association of Learning Providers, and is a trustee of The School of the Holy Child in Rye, New York.Susan is a graduate of The University of Notre Dame and currently serves as Chair of the Advisory Council for the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art at Notre Dame.Support the show

EPIPHANY SUNDAY ORDER OF WORSHIP Pastor: Rev. Kendra Balliet Organist: Jim Ross Prelude - “Good Christian Men Rejoice”- Willard Nevins Welcome *Call to Worship - God Loved the World (St. Crispin LM) Leader: God loved the world so that he gave, His only Son the lost to save, People: That all who would in him believe, should everlasting life receive. Leader: Christ is the solid rock of faith, who was made flesh and suffered death. People: All who confide in him alone are built on this chief cornerstone. Opening Hymn - “There’s a Song in the Air” #249 *Lighting of the Advent Wreath Leader: Out of his grace and love for the world, God promised to send a Savior. Through the inspired words of the prophets, the promise was repeated to generation after generation. The prophet Isaiah spoke of the Child to come: People: “To us a child is born, to us a son is given.” Leader: Isaiah also prophesied that the child, the son, would be born of a virgin: People: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Emmanuel.” Leader: The name Emmanuel means “God with us.” In Jesus Christ, the Holy Child of Bethlehem, the son of Mary and Son of God, God himself was born among us. People: God is with us! (Three purple, one pink, and one white candles are lit on the Advent wreath.) *Confessional Prayer Pastor: Let us confess our sins to God and ask his forgiveness. People: Almighty God, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus our Lord, we recognize our need for a Savior. We have often turned away from your will and your Word. We have listened to the temptations of the world around us. Instead of walking in obedience to you, we follow our own sinful desires. We do not love others as we should. Have mercy on us and forgive us. Pastor: In Jesus, God himself walked on earth. He took onto himself the penalty of death that we deserved for our sins. He rose in triumph over death. By God’s grace through faith in Jesus, we have forgiveness for our sins and the gift of eternal life. I announce to you that your sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. People: We give thanks and praise to Jesus, the Lord Emmanuel, who is God with us! Response “Light the Advent Candle” #2090 vs 5 Children's Chat Hymn “We Three Kings” #254 Blessing of the Gifts for the Babies in Honor of the Baby Music Ministry & Offertory -“Little Jesus Sweetly Sleep” – Richard Warner Doxology (#95) & Prayer of Gratitude Scripture- John 1:1-14 Series-The Light of Grace Sermon – “Presence: Angels" Hymn “Amazing Grace” #378 vs. 6 Joys/Concerns Pastoral Prayer/Lord’s Prayer Closing Hymn - “The First Noel” #245 Action Steps & Benediction Pastor: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God … People: And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Pastor: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. People: Amen. Postlude - “A Festal Fanfare” – J.S. Bach The flowers on the altar today are given to the glory of God and in honor of the birthday of Carolyn Turnbull by her sister Joyce Minnis.

EPIPHANY SUNDAY ORDER OF WORSHIP Pastor: Rev. Kendra Balliet Organist: Jim Ross Prelude - “Good Christian Men Rejoice”- Willard Nevins Welcome *Call to Worship - God Loved the World (St. Crispin LM) Leader: God loved the world so that he gave, His only Son the lost to save, People: That all who would in him believe, should everlasting life receive. Leader: Christ is the solid rock of faith, who was made flesh and suffered death. People: All who confide in him alone are built on this chief cornerstone. Opening Hymn - “There’s a Song in the Air” #249 *Lighting of the Advent Wreath Leader: Out of his grace and love for the world, God promised to send a Savior. Through the inspired words of the prophets, the promise was repeated to generation after generation. The prophet Isaiah spoke of the Child to come: People: “To us a child is born, to us a son is given.” Leader: Isaiah also prophesied that the child, the son, would be born of a virgin: People: “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Emmanuel.” Leader: The name Emmanuel means “God with us.” In Jesus Christ, the Holy Child of Bethlehem, the son of Mary and Son of God, God himself was born among us. People: God is with us! (Three purple, one pink, and one white candles are lit on the Advent wreath.) *Confessional Prayer Pastor: Let us confess our sins to God and ask his forgiveness. People: Almighty God, as we celebrate the birth of Jesus our Lord, we recognize our need for a Savior. We have often turned away from your will and your Word. We have listened to the temptations of the world around us. Instead of walking in obedience to you, we follow our own sinful desires. We do not love others as we should. Have mercy on us and forgive us. Pastor: In Jesus, God himself walked on earth. He took onto himself the penalty of death that we deserved for our sins. He rose in triumph over death. By God’s grace through faith in Jesus, we have forgiveness for our sins and the gift of eternal life. I announce to you that your sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. People: We give thanks and praise to Jesus, the Lord Emmanuel, who is God with us! Response “Light the Advent Candle” #2090 vs 5 Children's Chat Hymn “We Three Kings” #254 Blessing of the Gifts for the Babies in Honor of the Baby Music Ministry & Offertory -“Little Jesus Sweetly Sleep” – Richard Warner Doxology (#95) & Prayer of Gratitude Scripture- John 1:1-14 Series-The Light of Grace Sermon – “Presence: Angels" Hymn “Amazing Grace” #378 vs. 6 Joys/Concerns Pastoral Prayer/Lord’s Prayer Closing Hymn - “The First Noel” #245 Action Steps & Benediction Pastor: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God … People: And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. Pastor: The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. People: Amen. Postlude - “A Festal Fanfare” – J.S. Bach The flowers on the altar today are given to the glory of God and in honor of the birthday of Carolyn Turnbull by her sister Joyce Minnis.

Dell deChant “A Child Would Know” by Leddy Hammock “How would you know?” a child was asked, “If while you were at play, With several children, new to you, you heard a whisper say: ‘One of these is the Holy child, the Christ Child, come again, To see if you would recognize your wise and gentle Friend– Who might appear as boy or girl, with unexpected looks, With hair and skin and clothes unlike the Christ Child seen in books.' The child was still a moment, then looked up and smiled to say: “Of course I'd know the Holy Child. I'd know that right away. The way that Child treats others, taking turns and playing fair; The way the Child is kind and good–I'd know that anywhere. The way the Child would make me feel–I'd be so glad to show The Christ Child on the playground–someone any child would know.”

At the announcement of His incarnation, the Lord Christ received the name Jesus and three of the many titles attributed to Him: the Son of the Most High, the Holy Child, and the Son of God. Each name and title helps us understand the person and work of this Savior, King, and God incarnate.

CHRISTMAS EVE ORDER OF WORSHIP Pastor: Rev. Kendra Balliet Organist: Jim Ross PRELUDE - Fantasy on "Puer Nobis"- Richard Warner WELCOME *CALL TO WORSHIP - God Loved the World (St. Crispin LM) Leader: God loved the world so that he gave, His only Son the lost to save, People: That all who would in him believe, should everlasting life receive. Leader: Christ is the solid rock of faith, who was made flesh and suffered death. People: All who confide in him alone are built on this chief cornerstone. *OPENING HYMN “Joy to the World” #246 *LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH Leader: Tonight, we light the center candle of the Advent wreath as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Light of the world. He came to bring us hope, peace, joy and love. He came to bring us salvation through faith in his name. People: Glory to God in the highest! Leader: On the first Christmas night, shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem saw the light of God’s glory and heard the glad news: “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” People: Glory to God in the highest! Leader: The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to see the Holy Child. Tonight, we share the joy of those shepherds as, by faith, we too gather to worship our Savior. People: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! (Three purple, one pink, and center white candles are lit on the Advent wreath.) *CONFESSIONAL PRAYER Pastor: On this holy night, let us confess our sins to God and ask his forgiveness. People: Almighty God, although we gather to glorify your holy name, we too often seek glory for ourselves. We follow our own selfish desires instead of loving and serving others as we should. We try to exalt ourselves instead of giving glory to our Lord and Savior. Have mercy on us and forgive us for Jesus’ sake. Lead us by your Spirit to glorify your name in our thoughts, words and actions. Pastor: In mercy and love, God sent his Son to be our Savior. The Holy Child of Bethlehem was born to die as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world. By grace through faith in Jesus, we rejoice in God’s favor and in his peace. I announce to you that your sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. People: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! RESPONSE “Light the Advent Candle” #2090 vs 5 HYMN “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly” #229 CHILDREN'S CHAT MUSIC MINISTRY/OFFERTORY - Only a Baby Came-Natalie Sleeth (Virtual Choir) DOXOLOGY/PRAYER OF GRATITUDE SCRIPTURE READING 1: Luke 2:1-7 HYMN “O Little Town of Bethlehem” #230 vs. 1 SCRIPTURE READING 2: Luke 2:8-14 HYMN “Angels We Have Heard on High” #238 vs. 1-2 SCRIPTURE READING 3: Luke 2:15-20 HYMN “Away in a Manger” #217 vs. 1 SERIES: The Light of Grace SERMON: “Glory: Shepherds” HYMN - “Amazing Grace” #378 vs. 1 COMMUNION CLOSING HYMN "Silent Night, Holy Night" #239 ACTIONS STEPS & BENEDICTION Pastor: And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. People: And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” Pastor: And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, People: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Pastor: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. People: Amen. POSTLUDE - All My Heart this Night Rejoices- Carson Cooman Thank you for sharing in this worship service. Please continue to stay in touch through our website (stoneumc.org) and/or by following us on Facebook (Stone UMC). If you have joys or concerns that you would like lifted up in prayer, please fill out the Prayer Card in the pew, on the website, share them by contacting us at 814-724-6736 or churchoffice@stoneumc.org The poinsettias on the altar today are given to the glory of God in honor of Jessica & Cruz Dragosavac, Pat Lafferty, the Shields family, Garald & Phyllis Stockton and in loving memory of Michael Allan Dallas, Genevieve Dallas, Finney family members, Jonathan A. Pears, Byron Ray, Ron & Marlene Burchfield, Donald Shea, Alice & Clarence Cornell, Deanna Stright, Helen & Stanley Shea and Lois Snow.

CHRISTMAS EVE ORDER OF WORSHIP Pastor: Rev. Kendra Balliet Organist: Jim Ross PRELUDE - Fantasy on "Puer Nobis"- Richard Warner WELCOME *CALL TO WORSHIP - God Loved the World (St. Crispin LM) Leader: God loved the world so that he gave, His only Son the lost to save, People: That all who would in him believe, should everlasting life receive. Leader: Christ is the solid rock of faith, who was made flesh and suffered death. People: All who confide in him alone are built on this chief cornerstone. *OPENING HYMN “Joy to the World” #246 *LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT WREATH Leader: Tonight, we light the center candle of the Advent wreath as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Light of the world. He came to bring us hope, peace, joy and love. He came to bring us salvation through faith in his name. People: Glory to God in the highest! Leader: On the first Christmas night, shepherds in the fields near Bethlehem saw the light of God’s glory and heard the glad news: “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” People: Glory to God in the highest! Leader: The shepherds hurried to Bethlehem to see the Holy Child. Tonight, we share the joy of those shepherds as, by faith, we too gather to worship our Savior. People: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! (Three purple, one pink, and center white candles are lit on the Advent wreath.) *CONFESSIONAL PRAYER Pastor: On this holy night, let us confess our sins to God and ask his forgiveness. People: Almighty God, although we gather to glorify your holy name, we too often seek glory for ourselves. We follow our own selfish desires instead of loving and serving others as we should. We try to exalt ourselves instead of giving glory to our Lord and Savior. Have mercy on us and forgive us for Jesus’ sake. Lead us by your Spirit to glorify your name in our thoughts, words and actions. Pastor: In mercy and love, God sent his Son to be our Savior. The Holy Child of Bethlehem was born to die as the atoning sacrifice for the sins of the world. By grace through faith in Jesus, we rejoice in God’s favor and in his peace. I announce to you that your sins are forgiven in the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. People: Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased! RESPONSE “Light the Advent Candle” #2090 vs 5 HYMN “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly” #229 CHILDREN'S CHAT MUSIC MINISTRY/OFFERTORY - Only a Baby Came-Natalie Sleeth (Virtual Choir) DOXOLOGY/PRAYER OF GRATITUDE SCRIPTURE READING 1: Luke 2:1-7 HYMN “O Little Town of Bethlehem” #230 vs. 1 SCRIPTURE READING 2: Luke 2:8-14 HYMN “Angels We Have Heard on High” #238 vs. 1-2 SCRIPTURE READING 3: Luke 2:15-20 HYMN “Away in a Manger” #217 vs. 1 SERIES: The Light of Grace SERMON: “Glory: Shepherds” HYMN - “Amazing Grace” #378 vs. 1 COMMUNION CLOSING HYMN "Silent Night, Holy Night" #239 ACTIONS STEPS & BENEDICTION Pastor: And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. People: And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” Pastor: And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, People: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” Pastor: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. People: Amen. POSTLUDE - All My Heart this Night Rejoices- Carson Cooman Thank you for sharing in this worship service. Please continue to stay in touch through our website (stoneumc.org) and/or by following us on Facebook (Stone UMC). If you have joys or concerns that you would like lifted up in prayer, please fill out the Prayer Card in the pew, on the website, share them by contacting us at 814-724-6736 or churchoffice@stoneumc.org The poinsettias on the altar today are given to the glory of God in honor of Jessica & Cruz Dragosavac, Pat Lafferty, the Shields family, Garald & Phyllis Stockton and in loving memory of Michael Allan Dallas, Genevieve Dallas, Finney family members, Jonathan A. Pears, Byron Ray, Ron & Marlene Burchfield, Donald Shea, Alice & Clarence Cornell, Deanna Stright, Helen & Stanley Shea and Lois Snow.

At the announcement of His incarnation, the Lord Christ received the name Jesus and three of the many titles attributed to Him- the Son of the Most High, the Holy Child, and the Son of God. Each name and title helps us understand the person and work of this Savior, King, and God incarnate.

At the announcement of His incarnation, the Lord Christ received the name Jesus and three of the many titles attributed to Him- the Son of the Most High, the Holy Child, and the Son of God. Each name and title helps us understand the person and work of this Savior, King, and God incarnate.

This sermon is for the 4th Sunday in Advent, which is also Christmas Eve Day, December 24, 2023, based on the Gospel reading from Luke 1:26-38. In this passage the gospel writer sets the stage—and the stakes—for the miraculous, prophetic, improbable birth of the Son of God, King of Kings, and Savior of the Nations. And it all begins with the courageous faith of a young, poor, unwed girl named Mary.We'll take a closer look at Mary, the angel Gabriel, the names of Jesus, and why these details were so important then and now. We'll conclude with some ideas about what Spirit might be saying to us now, including some practical ways to apply God's word this Christmas. So, now would be a great time to dust off your Bible, and open to the first chapter of the gospel of Luke and find verse 26. Let's pray, then dive in. This prayer is verse four of a Christmas Carol: O Little Town of Bethlehem.O, Holy Child of Bethlehem, descend to us, we pray: Cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today. We hear the Christmas angels the great glad tidings tell; Oh, come to us, abide with us, our Lord Immanuel! Amen.Luke 1:26-38 (NRSV)26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27 to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you.” 29 But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. 30 The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. 33 He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” 34 Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. 36 And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.Support the show

For the past two Sundays, we have been thinking about two people who were very important parts of the Christmas story: Mary, the mother of Jesus, and Joseph, the earthly father. Today our subject is "The Holy Child of Bethlehem" and this is the central person in the entire story. Our scriptural basis for today is Luke, chapter 2. Let's look at the background of some of the people mentioned at the first of this chapter and see how God worked to bring to pass, not only the miraculous birth, but also how God can work a miracle of "new birth" in our lives. Truly, "It is no secret what God can do."Thank you for joining us today from Ocean Lakes Family Campground.

Though we remember Christmas, could it be that we have we forgotten the Holy Child, Jesus?

When American author O. Henry wrote his beloved 1905 Christmas story “The Gift of the Magi,” he was struggling to rebound from personal troubles. Still, he penned an inspiring story that highlights a beautiful, Christ-like character trait—sacrifice. In the story, an impoverished wife sells her beautiful long hair on Christmas Eve to buy a gold pocket watch chain for her husband. As she learns later, however, her husband had sold his pocket watch to buy a set of combs for her beautiful hair. Their greatest gift to each other? Sacrifice. From each, the gesture showed great love. In that way, the story represents the loving gifts the magi (wise men) gave to the Christ child after His holy birth (see Matthew 2:1,11). More than those gifts, however, the Holy Child would one day give His life for the whole world. In our daily lives, believers in Jesus can highlight His great gift by offering to others the sacrifice of our time, treasures, and a temperament that all speak of love. As the apostle Paul wrote, “I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). There’s no better gift than sacrificing for others through Christ’s love.

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

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 108-foot-tall sculpture of Christ the Fisher located in La Concordia in the Mexican state of Chiapas was completely burned down after being struck by lightning September 10. Hours after the incident, the Secretariat for Civil Protection and the local municipal police went to the scene to assess the damage. “Due to the impact of lightning and combustible material, fire spread in its structure; it collapsed and burned,” Civil Protection reported on Facebook. After lamenting the accident, the parish expressed its desire that other “works and projects” be carried out for “the common good” and the “comprehensive growth” of the town. The authorities indicated that the decision to replace the statue had not yet been made. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255375/lightning-strike-destroys-monumental-statue-of-christ-in-mexico Scandinavia's top Church leader says he hopes the role of women in the Church's mission is a focal point at the upcoming synodal assembly on synodality — and, therefore, that the conversation isn't bogged down on the settled question of whether the Church can ordain women. The Church's inability to sacramentally ordain women was confirmed in 1994 by Pope John Paul II. Pope Francis has also repeatedly affirmed this truth. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255369/ordination-of-women-should-not-be-focal-point-of-synod-says-scandinavian-cardinal A foundation that is raising money for the descendants of people who were enslaved by Jesuits announced $27 million in new contributions, more than doubling the total fund, which has now reached $42 million. The new money came from two large donations: a $10 million contribution from Georgetown University and an estimated $17 million from the Jesuits. The Jesuit funding includes the estimated value of a former plantation that is owned by Jesuits and another $10 million. With the additional funding, the Descendants Truth & Reconciliation Foundation's fund has now reached 42% of its five-year goal of $100 million. The organization's final goal is to ultimately reach $1 billion. Jesuits participated in the slave trade in North America since colonial times to support missionary efforts and establish educational institutions, including Georgetown. In 1838, the university sold more than 272 enslaved people from their plantations to southern Louisiana to support its financial needs. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255364/jesuits-georgetown-donate-27-dollars-million-to-fund-for-slave-descendants A panel of judges ruled that a California school district must allow a Christian athletic club to return to public schools after the district banned the group over its adherence to Christian teachings on sexuality. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/255372/court-rules-california-district-cant-bar-christian-athletic-club-from-schools Today, the Church celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, which commemorates the seven great sorrows which Mary lived in relation to Her Son. 1. At the prophecy of Simeon: "You yourself shall be pierced with a sword - so that the thoughts of many hearts may be laid bare." 2. At the flight into Egypt. 3. Losing the Holy Child at Jerusalem. 4. Meeting Jesus on his way to Calvary. 5. Standing at the foot of the Cross. 6. Jesus being taken from the Cross. 7. At the burial of Christ. https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/our-lady-of-sorrows-595 https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252292/our-lady-of-sorrows-what-are-mary-s-seven-sorrows

The toxicity that has infiltrated the church of pretending to be perfect and holy because parents are or because they have an important position. Let us not forget we have ALL fallen short of the grace of God. God doesn't look at who our parents are to determine what kind of person we are. He sees us as individuals, who needs help and grace. We see David who didn't let himself be seen as a “fill in” to King Saul's armor. He chose to let his victory be accomplished with what God had given him. His own identity. 

In this Sermon we look at what & who Jesus sais is the greatest in the Kingdom after the disciples ask which he says that the greatest among you is the one who Serves . Amen . This is a statement that echoes through so much of the scripture we touch on Revelation 12 which goes into Satan seeking to devour the Holy child as soon as he is born . The 1st couple of verses speak about the dragon coming after the woman and the child and them being taken to a place reserved by god in the wilderness for 3 years . We look at luke 1 and Matthew 2 of Joseph and Mary fleeing to Egypt after the Angel gabriel sent by God tells them to flee because of Herod's evil plan. We see the continued theme of Satan coming after Jesus and at the end of Revelation 12 we see that Satan comes after the seed of the womans holy child which is us . We read in Galatians 5 that we are to Serve one another in love these are the traits of the kingdom and the children of God. This is the example we must follow in the example of Jesus the Holy child . https://www.smucd.org/blog https://www.smucd.org/donate #SMUCD #JESUS #Baptism #BLIND #SIGHT #Rest #Slavery #Earings #Israel #TheBible #BlackHistory #peace #works #grace #deuteronomy28 #christ #prophecy #Hebrews #Sermons #Oneness #thePast #TheFuture #Revelation #Newtestament #Oldtestament #conversation #TheMultitude #radio #Holy #refined #thefire #HolySpirit #mercy #wisdom #Proverbs #Acts #Peter #Paul #Apostles #fellowship #seek #knocking #Skills #talents #crafts #Arts #building #Raisingstones #Raising #Refining #ANTICHRIST #CRYPTOCURRENCY #BEASTSYSTEM #144,000 #Onehundredfourtyfourthousand #AThousandyearsofPeace #JesusReignsSupreme #NewJerusalem --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/smucd-podcast/message

I. The Heartbreaking Discovery-II. The Humbling Revelation-III. The Holy Child

Blessings to all this Christmas Day 2022. In spite of global turmoil, political oppression and disenchantment with established religious traditions, the Holy Child came. Our current era is similar to that first Christmas, and yet we have an opportunity once again to manifest goodness, truth and beauty. May Peace Prevail on Earth! #christmas #Divinefeminine #sacredfeminine #blackmadonna --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/stephanie-georgieff/support

The Song Of MaryReader: Jon WatsonDate: 24th December 2022Passage: Luke 1:46-------------------You have to marvel at the way in which Mary, the mother of Jesus, responded to the message God brought to her telling her that she would be the mother of the long-awaited Messiah. Yet she would have to go through misunderstanding, and the terrible trauma of seeing her first-born son savagely beaten and then crucified — a terrible death. But that was all in the future. Some months before the birth of Jesus she visited her relative Elizabeth, and she sang these words at the top of the page, recorded in Luke 1:46, in humble delight at God's goodness for his people in sending a Saviour for her and for them.As we look forward to Christmas Day we too should remember the event of Jesus' birth with humble thankfulness to God and remember among all the joy and thankfulness there is the tinge of sadness that Jesus Christ, the Holy Child from heaven, had to suffer so much in his time on earth — all because of our sin and the world's brokenness. Charles Wesley wrote: "Come O Long expected Jesus, born to set your people free! From our fears and sins release us, Christ in whom our rest shall be."May we all be able to rejoice because the long expected Jesus has come so that as we celebrate Christmas together we can praise and thank God for such an amazing message that set Mary singing and all the world-wide church joining in her song.May this last sleep before Christmas be a peaceful one!

Special message from the Gospel of Luke Luke 1:26-35 Watch Our Sermons Online! Freedom Baptist - Facebook Freedom Baptist - YouTube Freedom Baptist - LinkedIn

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

The angel answered and said to her, “The Holy ...

Friends of the Rosary: The feast of Our Lady of Sorrows that we observe today invites us to reflect on Mary's deep suffering and the seven great sorrows which She lived in relation to Her Son. These are Mary's seven sorrows: 1. In the prophecy of Simeon (fourth Joyful Mystery): "You yourself shall be pierced with a sword - so that the thoughts of many hearts may be laid bare." (Luke 2:35). 2. On the flight into Egypt; "Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt." (Mt 2:13). 3. Having lost the Holy Child at Jerusalem (fifth Joyful Mystery); "You see that your father and I have been searching for you in sorrow." (Luke 2:48). 4. Meeting Jesus on his way to Calvary (fourth Sorrowful Mystery); 5. Standing at the foot of the Cross (fifth Sorrowful Mystery); "Near the cross of Jesus there stood His mother." (John 19:25). 6. Jesus being taken from the Cross; 7. At the burial of Christ. Ave Maria! Jesus, I Trust In You! + Mikel A. | RosaryNetwork.com, New York • September 15, 2021, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Observe how Jesus Christ here brings out the Fatherhood of God. The psalm from which He quoted did not say, -Father.- David did not get as far as that in words, though in spirit he often did- but Jesus had the right to alter the psalmist's words. He can improve on Scripture, though you and I cannot. He did not say, -Oh God, into your hand I commit my spirit-- but He said, -Father.- Oh, that sweet word- That was the gem of thought when Jesus said, -Knew you not that I must be at my Father's-that I must be in my Father's house-- Oh, yes- the Holy Child knew that He was specially, and in a peculiar sense, the Son of the Highest- and therefore He said, -My Father-- and, in dying, His expiring heart was buoyed up and comforted with the thought that God was His Father.

Northwest Bible Church - Dec. 19, 2021 - Christmas - Alan Conner Matthew 1:18-25 The Birth Names of Christ Intro THE VIRGIN CONCEPTION. Mary was a virgin.Matthew 1:18, 23 May was with child by the Holy Spirit.Luke 1:35; Matthew 1:18, 20 The virgin conception and birth of Jesus Christ is essential Christian doctrine. THE NAMES AND TITLES OF THIS CHILD. JESUS (Matthew 1:21; Luke 1:31). IMMANUEL (Matthew 1:23). SON OF THE MOST HIGH; KING; HOLY CHILD; SON OF GOD (Luke 1:32, 35). SUNRISE FROM ON HIGH (Luke 1:78-79). SAVIOR, WHO IS CHRIST THE LORD (Luke 2:11). THE COUNCIL OF CHALCEDON (451)     So, following the holy fathers, we all with one voice teach the confession of one and the same Son, our Lord Jesus Christ: the same perfect in divinity and perfect in humanity, the same truly God and truly man, of a rational soul and a body; of one essence with the Father as regards his divinity, and the same of one essence with us as regards his humanity; like us in all respects except for sin;     He is one and the same Christ, Son, Lord, Only-begotten, acknowledged in two natures which undergo no confusion, no change, no division, no separation. At no point was the difference between the natures taken away through the union, but rather the property of both natures is preserved and comes together into a single person and a single subsistent being (hypostasis). He is not parted or divided into two persons, but is one and the same only-begotten Son, God, Word, Lord Jesus Christ, just as the prophets taught from the beginning about Him, and as the Lord Jesus Christ Himself instructed us, and as the creed of the fathers handed it down to us. ONLY THE GOD-MAN COULD BE OUR SAVIOR. Conclusion

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

Episode 7 kicks off with a story from Fraser that no one expected, as we visit the Spanish Inquisition and learn the sad story of The Holy Child of La Guardia. Jen follows that up with a primer on Spontaneous Human Combustion. Is it real? You listen and be the judge. For our Creepy Cocktail, we're going to just pretend we are in Spain on a hot summer day and enjoy some Sangria. Pour yourself a glass and enjoy some Creepy History with us!Follow us on social media: Twitter @CreepyHist and Instagram @CreepyHistPod.Sangria Recipe1 bottle red wine (Pinot Noir is a good choice)1 Orange1 Lemon1 cup seasonal fresh fruit (we used Granny Smith apples)1/2 cup Brandy2 T Simply SyrupCut the orange in half. Juice half the orange into a pitcher. Slice the other half into thin slices and add to pitcher.Cut apple and lemon into thin slices and add to pitcher.Add syrup and brandy, followed by wine.Mix well, and refrigerate for 1-4 hours before serving over ice.Enjoy!Credits:Fraser Coffeen (Twitter @FCoffeen)Jennifer Coffeen (Twitter @JenCoffeen)Music by Fraser and Charlie Coffeen (Instagram @CharliesKeys)

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)

"Saint Romanus was a deacon and exorcist in the Church of Caesarea in Palestine. He happened to be at Antioch in 303 when the Emperor Diocletian's edicts for the general persecution of Christians were published. He could not bear to see so many Christian men, women and children denying their faith in the true God for fear of suffering. As they went to sacrifice to the idols, he ran up, consumed with zeal for righteousness, crying shame on them with a loud voice. He was immediately arrested and brought before the city Prefect. He faced interrogation boldly and to prove the stupidity of the pagan cult, he asked for a child to be brought in, taken at random from the crowd in the public square. Romanus enquired of the lad whether it was more sensible to worship the one and only God and Creator of the world, or the many gods of the pagans. Showing himself wiser than the pagans, the child unhesitatingly decided for the God of the Christians. The Prefect flew into a rage at being made to look ridiculous and ordered the young confessor to be put to the torture straight away in the presence of his mother. The child endured the torments without flinching but told his mother he was thirsty and wanted a drink. '0 my dear son', the admirable woman answered, 'do not drink corruptible and temporal water, but keep up your courage so as to drink living and eternal water in the Kingdom of God!' The child was beheaded, and Saint Romanus was condemned to be burnt to death. He welcomed the sentence joyfully, and with a shining face was led unresistingly to the stake. Since the Emperor was in the city, the executioners awaited his decision before lighting the fire and the valiant Martyr exclaimed at the delay, 'Where is the fire that is prepared for me?' But the execution was stayed so that he could be brought before the Emperor in person. Aware that Christians rejoice over the death of a Martyr as the entrance to everlasting life, the tyrant wanted to increase the suffering of Christ's athlete by delaying the moment of deliverance. He ordered the executioners to tear out his tongue, which Romanus freely offered, and he miraculously went on praising God and encouraging the faithful after it was cut away. After this torment, he was imprisoned for a long time in chains until the Emperor's birthday. This was celebrated all over the Empire and a general release of prisoners was customary. But Romanus was not freed; with his feet crushed in the stocks, he was secretly strangled in his dungeon and thus received the adornment of martyrdom, as he had desired."(Synaxarion)