Podcasts about Nativity

Welcome to Day 2784 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom. Day 2784– The Nativity Revisited – Luke 2:1-20 Putnam Church Message – 12/21/2025 Luke's Account of the Good News - “The Nativity Revisited – Love Came Down”   Last week, we had our service online due to the weather, and we continued our year-long study of Luke's Narrative of the Good News in a message titled: “The Prophet of the Most High.” Joy to the World This week is the Fourth Sunday of Advent, which is Love, as we continue to build anticipation of the coming Messiah. Today's passage is the story of: “The Nativity Revisited – Love Came Down”- Our Core verses for this week will be Luke 2:1-20, found on page 1590 of your Pew Bibles.  The Birth of Jesus 2 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while[a] Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to their own town to register. 4 So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. 5 He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. 6 While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, 7 and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them. 8 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, 14 “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” 15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and...

Send us a textA Roman census looked like bureaucracy; Luke shows it as providence. We open Luke 2:1–21 and watch how empire, prophecy, and humble people intersect in a small town called Bethlehem—house of bread and home to lambs bound for Jerusalem. The story is not staged in palaces but in a crowded town with a manger for a crib, where God's timing and promises take on flesh.We walk through the details that anchor faith in history: Caesar's decree, Quirinius, David's city, Micah's promise. Then the scene shifts to shepherds—ordinary, overlooked, often unclean—who receive the first birth announcement from heaven. Fear turns to movement, movement to witness, witness to worship. Their pattern becomes a template for us: when grace interrupts our night, we go, we see, we tell, we praise. Along the way we explore rich themes: Bethlehem as the house of bread for the bread of life, a region raising sacrificial lambs as the Lamb of God arrives, and the paradox of glory revealed through humility.Mary's quiet strength steadies the narrative. She treasures and ponders, carrying promises she doesn't fully understand, while Joseph and Mary obey the Law as Jesus is circumcised and named. The one who will fulfill the Law begins by honoring it. The one who commands angels receives a name chosen by God. Luke's careful detail resists sentimentality and invites trust: God keeps his word, uses unexpected messengers, and writes salvation into real places and real lives.If you're hungry for a grounded, hope-filled take on the Nativity that speaks to ordinary faith and everyday courage, this conversation is for you. Listen, reflect, and consider your next step of “haste”—seek Christ, share what you've seen, and give glory to God. If the episode encouraged you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs good news today.New episodes every Mondaywww.lifehousemot.cominfo@lifehousede.com Join us Sundays at 9 & 11 AM Intro music by Joey Blair

This week we're kicking off 2026 with the fantastic Lisa Dunning! Lisa, a regular at Flintshire Funnybone Improv and CHIMPS and a member of one of the newest improv troupes on the block, Grass Dens, joins Iain to share her journey from starring in a televised version of The Nativity at just six years old to becoming deeply entrenched in the world of improv in recent years. This bumper episode is packed with conversation about accents, performing, using improv in the real world, sharing a hobby with your partner, and so much more. Also, stick around until the end for a special New Year musical treat from Iain! So what are you waiting for? Sit back, relax, and discover Lisa's true story about making stuff up.

Father Mattingly preaches on the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord.

We read Luke 2:1-20, seeing the birth of Jesus as the fulfillment of God's work among the Jewish people, the story of David, and the human story as a whole. God the creator cares about our world, about time and space, and comes to dwell with us in this fragile context. We are especially helped by fathers who marvel concerning Luke's attention to detail, and God's great compassion.

In episode 519 of the podcast I'm joined by astrologer Reverend Lindsay Turner to discuss the story of the Magi, the birth of Jesus, and the astrology surrounding the Nativity story. We explore the celebration of Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day, and analyze the Gospel of Matthew's account of the astrologers from the East who followed a star to Bethlehem. We discuss the distinction between approaching the Nativity as a historical event versus a literary narrative, and how the author of Matthew partially used the story of the Magi to legitimize Jesus as a king in the 1st century. We also look at technical astrological terms found in the Greek text, such as anatole or "at its rising," and how this relates to Hellenistic astrology. We also talk about the relationship between early Christianity and astrology, including the non-canonical Acts of Paul and Thecla, the liturgical seasons aligning with the Zodiac, and how modern Christians can reconcile their faith with astrological practice. Lindsay's Website https://badpastor.me Timestamps 00:00:00 Intro00:00:34 Epiphany and Three Kings Day traditions00:01:45 The Nativity story and the Star of Bethlehem00:03:50 Historical vs. literary approaches to the Gospels00:05:41 The Gospel of Matthew and Hebrew prophecy00:08:05 Reading the Magi passage (Matthew 2:1-12)00:10:52 Who were the Magi? Astrologers vs. Persian priests00:12:00 The context of natal astrology in the 1st Century00:13:30 The political subversion of the Nativity story00:16:27 "At its rising" (Anatole) as a technical astrological term00:18:23 Crossover between New Testament Greek and astrological texts00:20:14 Theories on the Star: Comets, conjunctions, and novae00:26:27 The solar eclipse at the crucifixion00:31:00 Astrology used to legitimize Jesus in Matthew00:33:30 Did the Magi renounce astrology?00:36:51 The Manger nebula in the constellation Cancer00:39:19 The Thema Mundi and the birth chart of the cosmos00:41:05 The debate over the date of Jesus' birth00:48:25 The Acts of Paul and Thecla and lost Christian texts00:54:38 Mary Magdalene and the seven daimons01:02:15 Fate, free will, and Stoicism in the ancient world01:05:45 Early Christianity as social rebellion01:09:30 Identity in Christ vs. astrological identity01:15:33 Liturgical seasons and the Zodiac01:17:28 Saturnalia, Sol Invictus, and the origins of Christmas01:21:50 Stigma against astrology in the modern church01:29:50 The shared origins of Christianity and Hellenistic astrology01:32:00 Astrology as a bridge between science and religion01:35:10 Lindsay's upcoming book and contact info01:36:35 Sponsors and credits Watch the Video Version of This Episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3J68CV7YYm0 - Listen to the Audio Version of This Episode Listen to the audio version of this episode or download it as an MP3:

When we reflect on the Nativity, our minds go immediately to St. Joseph. He lived a life of uncertainty, but he was called by God to accomplish the greatest task any man in history was called upon. He may have believed he fell short of that calling, but we know he did not. He embraced this call from Our Lord and answered it with unwavering faith. He may never have believed himself sufficient to what was asked, but through prayer and faith, he accomplished the greatest calling any man could be asked to answer.

The Massacre of the Innocents is a story recounted in the Nativity narrative of the Gospel of Matthew (2:16–18) in which Herod the Great, king of Judea, orders the execution of all male infants who are two years old and under in the vicinity of Bethlehem. Some Christians venerate the Holy Innocents as the first Christian martyrs, but most modern scholarship finds no evidence that it happened outside the passages in Matthew and thus consider it a Myth. Ee88. Paulogia podcast available at https://amzn.to/3Tg2Eno Herod the Great books available at https://amzn.to/3T5iKyw ENJOY Ad-Free content, Bonus episodes, and Extra materials when joining our growing community on https://patreon.com/markvinet SUPPORT this channel by purchasing any product on Amazon using this FREE entry LINK https://amzn.to/3POlrUD (Amazon gives us credit at NO extra charge to you). Mark Vinet's TIMELINE video channel: https://youtube.com/c/TIMELINE_MarkVinet Mark's History of North America podcast: www.parthenonpodcast.com/history-of-north-america Website: https://markvinet.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.vinet.9 Twitter: https://twitter.com/HistoricalJesu Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denarynovels Mark's books: https://amzn.to/3k8qrGM Audio credits: Why Christianity Framed Herod as a Baby Killer? (Paulogia podcast with Dr. Jodi Magness). All audio excerpts reproduced under the Fair Use (Fair Dealings) Legal Doctrine for purposes such as criticism, comment, teaching, education, scholarship, research and news reporting. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

1/19/26 - The Archdiocese of Boston finds itself once again at the center of national controversy following a Dedham parish's decision to remove the figures of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph from its Nativity scene and replace them with a political sign reading “ICE WAS HERE,” implying the Holy Family would have been detained by federal immigration authorities. In this interview, C. J. Doyle, Executive Director of the Catholic Action League of Massachusetts, joins us to walk through the unfolding scandal at Saint Susanna Parish, where Pastor Fr. Stephen Josoma refused a direct order from Archbishop Richard Henning to remove what the archdiocese itself called “divisive political messaging,” demanded dialogue instead of obedience, and was ultimately permitted to leave the display in place throughout the Christmas season. The situation escalated when a small group of faithful Catholics—some elderly—gathered quietly to pray the Rosary in reparation near the church, only to have police called on them by parish staff, while the politicized Nativity display remained untouched. Doyle examines what these incidents reveal about disobedience, sacrilege, unequal enforcement of Church discipline, media pressure from secular outlets, and the long-standing influence of Boston's political and cultural establishment on ecclesiastical decision-making. The conversation also widens to cover other significant developments affecting the Catholic Church in the Boston area, as Doyle explains the recent efforts of the Catholic Action League to defend orthodoxy, protect the faithful, and hold Church leadership accountable amid ongoing cultural and institutional challenges.

Jason Jones reports that Israel has approved an illegal settlement project that threatens Shepherd's Field in Beit Sahour, revered as the site of Christ's Nativity announcement. At least 19 Christian families have already been displaced, and the new development could sever Bethlehem's Christian community from Jerusalem. Jones warns this may mark the final erasure of Christianity in the West Bank, exposing decades of church destruction and settler violence. He calls on Western Catholics to abandon silence, insisting they have the power, and duty, to stop this before it's too late.HELP SUPPORT WORK LIKE THIS: https://give.lifesitenews.com/?utm_source=SOCIAL U.S. residents! Create a will with LifeSiteNews: https://www.mylegacywill.com/lifesitenews ****PROTECT Your Wealth with gold, silver, and precious metals: https://sjp.stjosephpartners.com/lifesitenews +++SHOP ALL YOUR FUN AND FAVORITE LIFESITE MERCH! https://shop.lifesitenews.com/ ****Download the all-new LSNTV App now, available on iPhone and Android!LSNTV Apple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lsntv/id6469105564 LSNTV Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lifesitenews.app +++Connect with John-Henry Westen and all of LifeSiteNews on social media:LifeSite: https://linktr.ee/lifesitenewsJohn-Henry Westen: https://linktr.ee/jhwesten Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is in China for the first visit by a Canadian leader in almost a decade. Already, he's signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Beijing that could result in more Canadian oil, natural gas, and clear energy exported to China. But as Dan Karpenchuk reports, before he left, PM Carney made a stop over in British Columbia to talk with Coastal First Nations about his plans for energy exports. The meeting was held in Prince Rupert, and on the agenda – Ottawa's major projects. The Coastal First Nations, made up of nine First Nations, try to ensure that they have a say in how resources and waters are managed.  They also work to protect the Great Bear Rainforest and the British Columbia (BC) coastline. And they have strongly opposed the idea  of a new pipeline or the end of a ban on the moratorium on oil tankers. Both are major components of Ottawa's plans to diversity Canada's trade in energy, and move away from dependency on U.S. trade, especially now in the era of uncertainty caused by President Donald Trump. But Coastal First Nations remain opposed to any new pipeline to the BC coast. Carney played down expectations, saying that the meeting was more about dialogue to explore ways they could work together, but the coastal chiefs are not budging on their opposition, according to the group's president, Maily Slett. “We reiterated that there is no technology that can clean up an oil spill at sea. And that it would take just one spill to destroy our way of life. We shared our reliance on a healthy and intact ocean and our determination to protect the ocean and the ecosystem that we rely upon.” Without their support, Carney's government appears to be in a lose-lose situation. Coastal chiefs say they will use every tool available to stop construction if Ottawa pushes ahead with a North Coast pipeline. The St. Innocent Russian Orthodox Cathedral choir performs hymns during a Christmas celebration on January 7 at the Yagheli Shesh Qenq’a Anchorage Native Primary Care Center. (Photo: Matt Faubion / Alaska Public Media) The holidays may be over, but Alaskans across the state recently celebrated Russian Orthodox Christmas and New Year. Celebrations often include hymns, feasts, and a tradition called Starring, or Slaviq. One celebration in Anchorage brought together people who could not celebrate the holiday with their families or in church. The Alaska Desk’s Alena Naiden from our flagship station KNBA was there and has the story. Singers in kuspuks and head scarfs chant Christmas hymns in English, Yup’ik, Russian, and Church Slavonic. Next to them, three young men spin sparkling pinwheel-shaped stars on wooden poles, each with an Orthodox icon of a Nativity scene in the center. The group is gathered for a Russian Christmas celebration hosted by the Alaska Native Medical Center at their primary care clinic. The singers are from St. Innocent Russian Orthodox Cathedral choir in Anchorage, though most of them are originally from the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Alaska Orthodox Archbishop Alexei was a part of the opening of Slaviq, a custom he says originated in the Carpathian Mountains in Eastern Europe. “This wonderful, beautiful tradition that has been in Alaska for over 100 years.” Okalena Patricia Lekanoff-Gregory is from Unalaska and grew up singing hymns in Aleut and Russian. Her family always gathered around Slaviq to decorate stars for the celebration. Now she makes them herself. Gregory says she wants to pass down the tradition to the next generation. “It’s our history. It’s been going, coming over from Ukraine, from Russia, and and still being sung today. To me, it’s powerful.” The best part of the night for Gregory is having a big feast, sometimes until two in the morning. And she loves it when the songs make people move. She remembers one song from her childhood, similar to @Joy to the World@, that shifted between fast and slow tempo. “You could see the people kind of dance or move to it. You're not supposed to dance in church, right? But this song, they always did. All the elders, you can see them tapping their feet, and their head bop. I miss that.” Gregory says she was happy to attend Slaviq at the primary care center, to bring comfort and healing to patients. After the performance, the group crossed the street from the primary care center and continued the procession at the patient housing. Get National Native News delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up for our daily newsletter today. Download our NV1 Android or iOs App for breaking news alerts. Check out the latest episode of Native America Calling

Welcome to the Christmas series! Joseph is given another dream - a warning. He must get Mary and Jesus to safety. He realizes that this is what he was called to all along - protect God’s Son, even if it costs him his life. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app. To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Get all set for the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time with Father Jonathan Meyer.SummaryIn this episode of the 'All Set for Sunday' podcast, hosts Scott Williams and Father Meyer engage in a lively discussion about the significance of the readings for the second Sunday in Ordinary Time. They explore the themes of God's mission as presented in Isaiah, the grace and identity in Paul's letter to the Corinthians, and the powerful declaration of John the Baptist as he identifies Jesus as the 'Lamb of God.' The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing the larger mission of God, even in ordinary times, and the role of the Eucharist in connecting the Nativity story to the sacrifice of Christ. Father Meyer shares insights from his Christmas homily, emphasizing the connection between the shepherds, the lambs, and the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, which resonates deeply with the listeners.TakeawaysGod's mission is global, not just local.Before correction comes identity, before instruction comes grace.John the Baptist boldly declares Jesus as the Lamb of God.The Nativity story foreshadows the sacrifice of Christ.Large Catholic events foster community and encourage faith.Chapters02:41 Exploring the Readings for Ordinary Time05:20 John the Baptist's Declaration08:25 The Significance of the Shepherds12:05 Connecting the Nativity to the Eucharist16:25 The Role of Large Catholic Events21:01 Reflections on Young Men's Vocations26:56 Innovating Parish Missions for the Future32:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Welcome to the Christmas series! Herod, boiling in a jealous rage, commits the same act as Pharaoh did long ago. In a chaotic and fiery frenzy, children are taken from their homes and killed, all because of the pride of one man. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app. To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Christmas series! In a humble house, nestled near the valley where King David himself once herded sheep, the King of Kings is adorned with gifts. Each gift is a symbol of his identity and prophecy of his fate. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app. To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finding the Child by Finding the Mother Today's Homily reflects on the Gospel of Christ's birth and naming, . . . . . . emphasizing that the Nativity is not a past event but a living, ever-new mystery that renews time itself. The Church proclaims that the birth of Jesus . . . God entering human history. . . stands at the true beginning of every year, making time “full” through Christ. January 1st, the Octave Day of Christmas and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, and that to know the Son is to know the Mother. The Homily further highlights the blessing from the Book of Numbers . . . “May the Lord let his face shine upon you” . . . fulfilled in Christ, whose face first shines upon Mary and then upon all humanity. Shepherds and Magi alike find Jesus by finding His Mother, illustrating their inseparable bond. Jesus comes not for us to take Him home, but to bring us home into God's family through adoption. Mary, entrusted with the name of Jesus, reveals it to the world, making her the Mother of God, the Church, and all believers. The faithful are invited to begin the year seeking God's blessing, peace, and grace, confident that Christ . . . Son of God and Son of Mary . . . continues to shine His face upon them in the Eucharist. Listen more to Finding the Child by Finding the Mother ------------------------------------------------------ Quote from the Homily To know the Mother, to find the Mother, is to know and find the Son. This too is the great mystery that the scriptures of these days unfold before us. First it is the shepherds who come, and they find the child by finding His mother. This coming Sunday, we will celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and the three magi come, and they will find the child by finding the mother. Know how wonderful this is, this inseparability between the two of them. To know the Son is to know the Mother. To know the Mother is to know the Son. This should not surprise us because the Lord has come. The Lord has come. Born of woman, born of Mary, born of a mother, not simply for us to receive Him. He has come to receive us. Jesus does not come into the world for us to take him home with us. Jesus comes into the world to bring us home with him. ------------------------------------------------------ Art Work Adoration: Italian Painter: Cappella Sassetti: 1485 ------------------------------------------------------ Gospel Reading: Luke 2: 16-21 First Reading: Numbers 6: 22-27 Second Reading: Galatians 4: 4-7

Welcome to the Christmas series! The magi arrive at the palace of King Herod, looking for the King of the Jews. Herod welcomes them with false-humility, smiling through his gritted teeth. Something isn’t right. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app. To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Christmas series! Magi, masters of alchemy and astronomy, notice an anomaly in the constellations. Their curiosity leads them to the scriptures, where they become convinced God has done something miraculous.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Christmas series! Mary and Joseph take the newborn Jesus to be dedicated to the temple. There, they meet a prophet who gives blessings and warnings of things to come.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fr. Kyrillos Ibrahim- Homily for the 1st Sunday of Tobi. The first Sunday after Nativity relates the Holy Family's flight to Egypt and the slaughter of the innocents. We find both the hope and light of the Incarnation, but also its opposition. This reveals both the fragility of the human condition and its resilience by the grace and power of God in our lives. Click the icon below to listen.

Welcome to the Christmas series! The shepherds arrive to see the newborn king swaddled in a manger. The sight, as humble as it is, fills them with awe. They share what they've seen, and rumors of the Messiah's arrival begin to spread throughout the land.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Christmas series! It is time for God to announce the arrival of his only begotten Son. Who shall He choose to proclaim his arrival to first? Kings? Priests? No… He sends a choir of angels to lowly shepherds.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we look at Luke 1:57-80, the story of John's birth, circumcision, and the surrounding joy. We understand this deep passage in the light of Isaiah 54:1, Isaiah 9:2 and Psalm LXX 17/MT18:1-3.

Welcome to the Christmas series! Underneath the starlit sky, surrounded by hay and animal filth, the Savior of the World and Hope of Heaven is born. The climax of creation and crescendo of the cosmos takes place in the most humble of contexts.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Christmas legend is separated from biblical truth. Were the visitors to Jesus really kings? Or were they Magi, astrologers, or something else entirely? Were there actually three of them or just three named gifts? Did they even come to the manger or years later? We'll explore what Scripture does and doesn't say about the Magi, the timing of their visit, the meaning of their gifts, and why Matthew highlights these mysterious Gentile seekers. Guest pastor and host tackle common misconceptions and discover how important this oft-misunderstood detail of Christ's nativity is.  The Rev. Roger Mullet, pastor of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Buffalo, WY, joins the Rev. Dr. Phil Booe to talk about the wise men who visited Jesus, and separate truth from myth.  To learn more about Prince of Peace, visit princeofpeacebuffalo.org. This Advent series begins by covering the last Old Testament prophet, Malachi, and then spends twelve episodes alternating between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment, tracing God's promises from Isaiah to the birth of Christ. The series explores Emmanuel's promise, the Davidic King, John the Baptist as forerunner, and reaches its climax with the Nativity. The final episodes examine the Suffering Servant, the shadow of the cross in Christ's infancy, Isaiah's Messianic mission statement, and John's declaration that "the Word became flesh."  Thy Strong Word, hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God's Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Submit comments or questions to: thystrongword@kfuo.org.

Welcome to the Christmas series! As the weary couple arrives in Bethlehem, there is no family or friends willing to help them. Everywhere they turn, they are turned away. They must find shelter quick… Mary is feeling the pangs of labor…  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nativity Feast Sermon @ St. Peter, Seal of the Martyrs Coptic Orthodox Church - West Palm Beach, FL ~ January 4, 2026 | Koiahk 29, 1742

Patrick welcomes listeners with prayer tips, answers questions about being lukewarm in faith, and unpacks the stories behind Church figures like Origen—touching on theology’s twists and controversies. Maritza - What does it mean to be 'lukewarm'? (01:25) Andy - Can you explain the controversy over Origen of Alexandria? Was he a heretic? (07:30) Ava - Do you have a Substack account online or is someone impersonating you? (22:16) Patricia - I am confused about the Nativity timeline. How and when did it all happen? (35:59) Susan - What are your thoughts on healthcare sharing? (44:40) Mark - Jesus did not know when the world would end, but my wife says He did know because he was Divine. Can you explain this? (48:50)

Christiani Pitts stops by to chat about her journey from playing a scene stealing cow in a church nativity play to leading Broadway blockbusters. She shares a hilarious story about how a miscommunication led to her performing stand up comedy at a nightclub at age eleven for an event associated with Dave Chappelle, and how her parents supported her dreams while navigating the tricky world of early industry scams. We dive deep into her experience starring in King Kong, discussing the technical insanity of acting opposite a massive puppet and how she manifested doing an action movie on stage. She also opens up about her current role in Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), exploring how the show handles mental health with subtle physicality, the "simplistically complex" set design, and the joy of balancing life as a Broadway star and a mom to a daughter who thinks she is also in the cast. Christiani Pitts is a history making performer who received critical acclaim playing Anne Darrow in the Broadway production of King Kong. After previously starring as Jane in A Bronx Tale, she played Beverly in the Netflix romantic comedy Resort to Love and starred as Pernessa in Power Book III: Raising Kanan, with additional credits including Elementary, Evil, The Good Fight, Blue Bloods, and Dead Ringers. She is currently starring as Robin in the new Broadway musical Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York). This episode is powered by WelcomeToTimesSquare.com, the billboard where you can e a star for a day. Connect with Christiani: Instagram: @christianipitts Facebook: Christiani Pitts Connect with The Theatre Podcast: Support the podcast on Patreon and watch video versions of the episodes: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/TheTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@theatre_podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook.com/OfficialTheatrePodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TheTheatrePodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Alan's personal Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@alanseales⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Email me at feedback@thetheatrepodcast.com. I want to know what you think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Christmas series! Joseph and Mary are almost to Bethlehem, but a storm has come to knock them off course. They endure a near-death experience to finally arrive where they are meant to be. Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Father Kevin Yono - 2nd Sunday after the Nativity 2026 by Chaldean Diocese

Fr. Patrick Setto - 2nd Sunday after The Nativity 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

Fr. Joseph Nannoshi - 2nd Sunday after The Nativity 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

Fr. Perrin Atisha - 2nd Sunday after The Nativity 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

Fr. Marcus Shammami - 2nd Sunday after The Nativity 2026 by Chaldean Diocese

Welcome to the Christmas series! Joseph reels in hurt, anger, and confusion. Joseph and Mary have been robbed of everything. They continue their journey, losing hope and patience with each other. What will bring them back to each other? Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sermon Title: Alternative New Years Resolutions Scripture: Luke 2:25-38 There are two interesting people who don't show up in our Nativity scenes and yet have pivotal encounters with the newborn Jesus. Simeon and Anna's stories point us to four hopes that we can carry into the new year. LakesideUMC.net

Fr. Pierre Konja - 2nd Sunday after The Nativity 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

Welcome to the Christmas series! Joseph and Mary embark on a treacherous journey to Bethlehem. Joseph struggles to keep up his strength, and Mary makes a mistake that may cost them the entire journey.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Christmas series! Caesar's decree for a nationwide census couldn't come at a worse time for Mary and Joseph. But perhaps this journey to Bethlehem is exactly what God planned all along.  Sign up for special devotionals at StoriesoftheMessiah.com. As we dive deeply into iconic Bible heroes' enthralling narratives, we find more than just stories of faith and miracles. We discover a recurrent theme, a spiritual undertone that connects each tale to the grandeur of the Gospel. They're not just standalone legends; they're threads in a divine tapestry, weaving a story that foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate hero, the promised Messiah who brings light to the darkest corners of history. For more Bible stories download the Pray.com app.  To learn more about Rabbi Schneider visit https://discoveringthejewishjesus.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gospel Luke 2:16-21 The shepherds went in haste to Bethlehem and found Mary and Joseph,   and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this,   they made known the message   that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed   by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things,   reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned,   glorifying and praising God   for all they had heard and seen,   just as it had been told to them.   When eight days were completed for his circumcision,   he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel   before he was conceived in the womb. Reflection When you think about these stories they have such an interesting twist to them. The unexpected. The one you wouldn't expect to come forward and say something like these shepherds said, had an experience with an angel that told them that they would encounter this. And you think about who shepherds were those days. They were sort of bikers, you know, just out there in the world. But what a beautiful image of the ones who come to recognize Jesus for who he is, and the people who worked in the way that Jesus symbolically longed to work. The shepherds were told by an angel that a new shepherd was coming, one beyond their imagining, one beyond their abilities, and they were delighted to share this message. And you wonder how the people around these stories, how they must have pondered them and wondered about them. We are asked to do the same thing. What a wonderful affirmation to the role of Jesus as our Shepherd in this apparition of an angel to these men. Closing Prayer Father, story after story around your coming into the world as a human being as our Savior. Keep us open to ways in which you continue to show us the mystery of who you are, and how are you working in our life. Give us time to reflect, to know you, and to expect signs and wonders. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/  @MichaelKnowles  "I Would Hit Myself In The Face With A Hammer" Michael & The Looksmaxxer | Clavicular https://youtu.be/e8qj9RNA938?si=y2-qLJOyazaGcwGj  @samharrisorg  Joe Rogan, Vaccine Misinformation, and the Collapse of Shared Reality https://youtu.be/e5QuO_wKPhk?si=PbMoWW6U76-5W7yg  @PremierUnbelievable  Was the Nativity invented to fulfil Prophecy? NT Wright answers all your Tom Holland questions https://youtu.be/LxKLpJCix3A?si=RCVpPDiEUYjsQD0y

Joe examines Thomas Aquinas’ Christmas reflection, and why Christmas and the Nativity weren’t actually necessary. Transcript: Joe: Merry Christmas and welcome back to Shameless Popery. I’m Joe Heschmeyer. And today I want to talk about a Christmas sort of isn’t necessary because the incarnation sort of wasn’t necessary. Now that might sound heretical, might sound insane for a Christian to say, but I think it’s actually an important thing for us to get right. And for support, I would point to the arguments made by people like St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aqui...

Fr. Patrick Setto - 1st Sunday after The Nativity 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

Fr. Joseph Nannoshi - 1st Sunday after The Nativity 2025 by Chaldean Diocese

This Christmas, we're delighted to bring back one of our most beloved conversations with Enneagram Three, pastor, and author AJ Sherrill. In this replay, AJ joins me to revisit the Nativity story—not as the sentimental tale we often breeze past each year, but as a rich, multilayered narrative pulsing with mystery, courage, vulnerability, and divine surprise. AJ shares his own journey into spiritual direction, what it's teaching him about listening, presence, and compassion, and how the Enneagram continues to shape his inner world. We explore why the season invites us to slow down, pay attention, and resist the frantic pace that so easily numbs our capacity for wonder. Together, we dig beneath the familiar Christmas imagery to uncover the often-misunderstood characters who surround the manger—the homeowner who offered radical hospitality, Zechariah rediscovering awe through silence, and even Herod, whose shadow side has more to teach us than we might expect. Their stories echo our own desires, fears, and growth edges in striking ways. We also have some fun speculating about the Enneagram archetypes present in the Christmas narrative—Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, and others—and how their unique postures toward God can inspire our own transformation. This episode is thoughtful, illuminating, and sprinkled with the kind of laughter and honesty that always seems to show up when AJ is with us. A perfect listen for Christmas Day. Settle in, take a breath, and join us as we rediscover the story beneath the story—and the God who meets us there.

Can a Poetic Pause Help us Embrace the In-Between Moments of the Season?   On this special Christmas Day episode of the Good Faith Podcast, host Curtis Chang and singer-songwriter Sandra McCracken each explore the nativity, the "space between" Christ's first coming and second coming, and how Christian faith holds grief and joy together in a world that often "does not mesh with Jesus." Featuring Madeleine L'Engle's poem "First Coming" and music from McCracken's Christmas EP I Heard the Bells (including "The Space Between"), this episode invites listeners to slow down, notice the small things, and find God's nearness in waiting and quiet wonder.   (00:03:02) Christian Response to a Troubled World (00:04:22) Madeleine L'Engle's "First Coming"  (00:08:35) Sandra McCracken's Christmas Reflections  (00:12:14) What Is Blessing the Space Between? (00:12:47) Songwriting and the Sacred Space Between  (00:15:10) From Christmas to New Year's: Blessing the In-Between Times (00:17:12) Nativity, Slowness, and the Nearness of God  (00:20:01) Curtis Chang's Closing Reflections   Enter the Christmas Day give away Good Faith mugs & a Sandra McCracken Christmas album   Sign up for the Good Faith Newsletter   Mentioned In This Episode: Madeleine L'Engle's The Ordering of Love Madeleine L'Engle's "First Coming" Luci Shaw's Accompanied by Angels: Poems of the Incarnation Sandra McCracken's Christmas EP I Heard the Bells Sandra McCracken's "The Space Between"   More From Sandra McCracken: Sandra McCracken's website Sandra's first Christmas album Sandra McCracken Christmas (2020)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Good Faith.

Homily from The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas) What if all I received was HIM this Christmas? We have waited for Jesus—and now that He is here, true gratitude is shown by living fully in the gift of His presence and love. Mass Readings from December 25, 2025:Isaiah 52:7-10 Psalm 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6Hebrews 1:1-6 John 1:1-18

In this special Christmas Eve bonus episode, Costi Hinn reminds us that the manger was never the end of the story—it was the beginning of a mission that leads to the cross and offers real hope for the weary.

Physicist and author Dr. Aaron Adair talks about just some of the many problems with the biblical nativity story.Dr. Adair's bookVIDEO of this conversationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/thethinkingatheist--3270347/support.