Podcasts about orthodox christians

Historian and journalist Molly Worthen explores the mysterious and potent force of charisma, and its power to shape American identity, culture, politics, and religion. She explains how storytelling, transcendence, and authority are used by America's most charismatic leaders. Drawing on her new book Spellbound: How Charisma Shaped American History from the Puritans to Donald Trump, Worthen shares how charismatic authority reveals deep human desires for meaning, agency, and transcendence. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, spiritual hunger, religious disaffiliation, and the evolving nature of belief and belonging in modern society. Worthen unpacks the often-overlooked distinction between charisma and charm or celebrity, examining the role of storytelling in cultivating authority and devotion. She also shares how researching this subject intersected with her own spiritual journey, culminating in her recent conversion to Christianity. Key Moments Molly Worthen discusses her latest book, *Spellbound.* Charisma: a relational, story-driven phenomenon, not mere charm or celebrity Our religious impulse persists despite declining traditional affiliation Worthen's personal spiritual journey: from intellectual agnosticism to Christian faith while writing the book Donald Trump's narrative charisma and religious-political appeal examined in depth Human longing for transcendence and meaning as the root of charismatic power Episode Highlights “Evangelism is just telling people what happened to you.” “The heart of charisma is the leader's ability to tell a story… that does a better job at explaining the chaos and the suffering.” “We want the comfort of knowing that some force larger than us is ultimately in charge—and yet we also seek agency.” “I came to realize I was writing a book that was fundamentally about spiritual hunger—and that I myself had that hunger too.” “Authenticity as a personal style has no necessary relationship with honesty.” “We kid ourselves if we think more sources solve the mystery of charisma—reality is an asymptote we never perfectly reach.” About Molly Worthen Molly Worthen is Associate Professor of History at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, specializing in North American religion, politics, global Christianity, and the history of ideas. She is a contributing writer for The New York Times and author of several books, including Apostles of Reason and The Man on Whom Nothing Was Lost. Her most recent book is Spellbound: How Charisma Shaped American History from the Puritans to Donald Trump. Show Notes Authority—who should we listen to? Internal battles within American evangelicalism The definition of charisma and its distinction from charm, celebrity, and power Charisma: “ the allure in a leader that gives him or her the power to move a crowd that is premised on a relationship. … you need two parties at least. It's not solely a quality of fluorescence that shines out from the individual without other people to interact with it.” The leader's ability to tell a story that explains the audience's experience of life Paradoxical quality: we want our decision to make a difference in our fate, but we also want some being or force larger than us to make it all okay. “ It's not just about looking at the one who is the special anointed one, but it's that somehow through that person, I too, or we too, see ourselves more clearly.” Special revelation and stories of experiencing God in particular ways “Capturing the ineffable” Role of charismatic leaders in American religious and political life Impact of Joseph Smith, Anne Hutchinson, JFK, and Adlai Stevenson Why institutional religion no longer captures spiritual impulse for many Americans Storytelling as the essence of charismatic authority Evolution of American individualism and the cult of authenticity How mass media, trauma, and cultural crises shape charismatic influence Coming to terms with the limits of your “source base”—”Reality is an asymptote.” “It's that sort of transcendent storytelling ability that is the heart of charisma.” Mormonism and the charisma of Joseph Smith Leaders like JFK and Adlai Stevenson offered different models of modern charisma “So much of my book is really about the fortunes of established institutions in American culture because charismatic figures always define themselves vis-a-vis institutions.” Routinizing charisma (cf. Max Weber) “The gap or the consistency between what our subjects are, are thinking and intending consciously and what they actually do.” Intuition vs analysis—steeping in cultural milieu and operating out of personal life experiences The Puritan heretic, Anne Hutchinson “Very few humans are out and out cynics.” Charismatic figures aren't always attractive or eloquent—they resonate through meaning-making “ The religious impulse is finding a place to land other than organized religion.” Protestant roots of American consciousness tied to authority and self-discovery Humanist psychology and positive thinking “The age of the gurus” Charisma and Contemporary Politics: Donald Trump Trump's story of victimhood, self-made success, and defiance of institutions as a charismatic myth Trump's stream-of-consciousness style perceived as authenticity by many followers. “For example, his rambling stream of consciousness, speaking style that actually is a core, is core to his appeal, I think for many Trump supporters because it comes across as a kind of authenticity—as a willingness to tell it how it is and speak off the top of his head. And authenticity as a personal style has no necessary relationship with honesty in terms of correspondence to, you know, empirically verifiable facts.” The alignment between his narrative and the prosperity gospel ”While Donald Trump is no one's idea of an Orthodox Christian, he grew up in Norman Vincent Peale's Church in New York City, Marble Collegiate Church, hearing the Prosperity Gospel, the gospel of positive thinking.” ”I think Trump has a, has a really acute spiritual instinct for. That picture of reality one in which we can really reshape reality with our minds.” Early support from independent charismatic church networks shaped his rise. Importance of positive thinking theology (e.g., Norman Vincent Peale) in his spiritual instincts. “I suppose I was about two thirds of the way through the rough draft of this book when I was rudely interrupted by the Holy Spirit. I have always studied Christianity as a very sympathetic and, frankly, envious outsider and never was entirely happy with my agnostic fence sitting, but also wasn't actively looking to resolve my metaphysical questions.” “ I've always had this conviction that humans are fundamentally religious creatures and they have this impulse to connect to a transcendent source of meaning to worship.” “I came to realize that I was writing a book that was fundamentally about spiritual hunger and how humans cope with it. But that I myself had had that hunger as well—that I'm not immune to that feature of the human dilemma.” “We want to be pulled into something transcendent, where we are more fully ourselves.” Praying for a mystical experience—at least being “strangely warmed” ”God had already done something to my desires—I was walking in the direction of Jesus already.” “ I always see every kind of historical problem as somehow having to do with contesting visions of human nature.” “There's this silly misconception that Christianity is intellectually stultifying—that to become a orthodox, traditional Christian is to shut off all kinds of questions and accept a black and white way of thinking. And that has not been my experience.” Research project on miracles “ Evangelism is just telling people what happened to you.” Conversion was driven by rigorous academic inquiry into the resurrection and New Testament Experience echoed themes in the book: story, vulnerability, and being seen Her analysis: “God had already done something to my desires before the arguments convinced me.” Post-conversion excitement about theological study, healing, and miracles Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment Magazine and Fuller Seminary.

Join Fr. Anthony Messeh for Part 3 of Just the Beginning, a three week Holy 50 series. https://www.youtube.com/stsachurchhttps://www.stsa.church/the-well

Listen to Fr. Timothy Fam's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

Full Text of ReadingsMonday of the Fourth Week of Easter Lectionary: 279The Saint of the day is Saint Leopold MandicSaint Leopold Mandic's story Western Christians who are working for greater dialogue with Orthodox Christians may be reaping the fruits of Father Leopold's prayers. A native of Croatia, Leopold joined the Capuchin Franciscans and was ordained several years later in spite of several health problems. He could not speak loudly enough to preach publicly. For many years he also suffered from severe arthritis, poor eyesight, and a stomach ailment. For several years Leopold taught patrology, the study of the Church Fathers, to the clerics of his province, but he is best known for his work in the confessional, where he sometimes spent 13-15 hours a day. Several bishops sought out his spiritual advice. Leopold's dream was to go to the Orthodox Christians and work for the reunion of Roman Catholicism and Orthodoxy. His health never permitted it. Leopold often renewed his vow to go to the Eastern Christians; the cause of unity was constantly in his prayers. At a time when Pope Pius XII said that the greatest sin of our time is “to have lost all sense of sin,” Leopold had a profound sense of sin and an even firmer sense of God's grace awaiting human cooperation. Leopold, who lived most of his life in Padua, died on July 30, 1942, and was canonized in 1982. In the Roman liturgy his feast is celebrated on July 30. Reflection Saint Francis advised his followers to “pursue what they must desire above all things, to have the Spirit of the Lord and His holy manner of working” (Rule of 1223, Chapter 10)—words that Leopold lived out. When the Capuchin minister general wrote his friars on the occasion of Leopold's beatification, he said that this friar's life showed “the priority of that which is essential.” Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Listen to Fr. Abraham Fam's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

Join Fr. Anthony Messeh as he discusses "Christ Among Us" in this Holy 50 series.https://www.youtube.com/stsachurchhttps://www.stsa.church/the-well

Listen to Fr. Timothy Fam's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

In this inspiring episode of Stories of Hope, we sit down with Lucy Cuneo, a passionate young Orthodox Christian whose journey has taken her across the globe—and ultimately to Project Mexico. Lucy shares her personal story of faith, travel, and service, offering insight into what it's like to live abroad as a young Orthodox believer. Discover how her international experiences shaped her spiritual growth, and how her path led her to support vulnerable communities in Mexico. Her commitment, vibrant personality, and heartfelt devotion to meaningful work exemplify how stepping outside your comfort zone can open unexpected doors. Whether you're interested in Orthodox Christian missions, faith-based travel, or simply seeking uplifting stories of hope and transformation, this episode offers a powerful reminder of the impact one person can make.

Join Fr. Timothy for Part 1 of Just the Beginning, a 3 week Holy 50 series. https://www.youtube.com/stsachurchhttps://www.stsa.church/the-well

Listen to Fr. Anthony Messeh's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

In this episode, we dive into one of the most talked-about education and religious liberty cases of this term: Mahmoud v. Taylor. At the heart of the case? A Maryland school district's decision to include LGBTQ-inclusive storybooks in the elementary curriculum—and to eliminate the opt-out policy that once allowed parents to excuse their children from these lessons on religious grounds.We explore the constitutional questions raised by Muslim, Catholic, and Orthodox Christian families who say their religious rights were sidelined, and the school district's rationale that maintaining opt-outs was unworkable and potentially stigmatizing. What does the First Amendment really protect when it comes to public education, religious upbringing, and curriculum decisions? Tune in as we unpack the legal arguments, the court's reasoning, and what this case could mean for schools and families across the country.Here are our sources: - https://www.oyez.org/cases/2024/24-297- https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/24/24-297/335502/20241218150621210_24-297%20-%20Mahmoud%20v.%20Taylor%20-%20Brief%20in%20Opposition.pdf: - https://www.supremecourt.gov/DocketPDF/24/24-297/351193/20250304160341072_Mahmoud%20Merits%20Opening%20Brief%20FINAL%20REVISED.pdf- https://www.oyez.org/cases/2024/24-297- https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/mahmoud-v-taylor/

Entrepreneur, Orthodox Christian, and former radio host Jimmy Harris shares his own experiences with overcoming financial adversity using sound Biblical principles, and through this, leading his family into financial peace and prosperity. Enjoy the show!

Can Catholics believe in both a historical Adam and Eve and modern evolutionary theory? We explore how Church teaching reconciles faith and science, along with insights on Jesus' divinity in the Gospels, the death of a pope, and Catholic relations with Protestants and Orthodox Christians. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Questions Covered:  04:24 – Why in the debate with Bart Ehrmann, he had a disagreement about Jesus saying He was divine in the synoptic gospels? Why?  18:11 – I heard a claim that the Church wanted Luther dead, is this true?  24:11 – How should we treat the death of the Pope? Can we say he is already in heaven?   31:13 – How can the historical Adam and Eve fit in with modern evolutionary science?   44:24 – Was Jesus born in a cave or a house?   47:03 – Can I go to a Protestant service, if I still go to Mass?   49:18 – I heard there is a reentering of communion between Rome and Anglicans. Will this be on hold with the passing of Pope Francis?  52:16 – Can you explain the Orthodox claim that the church was originally beyond just Rome because Peter founded a church in Antioch?  

In this essay, Graham McGeoch speaks about his research of Orthodox Christian influences on Anarchism in Latin America. A fuller version of the research was published in the edited volume, Orthodoxy and Anarchism: Contemporary Perspectives (ed Davor Dzalto, Rowman & Littlefield, 2024). Dr Graham McGeoch teaches Theology & Religious Studies at Faculdade Unida de Vitoria, Brazil and is a Visiting Professor at the University of Pretoria, South Africa. His most recent publications include, Russian Émigré Theology and Latin American Liberation Theology (Volos, 2023), World Christianity and Ecological Theologies (eds. Raimundo Baretto, Graham McGeoch & Wanderley Pereira da Rosa, Fortress Press, 2024), Theology After Gaza (eds Mitri Raheb & Graham McGeoch, Cascade, 2025). Anarchist Essays is brought to you by Loughborough University's Anarchism Research Group and the journal Anarchist Studies. Follow us on Bluesky @anarchismresgroup.bsky.social Our music comes from Them'uns (featuring Yous'uns). Artwork by Sam G.

Why This Religious Debate Has Everyone Talking?

Michael Lofton brings Ethiopian Orthodox Deacon Mihret Melaku back on the show to break down Cliffe Knecthle’s post-debate response.

In this episode I am joined by Rebekah Sturghill, mother, school teacher, and convert to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah details her upbringing in a Texan evangelical church and how encounters with authoritarianism and questions about her sexuality saw her leave the religion. Rebekah describes a period of passionate teenage atheism before becoming deeply involved in feminist activism beginning in university. Rebekah explains why she remains a feminist but left activism and how, through a powerful visionary experience, she converted to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah also explores the mechanisms of conversion, considers the line between faith and extremism, and comments on the pros and cons of a new trend of conversions to Orthodox Christianity driven by internet influencers and discussion communities. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep302-my-conversion-to-orthodox-christianity-rebekah-sturghill Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Evangelical Christian upbringing in Texas 04:17 - Studying theology and philosophy at St Johns College 04:38 - Encountering Jesus through reading the Gospels 05:39 - Feminist activism 06:09 - Joining the Orthodox Church 08:18 - Anger at religion and questioning sexuality 11:22 - Authoritarianism in the church 12:26 - Why Rebekah's family left the church 14:05 - Religious community vs contemplative practice 16:19 - Contemplative emphasis in the Orthodox Church 17:10 - Youth groups and community emphasis 18:16 - Radical atheism phase and the impact on family 23:18 - Becoming a feminist activist 25:50 - Questioning feminist theory, struggles with relativism and essentialism 26:52 - Becoming a 2nd wave feminist 28:34 - Influence of the internet on Rebekah's various conversions 31:35 - Conversion or coming home? 33:42 - What feminism really is 35:18 - Frustrations with 3rd wave feminism 40:08 - Why feminist activism? 44:34 - Still a feminist? Which views Rebekah still holds 48:00 - Orthodox Christian view of the individual and equality 49:47 - Are Rebekah's views controversial? 51:43 - In-fighting and leaving activism 54:17 - Religious extremists and extreme activism 55:53 - Losing oneself in extremism 57:50 - Critical mass of buy-in needed for conversion 58:13 - Embracing the dharma or losing oneself? 01:01:46 - CS Lewis' “The Great Divorce” 01:03:36 - Dying to oneself 01:04:54 - Theosis and losing oneself 01:05:42 - Popularity of Orthodox Christianity online, a new wave of converts 01:07:26 - The practice of Orthodoxy Christianity and the supernatural 01:09:05 - Lent 01:09:55 - High profile conversions to Orthodoxy and an internet pipeline 01:11:22 - Rebekah's conversion through relationships and community 01:13:15 - The moment of conversion 01:14:41 - Powerful first conversation with an Orthodox priest … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James

On today's Bible Answer Man broadcast (04/16/25), Hank continues to provide an overview of the days of Holy Week, picking up with Holy Wednesday, otherwise known as Spy Wednesday. For on the Wednesday of the last week of Christ's earthly sojourn, Judas became a spy for the enemies of the Messiah. On this day, the ancient Church commemorates the ultimate in contrasts. A prostitute transformed into a pure bride, in contrast to a chosen disciple who conspires with sinful men to betray the King of Truth.Hank also answers the following questions:   I have a friend who is a member of Rodney Howard-Browne's church. If he believes in the essentials, how does that make his ministry a cult, and how can I explain that to my friend? Nancy - PA (15:49)What is your take on sola scriptura now as an Orthodox Christian, and do you think it is biblical? Chris - Seattle, WA (19:37)I heard you say the other day that there was no rapture. Am I incorrect, or did you actually say that? Charles - Dexter, MO (23:09)

What happens when we examine the foundational Protestant doctrine of Sola Scriptura through an Orthodox Christian lens? This thought-provoking seminar challenges the notion that Scripture alone is the final authority for Christians by examining biblical, historical, and theological evidence to the contrary.Ben (Luigi), a former Protestant pastor's son who later embraced Reformed theology before finding his home in Orthodox Christianity, brings both personal experience and scholarly depth to this complex subject. With remarkable clarity, Luigi demonstrates how Scripture itself affirms the authority of oral tradition alongside written texts, pointing to passages where Jesus and the apostles relied on extrabiblical traditions as binding and authoritative.The seminar explores how the early Church resolved doctrinal disputes through councils rather than individual interpretation, establishing a pattern that continued through the ecumenical councils which defined essential Christian doctrines. Ben tackles the challenging "canon conundrum" – how Protestants must rely on Church authority to establish which books belong in the Bible while simultaneously rejecting that same authority in matters of interpretation and practice.Drawing from Church Fathers like St. Basil and St. Irenaeus, Ben reveals how the earliest Christians viewed Scripture and Tradition not as competing authorities but as complementary expressions of divine revelation. Even Protestant scholars acknowledge that the early Church didn't limit "inspiration" to canonical writings alone.Whether you're an Orthodox Christian seeking to better understand and articulate your faith, a Protestant curious about Orthodox perspectives, or simply interested in Christian history and theology, this seminar provides valuable insights into how the earliest Christians understood authority, revelation, and the relationship between Scripture and Tradition. Join us for this illuminating exploration of a foundational theological difference that continues to shape Christian dialogue today.Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/homeVisit Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://cloudofwitnessesradio.com/Questions about Orthodoxy?  Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server:https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdh*****Contact this episode's sponsor:LuciaCandleCompany.Etsy.com*****Please prayerfully consider supporting Cloud of Witnesses Radio:https://www.patreon.com/c/CloudofWitnessesRadioFind Cloud of Witnesses Radio on Instagram, X.com, Facebook, and TikTok.Thank you for journeying w/ the Saints with us!

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections ​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew ​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections ​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew ​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​ Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​THE NINTH HOUR, which corresponds by our reckoning to the third hour of the afternoon, recalls the death of the Savior on the Cross, the earthquake, the arising of the dead from the graves, and the piercing of the side of the Lord with a spear. In accordance with this, corresponding psalms are selected. In them the dwellings of the Lord of hosts and a burning desire to enter into them are depicted; the prophecy of the Lord's redemption of men is expounded; and the Lord's descent into Hades is portrayed. The history of the origins of the Ninth hour is the same as that of the First, Third, and Sixth Hours; it is ascribed to the third century and the years that followed, which may also be observed in surviving literary monuments. At the reading of the Hours it is customary to read the Troparion and Kontakion hymns of the feast (if applicable) or of the saint of the day. However, in order to make the Hours herein available for general use throughout the Church year, the Troparion and Kontakion to the Holy Cross are used.​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​THE SIXTH HOUR, which corresponds by our reckoning to the twelfth hour of the day, recalls the salvific events which took place at that hour: the crucifixion of the Lord on the Cross between two thieves, the mockery of the soldiers and of those who passed by the suffering Lord, and the darkness which then covered the earth. In accordance with this, corresponding psalms are selected. In them prayer is offered up unto the Lord with hope in His aid, and the betrayal of Judas, the hatred of the Jews who sought the death of the Lord, and the sufferings of the Savior, both spiritual and bodily, are prophetically depicted; the darkness which covered the earth from the sixth until the ninth hour is depicted; then the gladness of men who turn to God for help is portrayed. In ancient handwritten Horologia the psalms of the Sixth Hour are the same as they are today. At the reading of the Hours, it is customary to read the Troparion and Kontakion hymns of the feast (if applicable) or of the saint of the day. However, in order to make the Hours herein available for general use throughout the Church year, the Troparion and Kontakion to the Holy Cross are used.Holy Cross Monastery Online Store:https://holycross.org/collectionsHoly Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755HOLY CROSS MONASTERY is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org. ​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​THE THIRD HOUR, which corresponds by our reckoning to the ninth hour of the morning, recalls how the Savior was judged by Pilate, there enduring countless mockeries, blows, beatings, and being crowned with a crown of thorns. Together with this, that which took place at this hour, as witnessed to in the Book of Acts, is also recalled - the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. In accordance with this, corresponding psalms are selected. In ancient Horologia, beginning with the well known Horologion of the Sinai library from the eighth century, troparia were indicated together with the psalms we have today. At the reading of the Hours it is customary to read the Troparion and Kontakion hymns of the feast (if applicable) or of the saint of the day. However, in order to make the Hours herein available for general use throughout the Church year, the Troparion and Kontakion to the Holy Cross are used.Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755 HOLY CROSS MONASTERY is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org. ​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​THE FIRST NOUR, which corresponds by our reckoning to the seventh hour of the morning, recalls how the Lord Jesus Christ was led into the praetorium from Caiaphas to Pilate, “like an evil-doer, the Benefactor bound, and how there the Judge of all the world was slandered by the lawless high priests and elders of the Jews, and by an unjust judge was condemned.” It is believed that the First Hour was established in Palestinian monasteries in the fourth century. At the reading of the Hours it is customary to read the Troparion and Kontakion hymns of the feast (if applicable) or of the saint of the day. However, in order to make the Hours herein available for general use throughout the Church year, the Troparion and Kontakion to the Holy Cross are used. Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755 HOLY CROSS MONASTERY is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​HOLY CROSS MONASTERY is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​​Used with permission.

​This podcast presents the full Psalter in the 20 sections (kathismata) as read in the course of one week during daily Matins and Vespers in Orthodox Christian monasteries and in personal daily prayer by those who would pray the Psalter in this way.​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections ​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew ​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​HOLY CROSS MONASTERY is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https:= holycross.org. ​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections ​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew ​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​​Used with permission.

​Holy Cross Monastery Online Store: https://holycross.org/collections​Holy Cross Monastery Live Broadcast: https://youtube.com/channel/UCQ-sqeQbmgzrL0t8uFJm4Ew​Paypal Donation Link: https://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/1336755​Holy Cross Monastery is an English-speaking Orthodox Christian monastic brotherhood within the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia in the Diocese of Eastern America & New York. Learn more about the life and ministry of the monastery at https://holycross.org.​Used with permission.

Canadian Catholics raise awareness about important issues ahead of the federal election. President Trump gains some limited victories at the Supreme Court; legal analysis on its decisions. The countdown to Canonization begins for Blessed Carlo Acutis; how he inspired teens in rural Kansas as they prepared for Confirmation. East and West will meet on Easter Sunday; how Catholics and Orthodox Christians are preparing for a shared celebration.

Listen to Fr. Abraham Fam's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

Orthodox Christian DESTROYS Protestant in Eucharist Debate | Theology Unpacked (Deacon Mihret Melaku vs. Stuart Knechtle)

Listen to Fr. Anthony Messeh's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

My guest this week is Mano Elia from the Study of Stuff Podcast and the Bored No More Network. Mano was born into an Orthodox Christian family and strayed from the faith as he ventured into Hermeticism and the Dark Arts. He has now returned to the Orthodox faith, is well versed in the occult, and is here to warn folks against it. Hermeticism is the inverse of Christianity and in this chat, he explains that step by step. We get into the dangers of TikTok spirituality, witchcraft, astrology, and so on. We also get into the new Zine they're putting out over at which YOU should check out now! Sponsors: Tiger Fitness:   Sheath Underwear:   Code: Counterflow Donate to the show here:   Visit my website:   Audio Production by Podsworth Media:   Leave us a review and rating on Apple Podcasts! Thanks!

In this fourth installment on the Problem of Evil, Dr. Jacobs explores the complex relationship between divine providence and human freedom. What does it mean that God delegates subsovereignce to creation? And how does divine foreknowledge interact with human self-determination? Tune in as we examine biblical figures like Abraham, Job, and Saul alongside the desecration of goodness and the atheist's problem with evil. This episode lays crucial groundwork for understanding the synergistic nature of providence before our final exploration of theodicy.All the links: X: https://x.com/NathanJacobsPodSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0hSskUtCwDT40uFbqTk3QSApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nathan-jacobs-podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenathanjacobspodcastSubstack: https://nathanajacobs.substack.com/Website: https://www.nathanajacobs.com/Academia: https://vanderbilt.academia.edu/NathanAJacobs 00:00:00 Intro 00:02:13 The rational ordering principle00:13:17 What is the individual? 00:32:05 Divine foreknowledge 00:40:08 Abraham, Job, & Saul 00:52:06 Providence: blueprint or synergy? 01:01:29 The desecration of goodness01:08:28 The atheist's evil problem 01:18:51 So why doesn't God intervene? 01:34:30 God delegates subsovereignce  01:46:06 A critical feature of providence 01:49:51 What DOES God do? 01:56:49 The divine energies 02:16:40 The synergistic nature of providence 02:27:17 Engaging in self-determinationOther words for the algorithm… Leibniz, A defense of God, Epicurus, David Hume, Heraclitus, The Problem of Pain, The Problem of Divine Hiddenness, Christianity, Eastern Christianity, Orthodox Christian, Christianity, Evangelical, Protestant, Catholicism, Catholics, pantheism, Empedocles, body-soul dualism, metaphysical dualism, Manichaeism, Augustine of Hippo, Plato, Aristotle, Socrates, C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, Nicene Creed, The Arian Dispute, Christology, Seven Ecumenical Councils, Jonathan Pageau, Fr. Josiah Trenham, Jordan Peterson, Pints With Aquinas, Christian apologetics, theology, Alex O'Connor, John of Damascus, Alvin Plantinga, modal logic, Scholastics, the consequent will of God, Origen, complex goods, Theism, philosophy of religion, natural theology, moral philosophy, ontological argument, teleological argument, cosmological argument, ancient philosophy, patristics, church fathers, suffering, existentialism, free will, determinism, sovereignty, divine attributes, omnipotence, omniscience, benevolence, theological ethics, moral evil, natural evil, comparative religion, religious epistemology, divine justice, meaning of suffering, spiritual formation, rationalism, empiricism, atheism, agnosticism, William Lane Craig, Ravi Zacharias, Bishop Barron, apologetics debate, philosophical theology, Thomas Aquinas, divine providence, spiritual warfare, eschatology, redemptive suffering, qualified omnipotence

What's it like to be an Orthodox Christian in Syria? Father Josiah Trenham shares powerful stories of faith under fire. Over 12 years ago, Sunni jihadists kidnapped the Archbishop. Today's Archbishop faces no less danger. When the leader of ISIS passed through Aleppo, he sent a chilling message: "I'll have your head." The Archbishop's bold reply? "Come and take it—I'm not leaving my people."The courage of Syrian Christians under persecution is both inspiring and convicting—a sharp contrast to the religious freedom we often take for granted. Join Father Josiah and me as we explore religious freedom worldwide, the history of the Orthodox Church, the power of martyrs, and more.Fr Josiah's YouTube channel: ⁨@PatristicNectarFilms⁩ NEW: Join our exclusive Rose Report community! https://lilaroseshow.supercast.com - We'll have BTS footage, ad-free episodes, monthly AMA, and early access to our upcoming guests.A big thanks to our partner, EWTN, the world's leading Catholic network! Discover news, entertainment and more at https://www.ewtn.com/ Check out our Sponsors:-EveryLife: https://www.everylife.com Buy diapers from an amazing pro-life diaper company and use code LILA and get 10% off!-Crowd Health: https://www.joincrowdhealth.com/ The new alternative to health insurance - sign up and use the code "LILA" for a special deal of $99 for your first 3 months!-Covenant Eyes: http://covenanteyes.sjv.io/Kjngb9 Sign up to grow in purity and gain traction over sexual addiction: use code “LILA” for a free month!00:00:00 - Intro00:03:46 - Why Orthodox?00:09:09 - Catholic vs Orthodox00:09:43 - Covenant Eyes00:10:46 - Orthodox vs Catholic vs Protestant00:19:08 - Orthodox are Very Stubborn00:20:22 - Crowd Health00:21:21 - Orthodox Liturgy melted Father's heart00:25:41 - Biggest differences between Catholic and Orthodox?00:29:42 - EveryLife00:30:30 - “Radical Difference” in understanding of Holy Spirit00:41:50 - Christians in Syria and Middle East00:44:40 - Early Church Martyrs00:48:43 - Are you in touch with Christians in Syria?00:50:28 - Islam and War in Syria00:54:56 - What do you make of moderate Muslims?01:09:06 - What can we do for Syrians?01:14:41 - Trump Administration

Join Fr. Anthony Messeh for Part 5 of In His Steps.https://www.youtube.com/stsachurchhttps://www.stsa.church/the-well

Listen to Fr. Timothy Fam's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

Justino Carneiro discusses the science of conspirology and the Orthodox perspective on the global elite, geopolitical dynamics, the budding technocracy, and practical as well as spiritual solutions to our troubles. Watch on BitChute/ Brighteon / Rumble / Substack / YouTube Geopolitics & Empire · Justino Carneiro: Orthodox Views on Geopolitics, Globalism, & Technocracy #533 *Support Geopolitics & Empire! Become a Member https://geopoliticsandempire.substack.com Donate https://geopoliticsandempire.com/donations Consult https://geopoliticsandempire.com/consultation **Visit Our Affiliates & Sponsors! Above Phone https://abovephone.com/?above=geopolitics easyDNS (15% off with GEOPOLITICS) https://easydns.com Escape Technocracy course (15% off with GEOPOLITICS) https://escapethetechnocracy.com/geopolitics PassVult https://passvult.com Sociatates Civis (CitizenHR, CitizenIT, CitizenPL) https://societates-civis.com Wise Wolf Gold https://www.wolfpack.gold/?ref=geopolitics Websites X https://x.com/katechon22 Telegram https://t.me/ESFERATERRA Total War and Spiritual Insurgency by Justino Carneiro | Chișinău Forum 2024 https://iurierosca.substack.com/p/total-war-and-spiritual-insurgency Katechontic Metapolitics in Orthodox Christian https://odysee.com/@chisinauforum:5/Katechontic-Metapolitics-in-Orthodox-Christian:c About Justino Carneiro Justino Carneiro is an academic researcher at the Institute of Philosophy of the University of Porto, Portugal. He was formerly an assistant professor of Biopolitics in the Master's degree of History, International Relations and Cooperation at the University of Porto and is currently finishing his PhD on Political Theology as a Metaphysical System *Podcast intro music is from the song "The Queens Jig" by "Musicke & Mirth" from their album "Music for Two Lyra Viols": http://musicke-mirth.de/en/recordings.html (available on iTunes or Amazon)

Listen to Fr. Abraham Fam's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church

This week, my guest is Joseph Beard. Joseph is a catechumen and soon-to-be baptized Orthodox Christian. He grew up the son of a Baptist preacher, and his family moved from town to town as various controversies followed his father. Along the way, he got into various subculture scenes and was able to maintain his faith as God sprinkled breadcrumbs along the way that would ultimately lead him to the Orthodox church. Joseph discusses the push out of Protestantism and the pull  into Christ's  True Church in this episode, and it is a journey that I think you will find quite beautiful. Joseph's coffee shop can be found here: PLEASE visit and donate to sweet Lily here:   Sponsors: Tiger Fitness:   Sheath Underwear:   Code: Counterflow Donate to the show here:   Visit my website:   Audio Production by Podsworth Media:   Leave us a review and rating on Apple Podcasts! Thanks!

Ask David My friend won't say thank you! Dating Anxiety Religion vs. Psychotherapy We want to remind you about an awesome virtual workshop on habits and addictions that Dr. Jill Levitt and David will be presenting on March 28, 2025 We will feature powerful new paradoxical techniques that will blow your socks off. It will be from 8:30 to 4:30 and you will earn 7 CE credits while having fun and learning how to heal yourself AND you patients. Check it out! It's less than two weeks away, some check it out while you still have time! You'' LOVE it and LEARN a LOT! Registration and More Information Here! As is so often the case, the answers to these questions that appear in the show notes were email replies to the person before the show. To get the full discussion, make sure you listen to the actual podcast, as the answers often evolve in unexpected ways when the “experts” hash it out! Today's episode is chock full of personal stories (some racy), expert Five Secrets advice and demonstration,  philosophical / spiritual discussion, and secrets of successful (and racy) dating. 1. Brittany asks: What can I do say to a friend who does not say “thank you” when I pay for our meal or drive a long distance just to see them? 2. Jaydipe asks: How can I get over my anxiety around attractive women? 3. Ali asks: Can religious beliefs cause or intensify feelings of anxiety? (David will talk about the synergies between TEAM CBT and spirituality in all religions. He will also mention the potential antagonisms.)   1. Brittany asks: What can I do say to a friend who does not say “thank you” when I pay for our meal or drive a long distance just to see them. Hello David and Rhonda, I have a friend who typically does not say thank you to me when I pay for a meal out or drive us a long distance. I am someone who always says thank you even if the other person just bought us $10 worth of fast food or gave a short ride. I find myself feeling resentful towards my friend for not saying anything when I pay and drive us around all day. It makes me feel like they don't appreciate it. At the same time, talking about it and sharing my feelings would then feel like I'm asking them to say it, and then it would not feel authentic. I have said something about it in the past, and they were like I'm sorry, thank you. But it didn't mean much at that point. Is this one of those annoying traits I just learn to accept? Thank you, Brittany David's reply Well, you could just use a gentle I Feel statement, which might be paradoxically stronger, but combined with Stroking. Like this, "Jennie, you know I think the world of you, and greatly enjoy our times together, but when I pay for lunch, or drive a distance to hang out with you, you rarely ever say "thank you," and then I feel hurt and unappreciated." Something like that combines Stroking with I Feel and might be effective. But I always rate myself on what I do, or say, and not so much on how the other person reacts. You could, perhaps, also ask if they are upset with you about something that they've had trouble expressing to you. Best, david 2. Jaydipe asks: How can I get over my anxiety around attractive women? Hi David Many thanks for the podcast I'm struggling with social anxiety and talking to attractive women and I've watched all the podcasts relating to it. I think deep down I have a shame around finding women attractive, so I find it difficult to express interest in them. I find that I can talk to them easily during activities like climbing or co workers, but even on dates with women I can't seem to take things forwards playfully like you'd expect on a date. I'm too serious and I think that turns people off. I feel like I'm under the spotlight and I have to impress them otherwise they won't like me. I know this isn't true and I've been trying to get myself to do exposure therapy by asking girls for their numbers and being rejected so it helps with that. Also, I struggle with societal expectations, I hear women say that they don't want to be approached or talked to or anything so I just end up avoiding them because I don't want to annoy them, but it holds me back from getting the sex and relationships I want Any help much appreciated Thanks, Jaydipe David's Reply I have included your excellent question on an upcoming Ask David. In the meantime, have you read my book on dating, Intimate Connections? Best, david PS Should I use your first name, or a fake first name? 3. Ali asks: Can religious beliefs cause or intensify feelings of anxiety? Dear Dr. Burns, After reading your books, I've started to recognize that many of my anxious beliefs seem to have a religious background. For example, in the Bible, there's a verse from John 5:14: “Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, ‘See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.'” Here's where I struggle: I want to live my life freely, which includes things like being with different girls before marriage (something I already do). But according to religion, this is considered adultery and a sin. Another verse that weighs heavily on me is from Matthew 5:27-29: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” I often find myself looking at beautiful women on the street, which Christianity teaches is sinful, and this sometimes leads to feelings of guilt. I wonder: do I need to leave religion altogether to break free from these negative, self-critical thoughts? I also have other related thoughts that seem to link my faith with the good things happening in my life. For instance: My life is going well right now. My parents are alive, my brother is getting married, I'm healthy, and I've been fortunate in many ways. I've had incredible experiences, like participating in two Erasmus+ exchange programs in Poland and Lithuania during university, volunteering in Latvia for a year, and even having my New Zealand visa approved in a highly competitive process (only 100 spots for 85 million people, and the application closed in 5 minutes!). I often think that these blessings are because I believe in Jesus, follow the Bible, and try to live as a good person who avoids sin and doesn't deceive others. But then these anxious thoughts arise: I should always be thankful or pray, or else my life will fall apart. If I leave religion, something bad might happen—my parents could fall ill or pass away, and it would all feel like my fault for turning away from Jesus. Without faith, I'd lose my good fortune(luck), my appearance, and my opportunities. Wherever I apply to would be rejected, then I would understand that it was Jesus in the first place doing all of these things in my life, not me or vice versa! I'd find a terrible job, terrible working environment, terrible mutual relationships. Then everything would be my fault and I'd tell myself I should have believed in him in the first place but now I deserve everything that happens to me! These thoughts are overwhelming, and I'd love to hear your perspective on how to approach and challenge them. Thank you so much for your time and the invaluable insights you share in your work. Warm regards, Ali David's reply Hi Ali, Sorry you are struggling with so many restrictions, judgments, and inhibitions! I can imagine it triggers anxiety, guilt, inadequacy, resentment, discouragement, and more. You can let me know! If you want, I can include this as an Ask David question on a podcast, with your first name, or a fake first name. Let me know if this works for you. Also, what religion are you? I know that many religions around the world can be very fundamentalistic and super strict in their teachings. My own religious upbringing had a touch of rigidity, too. Best, david Ali's response to David Hello again, Actually, my family comes from the Christian (Orthodox-Armenian) minority in Turkey, where I was born and raised. So, I am an Orthodox Christian. You're absolutely right that I struggle with many restrictions and judgments. I'd love for you to include this as an "Ask David" question on a podcast since I haven't seen any episode (and I've listened to most of your recent podcasts, including number 408: Do You Believe in God? Does God Exist?) that addresses this topic. By the way, I already use an alias, so "Ali" is a fake name, but you're welcome to use it in your podcast! Here's a quick DML (Daily Mood Log) to clarify what I'm dealing with: The Upsetting Event: Doing my daily half-hour Bible reading before bed and coming across certain verses. Emotions: Sad: 60% Anxious/Worried: 70% Inadequate: 60% Guilty/Bad: 90% Abandoned: 70% Pessimistic/Discouraged: 80% Stuck: 75% Angry/Resentful: 75% Tricked/Duped: 80% Although I don't consider myself a devout Christian, over the past few years, I've started reading the Bible—the Old and New Testaments. Initially, I read them in my native language, but now I read in English to fully understand the content. Growing up in the church, I believed everything the priest taught. However, encountering some events and stories that seem illogical to me has made me question my beliefs. I often feel tricked and wonder if I've truly believed in all this. At the same time, I feel anxious and worried, as if questioning or criticizing my religion is a betrayal of God. Please let me know if you need any additional information. Ali David's reply Thanks, Ali, this is super. I was also raised in a somewhat strict Christian (Lutheran) home, and as a child had plans to become a minister, like my dad. In college, I learned critical thinking, and began to question some of what I was taught when I was growing up. For example, there seemed to be a bit of a bias against Jews, and my dad said they had to convert to Christianity to be  ”saved” and, I guess, avoid going to hell after they died. That didn't sound right at all, not loving, as Christ taught, who was himself a Jew, but hostile and judgmental. And I had good friends who were Jewish, so it felt offensive. Same with people who were gay. A strong bias that this was somehow “bad” and sinful, or something like that. Christianity, in the sense of the Catholic church, was really created by people a couple hundred years after Christ died, and they were reflecting their own human biases when they wrote the new testament and translated the old testaments. For better or worse, I am personally not afraid to disagree with much of what is in the Bible, and interpret it, not literally, but as a series of stories trying to communicate important spiritual truths, but these truths get quite distorted when people began focusing on literal truths, rather than “seeing” the message. Literal translations of religion risk missing the spiritual meaning and truth. This is especially true of the orthodox movement within any religion. This tendency toward being literal, rigid, and judgmental may be a partially inherited, genetic trait. Regardless, to me, it is offensive and ugly, and definitely not religious, but quite the opposite. In the early days, lots of religious cults emerged, and they all had their own special leaders. If your leader couldn't walk on water, that guru was considered inferior. So, it was fashionable to say that your spiritual guru could “walk on water.” What does that really mean? To me, it means that this person is pretty special, and much kinder and more loving than most others, and can perhaps convey some spiritual truths to us. But actual walking on water is a magic trick best left to television and stage magicians. This is my thinking only, and I do not wish to impose my thinking and beliefs on you or on anybody! I had tremendous respect and admiration for a Catholic nun, Sister Shela Flynn, who worked at my clinic in Philadelphia because she wanted to learn how to do CBT. She was humble and wonderful, and once shared with me that she also thought the stories in the bible were primarily metaphors, just stories trying to convey this or that idea about love, humility, and so forth. Not literally true stories you “had to” believe to be a “good Christian.” An, in addition, using my philosophy and CBT training, there is really no such “thing” as a “good Christian.” Positive and negative labels can be useful but can also be hurtful and destructive. Will stop babbling, and feel free to reject or ignore some or everything I am saying! But on an emotional level, I feel hurt, and angry about the literal “rules-based” versions of religion. Because I see, all over the world, atrocities being committed to a massive degree in the name of this or that “religion.” I am most comfortable with Buddhism, but even then, many people take it literally, make up rules, and so forth, just like other religions or spiritual “paths.” For some reason, people love to make up rules and then try to force others to conform to their beliefs and rules. This is due, in large part, to arrogance, and the desire to feel “special” and “superior” to others. These are not, to my way of thinking, spiritual qualities, but quite the opposite. Finally, I do not mention religion in my therapy, which is 100% secular, and based on research and on scientific research on how people actually change. But at the moment of recovery, which often happens in a flash, rather suddenly, the patient often “sees” something of a spiritual nature which they had not seen or grasped before. I have never seen anyone lose their religious beliefs because of effective therapy, but quite the opposite. In fact, what we might call “recovery from depression” (or some other problem) sometimes looks an awful lot like what the religious mystics from all religions have called “enlightenment.” So, that's the sermon my dad would have perhaps wanted me to preach from a pulpit! I guess this is my pulpit, and you are in my congregation! And this Sunday morning here in Los Altos, so that's the end of today's sermon! Best, david Contact information You can sign up for the David and Jill workshop on healthier habits here: cbt-workshop.com

Join Fr. Anthony Messeh for Part 4 of In His Steps, a six week lent series. https://www.youtube.com/stsachurchhttps://www.stsa.church/the-well

Listen to Fr. Anthony Messeh's Sunday sermon.www.stsa.church