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Jordanville ReadingsThe Pursuit of Godliness - Book Launch Event with Bishop IreneiToday, we have a special feature: an interview with our esteemed author, the Right Reverend Bishop Irenei of London and Western Europe. Vladyka Irenei graciously hosted us in the parish hall of his Diocesan cathedral. Vladyka spoke about his motivations for writing his book, offered background on the patristic genre of “centuries” that he utilized in this work, and about the spiritual struggles that Orthodox Christians face today, and how to combat them."The Pursuit of Godliness: Five Centuries on Spiritual Ascent" by Bishop Irenei (Steenberg) of London and Western Europe is available for purchase at: https://holyt...2025-04-0541 minJordanville ReadingsThe Pursuit of Godliness - A Century on Worship and Prayer, and the Ascent of Humanity to God: 51-100Today's reading is from "The Pursuit of Godliness: Five Centuries on Spiritual Ascent" by Bishop Irenei (Steenberg) of London and Western Europe. https://www.holytrinitypublications.com/pursuit-godliness-irenei"The Pursuit of Godliness" is available for purchase at: https://bookstore.jordanville.org/9780884654995If you would like to help in the creation of more "Jordanville Readings" podcasts, consider supporting us on Patreon. As a "thank you" to our subscribers, we also offer special discounts on our online store. Visit https://www.patreon.com/c/HolyTrinity to set up a monthly donation. May Lord reward you for your generosity!2025-02-2634 minJordanville ReadingsThe Pursuit of Godliness - A Century on Worship and Prayer, and the Ascent of Humanity to God: 1-50Today's reading is from "The Pursuit of Godliness: Five Centuries on Spiritual Ascent" by Bishop Irenei (Steenberg) of London and Western Europe. https://www.holytrinitypublications.com/pursuit-godliness-irenei"The Pursuit of Godliness" is available for purchase at: https://bookstore.jordanville.org/9780884654995If you would like to help in the creation of more "Jordanville Readings" podcasts, consider supporting us on Patreon. As a "thank you" to our subscribers, we also offer special discounts on our online store. Visit https://www.patreon.com/c/HolyTrinity to set up a monthly donation. May Lord reward you for your generosity!2025-02-2421 minJordanville ReadingsThe Pursuit of Godliness - A Century on Love: 51-100Today's reading is from "The Pursuit of Godliness: Five Centuries on Spiritual Ascent" by Bishop Irenei (Steenberg) of London and Western Europe. https://www.holytrinitypublications.com/pursuit-godliness-irenei"The Pursuit of Godliness" is available for purchase at: https://bookstore.jordanville.org/9780884654995If you would like to help in the creation of more "Jordanville Readings" podcasts, consider supporting us on Patreon. As a "thank you" to our subscribers, we also offer special discounts on our online store. Visit https://www.patreon.com/c/HolyTrinity to set up a monthly donation. May Lord reward you for your generosity!2025-02-2118 minJordanville ReadingsThe Pursuit of Godliness - A Century on Love: 1-50Today's reading is from "The Pursuit of Godliness: Five Centuries on Spiritual Ascent" by Bishop Irenei (Steenberg) of London and Western Europe. https://www.holytrinitypublications.com/pursuit-godliness-irenei"The Pursuit of Godliness" is available for purchase at: https://bookstore.jordanville.org/9780884654995If you would like to help in the creation of more "Jordanville Readings" podcasts, consider supporting us on Patreon. As a "thank you" to our subscribers, we also offer special discounts on our online store. Visit https://www.patreon.com/c/HolyTrinity to set up a monthly donation. May Lord reward you for your generosity!2025-02-1922 min
Alive in ChristPrayer: Part 1Based on “Beginnings of a Life of Prayer” by Archimandrite Irenei Steenberg. 2024-09-1341 min
A Word from the Holy FathersBack to ForgivenessAs A Word From the Holy Fathers resumes after a summer hiatus, we look again at the theme of forgiveness in the writings of the Fathers—with an eye particularly toward practical injunctions on forgiveness and the relationship of repentance, forgiveness, and redemption in quotations from a variety of patristic sources. Fr Matthew also introduces the Patristic Quotations Topical Index.2022-08-2500 minA Word from the Holy FathersBack to ForgivenessWe look again at the theme of forgiveness in the writings of the Fathers—with an eye particularly toward practical injunctions on forgiveness and the relationship of repentance, forgiveness, and redemption in quotations from a variety of patristic sources. Archimandrite Irenei also introduces the Patristic Quotations Topical Index.2022-08-2500 min
Sermons from St. Herman's"Gospel" with a Capital "G"On Palm Sunday, inspired by a podcast by Bishop Irenei Steenberg about Abba Dorotheos of Gaza, Fr. Matthew Howell preaches about the meaning of our Lord Jesus Christ's glorious entrance into Jerusalem. He quotes St. Dorotheos to explain the meaning of palms, branches, and why Christ rode on a donkey. He then focuses on how the donkey represents the irrational soul and how we must bring it into subjection to Christ. Along the way, he explains the meaning of the word "Gospel", refers to Geico insurance commercials, quotes from St. Paul's epistle to the Philippians and from Joshua 24, uses...2022-04-1721 minSermons from St. Herman'sThe Beginnings of a Life of PrayerOn the second Sunday of Great Lent on which the Orthodox Church commemorates St. Gregory Palamas, who is a "preacher of grace" and leader of the hesychastic movement in the 14th century, Fr. Matthew Howell talks about the place of prayer in our lives. He declares that prayer is about relationship with God rather than simply fulfilling an obligation to recite words from a book. After examining what prayer is or should be and what it is not, he reads several excerpts from the book The Beginnings of a Life of Prayer by Bishop Irenei Steenberg. He concludes by q...2022-03-2015 minA Word from the Holy FathersDo You Truly Believe in the Resurrection of Christ?In this week’s broadcast, Fr. Irenei examines a text by St. Cyril of Jerusalem, which prompts the Christian to ask the question, "Do I truly believe in Christ’s resurrection?" If so, how does this belief shape the actual decisions and determinations of our lives?2020-10-1600 min
The ArenaThe Shepherd and the Sheep, by Archimandrite Irenei (Steenberg)In this five-lecture series entitled The Shepherd and the Sheep, Archimandrite Irenei (Steenberg) unfolds the beautiful characteristics of our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, and guides the pastors of the Church in imitating the Chief Shepherd. These lectures are illumining not just for clergy, but for the laity as well, as Father Irenei encourages the faithful to live as faithful sheep in the flock of Christ. These lectures are entitled: The Good Shepherd The Spiritual Father Holy Confession The Shepherd in the Divine Liturgy Pastoring Children Download the first lecture here on Ancient Faith Radio. To download the remaining lectures please...2016-07-1331 minThe ArenaArchimandrite Irenei (Steenberg) on The Blind Man 20162016-06-0820 minA Word from the Holy FathersCreation and Sacrifice in St. Symeon the New TheologianFr Dcn Matthew explores the homilies of St Symeon on man and creation, and in particular the way in which the Christian response to ecological concerns resides in the theology of sacrifice and the participation in divine Communion - including brief remarks from a recent talk by Metropolitan Kallistos of Diokleia.2016-02-1000 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Cyprian on Cain, Abel, and True Self-SacrificeWhat are we to make of the Genesis account of Cain and Abel? In this broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei examines a portion of St Cyprian of Carthage’s treatise on the Lord’s prayer that shows forth Abel as the first martyr, the example of true self-sacrifice. And it is a lesson with a practical aim: the quenching of anger and hatred, and the discovery of a life offered more wholly to God.2014-12-1900 minA Word from the Holy FathersDefeating the Slavery of “Bad Habits”Among the greatest struggles in the Christian life are the "little things"—the day-to-day "bad habits" by which we continually fall, and which seem to trap us in our sin. Is there a way out? In this week’s episode, Archimandrite Irenei examines the Fathers on sin as habits, how these habits enslave us—and most importantly, how we can overcome our shackles and progress toward the Kingdom.2014-12-1800 minThe ArenaLove God With All Your Heart"Loving God Without Fear" is a free three-part lecture series by Father Irenei (Steenberg), Ph.D., author of “The Beginnings of a Life of Prayer." Father Irenei, a onetime fellow of Oxford University and Chair of Theology and Religious Studies at Leeds in the United Kingdom, is currently director of the Ss. Cyril and Athanasius Institute for Orthodox Studies and an Archimandrite in the Western American Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church in America. This is part three.2014-12-1244 minThe ArenaLove Moves: The Life of St. John the Wonderworker"Loving God Without Fear" is a free three-part lecture series by Father Irenei (Steenberg), Ph.D., author of “The Beginnings of a Life of Prayer." Father Irenei, a onetime fellow of Oxford University and Chair of Theology and Religious Studies at Leeds in the United Kingdom, is currently director of the Ss. Cyril and Athanasius Institute for Orthodox Studies and an Archimandrite in the Western American Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church in America. This is part two.2014-12-0647 minThe ArenaThe Mystery of Christian Life"Loving God Without Fear" is a free three-part lecture series by Father Irenei (Steenberg), Ph.D., author of “The Beginnings of a Life of Prayer." Father Irenei, a onetime fellow of Oxford University and Chair of Theology and Religious Studies at Leeds in the United Kingdom, is currently director of the Ss. Cyril and Athanasius Institute for Orthodox Studies and an Archimandrite in the Western American Diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church in America. This is part one.2014-11-2442 minA Word from the Holy FathersShall We Forgive? The Fathers on Forgiveness as the Gateway to SalvationThis week, in anticipation of Forgiveness Sunday, Archimandrite Irenei explores a series of patristic texts that deal with the imperative of forgiveness, and the need to forgive as the gateway into the life offered by Christ in the Church.2014-09-1800 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John Chrysostom on the Charity of FastingIn this week's broadcast, Fr. Dcn. Matthew offers a reflection on a selection of sayings of St John Chrysostom on the pastoral nature of fasting as an act of charity. In what sense does our fast minister to our neighbor?2014-09-1800 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt Athanasius: “What was God to do?”Why did God become man? This week's reflection explores St Athanasius's consideration of the Son's incarnation as a response to his probing refrain, in the face of man's sin: "What was God to do?"2014-09-1800 minA Word from the Holy Fathers“God Is There, Where the Understanding Does Not Reach”In this episode, Archimandrite Irenei returns to the Life of Moses by St Gregory of Nyssa, and examines a key passage in which the Saint compares the ascent of spiritual life to Moses’s ascent of Mt. Sinai. What does it mean to ascend into "darkness," to converse with God "where the understanding does not reach"? And how does Moses’s example reveal the way in which all the Fathers and Saints draw the whole Christian family into deeper communion with God?2014-07-0200 minA Word from the Holy FathersRising in RepentanceThis week, Archimandrite Irenei explores two passages - one by St. John of Karpathos and the other by St. Ambrose of Milan - on the nature of the continual falling down and rising up of repentance, examining the question: How is the Christian person to respond to continual failings in his attempts to live a holy life?2014-07-0200 minA Word from the Holy FathersAll to No Purpose Have I Left My True HomeThe second of the pre-Lenten Sundays draws our attention to the Prodigal Son and his departure—and return—to his father’s house. In this week’s episode, Archimandrite Irenei examines the Fathers’ testimony to this event, found in the Church’s hymns, and examines the nature of sin as exile in every Christian’s life.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersNot Like Other Men . . .As the pre-Lenten weeks of the Triodion begin, this week’s broadcast explores the themes of the Fathers’ liturgical heritage, taking from the Church’s hymnography the vivid imagery of the Publican and the Pharisee. How do we, ourselves, speak when we stand before God in prayer—and how ought this Sunday cause us to change?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Irenaeus: The Church Which Has Been Handed Down to UsFather Irenei examines two passages from St. Irenaeus of Lyons, which speak of receiving the truth of "the Church that has been handed down to us" from the Holy Apostles, and in which right belief is found without adulteration or error.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Father who Seeth in Secret Shall Reward Thee OpenlySt. John Chrysostom’s 19th homily on St. Matthew’s Gospel account addresses Christ’s promise of open rewards for secret acts—but what does this mean? In this broadcast, we explore the words of St. John on secret acts of virtue being shown forth "in the presence of the whole universe."2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersRepentance: The Daughter of HopeIn this week’s episode, Archimandrite Irenei explores St. John of the Ladder’s beautiful testimony of repentance as "the daughter of hope and the renunciation of despair." What is the nature of such repentance, and how does it raise up the Christian to "a sure resurrection"?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersIn the Clash of Destructive Errors, the Truth of the Church Stands RevealedFocusing on a text by St. Hilary of Poitiers, Fr. Irenei explores the Saint’s conviction that the multitude of heresies and errors surrounding us in the world are not to be feared or to become a cause for despair, for through their very error the Truth of Christ is revealed all the more in the Church.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John Chrysostom on the Wonder of the Nativity, Part 2In the second part of his reflection on St. John Chrysostom’s famed Nativity Homily, Fr. Irenei examines the concluding segments of the sermon, in which the Saint draws our hearts into the experience of the One who brought joy into the midst of the earth.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John Chrysostom on the Wonder of the Nativity, Part 1Beginning a two-part reflection on the famous Nativity Homily of St. John Chrysostom, this week Archimandrite Irenei examines sections of this most-exalted sermon that deal with the unexpected wonder of our salvation, wrought of the spotless offering of the Virgin.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt Mark the Ascetic: Taking Up the Cross With JoyThis week, Archimandrite Irenei examines a text by St. Mark the Ascetic in which the Christian is enjoined to "give himself entirely to the Cross," undergoing "with joy" the abasement that it brings. Do we live our lives in this way? Can we claim to be what St. Mark terms "true Christians"?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Sacrifice of Human FreedomTaking up a passage from the writings of St. Theophan the Recluse, Archimandrite Irenei examines the nature of human freedom, not as a thing good in itself, but which is to be sacrificed as a perfect offering to God.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt John of Sinai: “Let Us Charge Into the Fight With Joy and Love”Drawn from a remarkable passage from St. John of the Ladder, Archimandrite Irenei examines the crippling effect of spiritual fear on the life of the Christian, and draws from the saint’s guidance the help towards overcoming it with a trustful love in the power of God.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersFrom the Angel to St. Anthony: “Do This, and You Will Be Saved”This week’s broadcast focuses on an episode from the Life of St. Anthony the Great, in which the saint, seeking solace in his spiritual struggles, receives an angelic testimony to the way of salvation. Has this message something to teach the Christian struggling in the world today?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersWhat We Receive is Not our Own: A Testimony of St Macarius the GreatIn a remarkable text by St. Macarius, the Christian is told that if he sees an arrogant man perform miracles, "even raise the dead," he should not follow. This week, Fr. Irenei explores what this message means for the Orthodox Christian, and how the good works of God are to be stored up secretly in the loving Christian heart.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt John Chrysostom on the Many Blessings of Calling God FatherIn this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei considers Homily 19 on St. Matthew’s Gospel by St. John Chrysostom, exploring the richness of what calling God "our Father" means for our relationship both to Him and to one another as brethren.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersDid You Not Know That You Stood, Speaking to Him?Drawn from one of the sayings of the Desert Fathers relating to the life of Abba Ammon, this week’s episode focuses on the question of our attentiveness to God, in the Divine Services as well as in our whole life. Where is our mind—where our heart? Do we not know that we stand in His presence, speaking to Him?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe River of Jordan Streaming from my EyesThis week, Fr. Irenei reflects on one of the "Steps" from St John Klimakos’s Ladder to Paradise, in which the saint considers the life of the Christian and the judgement of others. Have we begun to live the life of repentance? Or does our judgement of our neighbor reveal that we have yet to grasp the true nature of our sin, and make a true beginning of abandoning it in Christ?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersA Friend of God, a Brother and Son of ChristBeginning the second series of "A Word From the Holy Fathers," Archimandrite Irenei calls upon the spiritual homilies of St. Makarios the Great, reflecting on the saint’s profound question, "Do you wish to be a friend of God, and a brother and son of Christ?" What does it mean to be God’s "friend," and how should this affect how we see ourselves—and what God requires of us—as Orthodox Christians?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Wonder of the Incarnation - St. Gregory the TheologianWe conclude the first series of A Word From the Holy Fathers with this fiftieth episode, in which Fr. Matthew examines a poignant reflection on "the wonder of the Incarnation" by St. Gregory of Nazianzus. The broadcast concludes with a small announcement about the conclusion of this series, and advance notice of its return with a new series in a month's time.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersGlory to God Who Has Shown Himself to Us: St. Ephrem and St. John on the NativityIn a broadcast for the Feast of the Nativity According to the Flesh of the Lord Jesus Christ, we reflect on two hymns of St. Ephrem the Syrian and a portion of a homily by St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco on the glory of the night of Christ’s full revelation.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersGlory to God Who Has Shown Himself to Us: St. Ephrem and St. John on the NativityIn a broadcast for the Feast of the Nativity According to the Flesh of the Lord Jesus Christ, we reflect on two hymns of St. Ephrem the Syrian and a portion of a homily by St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco on the glory of the night of Christ's full revelation.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersRemembering the Mother of God: St. Cyril on the Theotokos and the IncarnationIn this season of Christ’s incarnate coming in the flesh, we take a moment to reflect, through the words of St. Cyril of Alexandria, on the role of the Virgin Theotokos in the nativity of the true God, Jesus Christ.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersRemembering the Mother of God: St. Cyril on the Theotokos and the IncarnationIn this season of Christ's incarnate coming in the flesh, we take a moment to reflect, through the words of St. Cyril of Alexandria, on the role of the Virgin Theotokos in the nativity of the true God, Jesus Christ.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Coming of the Lord - St. Leo the GreatArchimandrite Irenei examines a sermon by St. Leo of Rome, normally read in the season of Pascha, yet which sheds great light on the coming of the Lord, and the pastoral message to be gleaned from the intense theological disputes about Christ’s natures that raged in the early Church.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Coming of the Lord - St. Leo the GreatFr. Matthew examines a sermon by St. Leo of Rome, normally read in the season of Pascha, yet which sheds great light on the coming of the Lord, and the pastoral message to be gleaned from the intense theological disputes about Christ's natures that raged in the early Church.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Nicholas Cabasilas on the Assurance of the True Body and BloodIn every age, there is the temptation to doubt the Mysteries of the Church—to question how it is that the faithful should remain secure in believing that Christ makes Himself truly present in Body and Blood at the Holy Table. In this week’s episode, Archimandrite Irenei examines an extended text by Nicholas Cabasilas on the substance of our faith in the Mystical Supper.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Nicholas Cabasilas on the Assurance of the True Body and BloodIn every age, there is the temptation to doubt the Mysteries of the Church—to question how it is that the faithful should remain secure in believing that Christ makes Himself truly present in Body and Blood at the Holy Table. In this week' episode, Fr. Matthew examines an extended text by Nicholas Cabasilas on the substance of our faith in the Mystical Supper.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersAbba Poemen the Great: On Softening the Hardest of HeartsIn this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei examines three sayings by Abba Poemen ("The Shepherd") of Egypt on the means by which the hardest heart can be softened by the Lord.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersAbba Poemen the Great: On Softening the Hardest of HeartsIn this week's broadcast, Fr. Dcn. Matthew examines three sayings by Abba Poemen ("The Shepherd") of Egypt on the means by which the hardest heart can be softened by the Lord.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John the Dwarf: A Life of All the VirtuesWhat has a man whose obedience once caused a barren stick to blossom forth a tree in the desert to tell us today about the life of virtue? Is it possible for man today to partake of all the virtues? In this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei examines two sayings of Fr. John the Short of Egypt on the accessibility of all the virtues through the foundation of the love of neighbor.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John the Dwarf: A Life of All the VirtuesWhat has a man whose obedience once caused a barren stick to blossom forth a tree in the desert to tell us today about the life of virtue? Is it possible for man today to partake of all the virtues? In this week’s broadcast, Fr. Matthew examines two sayings of Fr. John the Short of Egypt on the accessibility of all the virtues through the foundation of the love of neighbor.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John Chrysostom on the Charity of FastingIn this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei offers a reflection on a selection of sayings of St John Chrysostom on the pastoral nature of fasting as an act of charity. In what sense does our fast minister to our neighbor?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt John of the Ladder on Seeking a Suitable Way of LifeSt John of the Ladder, whom we normally read during Great Lent, is a Father who offers practical guidance to Christian life of every moment. In this week's broadcast, Fr Dcn Matthew explores a series of passages from Step 1 of St John's Ladder to Paradise, on the specific issue of the universal calling of the Christian life, coupled with the need for each person to seek out a suitable way of life for the spiritual struggle to be exercised.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt John of the Ladder on Seeking a Suitable Way of LifeSt. John of the Ladder, whom we normally read during Great Lent, is a Father who offers practical guidance to Christian life of every moment. In this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei explores a series of passages from Step 1 of St John’s Ladder to Paradise, on the specific issue of the universal calling of the Christian life, coupled with the need for each person to seek out a suitable way of life for the spiritual struggle to be exercised.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Cyprian on Cain, Abel, and True Self-SacrificeWhat are we to make of the Genesis account of Cain and Abel? In this broadcast, Fr. Matthew examines a portion of St Cyprian of Carthage's Treatise on the Lord's Prayer that shows forth Abel as the first martyr, the example of true self-sacrifice. And it is a lesson with a practical aim: the quenching of anger and hatred, and the discovery of a life offered more wholly to God.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersDefeating the Slavery of “Bad Habits”Among the greatest struggles in the Christian life are the "little things"—the day-to-day "bad habits" by which we continually fall, and which seem to trap us in our sin. Is there a way out? In this week's episode, Fr. Dcn. Matthew examines the Fathers on sin as habits, how these habits enslave us—and most importantly, how we can overcome our shackles and progress toward the Kingdom.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Contours of Christian LoveCan one call oneself a Christian without love? And what is the nature of the love we are called to show our neighbors? In this week’s episode, Archimandrite Irenei examines four patristic passages on love, and asks the question: What is it about Christian love that makes it unique in the world?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Contours of Christian LoveCan one call oneself a Christian without love? And what is the nature of the love we are called to show our neighbors? In this week's episode, Fr Matthew examines four patristic passages on love, and asks the question: What is it about Christian love that makes it unique in the world?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersFrom the Bone of Adam: St. Irenaeus on the Creation of EveThe Genesis account of Eve being created from the rib of Adam has, throughout history, often been interpreted in negative ways. In this week’s broadcast, through a brief text by St. Irenaeus of Lyons, Archimandrite Irenei examines a patristic vision of this creation grounding the true intimacy and mutual responsibility of the human community, male and female as ‘helpers’ of one another in the work of salvation.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersFrom the Bone of Adam: St. Irenaeus on the Creation of EveThe Genesis account of Eve being created from the rib of Adam has, throughout history, often been interpreted in negative ways. In this week's broadcast, through a brief text by St Irenaeus of Lyons, Fr. Dcn. Matthew examines a patristic vision of this creation grounding the true intimacy and mutual responsibility of the human community, male and female as "helpers" of one another in the work of salvation.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy Fathers“God Is There, Where the Understanding Does Not Reach”In this episode, Fr. Matthew returns to the Life of Moses by St Gregory of Nyssa, and examines a key passage in which the Saint compares the ascent of spiritual life to Moses's ascent of Mt. Sinai. What does it mean to ascend into "darkness," to converse with God "where the understanding does not reach"? And how does Moses's example reveal the way in which all the Fathers and Saints draw the whole Christian family into deeper communion with God?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John Chrysostom: Practical Guidance on Dealing with OthersSt. John Chrysostom’s preaching is filled with practical advice on living a Christian life in the world, and in this broadcast we look at four sayings in which he addresses commonplace issues in the Christian’s dealings with others: combating envy, overcoming offence, learning to conquer anger with love, and living in unity to the glory of God.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John Chrysostom: Practical Guidance on Dealing with OthersSt. John Chrysostom's preaching is filled with practical advice on living a Christian life in the world, and in this broadcast we look at four sayings in which he addresses commonplace issues in the Christian's dealings with others: combating envy, overcoming offence, learning to conquer anger with love, and living in unity to the glory of God.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Nicholas Cabasilas on the Trisagion HymnIn this episode, Archimandrite Irenei explores the commentary on the "Holy God..." by the 14th-century Byzantine lay theologian, St Nicholas Cabasilas. What is the significance of this ancient hymn of glorification of the Trinity? This episode features portions of recordings of the hymn by St Anthony’s Monastery, the Monastery of St John the Wonderworker, the Stretennia Men’s Chorus, and St Vladimir’s Orthodox Seminary.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Nicholas Cabasilas on the Trisagion HymnIn this episode, Fr. Dcn. Matthew explores the commentary on the "Holy God..." by the 14th-century Byzantine lay theologian, St Nicholas Cabasilas. What is the significance of this ancient hymn of glorification of the Trinity? This episode features portions of recordings of the hymn by St Anthony's Monastery, the Monastery of St John the Wonderworker, the Stretennia Men's Chorus, and St Vladimir's Orthodox Seminary.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Gregory of Nyssa on Emulating the Fortuitous Birth of MosesIn the first sections of the second book of his Life of Moses, St. Gregory of Nyssa instructs that Christians are to "emulate the fortuitous birth of Moses"—but how can this be done? Is not birth outside the realm of a person’s control? In examining the manner in which St. Gregory exposes "birth" as the constant making of choices by the free human creature, we discover the rich manner in which the saint finds spiritual significance in the historical moments of Scripture.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Gregory of Nyssa on Emulating the Fortuitous Birth of MosesIn the first sections of the second book of his Life of Moses, St. Gregory of Nyssa instructs that Christians are to "emulate the fortuitous birth of Moses"—but how can this be done? Is not birth outside the realm of a person's control? In examining the manner in which St. Gregory exposes "birth" as the constant making of choices by the free human creature, we discover the rich manner in which the saint finds spiritual significance in the historical moments of Scripture.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Cyprian on the Community of the Lord's PrayerWhat is implied in the "our" of the "Our Father"? In this week's episode, Fr. Matthew examines two passages from St Cyprian's treatise on the Lord's Prayer, which focus on questions of unity and community in the Son of God. Do we live this communion in our own life of prayer?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Heritage of St. Paul in Orthodox Spirituality - Part 2This week we broadcast the second half of our lecture on the heritage of St Paul in Orthodoxy, given recently in Manchester, UK, to a largely non-Orthodox audience. In this portion, Archimandrite Irenei focuses on St. Paul’s injunction to "pray without ceasing," and explores the manner in which this is lived out in the Prayer of the Heart and experiential life of Orthodox Christianity throughout history.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Heritage of St. Paul in Orthodox Spirituality - Part 1In this first half of a lecture recorded live in commemoration of the "Pauline Year," celebrating 2,000 years since the birth of the Apostle, Archimandrite Irenei explores the heritage of the great missionary saint in Orthodoxy. Drawing connections to Elder Joseph the Hesychast of Mount Athos, St Symeon the New Theologian, and other great figures of the Orthodox tradition, this first portion of the lecture addresses questions of conversion and relationship, and how St Paul’s example is at the heart of living Orthodox Tradition.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe “Wonderful and Confessedly Striking” Christian Manner of LifeExamining a passage from the anonymous second-century Epistle to Diognetus, Archimandrite Irenei explores the witness borne by the early Christian community and asks: does it reflect our Christian testimony today?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Anthony of Egypt on Sobriety of the HeartTurning once again to the testimony of St Anthony the Great, this week’s broadcast examines an incident in the great Father’s life in which the true heights of sobriety of heart are witnessed. Might this feed us in our own moments of struggle in the spiritual life?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Clement of Rome on Living a God-Pleasing LifeAre there practical measures at hand to help the Christian turn from the passions and live a God-pleasing life? In this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei examines a brief passage by St Clement on practical steps toward living in holiness.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSinging Hymns at the Open TombIn this broadcast, Fr Matthew looks at the "Evlogitaria" and Psalm 118, and considers the Church's moving reflection on the Myrrh-bearing women discovering the empty tomb. If you enjoy the music that is part of this episode, please consider supporting the choir by purchasing a copy of their newest CD, Chrysostom, by clicking here.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Fathers on Holy PaschaCelebrating the Holy Resurrection of Christ, our broadcast this Bright Monday looks at the writings of various Holy Fathers on the bright feast of Pascha and its meaning to Christian life.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersAbba Dorotheos on the Sunday of PalmsIn this broadcast—recorded "on the road"—we examine a brief word by Abba Dorotheos of Gaza on the spiritual symbolism of Christ's entry into Jerusalem.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Mary of Egypt and the Grace of the Holy MysteriesDuring this week of Great Lent, wherein the Church reads the Life of St. Mary of Egypt, we explore a section of that text which reveals the relationship between "mystical theology" in ascetical life, to the grace of the Holy Mysteries in the Church. We are prompted to ask ourselves: Do I lose sight of the chalice in my desire to find Christ?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. John of Sinai on Sorrow that Produces JoyIn this week’s broadcast, Archimandrite Irenei examines several sections from St John’s Ladder to Paradise, read throughout Great Lent and particularly remembered in this Fifth Week, dealing especially with the paradoxes of spiritual life and the mystery of a "joy-creating sorrow."2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt. Symeon the New Theologian on the “Impossible Beauty” of the Life in ChristIn this fourth week of the Great Fast, when the Church commemorates the universal adoration of the precious Cross, our broadcast looks at an important passage by St Symeon the New Theologian, on being joined to the suffering Christ and so attaining the "impossible beauty" of His glory. We ask with the saint: how shall we approach such glory?2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt Isaac of Syria on the Approach to Spiritual WisdomHow does one attain spiritual wisdom? This week offers reflections grounded in the sayings of St Isaac of Syria, on wisdom approached through humility, prayer in the scriptures, and love of neighbor.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Feast of the Incarnation: The Fathers on the Nativity of ChristIn our broadcast for the Feast of the Nativity, we hear the words of the Fathers and the liturgical hymns of the Church on the mystery that brings the Son humanly into the world for the life and redemption of His creature.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersIf You Would, You Could Become All FlameThree "Sayings from the Desert Fathers," two by Abba Elias and one by Abba Joseph, reveal the way of freedom in the spiritual life, and the truly transfiguring nature of authentic prayer.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersA Forest Climb for St Athanasius and the Three MonksRecorded during a forest walk, this week's broadcast considers a traditional saying regarding St. Athanasius' encounter with three monks on an island, and the relationship between doctrine and transfiguration.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersThe Theological Poetry of St. Gregory the TheologianReflections on the poems of St Gregory of Nazianzus, including his poems for morning and evening, of sin and of redemption; with a comparison to the hopeful proclamation of the funeral songs of the Church.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt Jacob of Serug: The Theotokos and the ArchangelThis week, we consider the testimony of St Jacob on the dialogue between the Mother of God and the Archangel Gabriel, as he draws a parallel and contrast to the dialogue between Eve and the serpent in Eden.2014-05-1300 minA Word from the Holy FathersSt Irenaeus on a Christ “of every age”Beginning a new series of broadcasts reflecting on the writings of the Church Fathers, this opening segment explores St Irenaeus of Lyons' famous consideration of Christ "passing through every age" of human life.2014-05-1300 minThe ArenaSoul-Shaking Questions with Archimandrite Irenei (Steenberg)Learn more about Patristic Nectar Publications.2014-02-2624 minThe ArenaOrthodox Theology in America Today with Archimandrite Irenei (Steenberg)We are pleased to offer the following interview with Archimandrite Irenei (Steenberg) entitled "Orthodox Theology in America Today." Father Irenei is the pastor of the St. Tikhon Church (ROCOR) in San Francisco, an internationally recognized scholar of patristics, former head of the Dept. of Theology at the University of Leeds (UK), founder and director of the patristics site http://www.monachos.net, prolific author, and director of the Ss. Cyril and Athanasius Orthodox Institute.2013-01-3035 minThe ArenaChristians in a Falling WorldGuest speaker Hieromonk Irenei Steenberg discusses the struggle to live the Apostolic life in the modern day. Learn more about Patristic Nectar Publications.2012-12-1142 min