Shows
Ancient Faith TodayRemembering Fr. Thomas HopkoIn this touching two-hour remembrance, Kevin Allen welcomes three friends who knew Fr. Thomas Hopko as a friend, a colleague, and a priest. You'll also hear tributes from his listeners from all around the world. Our thanks to Dr. Al Rossi, Dr. Peter Bouteneff, and Mother Christophora for sharing on the program.2021-11-0900 min
The Illumined Heart138: Church Scandals and the CanonsFr. Alexander Rentel, Orthodox canonist and Assistant Professor of Canon Law and Byzantine Studies at St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological seminary, speaks with Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen about scandals in church history, the role the canons play, and what laity can do about their resolution.2017-12-2100 minThe Illumined Heart130: Death to the World, At Cornerstone Festival 2009The Death To The World crew reports back on their week at Cornerstone 2009 - the largest Christian rock festival in the world. This is the third year DTTW has set up shop in the exhibitors area as an Orthodox outreach at this largely Evangelical youth gathering. John Valadez, Gary Allen and Julia Gatalskaya report to host Kevin Allen that the 'times they are a' changing' in the world of contemporary Christian youth, reflecting a broader trend towards ancient faith!2017-12-2000 minThe Illumined Heart98: The Legacy of St Paul and the Church - Part 1Fr. Ted Stlylianapolous (PhD), professor emeritus at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Theological Seminary, St Paul scholar and author, speaks with host Kevin Allen about justification, sanctification, the sacraments and new perrspectives on St Paul. Kevin says this is one of his best interviews because it tackles the major issues which divide the patristic and Protestant understandings of the foremost expositor of the Christian faith.2017-12-2000 minThe Illumined Heart97: Speaking of Sola ScripturaFr. John Whiteford and host Kevin Allen speak about one of American Christianity's defining doctrines—Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone)—and why it is a flawed and non-biblical notion.2017-12-2000 minThe Illumined Heart96: The Culture War and Orthodox ChristianityFr. Hans Jacobse, editor of Orthodoxy Today and President of The American Orthodox Institute speaks with host Kevin Allen about whether Eastern Orthodox Christians need to engage in the moral and social war that is being waged in our culture. They will also talk about whether "Religious Right" leaning ex-Evangelical converts are taking over the Orthodox churches in America! Buckle your seat belts!2017-12-2000 minThe Illumined Heart90: The Family as the “Little Church”Explore with Kevin Allen and his guest, Father Nicolas Speier, why Saint John Chrysostom calls the family "the little church" and what the true vocation of the Orthodox family is.2017-12-2000 minAncient Faith TodaySurviving College as an Orthodox ChristianIn America Christianity is losing its youth, especially when they enter college and university. This is the case across all Christian faith traditions. Two recent studies conducted by both the Barna Group and USA Today found that nearly 75 percent of Christian young people fall away from the faith between the ages of 18 and 22. In this program, host Kevin Allen discusses with his guest Emma Solak, an Orthodox Christian university student and active member of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship—a pan-Orthodox Christian campus ministry—he challenges today’s Christian students face in college and our increasingly secular culture, and ways to stay s...2016-01-3100 minAncient Faith TodaySteps to TransformationIn this first episode of 2016, host Kevin Allen speaks with Archimandrite and Abbot Sergius of the Monastery of Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk, the oldest Orthodox monastery in the U.S., about practical ways Christians can cooperate with the grace of God to "...be transformed ..." (Rom. 12:2) into the Likeness of Christ. Abbot Sergius is the author of the book "Acquiring the Mind of Christ: Embracing the Vision of the Orthodox Church" (St Tikhon Seminary Press). Father Sergius is the 16th Abbot of Saint Tikhon’s Monastery and Lecturer of Orthodox Spirituality at Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary.2016-01-3000 minAncient Faith TodayAn Orthodox Christian Leads the Fight Against Human TraffickingOne of the great evils of all times is slavery and in this time human trafficking. Unknown to many an Antiochian Orthodox Christian has dedicated his life to educating the public and ending this evil practice. In this episode host Kevin Allen speaks about human trafficking with Tony Nassif Jr, the President of the Cedars Cultural and Educational Foundation. He also produces national Preventing Abuse Conferences which focuses on preventing human trafficking and child abduction.2016-01-3000 minAncient Faith TodayWe Wish You an Ascetic Christmas! Understanding the Ascetic Struggle in OrthodoxyFor most people in our society the Christmas season is a time of celebration, with holiday parties, and unleashed consumerism. For Orthodox Christians however the Advent Season is a time of fasting, prayer and ascetic struggle. Why? In this edition of Ancient Faith Today, host Kevin Allen discusses with Father Gregory Jensen, author of the book The Cure for Consumerism, the reason for the ascetic struggle for Orthodox Christians.2015-12-0100 minAncient Faith TodayConsidering the “Benedict Option” with Rod DreherMany Orthodox Christians are wondering how to live and raise their families in an increasingly secularized and anti-Christian culture in the U.S. and Western Europe where many believe Christianity has lost the "culture wars." In this episode of Ancient Faith Today, host Kevin Allen speaks with author and journalist Rod Dreher, of The American Conservative, about what he calls "The Benedict Option."2015-11-0800 minThe Illumined Heart87: ‘Turning Around' An Orthodox ParishIn this edition Kevin Allen speaks with priest, missionary, author and an adjunct lecturer at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology and Hellenic College, Fr Luke Veronis, about the challenges he faced when he came home from the mission field to take over a moribund Orthodox parish that had a revolving door of former priests. This is an inspiring and instructive story that will be an encouragement to all!2015-10-2700 minAncient Faith TodayIs Orthodoxy in Decline?Alarming statistics are reported on the decline of Christianity (-8% in seven years) across all denominations in the U.S.; as well as significant data on the Orthodox Church in the U.S. Be the Bee's Steven Christoforou, Director of the GOA Youth and Adult Ministries Department, and the Office of Camping Ministries; also Fr. Jonathan Ivanoff, the director of the Orthodox Natural Church Development program, join Kevin Allen to discuss.2015-08-2700 minAncient Faith TodayRock and Sand - Orthodoxy and Reformed Theology - Part 2In part 2 of his interview with Fr. Josiah Trenham, Kevin Allen gets specific on some of the modern day expressions of Reformed teaching and how it differs from the Orthodox Church. Fr. Josiah authored the book Rock and Sand: An Orthodox Appraisal of the Protestant Reformers and Their Theology. Click here to view the video version of this interview.2015-08-0300 minAncient Faith TodayRock and Sand - Orthodoxy and Reformed TheologyWe welcome back Kevin Allen to AFR with his inaugural come back podcast which is part 1 of an interview with Fr. Josiah Trenham. They discuss his new book Rock and Sand - An Orthodox Appraisal of the Protestant Reformers and their Teaching, published by New Rome Press. This interview is also available in video format from Patristic Nectar Films.2015-08-0300 minAncient Faith TodayEarly Lutheran/Orthodox Dialog After The ReformationMost Christians are not aware that in the latter part of the 16th century, early Lutheran Reformers - close colleagues and followers of Martin Luther - set in motion an eight year contact and correspondence with the (then) Ecumenical Patriarch, Jeremias II of Constantinople. The outcome might have changed the course of Christian history. Kevin Allen speaks with scholar Dr Paraskeve (Eve) Tibbs about this fascinating and largely unknown chapter in post-Reformation history.2015-02-0400 minThe Illumined HeartFr. Peter Gillquist on Missions and EvangelismKevin Allen talks with Fr. Peter Gillquist about the status of Orthodox Evangelism and the Church in America.2014-09-1800 minAncient Faith TodayScripture and TraditionKevin Allen speaks with the William F. Orr Professor of New Testament at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, Dr Edith M. Humphrey, on the relationship between the oral and written traditions of the Bible and how the various Christian faith traditions have made a relatively modern dichotomy between Scripture and Holy Tradition.2014-06-1400 minAncient Faith TodayMaking Orthodoxy Plausible for the Non-OrthodoxFr. Wilbur Ellsworth discusses with host Kevin Allen the challenges and opportunities of presenting Orthodoxy as plausible to non-Orthodox visitors and inquirers. Fr. Wilbur is a former Baptist pastor of a large influential church in Wheaton, IL, but now a priest in the Orthodox Church.2014-06-1300 minAncient Faith TodayThe Pope and the PatriarchKevin Allen and his guests discuss the joint statements made in Jerusalem by Pope Francis I and Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I and their potential impact on Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox relations. Kevin is joined by Fr. Matthew Baker (Greek Archdiocese of America) and Fr. John Whiteford (Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia).2014-06-1300 minAncient Faith TodayOrthodoxy and the EnvironmentKevin Allen talks with guest Father Michael Butler about how we might address the environmental issues that confront us today by appealing to the authentic Orthodox Tradition. Fr. Michael is the co-author of Creation and the Heart of Man.2014-05-3000 minAncient Faith TodayRaising Godly ChildrenElissa D. Bjeletich, author of In God's Hands - A Mother's Journey Through Her Infant's Critical Illness as well as the AFR podcast Raising Saints, and Elizabeth White, author of Following A Sacred Path - Raising Godly Children, join host Kevin Allen to discuss how to develop the spiritual nature of children and raise them to love and experience God.2014-04-2400 minAncient Faith TodayTribute to Metropolitan PhilipIn a touching and emotional special edition of Ancient Faith Today, Kevin Allen welcomed the Vicar General of the Antiochian Archdiocese Fr. Thomas Zain as well as former EOC (Evangelical Orthodox Church) Bishop Fr. Wayne Wilson to discuss the life and legacy of Metropolitan Philip Saliba. The program also included listener calls and a tribute from Fr. Jon Braun.2014-04-2400 minThe Illumined Heart157: The Spiritual Guide in Eastern OrthodoxyHost Kevin Allen speaks with Father Steven Tschlis about the role of the spiritual guide - father or mother - in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, and how such a guide may differ from one's parish priest or sacramental confessor. Should we look for a "spiritual father or mother" in a monastery? What role does the parish priest play? These and other questions will be addressed in this conversation.2014-04-2400 minAncient Faith TodayMormonism and Orthodox ChristianityChris Ionna Holland, an ex-Evangelical who was drawn to Mormonism as a teenager and (later) returned to her traditional Christian roots before becoming an Orthodox Christian (and taught how to evangelize Mormons), and Andrew Gusty (M.D.), a cradle Mormon, Temple worthy, an LDS High Priest, and Second Counselor to the Bishop, discuss their unique perspectives with Kevin Allen about Mormon theology, doctrines, and practices, as well as why they left the Mormon faith and became Eastern Orthodox Christians.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayAngels: Our Heavenly Guides and GuardiansGuest: Joel Miller, author of the recently published Lifted by Angels: The Presence and Power of Our Heavenly Guides and Guardians discusses with Kevin Allen and the callers the reality and role of angels within the Christian salvation context.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayTalking To Your Children About SexOne of the most challenging and important jobs a parent has is to talk to their children about sexuality in a way that incorporates the various spheres of life – biological, emotional, relational, social, and spiritual. In this episode of Ancient Faith Today, host Kevin Allen speaks with Dr. John T. Chirban, author of How to Talk With Your Kids About Sex, about ways to prepare for this most important parental responsibility.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayPerspectives on the Church FathersIn this two-hour edition, host Kevin Allen speaks with two early Church scholars—Reformed Christian James R. Payton, Jr. (editor of the newly published A Patristic Treasury: Early Church Wisdom for Today) and Orthodox Christian Bradley Nassif (a leading expert on the relationship between Orthodox and Evangelical Christians)—about the Church Fathers, including who they are, what they taught, and their significance in the Evangelical and Orthodox church traditions.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayChristian Persecution: A Conspiracy of SilenceHost Kevin Allen talks with Faith McDonnell and Ralph H. Sidway about the rising tide of Christian intolerance and genocide—the intentional killing of people for their Christian faith—and why global Christophobia is rarely covered by Western media or addressed by the United Nations. Faith McDonnell is the Director of Religious Liberty Programs at the Institute for Religion and Democracy and the author of the book Girl Soldier: A Story of Hope for Northern Uganda's Children. Her blog is titled "Juicy Ecumenism." Ralph H. Sidway is the author of Facing Islam and the blog of the same name.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayWhen Faith WaversKevin Allen's guest is Fr. Barnabas Powell, a former Pentecostal pastor and now an Orthodox priest. On this show, they take questions on doubts and struggles in our faith. What do we do when our faith wavers?2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayA Christian in EgyptAncient Faith Radio presents a special edition of Ancient Faith Today with Kevin Allen – A Christian in Egypt. Kevin interviews a Coptic Christian in Cairo by telephone to get a first hand report on what has been happening in this troubled country over the last several days and weeks. For his own safety, we use only his first name.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayCrisis of BeautyKevin Allen's guest is Fr. Stephen Freeman, the pastor of St. Anne Orthodox Church in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, and the host of the "Glory to God" podcast. They discuss the idea of "beauty" and its lack in our secularized culture, as well as how to live a sacred life in a secular culture.2014-03-1500 minAncient Faith TodayPapacy, Primacy, and OrthodoxyFr Laurent Cleenewerck, author of His Broken Body: Understanding and Healing the Schism between the Roman Catholic and Orthodox Churches and the editor of the Eastern Orthodox Bible (EOB), discusses with host Kevin Allen papacy, primacy, and church as they are differently understood in both Catholicism and Orthodoxy.2014-03-1500 minThe Illumined Heart160: Catechizing New Age and Eastern Religion SeekersIn this episode, the microphone is turned as AFR General Manager and founder John Maddex interviews host Kevin Allen on the catechism module he developed (with his priest's blessing) specifically for inquirers coming from New Age and Eastern spiritual backgrounds. Is the entrance of New Age and Eastern seekers perhaps a trend the Church needs to prepare for? Are the issues, concerns, and paradigms of these seekers the same as those inquiring from Evangelical backgrounds? Must the catechist know something about New Age and Eastern religions in order to catechize effectively? These are some of the questions that will be...2014-01-2700 minThe Illumined Heart168 - Eastern Catholics - Are They “Orthodox”?There are over 20 ancient Eastern Christian churches in communion with the Pope of Rome whose liturgies and "ethos" are more "Orthodox" than their Latin-Rite brothers. Some of them claim to be "Orthodox in communion with Rome". Some Orthodox disagree, calling them (pejoratively) "Uniates" or Eastern Rite Catholics, who have made significant compromises to come into such communion. In this episode host Kevin Allen speaks with Melkite (Eastern Catholic) priest Father James Babcock about the similarities and differences between Eastern Orthodox, Eastern Catholics and the Roman Catholic Church.2011-04-0100 min
The Illumined Heart168 - Eastern Catholics - Are They “Orthodox”?There are over 20 ancient Eastern Christian churches in communion with the Pope of Rome whose liturgies and "ethos" are more "Orthodox" than their Latin-Rite brothers. Some of them claim to be "Orthodox in communion with Rome". Some Orthodox disagree, calling them (pejoratively) "Uniates" or Eastern Rite Catholics, who have made significant compromises to come into such communion. In this episode host Kevin Allen speaks with Melkite (Eastern Catholic) priest Father James Babcock about the similarities and differences between Eastern Orthodox, Eastern Catholics and the Roman Catholic Church.
2011-04-0140 minThe Illumined Heart166 - Food and FaithAs Great Lent begins, Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen and nutrition expert Rita Madden (MPH and RD) discuss the role of food in our Orthodox spiritual life, what the Church Fathers say about food and food quantity, and practical nutritional issues related to fasting. Can we get the protein we need from a plant-based diet? Do we need supplements? Should children fast? These and many other questions - from an Orthodox patristic perspective and Rita's expertise -are the focus of this important conversation.
Be watching for Rita's new podcast on AFR about Food and Faith coming soon!!
2011-03-0444 minThe Illumined Heart165: Metropolitan Kallistos Ware On the RecordIn a very special edition of The Illumined Heart, we have an extensive conversation with His Eminence Metropolitan Kallistos Ware, Professor Emeritus in Eastern Orthodox Studies at Oxford University, and Bishop of Diokleia. Metropolitan Ka!istos is widely regarded as perhaps the world’s leading theologian of the Eastern Orthodox Church today. We present the entire interview here but also offer it in bite size pieces below. Kevin Allen's guest host is John Maddex.
2011-02-251h 22The Illumined Heart163: Yoga and Orthodox Christianity: Are They Compatible?Dr. Christine Mangala was raised in India and brought up a devout Hindu. Her family was close to one of India's leading Hindu gurus and teachers. Now an Orthodox Christian writer and teacher, she and Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen speak about whether various aspects of Hindu Yoga are compatible with Christian faith and practice, or whether Yoga should be shunned entirely.
2011-02-0446 minThe Illumined Heart162: The Quiet CradleAre converts to Orthodox Christianity dominating the media with their "journey stories" and "fast-paced, high-energy" perspectives, while the more quiet, perhaps lumbering, but deeply-rooted faith of cradle-born Orthodox is obscured in the process? Are traditions and customs being introduced by some convert clergy and laity that feel new and even strange to those with deep Orthodox roots? Is there a growing "cradle - convert gap" in the Orthodox Church in North America? Cradle Orthodox blogger, and writer Janice Bidwell expresses her concerns in this conversation with host Kevin Allen.
2011-01-2139 minThe Illumined Heart161: Interfaith Dialogue: Co-Exist or Convert?Fr. Alexander Goussetis, priest, comparative religion professor, and interfaith dialogue participant and advocate, speaks with host Kevin Allen about his views on the purpose of interfaith dialogue with Jews, Muslims, and other non-Christians. Kevin asks: Does the Gospel call us to merely understand the faiths of non-Christians, to enter into dialogue with them with no agenda, or is the goal always to try to win those we dialogue with to Christ? Is it "Orthodox" to proselytize, or simply to be a holy witness? These and other questions will be addressed in this program.2011-01-1400 minThe Illumined Heart161: Interfaith Dialogue: Co-Exist or Convert?Fr. Alexander Goussetis, priest, comparative religion professor, and interfaith dialogue participant and advocate, speaks with host Kevin Allen about his views on the purpose of interfaith dialogue with Jews, Muslims, and other non-Christians. Kevin asks: Does the Gospel call us to merely understand the faiths of non-Christians, to enter into dialogue with them with no agenda, or is the goal always to try to win those we dialogue with to Christ? Is it "Orthodox" to proselytize, or simply to be a holy witness? These and other questions will be addressed in this program.
2011-01-1433 minThe Illumined Heart146: Can We Really Know God?In this inaugural episode of the new season of The Illumined Heart, Kevin Allen welcomes Father Michael Reagan to discuss a long-standing conversation between the Eastern Church and the Western Church: can we know God directly and what does this mean? The perspective in this conversation is practical, not academic.
In this new season of The Illumined Heart, Kevin will be providing interviews every other week. However next week (Sept 10) he will have part 2 of his interview with Fr. Michael Reagan.2011-01-0500 minThe Illumined Heart154: Metropolitan PHILIP Saliba - On the RecordThe past few years have seen their controversies within the Self Ruled Antiochian Archdiocese of North America. On September 30, 2010, Kevin Allen and John Maddex traveled to Englewood, NJ to visit the headquarters of the Antiochian Archdiocese and the home of it’s Archbishop Metropolitan Philip Saliba. Our purpose was to seek clarification on several key areas that have become a concern to many, and fodder for the blogosphere. His Eminence warmly welcomed us and gave Kevin the freedom to ask any question he thought would be helpful to our audience in understanding several critical issues. There were four specific topics we...2011-01-0500 minThe Illumined Heart156: Orthodox & Evangelical Relations: Where are we?Dr Bradley Nassif, a “pioneer of Orthodox-Evangelical Dialogue” talks with host Kevin Allen about “where things are” formally and informally between The Orthodox Church and Evangelical Christians. Kevin asks the question: “What is an Evangelical?”2011-01-0500 minThe Illumined Heart160: Catechizing New Age and Eastern Religion SeekersIn this episode, the microphone is turned as AFR General Manager and founder John Maddex interviews host Kevin Allen on the catechism module he developed (with his priest's blessing) specifically for inquirers coming from New Age and Eastern spiritual backgrounds. Is the entrance of New Age and Eastern seekers perhaps a trend the Church needs to prepare for? Are the issues, concerns, and paradigms of these seekers the same as those inquiring from Evangelical backgrounds? Must the catechist know something about New Age and Eastern religions in order to catechize effectively? These are some of the questions that will be...2011-01-0141 minThe Illumined Heart159: The Occult: Shining Light on Satan’s Shadow - Part 2Listen to Part 2 of this fascinating concluding conversation between host Kevin Allen and Orthodox priest and occult-specialist, Father George Aquaro.
2010-12-1050 minThe Illumined Heart158: The Occult: Shining Light on Satan’s ShadowIn this two-part series, Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen speaks with Eastern Orthodox priest and occult-specialist Father George Aquaro about the attractions and dangers of the metaphysics and practices of what is called the occult. From seemingly benign astrology to ghost-chasing, and Father George speaks extensively about these practices and what is behind them from the Orthodox Christian perspective. Do ghosts and apparitions exist, or are they necessarily demonic? This and other questions will be addressed in this fascinating two-part series you will not want to miss.
2010-12-0339 minThe Illumined Heart157: The Spiritual Guide in Eastern OrthodoxyHost Kevin Allen speaks with Father Steven Tschlis about the role of the spiritual guide - father or mother - in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, and how such a guide may differ from one's parish priest or sacramental confessor. Should we look for a "spiritual father or mother" in a monastery? What role does the parish priest play? These and other questions will be addressed in this conversation.
2010-11-1931 minThe Illumined Heart156: Orthodox & Evangelical Relations: Where are we?Dr Bradley Nassif, a “pioneer of Orthodox-Evangelical Dialogue” talks with host Kevin Allen about “where things are” formally and informally between The Orthodox Church and Evangelical Christians. Kevin asks the question: “What is an Evangelical?”
2010-11-0642 minThe Illumined Heart154: Metropolitan PHILIP Saliba - On the RecordThe past few years have seen their controversies within the Self Ruled Antiochian Archdiocese of North America. On September 30, 2010, Kevin Allen and John Maddex traveled to Englewood, NJ to visit the headquarters of the Antiochian Archdiocese and the home of it’s Archbishop Metropolitan Philip Saliba. Our purpose was to seek clarification on several key areas that have become a concern to many, and fodder for the blogosphere. His Eminence warmly welcomed us and gave Kevin the freedom to ask any question he thought would be helpful to our audience in understanding several critical issues. There were four specific topics we...2010-10-101h 13The Illumined Heart149: How Many Are WeIllumined Heart host Kevin Allen speaks with the research director of the 2010 US Orthodox Christian Census, Alexei D. Krindatch, about the first definitive census of every Orthodox body in the U.S (including Eastern and Oriental), nationally and by state. Be prepared for some suprises!
2010-10-0833 minThe Illumined HeartFather Seraphim Rose - Spiritual FatherJoin Illumined Heart co-host Kevin Allen on his pilgrimage to Saint Herman of Alaska Monastery, Platina, California to talk with its Abbot Fr. Gerasim and Fr. Seraphim Rose legacy-keeper and biographer Monk Damascene. September 2nd marks the 25th anniversary of the repose of Fr. Seraphim Rose. In part 1 of this 3 part series, Kevin is in the cell constructed by Fr. Seraphim and now occupied by Monk Damascene where he talks with the monk about his spiritual father. For more information about the books published and distributed by the monastery, visit their website.2010-09-1600 minThe Illumined Heart147: Can We Really Know God? - Part 2Host Kevin Allen and Father Michael Reagan continue their conversation about this most important of topics: Knowing God.
Next Illumined Heart: Friday, September 24, 2010
2010-09-1038 minThe Illumined Heart146: Can We Really Know God?In this inaugural episode of the new season of The Illumined Heart, Kevin Allen welcomes Father Michael Reagan to discuss a long-standing conversation between the Eastern Church and the Western Church: can we know God directly and what does this mean? The perspective in this conversation is practical, not academic.
In this new season of The Illumined Heart, Kevin will be providing interviews every other week. However next week (Sept 10) he will have part 2 of his interview with Fr. Michael Reagan.
2010-09-0340 minThe Illumined Heart144: The Animal Rights Movement from an Orthodox PerspectiveHuman exceptionalism advocate and author Wesley J. Smith speaks with host Kevin Allen about the animal rights-animal liberation movement and its insistence on the "moral equivalence" between animals and humans! How does this compare with Orthodox teachings about the "brotherhood" of humans, animals and inanimate nature (St Gregory Palamas)? Listen and find out !
2010-03-1333 minThe Illumined Heart142: Mystery and Sacramentality: East and WestWhat began as a conversation with Fuller Theological Seminary professor Dr. Paraskeve (Eve) Tibbs over coffee, becomes an interview on the essential differences between the ways the Christian East and West understand the fundamentals of the faith, worship, and sacraments. A great introduction to East-West Christian distinctives on this encore presentation of The Illumined Heart with Kevin Allen!
2009-11-2336 minThe Illumined Heart138: Church Scandals and the CanonsFr. Alexander Rentel, Orthodox canonist and Assistant Professor of Canon Law and Byzantine Studies at St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological seminary, speaks with Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen about scandals in church history, the role the canons play, and what laity can do about their resolution.
2009-10-1637 minThe Illumined Heart137: Turn, Turn, TurnChris Hillman, Rock And Roll Hall Of Famer and original member of the legendary sixties band The Byrds, The Flying Burrito Brothers, and The Desert Rose Band, reminisces with Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen about his 40 years in the music business and the spiritual journey that led him to the Greek Orthodox Church.
2009-10-0941 minThe Illumined Heart135: Baptist Missionary Confronts Long-held Evangelical Tenets - Part 1In this two-part interview, ex-Baptist seminary graduate and missionary to Bosnia, now Orthodox priest, Fr James Early, recounts with Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen the circumstances under which he had to face and eventually reject core Baptist-Evangelical tenets and come to accept the faith handed down once and for all to the Saints. His book is called From Baptist to Byzantium.
2009-10-0232 minThe Illumined Heart130: Death to the World, At Cornerstone Festival 2009The Death To The World crew reports back on their week at Cornerstone 2009 - the largest Christian rock festival in the world. This is the third year DTTW has set up shop in the exhibitors area as an Orthodox outreach at this largely Evangelical youth gathering. John Valadez, Gary Allen and Julia Gatalskaya report to host Kevin Allen that the 'times they are a' changing' in the world of contemporary Christian youth, reflecting a broader trend towards ancient faith!
2009-07-1726 minThe Illumined Heart128: My Days with St. John the Wonderworker - Part 6Kevin Allen and Subdeacon Gregory Hendry conclude their intimate look at Saint John Maximovitch, wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco.
2009-07-0818 minThe Illumined Heart126: My Days with St. John the Wonderworker - Part 4Continuing their six-part discussion on the inspiring life of American Saint John of San Francisco, host Kevin Allen and Subdeacon Gregory Hendry discuss his homilies.
2009-07-0621 minThe Illumined Heart125: My Days with St. John the Wonderworker - Part 3Commemorating the 43rd anniversary of his repose, Subdeacon Gregory Hendry and Kevin Allen continue their six-part series on St. John Maximovitch of Shanghai and San Francisco.
2009-07-0527 minThe Illumined Heart124: My Days with St. John the Wonderworker - Part 2Subdeacon Gregory Hendry continues his recollections of Vladyka, Saint John Maximovitch in the second of a six-part series with host Kevin Allen.
2009-07-0427 minThe Illumined Heart123: My Days with St. John the Wonderworker - Part 1Share personal recollections of life and liturgy with Saint John Maximovitch - one of Orthodoxy's greatest contemporary saints - with one who knew him, in this special six-part series of The Illumined Heart with host Kevin Allen and ROCOR Subdeacon Gregory Hendry. This series commemorates the 43rd anniversary of St John's repose.
2009-07-0340 minThe Illumined Heart121: Insanity or Demonic Possession?After years of questions from concerned friends and loved ones about whether someone suffered from insanity or demonic posession (and how to discern the difference between the two), the sisters of St Barbara Monastery (OCA; Santa Paula, CA) turned to the patristic Church Fathers for answers. In this episode of The Illumined Heart, Mother Melania (Salem) tells host Kevin Allen what they discovered.
2009-06-1933 minThe Illumined Heart120: Pascha in Cyprus - An American Convert’s ExperienceJake Lee, podcaster of Generation Orthodox and Journeys to Orthodoxy (OCN), spent Holy Week and Bright Week with his wife and baby daughter (and Mom) in a small village in Cyprus to experience Paschal life in an Orthodox culture, steeped in Orthodox history and tradition. He and Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen talk about the experience and what he learned.
2009-06-1239 minThe Illumined Heart119: Why Doesn’t God Answer My Prayer?This is one of the most perplexing questions for all Christians. In this episode of The Illumined Heart, host Kevin Allen engages author and theologian Dr. Jerry Sittser, author of the book "When God Doesn't Answer Your Prayer", in an honest conversation about this often ignored question. His answers are not academic or simply formulaic and come from the deep and hard places.
2009-06-0540 minThe Illumined Heart114: The American Orthodox Church at a CrossroadsIn June 2009 leaders of all autocephalous Orthodox Churches - excluding the OCA or any representatives from North America - meet in Cyprus or Geneva (undetermined at the date of this posting), at a meeting convened by the
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholemew I. This meeting is being called to discuss "the so-called Orthodox Diaspora, with a view to overcoming every possible influence that is foreign to Orthodox ecclesiology." The American Orthodox
situation and its disunity is at the top of the agenda. In this edition of The Illumined Heart, host Kevin Allen and author George C. Michalopulos discuss this meeting, the history...2009-05-0834 minThe Illumined Heart113: American Parish Builds Orthodox Church In TanzaniaJoin host Kevin Allen as he speaks with Rev. Fr Steven Tsichlis, pastor of St. Paul's Greek Orthodox Church, Irvine, CA, and parishioner Alex Gorbenko about their parish's commitment to build a church (and more) in a small rural village called Kobunshwi in Tanzania, Africa.
2009-05-0129 minThe Illumined Heart108: Reflections on the Vocation of a Wife and MotherMolly Sabourin, wife, mother and writer discusses her new book, Close To Home, with Illumined Heart host Kevin Allen. They talk about the craft of writing, how a mother of four found time to complete a book, and how Molly has learned to integrate all of the many jobs of a wife and mother without burning out, or forgetting "the most needful thing" - life in Christ!
2009-03-2739 minThe Illumined Heart102: From Eastern and New Age Metaphysics to Orthodox Christianity - Part 1Veronica Hughes was a 20-year seeker, practitioner and teacher of hatha yoga, EST, Hinduism, occult, metaphysics, psychic healing, out of body travel, spirit channeling, Tibetan Buddhism and Theosophy before re-discovering her childhood faith in Christ in the Orthodox Church. She and host Kevin Allen discuss her search for personal transformation and what led her to eastern Christianity. Veronica chronicles her experience in the book The Pearl of Great Price.
2009-02-2028 minThe Illumined Heart101: C.S. Lewis and OrthodoxyEveryone in Christendom claims noted Christian author C.S. Lewis as one of their own! Met. Kallistos Ware calls him an "anonymous Orthodox". In this edition of the Illumined Heart, C.S. Lewis scholar Chris Jensen and Kevin Allen examine key beliefs of C.S. Lewis and find that he is far more patristic in ethos and praxis than he is a "mere" Christian! (Click here to read Chris Jensen's article on Lewis.)
2009-02-1333 minThe Illumined Heart100: Indian And OrthodoxIn this edition, host Kevin Allen speaks with Tenny Thomas, a doctoral student at Columbia/Union Theological Seminary, and member of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, also known as the Indian Orthodox Church, about the Indian Christian community and how Indian Orthodox Christians relate to and evangelize in their predominantly Hindu society.
2009-02-0642 minThe Illumined Heart98: The Legacy of St Paul and the Church - Part 1Fr. Ted Stlylianapolous (PhD), professor emeritus at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Theological Seminary, St Paul scholar and author, speaks with host Kevin Allen about justification, sanctification, the sacraments and new perrspectives on St Paul. Kevin says this is one of his best interviews because it tackles the major issues which divide the patristic and Protestant understandings of the foremost expositor of the Christian faith.
2009-01-2330 minThe Illumined Heart97: Speaking of Sola ScripturaFr. John Whiteford and host Kevin Allen speak about one of American Christianity's defining doctrines—Sola Scriptura (Scripture Alone)—and why it is a flawed and non-biblical notion.
2009-01-1640 minThe Illumined Heart96: The Culture War and Orthodox ChristianityFr. Hans Jacobse, editor of Orthodoxy Today and President of The American Orthodox Institute speaks with host Kevin Allen about whether Eastern Orthodox Christians need to engage in the moral and social war that is being waged in our culture. They will also talk about whether "Religious Right" leaning ex-Evangelical converts are taking over the Orthodox churches in America! Buckle your seat belts!
2009-01-0934 minThe Illumined Heart94: Meet Metropolitan Jonah!On November 12, 2008, a remarkable thing happened in Pittsburgh, PA. Just 11 days after his consecration as Bishop of Fort Worth and Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of the South, Bishop Jonah was elected Archbishop of Washington and New York and Metropolitan of All American and Canada for the Orthodox Church in America. Kevin Allen was able to spend well over an hour on the phone with His Beatitude Jonah in a candid and fascinating interview that we are bringing you in 2 parts. In this first part we learn about his background, personal interests, conversion to Orthodoxy and the monastic life. Next...2008-12-2628 minThe Illumined Heart90: The Family as the “Little Church”Explore with Kevin Allen and his guest, Father Nicolas Speier, why Saint John Chrysostom calls the family "the little church" and what the true vocation of the Orthodox family is.
2008-11-2834 minThe Illumined Heart87: ‘Turning Around’ An Orthodox ParishIn this edition Kevin Allen speaks with priest, missionary, author and an adjunct lecturer at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology and Hellenic College, Fr Luke Veronis, about the challenges he faced when he came home from the mission field to take over a moribund Orthodox parish that had a revolving door of former priests. This is an inspiring and instructive story that will be an encouragement to all!
2008-11-0743 minThe Illumined HeartMy Journey From Hare Krishna to Christ - Part OneHear the fascinating story of Patrick Lansdowne, a 7-year Hare Krishna Temple devotee, about his journey to Christ and the Orthodox Church. In Part One of the interview, Patrick and host Kevin Allen discuss the Hare Krishna sect's unique metaphysics and practices (within Hindusim) and how and why Patrick adopted them! Do any of them "prefigure" Christ?
2008-09-2033 minThe Illumined HeartIllumined Heart Christmas SpecialKevin Allen talks with Fr. Tom Hopko about the significance of the incarnation.
2007-12-2533 minThe Illumined Heart‘Classic Evangelical’ Discovers Ancient FaithJoin host Kevin Allen in his interview with Ancient Faith Radio founder and Chief Operating Officer of Conciliar Media Ministries, John Maddex, about his fascinating journey to the ancient faith of Orthodoxy after 30 years as a evangelical radio executive and self-professed "classic Evangelical Protestant Christian"!
2007-11-0353 minThe Illumined HeartThe New Orthodox Faithful: Why Evangelical Christian University Graduates Are Becoming OrthodoxThe Orthodox Church is seeing an influx of graduates from Evangelical Christian colleges and universities, exploring traditional forms of historic Christianity. In this program Kevin Allen discusses this trend with two graduates of BIOLA University (Jesse Cone and Michael Unruh) who were recently chrismated.
2007-10-1335 minThe Illumined HeartSt John Chrysostom in the 21st CenturyThe 1600Th anniversary of the repose of Saint John Chrysostom - one of Orthodoxy's most venerated church fathers, theologians, moralists, and liturgists - was September 14Th. To commemorate the special occasion, Illumined Heart co-host Kevin Allen spoke with Chrysostom scholar and pastor of Saint Andrew Orthodox Church, Riverside, California, Father Josiah Trenham, about the venerated Saint's enduring legacy.
2007-09-241h 00The Illumined HeartFr. Seraphim Rose - Prayer and Orthodox SpiritualityIn the conclusion of our 3 part series commemorating the 25TH anniversary of the repose of Fr Seraphim (Rose), Kevin Allen is seated on a wooden bench overlooking a panoranmic view of Mt. Yolla Bolly with the Abbot of St. Herman of Alaska Monastery, Fr. Gerasim. Listen for valuable lessons (as well as birds chirping!) on the spiritual disciplines of prayer and fasting from a spiritual child of this venerated American monk and writer.
2007-09-0200 minThe Illumined HeartFr. Seraphim Rose - The Man, The StrugglerEnter once again into the rustic cell of Fr. Seraphim Rose with Kevin Allen as he talks with Fr. Damascene, the biographer and spiritual child of Fr. Seraphim. This is part 2 of a 3 part series and provides a unique glimpse into the life of a man who many say will someday be venerated as a Saint.
2007-09-0147 minThe Illumined HeartFather Seraphim Rose - Spiritual FatherJoin Illumined Heart co-host Kevin Allen on his pilgrimage to Saint Herman of Alaska Monastery, Platina, California to talk with its Abbot Fr. Gerasim and Fr. Seraphim Rose legacy-keeper and biographer Monk Damascene. September 2nd marks the 25th anniversary of the repose of Fr. Seraphim Rose. In part 1 of this 3 part series, Kevin is in the cell constructed by Fr. Seraphim and now occupied by Monk Damascene where he talks with the monk about his spiritual father. For more information about the books published and distributed by the monastery, visit their website.
2007-08-3146 minThe Illumined HeartServing Christ in the poor and needy as Orthodox ChristiansKevin Allen interviews Peter Jordan, the son of the founder of Fred Jordan Mission, a major Los Angeles skid row ministry, and a recent convert to the Eastern Orthodox Church.
2007-08-0527 minThe Illumined HeartEastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Relations: Where Does It Go From Here?Fr. Ted Pulcini, ex-Roman Catholic and now Eastern Orthodox priest and long-time Orthodox participant in Orthodox-Catholic ecumenical dialog, discusses the Vatican's recent document on the doctrine on the Church. He and Kevin Allen discuss the timing of its publication, what it really means, what it says about the current and future state of relations between the two oldest branches of Christianity, and what the divisive issues are.
2007-07-2935 minThe Illumined HeartScott Cairns - A Short Trip To The EdgeVisit the "holy mountain" of Mt. Athos, and join in the quest for a spiritual elder with acclaimed poet and author Scot Cairns, who reads selections from his newly-released book and talks with two-time pilgrim to the holy mountain, Kevin Allen!
2007-06-1728 minThe Illumined HeartThe Mountain of Silence—Part TwoKevin Allen continues his fascinating interview with Kyriakos C. Markides, author of The Mountain of Silence, Gifts of the Desert, and many more. Is it possible that Part Two could be better than Part One? You be the judge!
2007-06-1128 minThe Illumined HeartThe Mountain of Silence—Part OneKevin Allen interviews Kyriakos C. Markides, author of The Mountain of Silence and Gifts of the Desert, talks about his life, his books, and his spiritual journey. This interview--you're going to want to listen to over and over...!
2007-06-0430 minThe Illumined HeartFr. Patrick Reardon on Popular MonotheismHere's a hint: It's wrong! Great stuff as Kevin Allen interviews this popular Orthodox priest, a senior editor at Touchstone Magazine.
2007-05-1435 minThe Illumined HeartMichael Whelton on the New AgeKevin Allen interviews Michael Whelton on the characteristics of the New Age movement.
2007-04-2329 minThe Illumined HeartKevin Allen on Finding Christ in a Hindu AshramSteve McMeans interviews his co-host, Kevin Allen, about his experiences as the novice of a Hindu guru, and his journey to Orthodoxy.
2007-04-0928 minThe Illumined HeartKevin Allen on Finding Christ in a Hindu AshramSteve McMeans interviews his co-host, Kevin Allen, about his experiences as the novice of a Hindu guru, and his journey to Orthodoxy.2007-04-0700 minThe Illumined HeartFr. Peter Gillquist on Missions and EvangelismKevin Allen talks with Fr. Peter Gillquist about the status of Orthodox Evangelism and the Church in America.
2007-04-0230 min