Speaking the Truth in Love

A Vision of Unity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:00:36 -0500

Fr. Thomas Hopko gives one Orthodox Christian's understanding of unity.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 17: The Final Chapter

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:38:10 -0500

In this final installment in his Darwin and Christianity series, Fr. Tom Hopko compares the task and method of natural science with the task and method of Christian theology.

Dormition of the Theotokos

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:09:49 -0500

On August 15, the Church celebrates the Dormition of the Mother of God. Fr.Tom explores the theology associated with this Feast and the implications on our own resurrection.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 16: Faith and Knowledge, Reason and Revelation

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 21:45:19 -0500

This is the next to last episode in the Darwin series.

Transfiguration - The Center of the Evangelical Narrative

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 12:56:58 -0500

On August 6, we will celebrate the Transfiguration of our Lord and Fr. Thomas Hopko helps us understand the pivotal nature of this event in Christian history.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 15: Nature and Super-nature

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 12:15:10 -0500

As Fr. Tom gets close to the end of his series on Darwin and Christianity, he reflects on the terms and concepts of nature and super-nature.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 14: Meditation on Miracles

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 17 Jul 2010 22:23:53 -0500

What are some of the misunderstandings and misgivings about miracles and how does that relate to natural science and Christian theology?

Darwin and Christianity - Part 13: God and Creation

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 14:56:56 -0500

Fr. Tom continues his series on Darwin and Christianity with some musings on God and Creation.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 12: The Soul

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 16:03:56 -0500

How do you describe the distinction between human beings and animals? Is it the soul or is it something else altogether?

Darwin and Christianity - Part 11: Death

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 13:02:06 -0500

In this episode on the Darwinian Revolution and the relationship between natural science and Christian theology, Fr. Thomas Hopko reflects on the issue of death.

God As A Consuming Fire

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 21 May 2010 22:52:28 -0500

A meditation on God as a consuming fire and the imagery of fire in the spiritual life. Particularly appropriate as we think about Pentecost.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 10: The Genesis Account (part 4)

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 12 May 2010 13:58:45 -0500

Part 4 of the teachings from Genesis as a section in the larger series on Darwin and Christianity.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 9: The Genesis Account (part 3)

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 04 May 2010 12:11:31 -0500

Part 3 of the teachings from Genesis as a section in the larger series on Darwin and Christianity.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 8: The Genesis Account (part 2)

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 11:55:39 -0500

Fr. Tom Hopko continues his series on Darwin with his 2nd reflection on the creation story in Genesis.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 7: The Genesis Account (part 1)

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:05:21 -0500

In his continuing series on Charles Darwin and Christianity, Fr. Tom begins a reflection on the creation story as told in Genesis.

The Canonization Of Saints

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 17:21:17 -0500

Fr. Tom reflects further on the letter he received asking if God played favorites particularly as it relates to the canonization of Saints.

Call No Man Father

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:04:11 -0500

Fr. Thomas addresses a listener question on the often misunderstood admonition in the Gospel of Matthew to call no man father.

Thomas Sunday

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 23:59:34 -0500

Father Thomas educates us on why the Sunday a week after our Lord's Resurrection is also called Antipascha.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 6

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 06 Apr 2010 12:56:21 -0500

In his continuing series on Charles Darwin, Fr. Thomas reflects on the Darwinian revolution and Christian theology having to do with the Bible. How do the Scriptures relate to the scientific world in which we live especially following the 19th century?

Christ Is Risen - Truly He Is Risen

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 01:29:54 -0500

On this, the greatest of all Feast Days, Fr. Thomas explains what we, as Orthodox Christians, know for certain about Jesus Christ.

Great and Holy Week - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:17:10 -0500

Fr. Thomas continues his examination of Passion Week with Jesus' teachings on the final judgement.

Hosanna!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 00:38:13 -0500

Fr. Thomas takes a closer look at the "Celebration of the Kingship of Christ".

Suicide

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:13:00 -0500

In response to a listener's question, Fr. Thomas reflects on the phenomenon of suicide. How do we as Christians deal with it?

Darwin and Christianity - Part 5

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:17:24 -0500

In the 5th part of his series on Charles Darwin, Fr. Thomas talks about the relationship of this Darwinian Revolution and natural science in general to the issue of Orthodox Christian theology.

Predestination, Providence, and Prayer

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 22:36:44 -0500

Fr. Thomas Hopko explains how our acts, especially our prayers, are included in God's predestination based on His foreknowledge, and how our free-will actions, particularly our prayers, contribute to God's providence in our lives.

Does God Play Favorites?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 14:11:12 -0600

Fr. Tom addresses a question that came in by email from a listener who is perplexed by the seemingly inequitable treatment of people by God. Why are some blessed and others experience so much turmoil? It's a common question that is often felt but not always expressed.

The Body

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:16:09 -0600

What is the place of the human body in our spiritual life?

The Sunday of Orthodoxy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 21:38:20 -0600

As we celebrate the Triumph of Orthodoxy and the victory over iconoclasm, Fr. Tom gives a personal reflection on icons and their use and misuse.

A Homily For The Beginning Of Lent

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 11:16:23 -0600

As the Lenten season begins, Fr. Tom Hopko reads a brief sermon penned by Fr. John Parker of Holy Ascension Orthodox Church in Mt. Pleasant, SC. This sermon was written in the style and tradition of St. John Chrysostom's well known and loved Paschal Homily.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 4

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 20:26:47 -0600

In part 4 of Fr. Tom Hopko's talks on the Darwinian revolution, he looks at what Charles Darwin may have experienced in terms of Christianity in his day.

Studying and Communicating the Church Fathers

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 20:40:38 -0600

Today Fr. Tom talks about the study and communication of the Fathers of the Church according to Archimandrite Vasileios, retired Abbot of the Iviron Monastery on Mt. Athos.

Theological Reflections On Calamity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:44:28 -0600

How should we reflect on calamity and disasters like what was experienced in Haiti from a Christian perspective? Is God exacting judgment or is there another explanation? Fr. Tom Hopko helps us think this through.

The Prodigal Son and The Father’s House

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 12:52:16 -0600

Fr. Thomas takes a second look at the story of The Prodigal Son, this time focusing on the meaning of The Father's House.

Doctrinal Development

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 01:18:22 -0600

Today Fr. Tom talks about theological formulation and explanation in the Orthodox Christian Church.

Speaking Out For Life

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 23:34:44 -0600

Fr. Tom was unable to attend the March for Life rally in Washington DC earlier this week but he did think about what he would have said had he been given the opportunity to speak.

Meeting of Christ in the Temple

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:59:01 -0600

Fr. Hopko explains that this feast marks the end of the Winter Pascha and the beginning of the season of repentance.

Christianity in the Time of Darwin

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 15:29:36 -0600

In part 3 of the Darwin series, Fr. Tom explores the Darwin era and what was happening at that time in Christianity.

Reflections on the Life and Work of Charles Darwin

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 23 Jan 2010 13:18:24 -0600

Fr. Tom continues his series on Darwin and Christianity. This is part 2.

Darwin and Christianity - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:51:44 -0600

What is the relationship between the concepts of natural selection and Christian theology? Fr. Tom begins a series of reflections on Charles Darwin and what he has learned in his research may surprise you!

A Conversation With St. Seraphim On The Holy Spirit

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 06:11:52 -0600

Fr. Tom Hopko talks about St. Seraphim's conversation with Nicholas Motovilov on "acquisition of the Holy Spirit."

Acquisition of the Holy Spirit

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:04:24 -0600

St. Seraphim of Sarov taught that the aim of the Christian life is to live by the Spirit of God. Today Fr. Tom explores the acquisition of the Holy Spirit.

Theophany - The Radiant Shining Forth!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 19:53:37 -0600

From the Speaking the Truth in Love archives, Fr. Tom Hopko offers this very helpful meditation on the feast of Theophany.

Circumcised on the 8th Day

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 15:57:00 -0600

Enthroned on high with the Eternal Father and Your divine Spirit, O Jesus, You willed to be born on earth of the unwedded handmaid, your Mother. Therefore You were circumcised as an eight-day old Child. Glory to Your most gracious counsel; glory to Your dispensation; glory to Your condescension, O only Lover of mankind.

God Is With Us!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 18:10:37 -0600

In a new reflection, Fr. Thomas Hopko teaches about the virgin birth and the significance of this Orthodox dogma on the identify of Christ.

Nativity, Epiphany, and Pascha - Patterns of Worship

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 11:50:07 -0600

Fr. Thomas Hopko presents a meditation on how the liturgical services of Christmas and Epiphany pattern those of the Christ’s Holy Pascha of Easter.

The Genealogies

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 12:56:13 -0600

What is the significance of all of those "begats" in the Gospel lesson just before Nativity? Fr. Tom breaks it down for us in the current episode.

The Fathers Prepare

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 10:56:02 -0600

On the 1st two Sundays before Christmas, we commerate and sing about all of the faithful throughout the ages who prepared for the birth of Christ. Fr. Tom references the book "Surprised by Chris"t by Fr. A. James Bernstein which is available from Conciliar Press.

Come and See

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 13:10:44 -0600

We are invited like Philip invited Nathaniel to “come and see”, really see as we fix our hearts and minds on Christ the Savior during this paschal lenten season.

A Saturday Afternoon Reflection

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 18:18:27 -0600

On a beautiful fall afternoon at the family home in Canada, Fr. Tom is reflecting on the disparity between the beauty of God's creation and the tremendous suffering happening in the world.

A Deeper Level of Thanksgiving

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:06:50 -0600

Fr. Tom encourages us to remember the place of gratitude and thanksgiving in the Christian life and tells us how we can go deeper and higher into the meaning of gratitude.

The Entrance of the Theotokos Into the Temple

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:31:19 -0600

Fr. Tom teaches on this significant feast at the beginning of the Nativity season.

On Sadness and Grief in Human Life

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:03:25 -0600

God grieves, we grieve, and life is often permeated with sadness. What does this mean when we also contemplate the "joy" of the Christian life?

The Nativity Fast

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 12:22:53 -0600

As we are in the beginning days of the Nativity fast, Fr. Tom takes us on a journey from the Presentation of Mary in the Temple to Theophany. Fr. Tom referenced a couple of resources: Winter Pascha by Fr. Tom Hopko Putting Christmas Back into Christ-CD series by Fr. Tom Hopko

Angels and Demons

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 06:25:44 -0600

Having just celebrated the Feast of the Angels, Fr. Tom asks - Who are the angels and the demons? Were the demons created evil? Can they repent? Get the answer to these questions and much more in this episode.

Anger and Wrath in Human Life

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:47:22 -0600

Following his two part series on the Wrath of God, Fr. Tom turns his attention to our own anger and wrath and how that differs from God's.

The Wrath Of God - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 17:03:06 -0500

Fr. Thomas continues to get listener feedback on his teaching on God's wrath. In this follow-up lesson, he explores further how the Scriptures and the Fathers express this difficult concept as compared to the hellenistic and platonic views sometimes expressed through history.

The Wrath Of God

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 13:05:18 -0500

Fr. Tom Hopko addresses an issue that he gets the most email about - how are we to understand the wrath of God and how does it relate to our salvation?

The Protecting Veil Of The Holy Theotokos

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:28:19 -0500

Whether you celebrate it on October 1 or on October 28 (traditions differ), you will enjoy Fr. Thomas' account of how the Mother of God protected a Constantinople church from an invading army, and how that inspires our own worship.

A Reflection on the Past 50 Years of the Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:47:41 -0500

Sitting in his study, Fr. Tom reflects on the past 50 years of the Orthodox Church. August marked the 46th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.

The Universal Exaltation Of The Precious And Life-Giving Cross

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 11:04:47 -0500

Celebrating one of the twelve great feasts of the Church (Click here to view the children's choir Fr. Thomas mentions in the podcast).

A Christian Response To Terrorism

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:52:20 -0500

Fr. Tom follows up on his thoughts on suffering and pain by looking specifically at the events of 9-11-2001.

When Bishops Disappoint

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:23:38 -0500

Throughout the history of the Church, there have been moments of scandal and disappointment with various hierarchs of the Church. How are we to respond as faithful Orthodox Christians? Fr. Tom shares his reflections.

The Gate Facing East

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 21:36:50 -0500

Fr. Thomas teaches about the Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos.

Happy New (Church) Year!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 14:16:08 -0500

September 1 marks the beginning of the Church year and Fr. Tom Hopko is meditating on the meaning of times and seasons in Church life.

The Greatest Born Of Woman - St. John The Baptist - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 01:01:39 -0500

In commemoration of the Feast of his beheading, Fr. Tom continues his discussion of the Prophet, Forerunner and Baptizer, John.

Crossroad- Orthodox Youth Take The Challenge - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 12:27:31 -0500

Fr. Tom speaks with 2 students and a leader in the Crossroad program.

The Greatest Born Of Woman - St. John The Baptist - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 13:59:39 -0500

With the Feast Day of the Beheading of St. John approaching (August 29), Fr. Thomas examines the Prophet, Forerunner and Baptizer, John.

Crossroad- Orthodox Youth Take The Challenge

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 19:48:51 -0500

Fr. Tom interviews the leaders of the Crossroad program at Hellenic College in Brookline, MA. Crossroad is intended to help High School students discern their life callings, matching their personal gifts with the needs of the world. His guests are Ann Bezzerides, Mary Long, and Dan Belonic. He referenced in this interview his very informative AFR podcast series on the Church and State. After clicking the link, go to the series which started on September 25, 2008. In the next program, Fr. Tom will interview some of the participants in Crossroad.

The Resurrection School of Theology in Albania

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 12:32:18 -0500

In his final interview series from Albania, Fr. Tom talks with John and Alex from the Resurrection School of Theology in Albania.

4 U.S. Missionaries to Albania

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 17:53:49 -0500

In his continuing interview series from Albania, Fr. Tom interviews four US missionaries including full time OCMC missionary Pamela Anastasia Barksdale.

Missionary to Albania Nathan Hoppe

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:11:35 -0500

The next interview from Albania is with veteran OCMC missionary Nathan Hoppe. Fr. Tom references a recording of Nathan's late wife Lynette made only a week or two before she died. That recording was featured on AFR in an interview with Fr. Luke Veronis and can be heard HERE. You can purchase Fr. Luke's book by clicking HERE. For Lynette's pictorial album about the re-birth of the Church in Albania, click HERE.

Archbishop Anastasios of Albania

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 15:10:31 -0500

Fr. Thomas took the traveling Ancient Faith Radio microphone with him to Albania and captured several fascinating interviews there. Today we begin with this wonderful conversation between Fr. Tom and Archbishop Anastasios where we will learn about the circumstances that brought the Archbishop there as well as the current work going on in this country on behalf of the Church. To learn more about the Orthodox Church in Albania and, in particular, the mission work taking place there through the Orthodox Christian Missions Center, go to the OCMC WEBSITE.

A Chosen Instrument of Mine - St. Paul

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:54:28 -0500

Fr. Thomas shows how, despite his persecution of the early Church, St. Paul was indeed an Apostle-- by having seen the risen Lord and through his suffering.

Keys to the Kingdom - St. Peter

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:52:11 -0500

Fr. Thomas discusses "the rock" upon whom Christ built His Church and St. Peter's role in that early Church.

The Apostle’s Fast

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 12:26:35 -0500

What is this current fasting period all about? We reach back into the archives and re-introduce this helpful teaching from Fr. Tom originally given last year.

The Roots of Pentecost

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 11:54:08 -0500

Fr. Thomas looks at the roots of Pentecost-- the coming of the Spirit-- in Old Testament worship.

The God Who Works Wonders

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:19:01 -0500

Psalm 77 (76 in the Septuagint) is the basis of a favorite hymn in the Orthodox Church - Who Is So Great A God As Our God? Our God is the God Who Works Wonders!

Ascension

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 27 May 2009 09:13:25 -0500

Fr. Thomas rejoices in the enthronement of the crucified One, raised and glorified.

Fr. Tom Hopko Interviews Fr. Steve Tsichlis

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 22 May 2009 12:06:18 -0500

Fr. Tom is on the road and chats with Fr. Steve Tsichlis of St. Paul's Greek Orthodox Church in Irvine, CA. Learn about and be encouraged with this outreach minded parish and priest.

The Samaritan Woman At The Well

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 15 May 2009 13:19:46 -0500

Fr. Thomas looks at the Gospel for the fifth Sunday of Pascha-- a miraculous sign that at first glance doesn't seem to involve a miracle.

A President’s Day Reflection

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 23:54:55 -0600

Fr. Tom traces the history of America's secular religion, paying particular attention to that religion's cherished patriarchs and dogmas, in a special podcast dedicated to this week's President's Day.

The Prodigal Son, The Elder Brother, The Merciful Father

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 23:54:55 -0600

In the first of two meditations on the story known as The Prodigal Son, Fr. Tom takes a look at the three characters in the drama.

The Publican and the Pharisee

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 23:24:25 -0600

Fr. Tom teaches on the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee as we prepare for the Lenten season.

The Great Festival of the Three Holy Hierarchs

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 07 Feb 2009 05:47:20 -0600

What do Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and St. John Chrysostom mean to the Orthodox Church? Try "light, wisdom, and pastoral care." Fr. Hopko explains why we celebrate these unique and holy men.

The January Ascetic Fathers

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 21:53:59 -0600

As we bring the month of January to a close, Fr. Tom thinks back on the spiritual fathers we have celebrated during this month in particular, St. Anthony. The following resources were recommended: Saying of the Desert Fathers: The Alphabetical CollectionTranslated by Sister Benedicta Ward The Arena: An Offering to Contemporary Monasticism by Bishop Ignatius Brianchaninov The Philokalia Ladder of Divine Ascent Symeon the New Theologian: The Discourses St. Maximus the Confessor: The Ascetic Life, The Four Centuries on Charity St Athanasius: The Life of St. Antony Love's Immensity: Mystics on the Endless Life by Scott Cairns Orthodoxy Alive 2008 Sessions 1-3 presented by Fr. Thomas Hopko available on St George Orthodox Christian Cathedral website

The Day After and The Day Before

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 07:36:35 -0600

Fr. Tom recorded this on Jan 21 - the day after the inauguration of President Barak Obama and the day before the March for Life in Washington DC. He draws on Scripture, Tradition and St. Maximus to help us know how to react to rampant abortions in our world.

Baptism With Fire

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 00:34:44 -0600

There are radical differences in John's baptism, the baptism that Jesus' disciples were doing before Jesus was crucified, and the baptism that came afterward. Fr. Tom helps us understand how our baptism is a baptism with fire.

Falling Asleep

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 18:12:45 -0600

Father Thomas Hopko remembers the last days of Fr. Alexander Schmemann on the 25th anniversary of his falling asleep in our Lord Jesus Christ. May his memory be eternal.

The Demons and the Swine

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:42:09 -0600

Fr. Tom expounds on one of the most difficult passages in the New Testament.

Spiritual Springtime: Reflection on 40 Years

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 00:23:55 -0600

Fr. Tom spoke at the 40th Anniversary of the consecration of the chapel at the Orthodox Monastery of the Transfiguration in Ellwood City, PA on September 27, 2008. In this lecture he reflects on 40 years of Orthodoxy in North America.

Church And State - Part 8

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 16:00:22 -0500

Fr. Thomas concludes his series by reflecting on what it means to be a Christian in America today.

Church And State - Part 7

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:00:17 -0500

Fr. Hopko outlines how the Church fared in the 20th century in lands that were not traditionally Orthodox.

Church And State - Part 6

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 21:08:37 -0500

Fr. Tom looks at the Church in the 20th century, especially in Communist countries.

Church And State - Part 5

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:00:55 -0500

Fr. Tom discusses how the Orthodox Church fared in Russia before the revolution.

Church And State - Part 4

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:00:00 -0500

Fr. Thomas examines the four centuries of Muslim rule over Eastern Orthodox Christians.

Church And State - Part 3

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 16:00:17 -0500

Fr. Tom examines the fifth through fifteenth centuries.

Church And State - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:00:04 -0500

Fr. Tom looks at the Roman-Byzantine empire of the 4th century.

Church And State - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 16:00:58 -0500

What does it mean to be a Christian and to live in this world? To answer that question, Fr. Tom examines the ancient New Testament Church.

The Meaning Of Life

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 15:37:54 -0500

With the meaning of life no longer explored on our college campuses, Fr. Thomas reflects on a piece he wrote on that subject 18 years ago. (Click here to purchase "Education's End", which Fr. Tom recommends in the podcast and Click here to purchase a used copy of the Life book which includes Fr. Tom's essay.)

Mercy And Forgiveness

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:00:23 -0500

Fr. Thomas recreates the homily from earlier in the month on Christ's parable of forgiveness by Fr. Maxym Lysack of Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Ottawa (If you e-mail Fr. Maxym, please note the Canadian spelling of "saviour" and the ".ca" domain extension).

Pain And Suffering

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 16:00:24 -0500

Fr. Tom reflects on why there is sickness, suffering and death in our world.

Calluses And Blisters On Our Souls

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:00:31 -0500

Think Labor Day is past? Not until Fr. Tom reflects on our spiritual labors.

Let Us Not Live By Lies - The Life Of Alexander Solzhenitsyn

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 16:00:03 -0500

Fr. Thomas examines the life of the prominent Russian Orthodox dissident, writer and Nobel Peace Prize winner, who passed away just last month (Click here to order the "Solzhenitsyn Reader" recommended by Fr. Tom).

Not Made By Human Hands

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:00:00 -0500

Fr. Thomas relates the story of the icon not made by hand which is celebrated each August after the Dormition of the Theotokos. Could it actually be the shroud of Turin?

The End Of The Church Year

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 16:00:50 -0500

Fr. Tom couldn't let the Church Year end without looking back on the inspiring feasts during its last month, August.

Teaching Doctrine In The World We Live In Today - Part Three

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 11:00:47 -0500

Fr. Thomas concludes his three-part lecture on teaching doctrine given in June, 2008 at the Met. Andrey Sheptytsky Institute in Ottawa.

Teaching Doctrine In The World We Live In Today - Part Two

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:00:23 -0500

We continue with part two of Fr. Thomas' three-part lecture on teaching doctrine given in June, 2008 at the Met. Andrey Sheptytsky Institute in Ottawa.

Teaching Doctrine In The World We Live In Today - Part One

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 11:00:28 -0500

Ancient Faith Radio is proud to present a three-part lecture on teaching doctrine by Fr. Thomas given in June, 2008 at the Met. Andrey Sheptytsky Institute in Ottawa.

Icons And Their Placement

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 10:08:28 -0500

Father Thomas reveals how icons are painted and the proper procedure for placing them in the church building.

The Singing Of Psalms

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 12:33:14 -0500

Fr. Tom takes a close look at the psalmody of the Church and its use in Orthodox worship.

Intercessory Prayer

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 11:28:30 -0500

Fr. Thomas examines how we ask the Mother of God and Saints to pray on our behalf, and the misunderstood prayer for them to "save" us.

Person, Nature And Action

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 12:57:40 -0500

As an epilogue to his series on the language of God, Fr. Tom explains these technical, theological, terms used by the Church.

How We Speak Of God - Part 4

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:29:57 -0500

In the final part of his series, Fr. Tom reflects on the metaphors and similes for God.

How We Speak Of God - Part 3

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:10:54 -0500

This time, Fr. Thomas speaks of the Activities and Actions of God.

How We Speak Of God - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 10:54:00 -0500

Fr. Tom continues his discussion, this time focusing on the Divine Attributes of God.

How We Speak Of God - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:03:00 -0500

Fr. Thomas begins a four-part series on naming God and the language and words we use in the process.

The Iconographic Tradition Of The Holy Trinity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 11:26:00 -0500

Fr. Thomas explains the two ways the Holy Trinity are depicted in icons.

The Holy Trinity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:32:00 -0500

Fr. Thomas examines the Holy Trinity, which leads to the answer to Christ's question, "Who do you say I am?"

Fasting

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 01:00:00 -0500

With the Apostles' fast at hand, Fr. Thomas reflects on the practice and rules for fasting.

The Sunday Of All The Saints

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Fr Thomas Hopko and Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 11:35:01 -0500

Fr. Thomas shows how we are all called to be Saints and examines the many different kinds of Saints.