The Illumined Heart

169 - What Does Forgiveness Really Mean?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 19:33:10 +0000

We ask God to forgive our sins and God tells us that His forgiveness is conditional on our forgiveness of others. But what does forgiveness really mean? Does it mean forgetting the offense entirely, or is it the intention to forgive that matters? What if we forgive, but the bitterness or the memory of the sin or offense comes back - have we not truly forgiven? Are we to repent of our sin once, or is it a continual process? These and other questions are the topic of the next Illumined Heart with guest Rev. Fr Tom Soroka.

168 - Eastern Catholics - Are They “Orthodox”?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:36:28 +0000

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.

167 - Orthodoxy and the Death Penalty

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 03:10:08 +0000

On March 9, 2011 the Governor of Illinois signed a law banning the death penalty in his state, commuting the death sentence of 15 prisoners on death row. In the current episode of The Illumined Heart, Fr Peter-Michael Preble, a staunch anti-death penalty advocate, and host Kevin Allen discuss the pros and cons of capital punishment from an Orthodox perspective. Fr.Peter references the book Contemporary Moral Issues Facing The Orthodox Christian by Fr. Stanley Harakas.

166 - Food and Faith

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 23:54:48 +0000

As 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!!

165: Metropolitan Kallistos Ware On the Record

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:54:47 +0000

In 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.

Metropolitan Kallistos Ware on the future of Orthodoxy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:35:27 +0000

In part 6 of our interview with the Metropolitan, we ask him to address the future of Orthodoxy and whether he is pessimistic or optimistic.

Metropolitan Kallistos Ware on Ethnicity and Nationalism in Orthodoxy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:30:37 +0000

We ask His Eminence about the role of nationalism and ethnicity in the Orthodox Church.

Metropolitan Kallistos Ware on Music and Hymnology in the Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:20:46 +0000

In this section, Metropolitan Kallistos addresses the question of music adaptation to the culture and modern ears.

Metropolitan Kallistos Ware on Gender Issues in the Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:10:40 +0000

The Metropolitan is asked about women's ordination and same sex attraction in this section of the interview.

Metropolitan Kallistos Ware on What Evangelicals and Orthodox Can Learn From Each Other

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:04:59 +0000

What can Evangelicals and Orthodox learn from each other is the subject of the 2nd section of our interview with His Eminence.

Metropolitan Kallistos Ware on the State of the Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 23:00:34 +0000

In the first section of our extensive interview with Metropolitan Kallistos, we talk about the state of the Orthodox Church both here and abroad.

164: Suffering - An Orthodox Perspective

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 04:10:53 +0000

Why do we suffer after becoming Christian? How do we reconcile the suffering of innocent children with a loving God? These and other perplexing and challenging questions are the subject of this episode of The Illumined Heart with guest, poet and writer of The End of Suffering, Scott Cairns.

163: Yoga and Orthodox Christianity: Are They Compatible?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 05:05:26 +0000

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.

162: The Quiet Cradle

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 21 Jan 2011 07:14:17 +0000

Are 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.

161: Interfaith Dialogue: Co-Exist or Convert?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 14 Jan 2011 05:24:46 +0000

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.

160: Catechizing New Age and Eastern Religion Seekers

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 15:36:55 +0000

In 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 question that will be addressed in this program. You may download an attachment of the course outline here.

159: The Occult: Shining Light on Satan’s Shadow - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 07:50:18 +0000

Listen to Part 2 of this fascinating concluding conversation between host Kevin Allen and Orthodox priest and occult-specialist, Father George Aquaro.

158: The Occult: Shining Light on Satan’s Shadow

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 09:16:45 +0000

In 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.

157: The Spiritual Guide in Eastern Orthodoxy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 19 Nov 2010 06:47:09 +0000

Host 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.

156: Orthodox & Evangelical Relations: Where are we?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 05:11:11 +0000

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?”

155: Immortality of the soul or Resurrection of the Dead?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 22 Oct 2010 12:01:37 +0000

In this episode, Kevin and Father Steven C. Kostoff discuss two views of the afterlife that separate the New Age/Eastern/Gnostic from the central historic Christian belief.

154: Metropolitan PHILIP Saliba - On the Record

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 18:30:35 +0000

The 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 wanted him to address: 1. The meaning and future of self rule in the Antiochian Archdiocese. 2. The status of the Bishops in North America and the meaning as well as the ramifications of the title “Auxiliary Bishop.” 3. The finances of the Antiochian Archdiocese and in particular the status of an audit. 4. The view point of His Eminence on the Episcopal Assembly, SCOBA, and the future of Administrative Unity in North America. We have left the Metropolitan’s remarks intact and unedited to make them available to the audience for their own evaluation and conclusions. This episode provides the entire interview. If you are interested in listening to the individual topics, we have also divided it up into 4 sections and those are available on The Illumined Heart page of Ancient Faith Radio. A free transcript is also available.

153: Metropolitan PHILIP on the Status of Self-Rule in the Archdiocese

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 18:30:01 +0000

152: Metropolitan PHILIP on the Status of Bishops in the Archdiocese

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 16:29:30 +0000

151: Metropolitan PHILIP on the Financial Audit of the Archdiocese

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 16:29:00 +0000

150: Metropolitan PHILIP on the Episcopal Assembly

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 16:28:23 +0000

149: How Many Are We

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 01:09:45 +0000

Illumined 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!

148: Orthodox Christianity and Racial Reconciliation

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 24 Sep 2010 03:25:09 +0000

Meet Father Paisius Altschul, the priest of Saint Mary of Egypt Serbian Orthodox Church and the Executive Director of Reconciliation Services/FOCUS Kansas City. Kevin speaks with Father Paisius about his community’s unique ministry of racial reconciliation and ministry to the poor and homeless in the inner city of Kansas City. (USA).

147: Can We Really Know God? - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 10 Sep 2010 04:05:32 +0000

Host Kevin Allen and Father Michael Reagan continue their conversation about this most important of topics: Knowing God. Next Illumined Heart: Friday, September 24, 2010

146: Can We Really Know God?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:47:53 +0000

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.

145: Founding an Orthodox Liberal Arts and Sciences College

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:48:16 +0000

Kevin interviews Dr. Frank Papatheofanis, President of the new St. Katherine College, about what it takes to start an Orthodox liberal arts and sciences college.

144: The Animal Rights Movement from an Orthodox Perspective

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 20:46:57 +0000

Human 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 !

143: Is Your Parish Dead Or Alive?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:28:18 +0000

On this encore program from 2008, Kevin speaks with Fr. Jonathon Ivanoff, Secretary of the Department of Evangelization of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) about the "life cycle" of parishes and how to know whether your parish is thriving, dying or dead on the vine -- and what can be done about it!

142: Mystery and Sacramentality: East and West

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:58:43 +0000

What 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!

141: Desert Wisdom In The City

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:02:08 +0000

Listen in on this sublime encore conversation between renowned spiritual elder Father Zacharias (Zakarou), spiritual child of Elder Sophrony, and Kevin's guest host Father Josiah Trenham, senior pastor of St Andrew Orthodox Church, Riverside, California. This is one you won't want to miss!

140: Living in the Ruins of Christendom - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:19:32 +0000

Dr. H. Tristram Engelehardt, Jr. concludes his fascinating interview about life in a “neo-pagan” culture with “competing moral alternatives”.

139: Living in the Ruins of Christendom - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:23:56 +0000

Medical doctor (M.D.) and doctor of Philosophy (PhD.), author and university professor, Dr (Herman) Tristram Engelhardt, Jr. explains why our culture is post-Christian and post-metaphysical, how it got that way, and what the implications and challenges are for the Orthodox family.

138: Church Scandals And The Canons

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:01:20 +0000

Fr. Alexander Rentel, Orthodox canonist and Assistant Professor of Canon Law and Byzantine Studies at St Vladamir'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.

137: Turn, Turn, Turn

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:34:45 +0000

Chris 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.

136: Baptist Missionary Confronts Long-held Evangelical Tenets - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:21:05 +0000

Listen to part 2 of Kevin's interview with Fr. James Early

135: Baptist Missionary Confronts Long-held Evangelical Tenets - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:17:26 +0000

In 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.

134: Marriage As A Path To Holiness

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:00:17 +0000

Orthodox marriage and family therapist and professor at Holy Cross Theological Seminary, Dr. Philip Mamalakis, speaks about the mystery of marriage and how it is meant to be -- and can be -- a path to holiness.

133: Law And Order And Orthodox Christianity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 13:00:40 +0000

Rookie police officer, Orthodox deacon's son and priest's grandson, Joseph (Jobie) Braun speaks with Kevin about his job as a policeman in the infamous Los Angeles "South Central" area (e.g. the movie "Training Day") and how his Orthodox Christianity keeps him grounded.

132: Holiness In Our Time

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:00:56 +0000

Fr Michael Plekon, author of newly-released "Hidden Holiness" speaks with Kevin about the "crisis of holiness in our time" and the shape and form holiness can take in our day and age, both within and outside of our Orthodox Christian Tradition. Can St. Seraphim of Sarov and the Dalai Lama equally be called "holy"? Tune in to find out!

131: The Nature And Mission Of The Bishop In The Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:00:17 +0000

In the opening program of a new series of interviews, Dr. Bradley Nassif, theologian, author and life-long member of the Antiochian Archdiocese in North America, speaks about the "The Nature and Mission of the Bishop in the Orthodox Church". You can also read Dr Nassif's one-page piece referred to in the interview from the Antiochian website.

130: Death To The World, At Cornerstone Festival 2009

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:00:40 +0000

The 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!

129: Visited By St. John Maximovitch - An Epilogue

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 13:00:07 +0000

As an epilogue to his series on Saint John the Wonderworker, Kevin speaks with Fr. Wayne Wilson, who was visited twice by the departed saint during a very significant medical crisis. It is a moving and powerful witness to Vladyka John's continuing "ministry", as well as that of all of the saints and a fitting ending to Kevin's retrospective honoring the 43rd anniversary of his repose.

128: My Days With St. John The Wonder Worker - Part 6

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 13:00:34 +0000

Kevin Allen and Subdeacon Gregory Hendry conclude their intimate look at Saint John Maximovitch, wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco.

127: My Days With St. John The Wonder Worker - Part 5

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:59:59 +0000

43 years after the falling asleep in the Lord of Vladyka St. John Maximovitch, Subdeacon Gregory Hendry paints an intimate portrait of the beloved Saint.

126: My Days With St. John The Wonder Worker - Part 4

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 13:00:22 +0000

Continuing 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.

125: My Days With St. John The Wonder Worker - Part 3

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 13:00:35 +0000

Commemorating 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.

124: My Days With St. John The Wonder Worker - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 13:00:23 +0000

Subdeacon Gregory Hendry continues his recollections of Vladyka, Saint John Maximovitch in the second of a six-part series with host Kevin Allen.

123: My Days With St. John The Wonder Worker - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:00:44 +0000

Share 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.

122: Orthodox Christianity and Capitalism Revisited

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 13:00:09 +0000

The previous podcast on this subject stimulated comments about whether we covered the bases on this issue fully or dispassionately enough. In this conversation, Fr John Whiteford, (ROCOR) priest and frequent conservative commentator and blogger, and Dr. Amir Azarvan, (ROCOR) layman, political science lecturer, and self-described "social democrat," talk about poverty, the welfare state, whether alms-giving is spiritually effective if government mandated, and the best way to live out the Orthodox Christian life in the world.

121: Insanity Or Demonic Possession?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:00:34 +0000

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.

120: Pascha In Cyprus - An American Convert’s Experience

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 13:00:02 +0000

Jake 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.

119: Why Doesn’t God Answer My Prayer?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 13:00:24 +0000

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.

118: My Conversion From Islam To Orthodox Christianity - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 29 May 2009 14:00:44 +0000

Anthony Alai, ex-Evangelical apologist, minister and convert from Islam discusses his ministry to Muslims and the journey that led him from Evangelicalism to the door of the ancient Eastern Orthodox Church (Antiochian) in this fascinating and inspiring conclusion.

117: My Conversion From Islam To Orthodox Christianity - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 22 May 2009 13:00:31 +0000

Anthony Alai, an ex-Shia Muslim discusses his profound discovery of and conversion to Christ as a teenager, against everything he was taught to believe, in this edition of The Illumined Heart. This is an amazing and inspiring story!

116: Former Charismatic Episcopal Church Priest Starts Western Rite Orthodox Mission

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:00:50 +0000

Kevin talks with ex-CEC priest - and former Evangelical - Fr Mark Wallace about his journey (along with his wife Susan) to the Eastern Orthodox Church through the Western Rite. Fr Mark's mission is Saint Andrew, the First Called Antiochian Orthodox Church, in Oklahoma City.

115: American Orthodox Christianity At A Crossroads - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 08 May 2009 13:01:15 +0000

Kevin concludes his discussion with George C. Michalopulos.

114: The American Orthodox Church At A Crossroads

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 08 May 2009 13:00:35 +0000

In 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 and state of Orthodoxy in North America and possible outcomes of this potentially pivotal convocation.

113: American Parish Builds Orthodox Church In Tanzania

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 01 May 2009 19:00:02 +0000

Join 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.

112: A Journey From Canterbury to Antioch

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 18:59:24 +0000

Listen to the journey of former Anglican priest and early pioneer of the Charismatic Renewal in the United Kingdom to Orthodox Christianity. Fr Michael Harper is the Dean of the Antiochian Deanery of United Kingdom and Ireland, the pastor of St Botolph Antiochian Orthodox Church in London, and author of 18 books, including "A Faith Fulfilled."

111: Orthodox Christianity And Capitalism: Are They Compatible?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 19:00:43 +0000

Writer, attorney, and college professor Chris Banescu discusses the economic, moral and spiritual issues surrounding the "capitalist" economic model and whether it serves the best interests of Christians living the life of the Beatitudes.

110: Raphael House And Orthodox Service To The Needy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 19:00:58 +0000

In this interview Fr David Lowell, the Executive Director of San Francisco's first homeless shelter for families with children, takes us behind the scenes and through the history, mission and "Orthodox ethos" of this prominent and well-known Orthodox ministry.

109: Orthodox Advocate For Human “Exceptionalism”

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:00:39 +0000

The centrality of human life in the created world is under attack on all fronts. At the very heart of the debate is whether humans have intrinsic value greater than animals, minerals and lifeless matter. Orthodox convert, lawyer, writer and "human exceptionalism" advocate Wesley J. Smith is at the vortex of this debate, and discusses the current issues that will determine whether our culture views human life as unique in the years ahead.

108: Reflections on the Vocation of a Wife and Mother

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 18:26:21 +0000

Molly 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!

107: Lent - Transformation And Enlightenment - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:01:57 +0000

Kevin continues his Lenten discussion with Fr. Stephen Freeman.

106: Lent - Transformation And Enlightenment - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 19:00:39 +0000

This special, two-part The Illumined Heart Lenten interview is with Fr. Stephen Freeman, popular blogger and pod caster. Fr. Stephen discusses questions like how Lent forms us for "inner knowledge of God." This is a mid-Lent "treat" you won't want to miss.

105: A Christian End To Our Life

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 23:11:13 +0000

We are taught how to live and die in Christ as Eastern Orthodox Christians. In this edition of The Illumined Heart, Antiochian Auxiliary Bishop, the Right Reverend Thomas (Joseph) shares with us valuable lessons on how to prepare for and care for those who are near the end of their physical journey.

104: Classic Orthodox Education in America

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:00:35 +0000

There is a growing movement afoot to create elementary and secondary "Orthodox schools" in the U.S. Kevin discusses this development with veteran educator Bryan Smith, the Director of the Orthodox Schools Association and the Director-Headmaster of Saint Peter's Classic School in Fort Worth, Texas.

103: From Eastern And New Age Metaphysics To Orthodox Christianity - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:00:29 +0000

Kevin concludes his interview with Veronica Hughes.

102: From Eastern And New Age Metaphysics To Orthodox Christianity - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 17:00:27 +0000

Veronica 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.

101: C.S. Lewis And Orthodoxy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:00:00 +0000

Everyone 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.)

100: Indian And Orthodox

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 18:00:11 +0000

In 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.

99: The Legacy of St Paul and the Church - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:00:57 +0000

Kevin continues his discussion with Fr. Ted Stlylianapolous on the teachings of St. Paul

98: The Legacy of St Paul and the Church - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 18:00:36 +0000

Fr. 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.

97: Speaking Of Sola Scriptura

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:00:14 +0000

Fr. 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.

96: The Culture War and Orthodox Christianity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 18:00:48 +0000

Fr. 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!

95: Meet Metropolitan Jonah - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 06:26:36 +0000

Here is part 2 of this historic interview with Metropolitan Jonah who was just enthroned as Archbishop of Washington and New York and Metropolitan of All America for the Orthodox Church in America. In this half of the interview, His Beatitude Jonah addresses matters such as Administrative Unity among Orthodox jurisdictions, evangelism, and the events that led up to his election at the All American Council in November.

94: Meet Metropolitan Jonah!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 18:38:28 +0000

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 week we will bring you part 2.

93: Orthodoxy And The African American Experience

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 18:00:57 +0000

Join guest host Turbo Qualls and OCA priest, author, and president of The Brotherhood of St Moses the Black, Fr. Moses Berry, in their conversation about Orthodox Christianity and why it is a gift to African Americans.

92: If Prosperity Fails, Does The Gospel Also Fail?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 18:00:38 +0000

Kevin and his guest, Orthodox journalist Glen Chancy, discuss the "Prosperity Gospel" and the implications of a "Gospel message" tied to material prosperity, especially in light of a failing economy.

91: Viva Ortodoxia!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 17:59:17 +0000

Hispanics comprise one of the largest and fastest-growing demographic groups in the United States. Find out what what one "inner city" Orthodox parish in Los Angeles is doing to reach out and minister to them! Dn Paul Olson, a former Protestant missionary to Columbia explains.

90: The Family As The “Little Church”

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 16:00:49 +0000

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.

89: Discovering The Whole Christ - Head And Body - In The Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:00:08 +0000

In this edition meet post-modern John Ma'ae, who looked for truth in Theravada Buddhism and eventually found the fullness of Christ as the head and body of the Orthodox Church.

88: Today’s Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 16:00:49 +0000

Kevin's guest is Alexei Krindatch, the research director of the most extensive and authoritative study ever conducted on how American Orthodox view the Orthodox Church today. This just-published study is full of interesting surprises and will shatter many stereotypes about Orthodoxy in America.

87: ‘Turning Around’ An Orthodox Parish

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 17:00:31 +0000

In 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!

86: Chalcedon Revisted

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 10:31:00 +0000

In today's program Kevin and his guest, St Vladimir's Theological Seminary professor, historian, and author Fr John Erickson, discuss the near 1500-year rift between the Oriental Orthodox (Armenian, Coptic, Ethiopian, Indian) and Eastern Orthodox churches. They will discuss the theology, history, politics, attempts at reunion and the current state of affairs between these two ancient eastern Christian churches.

85: From Roman Catholic Priest To Eastern Orthodox Christian

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:18:39 +0000

This interview with ex-Trinitarian Order Catholic Priest Robert Jackline provides a fascinating inside look at the failures of the Post-Vatican 2 Catholic Church and why the Orthodox Church was a better fit.

84: Managing Mammon - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 09:58:25 +0000

This could be the most practical and balanced financial information you will ever hear. In part 2, Kevin and his guests, Dn. Tom Braun and Scot Larsen dig into investments and priorities for the non-financially astute.

Managing Mammon - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 11 Oct 2008 08:54:07 +0000

With the near financial meltdown upon us, the next two programs discuss ways Orthodox Christians are to understand money, steward and budget their finances, and plan for their ultimate retirements (and everything in between!). Dn Tom Braun is a business owner and seminar speaker on things financial. Scot Larsen is a sofware executive, who fought his way out of crippling credit card debt and is now an advocate of Christian financial principals.

The role of the layperson in the Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 04 Oct 2008 08:26:28 +0000

In this edition of the Illumined Heart, pioneering radio host of "Our Life In Christ" Steve Robinson talks with Kevin about the role, opportunity and challenges of lay (person) "ministry" within the Orthodox Church. Is the Orthodox Church so clerically oriented that there isn't room for lay ministry? Listen and find out in this frank interview!

From Hare Krishna to Christ - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 08:31:41 +0000

Today we bring you part 2 of Kevin's interview with Patrick Landsdowne.

My Journey From Hare Krishna to Christ - Part One

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 10:00:01 +0000

Hear 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?

As the Apostles Taught: How Orthodoxy understands apostolic succession.

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 06:33:01 +0000

In this edition Kevin tackles the tricky question of which Christian tradition can authentically claim "apostolic succession", with historian, theologian, author and Dean of St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological seminary, Fr John Behr.

Orthodox Christian Psychological Therapy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 09:57:14 +0000

Wouldn't it be wonderful to combine the "best" of classic Orthodox Christian spiritual "therapies" (praxis) with modern psychological modalities in therapy? In the first of the new fall line-up, Kevin speaks with Orthodox professor and therapist, Dr. Philip Mamalakis about the ground-breaking work in this area he is pioneering. The web site for Dr. Philip that was mentioned in the interview can be found HERE.

Evangelism in America: How the Greek Archdiocese Sees It

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 30 Aug 2008 08:06:43 +0000

Encore presentation: Fr. Jim Kordaris, Director of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Outreach and Evangelism, speaks candidly about how the GOA understands “Orthodox evangelism” in America, whether it is committed to growth outside of its ethnic heritage, the role of "Hellenism" in the GOA's evangelistic strategy, and whether he sees the GOA playing a vital role in bringing Orthodoxy to America.

Christians Suffering in Iraq - Encore

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 09 Aug 2008 05:50:57 +0000

Kevin’s guest in this summer encore presentation is Amal Morcos of IOCC who reports on her trip to Syria and Lebanon.

Is There A “Revolving Door” In The Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 13:46:33 +0000

In this encore presentation, Kevin's guest is Dr. Brad Nassif. Are converts coming into the Orthodox churches only to leave through a “revolving door” due to a lack of spiritual nourishment? Theologian Dr. Bradley Nassif’s controversial article on the subject (“Reclaiming the Gospel”) is the subject of this frank and hard-hitting interview.

From Classic Evangelicalism to Orthodoxy

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 01:54:37 +0000

In this encore presentation of The Illumined Heart, hear the story of John Maddex who, along with his wife Tonya, found the Orthodox Church after nearly 40 years in Evangelical Christian radio.

Toward An American Orthodox Church - Encore Presentation

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 03:02:28 +0000

If you missed it the first time, here is another opportunity to hear this very frank and open conversation with Charles Ajalat, the Chancellor of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese in North America. It is about an hour long but worth the investment of your time!

Mystery and Sacramentality: East and West

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 04:57:00 +0000

In this encore presentation, Kevin talks with Fuller Theological Seminary professor Dr. Paraskeve (Eve) Tibbs about 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!

Calvin Forum Moderator Becomes Orthodox

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 12:11:00 +0000

Kevin interviews Robert Meyering, the former moderator of the Calvin Forum, now Orthodox Christian.

By Way of Kosovo

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 03:54:00 +0000

Hunter Haynes, midwest policeman and self-proclaimed "nominal Presbyterian", spent a year in Kosovo (then part of Serbia) as a United Nations peacekeeper. The experience changed his life. Find out why in this compelling interview!

Orthodox Christians Encountering Muslims

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 01:30:00 +0000

In this edition Kevin and Fr Ted Pulcini talk frankly about Orthodox Christian - Muslim dialogue and how Orthodoxy can best communicate its ineffable Truth to Muslims in a way that will resonate. Fr Ted's recently published booklet is titled Face to Face: A Guide for Orthodox Christians Encountering Muslims.

One Marriage - Two Churches: Loving Your Spouse Into The Orthodox Church

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:54:00 +0000

A common dillemma for inquirers into the Orthodox Church is either disinterest or outright hostility to the idea of Orthodoxy by their spouse. In this edition Kevin speaks with a couple who lived this scenario. Meet Bruce and Lynn Marie Heying and learn about their family dynamic and what made Lynn Marie decide to follow Bruce into Orthodoxy seven years later.

My Journey From Witchcraft To Orthodoxy - Part 2

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 01:17:00 +0000

Kevin continues his discussion with former Wicca priestess, Sara Hillis. At the end of the interview, he references her music which can be found at http://www.artistopia.com/sarahillis.

My Journey From Witchcraft To Orthodoxy - Part 1

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 31 May 2008 02:28:06 +0000

Meet Sara Hillis, musician and English literature scholar who became a witch priestess before encountering Christ and finding the Orthodox Church!

Surprised by Christ

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 23 May 2008 00:14:00 +0000

Father James Bernstein, author of the newly-released "Surprised by Christ: My journey from Judaism to Orthodox Christianity", speaks about his conversion from Judaism to Orthodoxy and why he believes Orthodox Christianity is the "fulfillment" of biblical Judaism.

What is Authentic Orthodox Music?

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 17 May 2008 02:24:00 +0000

You may be surprised by the answer from musicologist, composer, arranger, author and Sacred Music Department Committee member (Antiochian) Fr. John Finley!

Finding The Right Partner For Life

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Fri, 09 May 2008 21:08:01 +0000

Kevin speaks with author Fr. Dn. Stephen Holley about how Orthodox Christians ought to approach finding the right marriage partner. Dn. Stephen is the author of "How Do I Find The Right Partner For Life", published by Light and Life.

Struggling With Infertility

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 03 May 2008 04:10:26 +0000

6 million women between the ages of 15 and 44 are clinically infertile. Infertility presents a heartbreaking struggle for many Orthodox couples who wonder whether it is God's will for them to be childless, or whether new fertility technologies (and which ones?) are appropriate. In this edition Kevin speaks with Orthodox theologian and ethicist Fr. John Breck about infertility and what options Orthodox Christian couples have to deal with it within an Orthodox context.

Collateral Damage: Iraq’s persecuted Christians

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 03:10:00 +0000

As many as 30%+ of Iraqi's 4.2 million displaced refugees are Christian. They are being persecuted from all sides of the conflict. Amal Morcos of IOCC recently returned from Syria and Lebanon and reports first hand on what the U.N. calls "the fastest growing refugee crisis in the world."

From Rastafari to Orthodoxy!

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 06:27:00 +0000

Join Kevin in this fascinating conversation with Michael Wilson, former Rastafarian and radio reggae music D.J., about his journey from the Rastafari religion to the holy Orthodox Church! (31:27)

Pascha and Personal Experience

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 06:10:00 +0000

Guest: His Grace Bishop JOSEPH, Bishop of the Antiochian Archdiocese of Los Angeles and the West. Feeling the mid-Lent blahs, or are the Lent "purple demons" out in force? Perhaps you are not "feeling" anything and wondering what the purpose of the Church's injunctions to pray, fast and give alms are supposed to cause in us during Great Lent and Pascha? Well you're not alone! Kevin asks H.G. JOSEPH these very questions in this encouraging and consoling interview.

Desert Wisdom In The City

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 11:24:01 +0000

Listen in on this sublime conversation between renowned spiritual elder Father Zacharias (Zakarou), spiritual child of Elder Sophrony, and Kevin's guest host Father Josiah Trenham, senior pastor of St Andrew Orthodox Church, Riverside, California. This is one you won't want to miss!

Orthodoxy and the Environment

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 06:04:01 +0000

Kevin speaks with the ecological advisor to the Ecumenical Patriarch (the "'Green' Patriarch"!) Dn.John Chryssavgis PhD, about the connection between the ancient faith of Orthodox Christianity and contemporary ecology.

Kevin Speaks With The Rabbi About Judaism And Christianity

feeds@ancientfaith.com (Illumined Heart / Ancient Faith Radio) — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 06:01:02 +0000

This week Kevin re-conneects after 35 years with his old college dorm neighbor, Conservative Jewish Rabbi Alan J.Iser, about Judaism, the Jewish roots of Orthodox Christianity, and how religious Jews understand the Torah verses what Christians interpret christologically in this frank interview. Rabbi Iser is the spiritual leader of Congregation OR SHALOM in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. 44:05