God is Ready - Are You?

God is Ready - Are You?

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday December 23, 2007 by Fr John Brian
at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on the meaning behind the genealogy of Luke 3. Attention given to the beginning of Isaiah Chapter 11, Acts Chapter 3 and Galations 4:18-20.
These are among the readings appointed for the preparation period for
Holy Nativity in Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church calendar year.

Pray for our mission efforts.

Fr John Brian at 2nd Annual Good Neighbor Interfaith Gathering

2nd Annual Good Neighbor Interfaith Gathering
Middleton Public Library - December 12, 2007

Rev Fr John-Brian Paprock spoke about interfaith dialogue and interfaith gathering (while technical problem with computer presentation was resolved).

Christopher River Paprock read the Middleton Mayoral Proclamation of Interfaith Awareness Week.

Audio recorded live - presented unedited.
22 minutes, 15 seconds




Part 2 of the event (along with pictures) can be found at www.interfaithsociety.blogspot.com

God HAS a Better Idea

God HAS a Better Idea

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday December 16, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on the last passage of Matthew Chapter 1, Joseph's dream. Attention given to the beginning of Genesis Chapter 13, John 6:42-46 and the end of Galations Chapter 1.
These are among the readings appointed for the preparation period for Holy Nativity in Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church calendar year.

Pray for our mission efforts.

Article - Involving Children in the Reason for the Season

Involving Children in the Reason for the Season

by Rev. John-Brian Paprock (for Capital Newspapers)

published in the Holiday Worship Supplement ~ Sunday, December 16, 2007

One of the delights of the Christmas season is gift-giving, especially to children. Watching them open gifts with excitement, with big genuine smiles even giggles, is truly a joy to parents, grandparents and adults everywhere. Finding the right toy or proper gift can be part of the fun, giving even grown-ups with empty nests a reason to go into a toy store. As important as this tradition is in America to our collective culture and economy, Christmas has always been about so much more.

Gift giving is the emulation of those three king-sages that traveled to see the infant king, Jesus in Bethlehem 2000 years ago. It is also a tribute to St. Nicholas, that generous saint of Asia Minor.

But there were angels singing and shepherds adoring. And there is the baby Jesus, God incarnate, according to most of Christian denominations. He is the Son of God, the Prince of Peace who came and served creation with altruistic sacrifice. Through his recorded life, he fed the hungry, healed and gave comfort to the sick, the poor, the destitute. He forgave sinners and gave dignity to those that were separated from society. So, there are more than the kings to emulate at this time of year.

Other than just giving children gifts from Santa Claus, how can children be included in understanding the deeper meaning of what Christmas is about?

A word of caution before reading further – following these may deepen adult faith in God and humanity. In fact, you probably do not need a child to do any of these suggestions.

Emulating Angels with singing and bringing hope:

- Have children create the holiday cards you send out, rather than using store-bought ones. What messages should be included? If it’s too late this year, file this idea away for next year OR come up with next year’s card this year.

- Take children with you to go caroling at a retirement home or hospital. If you haven’t caroled before (or haven’t in a long time) - join a group of carolers or start one at your church. Caroling is sharing the joy of seasonal music with others.

- Join Handel’s Messiah sing-a-long as a family.

Teaching altruism - giving to those in need

- Take your kids shopping to pick out gifts for a needy family. Find out where you could actually bring the gifts so they could be distributed – several local agencies and churches have families you can "adopt" for Christmas

- Go through toys and clothes and helping decide what can be donated to charity before Santa Claus comes.

Teaching altruism - giving of self

- There ARE plenty of volunteer opportunities that are appropriate to do with children or as a family. Children can help ring bells for the Salvation Army. They help collect non-perishable foods for pantries. Check with United Way or your local non-profit for opportunities and how your children can be involved.

- Letting children give "gifts" of time by helping others (shoveling the sidewalk for the single mom next door or vacuuming grandpa's house)

- Be an example to children, even if there is not much they can do. Allowing them to watch you demonstrate the reason for the season can be as important, especially for the younger children.

Teaching peace – reaching out to make the world better

- Attend events that work for peace with different cultures or beliefs.

- Research national charities as a family and choose one to donate to, such as Christian Children's Fund or Heifer Inc. Children can give a portion of their allowance that month so they're really participating. If the family "adopts" an overseas child, they can draw pictures to send to the child overseas.

- Sit in a mall and wave to people; wish those good tidings and peace

- Smile and be courteous

Adoring God

- Revive an old family or church tradition. Explore your cultural heritage. What did your ancestors do to adore God?

- Reading the Nativity Gospels as a family. Have the children tell the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus in their own words at a family dinner, or have siblings put on a Christmas play at home.

- Make church attendance as a family a central part of the holiday celebration. There are over 500 churches of over 50 denominations in the area to choose from if you don’t have a church home.

At the darkest time of the year, children can be agents of light. They can be included in the work of the greater good in society. Anything we can do to bring the gifts of light, love, peace, charity and hope into fruition in this world is the reason for the season – the fulfillment of the birth of Jesus Christ, the consummate gift for the world, for those that believe.

Forerunning for Christ

Forerunning for Christ

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday December 9, 2007 by Fr John Brian
at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on the last passage of Luke Chapter 1, the Birth of John the Baptist and the prophecy of his father Zechariah, with special attention Isaiah 62, Psalm 127 and 1 John 3:1-3 - as well as touching on other scriptures.

These are among the readings appointed for the Birth of John the Baptist during
the preparation period for Holy Nativity in Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church
calendar year.

Last week, for the first time in mission history, excessive snow fall caused cancellations of Sunday services.

Pray for us.

Encounter Divine Changes

Encounter Divine Changes

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday November 25, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on the next passage of Luke, the Annunciation to the Mother of God Mary, with special attention on Jacob's Ladder (Genesis 28), Conception of Samson (Judges 13), Isaiah 64, Galation 4 and 1 John 3. This is further understanding of angels and the power of God.

These are the readings appointed for the Annuciation to Mary during the preparation period for Nativity in Malankara Syrian Church calendar year.

Angels Incense Rise

Angels Incense Rise To Get Our Attention

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday November 18, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on the beginning of Luke (with discussion of the beginning of 2 Peter, Ephesians 5, Genesis 17, Numbers 8 and 1 Samuel 1) with explanation of angels and prayers for incense.

These are the readings appointed for the Annuciation to Zechariah, the preparation period for Nativity in Malankara Syrian Church calendar year.

Every Place You Are The Temple

Every Place You Are The Temple

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday November 11, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on Hebrews 9, Acts 7, and Isaiah 55 - inspired (as always) by the Gospel: John 10:22-28 - this sermon deals the physical temple and our spiritual transformation.

These are the readings appointed for Hoodhosh Eetho (Sunday of Church Dedication), at the beginning of the Malankara Syrian Church calendar year.

Baptism of Lydia

Baptism of Lydia

Homiletic sermon delivered Saturday November 10, 2007 by Fr John Brian at
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

On the occasion of the baptism of the infant Lydia, focusing on the scriptures appointed to be read at the baptism of a daughter (end of John Chapter 3 and end of Galations Chapter 3) as well as the story from Acts 16 about Lydia in Phillippi.

Man Building God Building

Man Building God Building


Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday November 4, 2007 by Fr John Brian at
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

This could also be named: Stones, Angels, Blocks and Pillars

Focusing on the end of Exodus, Isaiah 6:1-8, Matthew 16:13-23, 1 Peter 2:1-12 (with some verses from 1 Corinthians) - dealing with a suitable dwelling place for the Lord and the materials to build.

These are the readings appointed for Koodhosh Eetho (Sunday of Church Sanctification), the beginning of the Malankara Syrian Church calendar year.

Our Altar-native Opportunity

Our Altar-native Opportunity

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday October 28, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on Matthew 5:21-26 citing other scriptures readings for the day included (1 Peter 2, 1 Corinthians 6, Job 23, Exodus 12 and Isaiah 52), speaking of sacrifice at the altar and our brethren. Readings were appointed for the Last Sunday of the Holy Cross 2007.

A Charge Account With Interest - October 2007

A Charge Account With Interest

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday October 14, 2007 by Fr John Brian at
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on begining of Matthew 23 and the end of 1 Timothy (which reflects the entire epitsle teaching) which is a charge of great interest to Orthodox Christians. Readings are appointed for the 5th Sunday of the Holy Cross.

God Knows Hearts God Loves - October 2007

God Knows Hearts God Loves

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday October 7, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Focusing on the end of Luke Chapter 16 and 1 Kings Chapter 8 with reference to appointed Psalm 42 - appointed for the 4th Sunday of the Holy Cross.

Light Crosses Dark, Life Crosses Death - September 2007

Light Crosses Life Crosses

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday September 30, 2007 by Fr John Brian
at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin - on the occasion of Meskel (Holy Cross) festival.

Focusing on Romans Chapter 8 and a passage from Matthew Chapter 5 and other scriptures appointed for the 3rd Sunday of the Holy Cross.

Together With God - September 2007

Together With God

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday September 23, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the 2nd Sunday of the Holy Cross: 1 Kings 3:5-9, Isaiah 48:12-16,
Act 5:17-32, I Corinthians 2: 14-3:9 and St. Matthew 16-5-12

As Time Runs Out, Happy New Year

Loving Enemies Among Us

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday September 16, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the Sunday of the Holy Cross
I Corinthians 2: 10-16 and St. Mark 13: 28 -37

Loving Enemies Among Us - September 2007

Loving Enemies Among Us

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday September 9, 2007 by Fr John Brian
at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the 4th Sunday after Assumption of St. Mary: Beginning of Book of Job,Isaiah 1:15-20; Beginning of Chapter 2 of Peter's First Epistle, End of Chapter 3 of First Corinthians; and End of Matthew Chapter 5.

Dear Sweet Unlovable You - September 2007

Dear Sweet Unlovable You

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday September 2, 2007 by Fr John Brian at
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the 3rd Sunday after Assumption of St. Mary: End of Ezekiel Chapter 18; Beginning of 2 Corintians Chapter 10; Beginning of James Chapter 5; and End of Matthew Chapter 17.

People with true faith persevere

This is a very good insight on the question of faith and works, regarding Mother Teresa's faith crisis, in our local paper.

peace, love and light in Him - Fr John Brian, Holy Transfiguration Mission, Madison, Wisconsin

 

 

http://www.madison.com/wsj/home/column/index.php?ntid=207274&ntpid=1

 

People with true faith persevere

Bill Wineke 608-252-6146
August 27, 2007

Wisconsin State Journal (MADISON) The big religion news over the weekend is the revelation that Mother Teresa, the "Saint of Calcutta," had an ongoing crisis of faith.

"I have no faith. I dare not utter the words and thoughts that crowd my heart and make me suffer in untold agony, " she wrote at one point.

Mother Teresa, who died in 1997, would have celebrated her 97th birthday Sunday had she lived. She spent most of her life in Calcutta, working with the poorest of the poor and tending to those dying on the streets. She is now under consideration for sainthood.

Since most of us look to her as the epitome of faith, a woman who gave up everything material to care for God 's poorest children, the apparent fact that she had grave doubts even to the existence of God is, initially, staggering. Why would anyone do that kind of work if she didn 't have faith?

It 's the wrong question.

Mother Teresa worked with the poor because she believed that 's what God had called her to do. The fact that she didn 't always believe in God and didn 't always believe that her life had a purpose was, in some ways, irrelevant.

True faith isn 't a happy assurance that everything is proceeding as it ought to proceed. If you really feel that God is at your side sustaining your every move, then it 's relatively easy to suffer hardship and pain.

True faith comes more from a place in the soul that keeps you doing what you must do, even as every fiber of your consciousness rebels.

It doesn 't take a Mother Teresa to exercise that faith. We see it displayed in parents of severely brain-damaged children. We see it in the witness of parents who remain in loveless marriages in order to raise their children. We see it in people who struggle with cancer or other dread diseases, enduring months of chemotherapy and drug trials that, in the long run, may prove futile.

Do we really think it is easy for these people? Do we think they never succumb to doubt and despair?

Hardly.

If Mother Teresa didn 't have a crisis of faith, she would have had to be blind or totally unfeeling. All around her, every day, she saw incredible suffering, pain and neglect. Often, the best she could do for the people she was sent to serve was to help them die in peace.

Do we really think she could end each day with a song in her heart?

She wasn 't blind.

One problem we have when we attribute super faith to those who do good works in spite of material obstacles is that we take ourselves off the hook. We assume it is easier for the Mother Teresas and the other "saints " of the world to face temptations, heartaches and betrayals than it is for us because they have such "faith. "

Probably not so. They contend with the same doubts, fears and despair that we do. The difference between them and us is that they keep on trucking.

The important thing about Mother Teresa and about all those like her who persevere in the face of doubt is that she did what she believed she was called to do, even without the reinforcement of the faith we all believed was her foundation.

"Give God permission to use you without consulting you, " was one of her favorite admonitions.

That 's actually what real faith is all about.

Living a Problem - August 2007

Living a Problem

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday August 26, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the 2nd Sunday after Assumption of St. Mary: Genesis 6:3-12; Ecclesiastes 7:1-7; Psalm 12:1-7; 2 Peter 3:8-14; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11; Luke 11:9-10

perpetrators need victims? victims need perpetrators?

[written in response to a priest's commentary about the growing culture of victimhood and its impact on families, including divorce]

 

Dear Father,

 

While it seems obvious to me that victim/perpetrator models fall short of the glory of God, it is clear that evil is committed and needs to identified for safety.  One problem of the victim mentality that you have brought up is that perpetrators need victims; victims need perpetrators. Not to get too fundamental, but to have a victim mentality, one must have perpetrator(s) and visa versa.  Some have used that sympathetic stance for political and personal gain.  These, I think you would agree, need to be distinguished from those that have been injured and require our help.  Not an easy task at times.

 

The Gospel model (as I have witnessed in the Orthodox Church) is one where everyone is a victim of everyone's sin - so everyone is a perpetrator and everyone is a victim.  That is, we are in this together - whether we like it or not.  However, we can only tend to our own hearts to increase Godliness in this world. 

 

What do you call a victim that gets revenge on a perpetrator?  A perpetrator.  The prisons are full of them.  Alice Miller wrote about how a culture breeds violence by caning a child and, when they get old enough, give them the cane.  So it is with all harming behaviors and attitudes.

 

At the same time as we engage the gospel model, it seems like common sense that we need to be able to protect the innocent and those already injured from further harm.  Certainly, bringing to light the ugliness of the harm we are capable of inflicting upon each other may cause the moral to choose less violent ways, but it does not cure.  Only the love of God cures what ails our distorted mangled human existence.  For that, would anyone defer receiving God's love to insist that a perpetrator receive earthly justice? Yet none of us (I would hope) would hesitate in stopping a young child from running after a ball into a busy street.  So, it seems the emphasis should be on "making" less victims by looking out for each other, protecting those that are weaker, and giving less reason for perpetration of harm in the first place.  Idealistic, sure, but also possible.  The wise sage, Bill Cosby, once said, "Love is the only thing that, when divided, multiplies."

 

The dedication of the spiritually-minded among us to their nearly singular focus on God's mercy on THEM as sinners seems to move away from the victim mentality and toward doing what is true and good. Everyone deserves forgiveness and God's mercy. But we must individually request it - that is, we must become conscious of our need for it.  If any one of us does not deserve forgiveness and His mercy, then none of us can claim it and Christ died for nothing.  For who decides who can be excluded?

 

How do we know when a perpetrator is forgiven?  We can ONLY know if we have forgiven THEM.  As we pray, "Forgive us our debts AS WE HAVE forgiven our debtors."  It seems that we can recognize how much we have been forgiven by our own capacity to forgive.  Yet, I hardly see any substantive debate about who has forgiven more or who has forgiven the worse.  Didn't Christ emulate this for us on the cross?

 

If someone was a victim of an automobile driving through a stop sign, it would be foolish for anyone to believe that forgiveness would prevent such a horrible event from happening to anyone else.  Yet, with forgiveness, there can be a lighter more loving heart with the one who now looks both ways when crossing an intersection, even at a stop sign.  With repentance, there can be one less inattentive driver.  With education and learning from others mistakes, less pedestrian victims over all.

 

Father, your posts have certainly gotten me thinking about a complex issue in our society. Thank you.  I hope I have added to what may be an important discussion for all Orthodox Christians in modern society.

 

So, the martyrs were victims, right?  

 

 

Fr John Brian

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

Madison, Wisconsin ~ 608.236.9622

http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/

www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

******* LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY By Fr. John-Brian Paprock look for it on Amazon.com *******

 

Living A Transfigured Life - August 2007

Living A Transfigured Life
Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday August 12, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the Sunday after Transfiguration: Deuteronomy 25:13-16; End of Phillipians 4; Matthew Chapter 21:28-32

As Little Ones Enter - August 2007

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday August 5, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost: End of Exodus Chapter 15;
End of the Book of Job; End of Romans Chapter 10; Beginning of Matthew Chapter18

Greatest Humility - July 2007

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday July 29, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the Ninth Sunday after Pentecost: * Proverbs 13:1-7; *Pslams 22:1-21; Isaiah 24:1-5; *I Corinthians 6:1-11; Luke 14:7-11 - sermon is a little longer than others, but a lot of scripture considered

Mystery and Power of Holy Communion - July 2007

Mystery and Power of Holy Communion

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday July 22, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the Eighth Sunday after Pentecost: * Jeremiah 7:21-25 * I Peter 2: 4 -10 * Hebrews 4: 14-5: 5 * St. John 6 : 47 - 59

Satan Will Not Stand - July 2007

Satan Will Not Stand
Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday July 15, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy
Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.
Scriptures : End of Mark Chapter 3 and end of Chapter 57 of Isaiah. For further elucidations and conclusions from this sermon read Ephesians Chapter 2, especially towards the end about breaking down the walls and what is the result...

Crisis of Faith and Hunger - July 2007

Crisis of Faith and Hunger
Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday July 8, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.
Scriptures : End of Matthew Chapter 15 and Chapter 8 of First Cornithians.

Apostolic Love - July 2007

Apostolic Love

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday July 1, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures for the Festival of the Holy Apostles: 2Cor 12:28-13:10, Acts 1:12-14 and Luke 6:12-31.

Register for annual Christian meditation retreat today!

Less than one week left to register!
We need to know if you're coming for proper accommodations by July 5th

DEVELOPING A SENSE OF THE SACRED
MEDITATION PRACTICES OF THE CHRISTIAN EAST

PRAYER & MEDITATION RETREAT ACCORDING TO EASTERN CHRISTIAN TRADITIONS
Led by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Priest, Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Director, Inroads Ministry
over 25 years of service to spiritual renewal and recovery
WWW.MARUROOPA.BLOGSPOT.COM

JULY 13 & 14, 2007
Friday, 7pm - 9pm & Saturday, 9am - 3pm

Pre-register by July 5, 2007
608-236-9622 ~ transfiguration@usa.com
+ + +
$115 single occupancy room; $105 double occupancy room; $50 Saturday only
includes rooms Friday night, meals Saturday and $25 donation
Make checks payable to
INROADS, P. O. BOX 5207, Madison, WI 53705

RETREAT WILL BE HELD AT
DeKoven Center ~ Taylor Hall
600 21st Street
RACINE, WISCONSIN

OPEN TO ALL - limited enrollment - MORE INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE
please contact us for any special needs or directions

The Ministry of Reconciliation(in the feeding of 5000 and the story of Ananias) - June 2007

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday June 24, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.
Scriptures: 2Cor 5:14-20 , Acts 9:10-18 and Luke 9:10-17.

The Ministry of Reconciliation - June 2007

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday June 24, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin. Scriptures: 2Cor 5:14-20 , Acts 9:10-18 and Luke 9:10-17. 30 minutes, 36 seconds

Father and Son - June 2007

Father and Son - Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday June 17, 2007 (US Father's Day) by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin. Reflecting on the John chapter 6, Galations Chapter 6 and Daniel Chapter 3.

Of Lions and Wolves - June 2007

Of Lions and Wolves

Apostolic homeltic sermon delivered Sunday June 10, 2007 by Fr John Brian at
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin. Reflects on the story of Daniel and the lion's den and its revelance on the 2nd Sunday Pentecost

Filled for the Journey - June 2007

Filled for the Journey

Post Penecost sermon delivered Sunday May 27, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Living The Spiritual Life - Penecost 2007

Living The Spiritual Life - Penecost sermon delivered Sunday May 27, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

The cross IS an Ascension symbol - May 2007

This short sermon gives insight into the ancient traditions of the altar cross and the cross atop churches and then brings this to personal spiritual development. Ascension sermon delivered Sunday May 20, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin. Inspired by the Zuhoyo (procession with the cross) at Holy Ascension.

upcoming retreat

DEVELOPING A SENSE OF THE SACRED

~ + ~

MEDITATION PRACTICES OF THE CHRISTIAN EAST

PRAYER & MEDITATION RETREAT ACCORDING TO EASTERN CHRISTIAN TRADITIONS

Led by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock

Priest, Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Director, Inroads Ministry

over 25 years of service to spiritual renewal and recovery

WWW.MARUROOPA.BLOGSPOT.COM

JULY 13 & 14, 2007

Friday, 7pm – 9pm & Saturday, 9am – 3pm

Pre-register by July 5, 2007

608-236-9622 ~ transfiguration@usa.com

+ + +

$115 single occupancy room; $105 double occupancy room; $50 Saturday only

includes rooms Friday night, meals Saturday and $25 donation

Make checks payable to INROADS, P. O. BOX 5207, Madison, WI 53705

RETREAT WILL BE HELD AT

DeKoven Center ~ Taylor Hall ~ 600 21st Street

RACINE, WISCONSIN

OPEN TO ALL

- limited enrollment -

MORE INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE

please contact us for any special needs

Proving and Improving - May 2007

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday May 13, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin. Scriptures: end of Luke Chapter 9, the end of Hebrews Chapter 11 and the end of Chapter 4 of the first Epistle of Peter.

Recognizing Christ Everywhere - May 2007

Recognizing Christ Everywhere

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday May 6, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures: Luke Chapter 24 (the walk to Emmaus); beginning of Hebrews Chapter 11 and the end of the first Epistle of John.

Searching Hearts - April 2007

Searching Hearts

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday April 29, 2007 by Fr John Brian at
Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison,
Wisconsin.

Scriptures: Gospel of John end of Chapter 21 and Chapter 3 of the Epistle to the Hebrews.

Resurrection Continues Being Prepared - April 2007

Resurrection Continues Being Prepared

Homiletic sermon delivered Sunday April 22, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin.

Scriptures: Gospel of John beginning of Chapter 21 and the end of Epistle to the Ephesians.

No More Chains - Easter 2007

No More Chains - Easter 2007 sermon delivered after midnight, Sunday April 8, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin.

April Fools Hosanna - April 2007

April Fools Hosanna - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, April 1, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the readings for Palm Sunday from John Chapter 12 with verses from Romans Chapter 8 and 1 John Chapter 5.

Praise to the Holy Trinity - a short reflection

Praise to the Holy Trinity

a short reflection

by Fr John-Brian Paprock

End of Lent 2007

 

Praise to the Holy Trinity

Praise to God in the fullness of His appearance to us

 

Thrice Holy - Triune God

 

Three in one - One in three

One God in three persons - three facets of the most precious gem

 

 

1 John 5:7-8 (Lamsa translation of the Peshitta)

For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one.

And there are three that bear witness, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood, and these three are one.

 

 

Without the Trinity, there can be no Son - no Jesus Christ - no manner for God to become man and show us the way.

Nothing defines more completely than the Holy Trinity - for in this is the Creator, the Incarnation and the Continuing Presence.

We praise the Trinity threefold to clarify our witness - the testimony of three is the biblical standard for Truth.

 

And yet, as much as the Trinity is God experienced and witnessed, it is only the closest construct for us to know the Infinite, the Omniscient, the Omnipotent, the Omnipresent. God is indeed a Trinity and so much more beyond our comprehension.  So, three-fold prayers of any words (whether "Lord, have mercy" or "Praise to the Holy Trinity" or "Hallelujah") call to mind the Trinity.

 

We confirm our prayers with a seal of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  The bishops and priest bless with the Cross that vehicle for our salvation - three times three - in the Holy Trinity.

 

God has given us to know Him as the Father, the Creator of everything

God has given us to know Him as the Son, Jesus, the Bringer of salvation

God has given us to know Him as the Holy Spirit, the Giver of life 

 

By the Holy Trinity, all of our Holy Tradition is confirmed, our places of worship are consecrated, and each of is baptized and sealed.

 

Every time the Holy Trinity, or even a three fold prayer, we are to throw our beingness into the presence of God who has relationship with us in body, mind/soul and spirit.  We need to be images of that divinity as we invoke His very presence at every trinity uttered and every praise sung aloud or and every mercy whispered in meditation. 

 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
6205 (2) University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705
608.236.9622  www.maruroopa.blogspot.com
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Top Spiritual Site Award 2005  by spiritandsky.com

Blind Generosity - March 2007

Blind Generosity - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, March 25, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Based in part of John chapter 9 and verses from 1 Corinthians

Jesus Prayer - Mor Isaiah the Hermit

Meditative Prayer to Jesus
Mor Isaiah the Hermit

Oh my Lord Jesus Christ, show me Your mercy.
Oh my Lord Jesus Christ, have compassion upon my misery by Your mercy.
Oh my Lord Jesus Christ, forgive all my transgressions by Your mercy.
Oh my Lord Jesus Christ, keep me away from all evil deesires and foul
thoughts.
Oh my Lord Jesus Christ, make me a faithful servant of Yours.
Oh my Lord Jesus Christ, lead me to the haven of life.

Oh Jesus my Beloved, increase my faith, confirm me in hope, and kindle in my
heart the fire of love.

Oh Jesus my Beloved, adorn my soul with temperance, humility and patience,
and my mind with knowledge, wisdom and perception.

Oh Jesus my Beloved, fill me with Your love and the love of neighbor, for
the sake of her whom You chose to be Your holy Mother, and for the sake of
all the holy fathers.

Amen

Source: www.ruhosuryoyo.org (site no longer active)

Jesus Prayer

From: Fr Jose Thomas
Sent: Sunday, March 25, 2007 6:46 PM

Jesus Prayer (Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner)
is a very ancient accepted personal spiritual prayer. It reflects the art
of prayer of the Eastern Orthodox Churches. "Philokalia" mentions about
Jesus Prayer. Isaac of Nineveh exhorts us to destroy the evil in the name
of Jesus. "The Way of Pilgrim" is a classic work on Jesus Prayer.
(Ramakrishna Mission has published the Malayalam version of "The Way of
Pilgrim" - Oru theerthadakante Sancharam)

This book gives the entertaining tale of a pilgrim who wanted to know how
one can pray ceaselessly as St. Paul says (1 Thess.5: 17- "Pray without
ceasing"). An Abbot leads him to the "Jesus Prayer." The book tells of
his travels through Russia. Each new stop becomes a home for a moment for
this happy wanderer who has only a knapsack - copy of Philokalia, Bible
and a few crusts of bread -, but who finds goodness and plenty wherever
he goes.

This prayer was taken from Mark 10:47, Bartimaeus' prayer to Jesus
Christ: "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me." However, its origins go
back to the Old Testament belief that the Names of God carried Divine
energy. This belief was carried forward by the first Christians' feeling
about the name of Jesus (Jn. 16:23-24; Acts 4:10). Also, the early
Christian monks who went out into the desert to live and pray in the
second through the fourth centuries had a preference for short,
repetitious prayer (monological prayer). Orthodox Churches have looked to
these Desert Fathers as a major source of spiritual wisdom. A favorite
repetitious prayer of these monks was "Kyrie eleison" (Lord, have mercy).
By the sixth century, the statement of the tax collector in Lk. 18:13
became the basis of the prayer. "God, have pity on me, a sinner."

Form and Method: A word or group of words is selected, usually with the
aid of an elder. Often, only the name of "Jesus" is used. The most widely
accepted form is: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a
sinner." Some use only the words: "Lord, have mercy." Select a phrase or
words to use. Then repeat the phrase over and over again with a rhythm of
our breath. Try to continue this practice for a period of time: for
example, five minutes, then ten minutes, then twenty minutes, etc. Rosary
can be used in the prayer. It becomes the part of our heart, through
continuous practice. Finally we will recite this prayer with every beat
of the heart. Really it is an indefinable heavenly experience.

Jesus Prayer is very common in Ethiopia, especially in the Holy Liturgy
of Ethiopian Orthodox Church. They recite the Jesus Prayer in Geez (the
liturgical language of Ethiopian Orthodox Church): Egzio maharena Krestos
(O Lord Christ, have mercy upon us). Other monological prayers are:
Be'enta Maryam maharena Krestos (For the sake of Our Lady Maryam, Christ
have mercy upon us) and Kyrie eleison.

In his work "Rajayoga," Swami Vivekanada explains the Indian method of
monological prayer. It explains the yoga sutra of Patanjali. This book is
very helpful to practice ceaseless prayer. We can practice the Rajayoga
with Jesus Prayer or Kyrie eleison.

Fr Jose Thomas Poovathumkal
St Frumentius Theological College
Tigray, Ethiopia.

Better Than a Donkey - March 2007

Better Than a Donkey - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, March 18, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing on the Lenten readings from Luke 13:10-17 and Romans Chapter 12.

Birthright Salvation? - March 2007

Birthright Salvation? - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, March 11, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA.

Carried and Forgiven - March 2007

Carried and Forgiven - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, March 4, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel reading from Mark 2:1-12 with verses from Romans Chapter 5.

This recorded sermon is extemporaneously given.

Our Divine Purpose in Lent - February 2007

Our Divine Purpose in Lent - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, February 18, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing on the Prophecy of Isaiah (58:3-14) and the Epistle of St Paul to the Colossians (3:1-17) with a reference to Joel 2:12-14.

Extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures

Blessed is That Servant - February 2007

Blessed is That Servant - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, February 11, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel reading from Luke 12:32-48 with verses from James Chapter 3.

Fulfillment of Life - February 2007

Fulfillment of Life - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, February 4, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel reading from Luke 2:22-40 with a passage from Ephesians Chapter 3.

Nineveh - a Christian Refuge?

This bit of news is offered for our edification and contemplation, since we have just completed the three-day Fast of Nineveh and read through the story of Jonah - how he brought redemption to that Gentile kingdom,  even though Jonah himself did not believe they would repent.  Unlike Sodom and Gomorrah, the Ninevites were given the prophet and repented.  And, although it has been through a turbulent history, Nineveh still exists and has been allowed, perhaps through the very mercy of God, to be a help to those in trouble. Reading through some news articles, I came across this wondrous development.  Centuries and centuries after Jonah was sent by God for the redemption of Nineveh, it may become a refuge for Christians.   

 

"Several Christian parties recently introduced an unusual bill in the regional parliament in Arbil, the Kurdish capital. They proposed the establishment of a Christian autonomous zone in the eastern portion of the Iraqi province of Nineveh, the traditional homeland of Assyrian Christians and now partly controlled by Kurdish Peshmerga fighters. Under the bill, the Chaldean, Syrian and Assyrian Christian minorities would be granted official status under the constitution -- first by the Kurdish regional parliament and then by the National Assembly in Baghdad."

[source: "Fighting for Their Survival: A Christian Exodus from the Arab World"  Spiegel Online - January 10, 2007, 05:09 PM http://www.spiegel.de/international/spiegel/0,1518,457002,00.html - Translated from the German by Christopher Sultan.]

Nineveh, a refuge for Christians?  We, in the Oriental Orthodox tradition that has kept the tradition of this fast, should not be surprised, but glorify the God of Israel that sent a prophet to the enemies of Israel for the their redemption - and ours.  It should be of great comfort that Christians would also be considered Ninevites as we have all been called to take refuge in Nineveh every year.  Let us pray for success of these efforts in Kurdish Iraq. Let us pray for Nineveh - and the Ninevites.  

 

your servant,

 

Fr John Brian

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin

Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622

http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/

www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

*****************************************

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY

By Fr. John-Brian Paprock

www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Buy the book and help the mission effort

*****************************************

R U Ready for a Holy Task - December 2006

Are You Ready for a Holy Task - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, December 17, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of the dream of Joseph - Matthew Chapter 1:18-25 and St Paul to the Galations Chapter 1: 11-24 and 1 Peter 2:11-17.

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures.

Refusing to See Divinity - January 2007

Refusing To See Divinity - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, January 28, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA.

Focusing of the Gospel reading from Mark 6:1-6 with a passages 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4 and James Chapter 5.

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures.

Illumination of the Faithful - January 2007

Illumination of the Faithful - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, January 21, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA.

Focusing of the teaching of Jesus Christ given to Nicodemus in Joh Chapter 3 with a passage from the beginning of 1 Corinthians Chapter 4.

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures.

Call to the Fullness of God - January 2007

Call to the Fullness of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, January 14, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of the Baptism of Jesus Christ by St. John the Baptist. One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures.

Theosis and Nativity - a very special message - January 2007

Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet (Holy Nativity celebrated by Habisha parishioners) by Fr John Brian on January 7, 2007 recorded at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin USA

Another Chance to Bear Fruit at the End of 2006

Another Chance to Bear Fruit - a sermon at the end of 2006, recorded December 31, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin USA focusing primarily on Luke 13: 6 - 9 and St Baselios the Great

The parable in Luke is unusual and is appointed to be read the evening of the secular new year, during vespers. It poses several questions about being fruitful....

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures (and, in this case, printed prayers of the saint.)

R U Ready for a Holy Task - December 2006

Are You Ready for a Holy Task - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, December 17, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of the dream of Joseph - Matthew Chapter 1:18-25 and St Paul to the Galations Chapter 1: 11-24 and 1 Peter 2:11-17.

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the scriptures.

Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet

Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet (that is, Holy
Nativity celebrated by our African parishioners) by Fr John Brian on January
7, 2007 recorded at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
10 minutes, 37 seconds

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures.

Due to continuing technical difficulty between website and service at this
time, this sermon is only available for podcasting or download go to
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

"Theosis and Nativity - a very
special message given on Ledet " should be the top listed audio file.

All sermons can be downloaded - podcast at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

More sermons and articles are posted at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

*****************************************
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers
Or at a special price at www.lulu.com/transfiguration
Buy the book and help our mission effort
******************************************

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Another Chance to Bear Fruit at the End of 2006 - homiletic sermon Sunday December 31, 2006

Another Chance to Bear Fruit - a sermon at the end of 2006, recorded
December 31, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission)
in Madison, Wisconsin USA focusing primarily on Luke 13:6-9 and Saint
Baselios the Great

The parable in Luke is unusual and is appointed to be read the evening of
the secular new year, during vespers. It poses several questions about
being fruitful....

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures (and, in this case, printed prayers of the saint.)

Due to technical difficulty between website and service at this time, this
sermon is only available for podcasting or download go to
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

"Another Chance to Bear Fruit"
should be the top listed audio file.

All sermons can be downloaded - podcast at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

*****************************************

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html