Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Christmas Lump of Clay

Christmas Lump of Clay

Preparing for Holy Nativity, we ask God, who has done the extraordinary things with the ordinary, what may His purpose, His intention, be for us?

Even so, everything is done with our consent. The whole of the nativity story told over the weeks before the Holy Nativity are filled with the confrontation of God's plan and human consent.

"He calls us to be more of what we are," says Fr. John Brian. With our permission, He forms us into the true being we were created to be.

Romans 9:21 "Does not the potter have the power over his clay..." We consent to be that lump of clay. The best form is already present. It only needs to be brought forward, revealed. It is the best person we can be.

Mary is given an impossible idea - a virgin to give birth. It is a confrontation with an incredible notion: God will bring about the restoration of divinity in all of His creation through the consent of a young woman.

"Nothing is impossible for God," says Archangel Gabriel in the Gospel of Luke. Mary responds as a lump of clay, "Here I am...let it be to me according to your word." (Luke 1:38)

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, November 24, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Saturday, December 07, 2013

Ready to Listen

Ready to Listen

Preparing for Holy Nativity with Story of Zechariah, the father of St. John the Baptist (as recorded in Luke Chapter 1), are we listening?

In Holy Orthodoxy, the rules and fasts are not meant to create an atmosphere of failure. Rather, it is an understanding of our limits and knowledge that God does not have our limitations.

The rituals and festivals of Holy Orthodoxy are intended to bring us closer to God.

"We are limited," says Fr. John Brian in this sermon, "but God calls us beyond our limits - nothing beyond our ability to move closer to God."

Fr. John Brian also examines the ability of Zachariah to listen to the angel who visited him. Zachariah could only hear the news through all his limitations. We need to listen to the urgings of God outside these limitations - for with God all things are possible.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, November 17, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
LISTEN ON-LINE HERE:

Friday, November 29, 2013

Great is This Mystery

Great is This Mystery

"Truly great is this divine mystery of righteousness..." 1 Timothy 3:16

Fr. John Brian's mentor Archbishop John passed from this earthly existence on October 26, 2013. This sermon includes tribute and reflections on "Bishop John."

As Fr. John Brian relates, "He helped me understand the importance of Orthodox ministry in this world."

This is tied into the Gospel reading from Matthew 5 and 1 Timothy Chapter 3.

"Mystery is profound understanding that we are inadequate to comprehend all of what God is and all of what God does.... IN the sacraments of the Church, we participate in this [divine] mystery.... This mystery is revealed to us in the flesh." Listen to more of Fr. John Brian says in this sermon

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, October 27, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
LISTEN ON-LINE HERE:

Thursday, November 21, 2013

The Kingdom of Heaven is for Children


The Kingdom of Heaven is for Children
 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock
 
From the Sermon delivered Sunday, July 28, 2013 at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin
 

photo by JBP 2013 - all rights reserved
In the Gospel of Matthew Chapter 18, there is a simple little moment when Jesus talks about children. He talks about children and about us the same way.
 
He says, “truly I say to you...” and whenever He says “truly” in the Bible that means “pay attention, this is much more important than anything else.” He is also saying “truly” to say that it is of the truth.
 
In Matthew’s Gospel, He says, “Truly I say to you, unless you change, and become like little children, you shall not enter” you shall not enter, “the Kingdom of Heaven. And whoever, therefore, will humble himself like this little child shall be great in the Kingdom of Heaven. And he who will welcome one like this little child in my Name welcomes me.”

He is saying three different things here that I want to point out: two of which are about us, and one is about others. Notice that He doesn't take away, or suggest we treat other people differently than we would ourselves.

This first point that He makes is: unless we change and become like little children, we will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven. This idea of changing and becoming like little children is not easy. We know what it is to change and become adults. We know what it is to grow up, and we often have different experiences that tell us, or clarify for us - either through our society, our culture, or in our own lives. There's always this point at which we can say, “now I'm an adult.”

In America, we have a legal standing of adulthood, which is when one is eighteen years old.  But that's not necessarily the same thing as feeling like you're an adult, with all the responsibilities, living independently, and maybe even being married and having kids, etcetera, and etcetera.

Jesus says in Matthew, rather than grow up in this world and become an adult in this world, we need to change and become like little children. Little children are innocent, but they also have great joy as they live in the present moment. They're not worried about the future, and they don't dwell on the past.
 
So, to get to the Kingdom of Heaven, we have to be in the present. I have brought this teaching to you previously, which is the idea that we cannot meet God any other place than in this present moment. This present moment becomes precious full of life and spiritual goodness, and all the other things we seek. In other words, it is the time of Kingdom of Heaven.

And another place, early on in the Gospel, both John the Baptist and Jesus proclaim, “repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!” [Matthew 4:17, NCSB]. Repent, in Greek, means 'metanoia' which literally means “change your mind.” So, another translation could be: “change your mind, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.” And, as I have taught before, there is your hand. How close it is indeed.

The second thing that Jesus points out in the Gospel reading (as if it wasn't totally clear about what it means to become like a little child): “therefore whoever will humble himself like this little child shall be great in the Kingdom of Heaven.”
 
A little child is completely dependent upon others for everything. That is a humility that understands how dependent they are, and how precious the people around them help them. That's the humility that's being spoken of by our Lord. So again, this humility will make us great in Heaven.

What is meant by “great in Heaven?” When you're large in Heaven, you feel as though you are part of the entirety of everything. That you are one with God, and instead of just being a little small body that houses a little heart area, you become like a big cathedral that can be filled with God, filled with the Spirit. And that's what is meant by “great in the Kingdom of Heaven,” not that you have greatness like a king, a pope, or a president, but that you have greatness in a spiritual way. But you need to be humble like a little child.

The third thing Jesus teaches is related to other people.  Jesus says, “one that welcome this little child in my name welcomes me.” In other words, when we treat other people as though they are children in need of care, concern, patience, tolerance, love, and even guidance perhaps, we will find that we are actually not just treating them that way, and welcoming them, we are also welcoming Jesus.

Now often people say they don't want to welcome children because “child are noisy,” and they just don't want to be worried about children, and distracted by children. But what Jesus is saying is one who “welcomes one like this little child,” not that bad child behaviors are part of it at all. That means welcoming those people who are living the God-ward way.
 
Then He says, in Matthew’s account, another point which is similar: “and whoever misleads these little ones who believe, it would be better for them that [they just go basically die - my paraphrasing, of course].”  His point there is simply that the little ones and children need trust, they need to be in trustworthy places, and around trustworthy people.
 
So Jesus is saying that if you're not going to welcome them, then don't be untrustworthy. Don't mislead them. Don't let them believe things that aren't true. Take care of them, but, if you're not going to take care of them, then it is better that you just go away and die.

That seems kind of harsh, but then Jesus says something a little bit later to clarify this. In verse ten of Matthew 18: “See to it that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you, their angels always see the face of my Father in Heaven.”
 
So, for those who act in that way, and are able to humble themselves in that way, and if you welcome those who are like that, you will be able to see God in them. And angels, that is to say those powers that help us in our day to day activities, and those who intervene for us, can see God, and those people who humble themselves are like those little children with the face of God. And so in our welcoming of them, we will be able to see God clearly.

Then Jesus goes on to say, in verse eleven: “for the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.” And many people in America and in the world today, as they get older, becoming more adult, they lose the very thing that they need to be with God, which is a certain innocence, and humility.
 
God calls us to be in the present moment with Him; so we can have the joy, peace, well-being, and goodness that exists in the present moment with God, or Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. By doing so, by welcoming them, we also welcome God into our lives.

So here I am, a very weak and sinful servant of God who, of myself, am nothing. I understand the Spirit of God sustains me, and whatever ministry I am able to do is by the grace of God alone. This mission has been here all these years, by the grace of God, and it is God's mission. So I come before God, and ask, “God what is your Will? This is Your mission. Help me who am weak. Help me who am sinful. Help me who falls short of all the good things that You wish to do.”
 
And, very often, I hear a small voice that says, “be like a little child. Trust. Be innocent as best you can. Keep trusting in the way that a child trusts. And keep understanding that you are incomplete without God. You cannot do this alone. You cannot even live your life without God's help, let alone do any ministry, or any kind of good without His help.”
 
It comes down to a simple choice, am I willing to be with God in the present moment? Or do I give up God to be an adult in this world?

I think there may be a way to do both. But if it comes down to a choice between the two, we should always choose to be like a little child in the present moment, in the awe and wonder of what God has given to this world, both in His creation and to all of us. And be filled with His love by being in the present moment. Even as I say this, I can hear an echo of children giggling in the goodness of God’s love, because they're so willing to be in the present moment.

And so we are called by God to be as little children: to be with Him as His children; to view Him as Father; to be filled with His love. So that we may have joy and peace, and know that we are safe and sound as long as we trust in Him.
 
+ + + 

You Lack One Thing...

You Lack One Thing...

In Mark, Chapter 10, Jesus Christ is presented with the problems of those that want to follow Him, but do not. In this instance, the issue presented is wealth.

Fr. John Brian gives a homiletic sermon on the real issue of possessions and wealth, how it is a quick test of humility which is neded to follow.

It is our attachment to wealth, to things, that keep us bound to this world and unable to rise to heaven. But we are very attched to our things. Fr. John Brian brings the example of Papa Nicholas, a 19th Century Greek priest, who demonstrated great piety.

This episode to Jesus saying, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than a rich man to get to heaven..."
Of course, in Mark's version, an explanation of sorts is given by Jesus.

Then in the appointed Epistle, 1 Thessalonians, St. Paul exhorts us in chapter 4:3-4 - to "keep [our] possesions in sancitification and honor." Fr. John Brian helps us understand this and then compares sexuality to financial issues to help in our understanding.

"You are taught by God to love one another." 1 Thessalonians 4:9

"With God all things are possible." Mark 10

This is a sermon in continuation of the Syrian church's celebration of the Cross.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, October 20, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Thursday, November 07, 2013

Ransomed For All

Ransomed For All

From the Epistle of St. Paul to Timothy is a curious use of the word "ransom."

1Timothy 2: "...[God] who desires all should be saved [through one mediator Jesus Christ] who gave Himself as a ransom for all."

Usually a ransom is padi to a kidnapper or terrorist who make demands for something or someone held hostage.

Fr. John Brian takes this dramatic notion that a ransom was paid for us to give a short yet deeply and spiritually significant sermon about the special relationship we have with God.

This is a sermon in continnuation of the Syrian church's celebration of the Cross.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, October 13, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Thursday, October 03, 2013

Gebre Meskel and St. Gregory, Illuminator of Armenia

Gebre Meskel and St. Gregory, Illuminator of Armenia

Gebre Meskel = Ge'ez for Holy Cross - the designation of the festival of the exaltation of the cross. Fr. John begins this festival sermon by talking about the history of the "raising up of the cross" from its buried place in Jerusalem after almost three centuries. St. Helen the mother of Emporer Constantine secured the location and brought the cross to Constantinople.

It is a significant festival for Orthodox Christians full of symbolism, allegory and metaphor. The cross is no longer hidden. The symbol of torture and death has become the symbol for healing and life.

The glory of the cross is a major part of the Teaching of St Gregory the Illuminator, who is considered the father of the Armenian Church. He uses Psalm 117 where David refers to the "corners of the altar" as prophecy of the cross and its symbol for Christians.

In the sign of the cross is mercy and gratitude for us and the entire world. St. Gregory explains this symbol and its power. Fr John Brian gives and inspiration homiletic on this important writing from one of the Orthodox fathers and saints.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, September 29, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Making A Difference

Making A Difference

Fr. John begins by discussing the terrible news of shootings in America and about suicide. We need to get rid of evil-ness in us and around us, but also with compassion.

Then the sermon walks into Matthew Chapter 15, asking: what's more important - the tradition or the mercy and love of God?

Fr. John Brian challenges Orthodox Christians: "If we cannot be expressions of the mercy and love of God than tradition can do very little for us."

"We cannot just be a hollow continuation of a tradition or a language or a culture. That's not what we are called to be as Christians. We are called to be so much more."

We need to bring goodness into every area of our lives, putting aside all evilness.

The Holy tardition ought be an expression of the love and mercy of God in our lives.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, September 22, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Earthly and Worldly

Earthly and Worldly

Fr. John begins this sermon clarifying that the stories and festivals of Mary were scriptural in most of the Christian world - remaining among the scriptures of the Ethiopians. Orthodox traditions are based in Truth and the love of God.

There has been a basic dilemma, a challenge of "sola scriptura," within Holy Orthodoxy. It is the challenge of God's Creation and then incarnation and death of one fully God and fully human.

This sermon is ultimately about the discrepancy of living an earthly life but not the worldly things. (2nd Corinthians 10:3-4)

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, September 1, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, September 04, 2013

At the Door to Heaven

At the Door to Heaven

Fr. John Brian speaks in this sermon on an essential element in Syrian Christian Spirituality. It is in the words of Luke, Chapter 11:9-10.

He also speaks to an essential integrity of Christians. Also takes the opportunity to speak about Fatherhood. A full and inspirational sermon.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 25, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Kingdom of Heaven is a Mother

Kingdom of Heaven is a Mother

For the festival of the Falling Asleep of Mary; also called the Dormition and the Assumption, Fr. John Brian goes into the symbolism in our daily practical Orthodox Christian spirituality. He refers to Hebrews Chapter 9 to enhance the teaching of symbols in Christianity.

Mary, Theotokos, Mother of God, is a symbol of the church and the church ought to be a representation of heaven on earth, as our Holy Fathers in Orthodoxy have taught us.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 18, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Kingdom of Heaven is Being More Alive

Kingdom of Heaven is Being More Alive

For the mission festival of Transfiguration, Fr. John Brian gives an inspirational sermon on the epistle readings from 2nd Corinthians chapter 3 and James chapter 2.

Therein is the key to understanding what it is to be Christian. Christian spirituality and living requires faith and good works.

We need such trust of Christ toward God to know that our sufficiency is from God. And, we are called live that way - and be more alive.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 4, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, August 07, 2013

Kingdom of Heaven is for Children

Kingdom of Heaven is for Children

Today's sermon is about Matthew Chapter 18 where there is a recorded event where Jesus uses children among the crowd to emphasize an important lesson: the quality of children ought to emulated.

There is some variety of which qualities He was emphasizing, but one which is mentioned today is humility. But it is often overlooked that, in Matthew's gospel, it is not only the manner we approach the kingdom of heaven, but also how we should receive others.

Entering the Kingdom of Heaven is a present moment dilemma. As we grow up in the ways of the world, we lose the very things we need to know God and be with Him.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 28, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Kingdom of Heaven is a Garden

Kingdom of Heaven is a Garden

Three different parables about the Kingdom of Heaven are given in Matthew Chapter 13: field for harvest; the mustard seed; and leavening.

The beginning of our connectedness to God is a garden and its fruit, a place where life is allowed to grow.

Parables are filled with spiritual symbolism and moral lessons. Jesus taught in this way to ensure that person to person instruction, a certain connectedness, happened in Christian spiritual development.

Combining the lesson from St Paul's second Epistle to the Corinthians, Fr. John Brian moves us to greater closeness to that garden of truth and life and love of God.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 21, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Wednesday, July 10, 2013

See Through Glasses

See Through Glasses

On the day of the Holy Apostles, Fr. John Brian talks about seeing clearly and how some of us need help to see clearly.

The spiritual way to see clearly is through the eyes of God's love. This is given in the Fr. JOhn Brian's homiletic of 1st Corinthians chapter 13 - the "love" chapter.

This is another inspirational message of Orthodox Christian practical spirituality in the modern world.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 30, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Sunday, June 23, 2013

Spirit is God Life

Spirit is God Life

On the celebration of Penetcost, we celebrate the Holy Spirit descending upon the Apostles after the Ascension of Jesus Christ nearly 2,000 years ago.

But the Holy Spirit continues to descend even in this 21st Century. However, we believe it is a subtle a life itself.

Fr John Brian uses Pentecost to discuss the issues of the Spirit in this short inspirational sermon.

This is another inspirational message of Orthodox Christian practical spirituality.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 23, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Saturday, June 15, 2013

Christian in a one-day-sale society

Christian in a one-day-sale society

In Holy Orthodoxy, our festivals are never "only one day." Fr John Brian gives one explanation of our practices, reminding us it is better to be Christian that to make sure everyone else is Christian.

Fr John Brian uses a passage from the Gospel of Luke to remind us of Christ's presence in our lives and how to properly prepare for the visitation of the Holy Spirit.

This is another inspirational message of Orthodox Christian practical spirituality.

O Lord, help us to pace ourselves according to Thy kingdom to come and stay in the peace, love and awesomeness long after the festival has subsided.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 9, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Tuesday, June 04, 2013

gift of God keeps giving

gift of God keeps giving

What is a gift? What is the difference between a paycheck and a gift? between manipulation and gift-giving?

In Holy Orthodoxy, we know that we are given a gift from God that is greater than all the treasures of this world. Do we take this for granted? Are we grateful?

If we are not, we might throw the gift away. Amazingly, God keeps giving.

Fr John Brian uses a passage from the Epistle to the Ephesians, Chapter 2, to bring to our consciousness the magnitude of this precious gift.

This is another inspirational message of Orthodox Christian practical spirituality.

O Lord, help us to receive the great gift that God gives us. In humility, let us accept that gift in its fullness, moving aside all obstacles.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 2, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
LISTEN ON-LINE HERE:

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

the great work not completed

the great work not completed

Beyond the deceptive superficiality of this modern world, the seeds of creation still grow.

Even though, in Holy Orthodoxy, we take time to remember all those that came before us from Adam even into this present age, we believe and act like we are on our own.

Fr John Brian uses a short passage from the Gospel of John, Chapter 4, to bring us toward embracing life beyond the superficial, "reaping that which you did not sew," harvesting and partaking of the fruits of life everlasting, that is spiritual nourishment.

Fr. John Brian gives another inspirational message of Orthodox Christian practical spirituality.

O Lord, help us to the great work, laying aside all selfishness and superficiality, reaping the fields that have been waiting for our labor white as snow. Let us share in the nourishment of the fruits of life everlasting even as we do the will of our Creator.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, May 12, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Saturday, May 25, 2013

truth and convenience

truth and convenience

The world of humankind is full of distractions, distortions and deceptions. Fr. John Brian gives an inspirational message of Orthodox Christian practical spirituality.

Using Chapter 4 of Ephesians, Fr. John Brian helps us "untwist" the distortions of this world so that we may not be alienated from the life of God.

O Lord, help us to lay aside the old human dramas so that we may embrace the new human way of Christ, full of light, love and life everlasting.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in the continuing development of Christian spirituality .

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, May 12, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

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Tuesday, May 14, 2013

dying for believing

dying for believing

People are still dying for their faith in Christ. Jesus set the example. It is in dying that we are born into eternal life.

The challenge of modern martyrdom in placed firmly in the foreshadowing of the day of Hosanna. The ongoing violence and kidnapping of bishops in Syria is only the most recent.

So, if we are going to die for our faith, what is it that we actually believe? Is it worth dying for?

Fr John Brian delves into this important issue of Christian spiritual attainment.

Lord, give us spiritual integrity even as the martyrs.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian who continues to encourage us in continuing development of Christian spirituality .

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, April 28, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Friday, May 03, 2013

different than ourselves

different than ourselves

One of the greatest challenges of our technological age is the problems of other-ness that drive isolation even in the most crowded of cities.

It was also one of the paradoxes of Christianity: that salvation for all came from the people separated.

Jesus Christ challenged the idea of entitlement among the chosen over and over again, calling Christians to non-just love of enemies and persecutors.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan is a principle teaching of Christianity.

Fr John Brian teaches from this parable the need for all of us to reconstruct our judgment of whom should be helped and by whom. We should all be good neighbors even as we are considered different. We should all emulate the good Samaritan, who was not one of the chosen.

Lord, give us spiritual strength even as the Samaritan.

Fr. John Brian continues to encourage us in continuing development of Christian spirituality .

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, April 14, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Wednesday, April 17, 2013

spiritual effort is spiritual progress

spiritual effort is spiritual progress

There are disciplines that makes us. disciples of Christ. But we can so often lose focus on the next step that we can stumble.

Fr. John Brian continues to encourage continuing development of Christian spirituality by taking the next step forward.

Helps for our spiritual journey are available in the scriptures. Fr John Brian points out the help available at the end of First Thessalonians, encouraging the study of the entire chapter 5.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, April 7, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Tuesday, April 16, 2013

when does faith heal

when does faith heal

Using the stories of Christ healing the paralyzed from Mark Chapter 2, Luke Chapter 2 and John Chapter 5, Fr. John Brian gives a sermon on the powerful message of healing in the scriptures - showing that forgiveness is even greater than physical healing.

He then uses Ephesians Chapter 5 to show us the spiritual path to healing in Christ. Fr. John Brian's sermon focuses on this primary issue of Orthodox Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, March 31, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Saturday, April 06, 2013

keeping time and truth

keeping our own time in the truth

Keeping of calendars has always been primarily a religious task. Even with the disparity of Christian calendars, it is important for Orthodox Christians to follow whatever calendar approved by the collective instruction of their bishops - in obedience to the divinity of the apostles and apostolic succession.

The sequence of events from the beginning of the fast through Holy Week and Easter is understood to be divinely inspired - even when local traditions and customs may vary.

This gets to the core reason Orthodox Christians continue to participate in the Holy Church services - Holy Orthodoxy is known by the heart. It resonates with the inner core of each of us.

Fr. John Brian's sermon focuses on this primary issue of Orthodox Christian spirituality, using the time of year and the calendars to discuss the resonance of divine harmony in our hearts.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, March 24, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Saturday, March 23, 2013

love for all - the purpose of fasting

love for all - the purpose of fasting

The disparity of the dates of Easter between the two calendars is more than a month in 2013 (this year). But there is a shared time of fasting nonetheless.

Fr. John Brian's sermon uses Romans Chapter 13 and 14 to bring into focus the true understanding of the fast and the purpose of our struggle with purity as well as the work of goodness. In this, we can find the fullness of love.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, March 17, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Forever Life, Forever Priest

Forever Life, Forever Priest

Preparing for Easter, for the Resurrection of Christ, can be seen as a dress rehearsal for the forever life ahead of us. In Christ, we are given access to being with God always: to no longer be in separation from Him, to be at one with Him.

Fr. John Brian's sermon uses Herbews Chapter 7 to elucidate the mysterious character of Melchizedek and his place in our spiritual development as Christians.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, February 24, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Friday, February 22, 2013

Even Now, Prepared to Fast?

Even Now, Prepared to Fast?

How did we prepare to fast in the past? Are we ready to meet God as He created us to be? How do we yield everything to God's will?

We fast not by diet but by faith.

There was some technical difficulties with the recording, so Fr. John Brian's sermon ends abruptly, but not before a dynamic and seasonal lesson.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, February 17, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, February 06, 2013

Personal Knowledge of God's Will

Personal Knowledge of God's Will

Do we want to develop a solid, unwavering, consistent faith in God? How do we yield to God's will in EVERYTHING?

Truly, one who loves God wants to do His will, follow His direction and do the right thing. One who loves God wants to receive the greatest spiritual benefit from participating in God's way, His religion, His spirituality.

Fr. John Brian applies the gospel reading Luke Chapter 2 and identifies 4 people doing the will of God: Mary, Joseph, Simeon and Hannah. Perhaps their example and their story may give insight into our own personal knowledge of God's will for us.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, February 3, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, January 30, 2013

The Call to Christian Enlightenment - The Call of Baptism

The Call to Christian Enlightenment - The Call of Baptism


The special occasion of the baptism of the child of God, Sofiamaryam, enhanced the gospel reading from John Chapter 3; that is Nicodemus' inquiry of Jesus about baptism. (Photos of the baptism at our mission chapel will be posted at the mission blog soon.)

Fr. John-Brian uses the occasion, the gospel and the epistle (2 Cornithians) to bring into focus the reason for our baptism, even as infants - and the continuing call even into our modern age, especially as Orthodox Christians.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, January 27, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
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Friday, January 25, 2013

Continuing the Call of the Apostles

Continuing the Call of the Apostles

The original calling of the apostles echoes into the present time. Fr. John-Brian uses 1 Timothy, Chapter 4 to help in discerning that call in out modern age, especially by Orthodox Christians. Orthodox Christian Spirituality is based upon the calling that began at the Jordan River so long ago, saying "Come and follow me."

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, January 20, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Wednesday, January 09, 2013

Purpose and Blessing of Holy Water

Purpose and Blessing of Holy Water

A relatively short sermon given at the auspicious great blessing of water, Fr. John-Brian speaks about the reason for blessing water at all, its uses by Orthodox Christians and Holy Church. He also talks about why Orthodox Christian Spirituality uses outward expression to confirm divine Truths.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, January 6, 2013 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
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Thursday, January 03, 2013

God Like Us, God With Us

God Like Us, God With Us

I Corinthians Chapter 10:12-13

Continuing with the themes of recent weeks and the auspicious time, Fr. John-Brian gives an unusual perspective on the reasons for God's incarnation and our need for a savior in this present modern era.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, December 30, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for Fr. John Brian and for our mission and help us as you are able.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
LISTEN ON-LINE HERE: