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.

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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Unplanting the Seeds of Discontent

Unplanting the Seeds of Discontent

End of I John Chapter 4

In the wake of a tragic mass killing of children in Connecticut, Fr. John-Brian gives a sermon on the problems in our society that allow such circumstances that grow from the seeds of discontent.

He speaks to the problems of "grievance collection" and how close any of us may be to becoming such a tragic figure.

The answer is in a few verses appointed for the Sunday before Nativity from the 4th Chapter of John's First Epistle. Fr. John Brian concludes with a homily on those verses to guide us through the dark times.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, December 23, 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.

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Knowledge of Life Through Forgiveness

Knowledge of Life Through Forgiveness

Preparing for Holy Nativity
Zechariah Prophecy
end of Luke Chapter 1

Zechariah said, "and you shall give the knowledge of life through the forgiveness of sins."

I Peter 2:25 "...for all have gone astray like sheep."

The direct discussion of our human limitations and how we allow them to dominate our spiritual life; how we take comfort in living inside of limitations rather than go to the limit where we will meet God. Are we motivated to move beyond mistakes, failures and sins?

Through the mercy and kindness of God? perhaps.

Fr. John Brian also discusses the analogy that St. Paul uses in Galatians Chapter 4 to enhance our Orthodox Christian spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, December 9, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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How Love Dwells Within

How Love Dwells Within
Preparing for Holy Nativity
Mary Prophecy
Luke Chapter 1

Mary said, "He has filled the hungry with good things and has dismissed the rich, empty."

I John 3: "...how can the love of God dwell within him?"

The direct discussion of the problems of the rich and wealth as well as the poor and envy of wealth are discussed as a crucial part of Christian spiritual development in this commerce oriented materialistic time of year.

Fr. John Brian uses writings of St. John Chrysostom and 1 John chapter 3 to enhance gospel lessons from Luke.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, December 2, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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The Seed of God

The Seed of God

Preparing for Holy Nativity
Annunciation to Mary
Luke Chapter 1

"How can this be?
"All things are possible with God."

"The angel said, do not be afraid."

The metaphor of a seed is used to describe a crucial part in Christian spiritual development. Fr John Brian explores this metaphor and its vital spirituality.

Fr. John Brian uses Galatians 3 and 4 as well as 1 John 3 to enhance gospel lessons from Luke.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, November 25, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Keys to Orthodox Christian Spiritual Renewal

Keys to Orthodox Christian Spiritual Renewal
Renewal (Foundation) Sunday

Every day we are called to the spiritual life, but so often we take the spiritual gifts for granted. Sometimes we forget to partake of the spiritual nourishment available to us in Holy Church.

Fr. John Brian talks about spiritual renewal, using Luke 9:23-27 to bring to light keys for our continuing and aily renewal as Christ asks of us: "He who wishes to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross every day and follow me." (Luke 9:23)

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, November 11, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Voting for the Good

Voting for the Good
Sanctification Sunday

What does a major US election upcoming have to do with sanctification of the church? How are we to vote as Christians?

Fr. John Brian talks about the issues of good and evil, the importance of sanctification in this world, and the realities of living among human beings - all part of coming to an authentic spirituality of God's presence in this world, being truly Christian as Christ asks of us.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, November 4, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Removing Masks to See Clearly

Removing Masks to See Clearly

God is Already There, Part 5

"...anyone who says, 2018You fool!2019 will be in danger of the fire of hell."Matthew 5

What does Halloween and secular costume wearing have to do with eternal life and authentic sprituality?

Fr. John Brian gives another inspirational sermon of living in the authentic spirituality of God's presence in this world, continuing
themes of previous sermons.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, October 28, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Good and Wealthy

Good and Wealthy
God is Already There, Part 4

"There is no one good, but God." Luke 18
"It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle..."

What is true wealth? Is it our great obstacle to being with God always; to have eternal life?

Fr. John Brian gives another inspirational sermon of living in the authentic spirituality of God's presence in this world, continuing
themes of previous sermons.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, October 21, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Truly Ourselves With God

Truly Ourselves With God

God is Already There, Part 3

"He who would be greatest should be servant of all." Matthew 23

What is true humility? What is our great obstacle to being with God always?

Fr. John Brian gives another inspirational sermon of living in the authentic spirituality of God's presence in this world, continuing themes of previous sermons.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, October 14, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Continually With God

Continually With God

God is Already There, Part 2

Talking about the Sabbath, Jesus Christ makes a point about humanity and the Law as well as about the Lord of the Sabbath.

St Paul in Romans 8, makes the point thet we are not condemned for walking in the flesh.

Fr.. John Brian gives an inspirational sermon of living in the authentic spirituality of God's presence in this world that continues the themes of the previous sermons

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

Please pray for us and help us.

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God is Already There

God is Already There

In the view from God's perspective, He is always ready for us to be with Him. He waits for us to be with Him.

From our perspective, if we are trying to advance spiritually, we can feel that we are taking one step forward and two steps back.

Good news! God is already there!

Fr. John Brian gives an inspirational sermon of living in the authentic spirituality of God's presence in this world.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, September 23, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Taking Comfort in Forever

Taking Comfort in Forever

What does the enduring of the symbol of the cross mean? Perhaps it is only to remind us that forever is longer than a single human life in this world.

Fr. John Brian gives a sermon on the end of St Mark Chapter 13.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, September 16, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Love is Always Available

Love is Always Available

At the end of year in many cultures and in the church year, we remember Mary. We also confront the end and what separates us from God.

Fr. John Brian talked about God as Love and God as Fire. In this sermon, the last chapter of James is discussed in context.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, September 2, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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Asking for the Intercessions of Mary

Asking for the Intercessions of Mary

At this time of year, many parishes and individuals, prayer groups and missions of the Orthodox faith ask for the intercessions of Mary, Virgin-Mother of God, birthgiver of Jesus Christ the Saviour.

Fr. John Brian gave a sermon after such prayers on asking for the intercession of St. Mary - what we ask for and why we ask her.

To some it may appear that Orthodox are praying to St. Mary, asking her to fulfill prayers, but in Orthodoxy we are praying that she will pray (or intercede) for us or act on our behalf. This is similar to asking an elder, monastic, priest or bishop for their prayers.

In this short sermon, Fr. John Brian clarifies this act of prayerful faith.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 26, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please pray for us and help us.

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A Transforming Way

A Transforming Way

"...Now that we are children of God, we do not know what will become..." I John 3:2

After receiving the visiting bishop's blessing, Fr. John Brian gave a short sermon on St. Mary and St. John's first epistle (especially chapter 3). Part of that epistle is an appointed reading for the Sunday after Assumption.

In this short and inspirational sermon, Fr. John Brian talks about change and the changes every Christian should anticipate. Then, he speaks to the idea that there is a gentle transformation that we do not, or rather cannot, know because it is becoming everything we were created to be.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 19, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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Doing It Anyway

Doing It Anyway

"Which of these sons does the will of his father?" Matthew 21

With a rhetorical question, Jesus gives a lesson on how to follow God's will. In this sermon, Fr John Brian discusses 'lip service" and doing the work anyway.

In Matthew Chapter 21, Jesus also tells his followers that tax collectors and harlots will get to heaven before those that say they believe. How are they going to get to heaven before us?

Fr. John Brian speaks to the presented issues of today's lesson in spiritual development.

May the Lord have mercy on us that we may be as willing to reach for the kingdom of God as the repent tax collector and harlot and enter the kingdom of heaven, according to Christ Jesus.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 12, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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HOW to be as children to enter the kingdom

HOW to be as children

"Except you become as little children you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18

In this sermon, Fr John Brian discusses the lesson of Jesus Christ in Matthew CHapter 18, where He is asked, who shall be greatest in heaven?"

Jesus answers in an enigmatic and often quoted phrase - except you become as one of these young ones."

Fr. John Brian speaks to several spiritual principles of children that every Christian should seek to develop to become spiritually mature. This may seem a paradox; to become as a child to become spiritually mature. In this sermon, three key attributes of children are discussed along with two characteristics that are vital to the spiritual life.

May the Lord have mercy on us that we may be as children and enter the kingdom of heaven.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, August 5, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Humbly Exalted

Humbly Exalted

"He who exalts himself will be humbled; and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 14

Fr John Brian discusses humility and the lessons of Jesus Christ. In what may seem like a paradox or a play of words, there is a central pillar of the church and Christian spiritual development. Without this fundamental teaching, hypocrisy would run rampant through the hierarchy and among the followers of Christ - as they would say they believe but then act in non-belief.

Without humility, none of us could follow the way of Christ that was shown to the world 2,000 years ago and is still relevant today. Without humilty, we are easily manipulated and deceived due to our conceit.

May the Lord have mercy on us.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 29, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

God Knows How We Feel

God Knows How We Feel


Ever since the birth of Jesus Christ, over 2,000 years ago, the human-divine relationship has been forever changed.
Fr John Brian discusses our issues in context with God's incarnation and the willingness to demonstrate the divinity of human life despite the ravages of sin's distortion.

We are created in the image of God and, to fully realized as human beings, we must be willing to be that image in completeness. This can lead to some radical interactions with other human beings - also made in the image of God!

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 22, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Divine Image in Reflection

Divine Image in Reflection

Do we conform to the divine image in which we are created? Or do we try to conform God to our image of God?

Fr John Brian discusses the reality of the divine image and the human problem with being made in that image. Another inspirational sermon. This sermon refers to Ephesians Chapter 2.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 15, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Super Duper Human Power

Super Duper Human Power

What is the super power of humanity? The super duper power of each one of us?

This sermon reflection compares the super powers of the Apostles with our own super power. Fr John Brian discusses in a plain and inspirational manner, using a passage of 1 Corinthians to clarify.

Have you figured out what super power you already have?

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 8, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

God Dependency and Independence

God Dependency and Independence

As we reflect and remember the Apostles and their mission of the church, Fr John Brian discusses issues of clergy and laity, clarifying our complete dependence on God.

Another low key presentation that is instructional and inspirational - on a day that there is a solemn remembrance of one who has passed and the gospel lesson about miracle of the bread and fishes. Listen how these are brought together in another lesson in Christian spiritual development.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, July 1, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Rejoice in the Day the Lord has Made

Rejoice in the Day the Lord has Made

At this time of year, we reflect and remember the Apostles and the mission of the church.

In this low key inspirational and extemporaneous sermon , Fr John Brian reminds everyone of the very premise of mission and purpose in Christian spiritual development.

Fr. John Brian challenges listeners to live in the day the Lord has made and bring others to the ever-present love of God available every day.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 24, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Mercy From the Beginning - Retreat Talk

Mercy From the Beginning
Retreat Talk for Youth/Adult group

The theme for the 2012 annual retreat of the Kerala Christian Congregation of Minneapolis was Matthew 5:7 "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy."

Fr John-Brian was one of two presenters on the theme. On Saturday afternoon, he gave an extemporaneous talk "Mercy From the Beginning" from questions after the first talk.

Earlier, Fr John Brian spoke with the pre-teen group about mercy by going through the mercy demonstrated in the five parables of the first talk "Mercy Mercy"

This talk uses and refers to the scriptures and the church fathers. It was given on Saturday, June 16, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel in Madison, Wisconsin at the KCC of Minneapolis Annual Retreat in Amery, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Mercy Mercy - audio from retreat talk

Mercy Mercy - audio from retreat talk

The theme for the 2012 annual retreat of the Kerala Christian Congregation of Minneapolis was Matthew 5:7 "Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy."

Fr John-Brian was one of two presenters on the theme. On Friday night, he gave an introduction to mercy: "Mercy Mercy" which was accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation which is also available on-line:


http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2012/06/mercy-mercy-slideshow-of-retreat.html

This talk uses and refers to the scriptures and the church fathers as well as to an article by Fr. Thomas Hopko. It was given on Friday, June 15, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel in Madison, Wisconsin at the KCC of MInneapolis Annual Retreat in Amery, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Mercy Mercy - slideshow of retreat presentation

Mercy Mercy - retreat theme presentation by Fr. John-Brian Paprock

Given at Kerala Christian Congregation of Minneapolis Annual Reterat

Amery, Wisconsin - June 15, 2012

To listen to audio recording of two "Mercy Mercy " presentations
LISTEN ON-LINE
1. Mercy Mercy (recorded 06-15-12)
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2012/06/mercy-mercy-audio-from-retreat-talk.html

2. Mercy From The Beginning (recorded 06-16-12)
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2012/06/mercy-from-beginning-retreat-talk.html

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD either or both:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian
or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

iTunes: Now Available Two Books by Fr. John Brian

Fully Alive
by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
This book is available for download on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iBooks and on your computer with iTunes. Books must be read on an iOS device.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rev.-fr.-john-brian-paprock/id460397293?mt=11

Neighbors, Strangers and Everyone Else
by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
This book is available for download on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch with iBooks and on your computer with iTunes. Books must be read on an iOS device.
http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rev.-fr.-john-brian-paprock/id460397293?mt=11

Book Review: Living in the Eighth Day

Living in the Eighth Day (2006)
Google Books User Review
by Jarrod Ryder 
(note: The reviewer has disclosed that he is a member of Coptic Orthodox Church)

Fr John Brian Paprock is an American priest in the Malankara Syriac Orthodox Church [sic], who shepherds a mission parish of the Holy Transfiguration, Madison Wisconsin. Although he has been exposed to some of the great academic theological minds of our time, including Paulos Mar Gregorios (famous for his work on St Gregory of Nyssa's theology - Cosmic Man) he shows in this collection of homilies and pastoral recollections from the Church year a wonderful ability to communicate to all people.

Fr John-Brian Paprock's service should be interesting not only to Orthodox, but to people interested in religious studies in general because he represents a new trend in people seeking to know the mystical and ancient Christian faith of the early centuries in a contemporary setting.

Who would have thought, that amidst the mega churches of America with their modern innovations, people would begin to search for the heart of their historical faith and find it amidst a spiritual fountain of cultural and spiritual blessings from those ancient cultures that have preserved the original faith handed down via the apostles. I see many similarities in the experiences and message being promoted in the Church of the Holy Transfiguration to our small sister Church in Australia with the same faith and purpose, and it is a delightful read not only for its message(s) but also for an insight into a new breed of Christian mission that is older than the New Testament.

review originally appeared at this url:

http://books.google.com.au/books/about/Living_in_the_Eighth_Day.html?id=qtQQxsclsCQC&hl=en%2FV1%2Fpgcb1_2.html%3Fctid%3DCT2504091 

Essential Unity in Saintliness

Essential Unity in Saintliness

In the time of Pentecost, the church lessons are focused on mission, purpose and lives of the apostles and the saints.

Starting with Paul's words to the Ephesians (Chapter 2) about two becoming one, diverse becoming united through the Spirit.

In front of each of us is a saintliness we are called to fulfill. Fr. John Brian talks about the essential unity of Christian spirituality. Our spiritual development must meet the saints in the actions of our everyday life.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 10, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Holy Spirit Imitation

Holy Spirit Imitation

Holy Spirit Trust

The Holy Spirit has descended. The comforter has come. Now what?

The popular ideas of what is to happen are fantastic and supernatural. Beyond the natural world - Yes! But not always fantastic.

We are called to fulfill the ideal to which we were created - that we are created in God's image. It is only by the Holy Spirit that we are able to do what Christians are called to do - that which is un-natural or supernatural in the views of this world.

This world is either in awe or in disdain for our un-natural work of Christian spiritual development. It is entertained by the fantastic and revels in criticism when we are unable to live up to the lofty ideals of Christian mercy.

Fr. John Brian talks about the spirituality of the Holy Spirit using excerpts from Paul's First Epistle to the Corinthians.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, June 3, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Trusting the Trinity for the Summer Season

Trusting the Trinity for the Summer Season

Trusting God this Summer

Unofficially, the last weekend in May - Memorial Day Weekend - begins the three month summer season in America.

Public schools are nearly all let out and many of the seasonal activities begin: beaches open, campsites open, the big outdoors beckons all to a season of leisure and fun. Every family takes vacation during the summer. Many travel.

Coincindentally, two of the most important holy days usually end up being celebrated as this summer season begins: Ascension and Pentecost.

Fr. John Brian talks about how very important these holy days are for our spiritual development and discusses the spirituality of the Holy Trinity, giving a new perspective on the summer season.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, May 27, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin. Please, as you are inspired, pray for us and help us.

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:

Healing Ascension Deficit Disorder

Healing Ascension Deficit Disorder

40 days away from Easter, the Holy Resurrection of Jesus Christ, it seems so many Christians suffer from Ascension Deficit Disorder - either asking: where is Jesus? or what's the big deal about the Ascension anyway? But there is a cure. There is healing.

Fr. John Brian give the medicine of an inspirational homiletic on the first Chapter of Colossians to give an answer to the bigger questions of the importance of Ascension.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, May 20, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired to pray for us and help us, let us know your prayer needs during this auspicious time.

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:

Letting Go on Mother's Day

Letting Go on Mother's Day

Christ is risen!

There is a saying "By letting go, the whole world gets done."

Fr. John Brian weaves this saying with Mother's Day and what is important to hold on to during this special time of year - at the same time recognizing what we need to let go.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, May 13, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired to pray for us and help us, let us know your prayer needs during this auspicious time. Thank you for your prayers, especially for Fr John Brian.

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:

GIGO - God In God Out

GIGO - God In, God Out

Christ is risen!

GIGO is an old computer programming term that literally means: Garbage In, Garbage Out - that what you input is directly related to your output; computer programs will only give out what they are programmed to give out based upon what data is given.

In many ways, we created the computer in our own intellectual image. It is a reflection of how we think and what is most important.

In this inspirational sermon, Fr John Brian talks about GIGO, but suggests that Orthodox Christianity of the East has known this for two thousand years, but would interpret GIGO as GOD IN, GOD OUT.

This is what St Paul speaks of when he writes about the "new man." It is the "born again" answer given to Nicodemus by Jesus. And it the equivalent of the charge to "Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near!"

Fr John Brian gives examples of how the Orthodox Church has been practicing the GIGO principle through the centuries and how it applies to our modern spirituality.

This sermon uses and refers to scripture readings appointed by the Syrian Malankara calendar and was given on Sunday, May 6, 2012 by Fr. John-Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.

Please, as you are inspired to pray for us and help us, let us know your prayer needs during this auspicious time. Thank you for your prayers, especially for Fr John Brian.

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: