More Cross Purposes - sermon of Fr John Brian recorded September 24, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin - based on Matthew 16:5-12; Acts 5:17-32 and I Corinthians 2:14-3:9
Monday, September 25, 2006
Monday, September 18, 2006
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Silly Foolish Children of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, September 10, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish) that challenges: "IF YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD, THEN ACT LIKE IT." Based on the scriptures: 1 Peter 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23; Matthew 5:38-48
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Remembering 9-11
Remembering 9-11 - Five Years Later
An essay by Rev Fr John Brian Paprock
September 11, 2006
"Remember 9-11" seems less and less a battle cry five years later, even though it is still used in the bloodied rhetoric of politicians. Five years later, there is still real crying, real tears, hidden from public view. Families slowly living the rest of their lives without loved ones killed. It is expected that they still weep, but we are not inundated with their tears. In spite of the quiet heroics of everyday lives, image hungry media will seek those tears on this anniversary. But will images of their tears facilitate our own grief, our collective mourning? As this anniversary arrives, there seems to be stirring a conflicted inner struggle tucked away during the daily schedules of American work and family life. The numbing effect of information overload and anxiety of fear based scenarios distracts us from healing.
Many of us cry in remembrance, nonetheless. Hundreds of miles and hundreds of days from the events of 9-11, I cry. For a few years, in my youth, I lived and studied in 1980s New York City. I knew the City and, for that short time, I breathed the City. That single September day of 2001 changed everything. My heart sank as the second plane plowed into the World Trade Center on live television and it has not yet risen to the height it innocently and easily held September 10, 2001.
It became my pilgrimage to visit the hole, to make it more than a television screen that replayed the moments of impact. It was important to witness the result with my own eyes, to breathe the difference. When my wife, my son and I got to the place where once stood majestic titans, I couldn't help myself - I kept looking up in shock, whimpering "I can't believe they are actually gone. It is so empty." Others were looking through the fence into the rubble, into the hole. For me, the power of what happened was felt looking up at nothing. My family did not fully understand the many pictures I took of the sky above the fence line nor did they notice the way I held tightly to the fence as I pushed my face against a torn opening in the plastic that was draped loosely, looking at a flag draped coffin under a steel cross. How I needed that image to reassure me that God could be present even there, even then. Five years later, I have put away the photos - even as I admit the images are indelibly etched into my very being.
Tears are still falling not only for the catastrophic personal and individual losses of 9-11, but the loss of “America, the Invulnerable.” Fives years later, we also grieve the loss of “America, the Compassionate” and “America, the Merciful.” Some know these as attributes of God - but, until 9-11, many of us believed America held a special privilege of divine protection. Maybe she still does, but she does so despite the calls for violent retribution and the opportunities of blood soaked profits. Maybe God hears below the surface to our collective conscience, the part of all of us that knows what was done for a battle cry, that it needs to become a cry for forgiveness and humility.
If our losses could have ended on 9-11, five years later we could be healing at deep levels throughout our society. But our losses continue. The loss of life overseas, the loss of respect among the nations, the loss of security of our border, the loss of trust of our neighbors and each other are all hard losses to acknowledge. Adding salt to our wounds, our losses have been exploited and manipulated. Five years later, fear has come to dominate our collective grief. Instead of healing, fear keeps tearing at the scab as blood trickles from our woundedness.
I woke up crying for our losses that September day and those that linger to this day, this anniversary. It is not just a few buildings; for the rubble has been cleared and new structures have begun. It is not the people; for we all share the same end even if we do not share the manner of our departure (may God be merciful to all). What I truly mourn is the depth of our vulnerability exposed, the ease we have let blood flow in other lands, the reliance on the false security of vengeance, the exposure of untrustworthy guardians.
Perhaps, these dark things existed in our society all along and 9-11 became a light to expose our shortcoming and errors. Whether these are the details of our underbelly exposed or the errors of exploited fear, we are still accountable. It is not what happens to us, what others do to us, that will matter in the forever life as well as in the annuls of history. It is what we do, in spite of what happens to us; it is what we have done that will matter in the long run. There are dark principles that some would have us believe are filled with light. It sounds palatable when they say they stick to their principles - because we want to believe we share the same resolve.
However, we must be willing to examine the actions and outcomes of these darker principles. We need to have the courage to stand for peace in times of war, healing in times of woundedness, love in times of hatred, hope in times of distrust and disinformation. We need to embrace faith in the benevolence of God, who looked upon His creation in the beginning and saw that it was good. We need to act in charitable ways and in kind manners. We need to encourage constructive solutions and ideas that help us come together rather than rely on divisive and fear-filled rhetoric. We need to embrace the mercy of God with contrition and humility, with an understanding of our connectedness to even the least of us whether we lack in material sustenance, moral attributes, or spiritual wisdom.
If my spiritual ancestors of the Orthodox Christian Church knew the hour of our collective final judgment, they only said "Soon." Hundred of years have passed since, still the elders of our church say, "Soon." "Soon" has a double edged warning as it purposely lacks the defining attributes of precise digital time. “Soon” begs us to be prepared for the day of the Lord may be tomorrow, but act as if it were another thousand years away. In a fundamental and transcendent way, this reconciled manner of living with finality and eternity is our personal responsibility to God and our neighbors.
I reach out and pray to God to increase in our hearts a greater desire for peace with all people, that we may embrace our enemies and encourage our friends to greater acts of compassion, that we may be proved worthy of that blessed kingdom to come that has already been promised and stand assured on that day of God's love and mercy for all of us.
Five years later, I cry and remember 9-11.
(all rights reserved by the author - 2006)
An essay by Rev Fr John Brian Paprock
September 11, 2006
"Remember 9-11" seems less and less a battle cry five years later, even though it is still used in the bloodied rhetoric of politicians. Five years later, there is still real crying, real tears, hidden from public view. Families slowly living the rest of their lives without loved ones killed. It is expected that they still weep, but we are not inundated with their tears. In spite of the quiet heroics of everyday lives, image hungry media will seek those tears on this anniversary. But will images of their tears facilitate our own grief, our collective mourning? As this anniversary arrives, there seems to be stirring a conflicted inner struggle tucked away during the daily schedules of American work and family life. The numbing effect of information overload and anxiety of fear based scenarios distracts us from healing.
Many of us cry in remembrance, nonetheless. Hundreds of miles and hundreds of days from the events of 9-11, I cry. For a few years, in my youth, I lived and studied in 1980s New York City. I knew the City and, for that short time, I breathed the City. That single September day of 2001 changed everything. My heart sank as the second plane plowed into the World Trade Center on live television and it has not yet risen to the height it innocently and easily held September 10, 2001.
It became my pilgrimage to visit the hole, to make it more than a television screen that replayed the moments of impact. It was important to witness the result with my own eyes, to breathe the difference. When my wife, my son and I got to the place where once stood majestic titans, I couldn't help myself - I kept looking up in shock, whimpering "I can't believe they are actually gone. It is so empty." Others were looking through the fence into the rubble, into the hole. For me, the power of what happened was felt looking up at nothing. My family did not fully understand the many pictures I took of the sky above the fence line nor did they notice the way I held tightly to the fence as I pushed my face against a torn opening in the plastic that was draped loosely, looking at a flag draped coffin under a steel cross. How I needed that image to reassure me that God could be present even there, even then. Five years later, I have put away the photos - even as I admit the images are indelibly etched into my very being.
Tears are still falling not only for the catastrophic personal and individual losses of 9-11, but the loss of “America, the Invulnerable.” Fives years later, we also grieve the loss of “America, the Compassionate” and “America, the Merciful.” Some know these as attributes of God - but, until 9-11, many of us believed America held a special privilege of divine protection. Maybe she still does, but she does so despite the calls for violent retribution and the opportunities of blood soaked profits. Maybe God hears below the surface to our collective conscience, the part of all of us that knows what was done for a battle cry, that it needs to become a cry for forgiveness and humility.
If our losses could have ended on 9-11, five years later we could be healing at deep levels throughout our society. But our losses continue. The loss of life overseas, the loss of respect among the nations, the loss of security of our border, the loss of trust of our neighbors and each other are all hard losses to acknowledge. Adding salt to our wounds, our losses have been exploited and manipulated. Five years later, fear has come to dominate our collective grief. Instead of healing, fear keeps tearing at the scab as blood trickles from our woundedness.
I woke up crying for our losses that September day and those that linger to this day, this anniversary. It is not just a few buildings; for the rubble has been cleared and new structures have begun. It is not the people; for we all share the same end even if we do not share the manner of our departure (may God be merciful to all). What I truly mourn is the depth of our vulnerability exposed, the ease we have let blood flow in other lands, the reliance on the false security of vengeance, the exposure of untrustworthy guardians.
Perhaps, these dark things existed in our society all along and 9-11 became a light to expose our shortcoming and errors. Whether these are the details of our underbelly exposed or the errors of exploited fear, we are still accountable. It is not what happens to us, what others do to us, that will matter in the forever life as well as in the annuls of history. It is what we do, in spite of what happens to us; it is what we have done that will matter in the long run. There are dark principles that some would have us believe are filled with light. It sounds palatable when they say they stick to their principles - because we want to believe we share the same resolve.
However, we must be willing to examine the actions and outcomes of these darker principles. We need to have the courage to stand for peace in times of war, healing in times of woundedness, love in times of hatred, hope in times of distrust and disinformation. We need to embrace faith in the benevolence of God, who looked upon His creation in the beginning and saw that it was good. We need to act in charitable ways and in kind manners. We need to encourage constructive solutions and ideas that help us come together rather than rely on divisive and fear-filled rhetoric. We need to embrace the mercy of God with contrition and humility, with an understanding of our connectedness to even the least of us whether we lack in material sustenance, moral attributes, or spiritual wisdom.
If my spiritual ancestors of the Orthodox Christian Church knew the hour of our collective final judgment, they only said "Soon." Hundred of years have passed since, still the elders of our church say, "Soon." "Soon" has a double edged warning as it purposely lacks the defining attributes of precise digital time. “Soon” begs us to be prepared for the day of the Lord may be tomorrow, but act as if it were another thousand years away. In a fundamental and transcendent way, this reconciled manner of living with finality and eternity is our personal responsibility to God and our neighbors.
I reach out and pray to God to increase in our hearts a greater desire for peace with all people, that we may embrace our enemies and encourage our friends to greater acts of compassion, that we may be proved worthy of that blessed kingdom to come that has already been promised and stand assured on that day of God's love and mercy for all of us.
Five years later, I cry and remember 9-11.
(all rights reserved by the author - 2006)
Monday, September 04, 2006
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Are You A Christian Couch Potato? - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded live August 13, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin USA - based upon scripture readings for 1st Sunday of Transfiguration: Matthew 21:28-32, James 4:6-5:6, Phillipians 4:8-20
(recorded at lower sound quality)
(recorded at lower sound quality)
Monday, August 07, 2006
On The Transfiguration
Dear Ones,
Due to technical difficulties, the sermon of this past Sunday was not
recorded. So instead, I offer the links to a treatise on "The
Transfiguration and
Some Meditations upon the Feast of the Transfiguration" June 1998 by Pope
Shenouda III, Coptic Patriarch. A portion was read in the sermon.
http://www.coptnet.com/Pope-Books/the_transfiguration/index.htm (better for
reading online)
http://www.coptnet.com/books/the_transfiguration.pdf (better for download
and printing)
BTW - pictures from St Mary & St Antonious Coptic Orthodox Church first
service in Milwaukee (Oak Creek) are already loaded up on our mission blog
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/ along with some other summer pics.
Hope to see you at our annual picnic on Sunday (or at least read your best
wishes or greetings, if you cannot make it).
Please pray for peace in our world, in our churches, among all of us.
your servant,
Fr John Brian
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
Madison, Wisconsin
608.236.9622
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Monday, July 10, 2006
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
HEALING,,,, WHAT HEALING???
Ghebre Huwarshek wrote on Sunday, July 02, 2006 5:13 PM
To: frjohnbrian@priest.com
To: frjohnbrian@priest.com
HEALING,,,, WHAT HEALING???
SEE THE WORLD AROUND YOU & TELL ME ABOUT "HEALING"???
From: Rev Fr John Brian [mailto:frjohnbrian@priest.com]
Sent: Sunday, July 02, 2006 9:55 PM
To: 'Ghebre Huwarshek'
Sent: Sunday, July 02, 2006 9:55 PM
To: 'Ghebre Huwarshek'
Yes, I can see the woundedness and brokenness of the world around us - but there IS healing. For all the pain in the world, God's mercy is still abundant. It is our task as Orthodox Christians to bring love, peace and healing to the places where it does not seem to be present
So, are you bringing healing or more wounds to those around you?
Do not be dismayed if you are not sure or if you feel inadequate to work for love, peace and healing in difficult circumstances, among difficult people.
Each of us, individually, is truly inadequate. But, as children of God, we are not alone - even though each of us must each do the work of Christianity in our own individual lives, regardless of where in the world we find ourselves; no matter who we have to deal with.
It is by partaking of the sacramental life of Holy Church that we are strengthened for this tremendous task in front of each of us.
It is not for us to change the world by ourselves through our individual efforts. Yet, without our individual good and loving works, the world would truly be a worse place to live. Sometimes, as little as a smile can give hope to someone in despair. Sometimes holding the door open can bring a moment of relief to someone whose arms are broken or to one who is exhausted from fighting cancer. There are many ways to bring healing, love and peace - some more obvious than others. Each of us is unique and will be able to offer unique gifts of healing moments to others. We need to open our hearts and be willing to minister. Even the most subtle and covert means of ministry will become obvious to us through the angelic tugging at our hearts.
I am reminded that even a bumpy road can lead us home - it is not the "bumps in the road," but rather the direction we are traveling.
I hope this has answered your concerns. If you are presented with personal issues or dilemmas, I would recommend praying to God and speaking to your priest. What church so you attend? Perhaps, I may able to help you.
your servant,
Fr John Brian
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
Madison, Wisconsin
608.236.9622
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Introduction to Orthodox Christian Meditation
Informal talk given by Fr John Brian Paprock at mini-retreat Saturday, June 24, 2006 at Marurropa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Dealing With Interference and Discouragement
Informal talk by Fr John Brian Paprock given at mini-retreat on prayer and meditation practice on June 24, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Answering questions after a break.
Answering questions after a break.
Sent Out as Apostles
Sent Out as Apostles - sermon homily by Fr John Brian recorded 25 June 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy TRansfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Based on the beginning of Matthew Chapter 10 and the end of Ephesians chapter 2
Based on the beginning of Matthew Chapter 10 and the end of Ephesians chapter 2
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Each of Us, A Ministry of Reconciliation
Each of Us, A Ministry of Reconciliation - sermon/homily recorded June 18,
2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox
Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Scriptures:
John 6: 26-35
Acts 17:10-15
2 Corinthians 5:14-6:10 (1John 3:2)
2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox
Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Scriptures:
John 6: 26-35
Acts 17:10-15
2 Corinthians 5:14-6:10 (1John 3:2)
Monday, June 12, 2006
Making Room for the Spirit
Making Room for the Spirit - sermon/homily recorded June 11, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA - focusing on the scriptures: Galatians 5:13-26
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Ascension Power
Ascension Power - sermon/homily by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday June 4, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox
Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Based upon the end of Mark, the end of Luke, the first chapter of Acts and a passage from Ephesians.
Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Based upon the end of Mark, the end of Luke, the first chapter of Acts and a passage from Ephesians.
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Dull Minds and Heavy Hearts
Dull Minds and Heavy Hearts, sermon/homily recorded live May 21, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission
Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA - Scriptures include passage near the end of the Gospel of Luke and the end of the First Epistle of
John.
Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA - Scriptures include passage near the end of the Gospel of Luke and the end of the First Epistle of
John.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Christianity: Universal and Indigenous?
Christianity: Universal and Indigenous?
By Rev. Fr. John Brian Paprock, for the V.C. Samuel Ecumenical Forum
is now available in PDF at the ICON website along with other fine articles.
http://www.icon.org.in/icon_resources_home.icon#
direct link to the PDF is
http://www.icon.org.in/jsp/icon/resources/vcsamuel/Essay-IndigenousOrthodoxy
.pdf
This is submitted online with all humility as it is my hope that this essay
work for the common good.
May the risen Christ have mercy on us all as we move toward the full
realization of His Holy purpose for us and this world. May the comforter
and all the gifts of the Spirit come upon us again as at the apostolic
celebration of Pentecost so that the love of God may be truly known
regardless of them and in spite of us.
Please pray for me and for our mission and for all mission efforts of Holy
Orthodoxy.
As always, your comments are welcome.
your servant,
Fr John Brian
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
Madison, Wisconsin
608.236.9622
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html
Monday, May 15, 2006
Of Mothers and Sheep
Of Mothers and Sheep - sermon/homily recorded live Sunday May 14, 2006 (which is Mother's Day in the USA) at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA - concerning the scripture verses at the end of the Gospel of John.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Preparing to Prevail
Preparing to Prevail - sermon/homily recorded May 7, 2006 live at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Scripture: John 21 (begin), Ephesians 6 (end)
Scripture: John 21 (begin), Ephesians 6 (end)
Thursday, May 04, 2006
RE: Confession through letters or mails
Dearest Abraham,
The essential element to all of our activity as Orthodox Christians is "relationship" - to God and to one another. God saw fit to establish His Church to accomplish this.
You may confess to anyone - to a judge in a secular court, to a secular therapist, to a beggar on the street - however, without the essential element of reconciliation to the Church - the Church that Christ God established through the Holy Apostles that has and continues to exist through time and history - then why confess anything.
Now, we certainly can use the practice and there are benefits to speaking the truth even when it hurts. In a selfish way, we may get a reduced sentence or feel better. We may even overcome grievous mental and physical illness.
So, from this, mail or letter could be seen as practice and, perhaps, as lancing the boils of our sin. The Saints and Fathers of Holy Church teach us that the sacraments are healing and nourishment for our souls and spirits, for the very core of our existence - and these can only happen in person, in context, in community. The admission of Truth about ourselves (our shortcomings, our faults, our sins) need not be public, but the resolution and reconciliation must be completed by an agent of our community entrusted with that duty to welcome lost sheep into the flock; to welcome prodigals back into the family.
Confession, absolution and penance can be private matters, but when the priest or bishop has granted absolution, then who are we to retain our sins or the sins of our brethren? However, if only secret letters are passed, only psychotherapy received - has the sin been absolved?
Christ told His Apostles after His resurrection - that supreme act of salvation, of potential reunion for all of us - "whatsoever sins you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven" We can hang onto our sin as long as we like - we can blame fears of inadequate priests and bishops and remain separate from Holy Church - we may even walk away from being in community with Christ and His successors to follow false prophets (secular or religious or "spiritual") because they have lower expectations - but it is an illusion that we can "get away" with our sins, that we can reconcile by avoiding those whom we need to reconcile, that we can live forever outside Holy Church (which is not as the Church is here).
Our access to Christ's healing touch is through His successors. We must be present in body, mind and spirit to receive the gracious and merciful gifts that God gives freely. It is not abstract. It is not long distance. It is intimate and it is everything.
What does Christ say, over and over again to those that are healed?
And in another place, He asks, which is easier to forgive sins or to heal the sick? Are not both miracles?
Fr John Brian
Madison, Wisconsin
From: Abraham.Koshy
To: IndianOrthodox@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [ICON] Confession throgh letters or mails
Thanks for the prompt response to my query. As I understand now, confession through letter and mails can be done preferably through known Priests and Bishops?
In case the Priests and Bishops are not known personally, is it possible to do confession through Mail or Letter?
Hope Achan will be able to guide me.
Abraham
Bangalore (India)
Monday, May 01, 2006
St Thomas at the octave of resurrection
Due to technical difficulties, the audio for this week's sermon cannot be
posted. So, this printed sermon is offered in its stead. Pray for our
mission effort in Madison, Wisconsin. Pray for me - John Brian Achen
+ + + + + + + + + + + +
St Thomas at the octave of resurrection
John 20:19-31
Based a sermon given on May 7, 2000
Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Holy St Thomas, the "doubting" apostle, is mentioned in all Gospels and also
mentioned in Acts. However, in Matthew, Mark and Luke (and Acts), he is
mentioned only once in a list of apostles, usually next to Matthew. In the
Gospel of John, St Thomas has a larger role, especially in chapter 20. In
chapter 11 of John's Gospel, St Thomas accompanied the Lord to Bethany to be
a witness to the raising of Lazarus from the dead. In chapter 14, it is St
Thomas' question, "How can we know the way?" that prompts the Lord to
respond, "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life." How is it then that such
an apostle doubts the resurrection?
He was not alone with doubts. All the apostles and disciples of Jesus
Christ were in doubt and turmoil after the crucifixion. It was to the women
that Jesus first appeared after rising. It was Mary Magdalene tries to
convince them of the resurrection. When Jesus Christ appeared in their
midst after the door had been closed, he showed them his wounds. St Thomas
was not yet there.
So he asked for the proof of Christ's wounds, the same proof provided to the
others. Verse 28: "And Thomas answered and said unto Him, My Lord and my
God." This declaration of Christ's Godhood and of St Thomas' servant-hood,
is in anticipation of our own Christian life.
It is important to note that in this chapter of John, Jesus says three times
"Peace be unto you" in the rest of the Gospel peace is mentioned only two
other times - at the Last Supper:
(14:27)"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world
giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be
afraid."
(16:33)"These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace.
In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have
overcome the world."
So when we can exclaim from our innermost soul, "My Lord and my God," then
we have liberation from all lesser things. It seems that last things to
overcome in the Christian life are periods of doubt that arise - but having
seen the and witnessed the Holy One within, sensing His sorrow, allowing
ourselves the privilege of seeing His wounds and His cares for us, we are
brought to our knees in all humanity; and then, with all doubts relieved
from our being, we relax ourselves into the fullness of Christ. From then
on we do not need to act with the old self, using the old personality with
its human traits, but become a new being. When our Lord is able to manifest
Himself to us, the first thing established is the "peace of God, which
passes all understanding." Great peace can be ours, then we are sent
forward with the Holy Ghost to forgive sins, no longer on our own. See, the
peace in our hearts and the forgiveness of others are connected, but neither
do we do alone. We just need to overcome the doubts.
Many years ago, I was caught up in some difficult times. I lamented to
Christ God to relieve me of my burdens, but doubted there was anything that
could be done. I went to a place of beauty and serenity, hoping it would
give me what I could not accept elsewhere. Then it hit me - serenity -
despite the turmoil, like a whirlwind surrounding me, I felt an inner peace.
In the magnitude of God's creation, I finally let God be in charge and
resolved to do only the small portion in front of me - the next right thing.
Later, as I was driving away, I tried to figure out exactly what I did to
capture that serenity and, at that very moment, it was gone. See, this
peace is bestowed by Christ on the pious, those that accept and understand
the limitations of being human, being separated from God and not being God.
It is only by keeping my self as a servant to "My Lord and my God" that I am
granted this peace. Trying to be God's master with my demands and
timetables that most people seem to call prayer, gives me the impossible
task in addition to my own troubles - supervising the all-knowing,
all-powerful God. Talk about chutzpah!
The other amazing point in the Gospel is that Christ rose from the dead with
His wounds fully intact. Now, I always knew this - in my head. I have seen
the Roman Catholic realistic depictions on the cross. It is easier, perhaps,
to leave the injuries and wounds there. It didn't really strike me until I
had encountered the intensity of my own inner wounded-ness and felt great
despair over the limitations of my pain and my fear. Someone pointed this
out to me and, like a thunderbolt; I was awakened from my bed of despair.
Christ, being God, could have easily repaired all the injuries that He
received and risen as a completely whole and perfect man. But, instead,
rose with His wounds fully intact - not only overcoming death, but also the
frailness of our human existence as well. In this understanding does St
Thomas' exclamation make sense - Jesus Christ asks St Thomas to prove His
wounded-ness and to "be not faithless, but believing." We want an
appearance of the burning bush, the descent of the Epiphany dove, the
blinding light of the Transfiguration, but Christ offers His wounded-ness.
"Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed; blessed are they
that have not seen, and yet have believed."
"Can we, today, touch the wounded flesh of the Savior? " asks Orthodox
priest and monk Fr. Lev Gillet (of blessed memory) who wrote under the
pseudonym A Monk of the Eastern Church, "Can we, who are not granted
ecstasies or visions, be sure that it is a living being and not a phantom
that we worship?"
Fr Lev writes, "We can, this possibility is given to everyone. Jesus is
invisibly, but really, alive in the flesh and blood creatures who exist all
around us. We can estimate the wounds of the crucifixion today, and worship
them in the sick, the poor, in all men and women who suffer...Jesus says to
us: 'If thou dost doubt that I was crucified for thee and that I was raised
from the dead, pay attention to the suffering members of my body. Touch me
in stretching out a rescuing hand to them. In giving to them, thou shalt
find me. Do something for them, which is costly for thee. Sacrifice
thyself for them as much as thou canst. And, behold, in them thou shalt
feel me living and present. Thou shalt experience the reality, the power of
my Resurrection.'
"It is not given to us to see the Blessed Face constantly, but, like an
evanescent vision, the face of Christ will appear to me behind the face of
my brother or sister, and, through compassion, I shall meet the Passion
[Crucifixion and Resurrection]. I shall touch my brother who suffers, and
say: "My Lord and my God."
May Christ bring to us Peace to comfort our turmoil and Peace to transmit to
others during this auspicious time! Amen.
A version of this sermon is available at:
http://www.angelfire.com/wi/theosis/thomas.html
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Sermon of St John Chrysostom is read aloud at Easter - Pascha - Pesaha throughout Christian churches. This is recorded live at middle night
service, early morning of April 23, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) Madison, Wisconsin USA - 3 minutes, 41 seconds
service, early morning of April 23, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) Madison, Wisconsin USA - 3 minutes, 41 seconds
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Monday, April 17, 2006
Sunday, April 16, 2006
CHRIST IS RISEN, My Dear Ones, Christ is risen!
For Easter 2006
8th Day Pastoral Reflection - Pesaha - Easter 2004
Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Maruroopa Palli - Hoy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
Madison, Wisconsin
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My Dear Ones,
CHRIST IS RISEN!
Kristu Uyirthezunnettu!
Christos T'ensah Em' Muhtan!
Krisdos Hareavi Merelots!
Kristos Aftooun!
Christos Anesti!
Meshiha Qam!
HE IS RISEN INDEED!
This is the 8th Day - the day of ending and beginning - the elevated octave
of humanity -
For Christ is Risen from the dead trampling death by death and on those in
the tombs bestowing life!
On this Resurrection Day, we are reminded that upon this defeat of sin,
death is destroyed - it has no more sway over those that follow Christ. The
entire universe, all of creation, is transformed - for the penalty of sin is
transfigured, transmuted and translated - Christ is risen because of God's
great mercy and love for us, showing us that we need only repent and return
to His love to engender His mercy.
Christ is risen from the dead and the gates of hell can no longer hold
captives, the chains of the devil can no longer bind the penitent.
Christ is risen and there is no longer a darkness that has not been
shattered by light - long and dark shadows are now easily dismissed, because
Christ is risen and we know the source of light - we turn to it and shadows
disappear.
Christ has saved all of us, not just through His excruciating death, but,
most importantly, by rising from death and bringing the remedy to the curse
of Adam. We are no longer expelled. Eden's delight and the promised land
are within our reach. The gates of heaven are open to all of us - if we but
walk through.
Some may need to stop admiring the door stop or the door handle on the
outside and make the effort to walk through that door that was flung open in
this miracle beyond all miracles, this fantastic event that is now available
to everyone.
Some may not have heard this good news - Christ is risen and we no longer
live under the assumption of death. We no longer live by the dictates of
the lower nature. Christ is risen and instructs His apostles in
establishing the One True Church so that we, alive on earth in 2004, may
come to a knowledge of His Truth, His Love and His Mercy.
Some may reject it because they believe they know before they know - not
having the benefit of the Holy Apostles and all our father and mothers
before us preserving the One True Church for this auspicious time. The
Church is too easily rejected in this day and age because it too has
suffered under the delusion of death, but death is defeated, because Christ
is risen from the dead!
The One Holy Apostolic Church, founded by the Apostles, protected by their
prayers as well as the intercessions of Holy Theotokos, Mother of God, Mary,
needs to show the world the light beyond all lights - the light that can
never be extinguished - that spiritual light that illumines the faithful so
that they may be lights unto those that are still in darkness. This is the
light of Hope, the light of Love, the light of Light, the everlasting light
of Life! Christ is risen and has ensured that all of creation will no
longer have to sit in darkness and fear, but live in the light of Truth!
Christ is risen so that each of us, as True Apostolic Christians may carry
His love, His light, His Hope and His life in us and freely give to those
that seek relief from the burdens of living a life unto death. For Christ
is risen and death is destroyed - death's yoke that drives so many to sin
and isolation from God has been broken.
CHRIST IS RISEN, My Dear Ones, Christ is risen!
He is risen, indeed!
your servant, Fr John Brian
8th Day Pastoral Reflection - Pesaha - Easter 2004
Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Maruroopa Palli - Hoy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
Madison, Wisconsin
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
My Dear Ones,
CHRIST IS RISEN!
Kristu Uyirthezunnettu!
Christos T'ensah Em' Muhtan!
Krisdos Hareavi Merelots!
Kristos Aftooun!
Christos Anesti!
Meshiha Qam!
HE IS RISEN INDEED!
This is the 8th Day - the day of ending and beginning - the elevated octave
of humanity -
For Christ is Risen from the dead trampling death by death and on those in
the tombs bestowing life!
On this Resurrection Day, we are reminded that upon this defeat of sin,
death is destroyed - it has no more sway over those that follow Christ. The
entire universe, all of creation, is transformed - for the penalty of sin is
transfigured, transmuted and translated - Christ is risen because of God's
great mercy and love for us, showing us that we need only repent and return
to His love to engender His mercy.
Christ is risen from the dead and the gates of hell can no longer hold
captives, the chains of the devil can no longer bind the penitent.
Christ is risen and there is no longer a darkness that has not been
shattered by light - long and dark shadows are now easily dismissed, because
Christ is risen and we know the source of light - we turn to it and shadows
disappear.
Christ has saved all of us, not just through His excruciating death, but,
most importantly, by rising from death and bringing the remedy to the curse
of Adam. We are no longer expelled. Eden's delight and the promised land
are within our reach. The gates of heaven are open to all of us - if we but
walk through.
Some may need to stop admiring the door stop or the door handle on the
outside and make the effort to walk through that door that was flung open in
this miracle beyond all miracles, this fantastic event that is now available
to everyone.
Some may not have heard this good news - Christ is risen and we no longer
live under the assumption of death. We no longer live by the dictates of
the lower nature. Christ is risen and instructs His apostles in
establishing the One True Church so that we, alive on earth in 2004, may
come to a knowledge of His Truth, His Love and His Mercy.
Some may reject it because they believe they know before they know - not
having the benefit of the Holy Apostles and all our father and mothers
before us preserving the One True Church for this auspicious time. The
Church is too easily rejected in this day and age because it too has
suffered under the delusion of death, but death is defeated, because Christ
is risen from the dead!
The One Holy Apostolic Church, founded by the Apostles, protected by their
prayers as well as the intercessions of Holy Theotokos, Mother of God, Mary,
needs to show the world the light beyond all lights - the light that can
never be extinguished - that spiritual light that illumines the faithful so
that they may be lights unto those that are still in darkness. This is the
light of Hope, the light of Love, the light of Light, the everlasting light
of Life! Christ is risen and has ensured that all of creation will no
longer have to sit in darkness and fear, but live in the light of Truth!
Christ is risen so that each of us, as True Apostolic Christians may carry
His love, His light, His Hope and His life in us and freely give to those
that seek relief from the burdens of living a life unto death. For Christ
is risen and death is destroyed - death's yoke that drives so many to sin
and isolation from God has been broken.
CHRIST IS RISEN, My Dear Ones, Christ is risen!
He is risen, indeed!
your servant, Fr John Brian
Monday, April 10, 2006
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
sermon commentary from church members
Four Comments about the audio sermons on-line
www.frjohnbrian.blogspot.com
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From: George Mathew (Monday, March 27, 2006)
My dear Achen,
Trust all is well. I am glad you have taken up a new ministry. It will be a
blessing for all who hear it.
With love and prayers,
Benny Semassan
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From: Rachel Pyngolil (Friday, March 24, 2006)
Dear Fr. John Brian:
I did spend some time listening to one of the sermons on the blogspot. I
didn't have a chance to listen to many of them; however, I find that it is a
great initiative, and I thank you for your interest and the effort you put
forth in doing this. I find the sermon enlightening and think this is a
great project and hope that others benefit from it, as well. Often
non-denominational churches will put their services online for members who
are unable to make it to church. Our service is far more interactive, so I
don't think you can entirely benefit from it without attending church,
however, being able to at least benefit from the sermon and a lot of people
do enjoy the service and music from our service, so if you do have
recordings of service music/and such that would be nice to access and
download, as well. Thanks and God bless!
Sincerely,
Rachel Pyngolil
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From: Jason (Thursday, March 23, 2006)
Dear and Reverend Achen,
I had an opportunity to listen to a few of the on-line sermons. It's a
really great service for those who are unable to hear the sermons directly.
It was definitely a good idea to integrate the sermons on a blog, providing
opportunity for feedback and easy access. I don't know if you recall, but we
met at the St.Gregorios conference in Philadelphia last year.
Thank you for the self-less services you render to the church.
With Love and Prayers,
Jason, Tampa
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From: Jacob Mathew (Thursday, March 23, 2006)
Dear Achen and Kochamma:
I am really excited that you are making your sermons available digitally
online. This will be a treat for people such as us who cannot attend your
services in WI.
Respectfully,
Jacob
Cleveland Prayer Group
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
A RESPONSE TO GOD'S SILENCE
THE CHRISTIAN
LIGHT OF LIFE
CHRISTIAN NEWS MAGAZINE FOR KERALA MALAYALEE CHRISTIANS FROM INDIA AROUND THE WORLD
| MARCH 2006 | ARTICLE |
| ||
 | ||||
A RESPONSE TO GOD'S SILENCE
By REV. FR. JOHN-BRIAN PAPROCK
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission, Madison, Wisconsin USA
THE IMPORTANCE OF STANDING PRAYERS - A MEDITATIVE STUDY
THE IMPORTANCE OF STANDING PRAYERS - A MEDITATIVE STUDY
by Rev. Fr. John Brian, Wisconsin
http://www.icon.org.in/iconarchives_standingprayers.icon?method=getArticle&id=1
Published on the internet by
The Indian Christian Orthodox Network (ICON)
++Inform! Involve! Inspire!++
by Rev. Fr. John Brian, Wisconsin
http://www.icon.org.in/iconarchives_standingprayers.icon?method=getArticle&id=1
Published on the internet by
The Indian Christian Orthodox Network (ICON)
++Inform! Involve! Inspire!++
Monday, March 27, 2006
Saturday, March 25, 2006
Thursday, March 23, 2006
John the Baptist - Sermon/Homily January 2006
Recorded Sunday, January 8, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Parish) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Tuesday, March 21, 2006
New Year, New Day - Sermon/Homily January 2006
Recorded Sunday, January 1, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
New Year, New Day - Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Extemporaneous sermon was transcribed and edited for the diocesan website - posted 12/31/09. http://www.ds-wa.org/new-year-new-dayfrbrian.html
Subordinate Roles - Sermon/Homily December 2005
Recorded Sunday, December 4, 2005 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy
Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA.
Lower quailty due to digital recording at wrong setting.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Further Healing in Community - Sermon/homily March 2006
Recorded Sunday, March 19, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Power of Women - Sermon/homily November 2005
Recorded Sunday, November 27, 2005 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Quality is mediocre - it is the first digitally recorded sermon.
Groundhogs, Candles and Time - Sermon/homily February 2006
Recorded Sunday, February 5, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
audio sermons available online
From: William Hanna
Sent: Saturday, March 18, 2006 7:31 PM
Sent: Saturday, March 18, 2006 7:31 PM
Fr. JB:
Your Sermons are wonderful. They are full of spiritual meaning and the Love of Christ. I wish you success in everything you do.
Please Pray for me as I will pray for you also.
Glory always be to the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. One God. Amen.
Blessed Lent.
William Hanna
St. Louis, Missouri
P.S. Please let others know about the Book on Heresies and Heretics. http://www.heresiesandheretics.com
The cost of publishing is tremendous. I am hoping to cover the cost of Printing! GBU.
I have other books on the Internet for free in pdf: http://www.stmary-church.com
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Born Again and Again - Sermon/homily January 2006
recorded January 22, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Friday, March 17, 2006
Worthy Fruit - Sermon/homily February 2006
Recorded Sunday, February 12, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Healing Community - Sermon/homily March 2006
This is the first audio sermon/homily published.
Recorded March 12, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Recorded March 12, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
Why a blog?
Praise to be the merciful Lord that allows me this internet, this electronic space to publish both audio and written work to be easily and readily available.
May that Lord richly bless each one who may come to this reading. May God bless this endeavor with His wisdom and grace. May His love be ever present and bountiful. May the Healing Spirit that brings us back into that wholeness of our very creation be present among the electrons, bits and bytes of this media, reaching beyond the screens into the hearts. May Peace prevail! May Love provide! May Light and Life keep us in the Truth! May Wisdom teach our hearts and souls! May we never loose sight of the creator and provider of all good things.
May this small effort be blessed with an angel of healing, an angel of enlightenment, an angel of fortitude, an angel of love. May you be blessed by these angels.
Pray for me, a servant.
May that Lord richly bless each one who may come to this reading. May God bless this endeavor with His wisdom and grace. May His love be ever present and bountiful. May the Healing Spirit that brings us back into that wholeness of our very creation be present among the electrons, bits and bytes of this media, reaching beyond the screens into the hearts. May Peace prevail! May Love provide! May Light and Life keep us in the Truth! May Wisdom teach our hearts and souls! May we never loose sight of the creator and provider of all good things.
May this small effort be blessed with an angel of healing, an angel of enlightenment, an angel of fortitude, an angel of love. May you be blessed by these angels.
Pray for me, a servant.
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