Archive for 'Podcast'

Where did Jesus go after he died on the cross, but before he rose again? Scripture contains little on the subject, but what it does say is monumentally powerful: “he descended into hell.” In this sermon, Father John explores the early Christian belief that Jesus “descended” into hell to “take captivity captive” prior to ascending to Paradise. There are some surprising practical applications for this ancient belief that theologians and artists throughout the centuries have described as “The Harrowing of ...

While in seminary, Father John heard often that those preparing for ordained ministry, “go to serve a dying church.” In this sermon, Father John counters that notion – based on the experience of a disheartened and struggling community which is transformed by the living presence of Christ. The sermon text for this morning is John 20:1-18 – the encounter of Mary Magdalene with Jesus at the tomb.

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Usually on Palm Sunday we focus on the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem, or the specifics of his trial and crucifixion. In this Palm Sunday sermon, however, Father John examines the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot – and asks the question, “Did his story have to end in tragedy?” This sermon explores how people of faith can handle regret or failure in life in a constructive way, rather than one that leads to despair and death. Listen to ...

Are you willing to be a “non-confirmist” for the sake of your faith? In this sermon, Father John explores Paul’s charge to his Roman audience to “not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Listen for a message of encouragement and challenge!

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Some of Paul’s most powerful statements in Romans can be found in chapters seven and eight. Father John examines the contrast between the mind “set on the flesh” and the mind “set on the spirit” in today’s sermon. Be encouraged by Paul’s wisdom in this powerful section of the Apostle’s letter!

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In this sermon, Father John continues our Lenten exploration of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans – specifically Chapter five. Here Paul explains the significance of Jesus’ death on the cross – God’s way of acting both justly and lovingly towards a broken world. Listen for a message that goes deeper into our understanding of why the cross of Christ matters for our faith.

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Continuing the exploration of the book of Romans during Lent, Father John looks at Paul’s solution for becoming “right with God.” It may surprise you to find that it is not good works or being fastidious about religious ritual! Paul points to the example of Abraham in Romans 3-4 as an example of the kind of faith that God desires to find in us.

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During Lent 2014, Father John explores the message of Paul’s letter to the Romans. The first three chapters establish the theological foundation for the rest of the letter, and here Paul states emphatically that all people – irreligious and religious, uninhibited or straight-laced – live under the power of sin. This means that religious people need to be very careful that they do not rely upon ritual and rules to “make us better people.” Listen for Good News as we ...

In our last entry of the sermon series “Living Our Namesake,” Father John begins by asking how we are intentionally taking care of our souls – the most important thing we possess. This sermon then explores the final foundation for building a healthy, growing spiritual life: Worship. Participating in a regular, weekly service of worship provides an essential means of regular spiritual nourishment and renewal!

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Our sermon series exploring the life of Andrew our patron saint continues by exploring the concept of engaging others in spiritual community. No sooner was Andrew called to follow Jesus than he joined a group of people seeking to do the same. How did he connect with them? Do we have a “go it alone” attitude when it comes to our faith? Do we let others get to know us, and do we seek to know others? Father John explores ...