Galatians 6:11-18; John 3:13-17
The bronze serpent was given by God for the healing of His people, but when Israel began treating the gift as though it possessed holiness in itself, Hezekiah destroyed it as Nehushtan—a mere piece of bronze. St. Paul confronts a similar temptation in Galatians, warning Christians not to mistake even good and God-given practices for the new life that comes only through union with Christ. This homily considers how Orthodox rituals, customs, cultures, and identities can form us in holiness without becoming substitutes for the One toward whom they are meant to lead us. You can read the full essay version of this homily at OrthoAnalytika.org. Enjoy the show!

This is a recording of the class given at Christ the Saviour in Anderson SC on 09/09/2026

Prayer is more than asking God for things; it is one of the primary means He has given us for learning to know Him and becoming capable of doing His will. Like practicing music or learning a vocation, a regular prayer rule gradually trains the intellect, disciplines our instincts and passions, opens the heart to God, and joins us more deeply to the common life of the Church. Through prayer, God does not simply change the circumstances around us—He changes us, so that we can participate more faithfully in His work of making the crooked straight and bringing His creation toward beauty, light, and love. You can find the full notes for this lesson at OrthoAnalytika.org. Enjoy the show!

In these excerpts from a teaching liturgy, Fr. Anthony reflects on St. Paul's command that all things in the Church be done "decently and in order," showing how liturgical discipline serves communion, healing, and holiness rather than mere conformity. From venerating icons and lighting candles to dressing modestly, singing together, moving during the services, and exchanging the kiss of peace (maybe - we'll see!), the rituals of the Church teach us how to live together as the Body of Christ. Good liturgical order is therefore less like a military parade than an orchestra or a dance: diverse people learning, through grace, to move together in harmony, beauty, truth, and love. Enjoy the show!