St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

5 Is a Holy Marriage Possible? [Part 1] | Living Incense

Fr. Matthias discusses the challenges and realities of building a godly marriage in the 21st century. He explores common newlywed conflicts, societal shifts affecting marriage such as delayed marriage age, increased female workforce participation, and changing family dynamics. Fr. Matthias explains the Orthodox Christian view on marriage as a path to salvation, emphasizing sacrifice, forgiveness, and the presence of God in the couple’s life through active faith and church accountability.He addresses how the institution of marriage has evolved from Old Testament practices and arranged marriages to modern dating, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and discernment in choosing a spouse. Fr. Mina also talks about the church’s stance on procreation within marriage and the impact of societal trends on divorce rates. This discussion offers foundational insights into understanding and pursuing a marriage rooted in faith and commitment.

Allegorical Interpretation of David & Goliath | Bible Study (Joe Costandy)

Joe Costandy explores the allegorical interpretation of the biblical story of David and Goliath, focusing on its deeper spiritual meanings beyond the literal and moral layers. He explains the symbolism of key characters, showing Saul as a figure representing Adam and David as a symbol of Christ, the beloved son who replaces the first king.Joe discusses the significance of the battle setting, the representation of Satan and humanity, and how David's victory prefigures Christ’s triumph over evil through humility and obedience to God. He also highlights how the story reflects God's broader plan for humanity’s salvation and the spiritual battle between good and evil.Drawing from early church fathers and Scripture, Joe emphasizes that the allegorical reading complements the literal account, revealing the richness of biblical narratives as part of God's unfolding revelation.

Spiritually Nurturing Great Fast | Sermon (Fr. Younan William @saintmaryhouston)

In this sermon, Fr. Younan William reflects on the true meaning and purpose of the Great Fast as a season of spiritual renewal and loyalty to Christ. He emphasizes that fasting is not merely about dietary restrictions but a tool for gaining self-control, deepening prayer, repentance, and fellowship with Christ and the church. Fr. Younan encourages preparing the right mindset, combining physical fasting with spiritual practices, and consecrating time away from distractions like media addiction.He also stresses the importance of seriousness, consistency, and adhering to the church’s fasting rules under the guidance of one’s spiritual father. By avoiding half-hearted fasting and focusing on inner transformation, believers can persevere through challenges and strengthen their spiritual journey. Fr. Younan calls on all to follow Christ not only for blessings but even amid hardships, walking with Him in humility and endurance.

”Have You Seen the One I Love”: Contemplation on Song of Solomon 1:15 | The Harvest (Eric Tadros)

In "Have You Seen the One I Love": Contemplation on Song of Solomon 1:15, Eric Tadros explores the deep spiritual relationship between the soul and God as reflected in the Song of Solomon. Eric discusses how the Lord views the soul as beautiful and desirable, even amid sin, emphasizing God’s persistent desire for the soul’s return.Eric highlights the importance of seeking God's testimony over worldly praise, using examples like John the Baptist, St. Mary, and others who appeared plain outwardly but were great in the sight of the Lord. He reflects on themes like labor, faith, love, confession, and humility as qualities that make the soul beautiful to God.The symbolism of “dove’s eyes” is explained as representing spiritual insight and the presence of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to maintain purity, presence, and peace in their gaze and interactions. Eric encourages embracing the paradox of the Christian life where God's standards differ from the world’s, seeking to hear, “Behold, you are fair, my love.”

4 Danger of Distractions [Part 2] | Living Incense

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the challenges of balancing spiritual life with daily responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God’s presence in all aspects of life—whether at work, church, or home. He discusses practical ways to incorporate prayer and spiritual practices into busy schedules, like listening to sermons or praying the Jesus Prayer during everyday tasks.Fr. Matthias highlights the significance of aligning personal goals with God’s will and recognizing spiritual growth as a gradual journey rather than an instant outcome. He stresses the value of accountability through confession and community support, encouraging active service within the church as a form of spiritual expression.By addressing distractions and time management from both a secular and spiritual perspective, Fr. Matthias offers guidance on maintaining inner peace and nurturing a closer relationship with Christ through consistent spiritual discipline and fellowship.

Jonah the Prophet [Part 2] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this continuation of the series on Jonah the Prophet, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores God's sovereignty over creation as revealed through Jonah’s story. He examines Jonah’s resistance to God’s command to preach to Nineveh, contrasting Jonah’s apathy with the pagan sailors’ active efforts to survive the storm. Fr. Matthias highlights Jonah’s spiritual numbness, depression, and lack of compassion that lead him to isolate himself rather than seek God’s help.The talk delves into Jonah’s realization of his inner failings, the sailors’ recognition of God’s power, and the unfolding divine plan through the prepared great fish. Fr. Matthias draws connections between Jonah’s prayer from the fish’s belly and the hope of resurrection, emphasizing faith and thanksgiving even amidst suffering. This message encourages believers to respond faithfully to God’s call, embrace transformation through trials, and trust in God’s mercy and salvation.

The Glory of God | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of the glory of God through the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, highlighting its biblical foundations and spiritual significance. He discusses the role of Simeon the Elder and the prophecy revealing Christ as the light for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. Fr. Matthias examines how God's glory is shown in scripture through creation, miracles like healing the man born blind, and the deliverance of Israel from Egypt.He emphasizes that God's glory is not for self-exaltation but so that people may believe and receive salvation. Fr. Matthias encourages believers to reflect on how their lives can glorify God through obedience, faith, compassion, and perseverance in suffering, citing the example of the Coptic martyrs. He also addresses the importance of forgiveness and prayer in manifesting God's glory and calls Christians to live in a way that draws others to glorify God through their witness and good works.

4 Danger of Distractions [Part 1] | Living Incense

In this episode of Living Incense, we reflect on how the ordinary rhythms of modern life—work, responsibilities, screens, and constant busyness—quietly shape our priorities and often crowd out our spiritual life without us realizing it. What begins as necessary activity can easily turn into distraction when balance is lost, even when the things occupying our time appear good or productive.The conversation explores what truly defines a distraction, emphasizing that the issue is not time alone, but intention, balance, and the ongoing tension between the spirit and the flesh. We discuss how spiritual life cannot be reduced to a fixed formula or percentage of the day, but must be lived wisely within each person’s responsibilities, while still protecting intentional, consecrated time with God.We also examine inner peace from a Christian perspective, not as the absence of struggle or emotion, but as the fruit of trusting God and remaining rooted in Him through both ease and suffering. Drawing from Scripture and lived experience, the episode highlights why spiritual growth is gradual, why consistency matters more than visible results, and how God often works quietly over time to form us.Finally, we speak about recovery when spiritual rhythms break down, the importance of accountability through a father of confession, and the role of the Church as a supportive community that helps us carry one another’s burdens. This episode offers encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed, reminding us that the spiritual life is a journey of faithfulness and return, not perfection.

To the Glory of God | The Harvest (Michael Sedrak)

Michael Sedrak explores the meaning of doing everything "to the glory of God," emphasizing the importance of intention behind good works. He distinguishes between external actions and internal motivations, urging believers to serve with sincere hearts, relying fully on God’s grace rather than their own strength.Drawing from Scripture, including St. Paul's letters and the story of Abraham, Michael explains how Christians are called to perform their tasks as God’s workmanship, with humility and trust even when circumstances seem impossible. He highlights the connection between sacrifice and love, warning against a half-hearted or prideful approach to serving God.Michael also reflects on the transformative power of beholding God's glory, as experienced by St. Peter, and encourages believers to continually glorify God for their growth and renewal. His message calls for faith, endurance, and reliance on God in all aspects of life and service.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

”Woe to the World Because of Offenses!” | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad discusses the concept of offenses and stumbling blocks in the Christian life, focusing on their causes and remedies. He explains how distorted portrayals of God and the Church, teaching God's word without living it, promoting human traditions over divine commandments, and neglecting essential doctrines can lead others to stumble. Fr. Matthias also highlights the confusion caused by exposing children to conflicting beliefs and by selectively ignoring Church teachings.He offers remedies such as seeking the true faith through scripture, faithfully following God's commandments despite societal pressure, acknowledging human weakness with humility, and diligently verifying teachings against the Bible. Fr. Matthias calls believers to be examples of faith and light amid a perverse world, guiding others to salvation through their unity, obedience, and authentic Christian witness.Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhoustonFollow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhoustonFollow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhoustonVisit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org