St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

An Acceptable Fast | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explains the true meaning of an acceptable fast beyond simply changing one’s diet. He emphasizes that fasting should be done solely for God’s sake, with repentance, and according to the Church’s guidance. Fr. Matthias highlights fasting as a time for self-examination, confession, and spiritual renewal.He discusses fasting as a joyful, spiritual discipline that leads to self-control, breaking the bonds of sin, serving others, and supplicating God with sincere requests. Fr. Matthias also explains how fasting helps in making important life decisions by seeking God’s guidance. This message encourages believers to approach fasting with a heart focused on growth in faith, love, and holiness rather than mere external observance, fostering a lasting spiritual transformation.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

Harmony of the Gospels [Miracles of Christ [Pt3] & 12 Disciples] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the Bible study on the Harmony of the Gospels by exploring several miracles of Christ found in the Gospel of Matthew and the calling of the 12 disciples. He examines Jesus healing two blind men and a demon-possessed mute man, highlighting the importance of faith in receiving healing and forgiveness. Fr. Matthias explains the spiritual significance behind Jesus forgiving the sins of a paralytic before healing him physically, emphasizing the priority of spiritual salvation over physical needs.He also discusses the calling of Matthew the tax collector, showing how Jesus reached out to sinners and the response of the Pharisees. Fr. Matthias addresses the question of fasting, explaining its connection to Jesus’ presence as the bridegroom and the shift from Old Testament practices to the New Covenant. The talk encourages persistence in prayer, faith in God’s power and mercy, and embracing the spiritual transformation Jesus offers.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

Harmony of the Gospels [Miracles of Christ [Part 2]] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his Bible study on the harmony of the Gospels by exploring several miracles of Christ recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. He discusses the challenges of Gospel chronology and how the Evangelists present miracles thematically rather than strictly sequentially. Fr. Matthias examines Jesus calming the storm, revealing lessons on faith amid fear and trusting God’s presence even when He seems silent.He explains the background and role of the scribes and Pharisees, highlighting their legalistic approach that contrasted with Christ’s message. The episode also covers the deliverance of demon-possessed men in the region of the Gergesenes, illustrating the nature of demonic possession and Christ’s authority over evil spirits.Fr. Matthias then details the healing of a woman with a twelve-year flow of blood and the raising of Jairus’s daughter, emphasizing faith as the key to receiving Christ’s healing power. Throughout, reflections connect these miracles to practical faith challenges faced by believers today.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

Harmony of the Gospels [Miracles of Christ [Part 1]] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels by examining the early miracles of Christ recorded across different accounts. He discusses key miracles such as the healing of the nobleman’s son at Capernaum, the casting out of a demon-possessed man in the synagogue, the healing of Simon Peter’s mother-in-law, and the cleansing of a leper. Fr. Matthias explains the significance of Jesus’ authority in teaching and miracles, the role of faith in healing, and the deeper spiritual meanings behind these events. He also addresses how Christ balanced his healing ministry with his mission to preach the kingdom of God, emphasizing the importance of prayer, faith, and understanding Old Testament law fulfillment. The discussion includes insights on demon possession, the nature of Christ’s miracles, and how the public’s response to Jesus evolved during his ministry.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

Harmony of the Gospels [Baptist in Prison & Nazareth Synagogue] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels through Christ’s return to Galilee, His encounter in the synagogue at Nazareth, and the calling of the first apostles. Fr. Matthias explains the historical and spiritual significance of the synagogue as a place of assembly and scripture reading, contrasting it with the Old Testament sacrificial system. He examines Jesus’ proclamation of His mission by reading from Isaiah 61, emphasizing His role as the Anointed One bringing spiritual liberation and the “acceptable year of the Lord,” understood as an eternal Jubilee.Fr. Matthias also discusses the skepticism Jesus faced in His hometown and the reasons for people’s rejection of Him. He then details the calling of fishermen Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John, highlighting their immediate response to follow Jesus and the transformative nature of their calling. This study looks at themes of faith, submission, and the true value of discipleship grounded in service and trust in God’s plan.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

Discipleship | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of discipleship according to the teachings of Jesus Christ. He explains that being a true disciple requires carrying one's cross, which involves self-discipline, repentance, and perseverance despite the challenges faced in life. Fr. Matthias clarifies the call to prioritize commitment to God above all relationships and examines the spiritual battle believers face against unseen forces of evil.He emphasizes the importance of planning and understanding the cost of following Christ, likening discipleship to building a tower or preparing for war. Fr. Matthias stresses that victory in this spiritual war is only possible through God’s help and calls for vigilance and continual reliance on prayer, confession, and faith. The message encourages believers to remain steadfast, recognizing the reality of the spiritual struggle and seeking God’s protection.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

Prioritizing a Relationship with God | SA&SP (Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry of @StMarkHTX)

Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry explores how marriage transforms a personal relationship with God into a shared spiritual journey between spouses. He contrasts societal views of marriage as a contract with the Church’s understanding of it as a sacred covenant and one of the seven sacraments designed to unite couples with God.Fr. Polycarpus emphasizes prioritizing a relationship with God within marriage, encouraging couples to view their union as a path from Earth to Heaven, supported by prayer, mutual support, and self-sacrifice. He discusses the importance of embracing each other's hidden traits, growing together in virtue, and maintaining unity through shared spiritual goals.Using scriptural and theological insights, including quotes from Church Fathers and psychological concepts like Carl Jung’s shadow and persona, Fr. Polycarpus guides couples to transform everyday challenges into opportunities for spiritual growth and martyrdom within marriage. This talk encourages couples to cultivate harmony, love, and faith as essential elements in fulfilling their covenant before God.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

Internal Peace | The Harvest (Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry)

In this talk, Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry explores the theme of internal peace and spiritual balance. He compares the loss of physical balance to disturbances in our spiritual lives caused by sin, negativity, and external challenges. Fr. Polycarpus encourages holding firmly to the promises of God as a source of stability and peace, drawing on the example from Song of Songs where the soul searches for and ultimately clings to its beloved.He illustrates the importance of trusting God’s words and resting in His promises, even when circumstances feel uncertain. Fr. Polycarpus also highlights how maintaining positive speech and mindset influences inner peace, reminding listeners that what fills the heart will reflect in their words. The talk concludes with a prayer for God’s peace, guidance, and a hopeful outlook through faith and trust in God’s fatherly care.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

”Pamper Your Child and Later He Will Terrify You” | St.Monica Parenting Meeting (Fr. Younan William)

In this St. Monica Parenting Meeting, Fr. Younan William explores the challenges of balanced parenting based on a verse from the book of Sirach. Fr. Younan discusses the dangers of extreme leniency and harshness in raising children, emphasizing the need for a middle ground that combines love with discipline, nurturing with structure, and freedom with boundaries.He explains how parents can maintain this balance by using authority, persuasion, love, and prayer while respecting children’s free will and preparing them for independence. Fr. Younan draws from biblical examples and personal experiences to highlight the importance of consistent rules, teaching obedience, and fostering a healthy relationship with church authority.The talk addresses common struggles such as parental guilt, managing misbehavior, and helping children develop spiritual habits without overwhelming them. Fr. Younan concludes by encouraging parents to rely on God’s grace and pray continuously for their children as an essential part of their upbringing.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

Communication in Marriage: Differences Between Men and Women | SA&SP (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this talk, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the communication differences between men and women in marriage, emphasizing how these distinctions impact understanding and conflict resolution. He explains the metaphor of men being like "waffles," compartmentalizing tasks, while women are like "spaghetti," processing life in interconnected ways. Fr. Matthias discusses how men focus on problem-solving and often withdraw into solitude to manage stress, whereas women seek emotional connection through communication.He highlights how these inherent differences affect decision-making, language use, and expressions of self-worth within marriage. Fr. Matthias addresses common misunderstandings that arise when men and women interpret words and intentions differently and stresses the importance of empathy, clear communication, and mutual respect. Through recognizing these differences and working toward compromise, couples can build stronger relationships rooted in love and understanding.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