St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

2nd Maccabees 5-6 [Assault on Jerusalem & Persecuting the Jews] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 2nd Maccabees chapters 5 and 6, detailing the political turmoil and persecution faced by the Jews under Greek rule. He explains the betrayal within Israel that enabled Antiochus IV to attack and desecrate the Temple, highlighting the imposition of Greek culture and pagan practices on the Jewish people. Fr. Matthias examines the conflict for the high priesthood, the brutal suppression of Jewish worship, and the desecration of the Temple by placing idols such as Jupiter inside it.The study also covers the courage of faithful Jews like Eleazar, who chose martyrdom over violating their religious laws, and reflects on God's purpose in allowing these trials as a form of correction rather than destruction. Fr. Matthias connects these events with biblical prophecy and draws parallels to times of tribulation, emphasizing the call to remain steadfast in faith amid persecution.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

2nd Maccabees 3-4 [Heliodorus & Hellenizing Jerusalem] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores chapters 3 and 4 of 2nd Maccabees, focusing on the historical and spiritual events during the Greek conquest of Israel. He details the respect initially shown to the Jewish temple by King Solus IV and the later internal betrayal by Simon from the Tribe of Benjamin, which opened the door for the desecration of the temple’s treasury by Heliodes under royal orders.Fr. Matthias explains the divine intervention that saved the temple’s wealth, the corruption and factionalism within the Jewish leadership, and the rise of Hellenizing influences under Jason, who purchased the high priesthood. The discussion covers the conflict between traditional Jewish practices and Greek customs, the bribery and violence involving the high priesthood, and the eventual assassination of the righteous High Priest Onias III.This study sheds light on the cultural and political struggles that shaped the era leading to Hanukkah, emphasizing the impact of internal division and foreign pressures on Israel’s faith and identity.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

Raising God-Fearing Children | St. Monica Parenting Meeting (Michael Sedrak)

Michael Sedrak presents a detailed discussion on raising God-fearing children rooted in Christian faith and practice. He emphasizes the importance of setting a clear spiritual goal focused on nurturing children who grow in the image of Christ and maintain the grace received in baptism. Michael explores essential parenting principles such as the impact of influences on children, the significance of prayer, the sign of the cross, and the role of Holy Communion in maintaining spiritual growth.He addresses the balance between discipline and warmth, urging parents to engage in one-on-one time with their children to foster trust and love. Michael highlights the crucial qualities of humility and discipleship in both parents and children as foundational for spiritual development and obedience.Drawing on Scripture and teachings from Eastern Church saints, Michael also discusses practical aspects of raising boys and girls, warns against hypocrisy and gossip, and encourages parents to cultivate a vibrant relationship with the Word of God, making it a natural part of family life.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

What Is a Godly Marriage? | SA&SP (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this talk, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the biblical foundation and spiritual meaning of a Godly marriage, emphasizing that marriage was created by God before the fall of man as a union intended for companionship, support, and spiritual growth. He explains how marriage is designed to be a supernatural covenant sustained by the Holy Spirit, with God at its center, and highlights the significance of sacrifice, mutual support, and shared goals rooted in faith.Fr. Matthias discusses common struggles couples face, including internal and external stresses, and stresses the importance of commitment and ongoing sanctification in marriage. He also addresses frequent questions about shifting goals, the role of forgiveness, boundaries with other couples, and the purpose of having children in a Godly marriage. Throughout, he encourages couples to rely on God’s grace and develop habits like prayer, communication, and self-sacrificial love to build a lasting, fulfilling relationship.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

2nd Maccabees 1-2 [The Holy Fire & Jeremiah Hides the Ark] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the Book of 2nd Maccabees, focusing on its historical and spiritual context within the intertestamental period. He explains how this deuterocanonical book, not included in most Protestant Bibles but recognized in Orthodox tradition, presents a theological perspective on the Jewish resistance against the Seleucid Empire and the desecration of the temple.Fr. Matthias traces the background of Antiochus IV Epiphanes’ attempts to Hellenize the Jews and the heroic efforts of the Maccabean family to reclaim and purify the temple, which led to the establishment of the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah). He also discusses how the Prophet Jeremiah hid the Ark of the Covenant and the Tabernacle in a cave to protect them during exile, connecting past and present acts of faithfulness.This study delves into the spiritual significance of these events, highlighting God’s protection over His people and their worship, as well as the importance of remembering the covenant through liturgical traditions.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

2nd Peter 3 [Where Is His Coming?] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study on 2nd Peter 3, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the themes of the second coming of Christ, the warnings about false teachers, and the importance of being prepared for the day of judgment. He emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan from the prophets through the apostles and the need for believers to remain vigilant amidst doubts about Christ’s return. Fr. Matthias explains that God's apparent delay in the second coming is due to His patience, allowing time for repentance.He also discusses the final destruction of the earth and heavens by fire and the promise of a new heaven and new earth where righteousness dwells. Fr. Matthias addresses common questions about judgment, resurrection, and how Christians should live in anticipation of Christ’s return, highlighting the ongoing spiritual struggle and the call to live godly lives. The study concludes with an exhortation to persevere in faith and avoid being led astray by false teachings.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

2nd Peter 1:9-2:22 [Pursue God & False Teachers’ Deceptions] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 2 Peter 1:9-2:22, emphasizing the call for Christians to pursue holiness and spiritual growth through virtues such as faith, perseverance, and love. He explains that genuine faith results in transformation and warns against a superficial Christianity that ignores sanctification.Fr. Matthias addresses the danger of false teachers who distort Scripture for personal gain, leading others astray with destructive heresies. He highlights their characteristics, including pride, covetousness, and ignorance, and underscores the seriousness of divine judgment on such individuals.The teaching also reflects on the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies witnessed by St. Peter, contrasting true apostolic faith with the deceit of false doctrines. Fr. Matthias calls for vigilance in following the apostolic tradition to safeguard the faith and resist spiritual deception.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

2nd Peter 1:1-8 [Partakers of the Divine Nature] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 2nd Peter 1:1-8, focusing on what it means to be partakers of the divine nature. He explains the authorship of the epistle, its original audience, and its purpose as St. Peter’s final encouragement before his death. Fr. Matthias discusses how believers receive divine power through faith and the process of sanctification, highlighting the virtues that grow in a Christian’s life: virtue, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love.He emphasizes the importance of living out faith as a transformation that reflects God’s character, not merely as knowledge or duty. The study also addresses the relationship between faith, diligence, and spiritual growth, encouraging a lifestyle centered on the hope of eternal life and the kingdom of heaven.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

The Power of Our Thoughts Toward Our Partner | SA&SP (Sarah Iskander, PharmD, MS, LPC-A,NCC)

In this talk, Sarah Iskander, PharmD, MS, LPC-A, NCC, explores how the power of our thoughts significantly impacts our relationships with our partners. Sarah begins by explaining the cognitive triangle from cognitive behavioral therapy, showing how thoughts influence feelings and behaviors, shaping marital interactions. She contrasts unhelpful, distress-maintaining thoughts like innocent victimhood and righteous indignation with healthier, compassionate perspectives that foster peace and understanding.Sarah discusses the importance of self-soothing during conflict and encourages replacing negative thoughts with balanced ones to nurture empathy and patience. Drawing on Christian teachings, she highlights how choosing gentleness and self-denial, modeled by Christ, can transform marriages despite struggles. Sarah also emphasizes the role of prayer and spiritual growth in guiding thoughts toward love and unity.This talk offers practical tools and reflections to help couples identify and shift their inner dialogue for stronger, more peaceful marriages aligned with faith and grace.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

1st John 2:7-3 [Christ Is Light and Love] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 1 John 2:7-3, focusing on the commandment of love as both old and new—rooted in Scripture yet fulfilled through Christ’s teachings. He clarifies the call to love as God loves, emphasizing love for others as essential to abiding in the light and fellowship with God and the church. Fr. Matthias discusses the dangers of worldly attachments, sin as lawlessness, and the reality of antichrists who lead believers astray.He addresses different life stages, encouraging children, youth, and elders in their unique spiritual journeys. The meaning of being children of God, surpassing angels and creation, highlights God’s incomprehensible love and our call to purity. Practical love, demonstrated through actions and sacrifice, is central to living out faith. Fr. Matthias concludes with the promise of eternal life for those who keep God’s commandments and abide in the Son and the Father through the Spirit.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