St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Psalm 19:8-14 [Gods Words Effect & Prayer for Grace] | Bible Study (@MetropolitanYoussef_SUSCopts )

H.G. Metropolitan Youssef presents a detailed Bible study on Psalm 19:8-14, exploring how God's word reveals His holiness, justice, and grace. He explains the titles, descriptions, and effects of God's law, commandments, fear, and judgments, emphasizing their role in guiding, enlightening, and purifying believers. Metropolitan Youssef highlights King David’s reflections on the value of God’s word as more desirable than gold and sweeter than honey, offering warnings and rewarding obedience.The study includes a prayer from David for cleansing from secret faults and protection from willful sins, underscoring the need for divine grace in overcoming sin. It concludes with a reminder that true godliness involves the sanctification of both heart and speech, and closes with a recognition of Christ as Strength and Redeemer, through whom prayers are accepted by God.This teaching deepens understanding of Psalm 19’s spiritual message and its application in the Christian 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

Exodus 20:12-16 [The 5th to 9th Commandments] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad examines Exodus 20:12-16, focusing on the 5th to 9th commandments. He explains the differences in how various Christian traditions number the Ten Commandments and highlights the distinct themes dividing the commandments related to God from those concerning neighborly relationships. Fr. Matthias explores the commandment to honor one’s parents, discussing its unique promise and societal implications, and reflects on obedience both in childhood and adulthood.He addresses the commandment against murder, clarifying the distinction between lawful and unlawful killing and the authority God grants to governments. The talk also covers the commandment against adultery, emphasizing the spiritual and familial impact of sexual immorality, and the importance of maintaining the sanctity of marriage.Fr. Matthias discusses the commandments against stealing and bearing false witness, relating these laws to faith in God’s provision and the pursuit of truth in a society that often disregards it. Throughout, he connects these commandments to practical Christian living, family dynamics, and spiritual integrity.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

Exodus 19:12-20:11 [The 1st to 4th Commandments] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores Exodus 19:12-20:11, focusing on the first four commandments. He begins by reviewing Israel’s arrival at Mount Sinai, God’s covenant, and the significance of physical holiness in Scripture, emphasizing how God imbues physical objects and places, like the mountain and the church, with spiritual importance.Fr. Matthias explains the boundaries God set around Sinai and the preparation required before His revelation. He discusses the difference between Old and New Testament manifestations of God’s presence, highlighting the fear inspired by God’s voice in the Old Testament compared to Christ’s accessibility in the New Testament.The first four commandments are analyzed, showing their role in regulating humanity’s relationship with God. Fr. Matthias clarifies interpretations of the commandments, the meaning behind prohibitions on idols, the importance of reverence for God’s name, and the purpose of the Sabbath. He also addresses common misunderstandings about icons and intercessory prayer in Orthodox Christianity.This study provides foundational insights into the Ten Commandments, God’s covenant, and their spiritual relevance.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

”Mercy and Truth” | The Harvest (Eric Tadros)

Eric Tadros discusses the biblical theme of mercy and truth based on Psalm 85: "Mercy and truth have met together; righteousness and peace have kissed." He explains how this verse prophesies Christ as the fulfillment of both mercy and truth—truth through the Old Testament law and mercy through Christ’s sacrifice. Eric emphasizes that mercy and truth are inseparable; mercy without truth becomes a license to sin, while truth without mercy leads to cruelty.Using examples from the Gospels, including the Samaritan woman, the woman caught in adultery, and the prodigal son, Eric illustrates how Christ balanced truth and mercy. He underlines the importance of self-reflection, confession, and love in applying these principles in personal relationships and society. Eric encourages believers to follow Christ’s example, offering mercy with discernment while upholding the truth to foster repentance and spiritual growth.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 Virgin St. Mary in the Coptic Rites | Bible Study (Gerges Gad)

In this Bible study, Gerges Gad explores the role of the Virgin St. Mary within the Coptic rites, emphasizing her unique position as the Theotokos or Mother of God. Gerges discusses the significance of the Virgin Mary fast, her appearance in daily prayers and hymns, and her veneration distinct from worship. He explains her depiction in icons, her place in liturgical practices such as the Agbaya prayers, incense offerings, and the Holy Matrimony sacrament.Gerges also examines theological aspects, including the title Theotokos affirmed at the Council of Ephesus, and contrasts Orthodox views with Catholic and Protestant perspectives on Mary. He highlights Marian symbolism in the liturgy, the connection to Christ's incarnation, and the theological meaning behind hymns and rituals involving her.This study offers an in-depth look at Marian devotion in the Coptic Orthodox tradition and the integration of her veneration into worship and sacramental 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 Does Ecclesiastes 3:1 Mean? | Q&A (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of Ecclesiastes 3:1, emphasizing the concept of life's seasons and their divine purpose. He explains how understanding these seasons can help believers navigate both joyful and challenging times, highlighting lessons such as the importance of patience, planning, and spiritual growth.Fr. Matthias also addresses related biblical questions, including the significance of Old Testament laws on mixing seeds and fabrics as a call for spiritual purity and separation from worldly influences. He discusses the necessity of attending liturgy to fully partake in communion, emphasizing the communal and transformative nature of worship. Additional topics include the meaning behind Psalm 70’s “Aha” expression of triumph, the offense some experienced to Christ’s message, the reason Mary Magdalene was told not to touch the risen Christ, and how to balance assertiveness with humility based on scriptural guidance.This session offers biblical insights on faith, obedience, and practical Christian living.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 of Incense | Bible Study (Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry)

In this Bible study, Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry explores the biblical foundation and rich symbolism behind the raising of incense during Vespers and Matins in the Coptic Orthodox tradition. He guides viewers through the structure of these services, focusing on the prayer of incense, its historical practice, and deep roots in Scripture, particularly the Old Testament offerings from Numbers 28-29.Fr. Polycarpus explains how these offerings relate to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice and the ongoing spiritual practice of offering ourselves as living sacrifices in repentance. He highlights the procession of incense, the intercession of saints, and the connection between the daily burnt offerings and our personal prayers of repentance. The study also clarifies how these practices prepare believers for the Eucharist and foster continual repentance and communion with God.This teaching invites reflection on the meaning and importance of Vespers and Matins as essential parts of daily worship and growth in faith.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

Overview of the Old Testament | Bible Study (Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry)

Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry provides a detailed overview of the Old Testament, tracing its narrative from creation through the major periods of Israelite history. He explains key events including the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, the Exodus led by Moses, the wilderness journey, and the conquest of Canaan. Fr. Polycarpus highlights the establishment of the priesthood and the significance of the Old Testament laws and sacrifices as foundations for understanding the New Testament.He explores the division of the kingdom into Israel (north) and Judah (south), discussing the succession of kings in both kingdoms, their spiritual and political struggles, and the role of prophets such as Elijah, Elisha, Amos, and Hosea. The lecture covers the spiritual decline leading to the exile under Assyria and Babylon, and the eventual return and restoration efforts led by figures like Nehemiah.Fr. Polycarpus emphasizes the value of studying the Old Testament as a guide to the New Testament, providing historical context and enhancing comprehension of biblical themes, liturgy, and the mindset of the disciples.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

Definitions | Leadership (Fr. Younan William)

Fr. Younan William explores the concept and practical dimensions of leadership, emphasizing its foundational role in any organization, including the church. He reviews several definitions of leadership by notable figures like John Maxwell, highlighting that leadership begins with self-leadership and extends through influence, vision, and hope.Fr. Younan explains the five levels of leadership, from positional authority to personal influence, illustrating how true leadership grows through permission, production, and people development. He stresses that effective leaders balance relationships, results, and empowerment to sustain organizational growth. Using biblical references and modern examples, he shows leadership as a call to serve, develop others, and foster trust and cohesion.The talk examines different leadership styles and the need for flexibility depending on the situation. Fr. Younan also discusses common pitfalls in leadership, such as insecurity, control, and failure to delegate. He encourages leaders to cultivate humility, vision, and a commitment to developing those they lead.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

Teach the Joy of Repentance | The ARK (Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry)

Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry discusses the importance of teaching children the joy of repentance within the family. He explores the purpose of repentance, emphasizing that its true goal is union with God rather than simply discipline, remorse, or confession. Fr. Polycarpus highlights how parents must model repentance and maintain a spiritual life centered on the Holy Spirit to nurture this practice in their children.He addresses real-life parenting situations, such as children witnessing conflicts and the role of apology and forgiveness, stressing that repentance should lead to unity and ongoing growth rather than punishment alone. Fr. Polycarpus also explains the significance of cultivating a household culture of repentance and confession, connecting it to church life and encouraging families to integrate these habits through prayer and forgiveness.This talk offers practical insights into raising children in a faith-filled environment where repentance is lived and taught as a central spiritual discipline.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