St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

The Life of St. Mark the Evangelist [Part 1] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the life and ministry of St. Mark the Evangelist, the founder of the Coptic Church in Egypt. He discusses St. Mark’s Jewish background, his family’s connection to early Christians, and his mixed names, John and Mark. Fr. Matthias traces St. Mark’s birthplace in Libya and his immigration to Palestine, where he met Christ and witnessed His miracles firsthand.The talk covers St. Mark’s preaching missions that extended beyond Egypt to Asia, Europe, and Africa, his role in establishing the theological School of Alexandria, and his contributions to early Christian liturgy. Fr. Matthias also highlights St. Mark’s association with other apostles, his teaching of both Jews and Gentiles, and his impact on the church’s growth in Alexandria and the five Western cities of Libya.This presentation provides an overview of St. Mark’s evangelism, foundational role in the Coptic Church, and his legacy as an apostle and writer of the Gospel of Mark.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 Upright, St. Joseph the Carpenter | The Harvest (Eric Tadros)

Eric Tadros explores the life of St. Joseph the Carpenter, highlighting his role as the guardian and protector of the Holy Family. Eric emphasizes Joseph’s obedience, faithfulness, and humility, drawing from scriptural references in Matthew and Luke. He explains Joseph’s self-restraint, gentleness, and silence, showing how these virtues reflect his submission to God’s will and his protection of Mary and Jesus.Eric discusses the cultural and historical context surrounding Joseph’s life, including his age, occupation, and modest means, and how God chose him for his heart rather than worldly status. He reflects on the spiritual lessons of Joseph’s response to difficult circumstances, encouraging listeners to embrace obedience and faithfulness in their own lives as Joseph did in simple daily actions.This talk offers insights on fatherhood, humility, and walking in God’s plan through the example of St. Joseph.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

Meditation in Prayer [Part 4] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this talk, Fr. Matthias Shehad concludes his series on meditation in prayer, drawing from the teachings of Fr. Matthew the Poor. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of establishing a consistent prayer rule, tailored with guidance from a spiritual father, to maintain perseverance regardless of fluctuating emotions. He discusses the distinction between quantity and quality in prayer, encouraging deeper engagement with the meaning of prayers rather than mere repetition. Fr. Matthias highlights the role of perseverance and sacrifice in spiritual growth, using biblical examples like Bartimaeus and Zacchaeus to illustrate persistence in seeking God.He also explores the complex relationship between the body and spirit, referencing the Ladder of Divine Ascent on mastering self-control amid internal struggles. This reflection underscores prayer as a spiritual battle requiring patience and humility, where progress is often hidden to guard against pride. The message calls believers to embrace prayer as a vital, challenging journey toward transformation and closer communion with 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

Meditation in Prayer [Part 3] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this continuation of his series on meditation in prayer, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the distinction between vocal prayer, meditation on scripture, and contemplation. Drawing from Orthodox teachings and the writings of Isaac the Syrian, Fr. Matthias explains how deep meditation on the Word of God helps the mind master distractions and confusion, strengthening faith and understanding.He addresses challenges faced when encountering opposing views or false teachings, emphasizing the importance of grounding oneself in scripture with humility and faith. Fr. Matthias highlights how meditation nurtures perseverance through suffering, keeps the heart focused on God throughout daily life, and guides self-examination against the Gospel’s standards.Practical advice is offered on how to prepare for meditative prayer by calming the mind and resisting distractions, encouraging intentionality and alertness to maintain focus. This talk also touches on discerning spiritual influences and rejecting superficial approaches to faith, aiming to cultivate a prayer life rooted in the love and knowledge of Christ.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

Joy That Leaps for the Lord | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad reflects on the joy experienced by St. John the Baptist even before his birth and by St. Mary during her visit to St. Elizabeth. He connects this joy to the broader theme of salvation and redemption brought through Christ’s Incarnation. Fr. Matthias explores how believers often struggle to embrace this joy amid life’s trials and encourages focusing on the hope and eternal joy promised by God.Fr. Matthias also discusses biblical examples of rejoicing, such as King David dancing before the Ark of the Covenant and the celebration of a repentant sinner in the parable of the Prodigal Son. He highlights the importance of recognizing God’s work in our lives, the world, and the lives of others while trusting that suffering can lead to spiritual growth and deeper faith. The message invites viewers to cultivate enduring joy rooted in faith and salvation.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 Submission to God’s Will | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the power of submitting to God’s will through the example of St. Mary’s response to the Annunciation. He emphasizes that submission to God's plan often involves sacrifice, faith beyond understanding, and trust in God’s presence, even amid fear and uncertainty. Drawing parallels to biblical figures like Moses, Esther, Joshua, and the apostles, Fr. Matthias highlights how God empowers those He calls, despite their human weaknesses.He explains that true submission requires counting the cost and embracing challenges, with the assurance that God’s Holy Spirit accompanies and strengthens us. St. Mary’s willingness to accept God’s plan, despite its difficulties, serves as a model for believers to trust and faithfully follow God’s direction, knowing that submission ultimately bears fruit and impacts generations. Fr. Matthias encourages a joyful, patient, and faithful submission to God’s will in our own lives.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

When God Breaks the Silence | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of God breaking His silence after long periods of waiting, focusing on the Annunciation of the birth of St. John the Baptist. He discusses biblical examples such as Abraham and Sarah waiting on God’s promise, the Israelites’ prolonged suffering in Egypt before their deliverance, and Hannah’s persistent prayers for a child. Fr. Matthias examines the purpose behind these silent periods, emphasizing that God’s timing encourages growth in faith, resilience, and hope. He highlights that unanswered prayers may lead to contentment and trust in God’s greater plan. Using the story of the moving mountain, Fr. Matthias invites viewers to expand their faith and ask God for the impossible, trusting in His power to answer beyond human imagination. This sermon encourages perseverance in prayer and confidence in God’s work during times of waiting.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

Responding to God’s Call | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of responding to God's call by examining key biblical figures and their examples of faith. He discusses Abraham’s obedience despite uncertainty, Moses’ doubt and God’s reassurance, and Samuel’s attentiveness to hearing God’s voice. Fr. Matthias also reflects on Jonah’s struggle with resistance and eventual submission, and Isaiah’s willingness to serve despite sacrifices. Central to the message is St. Mary’s complete submission to God’s plan as the mother of Christ, illustrating perfect obedience and trust.Fr. Matthias emphasizes trusting God’s timing, listening for His voice amid distractions, and embracing God’s will even when it requires sacrifice or leads to the unknown. This teaching encourages believers to say “yes” to God’s call with faith, readiness, and surrender, trusting in His guidance and promises.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

How to Sell All We Have? | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the story of the Rich Young Ruler to reveal the deeper meaning of “selling all we have” as a call to forsake our personal will rather than merely giving up material possessions. Fr. Matthias explains that true discipleship involves humility, obedience, and surrendering our desires to align with God’s will, following Christ’s example of self-emptying.He highlights lessons from Scripture and the lives of biblical servants like Elijah, emphasizing the need to reject our own wisdom, leave justice to God, forgive others, and accept suffering as part of God’s refining work. Fr. Matthias challenges listeners to examine what they cling to that hinders their spiritual growth and the coming of God’s kingdom on earth. This message invites reflection on living a faith rooted in trust and surrender rather than control or self-centered plans.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

Cultivating a Heart for God | Sermon (Fr. Makary Boutros of@StMarkHTX)

Fr. Makary Boutros explores the Parable of the Sower from the Gospel of Matthew, drawing connections between the agricultural season and the spiritual sowing of God’s word in our hearts. He explains the symbolism of the boat as the Church and how Jesus meets us to transform our nature.Fr. Makary outlines the four types of soil representing different responses to God’s word: the wayside, the rocky ground, the thorny soil, and the good soil. He highlights how hardness, superficial faith, worldly worries, and the love of riches can choke spiritual growth. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating a heart that yields fruit by embracing God’s word deeply, resisting distractions, and relying on Christ's sacrifice for our weaknesses. Through prayer, sacraments, and repentance, believers can become good soil, producing spiritual fruit in varying measure, according to their openness to God’s 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