St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Submitting to the Will of God | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of submitting to the will of God through the lens of the Feast of the Annunciation. He reflects on St. Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan, emphasizing her faith and obedience despite the hardships she endured. Fr. Matthias highlights biblical examples of submission from Abraham, Moses, Caleb, David, and the disciples, illustrating how surrendering personal plans leads to spiritual fulfillment and participation in God’s greater purpose.The sermon addresses the challenges of trusting God's direction over our own desires and underscores that faith, not knowledge, defines true servanthood. Fr. Matthias encourages believers to embrace obedience without full understanding, trusting that God’s plan is ultimately for their good. This message invites viewers to reflect on how they respond to God’s calling in their own lives, promoting a deeper commitment to faith and trust.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

Leviticus 25-27 [Jubilee ➕ Blessing & Punishment ➕ Gifts to God] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad concludes the Book of Leviticus by exploring chapters 25 to 27, focusing on the laws of the Sabbath years, the Year of Jubilee, and their significance for land ownership, slavery, and social justice among the Israelites. He explains how the Sabbatical year provides rest for the land and care for the poor, while the Jubilee restores property and freedom, underscoring God’s ownership of the land and provision for equity.Fr. Matthias also discusses the blessings promised for obedience and the curses for disobedience, illustrating God's discipline as a form of correction for His people. Finally, he examines the regulations on vows and offerings to God, detailing how vows could be redeemed and the sacredness of firstborn animals and tithes. The teaching connects Old Testament laws to spiritual principles of stewardship, justice, and faithfulness.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

Leviticus 23-24 [Feasts & Blasphemy] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad examines Leviticus chapters 23 and 24, focusing on the feasts commanded by God and the serious consequences of blasphemy. Fr. Matthias explains the significance of the Sabbath as a feast day and explores the Jewish feasts such as Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of First Fruits, Pentecost, the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles. He highlights how these feasts relate to the agricultural cycle and their spiritual meaning in both the Old and New Testament contexts. Fr. Matthias also discusses the change of Sabbath observance to Sunday in Christian tradition and clarifies the church’s authority in interpreting these laws. The study concludes with the story of the blasphemer and the justice it represents, linking it to God’s judgment and mercy. This teaching offers a connection between Old Testament feasts and Christian faith practices.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

Parenting the Strong-Willed Child | St. Monica Parenting Meeting (Dr. Abraham Ghattas)

Dr. Abraham Ghattas addresses the challenges and blessings of parenting a strong-willed child in this St. Monica Parenting Meeting. He explores how traits like determination, assertiveness, and emotional intensity, while difficult at times, can be strengths that contribute to spiritual growth and saintly character formation. Dr. Ghattas integrates scripture, including insights from St. John and biblical figures such as King David and St. Peter, emphasizing that parenting is a spiritual journey aimed at nurturing mature Christians.He discusses practical strategies such as choosing battles wisely, setting clear and consistent boundaries, providing children with autonomy through choices, and using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Dr. Ghattas also highlights the importance of self-reflection for parents, managing worry, and maintaining peace in the household. He encourages viewing parenting challenges through a spiritual lens, trusting God’s role in raising children, and relying on faith to support both parent and child.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 Parables of Comparison | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores several parables that highlight contrasts between attitudes and behaviors in the Christian life. Starting with the Parable of the Prodigal Son, he contrasts the mercy extended to the repentant younger son with the bitterness of the obedient older brother, emphasizing the value of humility and forgiveness. Fr. Matthias then discusses the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, illustrating the difference between self-righteousness and repentant humility.He also reflects on the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders, urging spiritual preparation on a solid foundation in Christ. The Parable of the Faithful and Evil Servants teaches stewardship and faithfulness during times of waiting. Further parables explore obedience versus empty words and the depth of love that comes from recognizing one’s need for God’s mercy. Through these comparisons, Fr. Matthias reveals lessons on repentance, mercy, faithfulness, and spiritual self-awareness.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

Taking Responsibility [Part 1] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of taking responsibility and its impact on teamwork and service within the church and workplace. He discusses how every role, no matter how visible or repetitive, is essential to the success of the whole system, using examples from church ministries and the story of Moses.Fr. Matthias addresses common reactions to responsibility, such as making excuses, doubting abilities, delegating to others, or accepting tasks without follow-through. He highlights the importance of accountability, communication, and realistic planning in fulfilling duties effectively.Through practical examples, Fr. Matthias emphasizes that understanding the value of one’s role motivates faithful execution, and leadership involves coordinating and encouraging collective effort. This talk sets the foundation for how personality and teamwork influence accomplishing goals, with a promise to explore these themes further in a follow-up session.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

Lessons from the Life of Hosea [Part 3] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this teaching, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores lessons from the life of Hosea, focusing on key spiritual truths such as the fleeting nature of faithfulness and the importance of relying solely on God for help. He examines the metaphor of fallow ground to highlight the need for cultivating our God-given talents and serving Him genuinely. Fr. Matthias reflects on God’s longsuffering and compassion despite human sinfulness, emphasizing that divine discipline is motivated by love rather than judgment.Drawing from Hosea’s story and biblical examples like St. Mary of Egypt, he discusses true sanctification as a gradual process requiring sincere repentance, persistent effort, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Fr. Matthias encourages believers to embrace spiritual struggle and sacrifice as necessary steps toward transformation and growth in holiness. This message invites viewers to renew their commitment to God and understand the depth of His mercy and patience.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

Lessons from the Life of Hosea [Part 2] | The Harvest (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this continuation of his series on the life of the prophet Hosea, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores key spiritual lessons drawn from Hosea’s message to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Fr. Matthias discusses how the Israelites sought help from other nations instead of God, illustrating the futility of trying to outsmart divine justice and the importance of turning to God as our true source of help.He emphasizes that disobedience to God carries real consequences, despite God’s mercy and numerous warnings. Fr. Matthias also explains the concept of “fallow ground” as the neglected soul, urging believers to cultivate righteousness through repentance and spiritual effort. He distinguishes between merely calling on God in times of trouble and truly exalting Him as the center of life. Drawing on Scripture, Fr. Matthias warns that external works or miracles mean nothing without a repentant heart and submission to God’s will.This teaching invites reflection on repentance, sincerity in faith, and the readiness to prioritize God over temporary worldly pursuits.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

Lessons from the Temptations of Christ | Sermon (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the lessons from the Temptations of Christ as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. He explains that temptations are allowed by God as a means for spiritual growth and reliance on Him. Fr. Matthias emphasizes that temptations come to everyone, even the strongest and holiest, and often occur during times of weakness, such as fasting. He highlights that God permits these challenges to test, purify, and teach believers to pray with fervency.Fr. Matthias also discusses the reality of spiritual warfare, reminding viewers that the world is a battlefield where the devil seeks to lead believers astray. The temptation of Christ serves as both a model and a warning to remain vigilant and persistent in faith. This message is particularly relevant for those undergoing the Great Fast, encouraging perseverance and dependence on God's mercy throughout spiritual struggles.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

Leviticus 20-22 [Penalties for Lawbreakers & Priests’ Conduct] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his detailed exploration of Leviticus chapters 20 to 22, focusing on the penalties for lawbreakers and the conduct expected of priests. He examines God’s commandments regarding forbidden relationships, idolatry, and ritual purity, emphasizing the serious consequences for those who transgress these laws. Fr. Matthias explains the role and responsibilities of the priests as representatives of Christ, outlining the restrictions placed on them to maintain holiness in their service.He also discusses the significance of distinguishing between clean and unclean, the importance of upholding God’s statutes, and the purpose behind the Old Testament punishments. Fr. Matthias addresses the transition from Old Testament law to New Testament grace, and the ongoing call for accountability within the community. This study offers a comprehensive look at God’s design for holiness and the priestly vocation in the context of covenant faithfulness.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