St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Harmony of the Gospels [The Anointing of Mary] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his study on the harmony of the Gospels by exploring the events around Lazarus Saturday and the anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany. He explains the significance of Lazarus’s resurrection as a foreshadowing of Christ’s own resurrection and discusses the division among the Jewish people and religious leaders in response to Jesus’s miracles. Fr. Matthias examines the motives behind the Sanhedrin’s plot to kill Jesus, highlighting the political concerns of the Pharisees and the fulfillment of prophecy through Caiaphas’s words. He also unpacks the symbolism of Mary’s costly anointing of Jesus, contrasting it with Judas Iscariot’s criticism, and reflects on the importance of faith and genuine sacrifice. The talk connects Old Testament traditions like the Passover and tithing with their New Testament fulfillment in Christ’s sacrifice, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over human plans and the extension of salvation beyond Israel to all nations.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 Lord Is My Shepherd” | The Harvest (Nagy Wassef)

Nagy Wassef explores the meaning of Psalm 23, emphasizing God's ongoing presence as "my shepherd" who meets all our needs daily. Drawing parallels between David’s experience as a shepherd and our relationship with God, he highlights the dependence and vulnerability of sheep as metaphors for human life. Nagy discusses how God leads us beside still waters, restores our souls, and protects us against life’s challenges with his rod and staff.He explains key verses, including the present tense nature of God’s care, the importance of trusting God even through life’s valleys, and the overflowing blessings symbolized by “my cup runs over.” Through biblical stories and practical reflections, Nagy encourages cultivating a personal relationship with God, recognizing his guidance in both big and small moments, and trusting in his lifelong faithfulness. This talk offers a detailed look at Psalm 23’s themes of protection, provision, and spiritual restoration.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 Story of the Lord Christ and the Samaritan Woman | The Harvest (Michael Sedrak)

Michael Sedrak explores the story of the Samaritan woman and Lord Jesus Christ, focusing on the themes of salvation, patience, and human response to God’s invitation. He examines how God's love extends to all, regardless of sin or background, emphasizing that both the sinner’s repentance and God’s outreach are essential for salvation. Sedrak highlights the historical animosity between Jews and Samaritans to underscore the significance of Christ’s encounter with the Samaritan woman.Drawing from scripture and teachings of Pope Shenouda, he reflects on God’s gentleness in dealing with sinners and the transformation that follows sincere human response. Sedrak also discusses how strong personalities, like the Samaritan woman’s, can be used by God for His kingdom when redirected. He encourages listeners to remain patient and prayerful for those who have yet to embrace salvation, trusting in God’s timing and mercy.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

Hearing God: How’s Your Hearing!? | Sermon (Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry of @StMarkHTX)

Fr. Polycarpus Shoukry explores the vital theme of hearing God and how it shapes spiritual transformation. Drawing from Gospel accounts such as the paralytic healed through faith and St. Peter’s experience casting nets, he emphasizes the need not just to hear but to truly listen and abide by God’s word.He discusses the parable of the sower, highlighting how the condition of our hearts affects our reception and fruitfulness from God’s message. Fr. Polycarpus challenges believers to focus amid distractions and approach Scripture with patience, attention, and a desire to understand beyond surface-level reading.Reflecting on the demands of a fast-paced world, he calls for a deliberate, patient commitment to Scripture—recognizing its value as a gift offered through Christ’s sacrifice. The message invites listeners to tune their spiritual ears, cultivate a receptive heart, and allow God’s word to take root and bear fruit in daily 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

Thanksgiving in the Life of Hannah | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of thanksgiving through the story of Hannah, the mother of Samuel, highlighting how she navigated sorrow, prayer, and faith despite her barrenness. He discusses Hannah’s personal pain, the provocation from her rival, and how she turned to honest prayer rather than bitterness or escape. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer, trust in God’s wisdom, and finding peace in His presence regardless of whether prayers are immediately answered.The talk delves into the spiritual significance of free will, God’s protection, and the purpose behind suffering. Drawing lessons from Hannah’s vow and Eli’s blessing, Fr. Matthias encourages embracing patience, contentment, and a deepened relationship with God. This Bible study offers reflections on faith, repentance, and the transformative power of prayer in the midst of trials.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

Emotional Support in the Christian Marriage | SA&SP Couple’s Meeting (Dr. Abraham Ghattas)

Dr. Abraham Ghattas explores emotional support within Christian marriage, emphasizing the unity and one-flesh principle between spouses inspired by Christ’s incarnate nature. He connects theological foundations to practical relationship dynamics, highlighting the importance of emotional maturity alongside spiritual growth. Ghattas discusses common causes of emotional distress, including personality differences, past trauma, mental health, and unmet emotional needs.He addresses misconceptions such as trying to change one’s spouse or expecting transactional love, advocating instead for love rooted in humility, understanding, and mutual support. Communication strategies, active listening, and recognizing defense mechanisms are explained as vital tools for supporting a spouse emotionally.Dr. Ghattas encourages couples to cultivate honesty, develop a shared “rule of life,” and balance prayer with practical actions. The talk offers a grounded approach to nurturing emotional intimacy, emphasizing ongoing personal growth and the interdependence of spiritual and emotional health in marriage.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 [Zacchaeus & The Minas Parable] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores key Gospel passages focusing on faith, perseverance, and repentance through stories like the healing of the blind men in Jericho, the encounter with Zacchaeus, and the parable of the minas. He examines how faith enables believers to overcome obstacles in their spiritual journey, emphasizing the importance of persistent prayer and action.Fr. Matthias highlights Christ’s compassion shown in healing and personal outreach, illustrating how God knows each individual by name and calls each to repentance and transformation. The discussion includes the significance of using God-given talents wisely until Christ’s return, and the consequences of rejecting God's authority.This Bible study provides insights into the harmony of the Gospels and practical lessons on living out faith actively, even amid trials, preparing believers for the approach of Holy Week.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 [The Parable of the 11th Hour Workers] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the Parable of the Workers of the 11th Hour from the Gospel of Matthew, focusing on its teaching about God’s mercy and the reversal of worldly values in the kingdom of heaven. He explains how the parable illustrates God’s willingness to welcome and reward those who come to Him late in life just as generously as those who have served Him from the beginning. Fr. Matthias connects this lesson to the attitudes of the first workers and the need for humility, mercy, and service in the Christian life. He also discusses Jesus’ foreknowledge of His suffering and death as the Son of Man, and how true greatness in God’s kingdom is about servanthood, not earthly power.This Bible study emphasizes faith, salvation, and the contrast between human expectations and God’s ways as revealed in the Gospels.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 [Infants Brought to Jesus & Rich Ruler] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels through the stories of infants brought to Jesus and the encounter with the rich young ruler. He explains how Jesus welcomes children as examples of the humility and faith needed to enter the kingdom of God, emphasizing childlike trust and innocence as spiritual qualities.Fr. Matthias then examines the rich young ruler’s question on inheriting eternal life, highlighting Jesus’ call to keep the commandments and the challenge of detachment from wealth. He discusses the disciple’s invitation to sell possessions and follow Christ, illustrating the struggle between earthly attachments and spiritual commitment.This Bible study addresses discipleship, the dangers of material attachment, and the importance of faith and surrender in the Christian life. Fr. Matthias also reflects on the rewards and challenges of following Christ, including enduring persecution and sacrificing for eternal treasure.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

”Bring Every Thought Into Captivity” | The Harvest (Eric Tadros)

In his talk “Bring Every Thought Into Captivity,” Eric Tadros explores how thoughts influence our behavior and spiritual life, highlighting common cognitive distortions such as mind reading, catastrophizing, emotional reasoning, labeling, and overgeneralization. He explains how these distorted thoughts contribute to fear, anxiety, and sin, using biblical examples like the woman with the flow of blood and Elijah’s despair to illustrate their impact.Eric emphasizes the importance of recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns to prevent them from controlling our lives. Drawing from scripture, he connects the spiritual battle to controlling thoughts and aligning them with Christ’s obedience. He also discusses how emotions can mislead us and stresses the value of cultivating a disciplined spiritual life beyond feelings.Through practical advice and scriptural reflections, Eric calls listeners to bring every thought into captivity to foster mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.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