St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Building a Strong Foundation | SA&SP Couples’ Meeting (Fr. Abraam Kamal of@StStephenCypress)

Fr. Abraam Kamal explores the essentials of building a strong foundation in marriage, addressing couples at various stages including engaged and married partners. He begins by linking baptism to marriage, emphasizing that believers are spiritually seated with Christ in heavenly places, which should shape their mindset and actions in marital life.Fr. Abraam explains God’s design for the family based on biblical teachings, clarifying the roles of husband, wife, and the meaning of submission and love within marriage. He highlights that a wife’s submission does not denote inferiority but reflects God’s order, paralleling the relationship within the Trinity. Husbands are called to love their wives sacrificially and purposefully, as Christ loved the church.He stresses the importance of building marriage on biblical principles rather than cultural or secular ideas, encouraging couples to cultivate love, compassion, forgiveness, and spiritual unity. Communication, sacrifice, and spiritual growth are presented as keys to resolving conflicts and fostering a healthy family life grounded 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

Kindness and Compassion of God | The Harvest (Michael Sedrak)

Michael Sedrak explores the compassion and kindness of God, emphasizing how God's nature offers hope and peace in a world that can feel cold and challenging. He reflects on biblical examples such as Christ’s gentle forgiveness toward sinners, the care shown to the Israelites despite their complaints, and the miraculous provision of manna in the wilderness.Michael highlights how believers become temples of the Holy Spirit, sharing in God's glory and kindness. He discusses God’s compassion extending even to animals and creation. Drawing from Scripture, Michael explains how Jesus’ persistent knocking on the door symbolizes God’s ongoing invitation to repentance and relationship.He encourages embracing God’s compassion by loving enemies, praying for those who wrong us, and living with patience and kindness empowered by the Holy Spirit. This teaching invites viewers to trust in God’s mercy and reflect His compassion 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

Harmony of the Gospels [Transfiguration & Greatest in Heaven] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels through the event of the Transfiguration and the teaching on who is greatest in heaven. He explains how Jesus reveals His divinity to Peter, James, and John on the mountain, highlighting the presence of Moses and Elijah as representatives of the Law and the Prophets, showing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy in Christ. Fr. Matthias discusses the significance of God's voice declaring Jesus as His beloved Son and the meaning behind the disciples’ reaction.The study also covers Jesus’ teaching on Elijah’s coming, identifying John the Baptist as the prophetic fulfillment, and addresses the healing of a demon-possessed boy, emphasizing faith, prayer, and fasting. Fr. Matthias clarifies apparent differences in Gospel accounts and underscores the disciples’ struggle to comprehend Jesus’ impending passion and resurrection. This session provides a detailed examination of key Gospel passages linking Old and New Testament revelation.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 [Pharisees’ Leaven & Passion Foretold] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels, focusing on Jesus’ warning about the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees and its spiritual implications. He explains the symbolism of leaven as sin and how exposure to corrupting influences affects believers. Fr. Matthias then examines Peter’s profession of faith, discussing the meaning of “the rock” on which the Church is built, contrasting Orthodox and Catholic interpretations, and clarifying the authority given to the apostles.He further unpacks Christ’s teaching on discipleship, including the cost of self-denial, taking up the cross, and the promise of eternal life. The healing of the blind man in stages is also discussed as a metaphor for gradual spiritual enlightenment. Throughout, Fr. Matthias addresses key Gospel passages, the significance of sacraments, and the nature of Church authority, emphasizing the spiritual depth behind Christ’s words and actions.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 [Vain Worship & Feeding the 4k] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels by examining Jesus’ teachings on vain worship and the feeding of the 4,000. He discusses Christ’s critique of the Pharisees, who prioritized human traditions over God’s commandments, highlighting the belief that true defilement comes from the heart, not external rituals. Fr. Matthias explains the significance of the encounter with the Syro-Phoenician woman, illustrating faith and perseverance beyond ethnic boundaries. He also covers Jesus’ healing miracles among Gentiles, emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies through these acts. The lesson includes a detailed look at the second feeding miracle, drawing parallels with the feeding of the 5,000 to show God’s compassion and provision. Finally, Fr. Matthias addresses the Pharisees and Sadducees’ demand for signs and Jesus’ response about the sign of Jonah’s resurrection, calling attention to spiritual blindness and the difficulty some had recognizing the Messiah.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 in the Digital Age | St. Monica Parenting Meeting (Kristin Assaad)

Kristin Assaad discusses parenting challenges and strategies in the digital age, focusing on screen time, internet access, and smartphone usage for children. Drawing from her experience as a prosecutor and mother, Kristin addresses physical, mental, and spiritual risks associated with digital devices, including exposure to inappropriate content, addiction, and impacts on attention and self-esteem. She explores important parenting considerations such as setting clear family rules, distinguishing between types of screen time, and modeling healthy technology habits.Kristin emphasizes open communication with children about online dangers, privacy, and behavior expectations. She outlines practical steps for device restrictions, app management, and creating phone-free family time, encouraging parents to assess their own usage and work collaboratively with schools and other caregivers. The talk also covers legal aspects of digital safety, online risks like altered images, and the importance of supportive parenting through evolving technology challenges.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 [Death of the Baptist & Feeding the 5k] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels by examining two key biblical events: the death of John the Baptist and the feeding of the 5,000. He explains John the Baptist’s boldness in rebuking Herod and details the circumstances leading to his imprisonment and execution, as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark.Fr. Matthias then delves into the feeding of the 5,000, highlighting Jesus’ compassion for the crowd and his call for the disciples to trust and act despite seemingly limited resources. He discusses the importance of obedience, faith, and the spiritual lessons behind the miracle found across all four Gospels.The teaching continues with Jesus walking on water, illustrating Peter’s faith and doubt, and the disciples' gradual recognition of Christ’s divine nature. Fr. Matthias emphasizes spiritual growth, discipleship, and the call to follow Christ even through trials, drawing from scriptural and patristic insights.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 [Sending the Twelve] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the sending of the twelve disciples as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. He discusses Jesus’ instructions to preach to the lost sheep of Israel, emphasizing the combination of spiritual teaching with physical acts like healing the sick and casting out demons. Fr. Matthias explains the significance of the disciples traveling light, relying on God’s provision, and the importance of wisdom and innocence in their mission.He also covers the challenges the apostles would face, including persecution, family conflict, and rejection, highlighting Christ’s call to endure and confess Him boldly. The study touches on Herod’s reaction to Jesus and the connection between physical miracles and spiritual authority. Fr. Matthias clarifies the timing of receiving the Holy Spirit in relation to the apostles’ mission and encourages faith in God’s provision and guidance throughout ministry.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 [Parables of Sower, the Candle, the Seed] | Bible Study (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels through key parables: the Parable of the Sower, the Candle (Lamp), the Seed, and the Mustard Seed. He compares the accounts across Matthew, Mark, and Luke, highlighting subtle differences and shared messages.Fr. Matthias explains the spiritual meanings behind these parables, emphasizing how the word of God grows in different hearts and how faith, even as small as a mustard seed, can lead to great outcomes. He discusses the coexistence of good and evil in the world, stressing patience, repentance, and judgment reserved for God alone.The talk also addresses practical Christian living, including how to engage with others living in sin while maintaining spiritual discernment. Fr. Matthias connects these teachings to the ongoing growth of the Church and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in believers’ 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

How the Enemy Attacks the Family Unit | SA&SP (Fr. Matthias Shehad)

Fr. Matthias Shehad discusses how the enemy targets the family unit, emphasizing that attacks often come through subtle, long-term patterns rather than obvious conflicts. He explains how division, selfishness, poor communication, unfaithfulness, financial stress, busyness, rebellious children, fear, comparison, distorted definitions of family, and lack of spiritual leadership all undermine family stability.Fr. Matthias highlights the importance of love, respect, selflessness, and effective communication in marriage. He also addresses the challenges of parenting, the dangers of worldly influence, and the need for spiritual guidance in the home. Throughout, he reflects on marriage as a path of salvation that requires effort, patience, and faith.This talk offers a thorough examination of spiritual warfare against families and practical insights for preserving unity, faith, and growth within the home.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