All Things New

The New Year’s Eve Edition of The Next Step takes a look at virtual reality as composed by the demise of a household product. Can we hit a rewind button to find out? The Advent season comes to an end with the arrival of Theophany - just in time for the new year! Listen how Christ makes all things new, through His Love! Peace is just waiting to happen as Fr. Vazken weaves the listener through the first week of the New Year.

Christmas Eve at the Manger

The “Christmas Eve” edition of the Next Step, explores the scene at the manger as something greater than its historical components. Drawing on the purest concepts of mathematics, Fr. Vazken makes the case that with Jesus, we find the sick, the hungry, the lame and the suffering wrapped in the swaddling cloth. If A=B and B=C then A=C; can we swap variables and find that even peace has a chance! Digging deep – this podcast even addresses the bigger questions – did the manger smell like baby wipes? Interspersed with an assortment of great carols, this is a Christmas Eve treat for everyone – young and old looking for the magic that can come only from God.

Sun makes way for the Son

Celebrating Christmas before or after the New Year. Does it matter? To some yes, but from the Armenian Orthodox perspective, it's one of many trappings that skew us from the Truth. What about the Bible? Did it come from God? Dare we say that there are means to God beyond the Bible? And if so, what does that say about the truth of the Bible? Find out in this podcast which explains a bit more than the date of Christmas. Travel back in time to the first thoughts of religion and find out how fact and truth can end up on two different sides of the coin. And all this occurs as our planet takes a spin around the outer rim of its orbit around the Sun. Happy Solstice and a Merry Christmas to all!

Featured Songs: Carols by Joan Baez, Victory by Gor Mkhitarian

The Ox, House, and Wife on Advent

On the Great Banquet, or WWJWFHB = (What would Jesus want for his Birthday?) The answer is given in scripture and in this podcast! What were the Jesus "parents" like? We got a glimpse of them in Montrose, of all places. And what a headache they COULD have had, instead did they take the Advent prescription? Only Mary's pharmacist knows for sure? This is one of a series of podcasts following the Advent journey to Christmas. At the end of the road is the prize: A new view of Christmas - not in a stable in Bethlehem, but as the only true representation of Christ's revelation.
Music: Gor Mkhitarian plays the Lord's Prayer - a new rendition of Jesus' words. Join in for all the excitement of this Holiday cast.

Shaking Christmas Vampires

You’ll find this episode filled with “Happy Holiday” cheer, and here’s a hint: it’s not because Fr. Vazken wants to be politically correct! Christmas is coming and with the season of Advent, you’re invited to look within and at how the Christ child is being born around you and then within.

Also, in this episode we look at Vampires and the undead. As crowds line up to watch “Twilight” and emotions heat up, we compare it with the undead in the church, namely the saints, both those with a capital and a small ‘S’. The last segment of the podcast is dedicated to the 20^th Anniversary of the earthquake in Armenia (December 7, 1988) and the formation of Armenian electronic multimedia through sain.org and the foundation for In His Shoes Ministries.

Featured song: “About Light” by Gor Mkhitarian

Thanksgiving Meal: Icon of the Holy Eucharist

Well he promised and now he delivered! Fr. Vazken presents herein the holistic religion: Armenian Orthodoxy. And the Thanksgiving meal serves as the icon for this holistic expression. This is one of Fr. Vazken's fundamental teaching points and a must-listen for the neophyte as well as the veteran. This also sets the tone for the season of Advent - the 50 day period leading to Christmas. And Fr. Vazken extends another promise -follow the journey of Advent with us and Christmas will never have the same meaning. You'll understand it not as event in First Century Bethlehem, but as the essential event leading to the ultimate expressions of love. In this episode of the Next Step, you'll learn of the incredible similarities between grandma's house (over the river and through the woods) and God's everlasting table.

New music from Gor Mkhitarian titled, “Snow” from the upcoming Spirit album as well as a track from Mariam Matossian’s In the Light album titled “Oosdi Gookas”. The Christmas concert is less than a month away. Tickets available from ItsMySeat.com

No Thanks to Cults: Religion Gone Wrong

Thanksgiving, Cults, Religion gone bad and much more. As Mr. Potter gives the secrets to financial success in this market, Fr. Vazken instructs about thanksgiving. It is the cornerstone of the faith and the key to lasting love. In this remarkable podcast, you are taken on a journey that will conclude next week at Thanksgiving. Quality may preempt quantity, but it doesn’t escape the site of this commentary. A wide variety of topics are discussed, Pope Benedict XVI makes it on board the Cast and Prop 8 is not exempt. Cults and Koolaid® are remembered on this 30th anniversary of the Jonestown massacre. Why do cults make it? You’ll be surprised by the answer Fr. Vazken gives.

A new song by Gor Mkhitarian in preparation for the December 18 concert. It all comes together on this Next Step.

Giving a Thanks Blessing

Stuffed Turkey, dressing and… Mother Goose? Not quite, but there is so much more to the holiday than the culinary delights that have … how do you say? Given us that je ne sais quoi satisfaction of the the salivary glands. It's certainly not the addition of pilaf to the Thanksgiving menu that makes Thanksgiving come alive in the Armenian Orthodox tradition. Just like other feasts on our church calendar that give us opportunities to live out the message of Christ, Thanksgiving allows us to acknowledge that there’s something greater than ourselves. Fr. Vazken take the next step toward defining the richness of the Thanksgiving experience by poking at the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18) and challenging listeners to give a thanks-blessing.

Featured songs: Mariam Matossian’s “Arev Arev” from In the Light album and Gor Mkitarian’s "Blessing" (Orhnutyun) from the not-yet-released Spirit album. On December 18, In His Shoes will proudly present Gor’s “Spirit” CD Release Concert at Zipper Hall with opening performance by Mariam Matossian. Tickets available online: ItsMySeat.com

Small Steps Lead to Big Dreams

Barack Obama is President! A dream comes true. Mines explode in Karabagh ending the dreams of others. Fr. Vazken returns from the Obama campaign trail in Las Vegas and talks about the enduring power of dreams. Jesus tell us, "I tell you the truth, unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." John 12:24 Through this sacrifice it produces much, transforming into something greater. What are the sacrifices made by people in our past? Why did the good die young? “Abraham, Martin and John,” by Dion is featured in this podcast. Also, a special interview with Gala Danivola, Program Coordinator in Nagorno Karabagh for The HALO Trust, an organization dedicated to removing landmines and other unexploded ammunitions from former conflict zones, talks about their work.

Beneath the Halloween Mask of Life

Boo! This podcast in not designed to scare you, only to make you think. Here's an opportunity to examine the masks we all wear in life. Fr. Vazken carefully removes the layers that guard and protect us and beneath are no monsters but a pure heart given by God. A unique exposé on the Obama/McCain campaigns in light of the faith vote. Armenian Orthodoxy extends to this discussion of Halloween, masks, and fear.

The Poor, the Prisoners, and the Blind

In the Gospel of Luke Jesus says,
“The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.”
This week Fr. Vazken explores finding peace in our lives and understanding Christ’s mission. Poverty does not equate having empty pockets, prisoners are not those in jail cells, the blind are not those without eyeballs in their sockets. This is a podcast that sets the cornerstone for all others because it describes the mission of the Christian church and the work of Christians in this world. Take a journey with Fr. Vazken as he reveals the special place this passage holds in his ministry.

An End to Worries

The financial crisis felt around the world is causing anxiety, tension and worries. Where and when will it end? What happens next? All the questions are ripe for the picking, until you connect to the source of our freedom from fear. As Jesus instructs through the Gospel of St. Matthew, chapter 6, today’s message is directed to the lack of trust in the financial markets and – shall we say – God? This is a Next Step to spiritual comfort from the “Lilies of the Field” to the “Birds in the Air”, it is a call for complete surrender and trust in God. It’s a challenge that’s presented this time, through the unique view of Armenian Orthodoxy.

Allowing Spiritual Blessings to Dispel Our Fears

Market meltdowns and financial difficulties put us in crisis mode and throw us into a state of fear. How do we get a handle on this fear? How do we cope with the anxiety caused by the current economic crisis? The challenge is to take the emphasis off of the physical, material world, and direct our sights on the spiritual happiness that can be obtained in our lives. Also in this episode is a new prayer celebrating the newly blessed miuron (holy chrism) just delivered to us. The holy miuron allows us to enlighten our senses to touch the Face of God. It’s an opportunity for us to renew our faith and mission. It allows us to connect to something that goes back 2000 years, that is the essence of God, Jesus Christ. We’re called to be a part of this Living Tradition.

Mindless Obsessions vs. Serious Issues

It’s a mashup this week, but not of the digital web application variety! Religion, Politics (yes, we’re in that season), Destiny or Not, and Responsibility are all a part of this episode. And of course this is a podcast on Orthodoxy, so find out how it’s timeless; transcending time and space. The totality of the experience is much greater than its parts. It’s an open invitation to plug in to this experience.

Stirred by the Spirit

“The Dove that was sent came down from on high with a great sound and like the flashing of light he armed the disciples with fire…” Hymn of the Holy Spirit. Hold on to your seats while you tune in because in this striking fashion your heart will be revived. On the occasion of the Blessing of Miuron (Holy Chrism), prepared once every seven years, Fr. Vazken uses this occasion to instruct us how this holy oil touches us, heals us, and makes us members of Christ’s family through the power of the Holy Spirit. Listen and connect…

Cross Section Too

There’s a difference between the crosses that we must bear and tolerate – the crosses we’re given – and the crosses that Jesus talks about, the ones He tells us to pick up and follow. The way of this cross is the cross of sacrifice and humility. And in picking up this cross, we accept the responsibility towards our family, our community, and our world. Fr. Vazken takes up and probes this dimension of the cross; the meaning in our lives comes from a life lived for others. What is the power and importance of the cross in our lives?

Musical selection is “Emmanuel Calling” from Credo’s album, The Rock Opera of the Greatest Story.

Elevating the Resurrected Cross

From reporting on religio-politics, Governor Palin's views on Israel, the Man of the Year event that took place last Friday at BGT, and the Genocide happening in Darfur, Fr. Vazken segues into a discussion on the Holy Cross. Wow! Did you ever imagine you'd read all that in a podcast dedicated to looking at life through the lens of ancient Armenian Orthodoxy? Truly, there's even more... We are now in the period approaching one of the five major feasts of the Armenian Church. This Sunday is the Feast of the Exhaltation of the Holy Cross. Even basil has a role in this, but you'll have to listen to find out!

Abandonment Not At Sea

Who was that masked man? Kimosabe? The disciples may not have asked this question, but they certainly challenged Jesus to reveal himself as the one who calms the sea and the wind. While Hurricane Gustav passed through without major calamity, Fr. Vazken looks at Mark chapter 4 and points to a greater miracle than calming the storm. After all, everything is possible with God . The greater miracle is in reaching out, in dissipating the fears caused by feelings of loneliness and abandonment.

BRAND NEW Song!!! The Day, from Gor Mkhitarian’s yet-to-be-released album, brought to you for the first time exclusively through Epostle.net.

Obama's Deeds, McCain's Words, Christ's Teachings

Next Step #11 - Politics, Religion, Faith and State - is it all a mix or what? Just over a week ago the two presidential candidates, Obama and McCain, entered into a conversation on faith and politics with Rick Warren of Saddleback Church. In particular, Warren asks each of the men about their faith and what it means to them. McCain says it means that he is “saved and forgiven”. Obama’s response also includes an “obligation to embrace not just words but deeds.” Fr. Vazken makes this question the focus of this episode. Get ready for the Orthodox worldview on faith, salvation, and forgiveness!
The songs in this episode include Spirit in the Dark performed by the Blind Boys of Alabama, and a rendition of Mogats Shogen by the Armenian a cappella group Zulal.

Retardation: Fears and Prejudices

From Ben Stiller to Carole Juroyan this Next Step is about retardation and our reaction. Carole Juroyan worked as the Executive Director for the Glendale-based Association of the Retarded. The interview provides Carole’s 25-year experience of working and overcoming fear and prejudice. Also in this episode, Fr. Vazken touches upon the Saddleback Forum with presidential candidates Obama and McCain, but more on this next week. The musical selection (Vem Radio) is dedicated to two people we lost this week; baby Zaven Jendian and Mariam Paparigian.

Grapes, Vines and Robustness

The feast of the Assumption of St. Mary - the Holy Mother of God reminds us to be the bearers of Love. Fr. Vazken explores John 15 and Jesus' directive to stay connected to him - the true vine. Also in the broadcast, an update on Ossetia and Darfur. The two songs that are featured in the podcast are Gor Mkhitarian's rendition of Gomidas' "Shogher jan" and Lucine Zakarian singing "Diramayr."
An exploration of Armenian Orthodoxy and the focus on Love.
Recorded on 13 August 2008

NS 888 Darfur Olympics Special Announcement

Special Announcement regarding the Darfur Olympics - 8/8/8 - this is a rebroadcast of the last 8 minutes of NS#8.
Get the word out!

St. Mary's Yes

On the Feast of St. Mary, Fr. Vazken explores the concept of "bearing God", that is, giving birth to Love. He challenges the listener to think beyond the cliches of the physical event and see St. Mary as a saint who rose above her humanity by accepting the call of God. This is not your ordinary message about St. Mary being the chosen of God. No, this is about St. Mary taking responsibility for her life and responding with a solid "Yes" to God.


Also, a call to Save Darfur. With the start of the China Olympics on 08/08/08, Fr. Vazken focuses on the necessity to make noise and draw attention to the tragic situation in Darfur. Here is a call to stop Genocide using the means we have, but first and foremost by being educated. In 1915 the world closed its eyes, ears and mouth* to the Armenian Genocide. Here's a true commitment to "Never again!"



Today's songs: "Beautiful Boy" and "Oor Es Mayr Im"
Source: Amnesty Internationals, "Save Darfur" & Ararat Movie Soundtrack.

Recorded August 6, 2008 in Glendale, California

Part 1 of 2 - to be continued next week.

*

Even Eclipsed Light Overtakes Darkness

Life throught the lens of ancient Armenian Orthodoxy - this week: Gabriel Stauring in Darfur, Light and Darkness, the Total Eclipse of the Sun, Eulogy for Fr. Oshagan Minassian.

Turning Dreams to Reality

The Next Step with Fr. Vazken - #6 - July 23, 2008
Inspired by the moon landing 39 years ago this week, Fr. Vazken talks about dreaming and turning them into reality. Is it as easy as waking up?
Darfur update - Bashir defies the world community.
Interview with Gor Mkhitarian who discusses his music and spirituality.
World premiere of the song "Miracles" - part of an album of spiritual music to debut in December 2008. "Miracles" is Gor's latest creation. Gor continues to discuss about prayer and his song, "About God."

Impulse Buying of Love

Next Step Podcast Episode #5 - July 16, 2008.
When Peter accepts Jesus invitation to be a fisher of people (Matthew 4), he and his brother Andrew are impulse buyers of Love. Its another example for us to not restrict our ability to love.
Included in this podcast is an interview with St. Nersess seminarian, Deacon Ryan Tellalian, who speaks about service and the St. Nersess experience. Featured song: The Fishermen of Sevan performed by oud virtuoso John Bilezikjian.

Repent or Perish

Pain and suffering is experienced on different scales, whether on a grand scale as when natural disasters strike, or as experienced on the personal or individual level. Is this because the sins of some are greater or worse than others? The answer is found in Luke 13. In the Gospel, Jesus says NO! But He tells us that we must repent. To repent is to redirect our outlook, our attitude. What makes this possible? Where does Einstein’s belief in an expanding universe fit into this? Is God moving the bishop on the chessboard of life? Tune in to this next installment to find out!

Freedom to Create Through Love

Independence Day is a fitting time to look at our freedoms through the lens of Armenian Orthodoxy. What has been the strength of the Armenian people to survive? Where does this spirituality come from? Christ releases us of our bonds and gives us the true freedom – His Love. God has given us the most beautiful gift, the ability to create by tapping into the power of love. In this podcast Fr. Vazken explores the ideas of freedom, independence, and creativity.

Vartavar - The Transfiguration Feast

This coming Sunday is referred to as Vartavar; a pagan feast transfigured into a Christian one. So today Fr. Vazken takes the next step to a place called Transfiguration. Jesus’ transfiguration is documented in several of the Gospels including the scene in Matthew 17 where Christ reveals His illumined Divinity. His face shines like the sun and his garments become as white as light. What does all of this mean to us today? How does Pink Floyd figure into this? Do transfigs only grow in California? Tune in to Armenian Orthodoxy. Take the next step!

The Next Step is a New Step

With this premiere broadcast, Fr. Vazken takes the next step in exploring Armenian Orthodoxy. God is experienced as Mystery, deep and inscrutable. Tune in and take this first step with us.

The Next Step...

Our Questions in Faith series continues this summer with Fr. Vazken. EPOSTLE.net is where you'll find our weekly podcasts. As a way to get started, read Fr. Vazken's Preface to the Next Step.

Look for us beginning this Wednesday, June 18!