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.

*