The End is Just a Challenge

Next Step #69: (viewed through the lens of Armenian Orthodoxy) Discussion on absolute morals in light of Roman Polanski’s arrest in Zurich. Overlooking rape? How about Genocide? A quick look at end-time "fright" theology and how it alienates people from some of the true strengths of religious thought. Is Jesus the only way? Here’s an explanation that gives Armodoxy its unique flavor. All these topics and some updates on the growth of the In His Shoes movement and the “epostle” ministry.
Song of the Day: Khorhoort Khorin, Gomidas Vartabed, Strings of Armenia
Ani’s Bubble: The Rose Within
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan
Sponsored by Pomegranate & Eye. Mention The Next Step podcast and receive a 15% discount - which will be donated to our ministry.

Simons of our Crosses

Next Step #68: Part 3 of 3 on the Holy Cross - Looking for help in carrying our crosses and realizing we are the only ones who can climb them in the end. Fr. Vazken uses the story of Jesus' Crucifixion to guide this meditation about help – Simon - in our sufferings - and finding purpose in a life style that makes us each, Simons of Cyrene. Also: A follow up to an exorcism, becoming a story of faith. A bit about end time theology with a look to the future podcasts as well.
Bubbles - Ani does cow imitations in "That's not my problem"
Song of the Day: "Saturday and Sunday" by the students of the Vazgenian Seminary at Lake Sevan.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan.
Sponsored by Pomegranate & Eye. Mention The Next Step podcast and receive a 15% discount - which will be donated to our ministry.

The Cross is Elevated

Next Step #67: Part 2 of 3 on the Holy Cross. Explanation of the “Exaltation” in history, and its place in life today. Going beyond the John 3:16 message of everlasting life, Fr. Vazken brings the message home in a holistic manner, so the sacrifice of LOVE is our orders for life. A special prayer is offered on this 8th Anniversary of 9/11, with a letter Navy Seaman Apprentice Dembekjian that talks that look for peace. In His Shoes news includes Warren Goodman’s release from prison.
Song of the Day, Lilit Danielyan’s "Cut up this pomegranate here"
Bubbles by Ani: "Twins"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan
Today’s show is sponsored by Pomegranate & Eye Mention The Next Step podcast and receive a 15% discount - which will be donated to our ministry.

Can't Avoid that Cross

Next Step #66: In the aftermath of making history with another electronic next step - streaming the Armenian Orthodox perspective. New models for living- finding the central point of our lives and the programming that is fed us. A letter about the prosperity gospel – watch out for the wolves in sheep’s skin! This podcast begins a three part series about the symbol of the Holy Cross - It's not something you can avoid! (nor should you want to avoid it!). Really? Who needs suffering? Part 1 (of 3) on the Armenian Orthodox significance of the Holy Cross.
Ani's Bubbles: "Three Trees"
Song of the Day: "Two Short Planks" by Ian Anderson.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan

Working the Wild Fires

Next Step #65: The wild fires of Southern California serve as a metaphor for sin. A Labor day meditation on work, labor and purpose - the necessity to work - and what about when the work doesn't yield large profits? Is it worth it? The need to work/labor responsibility, even in worship. The example given by the Kennedys at the death of Teddy.
Music Kim Kashkashian “Songs from Spain and Argentina.”
Ani's Bubbles: George Mardikian on "Why I closed my restaurant."