Strong Links into the New Year

Next Step #186: The year comes to an end with reflections that point to new beginnings. Where are the strong and weak links in our life? Finding the missing portion of Nicene Creed - and "focusing on the vision" of the Message of Christ. Kurt Vonnegut's "Bluebeard" - beating yourself-up as the Turk: Resolving for the New Year. BC/AD BCE/CE and calendar crossings. The Magic of Christmas Eve - Fr. Vazken and his physicians meet at the Nativity of Christ - a life with days and days filled with life.
Song: Gor Mkhitarian's "The Day" - www.gormusic.com
Focused Vision - Excerpts from the Sermon on the Mount, www.inhisshoes.org
Ani's New Year Bubble
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Solstice Bells to Christmas Cheers

Next Step #185: Kick off the Winter Solstice with some Christmas Cheer. Unafraid and unashamed to claim the Solstice, Fr. Vazken finds the Christ Child in the Manger radiating the Love and Light that overcomes darkness. This podcast is a celebration with music, love and a message unlike any other, as Armodoxy is revealed. A very Merry Christmas to all! A Christmas/Solstice Celebration! Secrets revealed: Bob Dylan's reindeer and how Suzie got Ken to change his habits!
Ani's Christmas Bubble
Musical Links:
Jethro Tull's Christmas Album
Bob Dylan's "Christmas In the Heart"
Melanie's "Yes Santa, there is a Melanie"  
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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The War is Over - Merry Christmas!

Next Step #184: News that the last of the American troops are pulling out of Iraq sets the pace for this Next Step. In the aftermath of war - an opportunity to seek lasting peace by eschewing politics and opting for a true spiritual understanding of life, humanity and the offer to love. Opting out of violence. A Merry Christmas to all! The conversion of Saul and a conversion at the Children's Memorial service. Advent "additions" in preparation for Theophany. 
Poverty hits Americans 1 in 2
John Belizekjian "What Child is This?"
Ani's Bubbles - "Are You Going to Help Me Now?" - An Armenian father & son during the earthquake.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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The Armodoxy Christmas Catalog

Next Step #183: The Armodoxy Christmas Catalog is the only guide you need for the holidays. Make sure your holiday giving is with the PERFECT gift for friends and loved ones. Don't miss out on an offer guaranteed to last a lifetime! Deals galore! What do you need and what do you want? The Greatest Gifts of Christmas are packaged for the listener! Also - on the Cathia Hamparian Memorial. Season 8 begins.
Compassionate Friends: http://www.compassionatefriends.org/
Song: Joan Baez "Down in Yon Forest" from "Noel"
Follow In His Shoes on Twitter.com
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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De Niro, the Radio and the Phoenix Highway

Next Step #182: En route from Phoenix to LA, Fr. Vazken stumbles on satellite programming - XM style. From the divine to the vulgar - here's a call for common sense in life and Christianity without the shame. Words can't express the disgust, but here's a try... also in this episode - the enduring power of the stardust, the Muppets, quick answers for Heaven & Hell, the wind storm in Pasadena and more.
Song: "Light of the World" from Godspell
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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The Secret of Armenian Orthodoxy

Next Step #181: A Thanksgiving episode that reveals the 'secret' of Armenian Orthodoxy. A parade opens this message of memories and leads to Thanksgiving "moments." Turning from victim mentality to victor through thanksgiving. A means of survival and growth. A special edition podcast recorded before the dawn.
Thanksgiving with Gabriel in Darfur: Truth Be Damned
Greetings from One Genocide to Another: http://youtu.be/weuwKPjvhu0
Song: "Meeting My Past" by Ara Dinkjian (An Armenian in America)
Thank You Very Much by the Scaffolds
Ani's Bubbles: Thanksgiving Message
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Justice with Just Us and A Prayer

Next Step #180 : When a catholicos marginalizes prayer, its power stays unleashed and love is not explored. Another catholicos is ready to put it all in perspective - from his vantage point and with the maharajahs who missed the Armenians. After a brief visit to Armenian land, Fr. Vazken returns without jet lag but with some extra baggage. Continuing on Politics and Religion: finding mission in everything we do. Regis & Jerry: do we need to know everything? News from epostle.net too - Armodoxy has arrived.
Armenian Consulate's page
Song: "Dream of Life" by Haig Yazjian
Ani's Bubbles: "Lessons from the Porcupine"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Keystrokes for Peace and Avoiding the Politician

Next Step #179: Just back from Blogworld and New Media Expo, the Epostle.net team is renewed and exploring the dimensions of social media today. The pen, several years ago, was mightier than the sword. Today, emails seem passe. How social media and technology are being exploited by the Gospel. Andy Rooney's passing. Still trust the politicians? A big shift since the 1970's - how politics "validates" religious leaders; hypocrisy and the crimes we commit. The "boldness" of St. Peter and the Apostles are expressed in the post-resurrection experience, circa Pentecost 33.
Ani's Bubbles: Lesson's Through Life's Stages
"Song of the Genius" by Gor Mkhitarian www.gormusic.com
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Occupied with the Spare Pair

Next Step #178: The Occupy Movement - temporary problem on the street? Or the true product of injustice? Protesting big business and a tie to the protest led by Jesus.The Next Step is laced with protest - and it looks like we had the spare pair, all along. Thank God for Abp. Shnork and the unknown priest in the Eastern Diocese who wrote the manners and conduct manual in the 1950s. Thank God for the life of the "God generation" and their example of love and responsibility. Is Church a hobby?
Ani's Bubbles: Grace Explained
Song: Øystein Sevåg's "Crystal Palace"
Jethro Tull's Hare Who Lost His Spectacles
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Virtual Reality Check via Christ

Next Step #177:  The Next Step runner gives cause for a metaphysical test which then leads to a reality check. Virtual reality in cases of images, concepts and God are checked by the reality around us. Can God be checked? Christ gives us a sure-fire method of making God real in our lives. Identity check with the Armenian and Christian realities. More on the family as the story of sacrifice unfolds.
Kicking Cancer and Kicking off Team In Her Shoes
Listen to In His Shoes Radio
Song: Forever Young by Norah Jones at Apple Steve Jobs Memorial: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdFt2KFcZdQ
Ani's Bubbles: Happy Celebrations at Halloween
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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We've been NOMINATED for the Podcast People's Choice awards
Vote TODAY: http://www.podcastawards.com/
Join us at BlogWorld and New Media Expo http://www.blogworldexpo.com/

Please Vote! We’re Nominated for the 6th Annual People’s Choice Podcast Award!

Thanks to our wonderful listeners, The Next Step has been nominated for the People’s Choice Podcast Awards in the “Religion Inspiration” category.

Now it’s time for voting!

Please take a minute and click here to vote for us. Select us under “Religion Inspiration” then scroll down to the bottom to fill out your info, and then click “submit”.

You can vote once a day until 10/27!

Thanks for your time and your support!

For Marriage and Children Too?

Next Step #176: The discussion about end times consumes this podcast - but not all about the Rapture! Once again, the headlines discredit the Christian church by throwing the baby out with the bath water. Two Catholicoi land on the North American continent; Marriage is losing and so are the children as modern family life looks beyond the children it produces. Beginnings of a discussion/dialog about the forgotten children.
Story of Stacie Crimm's sacrifice
Song: "Fire of your Love" by Hover
Ani's Bubble: Questions for God.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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This Episode is Sponsored by Nicholas & Janine Economides

Surreal Church: So close and Yet so Far Away

Next Step #175: The Church today is so close and yet so far away. Fr. Vazken gives a view from the 8th floor of the medical building, looking over Little Armenia, watching a Pontiff and the children he visits. The weekly feasts of the Holy Evangelists comes as a reminder to The Gospel and The Mission of the Christian Church. In His Shoes and Armodoxy as expression of that mission today - hear how. (More on the visit of Catholicos Aram in last week's NS #174)
Music: "Vagharshapati Bar" by Khatchadour Avedissian
Ani's Bubbles: "The Sparrow at Starbucks"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com

This Episode is Sponsored by Nicholas & Janine Economides

First Step for Technology & Armodoxy

Next Step #174: Steve Jobs' Passing. Fr. Vazken reflects on Jobs, the visionary and the pioneer, bringing together some personal reflections from the early days of Silicon Valley and implications of those reflections for Armodoxy. "We are HERE because of him," says Fr. Vazken. Each step matters - first steps lead to the next steps. Politics in the Armenian Church: Why are members of the Armenian Church feeling disenfranchised? Catholicos Aram I visits the Southland - the office and the person, the custom of "achahampouyr." The Armenian Church at the abortion clinic - priorities for the Armenian church - don't throw out the baby with the Bathwater! A poem by Lory Bedikian - "Self Portrait with Crane" from The Book of Lamenting - brings together this episode about church - state - diaspora realities. A must hear!
Music: Switched on Bach by Wendy Carlos on Moog Synthesizer
Ani's Bubbles: Abbey & Meridith.
Pomegranate & I blog: A Song, A Dance, and a Blessing
In His Shoes Mission in an Armenian Village - A miracle with music by Gor Mkhitarian: http://youtu.be/IuNb4xSLPtI
Silicon Valley blog by Fr. Vazken
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com

This Episode is Sponsored by Nicholas & Janine Economides

All Things Blessed and Blessings

Next Step #173: The great "blessing mystery" solved! What is a "Blessing"? Fr. Vazken reveals an answer 29 years in the making. Many blessings - including for water-wells and pre-werewolf adolescents. Exploring the nausea that comes with blessings over childbirth. The piece of sand spins inside this oyster to reveal a blessed pearl! Prayers offered for Abortion and Domestic Violence: applying what we have learned from Christ. Lessons for the Christian Church. Next Step reaches its 6th continent.
Music: "Blessings" by Gor Mkhitarian www.gormusic.com
Ani's Bubbles: May all your prayers be answered
29 Years in the Making: http://armodoxy.blogspot.com/2011_09_01_archive.html
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com
 
This Episode is Sponsored by Nicholas & Janine Economides

There's still time to Vote for the Next Step at the 7th Annual Podcast Awards (http://www.podcastawards.com/) in the category "Religious Inspiration"
Nominations close September 30, 2011.  Please get your votes in!
URL for Next Step nomination: http://www.blubrry.com/nextstep

Declaring What is Evident

Next Step #172: Twenty years of independence for Armenia gives cause to reflect on "declaring what is self-evident" and how to take the next step to actualize dreams of independence - personally and as an institution. Determining which laws are just and which are unjust. What is God's law and rules? A reading of the Declaration of Independence and Dr. Martin Luther King's Letter from Birmingham Jail. Just/unjust laws. Why you won't see things getting better in the Armenian Church. The role of institutions: maintaining and preserving the status quo. We know the problems - now what's the solution - When the door opened the first woman deacon entered - its time to do the same. The Centrality of Christ in the Church - if He's in the church, what is more important outside? If he's not, everything outside can be more important. Answering the argument and problem of language in the church - here it is!
New podcast - Compass at http://epostle.net
Music: "Mer Hayrenik" - National Anthem of Armenia. Watch video at http://youtu.be/je95_TmJd6s 
Ani's Bubbles: What Cancer Can Do.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com

There's still time to Vote for the Next Step at the 7th Annual Podcast Awards (http://www.podcastawards.com/) in the category "Religious Inspiration"
Nominations close September 30, 2011.  Please get your votes in!
URL for Next Step nomination: http://www.blubrry.com/nextstep

Ecclesiastical-Evolution: Head-Body Coordination

Next Step #171: "Mush-Rope" is the way to say it. Armenian Orthodoxy in the New World and the New Era: Apologetic with no apology! Allowing evolution to take its course in the church. Coordinating the head and the body - allows us to say YES to Christ's message of love and hope. Finding faith, hope and life in the 9/11 commemoration - 2011 is the year Easter falls on April 24, and the Holy Cross on September 11 - it's the year of victory.
Compass - a first look: http://youtu.be/JlJdLLhp51c 
Song: "Sound of Silence" by Paul Simon as performed on 10th anniversary of 9/11: http://youtu.be/eanv5XRjwLg
India Arie - "Intro: Loving" http://www.indiaarie.com/
Questions in Faith - new season kicks off: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/qoff
Fr. Vazken's speech at 9/11: http://armenianorthodoxy.blogspot.com/2011/09/911-day-of-remembrance-service-at.html
Prayer for 9/11: http://armodoxy.blogspot.com/2011/09/prayer-for-10th-anniversary-of-911.html
Ani's Bubbles - The Heart of a Teacher by Paula Fox
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com

Vote for the Next Step at the 7th Annual Podcast Awards in the category "Religious Inspiration"
URL for Next Step nomination: http://www.blubrry.com/nextstep

Remove the Plank and find 9/11 under the Basil

Next Step #170: The 10th anniversary of the Terror Attacks of 9/11 coincides with the Elevation of the Holy Cross. 10 years of change, of war and opportunities - some seized, some missed. Armodoxy as a challenge to take the Next Step by walking in the shoes of others.  God's will and evil: Rejecting scapegoating and the silliness of the Christian superiority complex. You are NOT helpless - no Twinkies here! You CAN make a difference in the world and in your life. 9/11 theme: "I refuse to Hate You" Also - answers to some important questions: Can I fight injustice? Does Jesus care who Chaz Bono dances with? 
Join us in Burbank on 9/11: http://inhisshoes.org/flyers/911Burbank.jpg
And - some more clues to "Compass" premiering on the Autumnal Equinox. View promo
Music: "I told Jesus" by Roberta Flack
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Working for Purpose & Meaning

Next Step #169: Labor Day - an opportunity to look for purpose and meaning in our work and our lives. Avoiding the path of distortion. If God is "calling" am I listening? If God is "calling" am I answering? Armenianism beyond Kim and baklava. Premiere of Fall line-up on Epostle.net - including the new "Compass" show. Are the best things in life free?
Anush's Blog: "Inside the Pomegranate"
9/11 Event: http://inhisshoes.org/flyers/911Burbank.jpg
Song: Alan Hovhaness' "Mystic Flute"and "Moon Dance"
Ani's Bubbles "Juggling Life" by Coca-Cola CEO
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Caring for Youth: Getting Real

Next Step #168: Interview with Linda Maxwell, co-founder of We Care for Youth and facilitator for In His Shoes Ministries. Caring for youth is a calling for Linda Maxwell. She does so with love, care and compassion. Here she discusses her work with kids, and the power of the spirit in bringing about change. She discusses her latest project  - a Day of Remembrance on the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. The "Raul Aguirre Story," - a young man slain on the streets of Glendale and the power of forgiveness in the healing progress (see - http://7x77.org)  Candid discussion about the spiritual dimension of youth care - a must-hear for anyone concerned or working with youth. Also - reflections on news of Steve Jobs leaving Apple Computer; Earthquakes and Hurricanes - take it easy! Newsweek says NO - what about you? Promo for "Compass" - coming this Fall on Epostle.net
Song: John Bilezikjian "Sevani Tzugnors Bar"
Ani's Bubbles "A Prayer for Children"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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A Hug to the Message

Next Step #167: Hug from the lady who lost Max and the importance of human touch. Science & religion met at the grape blessing as they do in all things Christ-centered. The victims of the sexual revolution and the claim-to-fame of the famous. Divorce and the family/children. The primary purpose of institutions is Darwinian in nature. Listen up - and get a hug coupon while you're at it. Details today.
Musical Selection: "Armenian Dance" by John Bilezikjian http://dantzrecords.com/
Ani's Bubbles "River Rafting"
Links on today's show:
Bikes you need to check out http://predatorcycling.com/
NPR - Study: Are cohabitating parents bad for kids?
Man from Ick: http://armodoxy.blogspot.com/2011/08/man-from-ick.html
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com

Productivity and Vine-caretaking

Next Step #166: Exploring further the Mother of God as an expression of connecting to the TRUE vine - John 15 - Productivity by staying connected to the Vine and yielding the Fruit of Love (Finally! Grapeblessing explained). Armodoxy and St. Mary - Bringing women's issues in forum. Archbishop Barkev's Answer: A Koan from Karabakh? Four sisters, Marie, Lusaper, Srpuhi and Diruhi pointing to the Blessed Virgin.  The Institution and the Message - Insuring connections to the Vine.
Petros Malakyan taking Indiana students to Armenia: http://tcarmenia.osmblogs.com/wordpress/
Catholicos Karekin I's statement on women (1995, Beijing): http://www.aiwa-net.org/Karekin.html
Song by Eric Clapton & Pavarotti  "Holy Mother"
Ani's Bubbles "Man from Ick"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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The Mother of Love: A Different Perspective

Next Step #165: In preparation of the feast of Assumption, Fr. Vazken takes a step toward understanding St. Mary as a model for saying yes to Love. This is more than the story of an angel visiting the Blessed Mother of God, it's about a visit we receive daily to become ambassadors of God's Love in the world. This is prelude to the feast - part one of two. Also - thoughts on self-worth and the plight of women in the world. St. Mary opens a discussion about women's issues that cannot be dismissed by the Christian.
Julia Roberts story
Join us for Prof. Petros Malakyan on the Epostle Ustream channel - August 10; 7:30PST
John Lennon's song
Song by Shoushan Petrossian
Ani's Bubbles "Mary's Letter to Mothers"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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The Center Light is Greater than the Law & the Prophets

Next Step #164: The elements of the Transfiguration of the Lord are looked at through the lens of Armenian Orthodoxy. Making sense of the water feast of Vartevar. Part 2 of 2 on the theme - understanding the CENTER figure as between Law and Prophet. (Part 1 - see NS episode #163) Seeking validity for ourselves from non-Christian sources. Summer readings and the fallacy in catch-up mentality. The Gospel of St. Matthew, chapter 17 as the platform for this weekend.
Song: "Arev, Arev" by Mariam Matossian 
Ani's Bubbles "Little Wave"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Transfiguring into Light

Next Step #163: Understanding Light as a function of temperature and not lumens. Fr. Vazken takes the listener on a journey to the Beginning, when light meant more than a sun ray, cf. “I am the Light of the World” – Jesus Christ. This is the first of a two-part podcast that explores the story of the Transfiguration (Gospel of St. Matthew, chapter 17)  in terms of light and focus. Comments on Exorcism from “Beyond Belief” and Fr. Albert (Jerry Springer with a collar?) – a mirror of society’s needs and wants. An end to the Space Shuttle Program comes as the HP-G60 is retired from the Next Step.
Song: Sona Shaboyan "Yes mi garib biulbiuli bes"
Ani's Bubbles: "Peace of Mind"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Vacation & Recreation Plans for the Rest of Us

Next Step #162: Making a vacation a true opportunity for recreation is a Christian calling during summer and year-round. Here’s a chance to enjoy the best of God’s world without leaving home. Dizzy Gillespie hit the jazz note and you got a buzz, now try some “Armenian Blues” for that extra walk through Palu and now America. Islam in America – how far? Mormons and the Christian Church - beginning a conversation on the Next Step. Tweeting your way through college.
Song (dedicated to Uncle Gill): “Ghurgeet” by Richard Hagopian
Ani’s Bubble: The Secret of Happiness
New video channel: www.youtube.com/armodoxy
The Other Wiseman: http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/19608
Tweeting through College
“Carmaggedon?”
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Miracles from Another Vantage Point

Next Step #161: Find the Miracles in your life by taking a look from a different vantage point. Beyond the thunder and lightning, here is a challenge to view miracles from the vantage point of God – it's more than the blind seeing and the paralyzed walking. It’s powerful. From his own personal health challenges, Fr. Vazken invites the listener to see the Power of Christ as in the healing process. From Preston Platform – a view of a son and his father, to a Catholic Church in Brussels – a group prays and meditates, the miracle cannot be prevented! Four years after the “7x77” conference, the message of Forgiveness points us to God’s Vantage Point. Armodoxy explained by Gor, Komitas and the Partridge.
Music: Gor Mkhitarian “Gakavik” by Komitas Vartabed http://www.gormusic.com/
Ani’s Bubbles: “Patriotic Message: JFK’s inaugural address”
Links:
On Forgiveness: www.7x77.org
Holy Etchmiadzing: www.armenianchurch.org
St. Hagop Sunday School (Montreal): www.sourphagop.org
Armodoxy’s new channel on Youtube: www.youtube.com/armodoxy
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Duduks, Art and the Artist: A Spiritual Journey

Next Step #160: An Interview with Gregory Beylerian – Here is a dialogue that opens the heart and mind to the resonating meditative tone that leads the spiritual quest. In this candid conversation between artist Gregory Beylerian and Fr. Vazken the breathing is circular and the topics are flowing. From the duduk to “letting go,” from Kung Fu to iPhones, this conversation is about awareness and finding the outside parameters imposed by life. This focus takes you to a point where evolution and creation coexist on the same platform.  Also – Fr. Vazken gives a prelude to a discussion on miracles (to be continued next week) – actualizing dreams means you have to wake up!
Links to today’s podcast:
Gregory Beylerian: www.gregorybeylerian.com;
“Rise” Artwork: Available for purchase
Drum Circle: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NYGWlKXsmAU
New YouTube Channel of Fr. Vazken’s “In Step w/Christ” videos: www.youtube.com/armodoxy
Song of the Day: “Armenian Girls Dance” by Yeghish Manoukian, “Echo of the Mountains”
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Fr. Vazken interviewing Gregory Beylerian

Resonating to Turn Condemnation to Salvation

Next Step #159: The power that resides in each of us, is also part and fabric of the universe, it resides outside of us. Belief and faith means going beyond the ordinary and the expected. Armodoxy is the path that challenges us to find harmony within ourselves and without – seeking the impossible and resonating with the harmonics that otherwise don’t exist. Tapping into the Jesus principle of Resurrection. “Praying Solves all of my Problems.” – Pope Kirollos.  The “loaded” prayer of Christ. Only Christ can change the ugliness of condemnation and death to the beauty of salvation and life.  Using examples from his recent experiences with health issues, Fr. Vazken talks about the power to overcome evil, cancer, and darkness in the Armodox tradition. Armodoxy’s raison d'etre and Etchmiadzin as mission.
Music: Bazzini's "La Ronde des Lutins'; http://www.amazon.co.uk/Vengerov-Virtuosi-Antonio-Bazzini/dp/B00005K3Q0
Opening: Arax “Vaspouragan” http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/arax2
Lucine Zakarian “Xorhurt Xorin”
Ani's Bubbles: Keep Hope Alive (Believing in Magic)
Support 18 year old Gegham: https://www.facebook.com/gennext
Theme Song by Varoujan Movsesian
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Live from the Lounge: 4th Anniversary

Next Step #158: The Fourth Anniversary of the Next Step is celebrated “Live at the Lounge” with an open microphone on Suzie, Ani and Ken. Fr. Vazken shares thoughts about technology and ministry in this special edition. Closing thoughts – Fr. Vazken gets personal with thoughts on thanksgiving, humility and true healing. "Ours is not to add days to life, but life to days." - Dr. M. Garabedian. This is a prelude to the “Next Steps” to come.
Ani’s blog on Scrubs Magazine
"Evangelizing the Digital Continent" - Archbishop José H. Gomez, The Tidings Magazine
Theme Music: Varoujan Movsesian
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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God’s Concert at the Pops

Next Step #157: Finishing off Year #3 of the Next Step – a look at the “pop theology” in Armodoxy. Twitter’s 140 characters opens an opportunity for articulation; God's Concert is orchestrated when He’s in charge; Patience.
Geronimo Pratt passes – lessons from the Black Panther leader
Armenios de Córdoba por Darfur: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSZAyul28VQ
Music by Gor Mkhitarian "Or" - Purchase SPIRIT Album
Ani's Graduation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKlb0oinNnk
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Ascension (Hampartzoum) Offensive

Next Step #156: Forty days after Easter - it's the feast of Ascension (Hampartzoum). Drop the superstitions and get into gear – a look at Matthew 28:16-20 as a message for then and now. Fr. Vazken looks for inclusion in the 1933 King Kong tribe and the chorus of Anush Opera. Meanwhile – avoid those virgin martinis by taking the Christian Offensive and stopping the numbskulledness.
Music "Miteh" by Shiraz https://www.facebook.com/shiraz.yeghiazarian
“Hele Hele” by Richard Hagopian http://www.traditionalcrossroads.com/shop/category_2/Armenian-Artists.html
“Anush Opera” by Spenderian/Toumanian http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anoush_%28opera%29
Ani's Bubble - The price of a child
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com

Finding the Better Jesus

Next Step #155: Three statements about God:  From Harold Camping's destructive news of world’s end (5/21/2011), to Serj Tankian's criticism of organized religion (PTL/PTA) to Oprah's “Team” (and Jesus), Fr. Vazken explores the understanding of God and the Kingdom of Heaven in the context of Armenian Orthodoxy. Some comments after a pilgrimage to Yettem = Paradise is Heaven on Earth. No need to wait for future times - imagine Jesus as the LOVE equivalent today! Reject the absurdity of what is being taught.
Music "Takvor Gopke" by Inga & Anush; http://www.ingaanush.am/
Ani's Bubble - "Does it Matter?"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Moving Mountains before the End of Time

Next Step #154: The “healing” Gospel of the Armenian Church: Mark 11 is explored in the context of the rites of the Armenian Orthodox Church. (Explained: Mashdotz/Mayr & Hayr Mashdotz) Jesus gives a lesson of mind over matter and the ability to shift off of the physical plane. Mother Teresa is there to follow: “I know God will not give me anything I cannot handle. I just wish He didn’t trust me this much.” End of World predictions for this Saturday, May 21, are you (getting) prepared? Jehovah’s Witness beat Armenian Priest: http://hetq.am/eng/news/1252/
Letter from Eh Wear: www.ehwear.org
Music by John Bilezikjian "Medax Tashginag" 
Ani's Bubble – Positive Attitude.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Tying Up Water and Other Excuses

Next Step #153: Christianity beyond the names; Fr. Vazken explores the excuses for covering our guilt as Christians as he looks at the Fast for Darfur; it’s implications and strength in commemorating atrocities. Picking on homosexuality: what Christians must remember before picking up the stone. Balancing good actions with humility. Watch out for Lucy in the Sky! Part 2 of Armodoxy - unravelling the central message of Resurrection. Story from Naseredin Hodja: http://armodoxy.blogspot.com/2011/05/are-you-tying-water-with-that-rope.html
Music "Tzidzernag" by Arax from the “Crossing” album: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/arax2
Ani's Bubble – “Three Races”
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Doubts From The Desert Floor

Next Step #152: From the desert floor broadcasting the message of Armodoxy. Part 1 of an exploration and unraveling of the Armenian Orthodox faith – what is the message under the institution. Will & Kate, Osama’s capture start a discussion of ethics and morals that will continue. Thomas doubted but also got an answer. This is a special edition which starts off a series of Questions in Faith.
Music: “Have a Little Heart” by Melineh Kurdian
Ani’s Bubbles: Sense of a Goose
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Post Easter Victory for Victims

Next Step #151: Easter celebrations are over, Genocide commemorations have stopped, but the real work of In His Shoes continues in highlighting Resurrection over Crucifixion. Recap and commentary on the Fast for Darfur. Defining the Church as the Sacred Body of Christ, and the overwhelming power of national aspirations. And in the world… Prince William gets married, Obama proves he’s a citizen and Superman denounces his US Citizenship.
Music by Steve Hampar
Ani's Bubble - Angel Made Quilt.
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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And the Two Shall Meet

Next Step #150: An Easter Special in complete Armodox Tradition. Life over death, love over hatred, light over darkness, good over evil, Govya Yerousaghem over Ee Verin. April 24 is transformed by the unfailing words of Rev. 21:4 - a day when there will be no more tears. The Power within us. In His Shoes at this junction. Putting on the sandles of Christ; Taking up Christ’s Cross OR Taking Christ up to the Cross?
Join us for Easter Morning Sunrise Service: www.epostle.net/broadcast.html
Ani's Bubbles - Seeker of Truth
Songs - Govya Yerousaghem by Vazkenian Seminarians at Lake Sevan
Oor es Mayr Eem by Lousine Zakarian
Beautiful Boy by John Lennon
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Working Class Weapons

Next Step #149: Preparing for the meeting of Light & Darkness – Easter and Armenian Genocide Commemoration – a year in the planning via In His Shoes. Jesus was open to the possibility of learning and the "working class hero" opens our minds. Church/Priest being accessible. Finding a weapon of choice – especially when weapons are the only means of salvation! Here is the Armodox answer to violence – peace is promised and also attainable. Borrowing from our children – what world are we leaving them with? Family life – do you really want others to pray for you? Jerusalem (Govya Yerousaghem) is for victors, the Eternal Jerusalem (Ee Verin Yerousaghem) is consolation for the victims.
FAST for DARFUR: http://inhisshoes.org
Song - Shoghaker Ensemble "Tamir Agha Bar";
Working Class Hero – John Lennon & Angeghdz Zinvor – Hovhaness Badalian;
Ani's Bubble - Teachers' I Cor 13 translation
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Born Again to the End Times

Next Step #148: Back from Phoenix through the Arizona/California desert, in time for the Sunday of Advent. Earthquakes, upheaval in the Middle East, Economy – what does it all mean? The “Signs of the Times?” A look at Scripture for answers – exploring Mark 13, Matthew 25 & Matthew 22. Whether you’re “Born Again” or waiting for the Rapture – you will be able to put together the pieces and find out the best way to wait / prepare for end times – A True Orthodox perspective – Armodoxy for us all. Specialists for everything but religion. Another revelation: Believe it or not, patience is not one of Fr. Vazken’s virtues (really?); April 24 – Easter Sunday and the FAST for DARFUR – Transforming Victims to Victors in Christ!
Check out: Dr. Harry Hagopian - consultant to the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales on the Middle East http://www.catholicchurch.org.uk/mena-4
Ani's Bubbles: Helping Hands
Music: Rouben Hakhverdian "Im Spitak Aghavnie"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Weapons of Choice for Overloaded Anxiety

Next Step #147: Cesar Chavez day: looking beyond the self and caring for the community. Armodoxy: Life of Activism; War & Peace - Making Faith the Weapon of Choice; Gabriel in Darfur at the refugee camps and the upcoming Fast for Darfur; Spiritual and emotional overload and anxiety. Welcome to the Brazilian listeners. Earthquakes and revolutions - Signs of the Times? Or selfish desires? Word: Li.
Links: Stop Genocide Now – iAct & Gabriel;
Watch “Greetings of Hope”
Music: Lilit Pipoyan "Tzoun Tzoun" from Lialousin
Bubbles by Ani: Giving up grudges for Lent;
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Spring over the Hurdle of Fear

Next Step #146: Updates on Darfur from Gabriel and the iAct team; Other solutions for Libya, are within our tradition of Armodoxy – dream of peace. Living beyond the sword; The quadruple dangers of Japan’s earthquake: fear joins in with the tsunami and nuclear radiation; Supermoon for the start of Spring; The Dishonest Steward teaches that this world is not to be discounted, but the tools of this world can provide for our spiritual welfare. More on the revolutions – it’s in our hands.
iAct: www.stopgenocidenow.org/
Dr. DuPont on fear;
Follow the Lenten Journey at www.epostle.net/lent 
Music: Nersisyan Komitas-Andreassian Garoun a
Bubbles: What to give up for Lent
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Blue Prints in Toronto

Next Step #145: This St. Patrick's Day, join us for some Armenian Scotch. Coming from Japan: earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown, the worst is fear. Jesus’ words: “Do Not Fear” is a call during these anxiety filled times. Superman and God: who could have stopped the tsunami in Japan? Guest Maida Icliates, chairperson for Armenian Family Support Services is interviewed and she offers a blue print for social services through the Church. Faith meets action in this wonderful story of a community coming together to help those in need.
Armenian Family Support Services: http://www.afsstoronto.ca/
Song: “Willie Brew'd A Peek O'Maut” by Bambir – album “Armenian Scotch” http://www.myspace.com/bambir
Ani's Bubbles: St. Patrick's Story
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Fr. Vazken, Maida Icliates, Natasha and Suzie

Hacking through Lent

Next Step #144: Reflections on the Gathering for Darfur – Gor Mkhitarian, Ara Dabandjian and Melineh Kurdian share their talent at the March 6 In His Shoes event. At the end of the day – the miracle is obvious: the focus has shifted and we’re on our way toward Easter. Lenten Journey: the files have been found! We have you covered through Lent – Emotionally, spiritually and physically. Ken shows off his new computer and tells of Clapton. “Pwn2Own” and hacking through Lent – stripping down to find what’s underneath it all.
Ani's Bubbles: Juggling Life by the Coca Cola Exec.
Song: Lilit Sargsyan "Prayer” http://arahettravel.com/
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Hitchcock’s Twist to Vartanantz

Next Step #143: Vartanantz and a Hitchcockian twist to the old story. Teaching morality through MTV? Is Fox any better? Birthplaces: Romance to reality, they do change! First Amendment rights of abusers of the Christian name – the Supreme Court decides. Charlie Sheen and MTV – what happens to “throw-away babies”? Paregentan - the beginning of the Lenten season and what’s in store for the next few weeks. Do check out http://epostle.net
Upcoming: This Sunday is the Awareness for Darfur Event at Griffith Park
Song: Yegheghetzin Haygagan by Seminarians at Vazkenian Monetary, Lake Sevan
Ani's Bubbles: Carl's Garden
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Gor is with Us!

Next Step #142: Prelude to the IHS Gathering for Darfur - recording artist Gor Mkhitarian drops in at the studio for an interview - music and humanities, it's all there. Then, a special in-studio session - "Or," "Hrashk" and the "Snow" has never been the same. Father Vazken explains the importance of the moment as Genocide in Darfur escalates in intensity. The victory of Resurrection is at the heart of all of our efforts.
Gor Music: http://gormusic.com
Purchase SPIRIT Album by Gor Mkhitarian
Ani's Bubbles: The Silent Sermon;
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Office Icons Point to Love

Next Step #141: The Simpsons have the Blinky fish. The Chevy in Blythe has a Bobble-Head Jesus. Fr. Vazken’s office has some icons too – not too far off, once you get Shnorhali’s key. All icons point to Christ so long as the Shnorhali formula is in place. Armodoxy is an intelligent alternative to what’s being thrown out at you – and nothing that promotes love can be “appalling.” Wrapping up a Valentine's week with stories and song: Catholicos Karekin II builds traditions for newlyweds, but not without precedents. A look at Sam Harris’ “Letter to a Christian Nation” – don’t be afraid atheists, as long as you have love. March 6 is the kick-off for a VERY SPECIAL Easter Season.
Song "Pakhir Aydzyam" by Parik Nazarian
Ani's Bubbles: A Valentine Story
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Bonfires for Peace

Next Step #140: After analysis there's only one step to take: the next step to action. Did you see Jesus in the Genocide refugee camps? Warning- Do not try this at home: the heathen practices of jumping the bonfires. Sayat Nova's adventures through St. Valentine's Day and the Presentation of the Lord (Diaruntarch). Peace - hard to pronounce, maybe harder to achieve. Or maybe not? Our call to answer war with peace, as Christians and as humans.
Song: "Badkirkd dalamov kahsadz” by Nuné Yesayan http://www.nune.org/
Ani's Bubbles: "Quotes from MLK"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Refusing Devolution

Next Step #139: From the Sunshine in California to the Snow storms back East, this episode is an offering of bi-polar reconciliations: Death & Life; Dark & Light; Good & Bad; Evolution & Devolution; Debutante Balls & Genocide in Darfur. Fr. Vazken outlines the direction of the In His Shoes Ministries on this banner year, 2011 as the darkness meets the light on Easter Sunday. No sunshine, gas or electricity needed – this topic will heat you up. The dog of Midwinter says Spring is around the corner. Making the Church the ACTIVE Body of Christ. Armenian Orthodox Church and the Armenian Protestant Church – what is the tie that bind them? You’ll be surprised!
Song: "Lezginka" Gagik Gasparyan (album: La Musica del Mundo en clarinete) www.rgsmusic.com.ar
Ani's Bubbles: "Praying Hands"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Two Friends, One Concern Discussed

Next Step #138: Dr. Hratch Tchilingirian’s interview (Part 2 of 2) - discussing religion in general and the Armenian Church in particular. Topics include the Mission of the Armenian Church; How to accomplish the mission; Eastern (cf. Western) as the liberal form of Christianity; Spirituality vs. the Institutions; Relevancy in the Church; Customizing Religion to fit our lives; Complex world and the Simple message. Watch out Google, here’s a formula for advertising without paying for it. The London Church experiment: Finding Christianity in community. This is a meaty interview, with analysis and direction. A must listen for anyone concerned about the direction of Church, in harmony with the Christian Mission.
Part 1 of Interview
Check out Shiraz on FB: http://www.facebook.com/shiraz.yeghiazarian
Song: "Between Me Now" by Melineh Kurdian – www.melinehkurdian.com
Ani's Bubbles: "The Pearl Necklace"
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
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Fr. Vazken Movsesian and Dr. Hratch Tchilingirian

Analysis from the Inside Out

Next Step #137: Wrapping up the lessons from a weekend with Martin Luther King, Jr.; The Santa Barbara Sunrise: are we at the Pacific Ocean? Expansion plans for In His Shoes includes a kick in the shoes, from Easter April 24, to Syria, to Argentina and London; 50 Years after JFK’s “Ask Not…” Speech – we are heirs to the revolution; Can we really love those we don’t like? Interview with Hratch Tchilingirian, Ph.D. (Part 1) – a look at the “Window Years” – Analysis and Criticism from within the church. Dr. Tchilingirian discusses issues of faith and religion, the Armenian Church and religion in the work today. How the fundamental questions of life are answered for him as a person, an Armenian and now a father.
Speech: JFK Inauguration Speech: “Ask not what your country can do for you…”
Ani’s Bubbles: “Forgiveness”
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net

Fr. Vazken Movsesian and Dr. Hratch Tchilingirian

St. John the Radical in Declaring a Right to Revolution

Next Step #136: The Feast of St. John the Forerunner, a revelatory day, when it all clicks and we arrive at Armodoxy. Declaring a Right to Revolution for the Church. Is Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness the goal of religion? Does it define the sacredness of the Church? Is it Unity with God for the Christian? The New Diocesan TV show, “In Step with Christ” and the “Hell” graphic. Shooting in Arizona – looking at the destruction of humanity and the answer to heal.
Song: "Rain, Rain Go Away" by Armen Chakmakian - http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/armen
Ani's Bubbles: "Dignity, Homelessness and the Amazing Chain” http://www.pomegranateandeye.blogspot.com/
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net

Christmas Day Ponderings

Next Step #135: It’s Theophany! The Revelation of Christ! Kickoff the New Year with some ponderings - What to think when the  twelve-day countdown is over. Instead of partridges and lords a-leeping, cancer and death visits. Finding PEACE in the face of stress and difficulties. Fr. Vazken shares some personal stories from the Christmas week that point to Christmas miracles – ones of Biblical proportion! The prayer of blessing water – would you believe it provides the answer to some of life’s biggest questions. Christ is Revealed! Blessed is his Revelation!
Ani’s Bubbles: Adam & Eve “Kids”
Songs: “Heaven is a Zillion Light Years Away” by Stevie Wonder
“Today is Christmas” the Youth Choir of St. Sahag/St. Mesrob
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net