Freedom of Possibilities

Next Step #265: Fourth of July editions with freedom to explore possibilities. Answers to same sex commentary (from last week) - the dimensions of sin, while "plankated." Epostle at age 5. America and freedom.
Song: America the Beautiful by Keb' Mo' 
Last week's: "Next Step #264"
Inside the Pomegranate with Anush Avejic
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net
Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com
Now on Stitcher Radio! 

Freedom to Weed it Out

Next Step #108: Matthew Chapter 13 gets a special pruning, as the weeds are pulled from the grass. You won’t find a theodicy here, instead, it’s a meditation on true freedom from within. Blasting away the bonds of hatred and animosity. A most fitting reflection on this pre-Independence Day Celebration. It’s all here, even if you only hear “leb” along with a Fathers’ Day wish.  Now? Here’s a theory of why things happen at epostle.net. Drugs in Glendale: http://araratmagazine.org/2010/06/lost-kids-arm-america-1/ 
Music: "About God" by Gor Mkhitarian; Purchase SPIRIT album
Ani’s Bubbles: Ice Cream; (http://scrubsmag.com/author/aniburr/)
Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net

With Freedom Comes Responsibility

Next Step #57: Today. Earth date 7.8.9. Just as the date flows so does this podcast. Two years after the “7x77 Forgiveness Conference” Fr. Vazken recaps the basics of the formula for forgiveness and peace. Also, one final look at the Michael Jackson death story in light of his memorial service. From these topics emerge the concept of responsibility. It is the basis for healthy living and mature faith. Herein Fr. Vazken challenges listeners to a life of purpose and what it means to be free.
Ani’s Spiritual Bubbles: The lonely girl
Music: Bambir’s “J.B.K.”

Between a Rock and a Soft Place

Next Step #56: When Jesus was asked for a “sign” he offered nothing new. He only pointed to something that was “greater than” the signs. Here’s a casual look at symbols. In the wake of Michael Jackson’s death, Fr. Vazken looks into the ways information was processed, news was gathered, and the tools of technology to make our spirits come alive. The power of music – as expressed through Jackson and a surprisingly similar sound coming from Iran in the quest for freedom. The podcast ends with a special wish to America and the freedom it enjoys on this 233rd anniversary of Independence. Welcome back Gabriel from the Chad desert!

Songs: Sari Siroon Yar by Element Band; Miracles by Gor Mkhitarian
Bubbles with Ani – “The 1000 Mirrors”
The Next Step Theme Song is unveiled (composed and performed by Varoujan Movsesian)

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.