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."

Summer Wrap Up and the Electronic Horizon

Next Step #64: Wrapping up a busy summer and looking ahead at the electronic ministry to come, Fr. Vazken details some of projects that were developed during his Sabbatical and new steps for the electronic vision. The passing of Ted Kennedy, gives cause for reflection – about him, yes, but even more, about us and religion. The recent decision of the 9th Circuit court and the Armenian Genocide – how to counter the blatant disregard for justice.
Music: The Dance of the people of Trapizone, (Music of Armenian, Kanun)

The Evolution of the Fashion Show

Next Step #63: "The Evolution of the Fashion Show" or TURN AROUND THAT UPSIDE-DOWN MORTGAGE! Focusing in on goals and purpose is the key that leads to a productive life rich in flavor and meaning. Drawing from John 15, the metaphor of the grapes and the grapevine, is used to outline a simple diet guaranteed to bring results. Don’t get stuck with the raisins of life, at least not while there is rich and robust grapes waiting for the harvest. Just back from the desert, Fr. Vazken keeps it warm with music and thoughts for the next step in life.
Music: “The Fire of Your Love” by Hover Chamber Choir of Armenia
…and a bit of Tchaikovsky too!

The Virgin at Woodstock: What we learn from grapes

Next Step #62: It’s the 40th Anniversary of Woodstock and the FEAST of Assumption of St. Mary. Two events separated by millennium, held together by Armodoxy. Fr. Vazken delves into the notion of goodness and saints, by explaining that St. Mary – as the “Mother of God” is moreover the “Bearer of Love.” St. Mary’s life offers reflections on life lived with principles and a challenge to the listener to become today’s Mary. And what about the Grapes? Did you hear it through the grapevine? Here is a quick primer about the grape blessing service with notations from John 15 – Jesus is the vine, the Father is the vinedresser and we are the branches! The bearer of love, indeed! And was Jesus a member of the Counter Culture? Find out in this podcast that ties in the Virgin and Woodstock, Grapes and productive living. Also, the new and energized Fr. Vazken offers “Post-Sabbatical thoughts” and reflects on the necessary evils of church life. Putting all the circuits in place, here are some healthy tips of Christian living within the confines of Church structure.
Musical Selection: “Woodstock” by Joni Mitchell

Empire Ideas Stimulate Orthodox Thoughts

Next Step #61: Returning from a teaching trip in New York, Fr. Vazken reflects on many thoughts inspired by the Empire State. A cab ride to California could have made us miss the eclipse! But a quick stop at the Eastern Diocesan headquarters in Manhattan, a refreshing oasis at the St. Vartan park. St. Nersess Seminary and the wants/needs of the youth should not be missed. A look at the newly published “Armenian Church Edition” of the Holy Bible – and the NRSV translation. Can we do better than the Bible stories such as Noah’s Ark? And should we defend them just because we always have? And what about Bill Clinton’s diplomacy in North Korea? Women in the church (deaconess)? Even an exorcism this week gives Fr. Vazken a chance to see Armodoxy as a means of connecting to the essence of God’s love. There’s a good flow of ideas in this episode that you will want to ride.

Musical Selection: Armen Chakmakian’s Ceremonies – Enchantress

Ani’s Bubbles: The boy and his nails