St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Fr. Matthias discusses the challenges and realities of building a godly marriage in the 21st century. He explores common newlywed conflicts, societal shifts affecting marriage such as delayed marriage age, increased female workforce participation, and changing family dynamics. Fr. Mina explains the Orthodox Christian view on marriage as a path to salvation, emphasizing sacrifice, forgiveness, and the presence of God in the couple’s life through active faith and church accountability. He addresses how the institution of marriage has evolved from Old Testament practices and arranged marriages to modern dating, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and discernment in choosing a spouse. Fr. Mina also talks about the church’s stance on procreation within marriage and the impact of societal trends on divorce rates. This discussion offers foundational insights into understanding and pursuing a marriage rooted in faith and commitment.

Joe Costandy explores the allegorical interpretation of the biblical story of David and Goliath, focusing on its deeper spiritual meanings beyond the literal and moral layers. He explains the symbolism of key characters, showing Saul as a figure representing Adam and David as a symbol of Christ, the beloved son who replaces the first king. Joe discusses the significance of the battle setting, the representation of Satan and humanity, and how David's victory prefigures Christ’s triumph over evil through humility and obedience to God. He also highlights how the story reflects God's broader plan for humanity’s salvation and the spiritual battle between good and evil. Drawing from early church fathers and Scripture, Joe emphasizes that the allegorical reading complements the literal account, revealing the richness of biblical narratives as part of God's unfolding revelation.

In this sermon, Fr. Younan William reflects on the true meaning and purpose of the Great Fast as a season of spiritual renewal and loyalty to Christ. He emphasizes that fasting is not merely about dietary restrictions but a tool for gaining self-control, deepening prayer, repentance, and fellowship with Christ and the church. Fr. Younan encourages preparing the right mindset, combining physical fasting with spiritual practices, and consecrating time away from distractions like media addiction. He also stresses the importance of seriousness, consistency, and adhering to the church’s fasting rules under the guidance of one’s spiritual father. By avoiding half-hearted fasting and focusing on inner transformation, believers can persevere through challenges and strengthen their spiritual journey. Fr. Younan calls on all to follow Christ not only for blessings but even amid hardships, walking with Him in humility and endurance.

In "Have You Seen the One I Love": Contemplation on Song of Solomon 1:15, Eric Tadros explores the deep spiritual relationship between the soul and God as reflected in the Song of Solomon. Eric discusses how the Lord views the soul as beautiful and desirable, even amid sin, emphasizing God’s persistent desire for the soul’s return. Eric highlights the importance of seeking God's testimony over worldly praise, using examples like John the Baptist, St. Mary, and others who appeared plain outwardly but were great in the sight of the Lord. He reflects on themes like labor, faith, love, confession, and humility as qualities that make the soul beautiful to God. The symbolism of “dove’s eyes” is explained as representing spiritual insight and the presence of the Holy Spirit, urging believers to maintain purity, presence, and peace in their gaze and interactions. Eric encourages embracing the paradox of the Christian life where God's standards differ from the world’s, seeking to hear, “Behold, you are fair, my love.”

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the challenges of balancing spiritual life with daily responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God’s presence in all aspects of life—whether at work, church, or home. He discusses practical ways to incorporate prayer and spiritual practices into busy schedules, like listening to sermons or praying the Jesus Prayer during everyday tasks. Fr. Matthias highlights the significance of aligning personal goals with God’s will and recognizing spiritual growth as a gradual journey rather than an instant outcome. He stresses the value of accountability through confession and community support, encouraging active service within the church as a form of spiritual expression. By addressing distractions and time management from both a secular and spiritual perspective, Fr. Matthias offers guidance on maintaining inner peace and nurturing a closer relationship with Christ through consistent spiritual discipline and fellowship.

In this continuation of the series on Jonah the Prophet, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores God's sovereignty over creation as revealed through Jonah’s story. He examines Jonah’s resistance to God’s command to preach to Nineveh, contrasting Jonah’s apathy with the pagan sailors’ active efforts to survive the storm. Fr. Matthias highlights Jonah’s spiritual numbness, depression, and lack of compassion that lead him to isolate himself rather than seek God’s help. The talk delves into Jonah’s realization of his inner failings, the sailors’ recognition of God’s power, and the unfolding divine plan through the prepared great fish. Fr. Matthias draws connections between Jonah’s prayer from the fish’s belly and the hope of resurrection, emphasizing faith and thanksgiving even amidst suffering. This message encourages believers to respond faithfully to God’s call, embrace transformation through trials, and trust in God’s mercy and salvation.

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of the glory of God through the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, highlighting its biblical foundations and spiritual significance. He discusses the role of Simeon the Elder and the prophecy revealing Christ as the light for the Gentiles and the glory of Israel. Fr. Matthias examines how God's glory is shown in scripture through creation, miracles like healing the man born blind, and the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. He emphasizes that God's glory is not for self-exaltation but so that people may believe and receive salvation. Fr. Matthias encourages believers to reflect on how their lives can glorify God through obedience, faith, compassion, and perseverance in suffering, citing the example of the Coptic martyrs. He also addresses the importance of forgiveness and prayer in manifesting God's glory and calls Christians to live in a way that draws others to glorify God through their witness and good works.

In this episode of Living Incense, we reflect on how the ordinary rhythms of modern life—work, responsibilities, screens, and constant busyness—quietly shape our priorities and often crowd out our spiritual life without us realizing it. What begins as necessary activity can easily turn into distraction when balance is lost, even when the things occupying our time appear good or productive. The conversation explores what truly defines a distraction, emphasizing that the issue is not time alone, but intention, balance, and the ongoing tension between the spirit and the flesh. We discuss how spiritual life cannot be reduced to a fixed formula or percentage of the day, but must be lived wisely within each person’s responsibilities, while still protecting intentional, consecrated time with God. We also examine inner peace from a Christian perspective, not as the absence of struggle or emotion, but as the fruit of trusting God and remaining rooted in Him through both ease and suffering. Drawing from Scripture and lived experience, the episode highlights why spiritual growth is gradual, why consistency matters more than visible results, and how God often works quietly over time to form us. Finally, we speak about recovery when spiritual rhythms break down, the importance of accountability through a father of confession, and the role of the Church as a supportive community that helps us carry one another’s burdens. This episode offers encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed, reminding us that the spiritual life is a journey of faithfulness and return, not perfection.

Michael Sedrak explores the meaning of doing everything "to the glory of God," emphasizing the importance of intention behind good works. He distinguishes between external actions and internal motivations, urging believers to serve with sincere hearts, relying fully on God’s grace rather than their own strength. Drawing from Scripture, including St. Paul's letters and the story of Abraham, Michael explains how Christians are called to perform their tasks as God’s workmanship, with humility and trust even when circumstances seem impossible. He highlights the connection between sacrifice and love, warning against a half-hearted or prideful approach to serving God. Michael also reflects on the transformative power of beholding God's glory, as experienced by St. Peter, and encourages believers to continually glorify God for their growth and renewal. His message calls for faith, endurance, and reliance on God in all aspects of life and service. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad discusses the concept of offenses and stumbling blocks in the Christian life, focusing on their causes and remedies. He explains how distorted portrayals of God and the Church, teaching God's word without living it, promoting human traditions over divine commandments, and neglecting essential doctrines can lead others to stumble. Fr. Matthias also highlights the confusion caused by exposing children to conflicting beliefs and by selectively ignoring Church teachings. He offers remedies such as seeking the true faith through scripture, faithfully following God's commandments despite societal pressure, acknowledging human weakness with humility, and diligently verifying teachings against the Bible. Fr. Matthias calls believers to be examples of faith and light amid a perverse world, guiding others to salvation through their unity, obedience, and authentic Christian witness. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad reflects on Jesus Christ as the light of the world, emphasizing how believers are called to reflect His light to others. He explains that when God's light shines within us, it enables us to see God’s work in our lives, understand His commandments, and find hope in our calling as children of God. Fr. Matthias discusses the importance of spiritual self-reflection, helping us recognize our weaknesses and repent. He highlights the challenge and necessity of loving others, even in the midst of personal brokenness. Fr. Matthias also explains how this enlightenment is received—through the sacraments, the word of God, and by continually looking to God for guidance and strength. Drawing on biblical examples, he encourages believers to trust in God's protection and presence in all circumstances. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the theme of self-understanding through the healing of the man born blind by Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of seeing ourselves clearly, not by comparing to others, but by measuring against Scripture and God’s design for humanity. Fr. Matthias discusses how true self-awareness reveals both strengths and weaknesses, encouraging humility, repentance, and growth. He highlights practical ways to deepen self-knowledge, such as prayer, Bible study, and listening to sermons. Understanding ourselves helps us make better decisions, maintain healthier relationships, and serve others effectively. The message stresses the dangers of self-ignorance, including poor choices, strained relationships, and repeated failures. Fr. Matthias invites believers to ask God for spiritual sight to truly know themselves and reflect Christ’s healing in their lives. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Q&A session from the St. Monica Parenting Meeting, Fr. Matthias Shehad addresses common challenges parents face in nurturing the spiritual and emotional health of their children. Fr. Matthias explores detrimental parenting behaviors such as authoritarianism, permissiveness, neglect, and the impact of parental conflict on children. He emphasizes the importance of positive discipline, consistency, modeling good behavior, and maintaining open, respectful communication within the family. Fr. Matthias also discusses how to approach children struggling with ungodly behavior without judgment, the balance between being a parent and a friend, and guiding children’s choice of friends. Practical advice is shared on setting family habits that foster a Christ-centered home, managing discipline systems, and handling common issues like children’s interests differing from gender norms or reluctance to participate in prayer and church. Throughout, Fr. Matthias highlights the long-term perspective in parenting, encouraging patience, humility, and grace in raising children. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this talk, Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the Orthodox Afterlife Series by exploring the concept of "The Harvest," the spiritual journey of the soul after death. He discusses near-death experiences and the role of guardian angels in guiding souls through the transition from earthly life to the afterlife, referencing Scripture, the Church Fathers, and contemporary monastic teachings. Fr. Matthias explains the presence of angels and demons at the time of death, highlighting the spiritual challenges faced by the soul in the crossing-over process. He clarifies Orthodox beliefs about the afterlife, including the rejection of the toll houses doctrine while affirming the reality of spiritual temptations and divine protection through angels. The talk also shares historical and modern accounts of interactions with guardian angels and the importance of prayer for protection during this passage. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad addresses questions related to faith and practice during challenging times. He explores historical instances when Coptic churches were closed, highlighting perseverance in prayer at home and the enduring love of Christ. Fr. Matthias discusses the impact of body-related compliments, emphasizing discernment and respect in communication. He explains why the Coptic Orthodox Church chants its liturgy, tracing its roots to Jewish worship and its role in creating a spiritual experience that reflects heavenly worship. The talk also covers how to approach reading spiritual books, stressing the importance of knowing the authors’ backgrounds and exercising discernment, especially for beginners. Fr. Matthias clarifies the use of respectful titles for clergy, connecting it to honoring the priesthood rather than personal character. Throughout, he encourages spiritual guidance and balanced growth in the faith, underscoring that prayer and worship continue even outside the physical church. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the harmony of the Gospels by examining two key passages from the Gospel of John: the healing of the man born blind and Jesus’ teaching as the Good Shepherd. Fr. Matthias addresses the disciples’ mistaken belief that suffering is always due to personal sin, explaining the deeper spiritual meaning behind this miracle and how God’s glory is revealed through trials. He unpacks the healing story, including the dialogues between the healed man, his neighbors, the Pharisees, and Jesus, highlighting themes of faith, spiritual blindness, and the journey to recognizing Christ as the Son of God. Fr. Matthias then explains Jesus’ parable of the Good Shepherd, illustrating the distinction between true and false leaders and emphasizing Christ’s self-sacrificial love for his flock. This teaching also points to the inclusivity of salvation for all—Jews and Gentiles alike. This study offers reflections on faith, suffering, divine authority, and the nature of Christ’s pastoral care. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the story of the paralyzed man in John chapter 5 within the context of the Jewish feast mentioned. Fr. Matthias explains the significance of the Pool of Bethesda, its location by the Sheep Gate, and its symbolic meaning relating to the Jewish people and the Law of Moses. He examines the dialogue between Jesus and the paralyzed man, highlighting the man’s long suffering, Jesus’ healing authority beyond the pool, and the man’s response of faith and gratitude. Fr. Matthias also discusses the controversy surrounding Jesus healing on the Sabbath and clarifies the true purpose of the Sabbath as a day of doing good in alignment with the Father’s ongoing work. A theological discourse follows on the unity between the Father and the Son, focusing on Jesus’ divine authority, the role of faith in Him for eternal life, and the final resurrection and judgment. The study concludes with reflections on rejecting true prophets and the importance of embracing the Messiah promised in the Scriptures. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his Bible study on the harmony of the Gospels by exploring John chapter 6, focusing on the identity of Christ as the Bread of Life. He explains the context following the miracle of feeding the 5,000 and the significance of Jesus’ teaching on spiritual nourishment versus physical sustenance. Fr. Matthias addresses the misunderstanding of the crowd seeking only physical blessings instead of eternal life, emphasizing the necessity of faith and internal transformation over mere works. The talk delves into Christ’s declaration “I am the bread of life,” highlighting the connection to the Eucharist and its central role in salvation. Fr. Matthias clarifies the relationship between physical and spiritual realities in the sacraments, explaining how consuming Christ’s flesh and blood symbolizes union with Him and eternal life. He also reflects on the challenges faced by those who struggled with this teaching and the importance of continued faith despite difficult doctrines. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the Harmony of the Gospels Bible study through the events of Holy Tuesday in Holy Week, focusing on how Christ responds to confrontation and traps from the chief priests, scribes, elders, Pharisees, and Herodians. Fr. Matthias walks through Jesus being questioned about His authority in the temple and explains why Christ answers by asking about the baptism of John, exposing the leaders’ fear of the people and unwillingness to commit to the truth. He then covers the Parable of the Two Sons, contrasting outward religiosity with repentance and obedience, and connects it to tax collectors and harlots entering the kingdom of God before self-righteous leaders. Fr. Matthias explains the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers across Matthew, Mark, and Luke, identifying the vineyard, the prophets, the Son, the rejected cornerstone, and the transfer of the kingdom to a people bearing fruit. He concludes with “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s,” including a discussion on worship, authority, and the image of God in man. Subscribe to us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@StPaulHouston Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stpaulhouston/ Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores how God prepares us for salvation through His Word, focusing on the prophetic role of Zacharias and the calling each believer receives to live purposefully. He reflects on the importance of recognizing personal vocation beyond formal roles, emphasizing living a Christian life as a witness in a challenging world. Fr. Matthias discusses the themes of divine judgment, using Noah’s story as a call to readiness and preparation. He also highlights how God equips us for hardships, illustrated through Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream, encouraging believers to trust God through trials. The message includes how prophecy strengthens the faithful, referencing Daniel’s vision during Israel’s exile, and concludes with the example of the wise men who followed divine guidance to worship Christ. This sermon invites listeners to respond actively to God’s call, seeking Christ not only for blessings but as an offering of love and devotion. Subscribe to us on YouTube https://youtube.com/stpaulhouston Like us on Facebook https://facebook.com/saintpaulhouston Follow us on SoundCloud https://soundcloud.com/stpaulhouston Follow us on Instagram https://instagram.com/stpaulhouston Visit our website for schedules and to join the mailing list https://stpaulhouston.org