St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Fr. Matthias Shehad explains the manifestation of the Holy Trinity during the baptism of Jesus Christ, highlighting the presence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in this significant event. He explores St. John the Baptist’s role as the forerunner who reveals the beginning of Christ’s ministry and emphasizes the connection between baptism, Christ’s death, and resurrection. Fr. Matthias discusses the forgiveness of sins through Christ’s sacrifice as the Lamb of God, tying the Old Testament sacrifices to the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus. He also explains how the sanctification and renewal through baptism transform believers into new creations, restoring the relationship between God and humanity lost after the fall. The sermon reflects on the transition from the Old Testament law to the grace brought by Christ and encourages believers to emulate St. John’s dedication in serving God. 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 study on the harmony of the Gospels, focusing on Jesus’ teachings about the hypocrisy and ambition of the Pharisees in Matthew 23. He explains the role of the Pharisees as teachers of the law, highlighting the contrast between their authoritative position and their failure to live according to God's intentions. Fr. Matthias explores themes of authority, obedience, and the misuse of religious power, illustrating how the Pharisees imposed burdens on people without genuine care. He reflects on the spiritual dangers of legalism, external appearances, and self-glorification, while underscoring the Christian call to humility and internal transformation. Fr. Matthias also addresses the pastoral application of these lessons by comparing them to contemporary challenges in the church, emphasizing the importance of sincere faith over outward ritualism. This teaching includes a deep look into how Jesus pronounces woes on the Pharisees for their actions and attitudes, and concludes with a plea for repentance and true devotion to God. 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 explores the story of Jonah the prophet, emphasizing Jonah’s humanity and his struggle with obedience and compassion. He explains how Jonah’s rebellion reveals the challenge of accepting God’s will, especially when it involves showing mercy to enemies like the Ninevites. Fr. Matthias highlights that God’s call to serve benefits both others and the one who serves, fostering growth, patience, and humility. The talk delves into Jonah’s attempt to flee God’s command by sailing to Tarshish, illustrating the futility of trying to escape God’s presence. Fr. Matthias draws parallels between Jonah’s experience and common human tendencies to avoid repentance, face distractions, and resist God's guidance. He also underscores God’s patient and loving approach to Jonah’s disobedience, using life’s circumstances to teach and correct without immediate judgment. By examining divine sovereignty over creation, Fr. Matthias contrasts the obedience of nature with human resistance, encouraging listeners to embrace God’s will with trust instead of irrational rebellion. This teaching invites reflection on personal struggles with sin, obedience, and the experience of God’s mercy and correction. 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 episode of the Living Incense Podcast, we reflect on evangelism as a core calling of the Christian life—not as a program, argument, or checklist, but as a natural response to encountering the truth of Christ. Fr. Matthias explains how evangelism has always been central to the life of the Church, from the apostles after Pentecost to the everyday witness of believers today. The conversation explores why evangelism flows from love rather than obligation, how neglecting it can lead the Church to become inward-focused, and why authentic evangelism is rooted in relationships, humility, and personal transformation rather than information alone. We discuss the role of joy, integrity, and daily life as powerful witnesses to the Gospel, as well as the place of the sacraments at the heart of Orthodox evangelism. This episode also addresses common fears and misconceptions, reminding us that success in evangelism is faithfulness, not results, and that every Christian—regardless of personality or knowledge—has a role to play. Evangelism is ultimately about living as a servant of Christ in every place, trusting the Holy Spirit to work through love, patience, and truth.

Elisabeth Abouelkheir (Missy) shares practical insights on navigating conflict within marriage, emphasizing that the purpose of marriage is sanctification rather than mere happiness. Drawing from her 32 years of marriage experience, she explains why conflict is inevitable due to individual differences and how it can be productive when handled with respect. Missy discusses Dr. John Gottman’s "Four Horsemen"—criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling—and how these behaviors predict marital outcomes. She offers guidance on creating plans for respectful communication, using I-statements, and managing emotions to prevent escalation. She highlights the importance of vulnerability, appreciation, and taking responsibility while addressing feelings without blame. Through real-life scenarios and audience interaction, Missy underscores the need for couples to build understanding, avoid hurtful patterns, and seek reconciliation. The talk concludes with practical strategies to improve conflict resolution and strengthen marital unity in the Orthodox Christian context. 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 Parable of the Prodigal Son from Luke 15. He explains the story of a younger son who demands his inheritance early, leaves home, and squanders his wealth in a distant land, symbolizing humanity’s rebellion and separation from God. Fr. Matthias discusses the son’s eventual repentance, his return to the father, and the father’s compassionate and immediate forgiveness, illustrating God’s mercy and the true meaning of freedom. Fr. Matthias also examines the response of the older brother, highlighting themes of grace, entitlement, and forgiveness. He connects the parable’s message to real-life struggles with sin, repentance, and the Christian call to mercy. This teaching emphasizes that repentance is an action, not just a feeling, and that God welcomes all who return with sincere hearts. 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 explores the harmony of the Gospels by examining Jesus’ response to the Sadducees’ challenge on resurrection and marriage in eternal life. He explains how Christ clarifies that earthly institutions like marriage do not continue in heaven, where believers are like angels, united in a spiritual community beyond exclusive earthly relationships. Fr. Matthias then unpacks the greatest commandments, emphasizing loving God with all one’s heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself. He highlights the connection between these commandments and Christian life, focusing on self-sacrificial love expressed through actions rather than emotions alone. Finally, he discusses Jesus’ teaching on the Messiah’s identity, revealing the divine nature of Christ as Lord and Son of David, drawing from Old Testament prophecies. Throughout, Fr. Matthias connects Scripture to practical faith, encouraging deeper understanding of resurrection, love, and Jesus’ mission. 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 journey of Christ toward Jerusalem, focusing on the teaching about salvation found in Luke 13. He examines the meaning of entering through the narrow gate, emphasizing the need for daily struggle, repentance, and true discipleship rather than mere proximity to holiness. Fr. Matthias explains Jesus’ parable of the great supper, illustrating how many reject God’s invitation due to worldly distractions and excuses, while salvation is open to all who respond in faith and repentance. He highlights Christ’s warnings about the final judgment, the importance of humility, and the call to serve others without expecting reward. The study also addresses Jesus’ conflict with religious leaders and the prophecy of Jerusalem's desolation. Fr. Matthias encourages viewers to examine their own spiritual path, urging a committed and disciplined pursuit of salvation in the light of Christ’s teaching and example. 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 explores the Parable of the Talents from the Gospel of Matthew, explaining its significance as a teaching about the Kingdom of Heaven. He unpacks how the master entrusts his servants with talents (money) according to their abilities and the varied responses they have—two servants invest and multiply their talents, while one hides his out of fear and laziness. Fr. Matthias discusses the meaning of these talents as God-given gifts and responsibilities, emphasizing that each person is called to use their unique abilities for service and growth in God’s kingdom. He highlights how faithfulness and diligence in small tasks lead to greater responsibility and joy in serving the Lord. The parable also warns of judgment for those who neglect their gifts. Through this teaching, Fr. Matthias encourages believers to understand stewardship, courage in service, and the importance of using all God’s gifts for His glory and the benefit of others. 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 reflects on the spiritual growth of St. John the Baptist as a model for believers to develop their own faith journey. He explores ten practical ways to measure growth in the spiritual life, including cultivating a hunger for God's truth, recognizing sin and embracing repentance, and increasing reliance on the Holy Spirit. Fr. Matthias discusses the importance of desiring to serve God daily, obeying Him regardless of the outcome, and deepening faith rooted in trust rather than understanding. The talk emphasizes valuing eternal treasures over earthly ones, fostering a love for private prayer, seeking God’s will in decision-making, and maintaining an ongoing awareness of God’s presence. Through these measures, believers can assess their progress in virtue and love, growing stronger in spirit as they prepare to live out their faith fully. 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 study on the Harmony of the Gospels by exploring key events of Holy Week, starting with Hosanna Sunday. He examines the people's conflicted expectations of the Messiah, the presence of Pharisees, and the significance of “Hosanna” as a plea for salvation. Fr. Matthias highlights how despite Jesus performing many miracles, belief in Him was limited because of hardened hearts and fear of persecution. He then discusses the cleansing of the temple, explaining the issue with money changers exploiting worshippers and Jesus’ righteous anger in restoring the temple’s sanctity. Fr. Matthias unpacks the cursing of the fig tree as a symbol of Israel’s spiritual barrenness, and Jesus’ teaching on faith and forgiveness, emphasizing that forgiving others is key to receiving God’s forgiveness. The talk also addresses practical questions about forgiveness, divorce, and healing from deep personal wounds, underscoring forgiveness as a process vital to Christian discipleship and spiritual health. 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 study on the Harmony of the Gospels by exploring Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, marking the beginning of Holy Week. He explains the significance of Jesus riding both a donkey and a colt, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy and symbolizing the unity of Jews and Gentiles under Christ’s kingship. Fr. Matthias discusses the varied reactions of the crowds, the disbelief of the Pharisees, and the disciples’ initial lack of understanding about Jesus’ mission and impending sacrifice. He highlights the spiritual meaning behind Jesus’ words about losing and gaining life, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the foreshadowing of the Temple’s destruction. The talk also addresses the importance of faith, discipleship, and following Christ’s example in service and obedience. Fr. Matthias concludes with reflections on Jesus’ prayer and God’s glorification through the Passion, inviting listeners to deepen their understanding of salvation history. 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

Eric Tadros holds a practical discussion on bringing thoughts captive by focusing on what to do after identifying distorted or maladaptive thinking. He explains how thoughts shape feelings and behaviors, and how avoidance and other reactions can reinforce anxious, jealous, angry, or fearful patterns. Eric outlines key influences on thought formation, including personality and genetics, upbringing and life experiences, culture, and the spiritual life. He reviews common cognitive distortions such as mind reading, catastrophizing, emotional reasoning, labeling, overgeneralization, and minimizing positives, then contrasts secular counseling approaches with a deeper spiritual framework. Eric presents a progression of watchfulness, acknowledgement, and confession, with practical tools like journaling, and applies reframing and virtue-based “acting opposite” using Scripture and examples from the lives of the apostles to emphasize transformation through lived experience. 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. James Gendi explores the meaning of "finding favor with God" through the example of St. Mary and King David. He explains how favor with God is closely tied to grace, humility, and sincere repentance. Drawing from scripture, Fr. James highlights St. Mary's humble acceptance of God's plan and David’s deep, sincere repentance despite his sins. He discusses the importance of responding to praise with humility and shares stories about spiritual gifts and the avoidance of pride. Fr. James emphasizes that believers today are also graced by the Holy Trinity, receiving the Holy Spirit and partaking in Christ’s body and blood. He points out that God’s favor can be attained by cultivating a humble heart like Mary’s or a repentant heart like David’s. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace humility and repentance to share in God’s grace and reflect His image in our 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

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues his study on the harmony of the Gospels by exploring the events around Lazarus Saturday and the anointing of Jesus by Mary of Bethany. He explains the significance of Lazarus’s resurrection as a foreshadowing of Christ’s own resurrection and discusses the division among the Jewish people and religious leaders in response to Jesus’s miracles. Fr. Matthias examines the motives behind the Sanhedrin’s plot to kill Jesus, highlighting the political concerns of the Pharisees and the fulfillment of prophecy through Caiaphas’s words. He also unpacks the symbolism of Mary’s costly anointing of Jesus, contrasting it with Judas Iscariot’s criticism, and reflects on the importance of faith and genuine sacrifice. The talk connects Old Testament traditions like the Passover and tithing with their New Testament fulfillment in Christ’s sacrifice, emphasizing God’s sovereignty over human plans and the extension of salvation beyond Israel to all nations. 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

Nagy Wassef explores the meaning of Psalm 23, emphasizing God's ongoing presence as "my shepherd" who meets all our needs daily. Drawing parallels between David’s experience as a shepherd and our relationship with God, he highlights the dependence and vulnerability of sheep as metaphors for human life. Nagy discusses how God leads us beside still waters, restores our souls, and protects us against life’s challenges with his rod and staff. He explains key verses, including the present tense nature of God’s care, the importance of trusting God even through life’s valleys, and the overflowing blessings symbolized by “my cup runs over.” Through biblical stories and practical reflections, Nagy encourages cultivating a personal relationship with God, recognizing his guidance in both big and small moments, and trusting in his lifelong faithfulness. This talk offers a detailed look at Psalm 23’s themes of protection, provision, and spiritual restoration. 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

Michael Sedrak explores the story of the Samaritan woman and Lord Jesus Christ, focusing on the themes of salvation, patience, and human response to God’s invitation. He examines how God's love extends to all, regardless of sin or background, emphasizing that both the sinner’s repentance and God’s outreach are essential for salvation. Sedrak highlights the historical animosity between Jews and Samaritans to underscore the significance of Christ’s encounter with the Samaritan woman. Drawing from scripture and teachings of Pope Shenouda, he reflects on God’s gentleness in dealing with sinners and the transformation that follows sincere human response. Sedrak also discusses how strong personalities, like the Samaritan woman’s, can be used by God for His kingdom when redirected. He encourages listeners to remain patient and prayerful for those who have yet to embrace salvation, trusting in God’s timing and mercy. 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. Polycarpus Shoukry explores the vital theme of hearing God and how it shapes spiritual transformation. Drawing from Gospel accounts such as the paralytic healed through faith and St. Peter’s experience casting nets, he emphasizes the need not just to hear but to truly listen and abide by God’s word. He discusses the parable of the sower, highlighting how the condition of our hearts affects our reception and fruitfulness from God’s message. Fr. Polycarpus challenges believers to focus amid distractions and approach Scripture with patience, attention, and a desire to understand beyond surface-level reading. Reflecting on the demands of a fast-paced world, he calls for a deliberate, patient commitment to Scripture—recognizing its value as a gift offered through Christ’s sacrifice. The message invites listeners to tune their spiritual ears, cultivate a receptive heart, and allow God’s word to take root and bear fruit in daily life. 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 explores the theme of thanksgiving through the story of Hannah, the mother of Samuel, highlighting how she navigated sorrow, prayer, and faith despite her barrenness. He discusses Hannah’s personal pain, the provocation from her rival, and how she turned to honest prayer rather than bitterness or escape. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of persistent prayer, trust in God’s wisdom, and finding peace in His presence regardless of whether prayers are immediately answered. The talk delves into the spiritual significance of free will, God’s protection, and the purpose behind suffering. Drawing lessons from Hannah’s vow and Eli’s blessing, Fr. Matthias encourages embracing patience, contentment, and a deepened relationship with God. This Bible study offers reflections on faith, repentance, and the transformative power of prayer in the midst of trials. 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

Dr. Abraham Ghattas explores emotional support within Christian marriage, emphasizing the unity and one-flesh principle between spouses inspired by Christ’s incarnate nature. He connects theological foundations to practical relationship dynamics, highlighting the importance of emotional maturity alongside spiritual growth. Ghattas discusses common causes of emotional distress, including personality differences, past trauma, mental health, and unmet emotional needs. He addresses misconceptions such as trying to change one’s spouse or expecting transactional love, advocating instead for love rooted in humility, understanding, and mutual support. Communication strategies, active listening, and recognizing defense mechanisms are explained as vital tools for supporting a spouse emotionally. Dr. Ghattas encourages couples to cultivate honesty, develop a shared “rule of life,” and balance prayer with practical actions. The talk offers a grounded approach to nurturing emotional intimacy, emphasizing ongoing personal growth and the interdependence of spiritual and emotional health in marriage. 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