The Church as the body of Christ | Sermon Topics

December 31, 2023

Humility and Spiritual Discernment at the Table of Immortality

Unknown preacher

Reflecting on Luke 22:24–30 at the close of the year, the preacher contrasts worldly power with Christlike humility and explains the apostles’ promised authority as moral discernment formed through accountability and service. The congregation is urged to make spiritual growth a New Year’s resolution by setting goals, acting, assessing their fruits, and changing course when necessary. The pomegranate is then interpreted as a symbol of Christ’s kingship and sacrifice, the unity of the Church, and gratitude for every day of the coming year.

Luke 22:24-30; John 13:1-17

November 12, 2023

Faith Deepened in Believing Community

Rev. Fr. Mesrop Ash

Using Christ’s raising of the ruler’s daughter, the preacher teaches that shared, mature faith deepens communal prayer and receptivity to the Holy Spirit. The faith of the paralytic’s friends and the dismissal of catechumens from the Eucharistic portion of the Divine Liturgy illustrate how believers strengthen one another and should prepare themselves to encounter Christ.

Luke 8:49–56; Mark 2:1–12; Proverbs 27:17