That Orthodox Mama’s Show

Stefani

That Orthodox Mama’s Show is where faith meets real life. Join Stefani as she explores Orthodox Christianity, marriage, parenthood, and purpose — with honest reflections and conversations to help us grow closer to Christ in today’s world.

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S1 · E26
August 22 · 33 min
Ep. 26: Orthodoxy FAQs: Prayer Ropes
You’ve probably seen an Orthodox Christian wearing a prayer rope. But what is it actually for, and how are we supposed to use one? In this latest edition of my Orthodoxy FAQs series, we’re talking all about the prayer rope: what it is, where the tradition comes from, why the knots and colors have meaning, and how it can help us grow in prayer. The prayer rope isn’t jewelry or something magical, but rather a simple tool meant to continually turn our hearts back toward Christ and help us live Saint Paul’s call to “pray without ceasing.” Whether you’ve carried a prayer rope for years or are just learning what one is, I hope this episode encourages you to make prayer a more consistent part of your everyday life. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ #Orthodoxy #PrayerRope #OrthodoxChristian #PowerofPrayer RESOURCES How do I use a prayer rope? - St. Michael Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church How To Use A Prayer Rope » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church Why You Need a Prayer Rope - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America Prayer ropes – what they are, what to do with them? – Saint John the Baptist How to Use a Prayer Rope - St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church
S1 · E25
August 15 · 30 min
Ep. 25: Are You Making Time for God?
If someone looked at your daily schedule, would they see that Christ is at the center of your life? In my last solo episode, I talked about why we belong in church. But what happens after Sunday? We attend Divine Liturgy, and then what? In this episode, I share practical ways to keep Christ at the center of our lives every day. But I'm certainly not speaking as someone who has this all figured out. I'm walking this path right alongside you. I talk about some of the practices I'm trying to be more intentional about in my own life, including prayer, Scripture, fasting, and simple ways we can invite Christ into our daily lives. If this resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ RESOURCES Orthodox Prayer Book (you should be also able to purchase one at your church or monastery): https://a.co/d/0bAinrAA Greek Orthodox Daily Readings Sign-Up LISTSERV - Subscribe (DAILYREADINGS) - LISTSERV.GOARCH.ORG Daily Readings App https://apps.apple.com/us/app/daily-readings/id516000464 Morning Prayers - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-before-sleep Prayers At Mealtime - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-at-mealtime Prayers Before Sleep - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-before-sleep Bible Chat App (featured a daily Bible verse widget for your smartphone lock screen): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bible-chat-daily-devotional/id6448849666 The Bible In A Year (with Father Mike Schmitz): https://open.spotify.com/show/4Pppt42NPK2XzKwNIoW7BR?si=xgmRO7CVTdObd4fp5GPB9A
S1 · E24
August 8 · 33 min
Ep. 24: Keeping Christ at the Center as Working Parents
Between work, raising children, keeping up with the home, and everything else that fills our days, how do we make sure Christ doesn't get pushed to the side? In this episode, my husband Polydoros joins me to answer a listener question about balancing work, family, and our Orthodox Christian faith. We certainly don’t have it all figured out, and we’re learning each and every day. But together, we share honestly about what we’re trying to do in our own family to keep Christ at the center while navigating the demands of working outside the home and raising our children. Our hope is that this conversation encourages other working parents to resist comparison, seek God's guidance, and find small, realistic ways to continually turn their homes and families toward Christ. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ #Orthodoxy #OrthodoxChristian #ChristianParenting #WorkingParents #ThatOrthodoxMama
S1 · E23
July 25 · 34 min
Ep. 23: Don't Give Up on Church
Whether you've never been to church or it's been years since you've walked through the doors, this episode is for you. Have you ever found yourself wanting to grow closer to God, yet struggling to make it to church consistently? In this episode, I share why church attendance matters, what the research says about its impact on our well-being, and why gathering for worship is essential to the Orthodox Christian life. I'll also address some of the most common reasons people don't go to church—from being too busy or too tired, to feeling hurt, disconnected, or overwhelmed—and offer practical, realistic ways to build consistency, even if you're just starting. My prayer is that this episode encourages you to take one faithful step closer to Christ and His Church. Whether that's attending this Sunday or simply making church more of a priority, remember: it's never too late. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ #OrthodoxChristianity #GoToChurch #OrthodoxFaith #ChristianLiving #ThatOrthodoxMama RESOURCES The Divine Services of the Orthodox Church with Commentary https://a.co/d/05gK8eH4 Religious-service attendance and subsequent health and well-being throughout adulthood: evidence from three prospective cohorts - PMC https://www.wsj.com/health/wellness/church-religion-mental-health-479d612a https://www.orthodoxstudies.org/documents/11/american-orthodoxy-today-2025.pdf The Nature of Our Worship - Questions & Answers - Orthodox Church in America
S1 · E22
July 18 · 27 min
Ep. 22: Finding What Was Lost: The Story of Saint Phanourios
Have you ever lost something and prayed for help finding it? In this episode, I share the incredible story of Saint Phanourios, the beloved Orthodox saint known for revealing what is lost. We’ll explore the miraculous discovery of his icon among the ruins of a church on the island of Rhodes, and why Orthodox Christians turn to him for his intercession. I also share a recent personal experience of praying to Saint Phanourios and what happened when I asked for his help. But this episode is about more than finding lost objects — it’s about understanding how the saints intercede for us before God, and how God works through those who have faithfully followed Him. May Saint Phanourios intercede for us all! 🙏 If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ #OrthodoxChristianity #SaintPhanourios #OrthodoxSaints #GreekOrthodox #ThatOrthodoxMama RESOURCES https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2022/08/27/108969-saint-phanourius August 27: Holy Martyr Phanourios | Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of Canada St Phanourios Feast Day Celebrations — Ascetic life of motherhood Why Orthodox Christians "Pray to" Saints » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church Fanouropita recipe (Saint Fanourios cake) - My Greek Dish
S1 · E21
June 27 · 49 min
Ep. 21: Faithful Marriage in Today’s World with Father Panteleimon Papadopoulos
The strongest marriages aren't the ones without problems... They're the ones that face them with Christ ☦️ In this episode, I sit down with Father Panteleimon Papadopoulos of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Resurrection in Brookville, New York to discuss what faithful marriage looks like in today's world. We discuss what happens spiritually when a husband and wife are married in the Orthodox Church, the "secret" to a long-lasting marriage, whether compatibility is overrated, and the common traps couples fall into during conflict. Whether you're newly married, have been married for decades, or hope to be married one day, I pray this conversation encourages you to keep Christ at the center of your marriage and your home 🙏 And if this conversation resonated with you, please consider sharing it with a friend or family member who may be encouraged by it ❤️ Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ #OrthodoxMarriage #ChristianMarriage #OrthodoxChristian #MarriageGodsWay #FaithAndMarriage
S1 · E20
June 20 · 25 min
Ep. 20: Discipline in the Orthodox Christian Life
Why is discipline harder than ever? In this episode, my husband and I sit down to discuss discipline in the Orthodox Christian life and the challenges Christians face in a world filled with distractions, technology, and instant gratification. We share some of the spiritual disciplines that have most impacted our faith, including prayer, fasting, reading the Scriptures, church attendance, confession, and family prayer. We also discuss areas where discipline can be difficult and why growth often comes through consistency rather than perfection. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by this conversation 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ #OrthodoxChristianity #OrthodoxFaith #SpiritualDiscipline #ChristianLiving #ThatOrthodoxMama
S1 · E19
June 6 · 31 min
Ep. 19: The Proverbs 31 Woman
“Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.” — Proverbs 31:30 ☦️ In this episode, I’m sharing a conversation about the Proverbs 31 woman and what this passage has personally meant to me throughout different seasons of my life. This passage isn’t meant to be a checklist of perfection or a reason to feel like we are falling short. It’s an image of wisdom and a source of spiritual encouragement. Most importantly, I reflect on how this chapter gives me spiritual fuel and reminds me that becoming a godly woman is not about perfection, but about faithfully growing in Christ day by day. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with a friend who may be encouraged by this conversation 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ RESOURCES The Orthodox Faith - Volume I - Doctrine and Scripture - Old Testament - Wisdom - Orthodox Church in America https://www.oca.org/orthodoxy/the-orthodox-faith/doctrine-scripture/old-testament/wisdom #Orthodoxy #OrthodoxChristian #GodlyWomen #Proverbs #Proverbs31
S1 · E18
May 30 · 25 min
Ep. 18: Living Alcohol-Free as an Orthodox Christian
Today, I’m sharing a more personal conversation about my journey living alcohol-free as an Orthodox Christian. I open up about my own past with alcohol, why I ultimately decided to stop drinking, and the physical, emotional, and spiritual changes I experienced throughout that journey. Most importantly, I reflect on what the Lord has shown me through it all. This episode is in no way meant to condemn anyone. It’s an account of my personal experience, and perhaps an invitation for you to self-reflect on your relationship with alcohol and how it impacts your spiritual life. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged by it. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ RESOURCES — Ephesians 5:18 “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” — Proverbs 20:1 “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” — Proverbs 23:21 “For drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” — 1 Peter 5:8 “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion.”— Psalm 103 (104):15 “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/add.70435
S1 · E17
May 23 · 24 min
Ep 17: Orthodoxy FAQs: Wedding Edition
Have you ever wondered why Orthodox couples wear crowns during the wedding ceremony? Why they walk around the table three times, hold candles, or don’t exchange vows? In this episode of my Orthodoxy FAQs series, I explore some of the most meaningful traditions within the Orthodox wedding ceremony and the spiritual symbolism behind them. This episode is especially beneficial for newly engaged and married couples, but I think also is insightful for Orthodox couples who have been married for a while to appreciate the significance of their blessed wedding day. Learning the meaning behind these traditions has helped me appreciate the depth, beauty, and intentionality of Orthodox marriage even more. A quick note: I am not a Presvytera or a Priest. This episode is shared from my personal learning and experience, and I always encourage you to bring questions like these to your parish Priest. If this episode resonated with you, please consider following the podcast and sharing it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ RESOURCES Explanation of Wedding — Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation https://www.atlgoc.org/explanation-of-wedding Stefana (Wedding Crowns and Candles) — St. George Greek Orthodox Church https://stgeorgegreenville.org/our-faith/marriage/stefana-wedding-crowns-and-candles “Crown them with glory and honor.” Marriage in the Orthodox Church — Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/crown-them-with-glory-and-honor-marriage-in-the-orthodox-church Why Orthodox Churches Face East — Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-orthodox-churches-face-east/ What to Expect in an Orthodox Church — Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/things-to-expect-orthodox-church/ #OrthodoxChristianity #OrthodoxWedding #GreekOrthodox #ChristianMarriage
S1 · E16
April 25 · 37 min
Ep. 16: Navigating Difficulties As An Orthodox Couple
In this episode, I’m joined by my husband Polydoros as we have an honest and heartfelt conversation about navigating the difficulties of marriage through our Orthodox faith. We reflect on what it means to remain a team in Christ, especially in challenging seasons, and learning to let struggles refine our marriage rather than harden it. We talk about expectations vs. reality, extending grace to one another, and cultivating gratitude in both the joyful and the difficult moments. Marriage isn’t always easy, but with Christ guiding us, every challenge can shape us into stronger, more loving spouses. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ RESOURCES Conversation starters for couples: 1. What’s one thing you’ve appreciated about me lately? 2. What’s a favorite memory of ours that always makes you smile? 3. What’s something small I do that makes you feel loved? 4. What’s something you’re proud of in our marriage? 5. When have you felt most supported by me?
S1 · E15
April 18 · 40 min
Ep. 15: The Power of a Praying Mother
“When mothers pray, hell trembles…” -Saint Paisios the Athonite This episode is a personal reflection on prayer in motherhood, during the busyness, long days, good and hard times, and all the moments in between. I share with you some encouragement from Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Paisios, as well as some of my own experiences so we can try to stay faithful everyday as strong mothers in Christ. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with a mother who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ RESOURCES The Power of a Mother’s Prayer - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/the-power-of-a-mother-s-prayer Admonitions for Parents: Lessons by Our Holy Father John Chrysostomos on Raising Children orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/parenting.aspx Spiritual Counsels, Volume IV: Family Life, Saint Paisios the Athonite https://www.athoniteusa.com/products/saint-paisios-the-athonite-spiritual-counsels-volume-iv-family-life Excerpts from the book Family Life, by Elder Paisios the Athonite orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/elder-paisios-on-family-life.aspx Orthodox Christian Parenting - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/archpastoral-reflections-july-2005
S1 · E14
April 2 · 23 min
Ep 14: Orthodoxy FAQs: Fasting Edition
Have you ever wondered why we fast from certain foods? Why we abstain from meat and dairy on Wednesdays and Fridays? In this episode of my Orthodoxy FAQs series, I walk through some of the most common questions about fasting as an Orthodox Christian and the meaning behind these sacred practices. Whether you’re a new convert, an inquirer, or have been Orthodox your entire life, this conversation offers deeper insight into the why behind what we do. Understanding the significance of these practices has deepened my spiritual life, helping me become more present, attentive, and prayerful. A quick note: I am not a Presvytera or a Priest. This episode is shared from my personal learning and experience, and I always encourage you to bring questions like these to your parish priest. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction 10:39 - Orthodoxy FAQs 12:57 - Why do Orthodox Christians fast from certain foods? 13:46 - Why can’t we have foods that contain blood? 14:09 - Why are olive oil and wine sometimes restricted? 17:00 - Are there different levels of fasting? 18:58 - Why do Orthodox Christians fast on Wednesdays and Fridays throughout the year? 20:07 - What do you do at parties and social events if you’re fasting? RESOURCES Great Lent - A Week by Week Meaning - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/great-lent-a-week-by-week-meaning And When You Fast - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/when-you-fast Orthodox Fasting - Questions & Answers - Orthodox Church in America https://www.oca.org/questions/dailylife/orthodox-fasting Fasting - Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Denver https://www.denver.goarch.org/fasting #OrthodoxChristianity #Orthodoxy101 #Orthodoxy #LearningOrthodoxy #OrthodoxFaith
S1 · E13
March 14 · 32 min
Ep 13: The Real Work of Lent with Father Demetrios Kazakis
When many people think about Lent, the focus immediately goes to food… what we’re giving up, what’s on our plate, and whether we’re “keeping the fast.” But the fast was never meant to stop there. In this episode, I sit down with Father Demetrios Kazakis of the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Paul in Hempstead, NY, for a thoughtful conversation about the deeper purpose of Lent and what the Church is actually inviting us into during this season. We talk about why fasting is about far more than diet, how repentance and spiritual guidance shape the Lenten journey, and what it really means to move forward when we stumble along the way. Whether you’re fully keeping the fast, struggling through it, or just trying to understand what Lent is really about, I know this conversation will encourage you as it did me. If this episode blessed you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who might need this reminder during Lent 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction  01:51 – What Is the Real Goal of Lent?  05:40 – Why the Fast Is More Than Food  10:26 – What Fasting Teaches Us Spiritually  12:30 – The Connection Between Fasting and Repentance  15:47 – The Role of a Spiritual Father During Lent  20:55 – How Do We Know We’re Moving in the Right Direction?  24:04 – Common Pitfalls People Experience During Lent  28:14 – What a Fruitful Lent Should Produce by Pascha #GreatLent #OrthodoxChristianity #LentenJourney #OrthodoxFaith #Orthodoxy
S1 · E12
February 21 · 30 min
Ep 12: Spiritual Encouragement for the Emotionally Burnt Out
Are you exhausted… but not just physically? In this episode, my husband Polydoros and I are talking about burnout — what it actually is, why so many of us (especially young adults and parents) are feeling it, and how it’s quietly affecting our relationships, our homes, and even our walk with Christ. While the term originally described workplace stress, many of us are experiencing it in parenthood, marriage, ministry, and daily life. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like you’re running on empty, this episode is for you. You don’t have to carry it alone. And Christ is the only true treatment and prevention plan for burnout in our lives. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction 00:47 – What is Burnout? 04:29 – Signs of Burnout 14:33 – How Burnout Impacts Our Relationships 17:14 – How Burnout Impacts Our Relationship with Christ 20:33 – Bible Verses on Burnout 24:06 – How to Navigate Burnout Through Christ RESOURCES Matthew 11:28-30 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Isaiah 40:28-31 So then, have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the God who created the ends of the Earth, neither hungers nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives strength to the hungry, and sorrow to those who do not grieve. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the elect shall be without strength. But those who wait on God shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not hunger. Jeremiah 31:25 I will refresh the weary and satisfy the faint. Psalm 72 (73): 26-28 My flesh and my heart may fail, O God of my heart; and God is my portion forever. For behold, those who keep themselves far away from you shall perish; you destroy away from you all who act unfaithfully. But as for me, it is good to cling to God, to put my hope in the Lord, that I may proclaim all your praises in the gates of the daughter of Zion. Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
S1 · E11
February 14 · 36 min
Ep 11: Finding a Godly Spouse
What’s guiding your dating decisions right now? We talk a lot about finding “the one.” But we don’t talk enough about discernment. Why don’t we think about this when we’re dating? Because dating culture tells us to go with the flow, not overthink it, follow the butterflies and see where it goes. In this episode, I share my personal experience and the moment I realized I needed to stop “going with the flow” and start looking for a strong man rooted in Christ. But most importantly, to prepare myself to be a godly spouse, not just to find one. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction 10:47 – Why Don’t We Think About This When We’re Dating 15:25 – My Moment of Realization 17:58 – The List 26:39 – Encouragement In The Preparation Season RESOURCES -Bible Chat App (features a daily Bible verse widget for your smartphone lock screen): https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bible-chat-daily-devotional/id6448849666 -The Bible In A Year (with Father Mike Schmitz): https://open.spotify.com/show/4Pppt42NPK2XzKwNIoW7BR?si=xgmRO7CVTdObd4fp5GPB9A #OrthodoxChristianity #ChristianDating #OrthodoxFaith #ChristianPodcast #ChristianSingles #FaithAndRelationships
S1 · E10
January 24 · 37 min
Ep 10: Why Church Matters More Than Ever with Father Nikiforos Fakinos
In a world where we’re more connected than ever, so many people are quietly struggling with loneliness, exhaustion, and a loss of meaning. Why is that? And what does the Church offer that nothing else can? In this episode, I sit down with Father Nikiforos Fakinos of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Merrick, NY for an insightful conversation about faith, community, and why the Church still matters, especially today. We talk about the deeper struggles people are facing emotionally and spiritually, why church life is essential (even when we pray at home), and what truly keeps people rooted in the faith for the long haul. Whether you’re a lifelong Orthodox Christian, a parent raising children in the faith, someone who’s drifted away or standing on the fence about coming back, or are an inquirer of the faith, I pray that this conversation blesses you like it did me. If this episode encouraged you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may need this reminder today. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction 00:58 – Fr. Nikiforos’ Journey to the Priesthood 05:01 – Loneliness in a Hyperconnected World 08:49 – Where People Are Struggling Most Right Now (Emotionally & Spiritually) 12:21 – The Reading of the Ten Lepers (Luke 17:12-19) 14:21 – Can We Believe in God Without the Church, and Why Does Church Still Matter? 16:04 – “We Pray at Home. Why Do Our Kids Still Need Church?” 20:49 – Staying Rooted in the Church for the Long Haul 22:06 – The Question Fr. Nikiforos Is Asked Most Often 23:36 – A Message for Anyone on the Fence About Coming Back to Church 28:46 – One Common Misconception About the Orthodox Church 31:14 – Why the Greek Language Remains Part of the Divine Liturgy 34:03 – A Greek Phrase You Hear Often, and Its Deeper Meaning
S1 · E9
January 10 · 22 min
Ep 9: Orthodoxy FAQs: Liturgy Edition
Have you ever wondered why we kiss the priest’s hand, light candles when entering the church, or stand throughout the Divine Liturgy? In this episode (the first in my Orthodoxy FAQs series), I walk through eight commonly asked questions about Orthodox Christian liturgy and the meaning behind these sacred practices. Whether you’re a new convert, an inquirer, or someone who has been Orthodox your entire life, this conversation offers deeper insight into the why behind what we do. Understanding the significance of these traditions has profoundly changed how I experience the Divine Liturgy, helping me be more present, attentive, and prayerful. A quick note: I am not a Presvytera or a Priest. This episode is shared from my personal learning and experience, and I always encourage you to bring questions like these to your parish priest. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction 04:51 – Why do we kiss the priest’s hand 07:26 – Why do we light candles? 11:53 – Why do we use beeswax candles 13:12 – What are icons? 13:45 – Why do we kiss icons? 15:53 – Why do we stand for liturgy? 19:48 – Why do we do our cross with three fingers? 20:40 – Why do we do our cross right to left? RESOURCES Why do we kiss the priest’s hand? -Kissing the Priest’s Hand – Greek Orthodox Christian Society https://lychnos.org/kissing-priests-hand/ -First Time Visitors - Transfiguration https://transfiguration.org/first-time-visitor/ -Why do Orthodox Christians kiss the hand of a bishop or priest? | Church Blog https://catalog.obitel-minsk.com/blog/2017/08/why-do-orthodox-christians-kiss-hand-of Why do we light candles? -Orthodoxy 101: Proper Etiquette & Worship Practices - Orthodox Road https://www.orthodoxroad.com/orthodoxy-101-proper-etiquette-worship-practices/ -Why Do Orthodox Christians Light Candles? » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-do-orthodox-christians-light-candles/ -Light a Candle - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/chapel/lightacandle -The Candles & Their Symbolism - St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church https://www.sthermansoca.org/orthodox-christianity/the-candles-their-symbolism/ Why do we use beeswax candles? -Why Do Orthodox Christians Light Candles? » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-do-orthodox-christians-light-candles/ Why are icons and why do we kiss icons? -Why Orthodox Christians Kiss Icons » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/why-orthodox-christians-kiss-icons/ Why do we stand for liturgy? -First Time Visitors - Transfiguration https://transfiguration.org/first-time-visitor/ -Why Orthodox Christians Stand During Services » Saint John the Evangelist Orthodox Church https://www.saintjohnchurch.org/standing-orthodox-church/ -Orthodoxy 101: Proper Etiquette & Worship Practices - Orthodox Road https://www.orthodoxroad.com/orthodoxy-101-proper-etiquette-worship-practices/ Why do we do our cross with three fingers? -Orthodoxy 101: Proper Etiquette & Worship Practices - Orthodox Road https://www.orthodoxroad.com/orthodoxy-101-proper-etiquette-worship-practices/ Why do we do our Cross right to left? -Sign of the Cross Direction - Questions & Answers - Orthodox Church in America https://www.oca.org/questions/teaching/sign-of-the-cross-direction -The Reason Orthodox Christians Cross Themselves from Right to Left – St. John the Merciful Orthodox Church https://johnthemerciful.org/the-reason-orthodox-christians-cross-themselves-from-right-to-left/
S1 · E8
January 3 · 33 min
Ep 8: Building Healthy Spiritual Habits
How do you build spiritual habits that actually last? In this episode, we share five Orthodox Christian practices shaping our faith and family life. The New Year often feels like a fresh start. While many of us focus on fitness or financial goals, our spiritual life deserves our attention first and foremost. For this episode, I sit down with my husband, Polydoros, to talk about five spiritual habits we’re actively working toward and what our journey with each has looked like. These are foundational Orthodox Christian spiritual practices that have shaped our faith and family life. We also speak honestly about the discipline, consistency, and grace it takes to remain faithful when life gets busy, especially as a married couple and parents. We’re not experts, and we’re certainly not perfect. We’re a Greek Orthodox husband and wife striving to follow Christ faithfully, one day at a time. And remember: you don’t need a New Year to recommit your life to Christ. He opens His arms to us at any moment, and we just have to open our hearts to Him. If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast and share it with someone who may be encouraged. 🙏 Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life! ☦️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction 06:58 – Habit 1: Church Every Sunday 14:22 – Habit 2: God’s Word First Thing 19:56 – Habit 3: Evening Prayers 22:58 – Habit 4: Prayer at Meals 27:19 – Habit 5: Fasting Wednesdays & Fridays RESOURCES Greek Orthodox Daily Readings Sign-Up LISTSERV - Subscribe (DAILYREADINGS) - LISTSERV.GOARCH.ORG Daily Readings App https://apps.apple.com/us/app/daily-readings/id516000464 Morning Prayers - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-before-sleep Prayers At Mealtime - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-at-mealtime Prayers Before Sleep - Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-before-sleep
S1 · E7
Dec 20, 2025 · 30 min
Ep 7: Why The Dinner Table Shapes Faith
In this episode, I reflect on the importance of family meals through the lens of Orthodox Christianity. The dinner table is not just a place where we eat. It can become a place of prayer, gratitude, and spiritual transformation, especially for our children. I share why family meals matter spiritually, how the Orthodox practice of praying before and after meals shapes a child’s (and even adult’s) awareness of God, and why this helps build our faith in the ordinary moments. For many families, the dinner table may be the only time during the day when God is acknowledged or prayer is practiced together. I also speak honestly about our own family meals journey. We did not always prioritize eating together, but over time we began to implement family meals with more intention. I share what changed for us and offer practical tips for making family meals more realistic and meaningful, even in busy seasons. If this episode resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with another family who may be encouraged. Always remember to keep Christ first. He is the way, the truth, and the life. ☦️ #FamilyMeals #OrthodoxChristianity #MealtimePrayer #FaithAndFamily #ChristianParenting #PrayerAtHome #FamilyTraditions #OrthodoxFaith #SpiritualParenting #ParentingWithFaith #FamilyTime #RaisingKidsInFaith #FaithInDailyLife #FamilySpirituality #ThatOrthodoxMama TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – Introduction 07:17 – Family Meals and My Upbringing 10:00 – Benefits of Family Meals for Children and Parents 16:42 – Why We Pray Over Our Food as Orthodox Christians 18:06 – Being Present in Your Prayer 21:43 – What to Pray at Mealtime 23:40 – Practical Tips for Implementing Family Meals RESOURCES: Prayers At Mealtime: https://www.goarch.org/-/prayers-at-mealtime Praying Before Meals (Everyday Orthodoxy - Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Grand Rapids Michigan): https://youtu.be/RzOKD0wZSV4?si=zyIR3esgCx3vf7AQ Benefits of Family Meals - Family Dinner Project: https://thefamilydinnerproject.org/about-us/benefits-of-family-dinners/ Family Meal Tips from the AAP: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/family-meals-eat-together-thrive-together.aspx

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