https://www.allsaintsnc.org/schedule Fr. David reflects on the Second Sunday of Great Lent, when the Orthodox Church commemorates St. Gregory Palamas. In this homily, Fr. David explains the Orthodox teaching about the distinction between God's essence and His energies, and why this teaching matters for how Christians understand grace, prayer, and the Christian life. What did the Apostles actually see at the Transfiguration? When we receive grace from God, do we receive something created—or do we truly receive God Himself? Drawing on the teaching of St. Gregory Palamas, Fr. David explains how the Orthodox Church understands that when God gives His grace, He gives His very life, inviting us into communion with Him. Fr. David also reflects on St. Gregory’s deeper teaching about prayer—especially the struggle to bring the mind into the heart, overcoming distraction so that we may truly unite our mind, will, and heart with God. At the beginning of the homily, Fr. David also shares joyful news about the birth of his daughter Victoria and asks for prayers for his family. If you are exploring Orthodox Christianity or interested in the spiritual teaching of the early Church, this homily offers a simple introduction to one of the most important saints and teachings of the Orthodox tradition. 🙏 Please keep Fr. David’s family in your prayers. Support the mission and help us continue welcoming God's creation into the Orthodox Church: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E3E4Q2M6NHJT4 #OrthodoxChristianity #StGregoryPalamas #OrthodoxPrayer #OrthodoxTheology

https://www.facebook.com/allsaintsnc The Triumph of Orthodoxy: Faithfulness in a Culture War Age https://www.allsaintsnc.org/monthly-calendar What does the “Triumph of Orthodoxy” really mean today? On the first Sunday of Great Lent, the Orthodox Church commemorates the restoration of the holy icons in 843 AD — the victory over iconoclasm and the preservation of the true faith. But what does that triumph look like in America today? As Orthodox Christianity grows in places like Raleigh, North Carolina — and across the United States — new temptations arise. Will the Church become absorbed into the culture wars? Will we confuse political loyalty with faithfulness to Christ? Will we become defensive gatekeepers — or careless compromisers? In this sermon for the Sunday of Orthodoxy, Fr. David reflects on: The historical restoration of the holy icons The real meaning of the “Triumph of Orthodoxy” The growth of Orthodox Christianity in the West How to welcome inquirers without surrendering the faith Why repentance — not culture war — is the Church’s true battle The triumph of Orthodoxy has never been worldly dominance. It has always been small groups of believers remaining faithful. If you are searching for the original Church, ancient Christianity, or authentic Orthodox faith in North America, this message is for you. Let us not become obstacles to repentance — for others or for ourselves. Christ is in our midst.... He was, He is, and He always shall be.

Forgiveness Sunday. The exile of the first-fashioned, Adam, from the Paradise of delight. Day's readings: https://www.antiochian.org/epistleliturgicday/4472 Discover how the Orthodox Church’s practice of fasting and heartfelt forgiveness can lead you to lasting inner peace. In this sermon, Fr. David explore: - Why true peace begins with letting go of anger and resentment - The spiritual significance of Lent and how abstaining from meat, dairy, and eggs deepens your relationship with God - Practical steps to cultivate mercy, humility, and divine nourishment during the fast - Biblical insights from St. James and the example of Abraham that show faith alone isn’t enough without love and forgiveness Whether you’re new to Orthodoxy or seeking deeper spiritual growth, this video offers clear, compassionate guidance to experience the “bread of life” that satisfies both body and soul. 🔔 Subscribe for more Orthodox teachings on prayer, fasting, and living a peaceful Christian life. 👍 Like if you feel called to embrace mercy today. Keywords: Orthodox Church, Lent 2026, fasting guide, forgiveness, inner peace, spiritual peace, Christian meditation, mercy, St. James, biblical fasting, peace in Christ, Orthodox spirituality, how to fast, peace through forgiveness, Christian peace, Lent fasting tips, Orthodox Lent 2026, find peace in church. Hashtags: #OrthodoxChurch #Lent2026 #Fasting #Forgiveness #InnerPeace #ChristianSpirituality #PeaceInChrist

Judgment Isn’t What You Think — The Orthodox Truth About the Last Judgment What *really* happens at the Last Judgment? On this Sunday of the Final Judgment, Fr. David Winn unpacks Christ’s teaching about the dread day when the Son of Man comes in glory and separates the sheep from the goats. But judgment in Scripture does not simply mean punishment — it means *division*, the divine act of separating truth from falsehood, life from death, holiness from sin. Through Christ’s parables — the Ten Virgins, the Talents, and the Sheep and Goats — we discover a startling truth: the Kingdom of Heaven is revealed through judgment. Not merely judgment at the end of time, but judgment beginning now within our own hearts. This sermon explores: * Why God’s judgment is both fearful *and* merciful * What it means to ask God to judge us today * How Lent prepares us for the coming of Christ * Why purification is painful — and necessary If you’re searching for ancient Christianity, the faith of the early Church, or a deeper understanding of repentance, this message is for you. **Christ is in our midst!** --- **Tags / Keywords:** Last Judgment, Orthodox Christianity, Final Judgment Sunday, Great Lent preparation, sheep and goats parable, Orthodox sermon, repentance, early Church faith, true Christianity, Eastern Orthodox teaching, spiritual purification, Fr David Winn sermon