In this homily, Fr. David explores the "sacred silence" and the struggle many Christians feel when trying to share their faith today. Are you stuck between the "paralysis of fear" and "unchecked zeal"? Drawing from the Gospel of Mark and the account of the Myrrh-bearing women at the tomb of Christ, we look at why modern platitudes often fail and why we must first have "something to say" before we speak. By discerning the presence of Christ in moments of vulnerability and shared suffering, we find a more authentic way to witness to the world. Whether you are part of our local parish or a local seeker looking for deeper meaning, this sermon offers a path toward speaking humbly and modestly about the Christ who sanctifies all of life. To support our parish and its ongoing ministries as we share the light of Christ with our community, you can give securely online here: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=E3E4Q2M6NHJT4

*"If you thought we were planting a mission for our own comfort, you’re going to be disappointed."* In this homily for Thomas Sunday, Father David addresses the "good problem" facing our parish: the nets are breaking. While many modern churches are struggling to fill seats, we are facing a reality where the room is packed and the work is never-ending. We recently saw *Fr. Josiah Trenham* (of Patristic Nectar) speak with *Tucker Carlson* about the rise of Orthodoxy and the beauty of the Ancient Faith. That same hunger is what is filling our pews today. But as Father David explains, planting new missions isn't a "fix" for the crowds, nor will it make the priest’s life any less busy. *In this video, we discuss:* * *The Mission Fallacy:* Why expanding to two new missions won't make our home parish "comfy" or "empty." * *The Screen Delusion:* Why being "chronically plugged-in" makes us live in fear, and how the Church offers a way out. * *The Breaking Nets:* Lessons from St. Thomas and the Miraculous Catch on how to handle explosive spiritual growth. * *The Promise:* Why Father David is committing his life to this "crowded" ministry, no matter how busy it gets. If you are tired of watching the world through a *screen* and are looking for something eternal, the "Heavenly Banquet" is ready—even if the pews are too full. *#OrthodoxChristianity #FrJosiahTrenham #ChurchGrowth #ThomasSunday #TuckerCarlson #AncientFaith #NorthCarolina #FirstOrthodoxState #Amen*

Dcn John Pelikan reflects on the Third Sunday of Great Lent—the Veneration of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross—and explains why the Cross is not a symbol of defeat, but the very source of our strength, joy, and new life. At the midpoint of Lent, when the struggle begins to feel heavy, the Church sets the Cross before us as a banner of victory—reminding us that Christ has already conquered death. In this sermon, Deacon John explains Christ’s threefold call: • “Deny yourself” — what it really means to leave behind the old life of sin • “Take up your cross” — how we crucify the passions through repentance • “Follow Me” — how the Church reveals Christ and teaches us to live in Him Drawing from Scripture, the Fathers, and the Lenten journey, this homily connects: • The Cross and the Resurrection • Baptism as death and new life • The spiritual struggle of Lent • The call to true repentance and transformation “Through the Cross, joy has come into all the world.” If you are seeking authentic Christianity, the life of the early Church, and the fullness of the Orthodox faith, this message offers both clarity and encouragement for your journey. 🙏 Please keep our parish and ministry in your prayers. 🔖 Hashtags #OrthodoxChristianity #GreatLent #HolyCross #AncientFaith #TrueChristianity