What happens when faith, resilience, and the challenges of military life intersect? Join us for an insightful conversation with Hannah Helena, a Navy veteran whose journey from a Roman Catholic upbringing in Deer Park, Texas, to becoming an Orthodox Christian is nothing short of inspiring. Hannah reflects on her early years, serving in the church and playing the viola in the choir, and how those experiences laid the groundwork for her enduring faith. She opens up about her rebellious teenage years, the profound struggles of losing friends to suicide, and her own battles with depression. Yet, it was during her time in the Navy that she found solace and strength in her spiritual practices, learning to navigate the demanding nature of military life while maintaining her faith.

We also tackle the critical issue of mental health in the military, particularly the stigma surrounding men expressing their emotions. Hannah offers a candid look into the superficial nature of the Navy's suicide awareness training and shares personal anecdotes that highlight both the toxic environments she sometimes faced and the invaluable leadership skills she gained. Her journey continues as she discusses becoming a catechumen, choosing Saint Helen of Constantinople as her patron saint, and the profound impact of her favorite biblical passage, the story of Lazarus, on her life. Tune in to hear how Hannah’s faith, resilience, and commitment to spreading positivity have shaped her civilian life, and how her spiritual journey continues to inspire those around her.

Thank you to our special guest Hannah Helena!

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Thank you for journeying w/ the Saints with us!

What if our understanding of early Christian art has been entirely misunderstood? Join us as we uncover the profound significance of iconography in the Orthodox Church, challenging the common notion that religious imagery was a later corruption. Reflect on Fr John Reimann's journey from a Methodist background to discovering the richness of iconography through my academic experiences at UCLA. We'll shed light on how icons, even from the catacombs of Rome, reveal a deep, historical connection to our creation in God's image and our divine calling to holiness.

Explore how early Christian veneration practices are deeply rooted in Jewish traditions. Early Christians, many of them converts from Judaism, brought along the custom of venerating sacred texts, a practice that seamlessly transitioned into Christian liturgy. We dive into the placement and use of icons in early churches and the controversies they sparked, from improper practices to the veneration of tombs and requesting prayers from the departed. These traditions underscore a seamless continuity from Jewish roots to Christian worship, enriching our understanding of early Christian practices.

The journey of icon veneration in the Orthodox Church is a story of resilience and theological depth. From the brutal iconoclastic controversies, where defenders of iconography faced severe punishments, to the resolution that established icons as windows to the divine prototype, we paint a vivid picture of this historical struggle. Learn about the importance of depicting Christ and saints accurately and understand the proper etiquette for venerating icons. Finally, we reflect on the spiritual realities manifested through iconography, reminding us of our sanctification and connection to the divine during liturgy. Tune in for a profound exploration of how icons elevate our worship and remind us of our eternal calling to holiness.

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You can visit Fr John at Saint Anthony the Great Orthodox Church, in San Diego, CA:
https://st-anthony.org/

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Thank you for journeying w/ the Saints with us!

What if you could witness a transformation so profound that it challenges the very essence of your faith? In our latest episode, we promise to uncover the secrets behind the ancient Greek concept of transfiguration and its deep spiritual implications. Journey with us as we reflect on the timeless testimony of St. Peter, delve into the complexity of creation, and explore the awe-inspiring Old Testament encounters with God's glory. Through these reflections, Fr John Reimann helps us find hope and assurance in God's steadfast promises amidst the turbulent waves of modern life.

But the journey doesn't end there. Discover the transformative power of divine grace as we recount historical and personal stories of God's intervention, including the compelling narrative of the woman caught in adultery. We'll celebrate the unique paths to holiness exemplified by saints such as St. Marie of Paris and Mother Olga of Alaska, illustrating how God's love uniquely transforms each individual. Join us in embracing the possibility of becoming more like God through His power, grace, and the inspiring intercessions of the saints.

If you're interested in Orthodoxy, visit a parish near you and visit antiochian.org

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Thank you for journeying w/ the Saints with us!