Word & Table

Father Stephen breaks down the reason why Christmas is always December 25 but Easter moves around. More than you ever thought you wanted to know about solar and lunar dating and how Christians do it differently from Jewish and Muslim holy days. Email the show Support the show Music: "Creator alme Siderum." From Sublime Chant by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers. Copyright GIA Publications.

Father Stephen introduces us to another Apostolic Father, Clement, an early bishop of Rome who knew Peter and Paul who wrote a letter admonishing the Corinthian Church. Music: "Creator Alme Siderum" by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers from Sublime Chant. Copyright GIA Publications. Email the show. Donate to the show.

Exploring the ancient Christian and Jewish practice of fasting, delving into its spiritual logic and the connection between fasting and prayer. Discussing the true purpose of fasting to promote justice, compassion, humility, and seeking the Lord. Highlighting the significance of fasting in Christianity through reflections on Jesus' teachings and spiritual transformation.

Delving into the symbolism of the feeding of the 5,000 in the Bible and its connection to worship today. Exploring the differences and similarities in the gospel accounts of this miracle. Highlighting the parallels between the feeding miracle and the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the significance of bread and the Eucharist.

Exploring the historical origins and contemporary functions of the vestry council in a parish, including member selection, legal responsibilities, and the importance of wardens. Discussing the duties of the church vestry in selecting the rector, mission planning, budgeting, and overseeing physical property while maintaining a focus on spirituality. Exploring the practicality of vestries as representatives of the laity in church decision-making processes.

Some announcements about the next year of Word & Table and how you can support the show going forward. In short: We are moving to a bi-weekly schedule for the time being. We want to ask for your help for us to cover this next year's costs. Donate at wordandtablepodcast.com Click on the '$' link for an online gift.

Fr. Stephen and Alex dive into the life and works of Justin Martyr, an early church philosopher. They discuss his transition from philosophy to Christianity, his writings defending the faith, the influence of Platonism and Stoicism, early Christian worship practices, and Justin's theological reflections on the Eucharist and the comparison between Mary and Eve.

Delving into the unique nature of the Book of Hebrews, this podcast explores the theme of hope as a steadfast anchor in challenging times. Discussing Jesus as the ultimate high priest and the superiority of the new covenant, it highlights faith as a journey towards assurance and direct connection with God.

Learn about the fascinating discovery of a lost ancient church manual, the Didache, and delve into its contents revealing insights on Eucharist practices, charity to the poor, and hospitality customs in the early church. Explore the evolution of church structures, the historical roots of the Eucharist, and the significance of moral values and liturgical practices in early Christianity.

We discuss all things regarding ordination: how ministers come to be ordained, the rite itself, the meaning behind bishops' clothes, and why deacons, priests, and bishops exist in a religion that is also a priesthood of all believers. Email us your questions! Music: "Ave Verum Corpus" from Sublime Chant by Richard Proulx and the Cathedral Singers. Copyright GIA Publications.