2nd Annual "Christmas with the Church Fathers" with Gavin Ashenden (Pope Leo the Great) | Ep. 54

Dec 24, 2025

Gavin Ashenden, a theologian and former Anglican priest, joins to share profound insights from Pope Leo the Great's Christmas sermons. He reads and reflects on the importance of fasting and self-restraint as essential to spiritual growth. The discussion emphasizes recognizing one's dignity as a Christian and the joy of Christmas as a time for gratitude and generosity. Gavin urges listeners to be mindful of their spiritual practices and the significance of the nativity, ultimately fostering hope and readiness for the new year.

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ADVICE

Fast Body And Mind; Give Alms

Fast with both body and mind by denying sinful desires as well as food.
Give alms generously so earthly riches become heavenly treasures.

INSIGHT

Soul Rules Body; Mind As Palace

The soul must govern the body so the mind can be a 'palace' for divine wisdom.
Self-restraint trains the mind to enjoy spiritual rather than fleshly delights.

ADVICE

Keep Regular Fasts And Vigils

Keep regular fasts and vigils (Wednesday, Friday, Saturday) and involve Peter's intercession.
Combine fasting with almsgiving and prayer for God's favor.

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CULTIVATING SAINTS, SAGES, AND STATESMEN THROUGH THE GREAT TRADITION OF CHRISTENDOM

In this episode, we officially inaugurate an annual Eternal Christendom Christmas tradition with our friend and colleague Dr. Gavin Ashenden: "Christmas with the Church Fathers." Last year, we were privileged to have Gavin's beautiful voice read a profound and moving Christmas sermon by St. Augustine, upon which we reflected.

This year, Gavin reads and we reflect upon two powerful sermons by St. Pope Leo the Great: Sermon 19 for Advent (delivered December 14, 452) , and Sermon 21 for Christmas (delivered December 25, 440). This great Saint, Church Father, Doctor of the Church, and Pope reminds us in both of these sermons that the coming of God in the flesh as a baby ought remind Christians of their profound dignity, from which flows their serious duties and high calling.

A Happy Advent, and Merry Christmas to all!

See 2024's "Christmas with the Church Fathers" reading of St. Augustine: https://youtu.be/r4U3fRLV558?si=AtuAcmSCwl-vPLV5

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CHAPTERS

00:00 - Intro

05:28 - Sermon 19 (Pope Leo the Great) for Advent

14:33 - Sermon 19 Reflection

27:52 - Sermon 21 (Pope Leo the Great) for Christmas

35:29 - Sermon 21 Reflection and Conclusion

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