Ruslan KD Podcast

Father Josiah Opens Up About the Mysteries of the Orthodox Church

15 snips
Jun 27, 2025
Father Josiah Trenham, an Eastern Orthodox priest and author, shares his journey from a humble warehouse to leading a stunning church in Riverside. He delves into the lavish designs of Orthodox churches and the profound symbolism of worshiping eastward. The conversation critiques the secularization of universities and cultural institutions, urging Christians to engage and transform rather than retreat. Additionally, Father Josiah highlights the historical roots of hospitals in Christianity and the importance of divine suffering, providing rich insights into living faith in today's world.
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ANECDOTE

From Warehouse To Seven‑Domed Church

  • Father Josiah describes starting St. Andrew's in a hot, windowless warehouse next to a train track and building an altar with parishioners' hands.
  • They later purchased land near UC Riverside and built a seven-domed church modeled on a 13th-century Thessaloniki plan.
INSIGHT

Architecture As Theology

  • Orthodox sacred architecture intentionally uses costly materials and symbolism to express divine truth and the kingdom of God.
  • Churches face east to orient worshippers toward Christ's return and to re‑east their lives toward God.
ADVICE

Daily Reorientation Ritual

  • When someone becomes Christian in the Orthodox rite, publicly renounce Satan facing west and turn east to pledge loyalty to Christ.
  • Repeat this daily as a spiritual practice to remember your identity and mission.
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