Our Church Speaks

Hosts Ben and Dan talk about the inspiring witness of Polycarp of Smyrna, who studied at the feet of John of the Apostle. Their conversation covers the significance and content of Polycarp's epistle to the Philippians and his profound confidence in Christ exhibited at his martyrdom. // Cover art by Ben Lansing. More info about Our Church Speaks and how to order the Our Church Speaks devotional at www.ourchurchspeaks.com. Support this podcast at https://buymeacoffee.com/ourchurchspeaks

The discussion delves into the significance of Lent, highlighting its role in fasting and reflection. Holy Week's emotional journey is explored, from the somber moments of Maundy Thursday to the joy of Easter. The power of the Ascension and its impact on the disciples’ belief in resurrection is examined. Pentecost's initiation of the church is also discussed, emphasizing its importance in connecting daily life to spiritual growth. The liturgical calendar is framed as a tool for character shaping and preparation for Christ's return.

Dive into the rich tapestry of the church liturgical calendar! Discover the beauty of Advent as a time for reflection, anticipation, and spiritual growth. Explore how the significance of Christmas and Epiphany unveils Jesus as the Messiah through key events like the wise men's visit. Unpack the transformative power of structured prayer, and see how these seasons not only enrich individual faith but also foster community spirituality. It's a journey to deepen your connection with God!

In this season finale episode, Ben and Dan discuss one additional Advent-themed saint - Nino, the Enlightener of Georgia. A contemporary of Saint Nicholas and Saint Lucy, Nino is a lesser known saint with a story of profound courage inspired by love. Our Church Speaks will resume with season 2 in February, 2025. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!Cover art by Ben Lansing. The Our Church Speaks Devotional, Our Church Speaks 2025 wall calendars, and prints are available at www.ourchurchspeaks.com

Hosts Ben and Dan discuss the Advent-themed saint, Lucy of Syracuse who lived and died during the Great Persucution of Emperor Diocletian and gave her life for her faith in Jesus Christ. Ben and Dan talk about Lucy's life and why her memory is so associated with the power of the light, even amidst growing darkness. Cover art by Ben Lansing. Order the book "Our Church Speaks: An Illustrated Devotional of Saints from Every Era & Place" by Ben Lansing & D.J. Marotta (published by InterVarsity Press) wherever books are sold. More info - www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

Good news: Santa is real! Hosts Ben and Dan discuss the true story of Saint Nicholas ("Santa Claus") and how his care for the poor and helpless coexisted with his passion for precise Trinitarian theology. Ben and Dan discuss Nicholas' life and times, his legacy to the church, and traditions associated with his memory. Cover art by Ben Lansing. Order the book "Our Church Speaks: An Illustrated Devotional of Saints from Every Era & Place" by Ben Lansing & D.J. Marotta (published by InterVarsity Press) wherever books are sold. More info - www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

Daniel Payne, a classical education teacher at Veritas School and co-host of The Lamp Post Listener, joins the conversation to explore the life and impactful works of C.S. Lewis. They discuss Lewis's remarkable journey from atheism to faith and how his writings, especially 'The Chronicles of Narnia,' resonate with both adults and children. The talk delves into Lewis's reflections on grief after losing his wife, his critiques of societal elitism in 'That Hideous Strength,' and his lasting influence on Christian thought and literature.

Hosts Ben Lansing and D.J. Marotta talk about Hilda of Whitby, an inspiring 7th century saint who served as a monastic leader at a critical time in the history of the church in England. Ben and Dan trace the story of the English church to the earliest centuries of church history and reflect on the growing need for a revival of abbesses, abbots, monastic communities, and church mothers in our own day. Cover art by Ben Lansing. Order the book "Our Church Speaks: An Illustrated Devotional of Saints from Every Era & Place" by Ben Lansing & D.J. Marotta (published by InterVarsity Press) wherever books are sold. More info - www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

In this episode, hosts Ben Lansing and D.J. Marotta discuss the remarkable Russian saint, Herman of Alaska, his ministry to the subarctic Aleut people, and his significance as a Christian example of embodied, incarnational service. // Art by Ben Lansing. Order the book "Our Church Speaks: An Illustrated Devotional of Saints from Every Era & Place" by Ben Lansing & D.J. Marotta (published by InterVarsity Press) wherever books are sold. More info - www.ourchurchspeaks.com.

Ben and Dan explore the story of the South American Saint Martin of Porres, who overcame prejudice and hardship through a life of faith that was fed by his profound discipline of prayer. ----------- Cover art by Ben Lansing. ORDER the book "Our Church Speaks: An Illustrated Devotional of Saints from Every Era & Place", support this project on Patreon, get prints / calendars, and more at www.ourchurchspeaks.com.