Word & Table

Exploring the theological significance of Christmas, family traditions, and the best Christmas album picks. Unveiling the symbolisms of Christmas services and the power of Jesus' name. Delving into unique Christmas Eve traditions and Bruce Coburn's creative carols.

Father Stephen explores the significance of holy water in Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox services, emphasizing purification and baptismal connections. The podcast delves into the rituals, symbolism, and transformative power of holy water in religious practices, focusing on blessings, purification, and renewal during the Easter Vigil ceremony.

Unpacking the origins of sacramentals like the sign of the cross, holy water, and sacred images in Christian worship. Exploring the significance of rituals and symbols in Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox services. Discussing the interconnectedness of body and soul in spiritual expression, and the importance of discernment in approaching sacred practices.

Father Stephen explores the deep meaning of Advent and how we can anticipate the Lord's coming, emphasizing Christian hope. The podcast discusses the themes of preparation, anticipation, and hope in Christianity, as well as the Advent traditions and origins. It delves into the transformative impact of hope, the symbolism of Advent wreath candles, and the importance of reflection during the season.

Exploring the origins of the Sanctoral Calendar and commemoration of saints, regional variations, the canonization process using Mother Teresa as an example, evolution of the Lectionary, significance of colors in the liturgical calendar, reflection on the apostles' understanding of the gospel during Pentecost.

Explore the origins of liturgical calendar, transition to Sunday worship, Easter and Passover celebrations, Christmas origins, Lent significance, and progression from Advent to Pentecost in Christian tradition.

Father Stephen discusses the historical development of church structure, from bishops to provinces. The evolution of Anglican provinces and their organizational structure is explored. The roles of bishops and archbishops are highlighted, along with the biblical basis for the church hierarchy.

Exploration of the origins and functions of Bishops, Priests, and Deacons in the Church hierarchy. Discussing the evolution of church organization from Jesus' ministry to the roles of apostles and early church leaders. Highlighting the authority of Bishops to define doctrines and administer sacraments, as well as the important roles of Priests and Deacons in serving the church community.

Explore the history and purpose of the Book of Common Prayer in Anglican churches, focusing on its role in communal worship and inclusivity. Learn about the diverse prayers and liturgies within the book, from Ash Wednesday to ordination ceremonies. Discover the significance of daily prayers, rooted in monastic practices, and the deep connection between prayer, belief, and worship in the Anglican tradition.

Discussion on scripture, creeds, and the transformative power of scripture through obedience and listening. Exploration of general and specific revelation, the role of the Holy Spirit, and embracing God's will through scripture.