Two dedicated young women, both named Julia, share their transformative journeys serving at St. Innocence Orphanage and Casa Cuna San Felipe in Tijuana, Mexico (https://www.projectmexico.org/casa-cuna-infant-orphanage). Working within the Project Mexico organization, they provide loving Orthodox Christian homes to boys ages 5-18 and babies from just days old to age 4 – all coming from situations marked by poverty, family instability, and often severe trauma.

 • All children come through DEAF (Mexico's equivalent of Child Protective Services) from situations involving poverty, drug issues, violence, or family instability
 • Orthodox faith infuses daily life with staff wearing crosses and prayer ropes, children kissing icons, and older boys finding purpose serving in the altar
 • Working with traumatized children requires creative approaches to discipline and understanding their unique backgrounds and triggers
 • Both Julias discovered their calling to serve in Mexico unexpectedly through short-term mission trips that transformed into long-term commitments
 • The orphanage's greatest needs include volunteers willing to commit 5-6 months, diapers and baby supplies, and consistent recurring donations

What began as one-week volunteer trips for both women evolved into life-altering commitments as they fell in love with the children and mission. Their stories reveal both heartwarming moments – babies enthusiastically kissing icons, older boys finding purpose serving in the altar – and heartbreaking challenges, including caring for medically fragile newborns and helping severely neglected children learn basic communication skills.

The orphanage environment offers these vulnerable children something powerful beyond physical care: living examples of faith in action. Staff members, whether American Orthodox volunteers or local Mexican employees, create an atmosphere where spiritual practices are naturally integrated into daily life. Children who arrive with no religious background quickly become curious about baptism, wearing crosses, and other expressions of Orthodox tradition, finding stability in these rituals and relationships.

From its humble beginnings in converted horse stables in the 1990s to today's multifaceted mission, Project Mexico demonstrates what's possible when faith motivates service. As the women explain, even small, consistent contributions – monthly diaper donations, regular prayers, or sharing their story – help sustain this vital work year-round, not just during popular summer mission trips.

Looking to make a meaningful difference in children's lives? Consider making missions part of your yearly rhythm – whether through volunteering, donating supplies to their Amazon wishlist, or committing to regular financial support. Most importantly, remember these children and caregivers in your prayers, asking Saint Innocent, Saint Philip and Guardian Angels to watch over this sacred work at the borderlands.

Please remember to pray for us. Pray to Saint Innocent, Saint Philip and Guardian Angels.

Visit our friends at: https://www.projectmexico.org/

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Apologetics in the Orthodox Church has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once "the world's best kept secret" now flourishes in digital spaces, revealing both opportunities and challenges for those communicating the ancient faith.

• Proper catechesis is crucial to maintaining authentic Orthodoxy with an American flavor rather than evangelical American Orthodoxy
 • Online Orthodox presence is substantial, often giving the impression it's larger than it actually is
 • Most Orthodox online voices are deeply committed to church life rather than being "terminally online" critics
 • Young men attending Saturday vespers and other services show the appeal of traditional worship
 • Orthodox churches are becoming more accessible across America, though some inquirers still live hours from parishes
 • Different apologetic approaches reach different people, and we should assume the best in those defending the faith
 • Resources like Father Paul Truebenbach's YouTube series and Patristic Nectar offer excellent catechesis
 • All Orthodox Christians are perpetual catechumens, constantly learning from the Church's 2,000-year tradition
 
 Join Ben “Orthodox Luigi” and Jeremy Jeremiah (of Cloud of Witnesses Radio) as we dive into the beautiful diversity of Orthodox apologetic approaches. Some people respond to straightforward, firm communication while others need gentleness and compassion. These differences aren't accidental but providential – God works through varied voices to reach people exactly where they are. Yet this diversity raises important questions about maintaining authentic Orthodox identity while speaking to American audiences.
 
 The conversation addresses common criticisms of online Orthodox presence. Far from being "terminally online," many digital apologists demonstrate deep commitment to liturgical life. Young men choosing vespers over Saturday night entertainment exemplifies this dedication. For those without nearby parishes, these online connections provide essential lifelines to the faith.
 
 Orthodox apologetics requires both grace and proper catechesis. Those defending the faith make themselves vulnerable to criticism simply by speaking up. Meanwhile, excellent resources like Father Paul Truebenbach's YouTube series and Patristic Nectar's materials complement parish-based instruction. Whether recently illumined or long-standing members, we remain perpetual learners in the Church's 2,000-year tradition.
 
 Have you encountered Orthodox Christianity online? How has it shaped your understanding of the faith? Share your experience and join the conversation about how different voices reach different hearts with the unchanging truth.

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Join Jeremy Jeremiah and Cloud of Witnesses Radio to welcome Professor Robert Fortuin to discuss the transformation of a humble midwife from a forgotten Alaskan village into America's newest recognized Orthodox saint!  This event represents a profound spiritual moment that defies all conventional expectations. Matushka Olga of Alaska emerges as both the first woman and first Yupik person glorified as a saint in America, her story a powerful testament to how extraordinary holiness can manifest in seemingly ordinary lives.

• Glorification services will be held in Kwethluk (Alaska), Anchorage, and Phoenix to make this historic event accessible to more people
 • Matushka Olga was known for her boundless hospitality while her priest husband traveled to remote villages
 • She served as a midwife and spiritual support for her community, never turning away anyone with problems
 • After her repose, many healings were attributed to her, leading people to make difficult pilgrimages to remote Kwethluk
 
From her remote home in Kwethluk—a village so isolated that visitors must fly to Bethel and then travel upriver by boat to reach it—Matushka Olga became the spiritual anchor for her community of just 200 people. While her priest husband traveled for weeks through dangerous terrain to minister to other villages, she remained behind, arms perpetually open to anyone in need. As the local midwife without modern medical facilities, she delivered babies in villagers' homes. But her ministry extended far beyond physical care—she became known for her boundless emotional and spiritual hospitality, never turning away anyone with troubles.
 
What makes her glorification particularly significant is how it challenges our notions of sainthood. Rather than emerging from ecclesiastical prominence or dramatic martyrdom, her sanctity blossomed through consistent, humble acts of love in a place many would consider desolate. After her earthly repose, numerous healings were attributed to her intercession, leading pilgrims to undertake difficult journeys to her remote village. As one icon of her beautifully states, "God can create great beauty from complete desolation."
 
The glorification ceremonies—scheduled across Kwethluk, Anchorage, and Phoenix—serve a dual purpose: honoring this remarkable woman while also drawing crucial attention to the ongoing needs of Orthodox Christians in remote Alaskan communities. Matushka Olga's story reminds us that divine grace works powerfully through those society might overlook, proving that no place is too remote and no person too humble to become a vessel of transformative love. 

If you're interested in Orthodoxy or learning more about St. Olga, please visit oca.org for more information. Come visit an Orthodox parish near you today.

Saint Olga of Alaska, pray to God for us!  

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What happens when the claims of a 200-year-old American religion collide with the 2,000-year history of Orthodox Christianity? Ben Langlois (Orthodox Luigi) (https://x.com/orthodoxluigi) joins Jeremy Jeremiah and Cloud of Witnesses Radio for a fascinating exploration of Mormon theology and its fundamental differences from historic Christian faith.  If you are an LDS believer, please watch this video and confront the challenges it brings.  
 
 The conversation begins with what Ben Luigi calls "the most devastating argument against Mormonism" – the historical continuity of the church through the ages. If Mormonism's foundational claim about a "Great Apostasy" is true, then what happened to Christianity for 1,800 years? How do we explain Christ's promise that "the gates of hell shall not prevail against my church" and that He would be with His followers "until the end of the age"?
 
 Jeremy and Ben dive deep into the theological inconsistencies within modern Mormon apologetics, particularly around their concept of the Godhead. While traditional Mormon teaching holds that God the Father was once a man who achieved divinity (part of an infinite regression of gods), many contemporary Mormon thinkers are adopting positions that sound increasingly like classical theism – creating major internal contradictions.
 
 The discussion also examines historical influences on Joseph Smith's theology, including his involvement with Freemasonry just months before introducing temple ceremonies with striking Masonic similarities. Yet perhaps most fascinating are the unexpected bridges between Mormonism and Orthodox Christianity – from language about becoming "like God" (though with crucial distinctions) to concepts around the Father's role within the Trinity.
 
 Whether you're a former Mormon seeking answers, a current member with questions, or simply curious about these theological traditions, this conversation offers compassionate clarity on what separates Mormon teaching from historic Christian faith while highlighting pathways toward deeper understanding between these communities.

Find an Orthodox Church near you today. Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home 

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What happens when we're unable to see the divine image in those across the political divide? The recent Los Angeles riots in response to immigration enforcement actions have revealed the deep wounds in our social fabric—and the critical need for spiritual perspective.  Join Jeremy Jeremiah, and Mario Andrew as they touch on this issue from an Orthodox perspective.

Pray for everyone involved in these conflicts, not just the people on the ground, but the higher-ups too that are making all of these calls.
 
Drawing from personal military experience, our conversation explores how protective equipment like bulletproof vests can transform more than just physical vulnerability—they can alter our perception of others. "When you're geared up, you're like wearing a suit of armor, you're invincible," shares Mario, describing how easily this mindset leads to dehumanizing those on the opposing side. This sobering reflection offers a powerful metaphor for our current social divisions.
 
We dive into the complex dynamics of law enforcement militarization, immigration policy, and Christian responsibility. The Orthodox understanding that every person—regardless of documentation status, political belief, or uniform—bears the image of God challenges us to look beyond superficial divisions. While acknowledging the necessity of laws and order, we grapple with showing Christ-like compassion to families caught in immigration enforcement actions.
 
The conversation ultimately leads us to our personal responsibility before God. Rather than attempting to control government actions or change others' beliefs, our faith calls us to prayer—for protesters, police officers, policy makers, and everyone affected by these conflicts. In times of division, perhaps our most powerful witness is seeing the icon of Christ in those with whom we most strongly disagree.
 
Listen now and join us in seeking a path forward that honors both justice and mercy in these challenging times. How might your perspective shift if you truly saw God's image in everyone involved in today's conflicts?

Find an Orthodox Church near you today. Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home 

 Visit Cloud of Witnesses Radio: https://cloudofwitnessesradio.com/

 Questions about Orthodoxy? Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: https://discord.gg/JDJDQw6tdh

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Descend with us into the very depths of hell to witness the most dramatic reversal in cosmic history. This haunting narrative takes you behind enemy lines to experience Easter from an unexpected perspective—the demons who believed they had won.

The ancient Christian tradition of the "Harrowing of Hell" comes vividly alive as we hear the voices of darkness celebrating what they believe is their ultimate triumph. "Let the dark heavens ring with our victory," they gleefully proclaim, preparing chains for the crucified Christ who now descends into their realm like countless mortals before him. Their celebration echoes through the "black vaults of Tartarus" as they rejoice that "the so-called light of the world has been extinguished."

But something unprecedented occurs—light begins penetrating the darkness. Confusion gives way to terror as the demons witness a figure "cloaked not in shadow, but in fire" whose "face is as the sun before time." The narrative reaches its climactic revelation as the underworld realizes its catastrophic mistake: "The cross was his weapon. His tomb was a trap for us." What appeared to be Christ's defeat was actually the instrument of his victory and death's undoing. As the ancient Easter proclamation declares: "Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death."

This powerful retelling invites you to see the Easter story through fresh eyes and contemplate its profound meaning—how light conquers darkness, how apparent defeat transforms into ultimate victory, and how death itself became the doorway to eternal life. Share this episode with someone who needs to be reminded that even the darkest moments can become gateways to unexpected triumph.

Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home

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What happens when we examine the foundational Protestant doctrine of Sola Scriptura through an Orthodox Christian lens? This thought-provoking seminar challenges the notion that Scripture alone is the final authority for Christians by examining biblical, historical, and theological evidence to the contrary.

Ben (Luigi), a former Protestant pastor's son who later embraced Reformed theology before finding his home in Orthodox Christianity, brings both personal experience and scholarly depth to this complex subject. With remarkable clarity, Luigi demonstrates how Scripture itself affirms the authority of oral tradition alongside written texts, pointing to passages where Jesus and the apostles relied on extrabiblical traditions as binding and authoritative.

The seminar explores how the early Church resolved doctrinal disputes through councils rather than individual interpretation, establishing a pattern that continued through the ecumenical councils which defined essential Christian doctrines. Ben tackles the challenging "canon conundrum" – how Protestants must rely on Church authority to establish which books belong in the Bible while simultaneously rejecting that same authority in matters of interpretation and practice.

Drawing from Church Fathers like St. Basil and St. Irenaeus, Ben reveals how the earliest Christians viewed Scripture and Tradition not as competing authorities but as complementary expressions of divine revelation. Even Protestant scholars acknowledge that the early Church didn't limit "inspiration" to canonical writings alone.

Whether you're an Orthodox Christian seeking to better understand and articulate your faith, a Protestant curious about Orthodox perspectives, or simply interested in Christian history and theology, this seminar provides valuable insights into how the earliest Christians understood authority, revelation, and the relationship between Scripture and Tradition. Join us for this illuminating exploration of a foundational theological difference that continues to shape Christian dialogue today.

Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home

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Stories of extraordinary courage often emerge from history's darkest moments. Around 300 AD, as Emperor Diocletian unleashed what would become one of Christianity's most brutal persecutions, a young woman's faith illuminated the gathering darkness.

Febronia possessed such remarkable beauty that suitors flocked to her door, none more persistent than Lysimachus, nephew of a high-ranking Roman official. What drew him wasn't merely her appearance but something deeper—a grace and humility absent in the pagan women of his acquaintance. Unknown to him, these qualities flowed from Febronia's secret Christian faith.

When faced with an imminent marriage proposal, Febronia made the unthinkable choice to abandon her comfortable life, fleeing eastward to her aunt's convent in Nisibis. There, her beauty proved so distracting that she read scripture from behind a curtain—a fitting metaphor for how true beauty remains hidden from worldly eyes. Meanwhile, Diocletian's deadly edict against Christians sent Lysimachus's uncle Silenus on a bloody campaign that would inevitably lead to the convent's door.

The confrontation between Febronia and Silenus reveals the power of unwavering conviction. Offered the chance to save herself by either denouncing Christ or keeping her faith private in marriage, she refused both: "I will not enter into marriage with a mortal man." Her martyrdom carried more power than her life, ultimately converting Lysimachus and many soldiers who witnessed her courage.

This forgotten tale reminds us that sometimes our greatest influence comes not from what we achieve but what we're willing to sacrifice. In a world that still values appearances and compromise, would we stand as firmly for what we believe?

Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home

Questions about Orthodoxy?  Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server:
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We dive into the complexities of Sola Scriptura and its role in shaping modern Christianity through the lens of non-denominational pastor Jakob Wendesten. This episode interrogates the interpretative nature of faith and the resulting fragmentation.

• Exploration of Jakob Wendesten's beliefs and ministry
• Discussion on Sola Scriptura and its consequences on denomination proliferation
• Examination of personal interpretation and the absence of central authority in modern faith

Please keep me in your prayers, as I'll keep you in mine.

*****

Faith has always been a labyrinth of complex beliefs, interpretations, and traditions. In our latest episode, we delve into the intricacies of Sola Scriptura, the idea that the Bible alone is the ultimate authority for Christian beliefs and practices. This episode features a compelling exploration of Jakob Wendesten, whose unique approach raises thought-provoking questions about faith, scripture, and the various interpretations that sprout from a seemingly singular source. Our discussion uncovers the tension present within modern Protestantism and how different views lead to a multitude of denominations, each claiming to reveal the purest interpretation of God's word.

The conversation begins with an introduction to Jakob Wendesten, a pastor who embodies the modern non-denominational movement. His followers resonate with his interpretations, but we challenge listeners to consider the deeper implications of his beliefs. The exploration of Wendesten's views reveals a broader issue at play — the fragmentation of faith that arises from individual interpretations of scripture. This brings us to the doctrine of Sola Scriptura. While it aims to establish the Bible as the foundational text guiding Christian life, it inadvertently paves the way for thousands of denominations, each asserting their understanding as the most authentic.

As we unpack Wendesten's beliefs, we also confront the idea of final authority. What are the consequences when every pastor interprets the scripture through their lens? The episode emphasizes the reality that without a governing authority—like a bishop or a traditional church structure—individual leaders often steer congregations based on personal convictions. This lack of a centralized authority can lead to varying doctrines that may not align with traditional understandings of faith.

Listeners are prompted to reflect on their spiritual journeys, questioning what it means to belong to a faith community that values personal interpretation. The discussions highlight the tension between ancient traditions and contemporary beliefs and encourage deeper exploration into what one must sacrifice when choosing a path different from the Eastern Orthodox Church. As the episode unfolds, listeners are invited to consider their spiritual lives in light of these discussions, considering the broader implications of faith within a rapidly diversifying landscape.

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Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home

Questions about Orthodoxy?  Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: 
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Is faith alone enough to unlock the gates of heaven? Join us as we unravel this profound question with our guest Jacob, who sheds light on the centuries-old debate surrounding the role of good works in salvation. Our discussion navigates through the contrasting beliefs of Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox Christianity, challenging the traditional notion of faith as the sole key to salvation. With scripture as our guide, from the book of James to the teachings of Christ, we reconsider how forgiveness and good works might factor into the divine equation.

Venturing further, we explore the Orthodox Christian viewpoint, which sees salvation not as a singular event, but as an ongoing, transformative journey towards the divine. This episode illuminates the concept of theosis and how Orthodox theology understands justification as the beginning of a deepening relationship with God. Whether you're well-acquainted with theological discourse or simply intrigued by diverse Christian doctrines, our conversation promises to challenge and enrich your understanding of faith, works, and salvation's true path.

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Find an Orthodox Church near you today.  Visit https://www.antiochian.org/home

Questions about Orthodoxy?  Please check out our friends at Ghost of Byzantium Discord server: 
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