In our third episode of this sermon series, we begin to look at the involvement of Orthodox Christians in our elections and political campaigns. This homily sets the stage for the discussion of individual actions which will be the focus of next week's homily. In this talk, we look at how the Church has interacted with the evolution of classical liberalism and the political theory that led to republican/representative democracy. We also examine scriptural and historical relationships between Church and state and how various verses may be misused for political purposes.

On the Feast of the Universal Exaltation of the Cross, Bp. Irineos recounts the story of the finding of the Cross, and comments upon the epistle reading - that the preaching of the Cross is a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Greeks - and how that passage might apply today to the Christian sects disconnected from the historic Church.

The Death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg - As we enter the second week of our series on Living a Christian Life in the Age of Internet, Isolation, and Elections, world events shape our outline. The death of Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg aroused very different reactions from people across the nation. But in the homily today, Bp. Irineos takes issue with "Christians" who looked at her record of supporting abortion and progressivism and other beliefs antithetical to Orthodoxy as a reason to celebrate her death. Bp. Irineos suggests that our reaction to the death of those who support moral positions that we condemn should be guided God's desire for the repentance of sinners. What does a desire to celebrate the death of someone we oppose say about our own understanding of our sinfulness and pathway to salvation? And to what lengths will people go to justify the satisfaction they feel when they celebrate the death of an enemy?

Bp. Irineos begins a multi-week series of homilies focusing on the challenges of living a Christian life in the present age of expansive internet platforms, isolation stemming from COVID-19 and other cultural shifts, and turmoil accompanying the coming election.

This week we will draw on the account of Paul's visit to Athens and his encounter with the Greek philosophers on the Areopagus (Acts 17:16-34). What can we learn from Paul's reaction to a city inthe thrall of idols, a mocking label of him as a "babbler", and his efforts to carry the Gospel to a pagan culture? Can we draw on common ground in our religious discussions? What are the effects of reacting in anger?

The parable of the rich young ruler ought to be a cautionary tale to us in North America who, relative to so much of the world, live in wealth and excess. In today's homily, Bp. Irineos considers the place of riches, how they hinder our salvation, and if we can truly Sell All!

On the day after Fr. Symeon's repose, Bp. Irineos shared a few memories of father after the liturgy at Holy Annunciation parish.

As Paul pleads the humilty and lowliness of the Apostles in today's epistle reading, Bp. Irineos reflects on how far our modern culture has fallen from the sense of humility and love for enemies that the follower of Christ exemplified. Drawing on the teachings of St. Maximus the Confessor, he urges the faithful to examine themselves whenever they are angry or feel offended.

Reflecting on the Gospel account of Jesus walking on the water to his disciples, Bp. Irineos compares the disciples plight on the violent sea to our life in the current times. We were never promised smooth sailing. But when we put our faith in God, He is there to save us in the storm. The current turmoil we live in is no match for our God. Do not let the fear of the storm cast your gaze away from the Lord, but call on him, lest you sink!

On the Feast Day of the Prophet Elijah, Bp. Irineos shares a little from his life, and considers the statement of Christ in the Gospel that no prophet is accepted in his own country. Considering the life of the Prophet Elijah, Bp. Irineos suggests why this statement is true.

Preaching today on the Epistle reading (Romans 15:1-7), Bp. Irineos draws on the commentary of St. John Chrysostom in examining the exhortation given to us by the Apostle. This reading calls us to a self-sacrificing love of neighbor, reinforces our communal responsibility to one another, and urges us to receive into the Church all who come to confess the true faith. And we are reminded that our sacrifice for others is not a gift, but our repayment to God who by Grace has made us strong.