In this long-awaited episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John are joined by Jeff Messina: 4th degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, Judo black belt, owner of the Revolution Dojo, paratrooper & infantryman, theology graduate, & newly-illumined Orthodox Christian.

Jeff shares his powerful journey from the mat to the Church, weaving together themes of discipline, humility, struggle, & faith. With decades of experience training & teaching, he offers insights on how martial arts can shape not only the body but also the soul... & how Orthodoxy calls men to a higher form of strength: ascetic, sacrificial, & Christ-centered.

Takeaways:

• Struggle shapes our character & faith.
• Discipline in training parallels spiritual discipline.
• Community support is vital in both martial arts & faith.
• Ego can hinder growth in both training & spirituality.
• The journey of faith is continuous & requires effort.
• Understanding lineage in faith & martial arts is crucial.
• Failure is a part of growth and learning.
• Humility is essential in both training & spiritual life.
• Accountability helps maintain focus & purpose.
• Living out one's faith is a daily practice.
• Why Orthodoxy is, in Jeff’s words, “the Jiu-Jitsu of Christianity.”

Soundbytes:

• “Formation is not just spiritual... it’s also physical.”

• “The world tells men to dominate or disappear. Orthodoxy calls us to sacrificial leadership.”

• “You can’t just go once a week: in the gym or in the Church. Faithfulness is daily.”

• “Orthodoxy is the Jiu-Jitsu of Christianity. If you want the truth, this is it.”

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to the Journey of Faith & BJJ

04:36 Jeff Messina's Path to Orthodoxy

08:54 Apostolic Succession & Knowing Your Roots

11:51 Jeff Messina's Martial Arts Journey

17:14 Intersection of BJJ & Orthodoxy

22:41 Sola Scriptura & Tradition

27:04 The Professor & The Spiritual Father

29:24 On Failure, Repetition, & Humility

32:00 On Remaining Dispassionate While Fighting

35:28 Jeff's Advice to Christians Interested in Martial Arts

40:50 Tempering Convert Zeal

43:48 Living Orthodoxy: A Compelling Witness

46:07 The Selfishness & Pride of "Ritual Purity"

52:22 A Call to Orthodox Men & BJJ Practitioners Alike

54:19 Where Can You Find Jeff Messina

55:46 Closing Thoughts & Looking Ahead

58:57 Outro

Support the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: ⁠⁠⁠coff.ee/OrthodoxHealth⁠⁠⁠Work with Dr. Mike: ⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠⁠

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore how the body itself is a school of formation.

Building from last week’s conversation with Fr. Zechariah Lynch on the war against the Incarnation, this discussion goes deeper into the theology of movement, the sanctifying role of suffering, & the communal power of training together.

From the Desert Fathers swinging axes & weaving baskets, to modern men carrying barbells & practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the truth remains: the soul does not grow despite the body... it grows through the body.

Takeaways:

• ​The Incarnation proclaims that the body is good... the very medium of salvation.
• ​Movement is not just about health metrics; it’s about integration of mind, body, & spirit.
• ​Voluntary suffering trains the will, reshaping us for communion with God.
• ​Ascetic labor is not punishment, it is freedom from the passions.
• ​Brotherhood & shared struggle break the isolation of modern life.
• ​John shares a mock functional movement protocol: a practical “rule of the body” to root training in Orthodox anthropology.

Soundbytes:

• ​“The soul doesn’t grow despite the body, it grows through the body.”
• ​“Movement isn’t about achieving a physique. It’s about reclaiming the image of Christ.”
• ​“The world sees suffering as a glitch in the system. Christ sees it as a doorway.”
• ​“Embodiment is resistance in an age of disembodiment.”

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to the School of the Body

04:44 Suffering as a Path to Transformation

06:57 The Role of Asceticism in Spiritual Growth

08:35 Integration of Body, Mind, and Spirit

10:36 The Connection Between Movement and Suffering

11:25 Embracing Suffering for Spiritual Growth

13:24 The Role of Community in Suffering

21:32 The Modern Disembodiment Crisis

24:28 Embodiment as Resistance

28:30 The Power of Brotherhood in Struggle

37:38 Practical Movement Protocols for Spiritual Growth

46:56 Closing Thoughts on the Protocol & Looking Ahead

52:06 Outro

Functional Movement for Orthodox Christians PDF: Get Yours Here

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In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & John welcome Fr. Zechariah Lynch to close out a four-part arc on the future of man. Together, they explore the rising ideology of transhumanism, the cult of fitness, AI-driven medicine, & how these movements represent not mere “progress,” but a new worldview that wages war on the Incarnation itself.

The conversation dives into wearables, implants, predictive diagnostics, & the seductive promises of algorithmic salvation. Against these false gospels, the Fathers point us back to the truth: man is dust, yet called to glory in Christ. True healing comes not from digitizing ourselves, but from living sacramentally in the Body of Christ.

Takeaways:

• The future of medicine intertwines with spirituality.
• Embodiment is essential in a disembodied age.
• Transhumanism challenges traditional beliefs about the body.
• Suffering can lead to spiritual growth & understanding.
• Technology can both connect & isolate us.
• Ascetic practices enhance physical & spiritual discipline.
• Community is vital for authentic human relationships.
• Convenience can lead to loss of freedom & control.
• Hope & healing are found in Christ.
• Faith is an incarnational reality that transforms lives.
• Don't do Yoga!

Sound Bytes:

• “The war is on the Incarnation, on the idea that God became man, that flesh matters, that our healing comes not through self-optimization, but through the Cross.”

• “They’ll kill us by convenience. They’ll enslave us for our desire for convenience. That’s why we need to do really human things: read books, break bread, touch grass.”

• “You are not a program. You are a person made for communion, not control.”

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 Recap of The 4-Part Masculinity & Transhumanism Arc

04:08 Introduction to Fr. Zechariah Lynch & His Orthodox Journey

05:22 Transhumanist Anthropology

08:11 Longevity at Any Cost

10:05 The Spiritual Implications of Health Tracking

12:10 On the Existence of Vestigial Organs

15:14 The Search for Meaning in a Data-Driven World

19:05 Biometrics & Big Brother

20:31 Addressing the True Root of Sickness

24:23 Discipline & the Ascetic Life

25:04 Balancing the Extremes of Fitness

34:40 Can Yoga Be Christianified?

38:05 The Singularity Vs. the Body as a Gift

43:44 The Importance of the Theotokos in the Incarnation

51:02 Advice for Not Being Seduced by Simulated Reality

55:11 The Digital Gulag

58:03 The Intersection of BigData & BigHealth

01:00:37 Do Not Let Anything Deprive You of Hope

01:01:51 Find Fr. Zechariah on InklessPen.Blog or Substack

01:02:31 Kettlebells & Deadlifting in a Cassock

01:04:12 Closing Thoughts & Looking Forward to our 2-Part Body Arc

01:06:23 Outro

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In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & John explore the intersection of AI, medicine, and Orthodox theology.

They discuss the ethical implications of AI in healthcare, the allure of transhumanism, & the importance of community & communion in true healing.

The conversation emphasizes the need for a return to the Orthodox understanding of the person, which transcends mere data & optimization, advocating for a holistic approach to health that includes spiritual dimensions.

Sound Bites:

"Transhumanism seeks perfection without God."

"True healing is found in the Orthodox tradition."

"Fear of death drives the transhumanist agenda."

Takeaways:

• AI is transforming medicine, but raises ethical concerns.
• The post-human gospel offers a false promise of immortality.
• Transhumanism seeks perfection without God.
• True healing is found in the Orthodox tradition.
• Digital health tools can lead to a new form of idolatry.
• The Orthodox Church teaches the importance of communion & community.
• Modern medicine often prioritizes data over the person.
• Theosis is the ultimate goal of Orthodox healing.
• Fear of death drives the transhumanist agenda.
• Real healing involves surrendering to God, not optimizing oneself.

Chapters:

00:00 The Gospel According to the Algorithm

06:37 The Rise of AI in Medicine

13:30 Bioethics Without Christ Through the Lifecycle

16:35 Transhumanism & the Promise of Immortality

20:22 Tin Foil & Apple Symbolism

21:39 Transhumanism & the Fear of Death

22:20 The Institutionalization of Thanatophobia

25:20 Embracing Freedom from Fear Through the Church

26:51 Digital Asceticism & Health Tracking

29:37 Continuous Glucose Monitors are NOT Repentance

34:20 The Parody of Sainthood in Modernity

39:00 Reclaiming Real Sacraments

41:53 The True Nature of Humanity

44:20 Closing Thoughts & Looking Ahead

45:41 Outro

Support the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: ⁠⁠coff.ee/OrthodoxHealth⁠⁠Work with Dr. Mike: ⁠⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠⁠Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠⁠ ⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠⁠

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & John discuss the crisis of masculinity in modern society, exploring themes of disembodiment, the spiritual roots of masculinity, & the importance of reclaiming the body as a tool for virtue & sacrifice.

They emphasize the need for practical steps to embody masculinity, the significance of brotherhood, & the role of fatherhood in protecting & providing for families.

The conversation culminates in a call to action for men to re-engage in their physical & spiritual lives, reclaim their identity, & resist the passive tendencies of modern culture.

Takeaways:

• Masculinity is in crisis at multiple levels.
• Modern men are detaching from their bodies & reality.
• The body is essential for discipline and virtue.
• Disembodiment is a spiritual issue, not just a lifestyle choice.
• Real masculinity involves sacrifice & self-offering.
• Men need to reclaim their physicality & engage in real work.
• Brotherhood & community are vital for masculine formation.
• Practical steps include fasting, physical training, & prayer.
• Fatherhood involves protection & spiritual leadership.
• The modern world promotes passivity & disembodiment, which must be resisted.

Sound Bites:

"You need to have a daily embodied rule."

"This is war & you need a plan."

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to Masculinity & Disembodiment

04:45 The Crisis of Modern Masculinity

07:25 Synthetic Masculinity & Transhumanism

09:38 The Role of Suffering in Masculinity

12:25 The Importance of the Body & Spirituality

15:11 Addressing Masculinity at the Root

17:41 Retaking the Arena

20:41 The Hero's Journey & The Gamification of Man

22:59 Building Brotherhood & Community Through the Cross

27:00 Practical Steps for Embodied Masculinity

29:49 Step 1: Fast

30:33 Step 2: Prostrate

32:21 Step 3: Build Something

35:06 Step 4: Take Risks

36:30 Establishing Daily Routines to Regain Masculinity

39:31 The Role of Fatherhood & Protection

44:20 Christ as the Only Way to True Manhood

48:43 Two Daily Disciplines to Start Your Day

50:23 Building Brotherhood & Community Through the Cross

54:00 Closing Thoughts

57:13 Outro

Support the Show with a One-Time or Recurring donation: ⁠coff.ee/OrthodoxHealth⁠Work with Dr. Mike: ⁠https://www.OrthodoxHealth.com⁠Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: ⁠https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/book⁠Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠⁠ https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian (sans John) is joined by Orthodox catechumen, registered dietitian, & fitness specialist Gavin McCort, RDN, LDN to discuss the multifaceted crisis in men's health, exploring the decline in testosterone levels, the impact of social & environmental factors, & the importance of spirituality & community.

They emphasize the need for men to reconnect with their purpose, the role of fasting & nutrition in health, & the significance of building a strong physical & spiritual foundation.

The conversation highlights the interplay between mental, physical, & spiritual well-being, advocating for a holistic approach to health that includes ascetic practices & community support.

Takeaways:

• Men are experiencing a crisis in health, particularly with declining testosterone levels.
• Social & environmental factors, including diet & lifestyle, contribute to men's health issues.
• Spirituality plays a crucial role in men's health & identity.
• Community & brotherhood are essential for men's mental & emotional well-being.
• Fasting & nutrition are vital components of physical health.
• Stress & sleep are interconnected & affect testosterone production.
• Asceticism & discipline are important for building a healthy body, soul, & spirit.
• Finding purpose in life is key to overall health & motivation.
• Men often feel isolated & disconnected from their peers.
• Building a healthy temple involves treating the body with respect & care.

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to Men's Health Crisis

06:07 Exploring Testosterone Decline & Its Causes

06:59 Male Isolation & Lack of Masculine Role Models

07:53 Spiritual Decline & the Loss of Masculinity

08:48 The Role of Diet in Men's Health

10:52 Quick Sidebar for a Fast-Friendly "Mayo" Recipe

11:31 Mental & Spiritual Stagnation in Men

14:41 The Physiology of Strength & Resistance Training

16:27 Should I Be Taking Peptides?

17:38 The Debate on Artificial Sweeteners & Fermented Drinks

18:17 Understanding GLP-1 & GLP-3 Peptides

20:36 The Interplay of Testosterone, Stress, & Sleep

22:16 The Importance of Silence & Prayer

25:44 Fasting, Physical Discipline, & Spiritual Warfare

28:56 On The Origin & Mission of Temple Builder Fitness

33:47 The Body as a Temple: A Holistic Approach

36:43 Millennial Man Screams at the Clouds

38:35 The Role of Fatherhood & Brotherhood

42:41 Circles of Accountability in Life

44:01 Foundational Health Tips for Men

50:48 Supplements to Support Blood Flow & Heal Damage From Mandatory Medical Procedures

51:47 Nutrition & Fasting for Men's Health

53:58 Gavin's Favorite Male Saint for Strength & Virtue

54:30 Gavin's Favorite Post-Training Meal (In Fast & Out of Fast)

56:01 Finding Purpose in Health & Life

56:47 Where Can You Find Gavin?

01:00:41 Outro

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In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the intersection of Orthodox Christianity & herbal medicine, emphasizing the importance of discernment in using natural remedies.

They discuss the historical context of herbal practices within the Orthodox tradition, the dangers of New Age ideologies, & the philosophical roots that contribute to confusion in modern herbalism.

Additionally, practical guidelines are given for reclaiming herbalism in a way that aligns with Orthodox beliefs, advocating for a humble & prayerful approach to healing.

Takeaways

Takeaways

• Herbal medicine is an integral part of Orthodox tradition.
• Discernment is crucial when engaging with herbal practices.
• The church does not oppose the use of herbs, but warns against idolatry.
• New Age practices often corrupt the original intent of herbalism.
• Healing should be approached as a gift from God, not a tool for self-deification.
• The influence of Gnosticism has led to confusion in modern herbalism.
• Orthodox Christians should reclaim herbalism within a sacramental framework.
• Prayer and humility are essential in the use of herbs.
• Consulting with spiritual elders is important for guidance in herbal practices.
• Repentance is necessary for those who have engaged with occult herbalism.

Chapters

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to Herbal Medicine & Orthodoxy

02:24 The Role of Herbs in Orthodox Tradition

04:09 Discernment in Herbal Practices

06:34 Scriptural Foundations for Herbal Healing

08:48 The Church Fathers & Herbal Knowledge

11:12 The Dangers of New Age Herbalism

13:26 Identifying Spiritual Deception in Herbalism

14:57 The Intersection of Herbs & Occult Practices

20:39 Hidden in Plain Sight

23:14 What if I Have Participated in These "Wellness" Practices?

24:18 Pharmakeia: Understanding the Biblical Context

26:57 Rudolf Steiner & the Mystical Approach to Healing

32:09 Orthodoxy Vs. Gnostic Syncretism

36:08 "But, What About Homeopathy?"

38:20 Reclaiming Herbalism: An Orthodox Perspective

46:23 Closing Thoughts & Looking Forward to the Next Episode Arc

47:42 Outro

Hexaemeron with On the Making of Man – St. Basil of the Great & St. Gregory of Nyssa (contains Amazon affiliate link)

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Pre-Order Orthodoxy & The Medicine of the Future: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/bookIntro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John delve into the complex world of Anthroposophy, its founder Rudolf Steiner, & the implications of his teachings on health & healing.

They explore the intersections of Anthroposophy with terrain theory, contrasting it with Orthodox Christian views on healing, which emphasize the unity of body, soul, & spirit, repentance, & the sacramental life.

The discussion highlights the importance of discerning the spiritual roots of health practices & the necessity of grounding healing in the teachings of the Orthodox Church.

Takeaways

• ​Anthroposophy is rooted in spiritual systems that diverge from Orthodox teachings.
• ​Steiner's view of illness emphasizes spiritual imbalance rather than sin.
• ​Orthodox healing is sacramental & communal, not esoteric or individualistic.
• ​True healing involves repentance & humility before God.
• ​Natural remedies can be beneficial, but must be rooted in faith.
• ​The body, soul, & spirit are interconnected in Orthodox understanding.
• ​Healing is a journey that includes suffering and hope in Christ.
• ​Discernment is crucial when engaging with alternative health practices.
• ​The teachings of the Church provide a foundation for true healing.
• ​The cross of Christ is central to understanding healing in Orthodoxy.

Chapters

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to Anthroposophy

03:05 Rudolf Steiner: The Man & His Influence

05:43 Steiner's Spiritual Framework & Christology

09:34 Anthroposophy's Impact on Modern Health & Society

11:29 Terrain Theory vs. Germ Theory

20:03 Understanding Steiner's Four Bodies Anthropology

23:45 Logos Spermaticos & The Seeds of Truth

28:34 Orthodox Understanding of Healing

32:20 Theosophy & Its Influences

36:55 A New Perspective on "Reincarnation"

41:02 Theosophy's Legacy in Modern Society

42:20 Orthodox Healing vs. Esoteric Practices

46:38 Sacraments & Humility for True Healing

48:29 Natural Remedies & Orthodox Practices

50:29 Practical Steps for Orthodox in Navigating Alternative Health

52:49 Outro

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Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John are joined by Fr. Jonathan Ivanoff to explore the vital role of community in healing within the Orthodox Church.

They discuss the Church as a spiritual hospital, the importance of understanding healing beyond the physical, & the communal aspect of salvation. The conversation delves into the tools for spiritual healing, the significance of spiritual gifts, and the dynamics of parish life, including the challenges of fragmentation & the importance of welcoming newcomers.

Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that worship is about giving back to God & being part of a community that supports each other in their spiritual journeys.
Takeaways

• Healing happens in community, not in isolation.
• The Church serves as a hospital for the soul.
• Spiritual healing encompasses physical, mental, & emotional aspects.
• Community plays a crucial role in individual healing.
• Worship is about giving everything to God, not receiving.
• Spiritual gifts are essential for parish life & community building.
• Cliques can hinder the welcoming nature of a parish.
• Every member of the church has a unique role to play.
• Confession & spiritual practices are vital for healing.
• True freedom is found in serving God, not in sin.

Sound Bites

• "The parish is a hospital for the soul."
• "We are saved in community."
• "We are slaves to God."
• "The Church is the Israel of God"
• "(Yoga) absolutely is not, cannot, and will never be (compatible with Christianity)."

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 Introduction to The Importance of Community in Healing

03:22 A Brief Discussion of Fr. Jonathan Ivanoff's Journey

06:35 Understanding the Church as a Spiritual Hospital

08:53 The Secular Vs. The Orthodox Mindset Towards Healing

11:42 The Holistic Approach to Healing

17:50 The Role of the Parish in Spiritual Health

22:25 Community as an Enactment of the Image of God

25:42 Tools for Healing in the Orthodox Tradition

29:52 The Essence of Confession

31:51 Understanding Sin and Self-Esteem

34:11 Freedom from Sin vs. License

37:38 Community & Loneliness in Parish Life

43:37 Discovering Spiritual Gifts

46:47 The Saints as Role Models for Your Own Spiritual Gifts

54:37 Shameless Transfigured Life Podcast Plug

55:39 Can Yoga Ever Be Made Christian?

56:58 Worship: Giving vs. Receiving

01:01:11 Outro

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Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠⁠

Check out Fr. Jonathan over at The Transfigured Life Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheTransfiguredLife

In this episode of the Orthodox Health Podcast, Dr. Michael Christian & co-host John explore the deep-rooted issues of modern health & spirituality through the lens of Orthodox Christianity.

They discuss the importance of addressing the root causes of sickness, both physically & spiritually, & how modern medicine often fails to do so.

The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness, self-examination, & the tools provided by Orthodoxy, such as fasting, confession, & prayer, to heal & restore balance in life.

They also highlight the significance of liturgical life & reconnecting with creation as essential components of true well-being.

Takeaways:

• Modern health paradigms are rooted in materialism.
• Orthodox Christianity offers tools for true healing.
• Rootlessness is a profound sickness of our time.
• Awareness is the first step to healing.
• Functional medicine seeks to restore design, not just optimize dysfunction.
• Fasting & confession are essential for spiritual & physical health.
• The church provides a rhythm for life that aids healing.
• We must identify & uproot false ideologies in our lives.
• Engaging with creation is vital for holistic health.
• Healing is about becoming fertile ground for grace.

Chapters:

00:00 Opener

01:30 The Sickness of Modern Civilization

03:00 Identifying Root Sicknesses

06:42 Modern Medicine & Pharmaceutical Whack-a-Mole

08:17 Why Choose Functional Medicine?

09:48 Practical Case Study

11:46 Reclaiming True Healing

13:32 Cutting Down the Trees of Ideology

16:54 The Power of Self-Examination

21:27 Tools for Uprooting Sickness

22:35 First Tool: Fasting

23:45 Second Tool: Confession

25:15 Third Tool: Prayer

27:59 Fourth Tool: Liturgical Participation

29:55 Fifth Tool: Return to Nature

32:20 Planting Seeds of Faith

34:33 The Church as a Healing Sanctuary

36:25 Living Sacramentally for Transformation

39:05 Reclaiming the Ancient Path

42:38 Outro

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Intro & Outro Music: St. John of Chicago Orthodox Church Choir (Arkansas) - Please support their building fund by buying the whole album here:⁠https://stjohnorthodoxchurch.bandcamp.com/album/come-ye-faithful-building-fundraiser⁠