Pray Tell

Is the Anglican Church still relevant in 2026?

In this episode, we explore what it means to live out one's Christian faith daily and nurture a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We discuss how Anglicanism emphasizes these core beliefs, clarifying common misconceptions. This conversation aims to deepen understanding for those curious about Christianity and the Episcopal tradition. 🙏

// CHAPTERS //

00:00 Do We Just Believe Anything?

01:12 Why Be Anglican in 2025?

05:46 When Questions Are Not Welcome

10:18 The Three Legged Stool

18:42 Scripture and Cultural Bias

27:35 The Truth about Deconstruction

36:58 Power, Politics, and Jesus

45:14 A Church for the Burnt Out

53:02 Mystery and Control

59:21 Final Invitation

// JOIN US //

We would love to see you on Sunday at 11am.  YOU are welcome here.

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC V2S 5R2

Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbyanglican/profilecard/?igsh=OHp3eTJmZHJxcTZj

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada

https://www.anglican.ca/

Listen to the Podcast

YouTube: @praytellthepod

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting. But it does not have to be this way.

Rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe that structure creates freedom. Scripture, tradition, and thoughtful reflection are not barriers to faith but tools that help us grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus.

No matter where you are in your spiritual journey, you are welcome here.

Are Anglicans Christian?

Are Anglicans Christian? It’s a question many people quietly wonder and some openly ask.

In this episode of Pray Tell, Trevor and Al explore where that confusion comes from and how Anglican worship proclaims the gospel week after week through Scripture, creeds, sacraments, and liturgy rather than relying only on the sermon. They talk about what it means to be Christian at its core, why the early church developed creeds, and how Anglicanism fits within the wider Christian story.

Whether you are new to Christianity, coming from an evangelical background, or simply curious about Anglican worship, this conversation makes space for honest questions, deeper understanding, and a renewed sense of wonder.

Pray Tell is a podcast from St. Matthew Anglican Church in Abbotsford, BC.

Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church
https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Is it okay to question and doubt your faith in the Anglican Church? Welcome back to Pray Tell!! In this episode, Trevor Smale and our new co-host Al Carson sit down to discuss their personal journeys to the Anglican Church and the unique aspects that keep them grounded in this tradition. They delve into the historical depth of Anglicanism, its openness to questions and struggles, and the central role of the Eucharist in worship. The explore their diverse church backgrounds, the significance of liturgy, and why they believe the Anglican Church is a welcoming and safe space for all. Stay tuned for bi-weekly episodes, and be sure to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts and questions! We would love to hear from you.// CHAPTERS //00:00 Coming up...00:33 Welcome Back! And introducing Al Carson05:08 Personal Stories: How we came to the Anglican Church15:45 The Value of Anglicanism26:42 Wrapping Up.// JOIN US! //WE would love to see you on Sunday at 11am! Our address is...2010 Guilford DriveAbbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2You are welcome here.👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbyanglican/profilecard/?igsh=OHp3eTJmZHJxcTZjFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglicanAnglican Church of Canada Website:https://www.anglican.ca/🎤 Listen to the Podcast:YouTube: @praytellthepod Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting. But it doesn't have to be this way.As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God. Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.

What are the 12 days of Christmas and what do they mean?  Why do we celebrate these days in the Anglican Church?  Spoiler: It’s more than just a song! 

In this episode of  @praytellthepod  Tyler and Trevor from St. Matthew's Anglican Church ( @abbyanglican  ) explore the rich traditions and feast days that make up this season—from Christmas Day to Epiphany on January 6th.

🎙️ They share childhood memories, modern Anglican practices, and fascinating insights into the liturgical calendar. Plus, they review  Granville Island’s Winter Ale 🍺

Discover how historical traditions meet modern festivities and get the inside scoop on the deeper meaning behind the beloved Christmas carol.

📅 Don’t miss this lively, thoughtful, and festive episode!

💬 Tell us your favorite part of the 12 Days of Christmas!

And if you're in Abbotsford, we would love to see you on Sunday at 11am!  Our address is...

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2

Singles, families, retirees and EVERYONE else neglected or rejected by mainline churches - YOU are welcome here.

// CHAPTERS //

00:00 What's with 12 Days?

00:37 Welcome & Introducing 12 Days of Christmas

04:12 Personal Backgrounds

07:52 Lion's Winter Ale!

10:54 Celebrations During the 12 Days!

32:42 Why December 25?

42:27 Favourite Gift from the Song?

44:39 Wrapping Up!

👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbyanglican/profilecard/?igsh=OHp3eTJmZHJxcTZj

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada Website:

https://www.anglican.ca/

🎤  Listen to the Podcast:

YouTube: @praytellthepod 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting.  But it doesn't have to be this way.

As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God.  Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!

Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.

Jump into holiday nostalgia with mystical St. Nicholas, the Christmas Pickle, top 10 holiday movies and MUCH MORE!

Tyler and Trevor from St. Matthew Anglican Church in Abbotsford dive into the festive spirit of Christmas! This special episode of Pray Tell features a fun and nostalgic look at their top 10 Christmas movies, traditions, and favorite holiday foods. From the best Christmas episodes like Mr. Bean's classic antics to sharing unique traditions like the German Christmas pickle, this episode is full of holiday cheer - perfect for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit and learn more about how different traditions and memories shape the season.

Tune in for insightful discussions on the significance of patterns, the church calendar, and how to meaningfully observe Advent.

And if you're in Abbotsford, we would love to see you on Sunday at 11am!  Our address is...

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2

Singles, families, retirees and EVERYONE else neglected or rejected by mainline churches - YOU are welcome here.

// CHAPTERS //

00:00 Trevor's Holiday Specials

00:47 Listener Advisory

01:24 A Holiday Introduction!

03:53 Drinks

05:52 Saint Nicholas

08:09 Christmas Pickle

10:37 Holiday Food

13:27 Nostalgia

19:15 Christmas At Church

23:42 Top 10 Holiday Movies

38:06 Honorable Mentions

40:16 Wrapping Up!

👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbyanglican/profilecard/?igsh=OHp3eTJmZHJxcTZj

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada Website:

https://www.anglican.ca/

🎤  Listen to the Podcast:

YouTube: @praytellthepod 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting.  But it doesn't have to be this way.

As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God.  Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!

Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.

In this episode of the Pray Tell Podcast, Tyler and Trevor discuss how to prepare for Christmas 2024 by living into the season of Advent. 

Drawing from their experiences as Anglicans attending St. Matthew's in Abbotsford BC, they explore how Advent is the season of rest and fasting that prepares us for the celebration of Christmas. The duo also share practical ways to embrace the season in daily life, from tuning in to your local Anglican parish to intentionally slowing down in a busy culture. 

Tune in for insightful discussions on the significance of patterns, the church calendar, and how to meaningfully observe Advent.

And if you're in Abbotsford, we would love to see you on Sunday at 11am!  Our address is...

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2

Singles, families, retirees and EVERYONE else neglected or rejected by mainline churches - YOU are welcome here.

// CHAPTERS //

00:00 Kramer & Patterns

00:40 Introducing Advent

03:01 Soggy Bottom Coffee Stout

06:17 Overview of Advent

09:37 A Celtic Prayer

13:35 The Challenges of Living into the Season

22:15 Why Bother with Liturgical Patterns?

25:30 Advent Resources

30:50 Advent TV & Movies

36:02 Christmas Tree Controversy

38:58 The Reason for the Season

👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbyanglican/profilecard/?igsh=OHp3eTJmZHJxcTZj

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada Website:

https://www.anglican.ca/

🎤  Listen to the Podcast:

YouTube: @praytellthepod 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting.  But it doesn't have to be this way.

As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God.  Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!

Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.

Who Was Saint Matthew?

In this episode of Pray Tell, Tyler and Trevor from St. Matthew's Anglican Church in Abbotsford explore the life and significance of Saint Matthew, the patron saint of the parish. 

From a despised tax collector to a trusted disciple of Jesus, Saint Matthew's legacy can teach us important lessons today.  Besides the saint himself, Tyler and Trevor also chat about the unique aspects of Anglican tradition and share their personal experiences with saints. 

Join us for another enlightening and engaging conversation!

And if you're in Abbotsford, we would love to see you on Sunday at 11am!  Our address is...

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2

Singles, families, retirees and EVERYONE else neglected or rejected by mainline churches - YOU are welcome here.

// CHAPTERS //

00:00 "Bad Dude"

00:45 Welcome to Pray Tell

07:41 Perceptions of Saints

12:04 Historical Context and Authorship

19:50 The Reliability of Scripture & Personal Doubt

20:16 Depictions of Saint Matthew

22:55 Feast Days

28:39 What's the Point?

32:38 Favourite Saint

39:52 Wrapping Up

👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada Website:

https://www.anglican.ca/

🎤  Listen to the Podcast:

YouTube: @praytellthepod 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting.  But it doesn't have to be this way.

As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God.  Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!

Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.

What is liturgy and why does it matter in the Anglican church? (or does it?)

There's a new Anglican Priest in Abbotsford!  

We are delighted to introduce you to Father James Hwang, the new rector at St. Matthew Anglican Church.  James' journey began in Seoul, South Korea, where he was first compelled by the Franciscan order in the Roman Catholic Church.  After leaving the order, James came to Canada to pursue a religious education to become an Anglican Priest.  

In this candid sit-down, James shares his personal and professional background including his passion for pottery, sports, and home-cooked meals!  We also explore his vision for St. Matthew's as he joins our community to serve our city.

We hope you will join us in offering Father James a warm Parish welcome! 

We hope you enjoy the conversation, and if you have any questions for us or Father Hwang, please leave it in the comments below!

And, if you're in Abbotsford, we would love to see you on Sunday at 11am!  Our address is....

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2

Singles, families, retirees and EVERYONE else neglected or rejected by mainline churches - YOU are welcome here.

// CHAPTERS //

00:00 Introducing Father James Hwang

03:45 

👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada Website:

https://www.anglican.ca/

🎤  Listen to the Podcast:

YouTube: @praytellthepod 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting.  But it doesn't have to be this way.

As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God.  Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!

Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.

Ever wonder what is baptism for?  From infants to adults to even the un-catechized, different Christian denominations emphasize different things.  This episode offers an introduction to baptism from an Anglican perspective.

Welcome back to Pray Tell!  In this episode, your regular hosts, Trevor Smale and Tyler Evans, parishioners at St. Matthews Anglican Church in Abbotsford, are joined by special guest Dick Martin to explore the history, meaning and symbolic significance of baptism.  Dick is a lay minister with extensive experience in the Church of England. 

This conversation spans everything from the history of baptism, the concept of confirmation, the place of this rite of passage in an individuals's personal faith journey and much more!

We hope you enjoy the conversation, and if you have any further questions or topics you would like us to discuss in the future, please leave it in the comments below!

And, if you're in Abbotsford, we would love to see you on Sunday at 11am!  Our address is....

2010 Guilford Drive

Abbotsford, BC. V2S 5R2

Singles, families, retirees and EVERYONE else neglected or rejected by mainline churches - YOU are welcome here.

// CHAPTERS //

00:00:00 Teaser

00:00:37 Introductions

00:01:58 Today's Guest Dick Martin

00:05:35 Blood Orange Beer From Trading Post

00:06:52 Baptism History & Meaning

00:12:14 Infant Baptism

00:25:37 How Do We Understand Jesus' Baptism

00:33:12 The Role of Confirmation

00:41:56 Getting Re-Baptized?

00:44:14 Re-Dedication

00:47:55 Wrapping Up & Takeaways

👪 Learn more about St. Matthew Anglican Church on:

Website: https://www.abbotsfordanglican.ca/

Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abbyanglican

Anglican Church of Canada Website:

https://www.anglican.ca/

🎤  Listen to the Podcast:

YouTube: @praytellthepod 

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pray-tell/id1718881539

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50P2r7jPZoynx9uCLDWc4J?si=e0d227f7f8d44bdc

// ABOUT ST. MATTHEW //

St. Matthew Anglican Church is a small Parish located in Abbotsford, BC.

Far too many people have experienced Christianity as constricting.  But it doesn't have to be this way.

As a community rooted in the Anglican tradition, we believe church is all about exploring the grand mysteries of God.  Like everything else in life - whether it's architecture, carpentry, music, or even worship - we believe it's through structure that we find the freedom to experience more!

Recognizing that everyone has a unique and challenging journey, we want to be a safe, inclusive and welcoming community that embraces transformation while also maintaining the best that tradition has to offer.

No matter where you are on your spiritual journey and in your relationship with God, you are welcome here.