Next Step #282: The Halloween Edition of the podcast on Armodoxy. In this episode - follow up to Glendale's restriction on free-speech - Fr. Vazken gets a call. All Saints Day and Halloween. Identity in a Global Community - delineating between ethnic and religious identity. Looking under the mask of our life and finding ourselves, looking under the mask of the church and finding Christ - the One who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. YWCA and KFC - what's the branding all about? Great Treats in...
Nov 01, 2013
Next Step #281: Fr. Vazken prepares for the annual walk against Domestic Violence through the streets of Glendale & Burbank. Hear his thoughts as organizations and political parties turn their heads from the menacing and ugly realities in the community. Next - a discussion with Gala Danilova, from Artsakh on a variety of life & death issues, violence & peace, the value of life and updating to Windows 8.1 and life beyond the iPhone. Candid & meaty discussions help make way for the...
Oct 24, 2013
Next Step #280: When Glendale (California) Attorney tells Fr. Vazken he can't use the name of Jesus Christ in a public forum it's more than an annoyance of political correctness. A look at the constitutional right and freedom to free speech, the separation of the church & state. In the spirit of Niebuhr's prayer - understand the difference between things we can change and those we can't. The 60's - the counter culture and the need for Sanctuary in the Body of Christ are all discussed. Song: ...
Oct 18, 2013
Next Step #279: Moving forward from the Bishop Synod, a look at matters of social doctrine. A review of "In His Shoes" as a philosophy and a natural solution/alternative to victim-based strategies of life. Holy Etchmiadzin's Department looking at Social Doctrine. Killing in 2013 - for baseball teams? Song by Norayr Kartashyan "Tzarastan" Bishop Bagrat Galusdanian Loyola Abortion Link Condoleezza Rice & Adam Schiff Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net Look for The Next Step on blubrr...
Oct 11, 2013
Next Step #278: The historic Bishop's Synod of the Armenian Church, took place behind closed doors as is the perogative of the overseers of the Church. Here's a follow-up to last weeks' look at the Synod, filled with frustrations for us looking-in, but also a wonderful opportunity to look at the Sacred Mission entrusted to us. "Yelp" and the opportunity to use technology to go beyond those closed-doors. The 140 characters and the concise nature of the Gospels. Prayer request for Abp. Mesrob Muta...
Oct 03, 2013
Next Step #277: A first look at the Bishop's Synod in Etchmiadzin, along with background info on the catholicoi at the dias. A special treat for listeners with a uncovered gift to celebrate Fr. Vazken's anniversary. The evolution and synthesis of Armenian and Orthodoxy toward Armodoxy, in this edition. To be continued... Song: "Life's a Long Song" by Jethro Tull Compass #7-SE (to claim "gift" press on the "Special Edition" tag) Bishop's Synod - Message of Catholicos Karekin II and Catholicos Ara...
Sep 26, 2013
Next Step #276: Developing on a sermon he gave about mythology and Light, Fr. Vazken separates the power of Christ from Old Testament mythology. He sets up an antenna to catch the sounds that transcend time and space. He challenges listeners to find Christ outside the normal bounds of the norm. Salvation is not tied into ethnicity. In this episode: The Holy Cross, Voyager outside the Solar System,and the Building of the Moscow Cathedral - the sins of Gregory, Dirtad and us. Holy Cross Sermon Mos...
Sep 19, 2013
Next Step #275: Fr. Vazken takes the listeners on a thought process regarding war and peace. It's absurd to believe that violence against violence will breed peace, but it's equally as absurd to believe that love and goodness against acts of violence can even survive. Here are some thoughts and a Christian answer to the evil that destroys hope. Also in this episode, Abp. Rowan Williams' thoughts on "persecution" and "growing up." Afterthoughts to the Avon Cancer Walk. Song: Nune's " Cka Kesi Nma...
Sep 13, 2013
Next Step #274: Lighting a candle is much better than cursing the darkness. Fr. Vazken looks at two darknesses - cancer (breast) and war (Syria) in this light. He follows the light from Jesus to us, and our responsibility to be beacons of peace and love. Rev. Martin Luther King's stand on Vietnam is used as inspiration for today. Song: Peaceful World by Lara Derbedrosian Compass - Anti War (#39) Team In Her Shoes Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com...
Sep 06, 2013
Next Step #273: 50 years after Rev. Dr. Martin Luther Kings Jr's "I have a Dream Speech," Fr. Vazken shares some thoughts and offers a challenge to dream of peace - bringing about peace without the use of violence. With the imminent threat of war in Syria, a candid look at our faith - do we really believe that we can overcome evil with love? Do we believe there are non-violent alternatives to threats of death and annihilation? Also a discussion of chickens and headless existence (in the context ...
Aug 30, 2013
Next Step #272: St. Mary's Assumption Feast was truly a 3M-er: Memorable, Mystical and Magical. Fr. Vazken reflects on the feast which included the blessing of the harvest. Linda Zadoian, owner of Madame Kubah (and of Compass fame) joins a candid discussion about blessings and goodness. A small bowl of rice and flavorful conversation add to a mix about faith. Also in the episode: Myth Busting - the truth about grapeblessing service beyond the Northern Hemisphere. Song: Krisdos ee Mech - New rele...
Aug 23, 2013
Next Step #271: Fr. Vazken starts this episode by an attempt at myth-busting grape-blessing with the help of old-Iraqis and the folks down-under. Where this podcast ends up is a true reflection of Armodoxy - taking the essence of the Holy Mother of God, St. Mary, and finding a verse of pop culture that focuses on the importance of Saints in our everyday life. Is this a redirection or dismissal of her virginity? You decide. But before you do, listen to the list of names ascribed to St. Mary, from...
Aug 16, 2013
Next Step #270: Discovering a missing element from the Nicene Creed. Is there more than the Father, Son, Holy Spirit and the Church? Listen in as Fr. Vazken finds the missing piece to the puzzle of Orthodoxy and Armodoxy. Balancing the roller-coasters of life - the cries and laughs - with a hug-proposal - how about a week long hug-fest? Beginning the 100th Anniversary Commemoration of the Genocide with some sanity. Also: In what language do you think? A look from the ghetto. Song: Khatchadour Av...
Aug 08, 2013
Next Step #269: A lost kiss finds its way to where it belongs. Join Fr. Vazken as mood swings and different life puzzles play into this podcast. A blast from Armenia and a stop at the orphanage for special need children. Armodoxy is the message of Armenian Orthodoxy and there's no better place to hear it. Pope Francis borrows a page from Armodoxy too. Song: John Bilezikjian "Art of the Oud" Fr. Vazken on Same Sex Marriage ( Act #10x ) Pope Francis and the Armodox position Produced by Suzie Shata...
Aug 01, 2013
Next Step #268: Starting off with "remarkable" comments by the Roman Pontiff, HH Pope Francis regarding the "flimsy structures" in the Church and buying humbler cars. The authority that comes from sincerity. Medications for dealing with pain - find a natural solution within the Christ. Keeping Faith during Genocide by using symbols and the Rosary to connect us with Mystery. Song: New Age Armenia by Artur Sedrakian & Albina Hambartzumian Pope Francis Comments: Buy Only "Humble" Cars Rwanda Bl...
Jul 26, 2013
Next Step #267: Back from the Holy Land, Fr. Vazken explains the Armodox understanding of chosenness and holiness, along with an explanation of evolutionary reality. No brain-checking in this one. The healing process is furthered and expanded and at the end there is peace. Song: Nina Nay Nay by Hosharian Brothers Sun Sash - www.Sunsash.blogspot.com Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com Now on Stitcher Radio! Play Now:...
Jul 19, 2013
Next Step #266: From Arizona - the "hair cut" dilemma (almost) - connecting dots with a River Runs through it. After analysis, doing it. The Transfiguration - Did you miss the point? You'll be surprised who else did! A mellow look at some difficult ideas. Song - "Noubar, Noubar" by Element Band Inside the Pomegranate Sun Sash - http://sunsash.blogspot.com/2013/07/sun-sash-late.html Armodoxy Blog: http://armodoxy.blogspot.com/ Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net Look for The Next Step o...
Jul 11, 2013
Next Step #265: Fourth of July editions with freedom to explore possibilities. Answers to same sex commentary (from last week) - the dimensions of sin, while "plankated." Epostle at age 5. America and freedom. Song: America the Beautiful by Keb' Mo' Last week's: " Next Step #264 " Inside the Pomegranate with Anush Avejic Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com Now on Stitcher Radio!...
Jul 04, 2013
Next Step #264: The Supreme Court ruling on same sex marriages - put into perspective, in the context of Orthodoxy and the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Definitions and laws in the Armodox tradition. In this episode, Fr. Vazken discusses issues of homosexual marriages, unions, family, and the horrifying realities experienced through Datev Outreach, namely domestic violence and "unwanted" children. Also - a look at Armenia - as a pilgrim travels on the CYMA program in contrast to a young seminaria...
Jun 28, 2013
Next Step #263 : The perennial question and concern for the youth is explored in view of the Millennials, technology and human search for meaning. Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant look for youth outside of the reality of life, and of course, will never find it outside. Youth are closer than we may realize - just need to look in the right place. Take a Next Step in this direction. Anush's "Inside the Pomegranate" Blog launches in a new format as an audio blog. The premiere episode is included i...
Jun 20, 2013
Next Step #262: The 5th Anniversary Edition - Looking inward at the Next Step and the phenomenon of an "open" Church where ideas are expressed and explored. Commencement at the Graduation. Morning Evangelists peddling filtered water and more. SUN CEO McNealy told us over a decade ago to "Get over it." So why are we still concerned about privacy? And what about an All knowing God? Message to the Graduates Anush's Pomegranate - " Not all who wander are lost " Song: "Gakavik" by Gor Mkhitarian on t...
Jun 14, 2013
Next Step #261: The symbiotic relationship between man and woman, Church and Christ are revealed during a Glendale wedding. Listen in as Fr. Vazken shares a story within a story. The tragedy of not forgiving and not moving forward - it effects more than you might imagine. Prayers for the graduate coming up. Song: Sarkis Kazaryan, Rachmaninoff Anush's Pomegranate Seed: " What's Hair Got to Do with It? " Produced by Suzie Shatarevyan for epostle.net Look for The Next Step on blubrry.com Now on Sti...
Jun 07, 2013
Next Step #260: Personalized Coke and hate speech on Facebook - protests and financial withholding bring about change in the market, and why not the Church? Foster families and children - an epidemic in the works. Datev Outreach and the "Godparent" oath of faith, hope and love. Song: " Spirit in the Dark " Aretha Franklin with Get Well wishes Anush's Pomegrante Seeds: Lessons From Vegas Reference Articles: Companies Pull Facebook Ads Over Violent Content Personalized Coca-Colas, But Not If Your ...
May 30, 2013
Next Step #259: Spinning in our favor: Discovering the Acts of God in Oklahoma and elsewhere on the planet. Unraveling the Mysteries of the Holy Spirit, dispelling the "chosen" myth and "blasphemy against the Spirit." When an atheist looks up, does s/he see the moon? what else? Pope Francis has his take on atheists this week. Lessons from the watering truck at the rest stop. Song: "Heavenly Sunday" by Gor Mkhitarian Anush's Pomegranate Seeds: " Wanting More " Salvation Army Tornado Assistance Mo...
May 24, 2013
Next Step #258: From a broken telescope to a broken heart, it's a matter of perspective. Out there in the universe is something so complex that it demands mapping like the Human Genome Project. From thought, to feelings, to emotions to the soul, this podcast explores vast territory. The Holy Spirit and Pentecost - the beginning of something great. Angelina Jolie, President Obama, and Michio Kaku, St. Nersess, and Bill Gates - they all make us proud to be a Windows based operation! Song: " Love "...
May 17, 2013
Next Step #257: Psychic phenomena - getting it wrong with the 3 kidnapped girls. Taking away hope. It can happen by reading Armenian coffee cups. Reader's Digest wants to tell us about the top 100 trusted people, revealing more about themselves and their audience. Celebrating the phenomenon of the Youth Ministries' Center, with the King of Bahrain. Anush's Pomegranate Seeds - Why I walk Donate to Fr. Vazken's Walk Against Breast Cancer Song: Vijag by Zulal (live version) 10th Anniversary story P...
May 10, 2013
Next Step #256: The Latino Reformation (Time Magazine) and lessons for Orthodoxy. The ethnic experience - when a minority is the majority-minority, issues of inferiority surface in many ways. Young students (UCSB-ASA) and politics as usual - when they quote MLK and Gandhi without remembering Jesus, a part of the message is lost. Editing: making the Church relevant. Anush's Pomegrante Seeds: The Hummingbird Feeder Song: Gospel Harmonettes " Peace in the Valley " Time Magazine - The Latino Reforma...
May 03, 2013
Next Step #255: Walking through 6 cities* to the Armenian Genocide Martyrs' Monument - It's a walk "In His Shoes" - It's a change of perspective. Keeping identity in the aftermath of Genocide. The scorecard on the "Combined" Divine Liturgy - Diocese, Prelacy, Protestants and Catholics - who's who and what's what? Was this Liturgy a spiritual awakening? Or another political ploy to get the "troops" in line? Fr. Vazken gives his perspective. The "God Generation" - they came after the Genocide. A b...
Apr 25, 2013
Next Step #254: Finding God in the chaos. Fr. Vazken unravels the events of the week, which included the worst of the worst - domestic violence, terrorism and Genocide - and even finds God as the antithesis of chaos. Don't be afraid to point him out, he says. Datev Outreach, the Boston Marathon bombing, and the screening of Bared Maronian's "Orphans of the Genocide" are woven together in this interesting journey from chaos to order. It is a mystery and it is deep. Anush's Inside the Pomegrante -...
Apr 19, 2013
Next Step #253: Returning from a lively conversation with Stepan Partamian at GCC, Fr. Vazken reflects on Christianity today, as applied in society. Ethnic identity via the church? Breaking the stereotypes of the Church and Christianity. More topics: The cornerstone of Armodoxy is to look beyond Biblical mythology. Talking about birth control to a people who have experienced Genocide? Case in point: Rwanda. Non violent resistance and disciplining the masses. Case in point: Armenia. The different...
Apr 12, 2013
