Next Step #162: Making a vacation a true opportunity for recreation is a Christian calling during summer and year-round. Here’s a chance to enjoy the best of God’s world without leaving home. Dizzy Gillespie hit the jazz note and you got a buzz, now try some “Armenian Blues” for that extra walk through Palu and now America. Islam in America – how far? Mormons and the Christian Church - beginning a conversation on the Next Step. Tweeting your way through college. Song (dedicated to Uncle Gill): “...
Jul 15, 2011
Next Step #161: Find the Miracles in your life by taking a look from a different vantage point. Beyond the thunder and lightning, here is a challenge to view miracles from the vantage point of God – it's more than the blind seeing and the paralyzed walking. It’s powerful. From his own personal health challenges, Fr. Vazken invites the listener to see the Power of Christ as in the healing process. From Preston Platform – a view of a son and his father, to a Catholic Church in Brussels – a group p...
Jul 07, 2011
Next Step #160: An Interview with Gregory Beylerian – Here is a dialogue that opens the heart and mind to the resonating meditative tone that leads the spiritual quest. In this candid conversation between artist Gregory Beylerian and Fr. Vazken the breathing is circular and the topics are flowing. From the duduk to “letting go,” from Kung Fu to iPhones, this conversation is about awareness and finding the outside parameters imposed by life. This focus takes you to a point where evolution and cre...
Jul 01, 2011
Next Step #159: The power that resides in each of us, is also part and fabric of the universe, it resides outside of us. Belief and faith means going beyond the ordinary and the expected. Armodoxy is the path that challenges us to find harmony within ourselves and without – seeking the impossible and resonating with the harmonics that otherwise don’t exist. Tapping into the Jesus principle of Resurrection. “Praying Solves all of my Problems.” – Pope Kirollos. The “loaded” prayer of Christ. Only ...
Jun 23, 2011
Next Step #158: The Fourth Anniversary of the Next Step is celebrated “Live at the Lounge” with an open microphone on Suzie, Ani and Ken. Fr. Vazken shares thoughts about technology and ministry in this special edition. Closing thoughts – Fr. Vazken gets personal with thoughts on thanksgiving, humility and true healing. "Ours is not to add days to life, but life to days." - Dr. M. Garabedian. This is a prelude to the “Next Steps” to come. Ani’s blog on Scrubs Magazine " Evangelizing the Digital ...
Jun 17, 2011
Next Step #157: Finishing off Year #3 of the Next Step – a look at the “pop theology” in Armodoxy. Twitter’s 140 characters opens an opportunity for articulation; God's Concert is orchestrated when He’s in charge; Patience. Geronimo Pratt passes – lessons from the Black Panther leader Armenios de Córdoba por Darfur: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSZAyul28VQ Music by Gor Mkhitarian "Or" - Purchase SPIRIT Album Ani's Graduation: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKlb0oinNnk Produced by Suzie Shatare...
Jun 09, 2011
Next Step #156: Forty days after Easter - it's the feast of Ascension (Hampartzoum). Drop the superstitions and get into gear – a look at Matthew 28:16-20 as a message for then and now. Fr. Vazken looks for inclusion in the 1933 King Kong tribe and the chorus of Anush Opera. Meanwhile – avoid those virgin martinis by taking the Christian Offensive and stopping the numbskulledness. Music " Miteh " by Shiraz https://www.facebook.com/shiraz.yeghiazarian “ Hele Hele ” by Richard Hagopian http://www....
Jun 03, 2011
Next Step #155: Three statements about God: From Harold Camping's destructive news of world’s end (5/21/2011), to Serj Tankian's criticism of organized religion (PTL/PTA) to Oprah's “Team” (and Jesus), Fr. Vazken explores the understanding of God and the Kingdom of Heaven in the context of Armenian Orthodoxy. Some comments after a pilgrimage to Yettem = Paradise is Heaven on Earth. No need to wait for future times - imagine Jesus as the LOVE equivalent today! Reject the absurdity of what is bein...
May 27, 2011
Next Step #154: The “healing” Gospel of the Armenian Church: Mark 11 is explored in the context of the rites of the Armenian Orthodox Church. (Explained: Mashdotz/Mayr & Hayr Mashdotz) Jesus gives a lesson of mind over matter and the ability to shift off of the physical plane. Mother Teresa is there to follow: “I know God will not give me anything I cannot handle. I just wish He didn’t trust me this much.” End of World predictions for this Saturday, May 21, are you (getting) prepared? Jehova...
May 20, 2011
Next Step #153: Christianity beyond the names; Fr. Vazken explores the excuses for covering our guilt as Christians as he looks at the Fast for Darfur; it’s implications and strength in commemorating atrocities. Picking on homosexuality: what Christians must remember before picking up the stone. Balancing good actions with humility. Watch out for Lucy in the Sky! Part 2 of Armodoxy - unravelling the central message of Resurrection. Story from Naseredin Hodja: http://armodoxy.blogspot.com/2011/05...
May 13, 2011
Next Step #152: From the desert floor broadcasting the message of Armodoxy. Part 1 of an exploration and unraveling of the Armenian Orthodox faith – what is the message under the institution. Will & Kate, Osama’s capture start a discussion of ethics and morals that will continue. Thomas doubted but also got an answer. This is a special edition which starts off a series of Questions in Faith. Music: “Have a Little Heart” by Melineh Kurdian Ani’s Bubbles: Sense of a Goose Produced by Suzie Sha...
May 05, 2011
Next Step #151 : Easter celebrations are over, Genocide commemorations have stopped, but the real work of In His Shoes continues in highlighting Resurrection over Crucifixion. Recap and commentary on the Fast for Darfur. Defining the Church as the Sacred Body of Christ, and the overwhelming power of national aspirations. And in the world… Prince William gets married, Obama proves he’s a citizen and Superman denounces his US Citizenship. Music by Steve Hampar Ani's Bubble - Angel Made Quilt. Prod...
Apr 29, 2011
Next Step #150: An Easter Special in complete Armodox Tradition. Life over death, love over hatred, light over darkness, good over evil, Govya Yerousaghem over Ee Verin. April 24 is transformed by the unfailing words of Rev. 21:4 - a day when there will be no more tears. The Power within us. In His Shoes at this junction. Putting on the sandles of Christ; Taking up Christ’s Cross OR Taking Christ up to the Cross? Join us for Easter Morning Sunrise Service: www.epostle.net/broadcast.html Ani's Bu...
Apr 22, 2011
Next Step #149: Preparing for the meeting of Light & Darkness – Easter and Armenian Genocide Commemoration – a year in the planning via In His Shoes . Jesus was open to the possibility of learning and the "working class hero" opens our minds. Church/Priest being accessible. Finding a weapon of choice – especially when weapons are the only means of salvation! Here is the Armodox answer to violence – peace is promised and also attainable. Borrowing from our children – what world are we leaving...
Apr 15, 2011
Next Step #148: Back from Phoenix through the Arizona/California desert, in time for the Sunday of Advent. Earthquakes, upheaval in the Middle East, Economy – what does it all mean? The “Signs of the Times?” A look at Scripture for answers – exploring Mark 13, Matthew 25 & Matthew 22. Whether you’re “Born Again” or waiting for the Rapture – you will be able to put together the pieces and find out the best way to wait / prepare for end times – A True Orthodox perspective – Armodoxy for us all...
Apr 08, 2011
Next Step #147: Cesar Chavez day: looking beyond the self and caring for the community. Armodoxy: Life of Activism; War & Peace - Making Faith the Weapon of Choice; Gabriel in Darfur at the refugee camps and the upcoming Fast for Darfur; Spiritual and emotional overload and anxiety. Welcome to the Brazilian listeners. Earthquakes and revolutions - Signs of the Times? Or selfish desires? Word: Li. Links: Stop Genocide Now – iAct & Gabriel ; Watch “ Greetings of Hope ” Music: Lilit Pipoyan...
Apr 01, 2011
Next Step #146: Updates on Darfur from Gabriel and the iAct team; Other solutions for Libya, are within our tradition of Armodoxy – dream of peace. Living beyond the sword; The quadruple dangers of Japan’s earthquake: fear joins in with the tsunami and nuclear radiation; Supermoon for the start of Spring; The Dishonest Steward teaches that this world is not to be discounted, but the tools of this world can provide for our spiritual welfare. More on the revolutions – it’s in our hands. iAct: www....
Mar 24, 2011
Next Step #145: This St. Patrick's Day, join us for some Armenian Scotch. Coming from Japan: earthquake, tsunami and nuclear meltdown, the worst is fear. Jesus’ words: “Do Not Fear” is a call during these anxiety filled times. Superman and God: who could have stopped the tsunami in Japan? Guest Maida Icliates , chairperson for Armenian Family Support Services is interviewed and she offers a blue print for social services through the Church. Faith meets action in this wonderful story of a communi...
Mar 18, 2011
Next Step #144: Reflections on the Gathering for Darfur – Gor Mkhitarian, Ara Dabandjian and Melineh Kurdian share their talent at the March 6 In His Shoes event. At the end of the day – the miracle is obvious: the focus has shifted and we’re on our way toward Easter. Lenten Journey : the files have been found! We have you covered through Lent – Emotionally, spiritually and physically. Ken shows off his new computer and tells of Clapton. “ Pwn2Own ” and hacking through Lent – stripping down to f...
Mar 10, 2011
Next Step #143: Vartanantz and a Hitchcockian twist to the old story. Teaching morality through MTV? Is Fox any better? Birthplaces: Romance to reality, they do change! First Amendment rights of abusers of the Christian name – the Supreme Court decides. Charlie Sheen and MTV – what happens to “throw-away babies”? Paregentan - the beginning of the Lenten season and what’s in store for the next few weeks. Do check out http://epostle.net Upcoming: This Sunday is the Awareness for Darfur Event at Gr...
Mar 04, 2011
Next Step #142: Prelude to the IHS Gathering for Darfur - recording artist Gor Mkhitarian drops in at the studio for an interview - music and humanities, it's all there. Then, a special in-studio session - "Or," "Hrashk" and the "Snow" has never been the same. Father Vazken explains the importance of the moment as Genocide in Darfur escalates in intensity. The victory of Resurrection is at the heart of all of our efforts. Gor Music: http://gormusic.com Purchase SPIRIT Album by Gor Mkhitarian Ani...
Feb 25, 2011
Next Step #141 : The Simpsons have the Blinky fish. The Chevy in Blythe has a Bobble-Head Jesus. Fr. Vazken’s office has some icons too – not too far off, once you get Shnorhali’s key. All icons point to Christ so long as the Shnorhali formula is in place. Armodoxy is an intelligent alternative to what’s being thrown out at you – and nothing that promotes love can be “appalling.” Wrapping up a Valentine's week with stories and song: Catholicos Karekin II builds traditions for newlyweds, but not ...
Feb 18, 2011
Next Step #140: After analysis there's only one step to take: the next step to action. Did you see Jesus in the Genocide refugee camps? Warning- Do not try this at home: the heathen practices of jumping the bonfires. Sayat Nova's adventures through St. Valentine's Day and the Presentation of the Lord (Diaruntarch). Peace - hard to pronounce, maybe harder to achieve. Or maybe not? Our call to answer war with peace, as Christians and as humans. Song: "Badkirkd dalamov kahsadz” by Nuné Yesayan http...
Feb 11, 2011
Next Step #139 : From the Sunshine in California to the Snow storms back East, this episode is an offering of bi-polar reconciliations: Death & Life; Dark & Light; Good & Bad; Evolution & Devolution; Debutante Balls & Genocide in Darfur. Fr. Vazken outlines the direction of the In His Shoes Ministries on this banner year, 2011 as the darkness meets the light on Easter Sunday. No sunshine, gas or electricity needed – this topic will heat you up. The dog of Midwinter says Sprin...
Feb 04, 2011
Next Step #138: Dr. Hratch Tchilingirian’s interview (Part 2 of 2) - discussing religion in general and the Armenian Church in particular. Topics include the Mission of the Armenian Church; How to accomplish the mission; Eastern (cf. Western) as the liberal form of Christianity; Spirituality vs. the Institutions; Relevancy in the Church; Customizing Religion to fit our lives; Complex world and the Simple message. Watch out Google, here’s a formula for advertising without paying for it. The Londo...
Jan 27, 2011
Next Step #137: Wrapping up the lessons from a weekend with Martin Luther King, Jr.; The Santa Barbara Sunrise: are we at the Pacific Ocean? Expansion plans for In His Shoes includes a kick in the shoes, from Easter April 24, to Syria, to Argentina and London; 50 Years after JFK’s “Ask Not…” Speech – we are heirs to the revolution; Can we really love those we don’t like? Interview with Hratch Tchilingirian, Ph.D. (Part 1) – a look at the “Window Years” – Analysis and Criticism from within the ch...
Jan 20, 2011
Next Step #136: The Feast of St. John the Forerunner, a revelatory day, when it all clicks and we arrive at Armodoxy. Declaring a Right to Revolution for the Church. Is Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness the goal of religion? Does it define the sacredness of the Church? Is it Unity with God for the Christian? The New Diocesan TV show, “In Step with Christ” and the “Hell” graphic. Shooting in Arizona – looking at the destruction of humanity and the answer to heal. Song: "Rain, Rain Go Away" b...
Jan 13, 2011
Next Step #135: It’s Theophany! The Revelation of Christ! Kickoff the New Year with some ponderings - What to think when the twelve-day countdown is over. Instead of partridges and lords a-leeping, cancer and death visits. Finding PEACE in the face of stress and difficulties. Fr. Vazken shares some personal stories from the Christmas week that point to Christmas miracles – ones of Biblical proportion! The prayer of blessing water – would you believe it provides the answer to some of life’s bigge...
Jan 07, 2011
Next Step #134: Can we learn from big business? How about a clearance sale for the soul? Clear your inventory of everything that’s not necessary to make room for the new models – including a move from faith to belief. Explore a recap of different sorts, as Fr. Vazken talks about walking in the shoes of others during this Christmas season as a prelude to the command to love. Moving from Faith to Belief and make love the victor in your life. Fr. Kourken at year 1 of passing. Insanity the Pelosi Wa...
Dec 30, 2010
