St. Paul American Coptic Orthodox Church of Houston

Fr. Matthias Shehad examines the warnings about false prophets and teachings described in Matthew 24, emphasizing the end times' challenges for believers. He explains how false prophets use signs and wonders to deceive many, including the elect, and highlights the importance of discernment grounded in Scripture. Fr. Matthias outlines key characteristics of a true prophet: their words come to pass,...

Sandra Mathoslah, PharmD, explores the connection between fasting, nutrition, and spirituality in this seminar focused on nourishing the body to support the soul. Sandra emphasizes the importance of whole, unprocessed foods during fasting, highlighting the roles of plants, protein, and fats in a balanced diet. She discusses practical swaps for fasting meals, such as replacing animal protein with l...

In this Bible study on 2nd Peter 3, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the themes of the second coming of Christ, the warnings about false teachers, and the importance of being prepared for the day of judgment. He emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan from the prophets through the apostles and the need for believers to remain vigilant amidst doubts about Christ’s return. Fr. Matthias explains that God...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the Gospel story of the sinful woman who anointed Christ’s feet and was forgiven, highlighting the contrast between her humble repentance and the self-righteous judgment of the Pharisee, Simon. He explains how Christ’s mercy is given to those who recognize their sins and come with sincere repentance, while those blinded by pride fail to receive forgiveness. Fr. Matthia...

In this Bible study, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 2nd Maccabees chapters 5 and 6, detailing the political turmoil and persecution faced by the Jews under Greek rule. He explains the betrayal within Israel that enabled Antiochus IV to attack and desecrate the Temple, highlighting the imposition of Greek culture and pagan practices on the Jewish people. Fr. Matthias examines the conflict for the hig...

Joe Costandy explores the challenges facing youth engagement in the Church and examines secular research on declining Christian affiliation among younger generations. He discusses factors such as youth feeling unwelcome, perceiving the Church as restrictive, and struggles with relevance and intellectual doubts. Joe highlights studies showing the strong influence of family religious conversations o...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores chapters 9 and 10 of Ecclesiastes, focusing on the themes of life’s uncertainties, human suffering, and divine justice. He highlights how both the righteous and the wicked face similar trials in this life, emphasizing the distinction between earthly experiences and eternal judgment after death. Fr. Matthias explains the concept of God's permissive will, the role of fre...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the concept of superficial faith, contrasting it with genuine faith as revealed in the scriptures. He discusses how the apostles’ initial belief in Christ’s words was seen by Jesus as shallow, lacking true commitment. Fr. Matthias addresses various forms of superficial faith, including faith untested by trials, faith based only on miracles or personal experiences, and...

In this fellowship meeting, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores Tobit chapters 3 and 4, focusing on Tobit's prayer of trust in God's justice and mercy amid suffering and blindness. Fr. Matthias discusses the importance of humility, self-examination, and recognizing that God's plans often extend beyond immediate circumstances. The talk highlights Tobit's compassion and intercession for his people, drawing...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning behind Christ’s words, "Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see," emphasizing the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies in Jesus’ coming. He discusses how the people of Christ’s time failed to value this moment, drawing parallels to how we often undervalue God's gifts today. Fr. Matthias highlights biblical examples such as Abraham’s choice for...

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the exploration of the Parable of the Sower, focusing on the seeds sown among thorns and on good ground. He explains how worldly cares, desires for wealth, physical pleasure, authority, and entertainment can choke spiritual growth, separating us from experiencing God’s presence. Fr. Matthias highlights the importance of recognizing these obstacles and their impact on...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores Christ’s prayer to the Father, emphasizing the Christian calling to live in the world without conforming to its ways. He explains the balance between being in the world and not of the world, highlighting the importance of living according to God’s word and resisting sinful influences. Drawing from scripture and the teachings of St. Cyril of Alexandria, Fr. Matthias dis...

Michael Sidrak discusses the concept of abiding in God, drawing mainly from His Holiness Pope Shenouda’s teachings. He explains that abiding means maintaining an uninterrupted, heart-to-heart connection with Christ and the Holy Trinity, which requires consistent faith, love, and obedience to God’s commandments. Michael explores biblical examples such as King Solomon, Israel in the wilderness, Sams...

In this Bible study, Gerges Gad explores the role of the Virgin St. Mary within the Coptic rites, emphasizing her unique position as the Theotokos or Mother of God. Gerges discusses the significance of the Virgin Mary fast, her appearance in daily prayers and hymns, and her veneration distinct from worship. He explains her depiction in icons, her place in liturgical practices such as the Agbaya pr...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores 2 Peter 1:9-2:22, emphasizing the call for Christians to pursue holiness and spiritual growth through virtues such as faith, perseverance, and love. He explains that genuine faith results in transformation and warns against a superficial Christianity that ignores sanctification. Fr. Matthias addresses the danger of false teachers who distort Scripture for personal gain...

Michael Sedrak explores what it means to glorify God through practical steps rooted in Scripture. He explains that glorifying God begins with doing good works with the right attitude and gratitude, emphasizing wholehearted effort done as if serving the Lord rather than people. Michael highlights the importance of relying on God’s help in all we do, reminding that without Him, our efforts are in va...

Fr. Matthias Shehad discusses the challenges and solutions for healing broken relationships. He examines common mistakes such as ignoring problems, blaming others, waiting for apologies, retaliating, and prematurely leaving relationships. Fr. Matthias emphasizes the importance of open communication, taking personal responsibility, and initiating reconciliation even without an apology. He explains...

Nagy Wassef discusses the use of visual illustrations and experiential learning in spiritual education and parenting within the church setting. He highlights the importance of catering to children’s different learning styles, emphasizing patience and guiding kids through hands-on experiences rather than rushing them. Nagy explains how icons, hymns, and readings serve as tools to engage children sp...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning of Ecclesiastes 3:1, emphasizing the concept of life's seasons and their divine purpose. He explains how understanding these seasons can help believers navigate both joyful and challenging times, highlighting lessons such as the importance of patience, planning, and spiritual growth. Fr. Matthias also addresses related biblical questions, including the sign...

In this St. Monica Parenting Meeting, Susan Wisa and Caroline Marcos discuss how to disciple children through apologetics amid today’s cultural challenges. Susan explains why parents are the first line of defense for their children’s faith and highlights the importance of building a strong foundation in biblical truth rather than addressing every cultural issue separately. She emphasizes encouragi...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the story of the rich young man who asked Jesus how to inherit eternal life, focusing on the challenge of detaching from riches. He explains that trusting in wealth can be a barrier to entering the kingdom of God, emphasizing that riches themselves are not condemned, but attachment to them is. Fr. Matthias identifies ten types of people who trust in riches, including t...

Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the meaning behind Christ’s declaration, "I am the bread of life," highlighting its significance beyond physical sustenance. He explains the distinction between the bread that satisfies the flesh and the spiritual bread that nourishes the soul, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between the spirit and the flesh. Fr. Matthias discusses the characteristics of this spiritua...

Fr. Mousa Saleh reflects on the story of Zacchaeus from the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing Jesus' mission to seek and save the lost. He explores Zacchaeus’ efforts to see Jesus despite his short stature and social stigma as a chief tax collector, illustrating the importance of the desire to encounter Christ. Fr. Mousa explains how Jesus’ willingness to dwell with sinners demonstrates His power to tra...

Fr. Matthias Shehad continues the exploration of the Book of Tobit, focusing on chapters 7 and 8. He explains the canonical status of Tobit in Orthodox tradition, its historical context during the Assyrian exile, and the righteous life of Tobit who buries the dead despite risk. The discussion covers Tobias’ journey with the Archangel Raphael, the story of Sarah and her struggle with a demon, and h...

In this sermon, Fr. Matthias Shehad explores the Parable of the Sower, focusing on two types of soil: the seed that falls by the wayside and the seed that falls on the rock. He explains how the wayside soil represents those who hear the Word of God but doubt His love, timing, ways, and power, leading to the word being taken away before it takes root. Fr. Matthias illustrates this with biblical exa...