Orthodox Talks

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com Subscribe to the Orthodox Talks podcast: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml Many Orthodox Christians participate in the life of the Church, praying, fasting, confessing, communing, singing, etc. But how many of these people are genuinely seeking their salvation? The purpose of life on earth is the salvation of one’s soul. Although most people do not think about their salvation, it comes as a surprise when we encounter this in active participants in church life. The question arises: why does this occur? In this talk, Father Kosmas examines the danger of falling into an incorrect attitude toward the spiritual life. He explains how incorrect zeal in matters of faith, prayer, spiritual struggle, observing church rules and practices, converting others, etc., can be detrimental not only to our own spiritual lives, but also to those with whom we come into contact. The following questions are also discussed: why is there so little apparent difference between Orthodox and non-Orthodox today? Why is spiritual activity so difficult in our times? Can today’s Christians pray without ceasing? Is it wrong to be in love with a non-Christian? What are the signs of true love? Is it right to force someone to repent? How serious is adultery? Who is a true theologian? Do anathemas apply to those outside the Church? Do saints make mistakes, and even fall into pride? Who told Saint Anthony to mind his own business? Is compromising on spiritual matters ever permissible? Other points covered in this talk include: the dangerous effects of worldly distractions; the three main challenges facing Orthodox Christians; the benefit of close contact with monasteries; the devil’s attitude toward those who seek salvation; how preoccupation with the church canons can be dangerous; converting others through prayer; the proper understanding of the church canons; humility as an antidote to pride; how church teaching is not always black and white; how Rasputin’s example can be a warning to those returning to the Church with fervent repentance; fanaticism in the Church; and prophecies regarding Christians and the last times.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com (MP3 duration: 2hrs 30mins) The Church’s teachings regarding death and the afterlife are something everyone should know. Simple observation, however, demonstrates that most people, including Orthodox Christians, are not familiar with these essential truths. Since we will all face death, the question naturally arises: why is there such ignorance, neglect and fear in a matter concerning the eternal salvation of our souls? God desires that all come to the knowledge of the truth and thereby attain salvation. The desire of the demons, however, is to keep us ignorant in order to prevent our salvation, for our salvation is hateful and agonizing to them. In this talk, Father Kosmas uses many excellent examples to explain the teachings of the Orthodox Church on the topic of death and dying. After listening to this talk, one will understand that the Church offers blessed eternal life to the souls who have reposed in the hope of God’s mercy and love. Questions discussed include: should Christians fear death? Is all contact with the spiritual world evil? Can the reposed make contact with the living? Can good deeds help us after death? Why do some people die a violent death? Why don’t some bodies decompose? Can the Church release sinners from hell? What are the toll-houses? How can helping the dead help us? Other points included in this talk are: ecumenism beyond the grave; the difference between natural, divine, and demonic apparitions and dreams; the importance of our Guardian Angel before and after death; unconfessed sins after death; the importance of commemorating the dead; the pain of the soul at the hour of death; the Church’s prayers before and after the departure of the soul; the appearance of demons at the time of death; and reciting the Creed at the time of death.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com Saint Xenia the Fool-for-Christ is one of the best-known Russian saints. Because of her many miracles, her popularity has spread throughout the Orthodox world, in Greece, America, Serbia, Canada, Australia, Romania, and beyond. She is especially called upon for help with everyday problems, such as finding employment, housing, a spouse, or missing children. She also helps those suffering from alcoholism, marital problems, childlessness, and depression. However, even more than for her many miracles, this great saint is especially to be venerated for her holy and marvellous life. In this talk, Father Kosmas relates the life of Saint Xenia in some detail. Saint Xenia was happily married to an army colonel. Then, while attending a party, her husband suddenly died in a drunken state. This event shook Xenia, and because her beloved husband had died without confession and Holy Communion she became concerned for his soul. She went on to dedicate the remaining time of her life to struggling for the salvation of his soul by means of prayer and almsgiving, becoming for us a shining example of selfless love for one’s spouse even after death. The following questions are also discussed: how should one find a spouse? Can women work while raising children? When are parents considered murderers of their children’s souls? What is the highest form of love? Is there an aversion today to raising children? What are the two types of unrepentant Christians? How do we pray for the departed non-Orthodox? Other points covered in this talk include: how selfishness is one of the main diseases in marriages today; the beauty of loving one’s spouse; love beyond the grave; how good can come from catastrophes; emotional funerals; the miracle of God’s providence in our lives; some examples of Saint Xenia’s clairvoyance; and how the devil especially attacks those who serve in the Church. Talk 10 duration: 2hrs 4mins Chanting duration: 30mins (Canon to Saint Xenia) Total duration: 2hrs 34mins Acknowledgement: The icon of Saint Xenia is used with kind permission from Holy Trinity Monastery, Jordanville, NY, USA.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ Many Orthodox Christians fall into the great sin of employing psychics, clairvoyants, mediums, fortune-tellers and astrologers to gain knowledge of the unknown or to learn the future. Some are unaware of the Church’s strict condemnation of these supernatural practices, and of the danger involved. Others are aware of the Church’s teaching but choose to ignore it. Whether aware or unaware, one thing is certain: these people deny their baptism and therefore their salvation. In this talk, Father Kosmas presents in detail the Orthodox Church’s teaching regarding the forces behind these occult practices and their consequences. He explains how these practices are tools of the evil spirits, who use them to turn people from worshipping God to worshipping the demons. He notes that to be reconciled with Christ and His Church, one would need to repent, confess and promise to never again be involved in these demonic practices. The following questions are also discussed: can psychics, mediums, and others tell the future and do they ever speak the truth? Why is consulting one’s horoscope, trusting zodiac signs or believing in fate or chance considered a denial of God? What is the reason for the growing interest in the medical world in the full moon’s “negative effects” on human behaviour? Do demons and magicians really know what is in a person’s mind and heart? Could some Orthodox Christians be acting as mediums without knowing it? Other points covered in this talk include: an account of an Orthodox couple whose neighbour turned out to be a psychic medium who ‘communicates’ with the dead; how one international clairvoyant, spiritual healer and astrologer uses people’s problems to attract business; an Orthodox explanation of the haunted house phenomenon; the tragic consequences suffered by psychics and their clients; and a frightening account of a man who was told by a possessed person to become a preacher.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ Over the last few decades a storm has been raging over the roles of men and women in marriage. Saint Paul’s words regarding women have caused many to accuse Christianity of misogyny (the hatred of women). Two particularly controversial statements that he makes are “Wives should submit to their husbands in everything” and “The husband is the head of the wife.” The question arises: are these verses meant to be interpreted literally, and, if so, is it possible to fulfill them in these modern and ‘enlightened’ times? In this talk Father Kosmas uses the writings and advice of the saints and elders to analyze exactly what Saint Paul meant by “Wives should submit to their husbands in everything” and “The husband is the head of the wife.” He emphasizes that failure to understand these two verses is the leading cause of failed marriages today. The following questions are also discussed: if the man is the head of the wife does that make her inferior to him? Does submission in the marriage mean slavery? Should a woman obey an irresponsible husband? Does the Church consider the head of the family to be responsible for its spiritual and material wellbeing? Why did the saints consider the wife an advisor to her husband? Is the statement ‘God created inequality’ true? How does Christ’s statement that “whoever wants to be first must be slave of all” apply to a married couple? Which great saint of the Church called gender equality silly? Other points covered in this talk include: how there cannot be two heads in a marriage; the link between divorce and husbands who do not lead and love their family; an explanation of Elder Paisios’ words: “The husband is the captain of the household, but also the lowest laborer”; Saint John Chrysostom’s advice to a man who complained that his wife did not love him; the shameful and inexcusable fact that many Protestants adhere to Christian principles of marriage better than most Orthodox; and an unfortunate example of a woman whose husband did not show her love.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ Many Orthodox priests sadly admit that it is becoming increasingly common for people to come to confession with sins involving magic. There are many reasons people seek a magician’s help: marital problems, learning the future, healing from sickness, financial success, protection from the evil eye and black magic, communicating with a departed loved one, for “good luck”, and for “love”. But some people go to magicians for very different reasons: to cause marital problems or divorce, to cause physical and mental illness or death, or to create financial problems. In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the writings and advice of various saints and contemporary elders to present the Orthodox Church’s teaching on the topic of magic. He especially focuses on the dangers of becoming involved in any type of magic, and the reason why so many married couples today are affected. He also discusses the problem of how some people believe themselves to be victims of magic anytime something bad happens to them or their close ones. The following questions are also discussed: can magic be used to make someone marry a person? Can magic be used to prevent adultery or divorce? Does the evil eye really exist? Can a magician heal a sick person? What materials and objects are used in magic? What do magicians do to the charms and amulets they give people to “protect” them from black magic and the evil eye? Other points covered in this talk include: an account of one mother who tried to end her son’s marriage; an elder’s response to a woman who wanted to marry a married man; how an in-law’s interference can lead to divorce; the saints’ stern instructions to those who have been involved in magic or gone to magicians; a saint’s condemnation of those who cast magic spells on couples during the marriage ceremony; and accounts of mothers using magic on their married children.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com Subscribe to the Orthodox Talks podcast: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml Marriages today are often troubled by many problems: divorce, adultery, domestic violence, pornography, addictions, and mental illness, to name a few. This can happen for many reasons, but one of the most common is a failure to make good decisions in choosing whom to marry. Internet match-making and dating sites and chat rooms, pre-marital sexual relationships, and other modern approaches to meeting and choosing a spouse only serve to make the problem worse. In this talk, Father Kosmas discusses what one should look for in a spouse. He emphasises that the criteria used in choosing a spouse should also be applied to oneself. Some of the criteria discussed in detail include emotional maturity, financial responsibility, life skills, relationships with family and friends, spirituality, communication skills, personality, and one’s stance on contemporary social issues. Warning signs to look out for include possessiveness, perfectionism, fault-finding, depression and other mental problems, and religious fanaticism. The following questions are also discussed: is there such a thing as love at first sight? Can dating negatively affect one’s future marriage? Is there such a thing as a soul mate? What does sex without commitment really mean? Should love exist before marriage? Can emotions and physical attraction be dangerous when choosing a spouse? Is “compatibility” necessary for marriage? Should some people remain single? Is it important to seek God’s will when choosing a spouse? Is marrying at an early age appropriate? Other points covered in this talk include: the stress of dating and intimate relationships; pornography and its effects on one’s marriage; difficulty “socialising” without drugs or alcohol; unhealthy emotional relationships; the importance of preparing for marriage while still single; how an inferiority complex can influence one’s choice of a spouse; the danger of marrying someone who is having difficulty deciding between marriage and monasticism; and how mental or physical illness can affect a marriage.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ This talk is a continuation of Talk 46. There is considerable opposition to the teaching of the toll-houses. This opposition has been increasing over the last 150 years, and has long been recognized as one of the signs of ecclesiastical “modernism.” These modernists make a number of accusations against the toll-houses, including that they are not real, but rather are myths and fables, that they are fearful, that they are based on demonic visions, that they are a Western influence, and that because they are not dogma they should not be believed. In this talk, Father Kosmas outlines and discusses the many accusations made by a number of Orthodox clergymen and theologians against this soul-saving teaching of the toll-houses. To refute these accusations, he uses numerous examples from the following four sources: a. The Lives of the Saints; b. The Divine Services of the Orthodox Church; c. The Writings of the Holy Fathers; and d. The Holy Scriptures. After listening to this talk there will be no doubt that this teaching is indeed Orthodox, because for the entire history of the Church it has been “believed everywhere, always, and by all” (Saint Vincent of Lerins). The following questions are also discussed: should the Church use fear tactics similar to those used in the world? Are all visions regarding life after death true? Why did one saint excommunicate zealot monks? Do clergymen and theologians who deny the teaching of the toll-houses become a reason for the loss of many souls? Other points covered in this talk include: how two non-Orthodox theologians put many Orthodox bishops to shame; spiritual schizophrenia in the Church today; how some zealots also oppose the teaching of the toll-houses; the Catholic Church’s attitude towards supernatural references in the ancient lives of the saints; and how Church controversies can be immensely beneficial.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ For quite a few decades now there has been an increasing interest in the practice of the Jesus Prayer. A large number of books and pamphlets have been made available to the faithful giving detailed instructions on this prayer, which even include breathing techniques. The main focus of this teaching is to force the mind into the heart in order to acquire prayer of the heart. Orthodox Christians, including beginners, are encouraged to practice the Jesus Prayer with the aim of acquiring unceasing prayer. The question arises, is this always advisable? In this talk, Father Kosmas mainly uses contemporary saints and elders to explain not only the benefits but also the dangers of the Jesus Prayer, something that is rarely mentioned. Most importantly, he emphasizes that Orthodox Christians must begin the spiritual life at the lowest step and not attempt to reach spiritual states which are beyond their abilities, in order to avoid spiritual catastrophe and even diabolical deception. The following questions are also discussed: how can the Jesus Prayer lead to self-hypnosis? What is spiritual indigestion? Can it be more beneficial at times to marvel at the spiritual heights of the saints rather than imitate them? Why is it dangerous to interpret events in one’s life? What are the five levels of prayer? Can imitating the saints at times be dangerous? Why did an elder strictly warn Christians not to force themselves to pray? Other points covered in this talk include: body heat during prayer; a saint’s positive and negative attitudes toward the Philokalia; the dangers of reading books beyond one’s level; married people and monastic books; sexual lust and prayer; the difference between prayer of the heart and prayer in the heart or with the heart; the danger of fantasy in prayer; and the danger of seeing lights during prayer.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ It is a sad fact that divorce, so widespread in secular society and other religions, has become a rising problem in our Orthodox Church, as well. People seek divorce for many reasons, but the underlying reason is usually the same: a belief that there is no hope of saving the marriage. We often hear statements such as: “My husband will never change”, or: “My wife is incapable of improving”, or: “There is no point in continuing the marriage.” Tragically, some clergymen have a similar attitude, which only encourages divorce. In this talk, drawing on the letters of the famous Russian spiritual father Archimandrite John Krestiankin, Father Kosmas strongly denounces this incorrect attitude. Such statements are blasphemous, he explains, because they deny God’s power to change circumstances and people. The saints and elders teach that with prayer, struggle, and the many church services available to all Orthodox Christians, marriages can be saved from the disaster of divorce. The following questions are also discussed: how can religion be a reason for divorce? What advice has been given to people whose spouses are out of control? What advice does Saint John Chrysostom give those whose spouses are trying to force them into immorality or unbelief? How do children react to the parent who instigated the divorce? What is meant by “praying out” someone close to you? Is it always advisable to stay in a marriage no matter what the circumstances? Other points covered in this talk include: an instructive story about a priest who was tormented by his wife; advice for people contemplating divorce; how divorce should not be considered a personal matter, but something which affects others; how the many divorces and remarriages in the Orthodox Church have become a joke; and an account of a man whose wife threw him out and divorced him because of his addiction.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 RSS Feed: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml In the Orthodox Church today there is a growing trend towards using logic and reason to explain miracles, mysteries, Divine Providence and demonic phenomena. This school of thought has existed in the Western Church for centuries, and is known as rationalism. The disease of rationalism is now being spread in the Orthodox Church by some clergy and theologians, many of whom have studied in the West. But Orthodox Christianity cannot be comprehended solely through reason and logic. In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the teachings of Elder Paisios of Mount Athos (†1994) to explain that rationalism comes from a partial or complete lack of faith, and has its roots in pride, ego and self-trust. Since the Great Schism, there has always been within the Orthodox Church a battle between those of the true Orthodox spirit and those of this Western spirit. Father Kosmas emphasises that Orthodox Christians need to embrace the spirit of Orthodoxy as passed on to us by the saints and the elders, particularly those saints and elders who have lived during our times. The following questions are also discussed: is pride the cause of many mental illnesses? Why does God allow mental illness? Why are we blind to God’s intervention in our lives? Are there people whose spiritual lives exist only in their minds? Why did one well-educated priestmonk become mentally ill? What does the elder mean by “spiritual headache”? Can overindulging in reading spiritual books be dangerous? Other points covered in this talk include: how human logic in the spiritual life can lead to denial of divine and demonic supernatural phenomena; how God stopped a man who wanted to visit a fortune-teller; a simple monk who performed a miracle by praying to “Saint Ascension”; the miracle of the Holy Fire in Jerusalem; God’s judgement as opposed to human judgement; and the need to beware of priests and theologians who suffer from rationalism.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ In society today children are increasingly at risk of developing psychological and emotional problems, the effects of which can last long into adulthood. The question arises: why? The Church, doctors and psychologists all seem to agree that many of these problems are caused by trauma children experience in their mother’s womb and in the early years of their life. Unfortunately, many parents are unaware of what types of experiences are actually traumatic for their children. In this talk Father Kosmas uses the teachings of the contemporary elders Saints Paisios and Porphyrios to outline a number of experiences that negatively affect children, to the point of developing serious psychological, physical and emotional problems. The saints also give valuable advice to parents on how to identify and avoid these problems. The following questions are also discussed: what should parents do when children are rude and rebellious? What does St Paisios advise regarding spanking children? Can excessive reprimands hurt children psychologically? Why does St Paisios warn parents not to discipline their children before going to bed? What did St Porphyrios mean when he said of traumatized children, “The child grows up and develops, but deep down he does not change”? How can we help children to grow up strong and able to face life’s challenges? What are the different ways that parents transmit their own negative traits, habits and passions to their children? Can those who were damaged in childhood successfully marry and raise children? How does depression in children differ from depression in adults? Other points covered in this talk include: how the first two years are critical for the child’s later development; a saint’s advice to parents whose children shout, break things, hit others and are generally very naughty; an explanation of what Fr Seraphim Rose meant when he said, “­­Few are those today who can clearly express their emotions and ideas and face them in a mature way”; and the question of whether sending children to childcare or to school at a young age can cause serious problems.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com Subscribe to the Orthodox Talks podcast: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml There is a mistaken view that the spiritual life concerns only spiritual matters, and that physical and mental issues are of little or no importance. However, diet, exercise, recreation, relationships, and managing stress and anxiety are not only part of the spiritual life, but a very important aspect of it. Though many do not realize it, the Church teaches that disregarding or abusing our bodies and minds is sinful and contrary to the teachings of the Church. In this talk, Father Kosmas discusses this very relevant topic, drawing on the counsels of Elder Porphyrios of Greece (†1991). He emphasises that Elder Porphyrios was very understanding and lenient towards those who came to him because he understood the physical, mental, and spiritual weaknesses of Christians in these modern times. Listening to the elder’s discerning advice can help one avoid disasters that can even lead to the loss of one’s soul. The following questions are also discussed: what is the difference between regret and repentance? Should parents have the boldness to ask God for discernment? Does one prepare for confession, or only for Holy Communion? Should we turn to God or to doctors in times of sickness? Are Orthodox Christians more responsible than other Christians for the evil in the world? Is it appropriate for a spiritual father to give advice on diet, physical activity and work? Why is being disorganized a sin? Is a lukewarm Orthodox Christian worse than a nonbeliever? Other points covered in this talk include: how Elder Porphyrios counselled those who had suffered nervous breakdowns; examples of those whom the elder could not help; the relationship between fantasies and mental illnesses; the dangers of trying to imitate the spiritual gifts of elders; how true spiritual life begins with seeing one’s own sins; the attempt by some to avoid referring to the demons; and the frequent reluctance of Orthodox clergy to speak about fornication, adultery, homosexuality, and virginity, as opposed to many clergy of other faiths.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ Saint Nektarios the Wonderworker is one of the best-known saints in the Greek Orthodox Church. Anywhere in the world where there are Greeks, you can be certain of finding a church dedicated to him. Countless miracles attributed to the Saint have been reported in Greece, Australia, Canada, Europe, England, and the United States. Yet many know little or nothing about this great Saint. In this talk, Father Kosmas emphasizes that it is important and beneficial for Orthodox Christians to read detailed lives of saints. In fact, this holy practice is absolutely essential in the struggle for the salvation of our souls – a fact that becomes obvious upon listening to this talk. In part 1 of the life of Saint Nektarios, Father Kosmas describes in detail the Saint’s upbringing and early spiritual development, his young adulthood and entry into monasticism, and his ordination to the diaconate, priesthood and episcopate. The following questions are also discussed: what did Saint Nektarios consider the main purpose of education? Is it true that Orthodox saints oppose the theology and spirituality of the West? Which is worse, bodily cancer or spiritual cancer? Is it really important to reprimand and warn our children? How did Saint Kosmas of Aetolia influence Saint Nektarios? Do the saints experience any pain or despair during their persecutions? Other points covered in this talk include: the false idea that the saints never experienced physical or spiritual crises; Saint Nektarios’ fear of falling into pride; how life’s difficulties can teach one true prayer; how children bond more with the TV than with people; how Orthodox ecumenists use deceit for their unorthodox agenda; the difficulties of living under Turkish rule; and the importance of not pushing children to follow a fixed path.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ Married Orthodox Christians are constantly bombarded with misinformation regarding sexual relations in marriage. Mass media and entertainment, the internet, social networks and the educational system tirelessly wage war on the institution of marriage while promoting sexual immorality. Yet frequently when these confused and suffering married Christians turn to the clergy and even the saints of the Orthodox Church for guidance, here too they find conflicting opinions. What are they to do? In this talk Father Kosmas explains that the main reason for this confusion is that evil spirits are always striving to distort God’s creation, including marriage and sexual relations. The result is an improper attitude toward marital relations, sexual pleasure and sexual abstinence, and a misunderstanding of monasticism, virginity and chastity. He emphasizes that to understand the Church’s teaching on marriage and sexual relations one must study all aspects of it, and not focus only on the few saints, elders and clergymen whose views on the topic are contrary to the consensus of the Church. The following questions are also discussed: if marital relations are not sinful, why must Christians refrain from them on certain days? What did a saint mean when he said that even a married woman can still be considered a true virgin? What happened when a deacon stopped having marital relations with his beautiful wife for the sake of praise? Why did some saints say that marital relations are sinful while others said they are not? What dangers threaten those who abstain from marital relations beyond their abilities during the fasts? Other points covered in this talk include: the Church’s condemnation of those who taught that the pleasure associated with drinking wine, eating meat, and having marital relations is evil; why certain monastic saints have felt compelled to speak on this delicate topic; the tragic example of a spiritual father who encouraged a married couple to live as brother and sister; and how the undiscerning reading of monastic books can cause many problems in a marriage.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com Subscribe to the Orthodox Talks podcast: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml Today, more than ever before, parents are very concerned with the question of how to raise their children. A large percentage of Orthodox parents look for answers outside of the Church, in books and magazines, on the internet and TV, and from health practitioners. Some in desperation even resort to mediums, psychics, and magicians for advice and help. Unfortunately, the answers they receive are often incorrect, incomplete, or even dangerous. In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the teachings of Elder Porphyrios of Greece (†1991) to answer many questions regarding the upbringing of children. He draws on the many encounters of parents with the elder, who spoke with great discernment about issues specific to the times in which we live. Parents who have followed the elder’s advice have seen miracles occur in their families. The following questions are also discussed: can we blame children’s problems on their parents’ mistakes? Can putting pressure on children cause problems? Does the subconscious play a role in the spiritual life? Can constant arguing lead to holiness? Does a child in the womb inherit his mother’s passions? Can a mother’s aversion to her unborn child affect him in later life? Should selfish couples avoid having children? How can prayer heal those with mental illness? Can a person with OCD progress spiritually? Why did the elder advise one mother to leave her children for a time? Other points covered in this talk include: how the elder’s prayer brought a group of rebellious youth to church; how a lack of love between husband and wife can result in “problem children”; post-natal depression; the negative effects of feminism on Orthodox women; suicidal children; the destructive consequences of jealousy between siblings; spoiled children; the tragic effects of forcing people to go to confession; the false idea that holiness means living without sins and passions; and the need for parents to pay attention and respond to their children’s anxieties and fears.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ People often say that Orthodox Christians should focus on loving Christ and their neighbors, and not bother thinking about the demons. These same people criticise those who instruct the faithful concerning demonic warfare. When Elder Paisios of Mount Athos was writing the life of Elder Arsenios the Cappadocian, he was advised to omit all references to demonic possession in order to appeal to European readers, many of whom do not even believe the devil exists. In this talk Father Kosmas explains that Orthodox Christians are called spiritual athletes, spiritual warriors, and soldiers of Christ precisely because they do battle not only with their own passions, but also with the demons. He emphasises that a Christian must know his enemy in order to defeat him and attain salvation, and points out that revealing one’s thoughts to a spiritual father is one of the best defences against the demons. The following questions are also discussed: is revelation of thoughts to a spiritual father only for monastics? How should one look for a good spiritual father? Why can it be dangerous to watch an exorcism? Are Christians allowed to believe some dreams? Can pride produce spiritual zeal? Why did one priest say that he prefers passionate spiritual children? What can happen when a person ignores his conscience? How does a proud person relate to the demons? Are there substitutes for exorcisms? Can the demons help one to fight heresy? What is meant by “experiential humility”? Is it the goal of spiritual struggle to attain divine gifts? Other points covered in this talk include: the perils of trusting oneself more than one’s spiritual father; a monk’s experience of hearing a voice at his door; how a priest wanted to learn his future from a demon; how the church services and prayers produce humble-mindedness; the difference between Roman Catholic and Orthodox exorcisms; black magic in Africa; the importance of opening up to one’s spiritual father; the spiritual warfare one undergoes before confession; and one Orthodox “zealot’s” horrible attitude towards women.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ It is becoming increasingly common for Orthodox clergymen to send believers with mental health issues, including children, to psychiatrists and psychologists for treatment. Moreover, many clergymen study and use psychology to help those with spiritual or mental health problems. As a result, many are left without healing because Divine Grace has been replaced by the human art of psychology. In this talk Father Kosmas uses the teachings of the contemporary elders Saints Paisios and Porphyrios to explain how children are not only influenced by seeing the good and bad examples of their parents (something psychology agrees with), but also by the spiritual state of their parents (something psychology cannot comprehend and rejects). Father Kosmas emphasizes that parents can spiritually transmit to their children either their passions and sins or their good habits and virtues. The following questions are also discussed: what was Saint Paisios’s attitude towards psychiatrists and psychologists? Are Christians allowed to take psychiatric medications? What is meant by “The best inheritance parents can give their children is their own spiritual life”? How do parents spiritually transmit either passions or virtues to their children? Can children be affected by their parents’ viewing of pornography and flirting on social media? Can parents harm their own children by the evil eye? Are children punished for the sins of their parents? How does a parent’s sin of abortion affect his or her other children? Other points covered in this talk include: an example of how a daughter tormented her parents because of a secret sin they committed; how one’s good or evil thoughts can affect people and even physical objects; how a mother can transmit stress, anxiety and fear to her child without showing what she feels; an explanation of Saint Porphyrios’s teaching that “the sanctity of the parents saves the child”; and four circumstances in which Orthodox Christians are permitted to seek the help of psychiatrists and psychologists.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com Saint Paul says that anyone who wants to live the life in Christ will be persecuted. Are there Orthodox Christians today enduring persecution for Christ’s sake? Is it necessary for those in the West to prepare for persecutions? Orthodox Christians are confused about when to speak up, when to confess the Faith and, in general, what their attitude towards the heterodox and the non-Christian world should be. In particular, what should our attitude be towards those who wish us harm or want to convert us to their faith? In this talk, Father Kosmas uses a number of examples from the lives of the saints to show how Orthodox Christians lived in non-Orthodox areas, with pagans, Muslims and Christians of other faiths and how they dealt with hostility towards Orthodoxy. He also explains why some openly confessed their faith while others kept their faith secret. He explains that, even though Orthodox Christians of the West are not subject to open persecution, they have many subtle opportunities to either confess or deny Christ in their everyday lives. The following questions are also discussed: are we called to express our faith in every circumstance? Does sometimes hiding one’s belief mean betraying Christ? Are contemporary Orthodox Christians actually denying Christ from fear of mockery? Can the upbringing of children be considered martyrdom? Why is there so much confusion surrounding sexual sins? Other points covered in this talk include: spiritual ignorance; external Christianity; spiritual pride; deceptive piety; the dangers of quoting the Holy Canons; how God sees our efforts versus our achievements; the difference between homophobia and sin-ophobia; and how to deal with lukewarm Christians.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com In the last few decades, much has been said about the effects of emotional, sexual, and physical abuse, particularly on children. What is often overlooked is that not all forms of abuse are so obvious. Many parenting practices that the world sees as perfectly normal and even beneficial are very harmful spiritually. By engaging in these practices through ignorance or slackness, many Orthodox Christians become guilty of spiritually abusing their own children. In this talk, Father Kosmas examines a number of common practices that in reality are spiritually abusive. He brings to light that many problems experienced by adults stem from the spiritual abuse they suffered as children, and he describes how many spiritually abused people either never come to the Church or, if they do, find even basic spiritual life very difficult. The following questions are also discussed: can the devil heal? Are all sins forgivable? Is demonic possession always bad? Are God’s judgements always fair? How does the devil make false promises? What is the “can’t feel” syndrome? Why are jails and hospitals full? How does the devil present himself as our friend? How does monasticism have a positive effect on society? Can God’s chastisement be an act of love? Is it foolish for parents to be preoccupied with their children’s intelligence and academic success? Other points covered in this talk include: how social and emotional problems in children can stem from spiritual abuse; the harm caused by early education of infants and toddlers; encouragement of fantasy in children; exposure of infants and toddlers to television; promotion of interest in the occult in young children and teenagers; the Antichrist and miracles; society’s disdain for childbearing and the upbringing of children; bringing up children using various psychological theories; and how Christians can mistakenly emphasize secular education over moral education.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 RSS Feed: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml This talk is a continuation of Talk 24: "Elders vs. Religious Intellectuals: Whom to Follow?" Asceticism is the most important aspect of Orthodox spirituality, for it is the path by which one acquires the grace of God. But the holy elders of our times teach that today there is a lack, and even an absence, of asceticism in the Church. Without asceticism, Christians tend to ignore the heart and the conscience, and instead use logic and reason in spiritual matters. The question then arises: what is true asceticism? In this talk, Father Kosmas explains that true asceticism is the struggle to keep the commandments of Christ, not simply following various external rules and abstaining from certain foods. He goes on to list many aspects of everyday life that can be considered ascetical and are therefore spiritually beneficial. By struggling to keep the commandments, one can acquire grace and thereby avoid the pitfall of using logic and reason in spiritual matters. For as we read in Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit only abides in those who keep Christ’s commandments. The following questions are also discussed: why did Elder Paisios call those clerics sick who used psychology to help souls? What should be our attitude towards atheists? Why are Christians who complain about the evil in the world called “saltless”? How does God humble the proud? Should we condemn drug addicts, prostitutes, fornicators, homosexuals, alcoholics, etc.? Why are priests increasingly referring their spiritual children to psychologists? How should we view abuse of men by women? Other points covered in this talk include: an “illogical” explanation for the death of infants and children; how studies in academic theology can produce unbelievers; how mental illness can be viewed as a spiritual struggle and even martyrdom; how spiritual progress comes when we stop focusing on our personal problems; and the wonderful example of a woman who endured abuse from her husband.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ This talk is a continuation of Talk 76: “Speak Less to Your Children, and More to God About Your Children!” Many Orthodox parents have a tendency not to ask for help when experiencing problems with their young and adult children. This may be either out of pride or because they simply do not realize that such help is available within the Church. In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the teachings of various saints and elders to outline three ways in which parents can receive help with their children. The first is for parents to pray for their children. The second is for parents to ask clergy and monastics for prayers and advice. The third way is for parents to submit their children’s names for commemoration at 40 consecutive Divine Liturgies – usually at monasteries that serve Divine Liturgy every day. The following questions are also discussed: how should parents react upon realizing their mistakes with their children? Why do many religious parents experience failure with their children? Why do many saints and elders emphasise the importance of a mother’s prayers? Why is it important for parents to keep in mind their children’s salvation when dealing with their problems? Should parents pray for God to send suffering to their rebellious children? Why do some struggling parents progress spiritually while others deteriorate? What can parents do when their children leave home prematurely? Other points covered in this talk include: how God will judge today’s children leniently because of their difficult circumstances; Saint Ambrose of Optina’s advice to a mother whose son had become rebellious and an unbeliever; why only some monastics can give advice to parents; how Saint Paisios warned parents against being overanxious about their children; how parents should not coerce their children to do good; the story of a young man who complained to a priest that he wanted to fall with a woman but continually failed; and how Saint Porphyrios helped a mother whose son was staying out all night with bad company.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ This talk is a continuation of Talk 41. We live in times of weak faith and a general lack of spirituality. One of the reasons for this is that experienced spiritual guides are very few. This gives rise to a major problem with respect to the inner spiritual life, namely, difficulty in knowing whether our spiritual feelings and experiences are real. These feelings include: joy, peace, warmth, sweetness, love, calmness, zeal, boldness, power, consolation and tears. Obviously, Orthodox Christians of today need to know the difference between false and true spirituality. In this talk, Father Kosmas explains the absolute necessity of seeking guidance from the writings of those Holy Fathers who have lived in recent times. Also, when possible, one should seek guidance from discerning spiritual fathers living in our times. All these spiritual guides emphasize the importance of understanding that spiritual life in the last times requires a somewhat different approach and attitude from that taught by the ancient fathers. The following questions are also discussed: why did one elder slap a novice? Why would demons encourage Christians to aim for virtues? Can audio-visual technology have an adverse effect on one’s spiritual life? Is there anything wrong with Facebook? Can seeking love for God prematurely be dangerous? What are the true signs of spiritual progress? Other points covered in this talk include: spiritual suicide; the spiritual tantrums of spoilt Christians; the Holy Fathers’ prophecies regarding monastics of the last times; why Christians of today need spiritual sunglasses; soul-saving advice on how to approach the writings of the Holy Fathers; the delusion of laypeople who seek to live as monastics; a young man’s strange absence of any passions; and how a quiet young woman was mistaken for a saint.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/orthodoxtalks/ One would have thought that in today’s supposed sexually free and enlightened society sexual problems would be at a minimum. Yet on the contrary we see that sexual problems are worsening, and among married couples can even lead to divorce. Many seek the help of sex therapists, marriage counselors, psychologists, doctors, and those involved in supernatural practices. This includes even some Orthodox Christians, who instead of seeking help from the Church are running to the same people mentioned above. Why? In this talk, Father Kosmas draws on the works of Saint John Chrysostom to provide solutions to many sexual problems encountered in marriage. In particular, he speaks in detail about Saint Paul’s teaching regarding the sexual rights of the spouses. Knowledge of this teaching not only helps to bring about marital harmony, but is also a remedy against the horrible disease of adultery. The following questions are also discussed: why were so many people embarrassed when listening to Saint John Chrysostom speaking about sex in marriage? What is the main reason for marriage: childbearing or avoiding sexual immorality? Is it worse for a woman to commit the sin of adultery than for a man? Why is the Church always cautious regarding sexual abstinence in marriage? How did Saint John Chrysostom describe households in which one spouse abstains from sexual relations without the other’s permission? Other points covered in this talk include: the many reasons a spouse can lose sexual interest and the problems associated with this; the difference between an unmarried person committing fornication and a married person committing adultery; how husband and wife are equally responsible for the honour of their marriage bed; the false belief that Saint Paul’s words, “The wife does not rule over her own body, but the husband does” is an example of the Church’s repression of women; and a saint’s advice to the married on how to respond to someone attempting to seduce them into adultery.

Orthodox Talks by Priestmonk Kosmas, Sydney, Australia Website: www.OrthodoxTalks.com iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/orthodox-talks/id1659252607 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0sKZoGUhAjJua9RtjoZS73 RSS Feed: https://media.rss.com/orthodoxtalks/feed.xml A great many Orthodox Christians who fast, confess, commune, attend the church services, and perform various ascetic labors complain of a feeling of spiritual coldness and deadness. They are surprised, thinking that doing all this ought to help them in acquiring the grace of God. Common characteristics of such people include self-satisfaction, vainglory, self-trust, self-will, being judgmental, and a lack of both repentance and self-knowledge. In this talk, Father Kosmas uses the teachings of Saint Ignatius Brianchaninov to explain the reason for coldness and deadness in the spiritual life and how to overcome this. He explains that true spiritual life requires not just the fulfilment of external requirements, but practising the teachings of the Gospel, recognizing our own sinfulness, and cultivating a sense of repentance. The following questions are also discussed: why do we find it difficult to repent? How are the passions spiritually beneficial? Is prayer worthless without repentance? Why do the Jehovah’s Witnesses and other sectarians seem so peaceful and calm? Can joy in the spiritual life be demonic? How can we see God? What is the difference between children of God and children of the devil? What did the saints regard as greater than miracle-working and good works? Can God still give us what we ask even when He knows it is not good for us? Other points covered in this talk include: the logical reason for the Western Church’s doubt or denial of wonders and miracles in the lives of the ancient saints; rampant pharisaism in the Orthodox Church today; the tragedy of not reading the Holy Bible on a daily basis; how not noticing one’s vainglory is equal to having no inner spiritual life; the repulsiveness of a self-opinionated person; the difference between the holy water of the Orthodox Church and that of the Roman Catholic Church; and how not wanting to sin can be a deception. Acknowledgement: The icon of Saint Ignatius is used with kind permission from Holy Trinity Monastery, Jordanville, NY, USA.