About St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church Bible Study
Through our Bible studies, sermons, classes, and retreats, we seek to enter more deeply into the life and teaching of the Orthodox Church. Our classes are led by Mr. Anthony Ally, while our sermons and retreats include teaching from Fr. Stephen Osburn, Dn. Vassily Kocher, and Fr. Michael Matsko. Drawing from Holy Scripture, the wisdom of the Church Fathers, the rhythms of liturgical life, and the sacred Tradition handed down through the ages, these teachings help us see the whole Christian life in the light of Christ.
Whether we are reflecting on the daily readings, commemorating a feast or saint, studying the Scriptures, listening to a sermon, or learning how to live the Orthodox faith in daily life, our purpose remains the same: to encounter the living Christ more deeply and more truly.
These teachings are open to everyone, whether you are an inquirer, a catechumen, newly received into the Church, or a lifelong Orthodox Christian seeking a deeper understanding of the faith. Come and journey with us.
November 8th, 2026: Eucharist at Heart of Orthodox Christian Life
Why is the Eucharist at the center of Orthodox Christian life? The Orthodox Church teaches that Holy Communion truly unites the faithful to Christ and to one another as His Body. In this sermon, guest homilist Fr. Michael Matsko explains how that communion shapes our worship and our relationships. Preaching on the Synaxis of the Archangel Michael and the Other Bodiless Powers, he reminds us that the angels join us in glorifying God. Our gathering for the Divine Liturgy brings us into the shared life of the Church.
Drawing on the teaching of Fr. Alexander Schmemann, Fr. Michael presents the Eucharist as the sacrament of the Church’s assembly. The prayers, readings, offerings, and reception of Holy Communion belong to one continuous act of worship. Through this worship, we offer our lives to God and receive His gifts. Fr. Michael also reflects on the responsibilities of pastoral ministry and the importance of praying for our clergy. Every member of the parish has a part in its life of prayer, service, and witness.
The communion we receive calls us to practice forgiveness, humility, and love throughout the week. Fr. Michael warns that harsh judgments and careless religious arguments can push people away from Orthodoxy. He encourages the faithful to seek sound teaching and remain willing to receive correction. As more people approach the Orthodox Church, parishes must be prepared to welcome and teach them patiently. Growth brings a responsibility to care for each person seeking a life in Christ.
How does our participation in the Divine Liturgy shape the way we speak and act? Do newcomers encounter patience and kindness when they meet us? This homily invites us to examine those questions through the Church’s calling to unity and communion. Pray for your clergy, welcome someone you do not yet know, and look for a practical way to serve. Through these ordinary acts, we learn to live the love we proclaim in worship.
7 Nov 2026
The Little Entrance: Christ Comes To His People
Why do Orthodox Christians carry the Gospel Book through the church before reading from it? This procession is called the Little Entrance. It calls us to worship Christ and prepares us to hear His Gospel. In Class 4 of our Divine Liturgy series, Fr. Stephen Osburn looks back to the ancient cathedral tradition, when the bishop, clergy, and faithful gathered inside the church to begin the Liturgy.
We follow the Gospel Book from the Holy Table to the doors of the sanctuary. Along the way, the priest quietly asks the holy angels to enter and worship with us. The Gospel Book is raised, and we hear, “Wisdom! Let us attend!” The clergy also sing, “Come, let us worship,” sharing in the prayer they lead. We hear how the hymns can change with the weekday or feast, then follow the service through the Trisagion and the movement toward the High Place before the readings.
Many of us arrive at church with our minds still on the morning rush. The Little Entrance gives us a moment to come back to prayer. We can watch as the Gospel Book is raised and listen for the invitation to worship. In the Trisagion, we ask God for mercy together. When the Gospel is read, we can ask what Christ is calling us to put into practice that week.
At your next Divine Liturgy, listen for one phrase in the Entrance Hymn. On an ordinary Sunday, you’ll hear the Church acclaim Christ as risen from the dead. At a feast, listen for the words that tell you what the Church is celebrating. Then notice how that moment shapes the way you hear the Gospel. If you’re new to Orthodox Christianity, come and experience the procession and prayers with us.
1 Nov 2026
November 1st, 2026: Let Your Home Be a Little Church
In this sermon on Luke 8:26–39, Fr. Stephen Osburn reflects on Christ’s healing of the man possessed by demons. The Gospel reveals the Lord’s power to restore a person whose life has been torn apart. It also challenges us to consider how we respond when God’s healing disrupts familiar habits. The Orthodox Church teaches that the faith we practice in worship should shape our daily lives. Prayer, repentance, and love carry the life of the Church into our homes and workplaces.
The demons called Legion bring destruction, but Christ restores the suffering man to peace. Fr. Stephen explains that evil corrupts what God has made good. Good things, including our spiritual lives, need patient care and attention. The services and sacraments of the Orthodox Church nourish us and help form our hearts. We are called to let that formation continue throughout the week.
Making your home a little church begins with ordinary acts of faithfulness. Morning and evening prayers, thanksgiving before meals, and praying together make room for God in daily routines. Forgiveness, generosity, and patient service bring that prayer into our relationships. The Jesus Prayer helps us turn toward the Lord during work, travel, and quiet moments. These practices help us respond to temptation with repentance and renewed trust in God.
Where in your day could you begin making more room for prayer? Consider one small practice you can take up faithfully. If you struggle or forget, return to God and begin again. Whether you live alone or with family, your home can become a place of prayer and mercy. This homily invites you to experience Orthodox Christianity as a life that shapes all seven days of the week.
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Questions about St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church Bible Study
Who hosts St. Mary Magdalene Orthodox Church Bible Study?
Anthony Ally and Father Stephen Osburn host the show. Published by Fr Stephen Osburn.
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