Best Orthodox Christian Leadership Podcasts (2024)

1
Effective Stewardship Campaigns and Percentage Giving 2:20:47

8M ago2:20:47

2:20:47

Bill teaches how parishes can substantially improve their stewardship campaigns and results by using successful approaches to increase generosity and tithing in their local communities.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Strategic Leadership Innovation, and Change Management in Orthodox Parishes and Ministries Part 3 2:04:35

9M ago2:04:35

2:04:35

Orthodoxy has declined from 20% of global Christians in 1910 to 12% in 2010. We are not yet making Orthodox "disciples of all nations" to the degree our Lord instructed us. PART 3: Listen to the latest leadership, innovation, and change management best practices and researchBy Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Strategic Leadership, Innovation & Change Management in Orthodox Parishes and Ministries Part 2 1:55:49

9M ago1:55:49

1:55:49

Orthodoxy has declined from 20% of global Christians in 1910 to 12% in 2010. We are not yet making Orthodox "disciples of all nations" to the degree our Lord instructed us. Why? Some answers can be found in the latest leadership, innovation, and change management best practices and research.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Strategic Leadership, Innovation & Change Management in Orthodox Parishes and Ministries Part 1 1:49:30

10M ago1:49:30

1:49:30

Orthodoxy has declined from 20% of global Christians in 1910 to 12% in 2010. We are not yet making Orthodox "disciples of all nations" to the degree our Lord instructed us. Why? Some answers can be found in the latest leadership, innovation, and change management best practices and research.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Living A Christian Worldview 1:57:48

11M ago1:57:48

1:57:48

Join Bill and Dr. Barry Doublestein to find out what a Christian worldview is, how to define and clarify yours, and learn what you can do to become a Christ-centered leader who is worthy of being followed.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Strategic Planning Part 2 2:04:16

12M ago2:04:16

2:04:16

Every church does some things well and struggles with others. In Part 2, Join Bill Marianes for a recommended step-by-step parish strategic planning process.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Strategic Planning Part 1 1:58:31

12M ago1:58:31

1:58:31

Every church does some things well and struggles with others. Join Bill Marianes, Fr. Ted Barbas, Dr. Don Khouri, Panos Coufos and Alex Cooley to discuss the process and results from the first-ever parish strategic planning retreat.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Who Is this King of Glory? 19:37

1y ago19:37

19:37

Who is this King of Glory? With the image of Jesus on the cross, recall Isaiah 53:3: He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Fr. Timothy Lowe looks to the Gospel of Matthew as the climax to the biblical story in the people's…

1
He Leads Them In Repentance 20:23

1y ago20:23

20:23

King Josiah led his people in a magnificent building campaign to beautify their temple. But it all came to a screeching halt when the Book of the Law, neglected for generations by the Kings of Israel, was discovered and its words read aloud. King Josiah realized the Lord's judgment was at hand, and so he led his people in repentance. "There was no …

1
Religious Freedom and Critical Legal Issues 2:06:26

1y ago2:06:26

2:06:26

Join Bill Marianes and Professor Brad Jacobs, Associate Dean and Constitutional Law Professor at Regent University School of Law, for a discussion about religious freedom and the critical legal issues that matter most to our Christian churches, institutions, and faithful.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Wayward Wisdom 17:23

1y ago17:23

17:23

We had hoped the young King Solomon, in his request to the Lord for wisdom, would avoid the typical temptations that come with power and prestige. But the frailty of the human ego shows itself again in the wayward path Solomon takes in seeking not the Lord, but wealth and security in other gods and earthly alliances. In this line of biblical kings,…

1
A Listening Heart 19:56

1y ago19:56

19:56

If you had only one wish, what would it be? The young King Solomon asked not for long life, nor riches, nor victory over his enemies. We learn from the story in I Kings that the Lord was pleased that Solomon instead asked for a "listening heart," to govern and discern what is right. Fr. Timothy Lowe reminds us that the right beginning, the initial …

1
The Man's Choice 21:39

1y ago21:39

21:39

If we claim to live as a servant of God, a doulos tou theou, we must reckon with the daily choice: Do I serve and protect my own interests and my own life? Or serve the will of God, even at the cost of my own comfort and life? Fr. Chris Salamy compares the story of the man, Adam, in the Garden of Eden with the story of the man, Jesus, in the Garden…

1
A Complicated Character 21:05

1y ago21:05

21:05

Who is the real David? On the one hand, a humble shepherd boy who courageously obeys the Lord and is anointed king of Israel. On the other hand, adulterer and murderer in his dealings with Bathsheba and Uriah. On the first hand, sorrowfully repentant, and Psalmist. On the other hand, abandons his duty in providing justice for his daughter, Tamar, w…

1
Helping the Human Side of Our Churches and Ministries 1:53:10

1y ago1:53:10

1:53:10

Today, we are experiencing unprecedented challenges in the human resources needs in our parishes and ministries, including shortages of clergy, volunteers, ministry leaders, and staff. Join Bill and Dr. Scott Mondore to explore best practices to improve the engagement and results.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
A Shepherd Turns Predator 16:29

1y ago16:29

16:29

Not long after the Lord establishes his shepherd, David, over his people Israel, does King David turn to devour his own flock. Bored and distracted at home while his armies fight the king's battles, David takes another man's wife. To cover up his adultery, he betrays and murders his loyal and faithful servant, Uriah the Hittite. We are reminded aga…

1
Who Builds? Whose House? 20:14

1y ago20:14

20:14

Safe from his enemies and finally secure in his own palace, King David desires to build the Lord a house of cedar. The Lord reminds David through His prophet Nathan that the ark of the Lord moves and dwells in a tent. The Lord has no need for a house. Furthermore, it is the Lord who establishes David and his house, and not the other way around. Tak…

1
Searching For a Leader 20:31

1y ago20:31

20:31

Constantly searching for impressive candidates - from elected officials, to job postings, to new recruits on parish councils - we hope to find leaders in whom we can trust. Yet every leader who comes from the seed of Adam falls short. Fr. Timothy Lowe looks to the story of God's regret that He had made Saul king over Israel, a similar regret we hea…

1
Why Are We Astonished? 18:01

1y ago18:01

18:01

Good leaders manage expectations. Good leaders provide clarity and a path forward to eliminate surprise and disappointment. Since the beginning, the Lord makes it clear that all will be well for those who do His will. As Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's Gospel, he reiterates His Father's expectation. The crowds who follow Him ar…

1
Beware Consolation Before Crucifixion 21:53

1y ago21:53

21:53

What's the connection between functioning as a servant of God and hoping in the inheritance as a son of God? Fr. Paul Hodge remembers the aphorism of Fr. Thomas Hopko of blessed memory, "Beware of consolation before the crucifixion." Like a child who wants dessert before dinner, we may want all of the glory of God's promises now. Looking to Romans …

1
Careful What You Wish 19:52

1+ y ago19:52

19:52

What do you wish for in this new year? Imagine if your every wish stirred an impulse to serve your neighbor with the very thing you first desire from them? Fr. Timothy Lowe turns to Matthew 7 which challenges our presumptions and turns the worldly order upside-down. The easy path leads to destruction while the narrow gate leads to life. Those who l…

1
Put On the New 18:05

1+ y ago18:05

18:05

In what ways do weBy The Ephesus School

1
Thy Kingdom Come 22:47

1+ y ago22:47

22:47

A new year offers a chance to reflect and reset priorities. What kinds of new year resolutions are set by the servants of the Lord? Fr. Timothy Lowe suggests we resolve to pray, out loud and often, the very words provided by Jesus in Matthew's Gospel. Our daily bread is closely linked to the daily practice of forgiveness, suggesting that as often a…

1
Leadership : Parish Council and Ministry Best Leadership Practices 2:14:22

1+ y ago2:14:22

2:14:22

Leadership is a critical difference between the most effective and healthy Orthodox Christian parishes and ministries, and those not fulfilling their potential. If you’re a parish council member or ministry leader, join Bill to learn about the 6 Elements of the Stewardship Calling Orthodox Servant Leadership Model and how to apply them so your pari…

1
Your Father Knows What You Need 16:37

1+ y ago16:37

16:37

In what ways is prayer used to gain the favor of men, to bargain for position, or even to gossip and control others? Fr. Timothy Lowe submits to the critique of Matthew's Gospel which warns about heaping up empty words and praying in order to be seen by men. A Father provides for His children, and Our Father in Heaven knows what you need before you…

1
Roadmap to Parish Health 22:51

1+ y ago22:51

22:51

Does your parish have a dedicated outreach or missions and evangelism team? Fr. Evan Armatas boldly suggests that the Great Commission cannot be sequestered to committee; it must be at the heart of parish life. Reflecting on Hebrews 13 where the Apostle Paul summarizes, "Do not neglect to good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are ple…

1
Interview with John Maddex 3:09:36

1+ y ago3:09:36

3:09:36

Following up on Part 1 with Melinda Johnson, join Bill and his guest John Maddex to explore his story, the story of Ancient Faith Ministries, and passing on the baton. Bill is planning a grueling cross-examination to uncover all the lessons learned and wisdom John has to offer.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
In Order To Be Seen 18:33

1+ y ago18:33

18:33

Reactions to Black Friday and Giving Tuesday range from enthusiasm to disgust. Many just feel conflicted with the commercialization of the holidays which is intended as a time for thanksgiving, spending time with loved ones, and extending acts of mercy and generosity as the Lord graciously offers His Son for the salvation of all. How do business an…

1
Above Reproach 20:46

1+ y ago20:46

20:46

How can the Apostle Paul call himself a "blasphemer" and the "chief of sinners" and then go on to lay out expectations for the bishops and the deacons to live above reproach? In this episode, Andrea Bakas provides an in-depth word study which unveils powerful imagery stemming from episkopos and diakonos. We look to First Timothy to understand what …

1
Clarifying Questions 19:32

1+ y ago19:32

19:32

What motivates our questions? Do we seek security, favor, and position when we ask that which we already know? Or do we seek clarity and common reference in the Scripture so that we can get on with the business of doing? The story of the Good Samaritan and the inverted question Jesus asks, "Who was neighbor to that man?" clarifies the question aske…

1
Paybacks 16:27

1+ y ago16:27

16:27

What does judgment have to do with servant leadership? On the one hand, absolutely nothing. If judgment is the Lord's, the doulos, the servant or slave in the Lord's household, cannot stand in the place of judge. The Lord alone is Judge. On the other hand, our daily activities and responsibilities require us to exercise fairness and a certain level…

1
Beyond Basic 18:41

1+ y ago18:41

18:41

Jesus calls his followers to be exceptional. It's easy to feel exceptional when the whole room of people who look like you and behave like you express their love for you. But Jesus isn't impressed by loving those who love you and saluting only your brethren. That's just basic human behavior. Jesus sets a higher bar in Matthew's Gospel with instruct…

1
Reclaiming the Great Commission with guest Fr. Evan Armatas 2:47:32

1+ y ago2:47:32

2:47:32

Tune in this week to Stewardship Calling as host Bill Marianes talks with Fr. Evan Armatas about his new book, Reclaiming the Great Commission. In his book, Fr. Evan provides a roadmap for parishes to diagnose and remove barriers and get back on track.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Meet the New AFM CEO Melinda Johnson 2:29:32

1+ y ago2:29:32

2:29:32

This week on Stewardship Calling, meet the new CEO of Ancient Faith Ministries, Melinda Johnson. Learn about her history, what brought her to Ancient Faith, and her vision for the future.By Christ the Savior Orthodox Church and Ancient Faith Radio

1
Entrusted With The Keys 16:45

1+ y ago16:45

16:45

We hear early in Genesis that man is made in the image and likeness of God and given dominion over the earth. On the surface, this text might appeal to the baser side of the human ego that lusts for power and prestige. But a deeper look will acknowledge that dominion over anything, large or small, carries an important burden of responsibility. Blai…

1
Contempt and Corruption 18:19

1+ y ago18:19

18:19

We all like a fresh start. New beginnings are filled with hope and promise. A new mission, a new ministry, a new ordination, a new role of service, a new life. How is it that we become derailed so quickly? The stories told in 1 Samuel hearken of hopeful beginnings in the priestly line, the prophetic line, and the kingly line, but it doesn't take lo…

1
Keeping Promises 19:11

1+ y ago19:11

19:11

Servant leaders make good on their promises. The story of Hannah in the opening of 1 Samuel demonstrates the gravity of remembrance, grace, and vows. Hannah, barren and distressed, pours out her soul to the Lord and trusts in the blessing of promise from Eli, the priest. The Lord remembers her, extending grace through the birth of a son. But the re…

1
The Source of Recognition 18:12

1+ y ago18:12

18:12

In what ways do our presumptions and expectations cloud our vision? Fr. Seraphim Solof opens Luke 24 for the story of Jesus who appears to his disciples on the road to Emmaus. The disciples had just witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus; the very one they had expected to redeem Israel is now presumed dead. Unable at first to recognize the risen Jesus,…

1
For the Next Generation 19:12

1+ y ago19:12

19:12

What are our motivations for serving and leading? Upon what is hope founded? Do we strive for a prize? Or is there something greater than our own efforts and personal reward? After 40 years of leading God's people in the desert, it may seem harsh that Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land. The final scene in Deuteronomy makes it clear th…

1
Who Feeds Whom? 17:58

1+ y ago17:58

17:58

The shepherd and flock imagery used in Scripture create a rich paradigm to consider servant leadership. Leadership isn't about gaining success on the backs of those you serve, but bending your back to serve those entrusted to your care. Dn. Henok Elias, host of the Tewahido Bible Study podcast, opens Ezekiel 34 where leaders are criticized for grow…

1
Why Argue When the Lord Provides? 17:22

1+ y ago17:22

17:22

What would our work loads look like if we put as much time actually doing the work as we do creating excuses for avoiding the work at hand? More importantly, what would our communities look like if we actually put as much time doing the Lord's work as we do creating excuses in sin? The calling of Moses provides insight into this common human inclin…

1
Religious Freedom and Other Issues that Matter to our Church and Faith 1:43:06

1+ y ago1:43:06

1:43:06

This week, Bill and guest Dr. Andrew Ekonomou tackle the important topic of religious freedom in our society. They'll look at restrictions on the free exercise of religion, attacks on the separation of church and state, limitations on the free speech permitted to people of faith, challenges on protecting the unborn, and legal challenges to teaching…

1
Who Am I? 22:51

1+ y ago22:51

22:51

When the Lord commissions Moses to bring the sons of Israel out of Egypt, Moses questions, "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh?" We learn it's not about, "who am I?" but it's about the One who sends Moses. "I AM WHO I AM" is the God who acts as the Father to His people. When faced with a difficult task, leaders may ask that question even today, "…

1
A Foundational Calling 16:05

1+ y ago16:05

16:05

Simon Peter, in obedience to the Master's instruction, cast his net into the deep. One might think he'd won the lottery with so much fish that it broke the fishermen's nets and began to sink their boats! Instead, Simon Peter acknowledges his own sinfulness and falls at the knees of Jesus. Fr. Timothy Lowe reminds us that only the mercy of the Lord,…

1
Reference Points 20:00

1+ y ago20:00

20:00

Whom do you seek to please? Whom do you fear? A powerful leader seeking to please himself, King Herod desired to kill John the Baptist for referring to God's law above Herod. Fearing the people, Herod at first refrained from killing John because the people considered him a prophet. Seeking to please his unlawful wife's daughter and his dinner guest…

1
Sober Up 17:56

1+ y ago17:56

17:56

Leaders would rather lead change and preach repentance and mercy. But what happens when time has run out? Standing in the Lord's presence, the prophet Isaiah cries, "Woe is me! I am undone!" and charged with a confounding message of coming judgment and destruction. Fr. Timothy Lowe, in a study of Isaiah 6, suggests it's time to sober up in the mids…

1
Sacrifices Pleasing to God 19:49

1+ y ago19:49

19:49

Leaders make sacrifices everyday, putting aside their interests for the sake of serving others. Fr. Jeremy Davis, author of Welcoming Gifts: Sacrifice in the Bible and Christian Life suggests that the fullness of sacrifice isn't realized in loss and suffering, but in joy, hospitality, and faithful relationship. Christ demonstrates how to move beyon…

1
Effective Parish Assessment Program Part 2 2:21:21

1+ y ago2:21:21

2:21:21

In Part 2 of a two-part show, Bill and colleagues Nick Chakos, Steve Tibbs, and Dr. Mitch Owens continue their exploration of the 6 Pillars and 30 Building Blocks of effective and healthy parishes, and how the Effective Parish Assessment works to provide invaluable information to Orthodox Christian parishes…

1
Effective Parish Assessment Program Part 1 2:07:28

1+ y ago2:07:28

2:07:28

Doctors know the tests to administer to assess our personal health. Financial planners know how to assess our financial health. However, our parishes lack similar empirical and validated tools to help them.After over 20 years of working with over 500 Orthodox Christian parishes and completing strategic plans that cover over 26% of Orthodox Christia…

1
Just the Crumbs 17:29

1+ y ago17:29

17:29

We may think the Canaanite woman offers a leadership example of persistence and humility, content with the crumbs that fall from the Master's table. But the lesson is far beyond successful negotiation. As an outsider, the Canaanite is like a dog compared to those who feast at the Master's table within the religious community. Jesus honors her great…

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