Saint Pachomius, the founder of Christian communal religious life. Born of pagan parents in the diocese of Sne, Pachomius was a young Copt who knew neither Greek nor Latin. Around the age of 20, he was mobilized into the army. While detained (possibly in Antinoe), he was profoundly impacted by the charitable actions of Christians, who showed love for the sake of God.

This experience sparked a vow: if God delivered him, he would serve humankind all the days of his life. After his military service ended, he received the grace to become a Christian and was baptized in Antinoe. The night of his baptism, he had a significant vision of heavenly dew.

In fulfillment of his vow, he spent the first three years of his Christian life serving surrounding villages, but found this simple social service left him disquieted. Seeking deeper spiritual engagement through the anchoritic life, he became a disciple of the aged ascetic, Apa Palamon.

For seven years, he lived with Palamon, undergoing a period of intense formation marked by hard and exhausting asceticism, including vigils, prayer, Scripture recitation, manual labor, and humble obedience. Palamon taught him the rigorous "measure of monastic life", emphasizing constant prayer and self-denial.

This demanding apprenticeship molded him, leading to a second vision of the dew and keys after four years, which foreshadowed his unique future calling.

Today, we're exploring the book "80 Days Journey with the Desert Fathers," a collection compiled by Palladius Bishop of Helenepolis.

This book presents the excellent deeds and marvellous lives of holy and blessed Fathers and Mothers who chose to live in the desert, embracing a solitary life and striving for a heavenly life. Palladius travelled extensively through cities, villages, caves, and monastic settlements in Egypt, seeking out these spiritual athletes. He shares stories based on what he saw face to face and what he heard from the holy Fathers themselves.

You'll encounter figures like Abba Isidore of Alexandria, a priest and hospital overseer known for his spiritual excellence, mercy, knowledge of Holy Scriptures, and profound contemplative experiences6.... He lived a life of severe self-denial, never washing or eating flesh, yet possessed a sound body6.... His deep desire for paradise even brought him to tears while eating

The book, compiled and edited as a daily read, is presented as an 80-day journey, with each story aiming to illuminate virtues like humility, perseverance, and the profound pursuit of spiritual excellence. It's offered as an indispensable companion for those seeking to understand the Christian monastic tradition and be inspired by the lives of these saints.

Explore the rich spirituality of Coptic priest Fr. Bishoy Kamel, whose life and teachings offer a profound contribution to universal Christian spirituality. This podcast delves into his central theme: the authentic Theology of the Cross (theologia crucis), which was seen as the key to his life and ministry.

Discover how Fr. Bishoy saw the Cross not only in suffering but as the source of light and salvation, transforming all of life's experiences, even confronting illness like cancer. We will explore his deep devotion to the saving and healing cross, his practice and encouragement of the Jesus Prayer, and how his love for the cross enabled him to see the presence of Christ in every person. Learn why his life, embodying "righteous clarity and simplicity", remains a powerful example of living out faith through the "transfigured cross of Christ"

Born Sami Kamel in 1931 in Egypt.

Graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1951 and pursued further studies, earning diplomas in Psychology, Education, and Philosophy, eventually becoming an associate professor at Alexandria University in 1957. He was prepared for an academic life.

In 1959, he was unexpectedly chosen for the priesthood by Pope Kyrillos VI. The Pope handpicked him despite never having met him before.

Given a week to find a wife, he married Angel Bassili with the Pope's blessing. They lived lives of acetic continence.

He served as a priest at the Church of St George in Sporting, Alexandria.

He represented the Coptic Orthodox Church at the World Council of Churches in 1960 and 1965.

In 1969, Pope Kyrillos sent him to the United States of America, where he celebrated the first Divine Liturgy in Los Angeles on November 9, 1969, and helped establish the first church there.

He developed and lived out a profound "Theology of the Cross" (theologia crucis), viewing Christ's suffering as central to understanding God and life.

From 1976 until his death in 1979, he confronted cancer, living his Theology of the Cross intensely through this suffering, offering his severe pain as a prayer.

He was a prolific writer on Scripture, liturgy, and Orthodox spirituality, writing on topics like the Jesus Prayer and translating patristic texts.

He passed away on March 21, 1979, at the age of 47.

His life of faith and service led to the conclusion that he was a saint.

These milestones highlight the significant turning points and key aspects of his life and ministry.

Today we will explore the profound significance of Good Friday. This isn't just another day; it's a pivotal moment in history where we witness the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. We will contemplate on the solemn atmosphere as the church reflects on the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Discover the unique liturgical practices of this day, filled with powerful readings, somber hymns, and the deep meaning behind the ancient rituals. Understand why this seemingly dark day is, in essence, a testament to God's boundless love for humanity, paving the way for the hope of resurrection.

Join us as we contemplate the weight of this day and its enduring impact on our lives.

Step into the powerful events of Holy Thursday, a day the Church holds in profound reverence. Journey with us to the Upper Room as Jesus gathers with His disciples to share the Passover meal, a moment that would forever change the course of history with the institution of Holy Communion. Witness the extraordinary display of humility as the Lord of all washes the feet of His disciples, a profound lesson in service and love that continues to resonate today.

We'll explore how this "Passover Thursday," as Father Bishoy Kamel calls it, foreshadows the ultimate sacrifice. Liturgically, Thursday is a vibrant day, beginning with incense and culminating in the unique liturgy of the blessing of water (Lakan) and a special liturgy commemorating the Last Supper. We'll also touch on the solemn procession recalling the betrayal of Judas.

Wednesday, a day of profound contrasts and simmering tension. While Jesus spends these precious hours with his closest disciples, sharing insights into the second coming and the days to come, the seeds of betrayal are being sown.

Discover the story of a woman anointing Jesus with fragrant oil, a beautiful act of devotion that stands in stark relief against the plotting of those who seek his demise.

We'll explore how the ancient words of a psalm, "His words are softer than ointment but sharper than a sword," Join us to contemplate the light and shadow of Wednesday, a crucial step on the path to the cross.

Tuesday of Holy Week, a day where Jesus' teachings sharpen and the path to the Cross becomes clearer. We'll explore the powerful lesson of the withered fig tree, a symbol of the necessity for spiritual fruit and a warning against hypocrisy.

Discover Jesus' teachings on striving to enter through the narrow gate, emphasizing personal salvation. This episode highlights the rising tensions and Jesus' own pronouncements hinting at His approaching sacrifice.

Tune in to understand why this Tuesday is a vital, though often overshadowed, step in the unfolding drama of Holy Week.