Conversations with Father Greg: Recent Episodes
Fr Greg Fiennes-Clinton
Today we consider how easy it can be for something to get "lost in translation" and how this might relate to Jesus' teaching about a growing alternate reality. (Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52)
Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Mary Magdalene, whose feast day normally falls on July 22nd, but we transferred it to the Sunday before ... just so we wouldn't miss out.
Our primary scripture reading, for today is taken from John 20:1-3, 11-18.
Today, we pause to consider how 2 monks and a young woman can help us understand what the Apostle Paul teaches about God, the law, and our freedom. (Romans 8:1-11)
Today we pause to consider how we respond when the task seems overwhelming or the path seems unclear. (Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67)
Today we pause to consider the concept of hospitality. Since the earliest of Biblical times, God encouraged faithful people to show hospitality to friend, stranger, and even foe alike. (Matthew 10:40-42)
When was the last time that you got lost?
I remember one road trip that a friend and I took about 10 years ago. A “slight navigational error” added about 200 miles and several hours to our journey. In comparison that seemed a lot more like “getting lost”. While it was disorienting, and more than a little annoying, we were able to recover once we realised our mistake. Realising our mistake, however, was the key ingredient to a course correction.
Today, we pause to consider what it means when we need to make course corrections in our relationships. (Romans 6:1b-11)
Today, we hear some of Jesus teaching about the importance of putting our faith into action. (Matthew 9:35—10:8)
Have you ever found yourself at a turning point, in life? Sometimes life changing things can come in the form of easy to spot, big, decisions and at other times they can seem relatively small yet still have long standing implications. Today, we pause to consider some of these. (Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26)
Have you ever considered the things that inform how you interact with the world? Things like our family history, our language, where we are from, our economic status, and our gender all affect the way that we see the world. When we encounter someone who does not share our perspective, we have the opportunity to come to a deeper understanding of another how that person got to where they are. Come and take a listen. (2 Corinthians 13:11-13)
Have you ever considered how certain people, or groups of people, say goodbye? Is it a long process of "several good-bye's" as you make your way toward the door or do you quietly slip out without much ado? Today, we examine what many call "Jesus Farewell Discourse" in which he prepares his followers for his own return to heaven. (John 17:1-11)
Have you ever tried to have a conversation with someone, only to discover that you were not really connecting with each other, despite your best efforts?
Today we stop to consider what it takes to communicate effectively in our changing world. (Acts 17:22-31)
Have you ever listened to the news, or read the paper, and imagined how much better the world could be? Today, we consider the important role that having a dream, or vision, for the future plays not only in outlives, but in the lives of those around us. Come and take a listen. (Acts 7:55-60)
When I was a boy, seeing my first shooting star taught me that things are not always as they appear. Today, we find that same concept in some of Jesus teaching. Come and take a listen. (John 10:1-10)
Would you consider yourself to be a controversial person?n How often do you say, or do, things that other people find provocative or debateable? The answer to this question could be very subjective.
There are times when it might be okay … or maybe even a good thing … to be a little controversial as long as we do it with care, and without hurting someone else.
Today, we get a glimpse of Jesus participating in what could have been a very controversial conversation, with two of his followers. Come and take a listen. (Luke 24:13-35)
Have you ever heard the saying that a person “can’t see the forest for the trees”? It’s meant to describe someone who is so focussed on the details that they can’t see the big picture. Today, we consider a story about a man who had some doubts, how he was able to set them aside, and what that may mean for us, today. (John 20:19-31)
As we begin to think about Easter, this year, I’d like to take a moment to ask everyone a question. What are your 3 favourite things about Easter?Like many holidays, Easter holds different memories and traditions for different people. What are some of yours?
As the years go by, our traditions tend to inform our expectations. Today we stop to consider some of our own expectations about Easter, and maybe be a little surprised along the way. (Matthew 28.1–10)
Join us as we commemorate what is arguably the most somber day in the Christian Calendar - Good Friday. A note to listeners that our Scripture reading describes Jesus' arrest, trial, and subsequent crucifixion. Some listeners may find the content disturbing. (John 18:1-19:42)
Today Christians around the world mark something called Maundy Thursday. The term Maundy Thursday comes from the Latin word Mandatum – which means commandment, or rule. Each year, during Holy Week, we recall some of the last instructions that Jesus gave his disciples. (John 13:1-17, 31b-35)
A friend recently sent me a cartoon whose caption read “I’m pretty confident that my last words will be … it seemed like a good idea at the time.” Today we consider some of our own choices, both the good and those that are less than ideal. We also consider what Scripture has to say about making some positive changes to our habit. (Romans 8:6-11)
Have you ever heard the expression "Don't judge a book by its cover?" Today, we consider what it means in the context of our faith. (1 Samuel 16:1-13 and John 9:1-41).
Have you ever been through "a dry spell",or felt as though you were going through a particularly challenging time? It's okay - even Jesus did. Let's talk about it. (Exodus 17:1-7)
Today, we hear from the Rt. Rev. Andrew Asbil, Diocesan Bishop of Toronto, during his Episcopal Visit to Christ Church Kettleby.
(Genesis 12:1-4a and John 3:1-17)
We’ve been away for a while , but we’re back, and hoping to reconnect. In this episode we take time to consider cookies, wolves, and the impact of our choices on ourselves, on others, and on the world. (Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-7)
If time and money were no obstacle, how would you like to spend your time? When I’m passionate about something I spend a fair bit of time either thinking about it or making time to do it whenever I can. What do our words, and our actions say about the things that we're passionate about? (Romans 10.8b–13)
Today we gather, quietly, considering the aroma of pancakes, sausages, and our journey toward Easter. (
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21)
Come and listen to a story about about a monkey, a peanut, and healthy boundaries. (Luke 6:27-38)
Have you ever heard the joke that starts off by asking “How many Church folks does it take to change a lightbulb?”
It’s an old joke that pokes fun at those who are resistant to change. Come and listen as we think about how our faith encourages us to be adaptive. (1 Corinthians 15:1-11)
Come and listen as we consider the Winter Solstice, sunlight, and Jesus going to the temple with his folks. (Luke 2:22-40)
This week we take a few minutes to consider how the concept of individual strengths and weaknesses. How do they benefit us, and those in our communities.(1 Corinthians 12:12-31)
How do you feel about gift giving? Have you ever received a gift that you don't know what to do with? Come and take a listen as we consider the gifts that we have been given. (1 Corinthians 12:1-11)
How do you feel about surprises? Some people love 'em, some people hate 'em. Today we take some time to think about being surprised by God. Come and take a listen. (Acts 8:14-17)
The first Sunday in the Season of Advent marks the beginning of a new liturgical year, in which we watch, wait, and prepare to celebrate the birth of the Christ child. Please join us we begin this journey together. (1 Thessalonians 3:9-13)
What do the sci-fi characters George Taylor, Nova, and the Temple in Jerusalem have to teach us about the Christian faith? Come and take a listen. (Mark 13:1-8)
I am not much of a golfer, but I know enough to know that, like many things in life, golf is a game of degrees. Being off by a couple of degrees can mean the difference of a few inches or several feet (if not yards). It’s a reminder that sometimes small things can have a big impact. Come and listen to what Jesus’ had to say about how this concept impacts many aspects of our lives. (Mark 12:38-44)
Today we celebrate the Feast of All Saints Day in which we consider the legacy of faith that we have received from those who have gone before. (John 11:32-44)
Have you ever heard of going nose blind? It refers to the idea that familiarity can lead to blind spots in life. Today we chat about learning see the familiar with fresh eyes. (Mark 10:46-52)
Today we consider a story in which two of Jesus’ closest friends really misread “the room”. The story serves as a reminder that sometimes things don’t alway go as planned, and some times that’s really okay. Come and take a listen. (Mark 10:35-45)
What do the TV Show characters Sam Malone, Cliff Craven, and Norm Peterson have to teach us not only about Thanksgiving but also about the Christian faith. Come and take a listen. (Luke 17:11–19)
Roughly 20 years ago, an ad campaign asked viewers “What’s in YOUR wallet?” Join us today, as we pause to consider issues of identity and purpose. (Hebrews 1: 1-4, 2:5-12)
Have you ever seen those sweet little angelic creatures on greeting cards? Maybe a Cupid? How about a fellow named Clarence from a 1940's Christmas movie? Our culture has a fair bit to say about angels, but how does it compare to what Scripture say and how does that affect us? (Revelation 12:7-12)
How do Star Trek, the Cold War, and Jesus help us to understand the right use of power and what in means to be genuinely “great”. (Mark 9:30-37)
Ever since I was a boy, I’ve always found it hard to resist a punch line. A good joke can make people laugh, it can make people happy, lighten the mood and lift people’s spirits - but humour can also be very subjective. What might make one person laugh might offend another. Join us today as we explore the pitfalls of communication. (James 3:1-12)
How would you describe your spiritual life? Some people would recoil at the question. Others would say that it's something personal and private? Others take pride in it being something that's out in the open that everyone knows about. Today, we consider what scripture has to say? (James 2:1-10, 14-17)
This week we pick up where we left, off last week, and consider if we can experience redemption. Is it possible to come back from a scandal and, if so, how.
Listener’s Note: Today’s homily is the 2nd in a 2-part series and is meant to be heard in tandem with the homily for Sunday, July 29th, 2024. (2 Samuel 11:26-12:13a)
Newsreels and tabloids are often full of scandal, yet drama has been with us for millennia. Today, we consider how one of Israel’s most famous kings became embroiled in scandal. Come and take a listen.
Listener’s Note: Today’s homily is the 1st in a 2-part series and is meant to be heard in tandem with the homily for Sunday, August 4th, 2024. (2 Samuel 11:1-15)
Have you ever considered the things that you inherit from your family? Things like humour, athleticism, or a skill for languages? How about what you learn from those who function as role models in life? Today, we pause to consider what we can learn from someone who was once dubbed “the apostle to the apostles”. Come and take a listen. (John 20:1-3, 11-18)
Today we give some thought not only to what we say but to how we say it. What can we learn from Biblical examples and from our own lived experience. (Mark 6:14-29)
Join us as we consider those to whom we attribute authority, and how we respond when our world view is challenged by those claiming to have authority. (Mark 6:1-13)
In today's episode we consider what we can learn about our faith when art and architecture are ravaged by a tragic fire. If you would like to financially support the people of St. Anne’s Gladstone, please visit their website at https://www.saintanne.ca/church-fire-updates. (For the text of today’s scripture reading please see 2 Corinthians 8:7-15)
Sometimes a simple task can have unexpected implications. Come and listen as we consider how this is true in our daily lives, and also in our faith lives. (1 Samuel 17:32-49)
Join us today as we consider mustard, weeds, gardens and how they might help us understand some of Jesus’ teaching. (Mark 4:26-34)
How my dog and a possum helped me understand Paul’s teaching about looking beyond the surface to the deeper things in life. (2 Corinthians 4:13- 5:1)
What do characters like Elektra, Gambit, Dr Strange, The Shadow and Storm have to do with the Christian faith? Come and take a listen to find out. (John 3:1-17)
Today we celebrate Pentecost Sunday - often considered the Birthday of the Christian Church. There’s an old saying about parenthood that the days are long, but the years are short. It serves as a reminder that when children come into our lives, we are given a front row seat to watching a whole new person, and a whole new generation being born and eventually grow into maturity. Come and take a listen as we consider what it means to grow in maturity in the Christian faith. (Acts 2:1-21)
Whether it’s my dog clanging her empty bowl, an amber light on my car dashboard, some messages a more persistent than others. Come join us as we consider one of those persistent messages found in our faith. (1 John 3:16-24)
A splash of cold water, a firm handshake or the embrace of a loved one are all things help anchor us in reality. Come and take a listen as we consider the implications of this kind of experience. (Luke 24:36b-48)
What does an old photo album, my uncle’s Buick LeSabre, and Jesus have in common? Come, listen, and find out. (John 20:19-31)
Leprechauns, clover, and pots of gold are all symbols St Patrick’s Day. Join us as we take a closer look at this cultural phenomenon. (John 12:20-33)
Oil paints, black and white photography, and football fans. Come and check out what these all have to do with redemption. (John 3:14-21)
What do a lunch line, a bad pun, and some relationship advice have in common? Come and take a listen to find out. (Exodus 20:1-17)
Today we chat about heresy, Peter, Jesus, and new beginnings. Come and take a listen. (Mark 8:31-38)
Join us today as we talk about wild animals, angels ... and a little bit of Jesus. (Mark 1:9-15)
Today we encounter one of my favourite characters in the Bible. Kids meet him on Sunday School felt boards, he can be read as a caricature, and he can profoundly challenge us to re-examine how we interact with others. Come and take a listen. (Jonah 3:1-5, 10)
Have I ever told you about how I travelled back in time to meet an old, nearly blind, priest and a young boy who would become a prophet … all from the comfort of my own bed? Come and take a listen. (1 Samuel 3:1-10)
Happy New Year! In the first episode for a new calendar year we consider what some familiar stories tell us about ourselves and God. (Mark 1:4-11)
Comedian, actor, & film maker, Woody Allen is often quoted as saying that 80% of life is just showing up. Long before Woody Allen said it God did it let’s consider what that means to you and I today. (John 1:1-14 )
Raptors, sheep, court side seats and distant fields … come and take a listen to what these things have in common. (Luke 2.1–14, (15–20))
What are some of your favourite traditions around Christmas? How did they come to have the significance for you that they do join us today as we consider these things and more. (Luke 1:26-38 )
What do John the Baptist and Roger Daltrey have in common? Come take a listen and find out! (John 1.6–8,19–28)
Join us today as we talk about razors, roadblocks, and a little bit of Jesus. Come and take a listen. (Mark 1.1–8)
Today we begin a new liturgical year by thinking about architecture, weather forecasts, and fig trees. (Mark 13:24-37 and 1 Corinthians 1:3-9)
What do star fish, a police cruiser, and sheep have in common? Come and take a listen. (Ezekiel 34:11-16, 16-20)
What do my auntie, an Excel spreadsheet, and Jesus have in common? Come and take a listen to find out. (Matthew 25:14-30)
What does a walk with the dog, a snow blower, and an oil lamp have in common? Come and find out. (Matthew 25:1-13)
Today we commemorate Remembrance, recalling those men and women who courageously sacrificed for freedom and peace around the world. We also consider some of Jesus’ teaching around genuine, authentic leadership models. (Matthew 23:1-12 and 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13).
Today we consider how hockey, comic books, and science fiction characters can help inspire our faith all while helping us celebrate All Saints Day. (Matthew 5:1-12)
Politics, religion, and passion … oh my! Come check out a conversation that would probably scandalise my Grandma. (Matthew 22:15-22)
Today we consider what a table grace, that I learned as a child, has taught me about relationships and community. Come and take a listen. (Matthew 22:1-14)
Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Join us as we take time to consider all that we have to be thankful for, but also consider the variety of things that we can cultivate in our own lives. (2 Corinthians 9:6–15)
What do a doctor’s lab coat, a police officer’s badge, and a judge’s gavel have in common? Come and listen to find out. (Matthew 21:23-32)
Have you ever heard the expression “equal pay for equal work”. Our gospel reading for today invites us to consider things from a different perspective. Come and take a listen. ( Matthew 20:1-16)
Did you hear the joke about the Anglican priest, the Presbyterian minister, and the Lutheran pastor who walked into a barbershop? How about this one … do you know how many Anglicans does it take to change a lightbulb? Today, we consider what we are meant to do about some of the differences that can divide us. (Romans 14:1-12)
This week we hear from both the Apostle Paul and Jesus as they double down with more advice on how to respond when relationships get tough. (Romans 13:8-14 and Matthew 18:15-20).
Have you ever met someone who gets under your skin? The Apostle Paul teaches us a trick to “heap coals on their heads”. Have a listen to find out more. (Romans 12:9-21)
I’ve heard it said that Edison tried 1,000 prototypes before he achieved a marketable light bulb. Even then ... we've moved on to CFL's and now LED lights! Come take a listen as we consider how we can apply this model to our faith lives! (Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52)
How often do you have to weed your garden? Do you have any tricks to stop the weeds from coming back? Today, we consider the weeds that tend to crowd our spiritual lives, and what we ought to do about it. (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43)
Today we have a chat about grain, gardens and God. If you’ve ever tried to keep anything from a potted plant to a garden alive, you may want to take a listen. (Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23)
Join us today as we hear the confessions of a real life, self-proclaimed quitter and consider how some of the life decisions that we each make on a day to day basis.(Romans 7:15-25a)
Happy Canada Day to our Canadian listeners and happy 4th of July to our American neighbours. In a week when words like freedom and liberty abound we hear the Apostle Paul write about being a slave. Where do we spend our free time? What kinds of things do we invest ourselves in? Let’s chat. (Romans 6:12-23)
How does a RUSH song about teenage summers help us understand what we read about Jesus, in the Gospels? Come and listen as we consider coping with the controversies of life. (Matthew 10:24-39)
Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming and missed your exit in the highway? Have you ever been distracted by “click bait” on your computer, and wound up wasting time midway through your day? Today we take some time to refocus and consider how to “keep the main thing the main thing”. (Matthew 9:35—10:8)
Remember what it felt like to be quarantined during the early days of the COVID pandemic? Today, we consider what Jesus had to say about another type of quarantine, the importance of helping those who are ill, and about building a sense of community. (Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26)
How do you celebrate birthdays? Gift giving? Time with family and friends? Maybe taking stock with a little introspection? We consider these questions as we celebrate the birth of the Christian Church. (Acts 2:1-21)
Have you ever given much thought to your communication style, and the importance of communication in relationships? How about your communication with God? If you were to talk to God, today, what would it sound like? Let’s think about it for a moment. (John 17:1-11)
Have you ever walked away from a conversation, and then thought “If that ever happens again, I’ll know exactly what to say!!!” Come and join us as we talk about it. (1 Peter 3:13-22 )
Join us as we consider the importance of relationship, getting good directions, and how our destination informs our direction. (John 14:1-14)
Today we consider how 40 year old ad campaigns and a story about sheep help us understand what it means to follow God. Come and take a listen. (John 10:1-10)
Today we explore one of my favourite New Testament stories about two friends, who are surprised by God while out for a walk. (Luke 24:13-35)
A small gathering of friends is interrupted by an unexpected guest. The ensuing confusion welcomes us to consider out questions of faith and our search for meaning. Come and take a listen. (John 20:19-31)
Today, millions of people around the world are celebrating Easter – the crown jewel of the Christian calendar. Join us as we celebrate the invitation of Easter. (Matthew 28.1–10)
Join us as we commemorate one of the most solemn days in the Christian calendar. (John 18:1-19:42 )
Maundy Thursday
Join us as we recall Jesus’ last meal with his closest friends. (John 13:1-17, 31b-35)
Today we begin commemorating Holy Week by recalling Jesus’ final ride into Jerusalem. Join us as we journey with Him. (Matthew 21:1-11 and Matthew 27:11-54)
Today things like movie trailers and a Monty Python sketch help us examine our expectations around God, our faith, and ourselves. (John 11:1-45)
What do you like to read in your spare time? Fiction? History? Maybe a little romance? Today we consider how different types of literature help us understand Jesus teachings and apply them to our modern lives. (John 9:1-41)
What do a blackout, a well, and glass of water have in common? And how do they help us understand Jesus? Come and take a listen. (John 4:5-42)
In this episode we listen in on a clandestine conversation between Jesus and an inquisitive religious leader named Nicodemus. Come and take a listen. (John 3.1–17)
Today we think about what our doctor’s office, a rock and a loaf of bread tell us about who Jesus is and about who we are called to be. Come and take a listen. (Matthew 4:1-11)
Pancakes, sausages, and ashes … oh my! In today’s homily, as we begin the season of Lent, we consider what it means to find life among the Ashes of Ash Wednesday. (Psalm 103:8-18)
Today we spend some time thinking about frisbees, tennis balls, mountains, and all the other things that offer us a new perspective on life, relationships, and God. Come and take a listen. (Matthew 17:1-9)
Have you ever been “ghosted”? It happens more often than you think - even in Church. We talk about that, and more in this episode of Conversations with Father Greg. (Matthew 5:21-37)
Today we consider bare feet at night, a dog’s squeaky toy, and one of Jesus’ best documented teachings. Come take a listen. (Matthew 5:13-20)
Today we think about some big questions. What do you aspire to? What kind of place do you want to leave for future generations? How can we be agents of change in our communities and in our world? (Matthew 5:1-12)
Some people bring joy into our lives, while there are others who we struggle to get along with. While we will never get along with everyone, as people of faith how do we respond to the difficult people in life? Come and take a listen. (1 Corinthians 1:10-18)
We are surrounded by symbols - images that communicate profound meaning without using words. Learning to understand their message adds texture and depth to the way that we understand the world around us. Today we consider one of those symbols and how it draws us deeper into the story of Jesus. Come and take a listen. (John 1:29-42)
What do John the Baptist, Jesus, and a flashlight have in common? Come and take a listen as we talk about it. (Matthew 3:13-17)
The Christmas story is both timeless and immediately present to us. Join us as we celebrate the miracle of Christmas!! (Luke 2:1-14)
Have you ever considered what crocuses and Christmas have to do with each other? Come and take a listen, and find out. (Matthew 1:18-25)
Things don’t always work out the way we expect. Figuring out how to respond can be tough. Let’s talk. (Matthew 11:2-11)
Have you ever had to clean a wound before applying a bandaid? It’s not fun and sometimes it can really sting but it’s an important part of the healing process. Today we talk about this kind of process in our spiritual lives. (Matthew 3:1-12)
Have you started to get ready yet? What do you most look forward to, at Christmas? Today we hear a call to wake up and be attentive, looking forward to what God is doing in the world and in our midst. (Romans 13:11-14 and Matthew 24:36-44)
Join us as we celebrate Feast of the Reign of Christ - the last Sunday in the liturgical year. (Colossians 1:11-20 and Luke 23:33-43)
Today we listen in as Jesus challenges his followers about how their faith would be practised in the future, and we consider what that might hold for us today. (Luke 21:5-19)
If you’ve ever had a difference of opinion about faith, or religion, you might want to check out this episode. (Luke 20:27-38)
What does Neo, from The Matrix have in common with Jesus, from Nazareth? Join us as we anticipate the Feast of All Saints day, and explore this unexpected connection. (Luke 6:20-31)
Today we consider things like a healthy sense of competition and deeper concepts of justice and mercy. Come and take a listen. (Luke 18:9-14)
Do you have someone in your life who would consider a role model? What can we learn from each other, and what examples do we off to others. Let’s chat about it. (Luke 18:1-8)
Today, we celebrate Thanksgiving in Canada. We take time to consider those things that give us energy, fuel our imagination, give us satisfaction, and bring us utter happiness? (2 Corinthians 9:6-15)
Join us today as we consider the kinds of things that we inherit from others, and how we might find a practical use for them in our daily lives. (2 Timothy 1:1-14)
What do Gollum, Captain Ahab and the Apostle Paul have in common? Come and take a listen to find out. (1 Timothy 6:6-19)
They call it nostalgia. Have you ever taken a “walk down memory lane”? How about a slow drive past your childhood home? Grabbed a shake from the burger joint you used to hang out at when you were a kid? Come and listen while we spend a little time thinking about “the good old days”. (Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 and Luke 16:1-13)
Have you ever gotten lost? Despite our best intentions, sometimes we find ourselves in unfamiliar surroundings. But what happens if you’ve wandered off your route, and haven’t realised it yet? Come and take a listen as we discuss some of these questions. (1 Timothy 1:12-17 and Luke 15:1-10)
Have you ever walked into a room and joined a conversation, midway through? Without context, sometimes it takes a minute or two to catch up. We have a fine example of that with today’s Gospel reading. Come and take a listen. (Luke 14:25-33)
Have you ever considered what trading cards, chewing gum, and road hockey have to do with the Christian Fatih? Come take a listen, and let’s talk. (Hebrews 11:29-12:2)
What do people like Nelson Mandela and Jesus have to say about courage and faith in uncertain times? Come and take a listen to find out. (Luke 12:32-40)
Robbie Burns once wrote that “the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry”. And yet, wisdom encourages us to avoid being wasteful, to plan for the future, and to be responsible with the resources at our disposal. Join us as we consider how to find a balance. (Luke 12:13-21)
What does it mean to be “seen” by another person? When was the lsat time that you felt s though someone truly understood you and your perspective? The story of St Mary Magdalene might give you something to consider. Come and take a listen. (John 20:1-3, 11-18)
Today we consider lessons that I learned in my friend’s kitchen, and a Bible story about two sisters figuring out how to share the chores list. (Luke 10:38-42)
What do Mr Rogers, Jesus, and the Good Samaritan have to do with each other? Join us as we think about it, for a few minutes. (Luke 10:25-37)
What can charcoal barbecues, Christmas pudding, and tinfoil teach us about the concept of legacy? More importantly, what does the Christian faith have to say about this idea of legacy and how we might influence others? (Luke 10:1-11, 16-20)
Are you a “people watcher”? Do you have any family or friends whose behaviour seems a little strange? How do we respond when we see things differently from others, and when differences occur in our relationships? Let’s think about it together. (Galatians 5:1, 13-25)
Have you ever heard the joke that “no good deed goes unpunished”? Today we listen in as Jesus heals a man who had made his home in a cemetery and. As a reward for his troubles, Jesus gets driven out of town. (Luke 8:26-39)
What does a walk with the dog, a game of Scrabble, and the Doctrine of the Trinity have in common? Come and take a listen. (John 16:12-15)
Today we celebrate what is often considered to the Birthday of the Church. In this episode we consider the kinds of gifts we might expect to receive for our collective birthday. (John 14:8-17)
Today we talk about french onion soup, a quiet walk along a riverside, and what to do when things don’t go the way you expect them too. Come and take a lesson. (Acts 16:9-15)
This week we consider another transformative moment - not just in the life of one person - but a watershed event in the life of an entire faith. Join us as we consider an event that changed the trajectory of an entire faith system. (Acts 11:1-18)
There are moments in life that transform the way that we see and engage with the world around us. Today we consider lady named Tabitha who had a life changing encounter with one of Jesus’ disciples, named Peter. It’s a story that invites us to consider how we interact with the world around us. (Acts 9:36-43)
Today we consider two people who may have had a profound impact on the 1st generation of the Christian Church. One wrote over 25% of the New Testament and thousands of Christians consider the other to have been the first Pope. Despite their accomplishments they were far from perfect. Join us as we consider how they can impact our lives, thousands of years later. (Acts 9:1-6 and John 21:1-19)
Today we listen in as the newly resurrected Jesus appears to some of his closest friends and we consider what it means to have trust - in God and in other people.
(Our Gospel reading also contains the story of the one whom we often call “Doubting Thomas”. If you would like to hear more about Thomas, please check out the podcast episode for Sunday, April 11th, 2021. (John 20:19-31 )
Easter Sunday 2022
How do you react to surprises? Some people enjoy them better than others - and let’s face it - it depends on the kind of surprise. Today as we think Easter we consider things like surprises, our own expectations, and how we respond when those two things don’t always line up. (Luke 24:1-12)
A caution to our listeners: Today’s Bible reading comes from John’s gospel and describes Jesus’ last hours, and ultimately his crucifixion.
Quite frankly, as someone familiar with the story, i find it disturbing and often hard to listen to. It raises some difficult questions that are best asked in conversation - with the text, with history, and with each other. (John 18:1-19:42 )
If you knew you were about to have your last meal, who would you want to share it with? Tonight we consider extending an invitation to a shared meal with friends and what it means to genuinely love another person.(John 13.1–17, 31b–35)
Join us for Palm Sunday which marks the beginning of what many consider to be the holiest season in the Christian Calendar - Holy Week. Let’s begin our journey toward Easter with a reading from Luke’s Gospel. (Luke 19:28-40)
Have you ever considered how powerful our sense of smell is? What do you think of when you smell fresh pine needles? What memories come flooding back when you smell fresh gingerbread cookies or apple pie?
Today we consider a story in which Jesus’ friend Mary anointed his feet with expensive perfume and how this story might our relationships, centuries later.
(John 12:1-8)
Have you ever said or done something that you wish you could take back? How about something that seemed like a good idea at the time … but turned out to be something else all together. Today we consider one of Jesus’ most famous teachings about what it means to come back from some bad decisions, and return home. (Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32)
History is pockmarked with wars, violence, and even natural disasters. Today we consider Jesus’ response, and what we might learn from that response in our time. (Luke 13:1-9 )
Have you ever had a role model? Who would you choose and why? A good role model can help set a good example and to point out some of life’s pitfalls. Join us today as we talk about role models and avoiding those things that distract us from the important things in life. (Philippians 3:17-4:1)
As a boy, I remember cartoons that showed a devil on one shoulder and an angel on the other as a way of depicting temptation. By very definition, if something is tempting than it must be something that we personally find attractive or appealing. Today, we talk about temptation, and how we move forward when we give in. Come and take a listen. (Luke 4:1-13)
Today we are invited to begin a spiritual journey … toward the celebration of Easter. Like any journey, knowing our starting point is important - but it’s only the beginning and not the whole story. Come and take a listen. (Joel 2:1-2, 12-17)
In the Bible, amazing things happen on mountain tops. Noah, Abraham and his son Isaac, Moses, and Elijah all had significant encounters with God on mountain tops. Today we consider what happens when we come down from the mountain. (Luke 9:28-36)
Hopefully we’ve all experienced healthy relationships that are nourishing and life giving. But what do we do with those relationships that aren’t so nourishing? How do we deal with those people who get under our skin and drive us to distraction? Today we consider some pro tips from Jesus. (Luke 6:27-38)
Not too long ago, I came across a rare photo of Abraham Lincoln which bore the caption “Don’t believe everything that you read on the internet” signed Abraham Lincoln. Today we consider some Biblical teaching that may not be exactly as they appear on the surface. Come and take a listen. (Luke 6:17-26)
In this episode we introduce a new feature called "Questions From the Curious". We take some time to answer a few questions about the faith. If you have questions that you would like answered, in a future episode, email me at ImFatherGreg@gmail.com
The month of February begins in just a few days. For many, our attention will turn to thoughts of love. Today we consider whether that idea of love has anything to do with Church. (1 Corinthians 13:1-13)
This week we consider the importance of community and what it means to belong. Do these thing occur as a coincidence or are they something more? (1 Corinthians 12:12-31a)
Epiphany usually brings images of Wise Men bringing gifts tot Jesus. As the Season of Epiphany continues, we consider the gifts that God gives to us. (1 Corinthians 12:1-11)
How does the story of Jesus’ baptism, and his relationship with his cousin John, help us figure out our own faith story, today? Come and take a listen. (Luke 3:15-17, 21-22)
Wise men, camels, kings and incense come together to help us celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany (which officially falls on January 6th). (Matthew 2:1-12)
When you were little, did you ever hear the saying that “Children should be seen and not heard”? Today, we have two stories from the Bible that say this is not the case! In this episode we consider what children can teach us about God. (1 Samuel 2.18–20, 26 and Luke 2.41–52)
Merry Christmas!!! In this episode, we’re invited to join the shepherds, and the rest of creation and celebrate the mystery of God’s incarnation. (Luke 2:1-14)
Today we talk about gift giving, pregnant cousins, and an evening stroll in a garden. Okay … and a little bit about Jesus too. 😊 Come and take a listen. (Luke 1:39-45)
When you meet a person, for the first time, how do you introduce yourself? If you could only convey three facts about yourself, other than your name, what would those three facts be? In this episode, we consider these questions and others. Come take a listen. (Luke 3:7-18)
They say he lives at the North Pole, you may have seen him in the mall, and he's been in dozens of movies, but do you have you ever heard the original story about Good Ol' St Nick? Come take a listen and if you'd like more info about the original Santa Claus, please check out this link - https://www.stnicholascenter.org/who-is-st-nicholas.
Advent 2c
What do new sidewalks, a man named John, and a 900 year old prophecy have in common? Come and find out! (Luke 3:1-6) (Isaiah 40:3-5)
What’s on your Christmas Wish List? Thinking a little further ahead - what’s on your wish list for the year ahead? Let’s consider it together. (Jeremiah 33:14-16)
Have you ever felt like you had a foot in two different worlds? Put another way - have you ever found yourself at an intersection in life, where you have to make some pretty significant decision? Today we consider just those kinds of things. (John 18:33-37)
In today’s reading, Jesus startles his disciples with some shocking predictions and at lease one of them turned out to be true. Come take a listen as we discuss how they might apply to us. (Mark 13:1-8)
In today’s gospel reading Jesus criticises some religious folks, and praised the generosity of a widow. Come and take a listen and consider what practical application this has in our lives today. (Mark 12:38-44)
What do fireworks, Hallowe’en, and a man named Lazarus have in common? Come, take a listen, and then have a Happy Hallowe'en. (John 11:32-44)
Today, a blind beggar invites us to consider the difference between sight and vision and what that lesson has to do with our lives today. (Mark 10:46-52)
Last week, Canadians celebrated Thanksgiving. Did you notice where people sat at the table? Who was at “the head of the table”? Today, we listen in as two of Jesus’ disciples have a conversation about just that kind of thing … and how Jesus turns “table talk” into a teachable moment. (Mark 10:35-45)
Thanksgiving 2021
What’s your favourite Thanksgiving tradition? Is it the turkey? Time with family? Maybe it’s the cooler weather. Let’s take time to take stock together. (Luke 17:11-19)
Today we read about some religious zealots who try to paint Jesus into a corner. Meanwhile he gives his disciples some insight about the role of children in the realm of God. (Mark 10:2-16)
Long before there were talk shows or self help books in supermarket lines, the Letter of James offered advice on keeping our relationships healthy. How do we respond when our relationships are bruised and broken? How do we repair the damage? Come and take a listen. (James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a)
Have you ever received a text that made you wonder what the person was really trying to say? Has someone ever taken something that you’ve said in a way that you never intended? Today we consider how words can impact both our lives, and the lives of other people. (James 3:1-12)
Faith inspires us to reach beyond where we ever thought possible. Yet, the letter of James encourages us that faith, without works, is dead. This begs us each to ask how we put our faith into practise on daily basis. (James 2:1-10, 14-17)
An old ad jingle used to say that what you wear doesn’t matter … it’s what’s inside that counts. That jingle sounds a lot like something Jesus once said, when he got into an argument with some religious leaders. Come take a listen. (Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23)
Jesus once taught that we are to be like a light, shining in the world. The Apostle Paul invited us to battle against powers of darkness. How do these two invitations apply to our lives today? (Ephesians 6:10-20)
Today a young woman named Mary invites us to consider how we can choose to be faithful, in all aspects of life - both big and small (Luke 1:46-55)
How do Kirk, Spock, McCoy, and the crew of the Enterprise help us understand Jesus and the feeding of the 5,000? Take a listen and find out. (John 6:1-21)
If you could choose 3 role models, today, who would they be? And why would you choose them? What qualities make a person a good role model? • Today, we take time to consider the life and faith of a woman named Mary, from the small town of Magdala, in the region of Galilee, in Israel. (John 20.1–3, 11–18)
What do Jesus and his disciples have to do with an execution at a state dinner? And how does that impact us today? (Mark 6:14-29)
Have you ever had a “homecoming” experience? Was it good, challenging, or maybe both? Today we are invited to consider how we respond when the teachings of our faith challenge the way that we have always understood the world around us (Mark 6:1-13)
A man named Jairus, his daughter, and a woman in a crowd all have powerful encounters with Jesus. Together, these invite us to examine how we respond when the unexpected occurs.
(Mark 5:21-43)
Today we consider mustard as a metaphor for the realm of God and how we help nurture the things of God in the world. (Mark 4:26-34)
What was your favourite playground game as a kid? Listen in as we talk about a couple who played a quick game of Hide and Seek with God. (Genesis 3:8-15)
We listen in as a man named Nicodemus has a night time encounter with Jesus and we consider the value of asking honest questions. (John 3:1-17)
What do you daydream about? How do you see the world around you? How does faith effect your vision? Let’s talk. (Acts 2:1-21)
A homily considering Jesus’ final moments with his friends, and what we can learn about times of transition. (Acts 1:1-11)
When was the last time that God took you by surprise? How do our expectations impact our relationship with God and with others? Let’s talk. (Acts 10:44-48 & John 15:9-17)
Come check out what I learned about the Christian faith while taking a wine tour. (John 15:1-8)
On "Good Shepherd Sunday", a blind man, Jesus, and some honest talk about sheep help us understand the need for a community of faith. Come and take a listen. (John 10:11-18)
In this episode we’ll consider what we learn from Jesus’ appearance to his disciples, after that first Easter morning. Even after the Resurrection, Jesus continued meeting with his friends, and sharing a meal. These stories invite us to consider how we extend hospitality to others even during a pandemic. Is it limited to sharing food together, or can it be expanded to include more? Let’s talk. (Luke 24:36b-48)
As we continue celebrating the Easter Season, we consider a man nicknamed “Doubting Thomas”. This story begs the question about whether our lives are defined by isolated moments, or by the entire trajectory of our lives. (John 20:19-31)
Happy Easter everyone! In this episode we’ll begin by reading the story of the very first Easter morning, found in John’s Gospel and then we’ll hear a homily based on that reading. (John 20:1-18)
Before listening we want to caution our listeners. Today’s Bible reading comes from John’s gospel and describes Jesus’ last hours, and ultimately his crucifixion.
Quite frankly, as someone familiar with the story, i find it disturbing and often hard to listen to. It raises some difficult questions that are best asked in conversation - with the text, with history, and with each other. (John 18 & 19)
Thoughts about a shared meal, clean feet, and vulnerability. Come take a listen. (John 13.1–17, 31b–35)
Cheering crowds, religious festivals, and a man riding a donkey. What Palm Sunday tells about God, Jesus, and ourselves. (Mark 11:1-11)
Old day timers, priorities, and … “hating the life of this world”? Come take a listen. (John 12:20-33)
What do corned beef & cabbage, parades, and pirates have to do with St Patrick's Day? (With thanks to For All the Saints © 2007, General Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada)
What do John 3:16, a moose, and a nighttime visit to Jesus have in common? Come take a listen. (John 3:14-21)
Imagine Jesus overturning tables and chasing people out of the temple with a whip. Those who were there were surprised too!! Come and hear happens. (John 2:13-22)
Some straight talk from Mark’s Gospel inviting us to consider the implications of following Jesus. (Mark 8:31-38)
Road trips, side view mirrors and getting a different perspective. How does our faith inform how we live? (Mark 1:9-15)
Ash Wednesday
An introduction to Ash Wednesday, the Season of Lent, and a reflection on the importance of dessert. (2 Corinthians 5:20b – 6:10)
Feast of the Transfiguration
Have you ever gone on vacation, and wanted to stay there? How about having a “mountain top experience”? Today we talk about finding balance in work, in life, and in our spiritual experience. (Mark 9:2-9)
What can Dave Grohl and the Apostle Paul teach us about being Church during the 21st century? Come and see! (1 Corinthians 9:16-23)
Am I my brother's keeper? Does my personal freedom come with responsibility? In this Episode, we consider Paul's advice to the Christian in Corinth about how our actions may impact the lives of others.
A Homily for Sunday, January 24th, 2021 which is the 3rd Sunday in the Season of Epiphany.
The theme of invitation into relationship with God continues as we focus the on a reading from the prophet Jonah, inviting the citizens of a city called Nineveh into relationship with God.
What do shampoo, advertising from the 1980’s, and a man named Nathanael teach us about our faith?
How the story of the magi encourages us to appreciate the world around and shine Christ’s light into the lives of others.
What does Matthew’s Gospel and the arrival of the Wise Men tell us about religious and political reform? About Jesus’ identity, and how this impacts us, 2,000 years later.
Mary and Joseph take baby Jesus to the temple, in Jerusalem. There they meet Simeon and Anna who make some pretty big predictions about the life Jesus would live and the kind of person that he would become.
As always, we are challenged to consider what that has to do with us, 2,000 years later.
Imagine your perfect Christmas celebration … what does it look like? Whose there with you? What’s the best Christmas gift you’ve ever received? What does Christmas invite us to be and to do? (John 1:1-14)
Merry Christmas! Let’s spend some time celebrating someone who has moved into our neighbourhood! (John 1:1-14)
Today we read about a young woman’s encounter with an angel with a life changing message. Some of that change would be overwhelming, some would bring great sadness, and some would bring her great joy. Come and listen to how it turns out. (Luke 1:26-38)
When you introduce yourself to someone, what are the first three things that you tell them? What do those 3 things say about your sense of identity? What do John the Baptist and Jesus have to say about our sense of identity? Come and see. (John 1:6-9, 19-28)
John the Baptist helps us prepare to celebrate the birth of Jesus, at Christmas. Along the way, we are reminded that Advent is not simply about passively watching and waiting for something to happen … its an invitation to actively seek out ways to participate in the God’s work in the world. (Mark 1:1-8)
A LITTLE BIT ABOUT ME:
My name is Greg Fiennes-Clinton, I’m a husband, a dad, a pet owner. I’m a amateur photographer, a music lover, movie buff, tech junkie and I’m also an Anglican Priest in the Diocese of Toronto.
WHY ANOTHER PODCAST:
In March 2020 the world was rocked by a global pandemic.
Businesses, schools, and places of worship all over the world were forced into lockdown in an effort to protect people from the spread of COVID-19.
For many, these efforts to bring physical safety from disease also brought an overwhelming sense of isolation and loneliness.
People all over the world have been exploring new ways of developing and maintaining relationships, and of sharing the things that are important to us.
This podcast is an attempt to explore ways to overcome isolation and help people to thoughtfully consider the world around us through the lens of faith.
I welcome you to explore the content offered here, which I hope will grow to include homilies, interviews, and other thought provoking and encouraging content.