OCF Campus Ministry Podcast: Recent Episodes
Orthodox Christian Fellowship, and Ancient Faith Ministries
In this episode Samuel Dutschmann, College Conference Midwest Student Leader, is joined by author, podcaster, and trauma coach, Nicole Roccas. They discuss despondency in the life of college students. Nicole shares insights from her work and how students might work through these restless moments of our lives.
In this episode Samuel Dutschmann, College Conference Midwest Student Leader, is joined by author, podcaster, and trauma coach, Nicole Roccas. They discuss despondency in the life of college students. Nicole shares insights from her work and how students might work through these restless moments of our lives.
In her final episode as OCF’s Podcast Student Leader, Danielle was joined with Dn. Michael Hyatt. In their conversation about starting a new chapter, they discuss themes of work-life balance, boundaries, priorities, and authenticity. Congratulations to the Class of 2022!
In this episode, Danielle and Jeanine dive into understanding Christ-centered relationships. They discuss where to find these relationships, their benefits, and why it’s helpful to maintain them with other young adults
On this week's episode, Danielle learns more about the Real Break experiences of two members of the OCF Student Leadership Board, Evan Roussey and Elias Anderson. They recount where they went, the communities they both developed and were introduced to, as well as lessons that they took away from their trips
In this episode, Danielle continues her conversation from last week with six of her fellow CrossRoaders. From this 10 day institute, they discuss how CrossRoad opened up a new means of wrestling with deep questions and how this new skill has affected them in their lives post-CrossRoad.
In Part 1 of this two part series, Danielle and her fellow CrossRoaders reflect on who they were as Orthodox Christian high school students four years ago, their mindset going into CrossRoad, and what they gained from their CrossRoad experience. CrossRoad is a ten-day academic summer institute that prepares high school juniors and seniors to make big life decisions and invites them to connect with the Orthodox Christian theological and spiritual tradition in a deep and meaningful way.
In the final episode of the six-week series, Danielle and Fr. Timothy examine the Triumph of Orthodoxy through iconography, and conclude the series with some Lenten advice for young adults.
In this episode, Danielle and Fr. Timothy discuss the liberation found in humbly forgiving ourselves and others before Christ.
In this episode, Danielle and Fr. Timothy explore how Judgement can bring us closer to Christ as we embark on journey towards Lent
In this episode, Danielle and Fr. Timothy continue on the Pre-Lenten journey by drawing connections between our repentance and God’s compassion and love for mankind.
In this episode, Danielle and Fr. Timothy get deep into understanding humility and its importance for our Lenten journey.
In today’s episode, Danielle and Fr. Timothy discuss the stories of the Canaanite Women and Zacchaeus. They talk about great faith and begin to elaborate on a main theme of lent: humility.
In this episode, Danielle talks about her intentions to carry out her "word of the year".
In this episode, Danielle speaks about St. Morwenna with Laura Jansson, contributor to the book Seven Holy Women. They discuss the significance of prayer, vulnerability, and struggle within the faith, and how we can apply lessons from St. Morwenna's life to our own Orthodox journey.
How can we see and share love on a college campus? Hear as OCF Student Leadership Board members share their thoughts about love. Danielle brings it all together with a discussion of "the disciple whom Jesus loved", the holy Apostle and Evangelist John.
In this episode, Danielle focuses on The Nativity of the Theotokos (Sept. 8th-21st). She tells the story of the Theotokos's birth, looks at some key text from the day's Orthros service, and even invites her dad to sing a little.
Fr. Brendan Pelphrey and Kassiani discuss Ecumenism and what it means to Orthodox Christians.
Kassiani Mamalakis interviews Caroline Retzios on her OCF Story and journey as an Orthodox Christian.
OCF Podcast Student Leader Kassiani Mamalakis introduces the focus and themes of this year's collection of podcasts geared toward Orthodox Christian college students.
Fr. Brendan and Caroline Mellekas use the lenten period to discuss the importance of fasting.
Fr. Brendan and Caroline Mellekas discuss the hierarchical and diocesan distinctions of the Orthodox Church.
Fr. Brendan and Andja Bjeletich discuss the Orthodox view of Yoga and meditation practices.
Join Andja and Fr. Brendan as they share their experiences with death and discuss what happens to unbaptized babies when they die.
Join Fr. Brendan Pelphrey and Andja Bjeletich as they discuss how to explain the liturgy to people with no prior experience of it—as well as what liturgy means.
Tasya interviews Rachel Sierra and Naim Mekdessi—two students who have been active throughout their college years in OCF's South Region. The three college seniors discuss dealing with chapter elections, what it means to be District Leaders and chapter presidents, how they handle discouragement in OCF work, and more.
Nathan, Maria, and Andrew discuss the relationship between science and our Orthodox Christian faith.
February's All-Stars feature is Quinn Marquardt, the OCF Mountain Student Leader. Tasya and Quinn discuss how taking a leap of faith and getting involved with OCF--both at the chapter level and by joining the Student Leadership Board--has transformed their college experience.
"As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ." What is belief? Tasya and Fr. Brendan discuss the fact that belief is more than recognizing the historical existence of Jesus Christ and His resurrection—the Church Fathers explain to us that it means that we try to be like Him.
This year, the All-Stars series is highlighting students from all over North America—students from each of OCF's nine regions. For the Northwest regional feature, Tasya speaks with the co-presidents of Boise State University's OCF chapter: Mercedes Huse and Kayla Munkres. Mercedes and Kayla explain how they share the work of the Chapter President, give advice to OCF students in leadership positions in their chapter, and share some of their favourite chapter meeting activities.
Nathan, Maria, and Andrew discuss the topic of almsgiving and answer a listener question in the inaugural On the Waves mailbag segment. Listeners are asked to send in questions to podasststudent@ocf.net!
Fr. Brendan Pelphrey returns for the second instalment of Orthodox Apologetics for the 2017-2018 school year. In this episode, Fr. Brendan gives an overview of the history of the Protestant churches. He also answers some questions that Protestants may ask Orthodox college students. If you have any questions for Fr. Brendan, please email Tasya at podcaststudent@ocf.net.
Tasya interviews Michelle Ibrahim, a grad student in theology who recently became the youth director in the same parish where she was raised. Michelle and Tasya talk about the importance of embracing your parish-even when you're a young adult. They discuss the importance of developing strong relationships in the Church, getting involved in the various ministries offered in the Church, but most importantly, maintaining a spiritual life.
"But whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant"- Matthew 20:26
The All-Stars series continues with guest Athena Vlamis, a senior at Kennesaw State University and Georgia District Student Leader for OCF. In this podcast, Tasya and Athena talk about Athena's leadership role in a new Pan-Orthodox initiative, the Connect Conference. The college seniors also discuss servant leadership, using our talents for the glory of God, the role of young adults in the church, the foundation OCF has laid in their lives, the importance of living as an Orthodox in day-to-day life, and more.
OCF Student Podcast Assistant Nathan Jekel is joined by Maria McClatchey and Andrew Abboud to discuss St. Matthew's account of Peter walking on the water and what it means for our Christian lives. Also in this episode, Nathan, Maria, and Andrew give a preview of the topics that they will be discussing on the program throughout the remainder of the academic year and ask listeners to send in questions to podasststudent@ocf.net.
Unsure what to do during your spring break this year? Tasya and OCF Real Break Student Leader Anna Sobchak discuss OCF's alternative spring break trips: Real Break. They consider the importance of these trips in a college student's career, and also discuss fundraising ideas and what's new for Real Break in 2018.
Original guilt, immaculate conception, the Filioque, papal authority: Sometimes it can be difficult to explain the differences between Orthodoxy and Catholicism. OCF Student Media Leader Tasya Lysack and Fr. Brendan Pelphrey will be speaking about other Christian denominations for the next few episodes of Orthodox Apologetics, and today they discuss the answers to common questions our peers might ask us about the differences between Orthodoxy and Catholicism.
For 2017-2018's final OCF podcast, outgoing Student Leadership Board members, Chairman Emma Solak and Media Student Leader Daniel Bein, reflect on their time in college, thinking about how to live as Orthodox Christians on college campuses and what it means to be alive in Jesus Christ.
Fr. Cyprian Sas of All Saints (GOA) in Peoria, IL, leads College Conference Midwest's final session on the process of salvation, discussing how other faiths might view salvation and how we might speak to those faiths.
Fr. Gabriel, priest at St. Mary Magdalene (OCA) in Fenton, MI speaks at College Conference Midwest about how to practically live a sacramental life by dissecting the Church's sacraments and how we draw closer to Christ through them.
Father Panagiotis gives his second College Conference talk about living an Orthodox life and how prayer, fasting, and almsgiving help to form Christians.
Father Panagiotis delivers his first keynote lecture about how the divine services can impact us and how the liturgy relates to our personal evangelism
Fr. Panagiotis begins College Conference Midwest's keynote lectures by asking what "Come and See" even means and the transformation that it asks of us.
Part 2 of Fr. Timothy's talk at College Conference East addresses what our life in Christ can look like when we participate in the Church and how we can begin the discussion of talking about the Christ and His Church.
Before we begin to talk about the physical buildings, we must first address the living stones. In his keynote address at College Conference East, Fr. Timothy Hojnicki asks what visitors will actually see when they come to an Orthodox parish.
Fr. Paul Abernathy of FOCUS speaks at OCF's College Conference East about what it actually means to lead a sacramental life. He asks what the word "sacrament" even means and shares personal stories from his ministry at FOCUS about the love and mercy of God.
Fr. William George joins Dan as they talk about some of the unique challenges Father William encounters, as a spiritual advisor for the OCF chapter of County College of Morris--giving room for others to work, leading discussions, and maintaining the peace.
How can we fully realize our Christian calling without being priests? Jason Catanese, a recent graduate and a schoolteacher in Phoenix, AZ, returns to College Conference East to reflect on how Christ’s light shines in his life.
Part of being a good friend and a Christian person is encouraging others and helping them grow. But how do we do that? What if they don't want to grow? This week, Dan, Tim, and Lia address how to foster that encouraging spirit.
There are so many talks about the importance of prayer, but how do we actually do it? Fr. Antony Hughes of St. Mary Orthodox Church in Cambridge, MA, leads a College Conference East workshop on truly living and dwelling in God.
Fr. Nicholas Belcher, Dean of Students at Hellenic College Holy Cross and assistant priest at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church in West Roxbury, MA, leads a College Conference East workshop, discussing cultural conceptions of salvation and the beginning of the Orthodox perspective.
Fr. Ninos Oshaana of Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Oakland leads a discussion at OCF's Southwest Regional Retreat around the theme of "Come and See," unpacking the assumptions we make when speaking about Jesus Christ and asking how we can enter into a deeper relationship.
Dan interviews Theo Smith, a student at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, who belongs to what's called an "area chapter" of OCF.
Dan and Fr. Brendan discuss exactly what people mean when they say they're "Spiritual but Not Religious," and how to address that without turning into a patronizing nuisance.
Dan and his guests discuss the process of preparing for life on the other side of the diploma.
Dan interviews Andriana Malhi, the president of the OCF chapter at UC Davis, about how Christ's love saved her life.
In this series, Dan and his guests discuss how to practically create a presence on a new campus.
Dan Bein begins a new series titled "All Stars," which features all of the great things that are happening with OCF nationally. Here he interviews Fr. Anthony Salzman, host of the podcast "Equipping the Saints" and the Southeast Regional Coordinator of OCF.
Do Orthodox Christians believe in the Bible? On the first episode of the new season of the OCF podcast, media student leader Dan Bein asks Fr. Brendan Pelphrey this question and more.
Dr. Timothy Patitsas speaks at College Conference East, which took place from December 28-31, 2016, at Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Pennsylvania.
Fr. Timothy Hojnicki speaks at College Conference East, which took place from December 28-31, 2016, at Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Pennsylvania.
Steven Christoforou speaks at College Conference East, which took place from December 28-31, 2016, at Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Pennsylvania.
Mother Melania speaks at College Conference West, which took place from December 28-31, 2016, at St. Nicholas Ranch in Dunlap, California.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about the Problem of Evil.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about the Priesthood.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about the Orthodox view of salvation.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about how to explain iconography.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about how to explain fasting.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about how to explain Orthodox baptism.
Mathew Monos once again interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey—this time about how to explain what Eastern Orthodox Christianity is.
In the introduction to a new series, host Mathew Monos interviews Fr. Brendan Pelphrey about the proper way to share the Orthodox faith on college campuses.
Steven Christoforou, host of the video podcast "Be the Bee," speaks at the 2014 College Conference.
Mother Gabriella, Abbess of Holy Dormition Monastery in Rives Junction, Michigan, speaks at the 2014 College Conference.
Host Matthew Monos interviews the OCF Student Leadership Board Chairman about OCF's "Day of Light," "Breaking Bread," and "Day of Prayer" programs.
This is the keynote address given by His Grace, Bishop Gregory of Nyssa, Primate of the American Carpatho-Russion Orthodox Diocese of the USA and the episcopal overseer of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship, at the 2013 OCF College Conference East at Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Penn. He addressed this year's theme for OCF: "Behold now, what is so good or so pleasant as for brothers to dwell together in unity?" (Psalm 132:1)
Eddie Ryan, the Social Media Student Leader of Orthodox Christian Fellowship, interviews two SAB members about Orthodox Awareness month.
Tim explains how to fast while in college and shares a number of easy fasting recipes. See the PDF below for the recipes discussed in today's show.
Tim interviews Emmy Award-winning actor Jonathan Jackson, who will be speaking at this year's West Coast College Conference.
Timothy interviews Jonny Braun, the OCF Southwest Representative, about College Student Sunday, which will take place this coming September 16th.
Timothy interviews students who have attended Real Break, the alternative spring break program offered every year to Orthodox college students.
In this show we speak with the keynote speakers from three of the four college conference locations. The interviews are with Dr. Gayle Woloschak (College Conference East), Fr. John Parker (College Conference South), and Abbot Meletios Webber (College Conference West).
Today, we continue our Lenten programming with tips on how to survive the Fast if you live on campus.
Today, we present a conversation on almsgiving and forgiveness, the first of several shorter segments for the season of Great Lent.
On today's show we recap March for Life, talk about OCF communities with Dn. Robert Miclean, and talk with friends about College Conference.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright," by Switchfoot, used by permission.
Metropolitan Jonah with part 3 of his talk at the fourth main session of the 2009 OCF College Conference held in December 2009.
Metropolitan Jonah with part 2 of his talk at the third main session of the 2009 OCF College Conference held in December.
Metropolitan Jonah speaks at the second main session of the 2009 OCF College Conference held in December.
Fr. Tom Hopko speaks at the first main session of the 2009 OCF College Conference held in December.
On today's show we discuss Thanksgiving with Fr. John Hopko and hear what you're thankful for.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright," by Switchfoot, used by permission.
While our show on Community is delayed for technical reasons, we have an important message to share about the fate of this year's southern College Conference. Please listen and help OCF out if you can.
On today's show we discuss the transition to college and how to make a proper new beginning.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright," by Switchfoot, used by permission.
Today we're revisiting last year's interview with Dr. Al Rossi on how to find peace in the chaotic college world. We also give details on how you can enter to win a free t-shirt from fullnessofthefaith.com.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission. Also heard: "Nathanial Miles" by Fr. Justin Mathews, used by permission.
OCF podcast host Jonathan Bush takes a brief detour from his planned posting in light of a damaging storm affecting St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church in Murfreesboro, TN where he was visiting. In place of what was planned, he is presenting a Lenten reflection on the Annunciation by OCFer Andrew Boyd.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission.
Today, Fr. James shows us how to look at life through the lens of the Orthodox faith.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission.
It's all about social justice today. We look at how the issue of social justice has begun to impact our culture with Jamie Tworkowski of the non-profit group To Write Love On Her Arms; Heather Zydek shares her thoughts on what activism means to us as Christians; and some OCF Student Advisory Board members share what they learned at the 2008 College Conference.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission. Also heard: "Revolution of Love" by Christine Moussa, used by permission
Today Fr. Kevin Scherer shares with us about the revolution of love we're all called to be a part of. Taken from the 2008 OCF College Conference at Antiochian Village.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission.
In today's special extra episode, we hear from some Student Advisory Board Members about changes to the SAB and details about the National Tour to be held this summer.
Theme song: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot. Used by permission.
Today, Metropolitan JONAH (OCA) shares his thoughts on OCF, spirituality during college, and monastic vocations.
Theme song, "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission.
Today we're excited to be sharing a recent interview with the roadies from Invisible Children, a non-profit organization that is changing the world. Listen to find out how you can find your place in the world of activism and social justice.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
Today we conclude our 3-part series entitled "Heaven Ain't Up, Hell Ain't Down" with a challenging Q&A session.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
Today we continue our a 3-part series entitled "Heaven Ain't Up, Hell Ain't Down."
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
Today, we talk about summer plans for the podcast. We also begin a 3-part series entitled "Heaven Ain't Up, Hell Ain't Down." Plus, we go over how YOU can help OCF in a HUGE way.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
Today, we have an interview with Dr. Al Rossi on how to find peace in college life, especially during finals time.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
Today, we wrap up our 3-part series entitled The Ancient Christian Faith in the Modern World. We also take time to chat with Stephanie Mardigian, chapter president at VCU in Richmond, VA.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
Today, we continue our 3-part series entitled "The Ancient Christian Faith in the Modern World." (25:43)
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission."
Today, we start a 3-part series entitled The Ancient Christian Faith in the Modern World.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission.
In today's episode, we listen to part two of a talk by Fr. Kevin Scherer.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot, used by permission.
In today's kick-off episode, we listen to part one of a talk by Fr. Kevin Scherer. We also peek into OCF's future and go over our dreams for the podcast and how you can dream with us.
Theme music: "Burn Out Bright" by Switchfoot from their 2006 album "Oh! Gravity." Used by permission of the band.
What does it mean to love God and why is it so hard to love my neighbor? Listen to the audio and download the notes.
The interviewer is Jonathan Bush, OCF Regional Representative for the South along with his friend Bekah. The subject of the interview is "What is a vocation?"
A lively discussion worth downloading. For details on the panel, download this PDF which has all of the information.