In this episode, I, an Orthodox Christian, react to Michael Knowles’ debate on Halloween titled “Knowles MANSPLAINS To 3 Women Why Christians Should Celebrate Halloween” featuring Protestant Angela Scafidi, Catholic Mary Morgan, and fitness influencer Natalya Toryanski, and offer what was missing from the table: an Orthodox Christian perspective.
Wrapping up with Fr. Moses McPherson’s video, “The Definitive Orthodox Opinion on Halloween," this episode sheds light on the Orthodox Church's official stance (or lack thereof) on Halloween, how to enjoy this holiday as Orthodox Christians, and where to draw the line.
Together, we explore:
👻 Can Christians really celebrate Halloween?
🎃 What does Orthodoxy teach about Halloween?
🕯 How can families enjoy the season without compromising their faith?
🙏 What the origins of Halloween are, and why it matters
⚖️ Where to draw the line between fun and spiritual danger
#Halloween #OrthodoxChristian #ChristianHalloween
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00-1:36 What our family did for Halloween
1:36-4:11 Christian Takes on Halloween
4:11-6:48 Michael Knowles Video on Halloween
6:48-7:49 Orthodox All Saints Day
7:49-10:59 Why Some Christians think Halloween is demonic
10:59-12:19 Protestant take on traditions
12:19-14:00 Pressure to denounce Halloween
14:00-17:46 Baptizing Halloween
17:46-21:00 Christian traditions for All Saints Day
21:00-24:43 Ex Satanist & Ex Occult testimonies about Halloween
24:43-26:00 What if your kid dresses up as something innocent?
26:00-30:18 Does Halloween have Christian or pagan roots?
30:18-33:55 Don’t be transformed by the ways of the world argument
33:55-40:48 Christian vs non Christian ways to participate
40:48-47:25 Satanic Panic: is it legit?
47:25-50:00 Orthodox priest on Halloween
50:00-51:18 Does it matter if Halloween started out pagan?
51:18-51:54 What the Orthodox Church says (or doesn’t say) about Halloween
51:54-54:47 How to ENJOY Halloween as Orthodox Christians
54:47-58:00 Where to draw the line with Halloween: haunted houses & secular parties
58:00-1:00:45 It’s not dogmatic
1:00:45-1:01:40 Coming up next
Today, Kara Mosher shares her journey from the occult to Orthodox Christianity and exposes psychedelic deception. Before encountering Christ, psychedelics were her god, yet never healed her or brought her peace. While she thought they were leading her to truth in the spirit realm, they were only leading her further into darkness and occult training.
In this episode of the Raised & Redeemed podcast, host Michaela Nikolaenko talks with Kara Mosher, author of Here Comes Trouble and host of the Let’s Be Friends Podcast, about her journey from psychedelic “enlightenment," mental illness, and demonic oppression to finding the true Light in Orthodox Christianity.
#orthodoxchristian #testimony #psychedelics #theoccult
----------------------------------------------------
📚 Guest Info:
Follow Kara Mosher!
📖 Book: Here Comes Trouble https://www.karamosher.com/author/here-comes-trouble
🎙️ Podcast: Let’s Be Friends https://www.letsbefriendspodcast.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herecomestroublexo/
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00–01:02 Intro
01:02–12:43 Psychedelic Phronema
12:43–22:55 A Pharmaceutical Slumber
22:55–29:54 Demonic Visitations
29:54–40:54 The Portal of Eyegazing
40:54–43:01 Fear No Evil – Halloween
41:44–50:46 Jesus Interrupted Psychic Channeling
50:46–54:59 Akashic Records
54:59–55:53 My Baby Joins!!
55:53–1:05:08 Coming to Orthodoxy
1:05:08–1:06:43 Closing
Looking for a breakdown of Divine Liturgy? An explanation of each step of the process you see happing in an Orthodox Christian Church? Well, here's your beginner's guide to Divine Liturgy!
Today we're walking through Saint Mark Greek Orthodox Church with attorney and cradle Orthodox Christian, Frank Bilotto, as he explains step by step of Divine Liturgy. Whether you’re new to Orthodoxy, exploring the faith, or wanting to understand the beauty and symbolism behind every movement, prayer, and procession, this is your guide to the Divine Liturgy from start to finish.
🎧 Watch this before your next Divine Liturgy to experience it with fresh eyes and a deeper appreciation for the ancient, sacred, and mystical worship of the Orthodox Church.
# OrthodoxChristianity #DivineLiturgy #OrthodoxFaith
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00–05:04 Frank’s background
05:04–11:26 History of Divine Liturgy
11:26–14:04 What we do in the narthex
14:04–16:43 Why we venerate icons
16:43–17:39 Matins/Orthros
17:39–18:38 Icons continued
18:38–21:05 Why and how we cross ourselves
21:05–22:58 Structure of the Church
22:58–25:24 The Book of Revelation reflects Divine Liturgy
26:24–29:55 Beginning of Divine Liturgy
29:55–31:54 Small Entrance / Presentation of the Gospel
32:03–33:18 The Iconostas
33:18–36:30 Epistle, Gospel Reading & sermon
36:30–41:24 Grand Entrance & The Liturgy of the Faithful
41:24–43:42 The Altar & the Theotokos
43:42–46:57 The Creed
46:57–49:45 Changing the bread and wine into the Body and Blood
49:45–54:20 The Lord’s Prayer
54:20–56:19 Receiving Communion
56:19–59:53 Dismissal and Blessed Bread
In this video, I’m responding to your comments from my recent post about Halloween. Many of you shared strong opinions—most against celebrating it—and I wanted to take a moment to address those thoughts with honesty, love, and discernment.
As someone who came from a past of extreme darkness—involved in things that truly glorified evil—I understand the concerns many Christians have. But I also know the difference between the demonic and the innocent, and I don’t believe that dressing up, walking with your family, or sharing candy with your community has to be sinful when done with clear boundaries and a heart that remains in Christ.
Let’s talk about how we, as Christians, can approach days like Halloween with spiritual wisdom rather than fear, and how to shine light—even on a night that’s often associated with darkness.
👇 Share your thoughts in the comments! I’d love to hear how your family approaches this day and how you keep your focus on what’s good and godly.
#ChristianHalloween #OrthodoxChristianity #RaisedAndRedeemed #FaithOverFear #MichaelaNikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00-4:12 Intro
4:12-6:04 Why I view Halloween as okay
6:04-11:32 An Orthodox Approach to Halloween
11:32-30:04 Instagram comments about Halloween
30:04-36:32 Halloween's roots in All Saint's Day?
36:32-37:13 TikTok comments about Halloween
37:13-1:00:32 YouTube comments about Halloween
What does it mean to live liturgically as an Orthodox Christian? In this episode of the Raised & Redeemed podcast, I sit down with Fr. Christian Siskos, Assistant Priest at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Charlotte, NC, and the voice behind Noetic Spring.
Together, we explore how Orthodox Christians can live out the faith daily through prayer, fasting, the feasts, and the sacraments—passing the beauty of Orthodoxy on to future generations.
We discuss the meaning of the Eucharist, the role of women in the Church, head coverings, beauty standards, and how Orthodox Christians can navigate cultural challenges like Halloween, yoga, and modern media. Fr. Christian also shares about his children’s curriculum Little Ascetics, designed to help families nurture faith in their homes.
If you’ve ever wondered how to live a liturgical life, how to participate in the Orthodox cycle of feasts and fasts, or how Orthodoxy responds to today’s hot-button issues—this conversation is for you.
Connect with Father Christian (Noetic Spring):
Website: htgo.org
Instagram: www.instagram.com/noeticspring
Newsletter & all links : https://noeticspring.kit.com
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more Orthodox Christian testimonies, teachings, and conversations!
#orthodoxchristianity #livingliturgically #Orthodoxlife
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ Timestamps
00:00–02:00 Intro
02:00–16:00 What does it mean to live a liturgical life?
16:00–18:48 The levels and spirit of fasting
18:48–24:13 Advice about worldly media
24:13–30:59 Beauty standards, makeup, and veiling
30:59–32:13 What to do if you don’t live near a parish
32:13–39:27 The significance of the Eucharist
39:27–41:44 Who is “the Church”?
41:44–46:00 How the Church trains believers in the gifts of the Spirit
46:00–54:24 How to discern true vs. false prophets
54:24–56:47 What roles can women play in the Church?
56:47–1:01:10 Marriage or monasticism?
1:01:10–1:07:48 How Christians should approach Halloween
1:07:48–1:14:56 How Christians should approach yoga
1:14:56–1:16:23 Closing + Noetic Spring
✨ In this powerful Orthodox Christian testimony, I sit down with my friend Romy Scates to share her journey of faith—from growing up in the Assemblies of God, to falling away into New Age spirituality, to finally finding her way home to the Orthodox Church.
Raised in the church, Romy never fully forgot that Jesus Christ is Lord. But as she searched for truth, she found herself entangled in the deception of the New Age. Later, as she returned to Christianity, she discovered that many Protestant churches were teaching not only false doctrines but also exposing believers to spiritually dangerous practices.
Her story is one of discernment, repentance, and encountering the fear of the Lord. Ultimately, Romy and her husband found the Orthodox Christian faith, where they experienced the fullness of truth, reverence for God, and the unchanging teachings of the Early Church.
🙏 Whether you are:
~ A Protestant Christian curious about true Christian teachings
~ A seeker leaving the New Age movement
~ Or an Orthodox Christian interested in testimonies of converts…
This episode will inspire you and help you understand why people are finding their true home in the Orthodox Church.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this helpful!
#orthodoxchristian #testimony #orthodoxtestimony
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko--
--------------------------------------------------
📌 Timestamps:
00:00–3:13 | Intro
3:13–7:13 | Growing up in the church (Assemblies of God)
7:13–19:56 | Falling away from the Faith and into New Age spirituality
19:56–30:42 | Coming back to Christ
30:42–39:37 | Unholy spirits and growing in discernment at church
39:37–52:24 | The dangers of charismatic teachings
52:24–1:09:26 | Why she left Protestantism
1:09:26–1:22:51 | Journey to Orthodoxy
What happens when we die? In this episode, Orthodox priest Fr. Paul Truebenbach joins me to share the ancient Christian understanding of the afterlife, the 40 days after death, and the reality of spiritual warfare.
We discuss how the Orthodox Church explains the journey of the soul after death, the difference between temptation and demonic oppression, and how to prepare for the Final Judgment. We also address common questions: Can demons know your thoughts? Are paranormal experiences and “ghosts” always demonic?
If you’ve ever wondered about life after death, angels and demons, or the invisible spiritual realm, this conversation will give you a clear and biblical foundation rooted in the Orthodox tradition.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this helpful!
#orthodoxchristian #afterlife #spiritualwarfare
----------------------------------------------------
Follow Fr. Paul Truebenbach: https://www.youtube.com/@frpaul
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko
----------------------------------------------------
⏳ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00-1:59 Intro
1:59-13:27 How can believers be victorious over demonic influence and torment?
13:27-17:56 How can we know the difference between our flesh and demonic torment?
17:56-22:05 Do demons know our thoughts?
22:05-25:10 Have you ever encountered someone who was possessed?
25:10-42:21 What is the soul’s journey after death?
42:21-47:29 What happened to the souls of non-Christian’s after death?
47:29-50:11 Is God in all the hearts of Christian and non-Christian people?
50:11-56:44 Clarifying paradise and hades versus heaven and hell
56:44-59:35 What happens at the final judgement?
59:35-1:04 Have many or all biblical prophecies been fulfilled?
1:04:31-1:16:12 Why pray to saints?
1:16:12-1:20:28 Can our loved ones in heaven see us?
1:20:28-1:27:02 What do you wish you would have known before becoming Orthodox?
1:27:02-1:28:49 Final thoughts
What does it truly mean to be an excellent Christian?
In this season finale of the Raised & Redeemed podcast we reach the summit of the Christian life by exploring Steps 26–30 of Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou—based on the timeless Orthodox classic The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus.
In this episode, we dive deep into the virtues that crown a life in Christ:
🧭 Discernment
🌿 Stillness
🙏 Prayer
🔥 Dispassion
💫 Faith, Hope, and Love
This isn’t about striving for perfection or appearing “religious.” It’s about surrendering fully to God’s will and becoming so filled with His love that your life itself becomes a witness—without even saying a word.
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Resources Referenced (Affiliate Links):
FREE DOWNLOADABLE GUIDE to "The Passions" Serieshttps://www.michaelanikolaenko.com/#freepassionsguide
📖 The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacushttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XMYTZ5R/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_DX1KQSTFH0NBD69EKGWJ?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliouhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1936270897/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_FW05ZVMT36V1Q4WT5JVH?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Orthodox Study Biblehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/0718003594/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_83T623KVX235AS8T6KZ2?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
-------------------------------------------------
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:51 Intro
1:51-5:44 what is spiritual discernment
5:44-7:46 how to be still
7:46-10:41 what is true prayer
10:41-11:56 how to aquire dispassion
11:56-14:03 the summit: faith, hope & love
14:03-14:48 prayer for flowing God's love
14:48-16:22 Closing
Are you struggling with pride, vainglory, or the constant need for validation? This video explores the final and most dangerous passions from the Ladder of Divine Ascent - vainglory and pride - and reveals their powerful antidotes: meekness, simplicity, and humility.
What You'll Learn:
✅ The difference between vainglory and pride (and why pride is deadlier)
✅ How validation-seeking destroys our spiritual life
✅ Why "fake saints" are more dangerous than honest sinners
✅ Practical steps to develop genuine humility
✅ How to respond rather than react when wronged
✅ The prayer that transforms proud hearts
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Resources Referenced (Affiliate Links):
FREE DOWNLOADABLE GUIDE to "The Passions" Serieshttps://www.michaelanikolaenko.com/#freepassionsguide
📖 The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacushttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XMYTZ5R/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_DX1KQSTFH0NBD69EKGWJ?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliouhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1936270897/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_FW05ZVMT36V1Q4WT5JVH?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Orthodox Study Biblehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/0718003594/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_83T623KVX235AS8T6KZ2?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
-------------------------------------------------
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:53 Intro
1:53-6:40 Vainglory
6:40-11:30 Pride
11:30-13:20 Meekness
13:20-16:35 Humility
16:35-17:54 Practical Steps
17:54-19:27 Closing
Growing in Alertness to the Holy Spirit - Awakening the Numb Soul
Have you ever caught yourself praying but not really praying? Going through the motions of faith while feeling spiritually numb? You're not alone. In this powerful episode, we explore how to move from spiritual insensitivity to genuine alertness to God's presence.
📖 WHAT WE COVER:
Step 18: The dangerous trap of spiritual insensitivity and hypocrisy
Step 19: When sleep becomes escape from spiritual reality
Step 20: Cultivating true spiritual alertness and sobriety
🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS:
✓ Spiritual insensitivity is common but curable
✓ "Every sinner is a mirror of another" - our judgments reveal our own sins
✓ True hope begins with holy despair: "Lord, I cannot save myself"
✓ Alertness isn't anxiety - it's spiritual sobriety
✓ One honest moment with God can pierce through weeks of numbness
💡 THIS WEEK'S CHALLENGE:
Move beyond spiritual checklists and practice meditative presence with God through Scripture, prayer, silence, and nature.
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced (Affiliate Links):
📖 The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XMYTZ5R/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_DX1KQSTFH0NBD69EKGWJ?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1936270897/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_FW05ZVMT36V1Q4WT5JVH?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Orthodox Study Bible
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0718003594/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_83T623KVX235AS8T6KZ2?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
-------------------------------------------------
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:
Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:40 intro
1:40-5:14 Passion of Insensitivity
5:14-6:30 Passion of Sleep
6:30-7:18 The Virtue of Alertness
7:18-8:31 My Takeaway
8:31-10:23 Practical Application
10:23-11:10 Prayer to Awaken Soul
11:10-11:56 Closing
Today we discuss overcoming the love of money and the fear that fuels it by deep diving into Steps 16-17 & 21 from "Thirty Steps to Heaven" and "The Ladder of Divine Ascent" - exploring how to overcome avarice (greed) through voluntary poverty and conquering the fear that drives our attachment to money.
🔥 What You'll Learn:
✅ The spiritual roots of greed and money anxiety
✅ How fear of lack keeps us trapped in endless striving
✅ The difference between holy fear vs unholy fear
✅ Practical steps to develop voluntary poverty as a virtue
✅ Biblical principles for breaking free from materialism
✅ How to find your identity in Christ, not possessions
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced (Affiliate Links):
📖 The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacushttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XMYTZ5R/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_DX1KQSTFH0NBD69EKGWJ?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliouhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1936270897/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_FW05ZVMT36V1Q4WT5JVH?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Orthodox Study Biblehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/0718003594/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_83T623KVX235AS8T6KZ2?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
-------------------------------------------------
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://youtu.be/XGT8kg7CzX8?si=VJXwfufOgURUAXOw
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenkoFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:14 Intro
1:14-2:54 What is Avarice
2:54-5:30 Delusions About Money
5:30-7:43 How Fear Led Me to Greed
7:43-9:31 Holy vs Unholy Fear
9:31-14:33 Poverty & Generosity
14:33-16:52 Practical Application
16:52-17:23 Prayer for Greed
17:23-18:03 Closing
In this powerful episode of Raised & Redeemed, we dive into Step 15 of "Thirty Steps to Heaven" by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou to explore how to battle the passion of lust and walk in true spiritual freedom.
You'll learn how to recognize the spiritual roots of lust, distinguish it from God’s holy design for sexuality, and apply biblical strategies for healing and growth. Whether you’re battling temptation, guiding others, or seeking to deepen your faith, this episode offers both practical tools and spiritual wisdom.
🔑 What You’ll Learn:
- The difference between lust and holy desire
- How lust connects to pride, gluttony, and despair
- The role of prayer, fasting, and spiritual discipline
- Saints who overcame sexual temptation and addiction
- How to redirect lust into a life of holiness and purpose
✝️ Key Topics Covered:
- Understanding lust as a form of spiritual warfare
- How to overcome in moments of weakness
- Steps to break the cycle of sin, shame, and despair
- Embracing chastity as a path to peace and power
- A personal testimony of healing from sexual addiction
🎧 Perfect for:
- Christians battling pornography or sexual sin
- Pastors, youth leaders, and mentors
- Anyone seeking purity, healing, and transformation
➡️ Subscribe for more episodes on overcoming spiritual struggles and growing in holiness.
#ChristianLiving #SpiritualWarfare #OvercomingLust #ChastityTips
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced (Affiliate Links):
📖 The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacushttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XMYTZ5R/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_DX1KQSTFH0NBD69EKGWJ?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliouhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1936270897/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_FW05ZVMT36V1Q4WT5JVH?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
📖 Orthodox Study Biblehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/0718003594/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_i_83T623KVX235AS8T6KZ2?linkCode=ml1&tag=michaelare072-20
-------------------------------------------------
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
📖 Find the show notes here 👉
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Socials:Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenkoFacebook → https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:15 Intro
1:15-3:01 Godly Sexuality vs. Lust
3:01-5:45 Sexual Sins Born from Lust
5:45-7:42 Lust & Spiritual Passions
7:42-9:56 Personal Testimony
9:56-11:29 Scripture on Lust
11:29-16:14 How to Grow in Chastity
16:14-22:14 Practical Steps for Chastity
22:14-24:35 Saints Who Overcame Lust
24:35-25:06 Prayer for Lust
25:06-25:30 What's Next
The spiritual passion of gluttony is more than overeating—it’s a battle for your soul. In this episode of Raised & Redeemed, discover how to conquer it through Christ.
✨ Gluttony isn’t just about food—it’s a disordered desire that weakens our will, clouds our spiritual clarity, and distances us from God.
In this episode, we’ll explore:
~ What gluttony really is according to the Bible and the Church Fathers
~ How gluttony affects your spiritual life, mental health, and self-control
~ The connection between gluttony and other sins like lust and sloth
~ Practical steps to conquer gluttony through fasting, prayer, and spiritual discipline
🎧 Whether you’re on a healing journey or want to grow in holiness, this episode will inspire you to crucify the flesh and be filled with the Spirit.
🕊️ Let your hunger lead you home. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share with someone who needs encouragement today!
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced:
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 https://www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast/conquering-the-spiritual-passion-of-gluttony
🔔 Subscribe to Raised & Redeemed for more Christ-centered content on healing, holiness, and the spiritual life.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:
Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Social:
Instagram → @michaelanikolaenko
TikTok → @michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → Raised & Redeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:18 Intro
1:18-5:02 Gluttony Explained
5:02-8:23 Personal Testimony
8:23-13:15 The Power of Fasting
13:15-16:53 Practical Application
16:53-18:33 Final Encouragement
Feeling spiritually weary? Defeat the noonday demon of despondency with ancient wisdom that actually works.
Ever felt like God isn't hearing your prayers? Like your spiritual motivation has completely disappeared? You're not just dealing with a bad mood—you're facing one of the enemy's most subtle attacks: spiritual despondency (acedia). This episode reveals how to fight back.
🎯 What You'll Learn:
✅ What despondency really is (and why it's not just depression)
✅ The 3 gateways that let this demon into your life
✅ Why modern solutions fail at addressing spiritual warfare
✅ 6 powerful weapons from the Church Fathers to defeat spiritual sloth
✅ How to break the despair cycle with hope, faith, and action
💡 Powerful Quote from This Episode:
"We drown in entertainment to avoid the silence where God speaks—then complain when He is silent..."
Scripture Focus: Galatians 6:9 - "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced:
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
📖 Find the show notes here 👉
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Social:
Instagram → @michaelanikolaenko
TikTok → @michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → Raised & Redeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:18 Intro
1:18-5:42 What is Despondency?
5:42-8:32 Personal Testimony
8:32-11:17 How to Combat Despondency
11:17-13:21 Closing
How do you overcome anger as a Christian? Or the passions like malice and slander that flow from it? In order to overcome it, we have to get to its root: our hearts.
In this episode, we dive into Steps 8–12 of Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou, based on The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus. These steps focus on the spiritual passions that flow from pride and poison our relationships:
🤐 Meekness & Loss of Anger
🤐 Remembrance of Wrongs & Malice
🤐 Slander
🤐 Talkativeness & Silence
🤐 Falsehood
The desert fathers saw these not as minor flaws, but as powerful passions that choke out love and disrupt communion with God and others.
Join us as we uncover the path from inner chaos to spiritual peace, learning how to tame the tongue, purify the heart, and walk more freely in Christ’s love.
-------------------------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced:
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
Find the show notes here 👉https://www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast/overcome-the-passion-of-anger-podcast
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Social:
Instagram → @michaelanikolaenko
TikTok → @michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → Raised & Redeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-2:00 Intro
2:00-5:54 Step 8: Anger
5:54-7:48 Step 9: Remembrance of Wrongs
7:48-9:42 Step 10: Slander
9:42-11:45 Step 11: Talkativeness & Silence
11:45-13:36 Step 12: Falsehood
13:36-15:12 Practical Application
15:12-16:35 Closing
What does it take to begin the journey to true spiritual freedom?
In this episode of The Raised & Redeemed Podcast, we begin our ascent up the Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus, guided by Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou.
🪜 Today, we cover Steps 1–7, which lay the spiritual foundation for inner transformation:
🕊 Renunciation
🕊 Detachment
🕊 Exile
🕊 Obedience
🕊 Repentance
🕊 Remembrance of Death
🕊 Holy Mourning
These ancient steps help us break free from the sins and passions that keep us bound, preparing our hearts to receive the virtues of Christ and walk in freedom.
💬 Whether you’re new to the faith or deep into your spiritual journey, this episode will challenge and inspire you to take your next step toward heaven.
--------------------------------
🔥 Key Topics Covered:
"How to detach from worldly attachments"
"Why remembrance of death brings life"
"What holy mourning means and how it purifies the soul"
"The connection between repentance and transformation"
"Preparing the heart to grow in virtue"
--------------------------------
📚 Books Referenced:
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou
🎧 Start from the beginning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGT8kg7CzX8
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 https://www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast/first-7-steps-to-spiritual-freedom-podcast
✨ Don’t forget to visit www.michaelanikolaenko.com and sign up for the newsletter to stay connected and get updates on my book journey!
--------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Social:
Instagram → @michaelanikolaenko
TikTok → @michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → Raised & Redeemed
--------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00-1:33 Intro
1:33-4:10 Step 1: Renunciation
4:10-6:04 Step 2: Detachment
6:04-7:02 Step 3: Exile
7:02-8:20 Step 4: Obedience
8:20-11:20 Step 5: Repentance
11:20-13:03 Step 6: Remembrance of Death
13:03-14:07 Step 7: Mourning
14:07-16:16 Practical Application
16:16-17:09 Closing
In this season, we will discuss how to overcome sinful passions with heavenly virtues using Thirty Steps to Heaven by Fr. Vassilios Papavassiliou, a spiritual manual based on The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus.
In this episode, I share where I’ve been, what’s been stirring in my heart, and why this season is all about the real spiritual battle—not just casting out darkness, but becoming holy through everyday choices.
We will discuss:
💥 Why the true spiritual war happens inside of us
💥 How to fight the passions (like pride, anger, and lust)
💥 The beauty of growing in virtues (like humility, patience, and chastity)
🔔 Subscribe and join me each week as we climb this ladder together—step by step, passion by passion, virtue by virtue.
📖 Find the show notes here 👉 https://www.michaelanikolaenko.com/podcast/overcoming-the-passions-with-virtues-podcast
✨ Don’t forget to visit www.michaelanikolaenko.com and sign up for the newsletter to stay connected and get updates on my book journey!
----------------------------------------------------
🌐 Explore More:Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com (blog, book updates, merch, and more)
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
📲 Follow Along on Social:
Instagram → @michaelanikolaenko
TikTok → @michaelanikolaenko
Facebook → Raised & Redeemed
----------------------------------------------------
🕒 Timestamps:
00:00:00-00:29 Intro
00:29-2:56 Overview of Season 5
2:56-4:35 My Journey
4:35-7:03 The "Passions"
7:03-8:43 The "Virtues"
8:43-9:48 Closing
In this episode, Father Andrew Stephen Damick is unmasking gods, fallen angels, and Halloween from an Orthodox Christian perspective.
Fr. Andrew is an Orthodox Christian, Husband, Dad, Priest, and Chief Content Officer for Ancient Faith Ministries. He co-hosts The Lord of Spirits podcast with Fr. Stephen De Young, and authored a book we'll be discussing titled, The Lord of Spirits.
In this episode you can expect to learn more about the gods, fallen angels, giants, demonic possession, deliverance from demons, and Halloween!
Follow The Lord of Spirits Podcast: https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/lordofspirits
Buy The Lord of Spirits Book: https://store.ancientfaith.com/lord-of-spirits/
----------------------------------------------------
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
----------------------------------------------------
SHOP RAISED & REDEEMED MERCH 👉 https://raisedandredeemed.creator-spring.com/
BE A GUEST 👉 https://www.raisedandredeemed.com/be-a-guest
----------------------------------------------------
✰"How to Know if He's the One" eBook Download 👉 https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
-----------------------------------------------------
✰LET'S BE FRIENDS:
✧ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
✧ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
✧ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemedpodcast/
-----------------------------------------------------
00:00-4:14 Intro
4:14-9:43 What is the New Age?
9:43-22:16 Who are the other "gods"?
22:31-30:19 Giants, Aliens, Ghosts & Nephilim
30:19-43:02 Can Christians be Possessed by Demons?
43:02-49:14 Does Yoga Open Doors to Demons?
49:14-53:55 Christians That Smoke Pot
53:55-1:00:54 Can Christians Drink Alcohol?
1:01:01-1:12:26 Teachings From Fallen Angels
1:12:26-1:25:55 Can Christians Participate in Halloween?
1:25:55-1:34:08 How To Achieve Deliverance From Demons
-----------------------------------------------------
✰ ATTENTION COMPANIES: For business inquires, email me directly: michaela@raisedandredeemed.com
Ever wondered what strip club ministries really do and how they aim to reach the broken hearts of strippers? These INCREDIBLE WOMEN and former strippers for Jesus, are with us today to talk about what leads women into sex work, how strippers respond to the gospel, how to prevent women from ending up in this line of work, and some praise reports from their ministry outreaches.
Paige Lohman is the founder of Girl Redeemed Ministries, Helping Women Mature in Christ w/ discipleship & strip club outreach (Orange County, CA).
Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girl.redeemed?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/paigelohman27
Amazon wishlist: https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2YDSREUGMPJ2?ref_=wl_share
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paige.derogatis?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Email: girlredeemed1@gmail.com
Corrine Santanelli is the founder of Beulah Strip Church (Chicago, IL). Her educational background includes a BS in Psychology and a MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from GCU. As a psychotherapist, her expertise is complemented by extensive volunteer experience spanning over 15 years in health and wellness. Notably, she founded and directs a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting women in the sex industry for nearly a decade.
Links:
Website: https://beulahstripchurch.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/beulah_strip_church/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/beulahstripchurch/
Paypal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=BMCZQDXNGF4QC&ssrt=1727711475028
Zelle: beulahstripchurch@gmail.com
Email: beulahstripchurch@gmail.com
Kelsey Decker is an author, speaker, and strip club evangelist. She’s the founder of Morning Glory Ministries (Indianapolis, IN & St. Louis, MO), a survivor-led nonprofit fighting sexual exploitation with the gospel of Jesus Christ. Kelsey is a hope dealer and joy ambassador, making disciples and going wherever the Lord leads.
Links:
https://www.morninggloryglobal.com/
https://linktr.ee/kelseyadrienne
https://www.facebook.com/kelseyadriennedecker/
----------------------------------------------------
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
----------------------------------------------------
SHOP RAISED & REDEEMED MERCH 👉 https://raisedandredeemed.creator-spring.com/
BE A GUEST 👉 https://www.raisedandredeemed.com/be-a-guest
----------------------------------------------------
✰"How to Know if He's the One" eBook Download 👉 https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
-----------------------------------------------------
✰LET'S BE FRIENDS:
✧ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
✧ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
✧ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemedpodcast/
-----------------------------------------------------
00:00-2:27 Intro
2:27-15:00 Testimonies
15:15-18:58 What Leads Women Into Sex Work
18:58-27:45 How Strippers Respond to the Gospel
27:45-38:34 What It's Like To Go On An Outreach
38:34-43:42 Massage Parlor or Brothel? 43:42-48:02 How To Prevent Girls From Ending Up in Sex Work
48:18-1:03:42 Strip Club Ministry Praise Reports
1:03:42-1:18:16 Resources & Prayers
-----------------------------------------------------
✰ ATTENTION COMPANIES:
For business inquires, email me directly: michaela@raisedandredeemed.com
What happens when a financial dominatrix finds Jesus? Does the anger and ammo that made this form of sex work possible get healed? Does the presence of Jesus flood out the demons who were getting pleasure from this abuse and exploitation?
Today, Ashley Burson-Jones shares her testimony of how she got into findom, the dark things she experienced there, and how Jesus redeemed her from this path of immorality and destruction.
----------------------------------------------------
Follow Ashley 👉 www.faithtohope.com
----------------------------------------------------
🎙️ Listen to the Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed
🎥 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw
----------------------------------------------------
SHOP RAISED & REDEEMED MERCH 👉 https://raisedandredeemed.creator-spring.com/
BE A GUEST 👉 https://www.raisedandredeemed.com/be-a-guest
----------------------------------------------------
✰"How to Know if He's the One" eBook Download 👉 https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko
-----------------------------------------------------
✰LET'S BE FRIENDS:
✧ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/
✧ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko
✧ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/raisedandredeemedpodcast/
-----------------------------------------------------
00:00-00:42 Intro
00:42-12:29 Findom & What I Wish I Knew
12:29-22:23 How Ashley Got Into Sex Work
22:23-27:06 Financial Domination is Demonic Torment
27:06-39:43 Sin Consequences & Spiritual Warfare
39:59-49:36 Ashley's Turning Point
49:36-57:09 Ways to Walk a Changed Life
57:09-1:00:12 How To Treat Someone in Sex Work
1:00:12-1:01:15 Outro
-----------------------------------------------------
✰ ATTENTION COMPANIES:
For business inquires, email me directly: michaela@raisedandredeemed.com