A Note on Halloween

In the Parable of the Pharisee and the Publican, Jesus exposes the danger of measuring ourselves against others. This sermon explores how self-justification traps the soul, while humility and repentance open the door to God’s mercy and peace.

Jesus wept over Jerusalem because the people failed to recognize God’s visitation and the peace He offered. In Luke 19:41–47, Christ’s tears and His cleansing of the Temple reveal the depth of divine love that seeks not to condemn, but to restore. Fr. Dan challenges believers to examine their hearts, remove spiritual clutter, and welcome Christ fully, allowing Him to transform them into living houses of prayer.

In his Trinity 9 sermon on Luke 15:11–32, Fr. Dan explores the familiar Parable of the Prodigal Son from a fresh perspective. Rather than focusing solely on the younger brother who wandered away, he highlights the lostness of both sons—the rebellious son in the distant country and the resentful son standing outside the celebration. At the heart of the story is a father whose grace reaches both. This sermon reminds us that whether we have strayed far from God or have become spiritually distant while remaining close to religious life, the Father’s invitation to forgiveness, belonging, and joy remains open to all.