FACTS

In this episode of The FACTS Podcast, we explore one of the most shocking and macabre events in Church history—the Cadaver Synod. In 897 AD, Pope Stephen VI ordered the corpse of his predecessor, Pope Formosus, to be exhumed, dressed in papal vestments, and placed on trial for crimes against the Church. Why did this happen? What political and theological tensions led to such a grotesque spectacle? And what does the Cadaver Synod reveal about the state of the papacy in the late 9th century?Join Dr. Stephen Boyce as he unpacks the story behind the trial of a dead pope, the chaos of the post-Carolingian Church, and the aftermath that reshaped medieval Rome.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #CadaverSynod #ChurchHistory #PapalHistory #TheFACTSPodcast #PopeFormosus #MedievalChurch #DarkAges #ChristianHistory #StephenBoyce #CatholicHistory

In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce and Pat May unpack the Second Ecumenical Council—Constantinople 381, the gathering that completed the Nicene Creed and reshaped the map of early Christianity. Convened by Emperor Theodosius I, this council not only reaffirmed the divinity of Christ but boldly confessed the Holy Spirit as Lord and Giver of Life, closing the door on Arianism and Macedonian heresies once and for all. Join us as we trace the intense theological debates, the tragic death of Meletius of Antioch, Gregory of Nazianzus’ resignation, and the dramatic rise of Constantinople as “New Rome.” We’ll explore how these events deepened East–West tensions, redefined Church hierarchy, and left an enduring mark on both Orthodox and Catholic tradition. If you’ve ever wondered how the Creed we recite today took its final shape—or why Constantinople became the new center of gravity for the Eastern Church—this episode is a must-listen. Topics include: * The fall of Arian influence and the enforcement of Nicene orthodoxy * Meletius of Antioch’s death and the Antiochene schism * Gregory of Nazianzus’ presidency and resignation * The rise of Nectarius and the making of “New Rome” * Why Rome rejected Canon 3—and how Chalcedon later affirmed the council If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Stephen Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #ChurchHistory #EcumenicalCouncils #NiceneCreed #TheologyPodcast

In this first episode of our new series, The Seven Ecumenical Councils, Stephen Boyce and Pat May explore the Council of Nicaea (325), the landmark gathering that shaped the foundation of Christian orthodoxy. We’ll discuss the historical context, the Arian controversy, the role of Constantine, and how the Nicene Creed became a defining statement of faith for the Church. Join us as we trace the debates, decisions, and lasting legacy of the first ecumenical council. If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 #CouncilOfNicaea #EcumenicalCouncils #ChurchHistory #ChristianTheology

Are you thinking about leaving your current denomination to become Catholic, Orthodox, or Anglican? Before you make that move, there are serious questions you need to wrestle with. In this episode of FACTS, Stephen Boyce walks through five essential questions every believer should ask before switching church traditions. From understanding doctrine beyond surface-level aesthetics, to wrestling with the sacraments, spiritual authority, family impact, and the dangers of rushing, this conversation will help you slow down, think deeply, and discern wisely.Whether you’re curious, struggling, or seriously considering a change, this episode will ground you in both Scripture and church history, reminding us that the faith we confess must be more than a reaction—it must be a conviction.If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints.#ChurchHistory #CatholicConvert #OrthodoxConvert #AnglicanConvert #ChristianPodcast #ProtestantToCatholic #ProtestantToOrthodox #ProtestantToAnglican #FaithJourney #DenominationSwitch #ApostolicFaith #FACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce

Dr. Stephen Boyce and Pat May dive into the reality of spiritual warfare and the angelic battles surrounding us, especially within the sacred mystery of the Mass. Drawing on Scripture, Church tradition, and the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, we explore how the liturgy is not only worship but also a place where heavenly and spiritual realities converge. This episode unpacks the unseen conflict between the powers of darkness and the hosts of heaven, reminding us that Christians are called to stand firm in prayer, faith, and vigilance. Join us as we reflect on the role of St. Michael, the spiritual meaning of the Mass, and the hope we have in Christ’s victory. If you'd like to donate to our ministry or be a monthly partner that receives newsletters and one on one discussions with Dr. Boyce, here's a link: https://give.tithe.ly/?formId=6381a2ee-b82f-42a7-809e-6b733cec05a7 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more conversations on Scripture, Church history, and the faith once delivered to the saints. #StMichael #SpiritualWarfare #ChristianPodcast #WeAreAtWar #Mass #Liturgy #AngelicHosts #MichaelTheArchangel #ChristianFaith #Catholic #Orthodox #Anglican #Prayer #FaithAndTradition #TheFACTSPodcast #StephenBoyce #PatMay