The Ladder Homilies

Eyes Opened on the Road - Rev. Fr. Roby Antony

In this homily on the Road to Emmaus, we reflect on why Luke and Cleopas could walk beside Christ and still fail to recognize Him. Their physical eyes worked, but their spiritual eyes were restrained. Through the Scriptures, the breaking of bread, and their desire to remain in Christ’s presence, their eyes were finally opened. This message explores how the spiritual disciplines of Great Lent strengthen our ability to see God at work in our lives—and how easily those spiritual muscles weaken when neglected. Drawing from the healing of the blind man and the Eucharistic encounter at Emmaus, this homily challenges us to continue pursuing Christ beyond the fasting season, asking God to remove the restraints from our hearts so we may truly recognize His presence every day.

Saved and Being Saved - Rev. Fr. Vijay Thomas

Between Ascension and Pentecost, the Church enters a strange season of waiting. But why do we wait for the Holy Spirit when the Spirit is already among us? This homily reflects on the Orthodox understanding of the Christian life as both fulfilled and still unfolding — saved and being saved, experiencing heaven now while still longing for its fullness. Through Scripture, liturgical prayers, and the story of a woman named Hilda who wondered whether heaven meant “singing forever,” we are reminded that heaven is not merely a distant place, but the fullness of God’s presence breaking into our lives even now.

Protected for a Purpose - His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos

On the Sunday before Pentecost, this homily reflects on Christ’s prayer in John 17 and what it means to live in the world without belonging to it. Drawing from the story of Saint George, the message challenges Christians to stop negotiating with evil and instead receive the courage of the Holy Spirit to confront it with faith, sacrifice, and love. As the Church waits for Pentecost, we are reminded that God does not simply protect us from danger—He strengthens us to stand for His glory in the world.

Focus and Purpose - Rev. Fr. Vijay Thomas

Why does the Church return to Luke 9 during the season of Resurrection? In this powerful homily, the focus turns to Christ “setting His face toward Jerusalem” and what that reveals about the heart of salvation. From the Cross to the Ascension and ultimately to Pentecost, Jesus remains unwavering in His desire to bring humanity into communion with God. Reflecting on the cost of discipleship, the distractions of modern life, and the hope found in Christ’s steadfast love, this message calls us to refocus our lives on the love of God—even when we fail. Through His unwavering journey to the Cross, Christ makes us worthy to receive the fire of the Holy Spirit.

When Love Is Tested - His Grace Zachariah Mar Nicholovos

Peter’s journey reveals a faith marked by zeal, failure, and restoration. In this homily, we are invited to examine our own relationship with Christ: Is our love conditional, or is it rooted in true commitment? Through Christ’s repeated question—“Do you love Me more than these?”—we are called to reorder our priorities and grow into a deeper, enduring love.