Jesus knew exactly what was happening. He knew these people were there for the miracles; they were desperate for him to heal their families and wanted him to be the Savior they had imagined.

But in just a few days, that same crowd would be the ones standing before the governor, demanding a crucifixion. It’s a reflection of how we are as human beings. We’re not always stable. One day we’re worshiping and praising, and the next, we’re ready to throw stones at the very same person. There’s just no consistency in us.

Jesus understood this. He knew that even now—after everything they had seen—they didn't truly get it. They hadn't realized that He is the Savior who brings a spiritual salvation, not just a temporary fix.

So today, let’s try to walk the path with Christ. Let’s remember that we carry the cross every day. Maybe this happened so we could see that even when people were torturing him—even when those who should have been by his side turned away—he remained constant.

Fr. Alexandros Pretorian of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church explains the profound significance of the resurrection of Lazarus, which is celebrated on the Saturday before Holy Week. April 4, 2026

The Divine Delay: Fr. Alexandros discusses why Jesus intentionally waited four days before arriving at Lazarus's tomb. By this time, physical decay had begun, leaving no room for rumors—common at the time—that the person was merely sleeping or that "magic" was involved.

Victory Over Death: The miracle serves as the ultimate proof that Christ is the Lord of Life and Death. It was intended to solidify the faith of the Apostles and the community before they witnessed Christ’s own upcoming Passion and crucifixion.

The Humanity of Christ: The sermon reflects on Jesus being "troubled" and moved to sorrow. Fr. Alexandros explains this wasn't just due to the death of His friend, but also because of the unbelief of those around Him, even after they had witnessed many other signs .

Preparation for Holy Week: The "Saturday of Lazarus" acts as a gateway to Holy Week. It provides the faithful with the strength and hope needed to walk beside Christ through His suffering, knowing that the Resurrection is the final truth.

Sunday of St. Mary of Egypt.  This sermon is presented in Greek and English and reflects upon the Gospel of Mark 10:32-45. Themes highlighted are: "Wondering About Miracles" , "First Shall Be Last", "The Lack of Humility", St Mary of Egypt.

This bilingual sermon is presented in Greek and English

March 22, 2026

Gospel of Mark 9:17 - 31

Weekly Sunday sermon presented by Fr. Alexandros Pretorian of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, Roslindale, MA in Greek and English. ©Areti Bratsis , 2026

In this message, Fr. Alexandros explores the profound call to "take up your cross" and what it truly means to follow in the footsteps of Christ during our Lenten journey. Gospel of Mark 8:34-38; 9:1

This week's lesson focuses on The Second Sunday of Lent with a Message on Friendship as Illustrated by Christ In the Gospel of Mark 2:1-12.

Sunday Sermon Series by Fr. Alexandros Pretorian, of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, Roslindale, MA on the Sunday of Orthodoxy.

 This sermon is presented in Greek and English. This Sunday-the first Sunday of the Great Lent, is the Sunday that is trying to remind us and to teach us what we are, what is our identity, above all. We are first Orthodox Christians and after that, whatever we are by heritage or by land.

This week's lesson focuses on Beginning Holy Lent with Forgiveness and Humility. In the Gospel of Matthew 6:14-21 Christ reminds us to fast, without becoming hypocrites.

Matthew 25:31-46

Fr. Alexandros Pretorian from St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, Roslidale, MA invites you to his weekly sermon. Kontakion of Judgment (Meatfare) Sun. O God, when You come upon the earth in glory, the whole world will tremble. A river of fire will bring all before Your Judgment Seat and the books will be opened, and everything in secret will become public. At that time, deliver me from the fire which never dies, and enable me to stand by Your right hand, O Judge most just.

As we enter the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee, Fr. Alexandros Pretorian of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church (Roslindale, MA) delivers a profound call to spiritual honesty. This sermon marks the beginning of our journey toward Holy Lent, focusing on the theme of "Sincerity of Heart." "There is no hiding, for God knows all." In this podcast highlight, Fr. Alexandros explains that Lent is not just about rules, but a "great opportunity for us to be sincere with ourselves, with one another, and with God." He challenges us to move beyond the masks we wear—the pride of the Pharisee or the shame of the Tax Collector—to simply become "people of God" once again.

This bilingual sermon is presented in Greek and English.

The Healing of the Ten Lepers "Where are the nine?"

In this sermon based on the Gospel of Luke 17:12-19, Fr. Alexandros Pretorian of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church (Roslindale, MA) explores the spiritual necessity of gratitude. While ten were healed of their physical affliction, only one—a Samaritan—returned to fall at the feet of Christ in thanks. Fr. Alexandros discusses how we often approach God with our "shopping list" of needs, but frequently forget to return with a "sacrifice of praise."

This message serves as a reminder that true faith is found in a grateful heart. This sermon is presented in Greek and English.

In this sermon based on the Gospel of Luke 17:12-19, Fr. Alexandros Pretorian of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church (Roslindale, MA) explores the spiritual necessity of gratitude. While ten were healed of their physical affliction, only one—a Samaritan—returned to fall at the feet of Christ in thanks. Fr. Alexandros discusses how we often approach God with our "shopping list" of needs, but frequently forget to return with a "sacrifice of praise."

This message serves as a reminder that true faith is found in a grateful heart. This sermon is presented in Greek and English.

St. John The Baptist

Fr. Alexandros Pretorian's sermon in Greek and English

On this Sunday before the Great Feast of Epiphany, Fr. Alexandros Pretorian of St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church (Roslindale, MA) explores the profound meaning of Metanoia through the Gospel of Mark 1:1-8. True repentance is more than just feeling sorry; it is a radical "changing of the mind" and a redirection of our entire lives toward Christ. As we prepare for the Baptism of our Lord, Fr. Alexandros discusses how St. John the Baptist’s call to the Jordan remains a vital invitation for us today.

This Bilingual sermon is presented in Greek and English

Why do we celebrate the Circumcision of Our Lord?

January 1st Sermon Join Fr. Alexandros Pretorian at St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Roslindale, MA, as we celebrate the Feast of the Circumcision of our Lord and the Feast of St. Basil the Great. Many ask: Why is this event significant in the life of Christ? In this sermon, Fr. Alexandros explains how this act fulfills the Old Covenant and proves the true humanity of Jesus. As we begin 2026, we also look to the life of St. Basil for guidance on living a life of charity and deep faith.

This sermon is in Greek and English.