About this episode

The episode explores the concept of repentance in Orthodoxy as a healing return to God, featuring a discussion on the Parable of the Prodigal Son.

What if repentance isn’t about punishment, shame, or self-improvement... but about coming home ? In this episode, Dr. Michael Christian & John are joined by Fr. Michael Butler (Avg2Alpha) for a deep, pastoral conversation on the Parable of the Prodigal Son & the Church’s wisdom in placing it at the heart of the Triodion, just before Great Lent begins. Together, they explore repentance not as despair or moral failure, but as return... a healing movement of the whole person: body, soul, & attention. From shame & resentment to mercy, discipline, & sonship, this episode speaks especially to those who feel scattered, exhausted, or quietly resentful while trying to “do everything right.” This is not a call to perform better. It’s an invitation to come home. This conversation is part of the Triodion mini-arc leading into Great Lent, focusing on the Church’s preparation of the heart before ascetic effort begins. Episode 48 centers on the Prodigal Son; the next episode continues with Meatfare Sunday & the call to mercy in love of neighbor. Takeaways: Repentance in Orthodoxy is not self-hatred, but reorientation & return God meets us exactly where we are, but…

People in this episode

Hosts: Dr. Michael Christian, John

Guest: Fr. Michael Butler

Topics covered

• repentance
• healing of the soul
• Orthodox Christianity
• spiritual growth
• mercy
• self-improvement

Keywords

• repentance
• Prodigal Son
• Orthodox Church
• spiritual healing
• Great Lent
• mercy
• self-improvement
• discipline
• confession

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Triodion

Books & works: The Prodigal Son

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