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What happens when someone raised Mormon begins questioning everything they were taught about God, salvation, the Church, and Jesus Christ? In this episode of the Raised & Redeemed Podcast, I sit down with Sunny to hear her story of growing up Mormon, leaving the LDS Church, walking through a season of rebellion, returning to the Lord, and ultimately discovering Orthodox Christianity. Sunny shares what it was really like growing up in Mormonism, including the differences between LDS and FLDS beliefs, what happens inside Mormon temples, Mormon sacraments and theology, and why many Mormons are known for living seemingly Christ-like lives. We also talk about some of the common misconceptions about Mormonism, the questions that eventually led Sunny to leave the LDS Church, and some of the more unusual beliefs within Mormon theology. Subscribe to Raised & Redeemed for conversations about Orthodox Christianity, conversion, spiritual warfare, healing in Christ, and the journey of becoming raised and redeemed. #Mormonism #OrthodoxChristianity #LDS #LeavingMormonism #ChristianTestimony ---------------------------------------------------- Ads Mentioned: 👩‍💻☦️ Theos Sisters: https://www.skool.com/beloved-becoming-3448/about 👨‍💻☦️ Masculine Revival: https://masculinerevival.com/ 🫐🥦 Gruns: https://snwbl.io/gruns/MICHAELA11855 🧸🧼 Papabear Naturals: https://www.thepapabear.com/MICHAELA66996 ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-2:09 intro 2:09-3:53 growing up Mormon 3:53-5:20 FLDS vs LDS 5:20-8:02 growing up Mormon 8:02-11:00 inside Mormon temples 11:00-15:00 Mormon sacraments & theology 15:00-18:07 why are Mormons often so Christ-like? 18:07-19:00 misconceptions about Mormonism 19:00-23:44 leaving Mormonism 23:44-27:33 some weird things Mormons believe 27:33-28:15 Theos Sisters Ad 28:15-28:46 Masculine Revival Ad 28:46-34:22 The questions that will lead you out of Mormonism 34:22-39:25 the dark path of rebellion after Mormonism 39:25-41:36 coming back to the Lord 41:36-43:21 how she met her husband 43:21-58:59 coming to orthodoxy 58:59-1:01:06 recommitting to purity 1:01:06-1:06:30 listener questions 1:06:30-1:07:12 closing

What does healing from our childhood trauma look like as Orthodox Christians? In this deeply personal conversation, Michaela Nikolaenko sits down with Christina Taylor of Orthodox Family Life to talk honestly about growing up in dysfunctional families, the lasting effects of childhood trauma, learning to forgive our parents, and discovering healing through Christ and His Church. Both Michaela and Christina share from their own experiences of difficult childhoods and the ways those experiences shaped their understanding of trust, relationships, authority, love, and God. Together, they explore what it can look like to bring those wounds before Christ rather than allowing them to define our lives. Healing does not mean pretending that the past didn't happen. It means bringing what is broken into the light of Christ and allowing Him to begin the work of restoration. If you have experienced childhood trauma, family dysfunction, abandonment, abuse, difficult relationships with your parents, or struggles with trusting God or the Church, we hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone, and that Christ is near to the brokenhearted. Subscribe for more conversations about Orthodox Christianity, healing in Christ, spiritual growth, motherhood, testimony, and the Orthodox Christian life. #OrthodoxChristianity #HealingInChrist #ChildhoodTrauma #ChristianHealing #TraumaHealing #Forgiveness #OrthodoxChristian ---------------------------------------------------- Find Christina Taylor: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orthodoxfamilylife/ YouTube: youtube.com/@orthodoxfamilylife Skool: https://www.skool.com/orthodox-family-life-2544/about? ---------------------------------------------------- Ads Mentioned: 👩‍💻☦️ Theos Sisters: https://www.skool.com/beloved-becoming-3448/about 👨‍💻☦️ Masculine Revival: https://masculinerevival.com/ 🫐🥦 Gruns: https://snwbl.io/gruns/MICHAELA11855 🧸🧼 Papabear Naturals: https://www.thepapabear.com/MICHAELA66996 ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-2:24 intro 2:24-11:36 growing up in dysfunction 11:36-19:43 learning to forgive our parents 19:43-20:25 Theos Sisters Ad 20:25-20:56 Masculine Revival Ad 20:56-28:42 how dysfunction impacts development 28:42-36:02 God is close to the broken hearted 36:02-39:36 The Church unites us 39:36-42:26 becoming convinced of orthodoxy 42:26-47:55 did you struggle with having a priest after trauma? 47:55-51:28 building our capacity to bear God’s love 51:28-56:51 alone with God together 56:51-1:04:01 trusting God in hard times 1:04:01-1:04:31 Gruns Ad 1:04:31-1:05:00 Papabear Naturals Ad 1:05:00-1:13:12 embracing mother Mary after trauma 1:13:12-1:40:09 how to heal in the Church 1:40:09-1:43:13 Closing

What does Orthodox Christianity have to say about alternative medicine, yoga, meditation, herbology, acupuncture, psychedelics, and even Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? In this episode of Raised & Redeemed, Michaela Nikolaenko sits down with Dr. Michael Christian Kuhn, Doctor of Health Sciences, functional health and nutrition consultant, founder of Orthodox Health, host of the Orthodox Health Podcast, and author of Orthodoxy and the Medicine of the Future: Rediscovering the Healing Power of Fasting, Prayer, and Holy Tradition*. We explore the complicated intersection of physical health, alternative medicine, natural remedies, spiritual discernment, and Orthodox Christianity. Dr. Mike shares how his journey through alternative health ultimately led him to Orthodoxy, including the influence of Fr. Seraphim Rose and his book Orthodoxy and the Religion of the Future. We discuss the important distinction between using natural approaches to care for the body and participating in practices that may carry an Eastern, New Age, or other spiritual worldview. Can yoga be “baptized” into Christianity? Is meditation always spiritually dangerous, or is the Jesus Prayer fundamentally different from Eastern meditation? What about herbology and acupuncture? Why might psychedelics exist? Can Brazilian Jiu Jitsu be spiritually safe? And how can Orthodox Christians learn to discern the difference? #OrthodoxChristianity #Orthodoxy #AlternativeMedicine ---------------------------------------------------- Dr. Mike's Website: https://www.orthodoxhealth.com/ Dr. Mike on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/orthodox_health/ ---------------------------------------------------- Ads: Theos Sisters: https://www.skool.com/beloved-becoming-3448/about Masculine Revival: https://masculinerevival.com/ Gruns: https://snwbl.io/gruns/MICHAELA11855 Papabear Naturals: https://www.thepapabear.com/MICHAELA66996 ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-2:05 Intro to Dr Mike 2:05-5:50 Fr Seraphim Rose’s Inspo 5:50-12:14 Alternative health led him to Orthodoxy 12:14-17:22 Can yoga be baptized? 17:22-20:29 the Jesus prayer versus eastern yoga and meditation 20:29-26:24 Christ the Eternal Tao 26:24-27:06 Theos Sisters Ad 27:06-27:37 Masculine Revival Ad 27:37-37:20 All religious traditions lead to Orthodoxy 37:20-39:11 Orthodox views on mental health industry 39:11-44:38 An Orthodox economy 44:38-54:35 Herbology & the extent it can be baptized 54:35-55:06 Gruns Ad 55:06-55:35 Papabear Naturals Ad 55:35-1:00:19 Some natural remedies 1:00:19-1:07:52 Can acupuncture be baptized? 1:07:52-1:13:29 Orthodoxy isn’t black and white 1:13:29-1:19:08 Why are psychedelics on earth? 1:19:08-1:24:23 Learning to Orthodox fast 1:24:23-1:33:27 Is BJJ spiritually safe? 1:33:27-1:36:37 How to discern if practices are spiritually safe 1:36:37-1:38:02 Find Dr Mike

Can Orthodox Christians go to therapy? Where should we turn when we’re struggling—to a priest, a therapist, or both? And how do we understand trauma, mental health, and spiritual warfare through an Orthodox Christian lens? In this episode, I sit down with Fr. Timothy Pavlatos, an Orthodox priest and counselor with 25+ years of experience integrating psychology, therapy, and Orthodox theology. We discuss trauma, somatic practices, yoga, Carl Jung, mental health diagnoses, addiction, spiritual warfare, and, ultimately, the fullness of healing offered through the life of the Church. If this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who has been wrestling with these questions. #OrthodoxChristianity #MentalHealth #OrthodoxChurch #Therapy #SpiritualWarfare ---------------------------------------------------- Find & Support St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church: https://stkatherineaz.org/capital-campaign ---------------------------------------------------- Resources from Fr. Timothy on the topic: - https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/illuminedheart/orthodox_christian_psychological_therapy/ - https://www.byzcath.org/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/70034/article-orthodoxy-and-the-science-of-psychology - https://stmichaeltx.org/orthodox-101/living-orthodoxy-daily/can-orthodox-christians-go-to-therapy/ - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t5cGEAeIvNQ Books Fr. Timothy Recommended: - Fr. Stephen Muse: When Hearts Become Flame - Fr. Joshua Makoul: Healing Your Wounded Soul: Growing from Pain to Peace. - Father Alexis Trader: Ancient Christian Wisdom and Aaron Beck’s Cognitive Therapy: A Meeting of Minds - Fr. Vasileios Thermos: Thirst for Love and Truth: Encounters of Orthodox Theology and Psychological Science. - Schema-nun Siluana Vlad: God, Where is the Wound? ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-2:39 intro 2:39-6:40 Michaela’s background 6:40-10:23 Orthodox view on therapy 10:23-15:49 Is therapy just a bridge? 15:49-21:15 What to tell a priest vs therapist? 21:15-29:48 trauma healing approaches 29:48-37:40 somatic practices for re-association 37:40-42:49 orthodox view on yoga 42:49-49:03 Who is therapy for? 49:03-51:02 Should Orthodox Christians see Orthodox therapists? 51:02-54:03 Fr Timothy’s career journey 54:03-59:29 Spiritual warfare in the mind 59:29-1:09:43 An Orthodox view on Carl Jung 1:09:43-1:15:08 Should we accept mental health diagnoses? 1:15:08-1:19:47 addictions programs 1:19:47-1:25:32 The fullness of healing in the Orthodox Church 1:25:32-1:26:38 Closing

This is our first year participating in the Dormition fast, and it's so amazing the way you learn and grow in the faith just by TRYING to live liturgically -- even if you do it imperfectly. I also realized some of the internet crazies come out during the time of fasts, so I'll be responding to some of the criticisms I got online during this time. Lord have mercy on us! Goarch.org: https://www.goarch.org/-/learn-to-chant-paraklesis #orthodoxchristianwomen #dormitionfast #internetorthodoxy ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-00:38 intro 00:38-7:26 The Dormition fast 7:26-12:46 burnout and judging others 12:46-15:42 locking in with our friends 15:42-19:35 internet controversy 19:35-32:16 angel reaction 32:16-33:00 Closing 33:00-34:02 Seeking Theosis Planner 34:02-35:14 Prayer to the Most Holy Theotokos

Have questions about Orthodox Christianity but don't yet have an Orthodox Priest you can ask? In this episode, I speak with Fr. Philip at St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church in Lake Worth, Florida, to answer some of the biggest, and most misunderstood, questions people have about the Orthodox faith. We cover everything from what to expect when visiting an Orthodox church for the first time, why Orthodox Christians pray for the departed, Confession, Holy Water, the Church calendar, to deeper conversations about Native American spiritual traditions, psychedelics, marijuana, and Fr. Philip's own journey to Orthodoxy. Whether you're Orthodox, Protestant, Catholic, exploring Christianity, or simply curious about the ancient Church, I hope this conversation gives you clarity and encourages you to take one step closer to Christ. Find or Support St. Herman of Alaska Church 👉 https://sthermanflorida.org/ If you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone exploring Orthodox Christianity. #OrthodoxChristianity #OrthodoxChurch #ChurchTour ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:48 Intro 1:48-2:52 St Herman of Alaska History 2:52-4:16 How to Greet an Orthodox Priest 4:16-9:30 What to Wear to an Orthodox Church 9:30-10:57 Entering the Church 10:57-12:39 North American Saints 12:39-15:40 The 12 Feasts 15:40-20:51 Julian vs Gregorian Calendar 20:51-22:29 The 12 Feasts Cont'd 22:29-26:42 Traditions We Are (and Aren't) Cancelling 26:42-28:12 Protestants Remaking the Wheel 28:12-30:21 The Welcome Table 30:21-36:10 Why Do We Pray for the Departed? 36:10-37:12 Places for Prayer 37:12-42:30 Holy Confession 42:30-45:21 Holy Water & Overcoming Demons 45:21-54:54 Native American Spiritual Traditions 54:54-1:03:49 Psychedelics 1:03:49-1:08:00 Marijuana vs the Eucharist 1:08:00-1:20:30 Fr. Philip's Journey to Orthodoxy 1:20:30-1:22:33 The Iconostasis 1:22:33-1:23:57 Coffee Hour 1:23:57-1:24:14 Closing

If Satanism is a counterfeit of Orthodox Christianity, then doesn't that reveal deep truths to us about the fullness of the Christian faith? In this eye-opening conversation, former Satanist, Erika MacDougall, explains how darkness imitates what is holy, how demons influence art and culture, and how Christ led her from deception into the fullness of the Orthodox faith. Together, we explore the spiritual realities behind Satanism, New Age, light workers and dark workers, yoga, Hindu deities, art and culture, sexuality, abortion, motherhood, and iconography. Erika also shares the remarkable story of how she left Satanism, escaped a toxic spiritual relationship, and found healing in the Orthodox Church. Whether you're exploring Christianity, recovering from the occult, or simply curious about the unseen spiritual battle around us, this conversation offers both discernment and hope. If this conversation encouraged you, consider subscribing for more conversations on Orthodox Christianity, spiritual healing, testimony, and the journey toward Christ. Watch the extended convo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i64Ze9IVn5Y&t=14s #OrthodoxChristianity #Satanism #ExSatanist ---------------------------------------------------- Follow Erika: https://www.instagram.com/shireskincare/ Shop Shire Skincare: https://shireskincare.com/ ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-2:37 intro 2:37-8:31 how did she become a satanist 8:31-12:47 yoga, Hindu gods and demons 12:47-19:56 opening portals to darkness 19:56-22:25 the prodigal children 22:25-27:19 the way art can be demonically influenced 27:19-30:47 sexual perversion in our culture 30:47-40:19 from hating wholesome things to love in motherhood 40:19-47:18 what happened when she started reading the bible 47:18-52:32 leaving a toxic relationship with a demon 52:32-56:14 iconography saved her life 56:14-1:05:21 why the demons want child sacrifice 1:05:21-1:10:13 becoming orthodox 1:10:13-1:11:54 why we don’t remove our tattoos 1:11:54-1:14:45 closing

What is the purpose of suffering in Orthodox Christianity? Why does God allow suffering? Why do good people suffer? Is there actually a purpose for the pain? In this episode, we explore the Orthodox Christian understanding of suffering as one of the primary ways God transforms us into His likeness. We'll read through Scripture together and examine what Christ, the Apostles, and the early Church teach about trials, suffering, healing, and hope. We'll also discuss why modern culture often misunderstands suffering, my thoughts on therapy through an Orthodox lens, and how embracing hardship can actually deepen our communion with God. Whether you're new to Orthodoxy, exploring Christianity, or walking through a difficult season, I hope this conversation encourages you. ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-00:54 intro 00:54-3:43 orthodox view on suffering 3:43-6:16 my beef with therapy 6:16-9:18 let’s read scripture together 9:18-12:00 Matthew 5:1-12 The Beatitudes 12:00-13:18 Matthew 16:24 Jesus’ Work: His Passion & Resurrection 13:18-15:07 Matthew 26:26 Institution of the Eucharist 15:07-17:45 Matthew 27:46 The Death of Jesus 17:45-20:09 Mark 5:25-29 The Woman with the flow of blood 20:09-23:15 John 9:1-3 The Man Born Blind Sees 23:15-24:56 Acts 5:41 Apostolic Evangelism 24:56-26:08 Orthodox Women’s Book Club 26:08-29:08 Romans 8:18-24 The Spirit Assists Us Through Suffering 29:08-33:54 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 Sharing Suffering, Sharing Comfort 33:54-35:55 Philippians 1:29 35:55-37:25 James 1:2 The Purpose of Trials 37:25-39:05 1 Peter 1:6 Tested for Genuine Faith 39:05-41:34 1 Peter 4:12 Prepare for the End by Suffering 41:34-42:54 Wounded by Love Book Club 42:54-44:28 What’s next

Backpacking across the country to "find himself," panhandling in Las Vegas, and hitchhiking to Burning Man, Landon Scates never expected he would have found Christ instead. But on the long desert road home, everything changed. In this episode, Landon shares his full testimony from his early departure from God, through dark and disorienting years on the road, to an unexpected encounter with the light of Christ. We also talk honestly about what came after: the born-again-to-charismatic pipeline, the deception he encountered in deliverance ministries, and how he ultimately found rest and true healing in the ancient Orthodox Church. If you've ever wondered whether God can reach someone in the middle of nowhere — literally — this conversation is for you. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this helpful! #christiantestimony #hitchhiker #orthodoxchristian ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00–2:05 — Intro 2:05–5:59 — Landon's Childhood Faith 5:59–8:32 — The Final Step Away from God 8:32–10:26 — Living in the World Without God 10:26–15:31 — Seeking Meaning and Feeling Stuck 15:31–18:55 — Exploring the Occult 18:55–19:20 — Membership Ad 19:20–30:01 — Backpacking to Find Himself 30:01–34:52 — An Unexpected Driver 34:52–36:14 — Panhandling in Vegas 36:14–40:27 — Hitchhiking to Burning Man 40:27–41:02 — Orthodox Icons Corona Ad 41:02–45:44 — A Call from Heaven 45:44–49:25 — Learning to Follow God 49:25–53:07 — Falling into Charismatic Christianity 53:07–55:02 — Working Out Our Salvation 55:02–58:41 — Getting "Possessed" in Deliverance Ministries 58:41–59:42 — True Healing in the Church 59:42–1:06:10 — Protestant & Home Church Deceptions 1:06:10–1:15:31 — Seeking the True Church 1:15:31–1:19:00 — Miracles Are Happening

Before I knew Christ, I read birth charts, taught yoga, and believed my Sun, Moon, and Rising sign were the key to my identity and destiny. In this episode of the Occult to Orthodoxy series, I'm sharing my honest journey from astrology to Orthodox Christianity — the history of astrology, what the Bible and Church Fathers say about it, and why the Magi following a star actually points us AWAY from astrology and toward Christ. We'll cover: ✨ Where astrology really came from (ancient Babylon to modern psychology) ✨ What Scripture says about astrology and divination ✨ Why your natal chart might "feel accurate" — and what's really behind that ✨ The Orthodox Christian view on fate, free will, and identity in Christ ✨ How God used a star to lead the Magi to Jesus (and what that actually means) This is part 16 of my Occult to Orthodoxy series, where I share my testimony of leaving New Age spirituality for Orthodox Christianity. If you've ever felt tied to your zodiac sign, tarot, or horoscopes — this episode is for you. #astrology #orthodoxchristianity #occulttoorthodoxy #deconstruction #christiantestimony #zodiac #natalchart #fromnewagetojesus #orthodoxy #raisedandredeemed 📌 If this resonates, please: ✅ Subscribe for Part 17 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series ✅ Share this with someone who’s spiritually searching ✅ Leave a comment with topics you want me to address ✅ Join my membership for specific inquiries and response videos ---------------------------------------------------- Primary Orthodox Sources: • Fr. Stephen De Young & Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick, ‘Taught by a Star to Worship the Sun of Righteousness,’ Lord of Spirits Podcast, Ancient Faith Ministries, December 24, 2020. ancientfaith.com/podcasts/lordofspirits/taught_by_a_star • Deacon Seraphim Rohlin & Joshua Sturgill, ‘The Art of Imitating Heaven,’ The Symbolic World Podcast, Episode 431, January 20, 2026. thesymbolicworld.com • Jonathan Pageau, ‘On Astrology,’ The Symbolic World (clip from June 2020 Q&A). • Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, ‘Astrology is Astrolatry.’ goarch.org ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:01 Intro 1:01-4:48 Some personal confessions 4:48-7:07 My experience with astrology 7:07-8:08 What is astrology 8:08-10:20 The origins of astrology 10:20-12:05 Hebrew and jewish astrology 12:05-14:51 Lord of Spirits Summary: The star and the magi 14:51-19:46 Why astrology is spiritually dangerous 19:45-26:49 The Orthodox view on astrology 26:49-28:43 What actually leads to our natural inclinations 28:43-29:12 Orthodox resources on astrology 29:12-29:42 Outro

Have you ever visited a psychic medium or watched psychics on TV and wondered how they know the things they know? In Part 15 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series, we're pulling back the curtain on psychic mediums and spirit communication: what they are, what they claim to do, where these practices came from, and what is actually happening in those sessions from an Orthodox Christian perspective. We cover: 🕯️ What psychics and mediums actually do (clairvoyance, clairsentience, trance mediumship, channeling, and more) 🕯️ The ancient history of necromancy and how it became a living room staple 🕯️ Why psychics are sometimes accurate (and what the Church says about that) 🕯️ What Scripture and the Church Fathers say about consulting the dead 🕯️ The difference between praying to the Saints and visiting a psychic medium 🕯️ What the Orthodox Church actually offers to grieving people, people seeking life direction, and people hungry for real spiritual connection Whether you came to psychics out of grief, curiosity, or just thought it was harmless fun -- this episode will give you honest, grounded answers rooted in two thousand years of Church wisdom. #psychicmedium #orthodoxchristianity #psychics #psychicsexposed 📌 If this resonates, please: ✅ Subscribe for Part 16 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series ✅ Share this with someone who’s spiritually searching ✅ Leave a comment with topics you want me to address ✅ Join my membership for specific inquiries and response videos ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:29 Intro 1:29-4:12 Personal & Show Updates 4:12-4:52 Thank you members ❤️ 4:52-6:19 What is a psychic 6:19-9:08 Why I wanted to be a psychic 9:08-10:49 Sylvia Browne Debunked 10:49-12:46 History of Psychics 12:45-15:48 Biblical Examples of Psychics 15:48-19:58 Orthodox View on Psychics 19:58-21:06 What the the grieving 21:06-22:27 Why Praying to Saints isn’t the same 22:27-23:56 How we find life guidance 23:56-24:18 Closing

It was the desire to heal my inner childhood trauma that first hooked me into the occult and New Age spirituality. What I didn't know then: the adult self that's supposed to do the reparenting is also broken, and we cannot be our own saviors. In this episode, I break down what inner child work actually is, where it came from (Jung, Bradshaw, IFS, and more), how the New Age spiritualized it into something spiritually dangerous, and what the Orthodox Church offers instead. We also talk about ACA (Adult Children of Alcoholics), why I think recovery programs can be a real bridge toward God, and what Saint Paisios of Mount Athos had to say about healing wounded hearts... advice that would shock any modern therapist. If you've ever done inner child work, if you grew up in a broken home, or if you're just tired of circling your wounds without getting free, this one is for you. ⟶ Missed Episode 13 on Shadow Work? Start there first — these two go together. #innerchildhealing #orthodoxchristianity #newagetoChristian #occulttoorthodoxy #innerchild 📌 If this resonates, please: ✅ Subscribe for Part 15 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series ✅ Share this with someone who’s spiritually searching ✅ Leave a comment with topics you want me to address ✅ Join my membership for specific inquiries and response videos ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:58 Intro 1:58-4:11 What is the inner child? 4:11-9:11 The history of inner child healing 9:11-9:48 Orthodox Icons Corona Ad 9:48-11:29 Orthodox Views on Inner Child Therapy 11:29-14:27 New Age Inner Child Healing 14:27-16:41 ACA & Recovery Models 16:41-21:10 How Our Inner Child Heals in the Church 21:10-21:41 Closing

What are the spiritual dangers of shadow work? Isn't it just a therapeutic technique of healing your inner traumas? Or is is something darker, like embracing your inner demons? In this episode of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series, I break down: — What shadow work actually is and where it came from — Why Carl Jung's framework is fundamentally incompatible with Orthodox Christian anthropology — What Orthodox Fathers say about Jung's "pseudo-religion" — The key difference between Jungian integration and Orthodox transfiguration — The ancient Church practices that address the very same human need — and go infinitely further The Orthodox Church doesn't offer shadow work. It offers something far greater: not integration, but resurrection. 🕊️ As always, please seek guidance from your own spiritual father on everything related to your spiritual life. This is Part 13 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series. New here? Start from Part 1 and work your way through. #ShadowWork #OrthodoxChristianity #CarlJung #OccultToOrthodoxy #NewAge #Theosis #InnerHealing #ShadowSelf #ChristianResponse 📌 If this resonates, please: ✅ Subscribe for Part 14 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series ✅ Share this with someone who’s spiritually searching ✅ Leave a comment with topics you want me to address ✅ Join my membership for specific inquiries and response videos ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:34 My background 1:34-3:17 What is shadow work? 3:17-5:58 The history of shadow work 5:58-7:24 My experience with shadow work 7:24-8:32 We are called to forget our past 8:32-10:18 Therapy requires discernment 10:18-14:10 Orthodox perspectives on Jungian psychology 14:10-16:07 The passions vs the shadow 16:07-16:45 Orthodox Icons Corona Ad 16:45-19:07 True Healing happens in the Church 19:07-19:58 Conclusion

What is the twin flame and soulmate deception? In this episode of the Occult to Orthodoxy series, we are exposing the dark reality behind the New Age concepts of Twin Flames and Soulmates. While the world tells you that searching for your "other half" is the path to spiritual ascension, Orthodox Christianity warns that this pursuit often leads to idolatry, trauma bonding, and the destruction of the soul. If you’ve watched the Escaping Twin Flames documentary or feel trapped in a "tumultuous" spiritual connection, this video is for you. Learn the difference between a "fiery" counterfeit and the sacrificial, healing love found in the Sacrament of Marriage. In this video, we cover: ✅ The pagan origins of the Twin Flame and soulmate myths ✅ Why Orthodoxy teaches your soul is ALREADY whole and unique ✅ How "Mirror Souls" are often used to justify unhealthy relationships ✅ The Orthodox view of Marriage as a "Crown of Sacrifice" and martyrdom "If you are chasing a 'flame' that is burning down your life, it’s time to let it go—and find the Light that never fades." #TwinFlame #NewAge #OrthodoxChristianity #Soulmate #SpiritualDelusion #OccultToOrthodoxy #ChristianTestimony #TwinFlameTrap #Orthodoxy #SpiritualWarfare 📌 If this resonates, please: ✅ Subscribe for Part 13 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series ✅ Share this with someone who’s spiritually searching ✅ Leave a comment with topics you want me to address ✅ Join my membership for specific inquiries and response videos ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:08 Intro 1:08-3:22 What is a twin flame? 3:22-4:24 Where did soulmates originate?4:24-6:54 Orthodox objections to twin flame 6:54-8:15 My twin flame testimony 8:15-9:50 The Orthodox View on Marriage 9:50-10:27 Orthodox Icons Corona Ad 10:27-11:21 Conclusion

What is an Orthodox Christian view on past lives? In this episode, we discuss: 💡 The ancient origins of reincarnation (India, Greece, and beyond) 💡 How these beliefs made their way into modern New Age spirituality 💡 My personal testimony of believing I was a witch and temple prostitute in past lives 💡 The Orthodox concept of prelest (spiritual delusion) and how demons distort identity 💡 Why reincarnation contradicts the Gospel and the Cross of Christ 💡 What actually happens after death according to the Orthodox Church 💡 How to renounce false identities and discover who God truly created you to be This isn’t just theology—it’s about your identity, your soul, and your eternity. Scripture Highlight: 📖 “It is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.” — Hebrews 9:27 If you’re coming out of New Age, occult practices, or questioning reincarnation… this video is for you. 📌 If this resonates, please: ✅ Subscribe for Part 12 of the Occult to Orthodoxy Series ✅ Share this with someone who’s spiritually searching ✅ Leave a comment with topics you want me to address ✅ Join my membership for specific inquiries and response videos 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this helpful! #pastlives #reincarnation #orthodoxchristian ---------------------------------------------------- 🌐 Explore More: ALL LINKS → https://beacons.ai/michaelanikolaenko Website → www.michaelanikolaenko.com 🎙️ Listen to the Podcast:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisedandredeemed 🎥 Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCn2x_6If3KUo5d9aA_7ALLw 📲 Follow Along on Socials: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/michaelanikolaenko/ TikTok → https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelanikolaenko Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/michaelanikolaenko ---------------------------------------------------- ⏳ TIMESTAMPS: 00:00-1:17 Intro 1:17- 4:20 The Roots of Reincarnation 4:20-5:51 When I Believed in Past Lives 5:51-8:23 Spiritual Dangers of Believing in Reincarnation 8:23-10:00 What Happens When We Die 10:00-12:20 Break Free From Demonic Identities 12:20-12:50 What’s Next