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Christian Counseling: Christ’s Resurrection and Bright Week

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling and Bright Week

In the Church, some people celebrate Bright Week.  Christian Counselors should encourage this tradition.  This is a week of celebration where Christians reflect upon the post Resurrection stories of Christ.  The stories where Christ met the Holy women, met the apostles in the upper room, the story of Thomas, the meeting upon the roadside and other apparitions of Christ.

Christ’s Glorified Body: A Glimpse of Our Future

During this week, we acknowledge Christ’s resurrection as a physical reality.  Christ is not a phantasm or ghost but the same body that was crucified but only glorified.  Thomas himself testifies to this when he puts his hand into the side of Christ and kisses the precious wounds of Christ’s hands and feet.
While this was the same body that was crucified, Christ’s body was glorified.  This means it was no longer subject to pain or death.  It was matter but glorified matter.  It could become transparent or vanish as willed.  This is the same body that is promised to us in the Gospel at the General Resurrection.

The General Resurrection

As we all die with Christ, we too shall rise with him.  Christ as the New Adam was the first to rise, as Adam was the first to die.  So we too shall follow in Christ’s footsteps and one day rise with him.  Hopefully our glorified bodies will rejoin our souls in Heaven and share in the Beatific Vision of Christ.
If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling courses, then please review our site

Mark Moran, MA

CHRIST IS RISEN-INDEED HE IS RISEN

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling: Christ is Risen!

Christian Counselors and all Christians can rejoice in Christ’s joyous resurrection.
While many doubt and wish to label this as a mere mythical tale, we as Christians know it is a historic and true event.
Those who doubted it where first the Jews.  In the Gospel of Matthew, Matthew points out that the high priests paid the guards to lie about the true surroundings of the resurrection.  They told the guards to lie and tell the people that the disciples stole Christ’s body.  Yet as we all know, the disciples were terrified to even leave the upper room.  All but John stayed with Christ’s mother and the holy women.
Later foolish skeptics would even state that perhaps Jesus was not truly dead.  This theory lost ground when pointed out that the Romans were experts at execution, especially crucifixion.  Muslims would also add their theories in that Christ was magically taken down from the cross and another put in his place.
Modern skeptics completely dismiss the resurrection story as myth.  They contend Jesus rose spiritually, and the apostles taught in a mytical lanaguage.  Other modern ‘scholars’ contend the apostles merely lied.
Yet with all these doubters of the true and risen Christ, we can be assured that we will be blessed in our faith, for Christ told Thomas ‘blessed are those who have not seen and yet still believe”
Below is a quick video for all skeptics and Christians alike—our Lord’s resurrection!
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKSe9PE002o

If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling Courses, then please click here
Mark Moran, MA

How did Jesus understand death?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

The article, “How did Jesus understand his death?”, by Brian Zahnd states

“How did Jesus understand his own death?
What meaning did Jesus give to his crucifixion?
Did Jesus have a “theology of the cross”?”

American Institute Health Care Professionals’ insight:
Good article on how Jesus viewed his own death and how the secular world viewed it only to be overturned by the court of God.  Learn to understand death how God does.  If you are interested in Christian Counseling Courses, please click here
Our Christian Counseling Courses are based off of sound Christian teaching and do not deviate from the teachings of Christ.  Qualified professionals who take our Christian Counseling Courses can become certified.

See on www.patheos.com

Learning More About Christian Counseling: What is the Easter Triduum?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Learning More About Christian Counseling: Easter Triduum

Christian Counselors can better help their spiritual children prepare for Easter by teaching them the value of the Easter Triduum.  If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling the this set of feasts, then please read and enjoy
The Easter Triduum is a separate season within a the season of Lent and Holy Week.  It focuses on the final three days before the Resurrection with special emphasis on the Passion of Christ.

Holy Thursday

It begins on Holy Thursday at Seven where in the Catholic Church, a special Mass or Liturgy is offered in remembrance of the Lord’s Supper.  Within the Catholic Church, this Mass has special meaning because it both institutes the sacrament of the Eucharist within the first Mass and also institutes the priesthood.  Catholic theology sees a very intimate connection between the Last Supper and the Sacrifice of Calvary.  It through the eternal nature of Calvary that the graces of that historic event are forever poured out to the faithful through the Mass which in turn continues the tradition of the first Passover Mass of Christ.  Another beautiful tradition, found in the Latin Rite, is the priests washing of the feet of the faithful.  This pious practice allows the priest, as representing Christ, to wash the feet of his own “disciples”.
Protestantism still finds great value in this feast as well as they too remember the Lord’s Supper.  Of course within Protestantism, the Eucharist is seen as a spiritual presence or in some cases only a symbolic gesture.  Yet, the importance of the Last Supper and its ties to the sacrifice of the cross are equally revered and honored.
Holy Thursday is also meditated upon by both traditions as time to reflect upon Christ’s agony in the garden, his arrest and beatings at the hands of the Temple guards.

Good Friday

Good Friday is reserved completely for the Passion of Christ.  In the Catholic Church, this is the only day Mass or Liturgy is not offered.  The reason behind this is because of Christ’s death.  It is on this day that the only sacrifice offered is that of Christ himself.  He is the high priest of the church and all other “priests” bow before his eternal sacrifice.  Some Protestant churches during this time also offer passion plays.  These plays allow people to remember the sacrifice of Christ.  Some Protestants and Catholics both give time to reflect on the stations of the cross and in the Eastern Church, the faithful reflect on the twelve gospels leading to Christ’s death.
It is a time honored tradition on this sad day for Christians of all denominations to remove themselves from the secular world between the hours of Noon and Three and to remain in silent contemplation, prayer and fasting.

Later in the night, vespers are offered in some churches.  In the Eastern Church, an icon of Christ nailed to a cross, is unscrewed.  Symbolically, the icon is taken from the cross and then placed in a shroud of relics.  The priest then puts the shroud over his head and leads a candlelight procession around the church.  This procession commerates Christ’s death and his burial.

Holy Saturday

This is a day of great anticipation.  In the morning, especially in the Catholic and Eastern Churches, there are resurrection matins recited.  By eve, after sundown, the Church then is permitted to offer Mass or Liturgy for the Resurrection.  In many churches, Easter Baskets are blessed.  In the Eastern Church, the pashca–Easter meal is celebrated the eve of Easter.
Holy Saturday is a good day to prepare oneself for Christ’s resurrection.  As Christ was crucified, we too should feel “crucified” through our meditations during the Triduum to only be resurrected with Christ on Sunday!
If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling, then please review our site

Mark Moran, MA

Holy Thursday and the Last Supper

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling: The Lord’s Supper

One of the most spiritually nourishing elements of our faith is the body and blood of Christ.  It was not only shed as the perfect sacrifice for our sins, but is also given to us again when we remember the Lord’s supper.  This spiritual food, whether we believe it to be literal or symbolic, is a source of grace that nourishes the soul and fortifies it against sin.
Below is a short video about the Last Supper to enhance one’s spirituality for the day
httpV://www.youtube.com/watch?v=997ni1xcmKw

If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling Certifications, then please click here

AIHCP

Last Words of Christ

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling: Last Seven Words of Christ

The video below beautifully outlines Christ’s last seven words on the cross.  Have a peaceful and spiritual holy week
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcskgl8qoSk
If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling, then please click here
If you would like to become a Christian Counselor, then also review.  The program in Christian Counseling consists of core courses.  These courses help prepare qualified professionals for the academic and pastoral demands of Christian Counseling.
If you would like to become a Christian Counselor, then please review our blog also.

AIHCP

Christian Counseling Meditations for Holy Week

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling: Holy Week Meditations

A short video of classical art and music depicting Christ’s last days on Earth.  Helpful meditations for holy week
httpv://youtu.be/fR2YBMkGIOo
If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling certifications, then please review the program and click here
There are a variety of meditations to consider during this Holy Time.  Meditations from mystics or meditations from Scripture.  You can also partake in a variety of church devotions or merely have private devotions about something related to the wounds of Christ.
If you are wondering how to become a Christian Counselor, then please review our program. Our program in Christian Counseling can show you the steps it takes on how to become a Christian Counselor.
In the meantime, please enjoy the video and please feel free to review our blog.  If you have any questions, please let us know.

AIHCP

Do you want to take Christian Counseling Courses: What Does the Papacy Mean Anymore?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Do you want to take Christian Counseling Courses: The Papacy

Christian Counselors from different theological backgrounds may have differing opinions on the Papacy.  Some may see it as the vicar of Christ on Earth, while others may see it as a self entitled and political position.  Some may sway in the middle and call it a Christian symbol on Earth.  Whatever the case, Christian’s views on the Papacy usually direct their overall Christian world view on the essence of what “church” is or as theologians call it, Ecclesiology.
Some extremists may denounce the Papacy as the “whore of Babylon” while devout Catholics will defend the infallibility of the Pontiff as Christ’s successor, but what can the papacy be for the Christian world—so divided?
Please review the following ideas on this divided issue.  In the meantime, if you wish to take Christian Counseling courses, then review the program.

From a Catholic Perspective

As Francis I takes the throne of Peter, orthodox catholicism views the role of the pope as the successor of Peter.  They believe the Pope is the leader of the Church and in spiritual matters only cannot error.  This is especially the case when the Pope speaks from the throne of Peter.  Catholics do not believe the pope is perfect or is incapable of sin.  In fact, the Church has had many evil men sit on the throne of Peter throughout the centuries.
Liberal Catholics will attack the divine founding of the Petrine ministry and even the belief in infallibility which was declared at the First Vatican Council in the Nineteenth Century.
While Catholics see the Pope as the successor of Peter and Vicar of Christ, they do not consider him to replace Jesus.  In fact, the head of the Church is Christ and not the Pope.

From a Protestant Perspective

The position among Protestants is very complicated.  Some forms of Protestantism recognize a hierachy while other grass root elements of Protestantism possess no hierarchy.  Obviously, Anglicans would have a better understanding and appreciation for the Petrine Ministry than Baptists.  Some Protestants view the Pope as an important symbol of Christianity but do not follow his legal authority while others view him as the seat of the Antichrist.
For the most part, Protestantism denies a special priesthood that is beyond that of the universal priesthood of Baptism.  For these reasons, the relevance of the Pope is not seen as important to them and their spiritual relationship with Jesus.

From an Orthodox Perspective

The Orthodox have never denied the power of this Western Patriarch in the affairs of the Western Church but they do question his universal authority.  Before the schism, the Pope was seen as a first among equals.  The five Patriarchal Sees of Rome, Antioch, Jerusalem, Alexandria and Constantinople ruled the early Church.  The successor of Peter was acknowledged in Rome but his political power did not filter into the management of the other autonomous churches.  As Rome became more powerful, the See of Rome became more prestigious which led to political dissention.  After the fall of Rome, the East especially resented Roman pride as Rome became a stable to the barbarians.  Through cultural and political shifts, the two churches fell away from each other.  While some Eastern Churches retain union with Rome, most of the East remains separated, not recognizing the Pope’s legal authority outside of his See.  They possible could view him as a center of unity but any matters of authority within their churches would be rejected.

A non-Christian Perspective

For non-Christians, especially Jews, Muslims, and Easterners, the Pope plays a pivotal role as a statemen for religious and human dignity.  While the Papacy is not free from political corruption and bad political decisions within its past, it still for the most part, especially in recent years, proven to be a champion of the poor and those who are afflicted and have no voice.

What Does History Have to Say?

Whether Catholic, Orthodox or Protestant, history does support a hierarchy within the early Church.  Via apostolic succession, Francis can trace his roots back to Peter.  While historians and scholars debate whether the See of Peter became eminent via political shifts or the words of Christ “On this rock I will build my Church” there remains enough evidence to support that the idea of a pope is central to Christianity prior to the Sixteenth Century.

So What is the Role of the Pope in the Universal Church?

If your a Christian, the papacy means alot to you regardless of denomination.  It is a tradition and a guiding hand in many spiritual matters.  Some issues may divide Christians, but the pope is a voice that is heard around the world as a symbol of Christian unity.  While some may wish to forget the first 1600 years of Christianity, one cannot dismiss the driving power of the Papacy for better or worst.  It is a Christian treasure for all to embrace–just to what degree depends on who you are.
If you are a non Christian, then the Papacy and its relevance depends upon who sits on the throne of Peter.  For the most part, it is the responsibility of the Popes to defend all peoples.  In many cases they are the only voice of the afflicted.  Unfortunately this has not always been the case, but when a man of great integrity does become pope, it is a blessing for the whole world.

May God bless, Pope Francis–may he be a central voice for all Christians as he dispenses the Word of God and protects the poor and weak from the rich and powerful.
If you are interested in Christian Counseling Certifications, then please review the program
For those wishing to take Christian Counseling courses, you will find a wide variety of Christian Counseling courses that can lead to your certification in Christian Counseling.
Once you take the Christian Counseling Courses, you are eligible for certification.  After three years you can renew.
Please review the blog and if you have any questions, please let us know

Mark Moran, MA

How to become a christian counselor: Christian Behavior in the Modern Day Church: What Would Christ Do?

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling: The State of the Church on Earth

“And the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it”-strong words and the ultimate promise of Christ to Peter regarding his Church.  Yet,  while victory will be denied to Satan, one must accept that the Church will be tested.   This testing has pushed many Christians away from the Church because they do not understand the nature and relationship of the Bride of Christ.  Christian Counseling needs to make clear what the Church is and a Christians responsibility to the Church.

First, what is the Church?  So many times, we mistake the entirety of the Church to that of the hierarchy.  This is an error.  The Church is the entirety of all believers, those in Heaven and those still on Earth.  Within the Church on Earth or the Church Militant exists the hierarchy and the laity who all equally represent the Church on Earth as equal brothers and sisters in their baptism.  Only the form and duty of the branches differentiate them in their paths.  Ultimately all share in the royal priesthood of Christ and are called to know, love and serve God.  Those who wish to learn how to become a Christian Counselor are also part of the church and play an important role in its function and reform.
While the Church of Heaven can never sin, the Church on Earth, while still a perfect spiritual bride of Christ, is marred by the sins of its members.  With this comes a dualistic nature of the Church-a Church made of sinners but for sinners.  Stemming from apostolic succession, the hierarchy element of the Church spiritually feeds its children via Baptism and the Lord’s meal, while the laity of the Church accept these spiritual gifts and also utilize their special charisms in helping advance the Church.  Yet, within both hierarchy and laity exists a broken human element.  A broken element that throughout the ages has caused corruption within the physical structure of the Church.  Satan, has utilized the corrupt to gain control and cause pain and suffering through the arm of the physical structure of the Church.  Some can see pass this, while others correlate corruption with he spiritual nature of the Church.  These people lose their faith and revolt instead of keeping strong the faith and reforming it.
Perhaps with a better understanding of the Church and its structure, these people would not have reacted agains the corruption of the hierarchy in form of revolt but reformation instead.  Christ never came to destroy the Old Law, despite the corruption that existed, but he came to fulfill and reform it.  This is the calling of today’s Christians.  We are not to revolt and hate the Church for its corruption, but vigorously defend the spiritual nature of the Church.  If we truly understand the nature of the Church, then we can never leave her, but always remain apart of her because we know we are part of her as well.  Is that not the Mystical Body of Christ?
With these views in mind, we can only imagine Christ’s disgust with the abuse within the Church.  His disgust is not with merely the present state but also the past.  While there is 2,000 years worth of goodness, there is also 2000 years worth of corruption.
Christ’s disgust would first fall upon laws that no longer serve man but hinder.  Traditionalists who hold to outdated laws and judge man by that are no different than the pharisees of Christ’s day.
Christ’s disgust would fall upon the division of of his Churches.  He would find no amusement with the divison of East and West and the multiple divisions within Protestantism.

Christ’s disgust would fall upon the present hierarchy who boldly call themselves “Princes” of the Church and care more about the politics of the physical Church instead of its spiritual purity.
Christ’s disgust would fall upon the pedophiles of all religious denominations who prey upon children and supposed shepherds who hide these monsters from justice.
Christ’s disgust would fall upon the various heretical doctrines that attempt to water down his teachings.
Christ’s disgust would fall upon the rich and powerful who oppress the poor.
Christ’s disgust would fall upon those who are Christian in name only and do not fulfill the teachings of the Gospel
Where would we find Christ?  We would find Christ criticizing those who defile his teachings.  Whether minister, priest, religious or bishop, Christ would correct false doctrines and question these supposed shepherds.  While Christ would never condone open revolt against just leaders, he would demand that we stand up to those leaders who pervert his doctrines for financial or political gain.
We would find Christ helping the poor.  We would find him conversing with the sinners.  While Christ would never expect us to condone these sins, he expects us to serve our neighbors with Christian charity.

We would find Christ standing up for those without rights.  Christ expects us as Christians to defend the rights of the unborn.
We would find Christ holding and consoling the victims of sexual abuse and justly condemning those who supposedly represent him.
We may very well find Christ, “turning tables over” in many churches who supposedly profess his name.
Christ founded the Church and he does not expect us to revolt against it but he expects us to reform it.  Minister, priests, bishops, christian counselors and even laity need to start this reform.  If you would like to learn how to become a Christian Counselor and help in this reform, then consider becoming certified.
The biggest question to be answered is would those who control the Church today yield to their master or crucify him once again?

If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling Certification, then please review our program. Those who want to learn how to become a Christian Counselor can learn more by reviewing the program.
Those who wish to learn how to become a Christian Counselor will discover that the process is a simple one.  Simply take the required courses.  Once these courses are completed, those who wish to learn how to become a Christian Counselor can become certified.

Christian Mentorship: Ireland Forever Christian

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Mentorship: St. Patrick’s Legacy

A slave who became bishop and patriarch of Ireland forever changed the destiny of Ireland.  Once a pagan people controlled by the druids, St. Patrick would forever change the spiritual values of a people who would never waver from Christianity once it was imprinted.  Those interested in Christian Mentorship can find a great example in St. Patrick
This is the legacy of St. Patrick.  As he drove the snakes from Ireland, he also drove out any satanic or pagan element remaining within the people.  The people of Ireland would forever hold strong to their Christian faith, not just as a spiritual gift but a national identity.
While today struggles continue in Europe as people neglect their faith, Ireland still fights the spiritual war against materialism.  Marred by the sex abuse scandal, the people still fight for their faith and values, demanding reform instead of revolt.  Ireland cannot separate itself from its Christian identity.  This is the legacy of St. Patrick.
If you are interested in learning more about Christian Counseling, or Christian Mentorship then please feel free to review our program.