Orthodox Christian Parenting

Faithtree Resources

Orthodox Christian Parenting, hosted by Faithtree Resources Executive Director (and mom of four!) Michelle Moujaes, is a weekly podcast for parents and grandparents navigating the holy struggle of raising kids in the Orthodox Faith. Each episode offers honesty, encouragement, and practical wisdom from the Church—creating space to exhale, freedom from the pressure to be perfect, and openness to grow as you raise children who are deepening their knowledge and love of Christ.

  1. 4D AGO

    The Primary Goal of Orthodox Parenting with Paul and Cindy Karos

    As Orthodox Christian parents, we have one primary job and one goal: to help our children pursue a life of holiness. In this episode, Paul and Cindy Karos return to the podcast to discuss how we can help our children become Christlike—from actively participating in the life of the Church to making thoughtful choices in areas like extracurricular activities.They also explain the analogy of the path and the summit and share what it can teach us about living our daily lives in pursuit of holiness and union with God. Download The Encounter app at https://www.faithtree.org/the-encounter Find the “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know” ebook at https://www.faithtree.org/parenting Episode Recap:Today we’re talking with Paul and Cindy Karos about the goal of Orthodox Christian parenting.Why is helping our children pursue holiness the most important thing?The journey of faith is a journey toward the summit, which is union with God. The path of becoming Christlike is one we’re called to follow our entire life.How do we teach our children to follow the path? Can you share some practical examples of following the path in the context of extracurricular activities?How do we help kids pursue their talents while also staying close to the life of the church?Look at where you’re spending time and money to understand what you value. How can you introduce Orthodoxy to kids for the first time? There’s no better path or summit than this one! Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTubeDownload this episode’s free Discussion GuideExplore the full library of Faithtree ResourcesDownload The Encounter app“10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know”

    39 min
  2. MAR 3

    Raising Emotionally Resilient Kids with Fr. Nicholas and Dr. Roxanne Louh

    We can’t (and shouldn’t) shield our kids from all adversity, but we can help them become strong, resilient people who know how to walk through challenges. In this episode, we talk with Father Nick and Dr. Roxanne Louh about what it means to raise resilient kids. They share their unique perspectives on parenting together as a priest and psychologist and answer listener questions about teaching sacrificial love, letting our kids experience obstacles and more. Follow the podcast for more content like this as we kick off Season 2!  Download The Encounter app at https://www.faithtree.org/the-encounter Find the “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know” ebook at https://www.faithtree.org/parenting Episode Recap: Today we’re talking with Father Nick and Dr. Roxanne Louh about raising resilient children.What inspired you to write “Renewing You”?How do we make space for our kids’ feelings while also setting boundaries?  What does it look like to build values-based boundaries?  How can we build resilience in our own lives?  Is resilience a learnable skill?  Why is discernment so important for kids, and how can we help them develop it? How can we help kids balance sacrificial love and strength? How might well-meaning parents be unintentionally hurting their kids’ resilience?Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify or YouTubeDownload this episode’s free Discussion GuideExplore the full library of Faithtree ResourcesDownload The Encounter app“10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know” “Renewing You” by Fr. Nicholas and Dr. Roxanne Louh

    38 min
  3. 12/02/2025

    Real Answers to Your Biggest Parenting Questions With Dr. Philip Mamalakis

    There are few things we love more on this podcast than getting to connect with listeners and answer real questions that matter. In this episode, Dr. Philip Mamalakis returns to the podcast to tackle some of your top parenting questions about correcting bad behaviors, navigating relationships with friends and romantic partners, teaching discernment and much more. Whether you’re a young parent, a parent of adult children, or even a grandparent, this episode is full of practical insights and encouragement!  Find the “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know eBook” at https://www.faithtree.org/parenting Download The Encounter app at https://www.faithtree.org/the-encounter Episode Recap: Today we’re answering your top parenting questions with Dr. Philip Mamalakis.What do I do if my kids are dismissive toward me? Is it ever too late to change your parenting?How do I respond if my adult child dates someone of a different faith? What advice can you give to grandparents whose children have left the Church? How do we teach our kids discernment? How should we respond to and love our kids’ friends?What do I do when another adult corrects my child? How do I best support my special needs child? What do I do if my child tells me they’re questioning their sexuality? How do we teach our children to be compassionate, prayerful people? Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube Download this episode’s free discussion guide Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources Take our quick listener survey and help shape Season 2 Support Faithtree this Giving Tuesday

    36 min
  4. 11/25/2025

    Helping Children Stay Rooted in Christ With Bishop Anthony

    In a culture that’s pulling us in a thousand other directions, how do we raise our kids to love and stay close to the Church? In this episode, we’re joined by His Grace Bishop Anthony Michaels for a conversation that’s full of wisdom and encouragement for Orthodox parents everywhere. He shares about the importance of fostering real connections and relationships, explains how his parents raised him to love the Church from a young age, and reminds us that we’re probably doing better than we think. You don’t want to miss this one!  Find the “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know eBook” at https://www.faithtree.org/parenting Download The Encounter app at https://www.faithtree.org/the-encounter Episode Recap: Today we’re talking about raising kids who love the church with Bishop Anthony Michaels.How did your parents help cement your love for the Church? How can parents foster a faith community outside the walls of the Church? Why do you say most parents are doing better than they think?Why is isolation one of the biggest dangers for young people? What can parents do to help kids with feelings of loneliness? How can we balance planning with surrendering control?How can parents help kids build a faith that’s all their own?Thank you, parents!Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube Download this episode’s free discussion guide Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources and shop our Black Friday sale Take our quick listener survey and help shape Season 2

    30 min
  5. 11/18/2025

    Understanding Anxiety in Your Kids and How to Support Them With George Papageorge

    Anxiety is more common than ever today, but as Christians, we don’t have to navigate it alone. In this episode, our friend George Papageorge returns to the podcast to talk about all things anxiety — from the worries we feel as parents to the anxieties our children might face to the ways we can adjust our schedules, tech usage and perspectives in response. He also reminds us that anxiety is normal (and sometimes even healthy), but we don’t have to let it control us or our children. Episode Recap: Today we’re talking about anxiety with George Papageorge. What is anxiety, and how should parents approach it? How can anxiety shape a young person’s beliefs? Is anxiety always a bad thing? Why is anxiety more prevalent today? How can we make sure our anxieties don’t spread to our children?Where’s the line between normal worries and anxiety that needs to be addressed? How can we help mitigate anxiety without trying to control everything?How does drawing closer to Christ help ease anxiety?Why do you say that “kids are like cupcakes”?How can we connect with our kids’ vulnerability in a positive way? Why is margin so important when we’re feeling anxious? What recommendations do you have around tech usage? What encouragement can you give to parents feeling anxious? Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube Download this episode’s free discussion guide Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources Download the Relationship Project Fill out our listener survey and enter to win a $50 gift card

    1 hr
  6. 11/11/2025

    Gratitude & Overcoming Materialism With Paul and Cindy Karos

    How can we teach our children gratitude in a world that’s constantly telling them (and us) that we should always want more? In this episode, Paul and Cindy Karos return to the podcast to share practical tips and encouraging words for parents who are looking for healthy alternatives to materialism. They talk about their own experience with raising their children to value gratitude, give generously and live simply. They also answer a few listener questions and discuss how you can take a balanced approach to the coming Christmas season.| Find the “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know eBook” at https://www.faithtree.org/parenting Download The Encounter app at https://www.faithtree.org/the-encounter Episode Recap: Today we’re talking about gratitude and materialism with Paul and Cindy Karos.Why is materialism such an issue in our culture? How do you teach your children to find “the middle way”?What are some signs that we’ve maybe lost balance?How have you taught your kids to value giving?The simpler you live, the more freedom you have.How did you approach fasting as a family? Can you share some strategies you used to teach thankfulness? Do you have any tips for approaching the Christmas season intentionally? What would you say to a parent whose child is obsessed with trendy things?Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube Download this episode’s free discussion guide Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources Get The Encounter app “Parenting Toward the Kingdom” by Dr. Philip Mamalakis (with the new companion guide)  10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know

    38 min
  7. 11/04/2025

    How Love at Home Shapes Faith That Lasts with Joe Ayoub

    Ever wonder if your kids are really noticing your faith or if anything you’re doing is sinking in? In this episode, Michelle sits down with musician Joe Ayoub to talk about the quiet, powerful ways parents shape their children’s spiritual lives without even realizing it. Joe reflects on how the lessons his parents modeled decades ago still shape his life today, and why love will always reach further than guilt or fear. If you’ve ever questioned whether your example matters, this episode will remind you that your kids are watching, and God is working—even when you can’t see it yet. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode. Our Foundations of Faith cards offer an engaging and easy way to teach the essentials of Orthodoxy, providing a beautifully designed introduction to help new members feel at home. Learn More at https://www.faithtree.org/cards The Lionheart Sessions offer a transformative four-week curriculum designed to integrate men into the life of the Church. Learn More at https://www.faithtree.org Episode Recap: In this episode, we’re talking with Joe AyoubHow did Joe’s parents shape his faith?What role did freedom play in helping him stay connected to the Church?Why is unconditional love more powerful than guilt or fear in parenting?What hope can parents hold onto when their children take a different path?Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube  Download this episode’s free discussion guide Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources Download The Encounter app Get your copy of 10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know

    34 min
  8. 10/28/2025

    What Success Looks Like for Orthodox Parents with Dr. Philip Mamalakis

    We all want to feel like we’re doing a good job raising our kids. But what does success actually mean for Orthodox Christian parents? In this episode, Dr. Philip Mamalakis returns to the podcast to share his perspective on the long-term goals parents should focus on when raising children who know God and love the Church. He also offers some practical tips for prioritizing hard work over accolades, creating a safe space for our kids to make mistakes, and helping them find their vocation.  Find the “10 Things Every Orthodox Parent Should Know eBook” at https://www.faithtree.org/parenting Download The Encounter app at https://www.faithtree.org/the-encounter Episode Recap: Today we’re welcoming Dr. Philip Mamalakis back to the podcast How can we define success for ourselves and our children? What have you done to raise children who’ve stayed engaged in the life of the Church?How can we avoid prioritizing accolades and achievement? What does it look like to bring the Church into the home?How can parents set realistic expectations?Why should we teach our kids to make mistakes? How can we find balance between hard work and pursuit of excellence?How do you guide your children through finding their vocations? What do you do with a child who’s struggling to tell the truth? Can you share advice for co-parents who don’t share the same beliefs?Resources: Follow and rate the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube  Download this episode’s free discussion guide Explore the full library of Faithtree Resources  Get The Encounter App “Parenting Toward the Kingdom” by Dr. Philip Mamalakis (with the new companion guide)

    45 min

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About

Orthodox Christian Parenting, hosted by Faithtree Resources Executive Director (and mom of four!) Michelle Moujaes, is a weekly podcast for parents and grandparents navigating the holy struggle of raising kids in the Orthodox Faith. Each episode offers honesty, encouragement, and practical wisdom from the Church—creating space to exhale, freedom from the pressure to be perfect, and openness to grow as you raise children who are deepening their knowledge and love of Christ.