Church History

In this episode, we mark the start of 2026 with reflections on the past year and an optimistic outlook for the church's future. Join us as we discuss the resurgence of young men returning to traditional churches, the end of conflicts that have plagued nations, and the inspiring stories of faith amidst adversity. We also share a powerful story about an unknown usher whose small act of kindness changed the course of history, leading to the rise of one of Christianity's greatest evangelists, Billy Graham. Don't miss this uplifting exploration of hope, perseverance, and community in the face of challenges! Chapters: (00:33) Young men are returning to church across the Western world in 2019 (03:45) In 2025, an average of 30 Christians were killed in Nigeria for their faith (08:34) Church history is filled with men and women who serve Jesus Christ Episode Sponsor: The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR. The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1 Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org My Bible Reading Plan: https://bible.com/reading-plans/2053/together/78277240/invitation?token=YfuaPBjn98pOXxRD_Fhhow&source=share If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well: The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

In this heartfelt episode of the Church History Podcast, host Lorelee Siemens shares the poignant story behind the beloved Christmas carol "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." Through the lens of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's life, we explore themes of grief, hope, and the enduring message of peace amid turmoil. As we reflect on the Civil War's historical context and the personal tragedy that inspired Longfellow's words, we are reminded that even in our darkest times, the Christmas spirit can bring light and solace. Join us for this moving journey as we celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. Chapters: (00:00) Even in pain and sorrow, the Christmas story brings hope and peace (06:06) The Civil War (09:51) Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote this poem on Christmas Day 1885 (12:54) The Slavic choir has graciously allowed me to play their choir piece Music used by permission by Slavic Chorale Conducted by Pavel Kravchuk From Slavic Chorale's Christmas DVD. http://www.slavicchorale.org http://www.facebook.com/slavicchorale Episode Sponsor: The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1 Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well: The first Noel: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2825641/the-first-noel The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

In this powerful episode of the Church History Podcast, host Lorelee takes us back to the Christmas miracle of 1989 in Romania. We learn about the oppressive regime of Nicolae and Elena Ceaușescu and the courage of Pastor Laszlo Tokes, who led a movement of faith amidst tyranny. Through sound effects from actual footage, listeners are transported to a time when hope and faith ignited a revolution. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of religious freedom and the power of prayer in the face of adversity. Join us as we celebrate the true spirit of Christmas and the miraculous events that unfolded in Romania. Chapters: (06:51) A Baptist pastor began preaching against communist rule in Romania in 1987 (14:36) Nikolai and Elena are being tried for treason on Christmas Eve (19:44) Imagine being in a Romanian prison cell listening to communist propaganda on Christmas Day (26:43) Today, we ask you to make a choice on who you will serve Episode Sponsor: The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1 Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well: The first Noel: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2825641/the-first-noel The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

In this episode of the Church History Podcast, we explore the rich history of Christmas and its evolution through time. From ancient pagan celebrations to the early Christian church's initial reluctance to celebrate the birth of Jesus, we delve into how various traditions emerged and transformed. Discover the origins of Christmas trees, the significance of December 25th, and the impact of figures like Constantine and Martin Luther on our modern-day celebrations. Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Christmas and reflect on its meaning in today's world. Episode Sponsor: The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1 Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well: The first Noel: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-2825641/the-first-noel The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns

In this episode, we delve into the complex life of Leo Tolstoy, a man who navigated the intersection of faith and philosophy. From his noble beginnings to his experiences in the Crimean War, Tolstoy's journey encompasses the struggles of morality, the impact of war, and his eventual excommunication from the Russian Orthodox Church. Join Lorelee Siemens as she unpacks how Tolstoy sought to merge Christian teachings with socialist ideals, challenging the status quo and igniting debates that resonate even today. Explore how his legacy continues to influence discussions about faith, power, and the fundamental nature of humanity. Chapters: (00:42) Today, there are many in the church trying to combine Christianity with communism (04:03) Leo Tolstoy blurred the lines between Christian morality and socialist ideals (08:01) Count Leo Tolstoy's Crimean War experiences changed him forever (14:06) Tolstoy's philosophy is radical and leaves out the deity of Christ Episode Sponsor: The church is corrupted https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKFSXQTR The church is born https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BGLZ7C1 Alexander Henry Coffee https://alexanderhenrycoffee.ca Use CODE: churchhistory for 20% off Links: https://linktr.ee/loreleesiemens An Africa mission I recommend: https://globaltrain.org If you enjoyed this episode, listen to these as well: The Church's role in World War 1: https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35078519/faith-and-fury-the-churchs-role-in-world-war-i Defiance in Darkness: The Underground Church of Russia https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35067672/defiance-in-darkness-the-underground-church-of-russia How Faith Survived When Empires Fell https://loreleesiemens.com/media/771671-3210084-35063416/how-faith-survived-when-empires-fell The History of Hymns with Lorelee Siemens: https://loreleesiemens.com/podcasts/hymns