Spiritual Emptiness - Fr. Timothy Pavlatos

In this episode of The Ancient Church, host Polina Leiser speaks with Fr. Timothy Pavlatos, priest of St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church in Chandler, Arizona, about spiritual emptiness, inner struggle, and the search for meaning in the Orthodox Christian life. Many people say their lives appear successful on the outside, yet they experience a deep sense of emptiness within. Fr. Timothy explores what that feeling may be revealing, whether periods of spiritual emptiness are normal, and how God can use even our struggles to draw us closer to Him. Drawing from his experience as both an Orthodox priest and a licensed counselor, Fr. Timothy discusses how we can distinguish godly sorrow from destructive despair, what to do with regret and how to draw closer to God when we feel spiritually exhausted. The episode includes with responses to audience questions about the Holy Trinity and practical guidance for those interested in learning more about Orthodox Christianity. Learn more about St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church: https://stkatherineaz.org/ 🎵 Opening music: “Let My Prayer Arise” performed by the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, from the album The Powers of Heaven (2005). With permission of harmonia mundi France © 2026. 👉 Submit your questions at AncientChurchShow.com 👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support the program. Originally aired on theDove TV & Radio on May 31, 2026.