The Committee on Home Missions and Church Extension and the Committee on Christian Education of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church sponsor a series of "Readiness for Ministry in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church" seminars each year.
This training and evaluation seminar is an enrichment opportunity for seminary students. A number of presentations are made on Reformed ministry and on the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. The seminar also proves to be helpful to seminary graduates from outside the OPC who are pursuing ministry in the OPC.
Exciting new developments and growth in OPC home missions continue. This provides many opportunities for ministry in the OPC. The OPC is also facing a growing number of pastors retiring. The Committee is investing a major portion of its home mission and church expansion efforts toward people who want to hear of ministry opportunities in our denomination, including opportunities for summer and yearlong internships.
Each seminar participant gives a three-minute introduction of himself before the group. Also, he preaches a ten-minute exhortation before half the group. The exhortation is to be an exposition of a text of Scripture with appropriate application. Participation in several group exercises entitled, "Problem Solving in Reformed Ministry," is also part of the seminar.
The program includes a personal feedback interview with one of the observers. The observations of the elders concerning your gifts and your church leadership potential will be discussed with you. All the observers are ministers or ruling elders of the OPC.
2008 Readiness for Ministry in the OPC Seminars are scheduled for:
February 8–9 - Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
February 22–23 - Westminster Seminary California, Escondido, California
March 7–8 - Mid-America Reformed Seminary, Dyer, Indiana
If you wish to come and explore the challenge of reformed ministry and the opportunities for service and internship in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church, contact Dick Gerber at firstname.lastname@example.org. You do not have to be a member of the OPC to be a participant in this day and a half training program. You do need a desire to better evaluate your gifts and strengths in general and your giftedness and readiness for church leadership in particular.
© 2024 The Orthodox Presbyterian Church


From the beginning, NOLA Church has been built on a foundation of prayer, and each year we’ve seen Jesus do amazing things as our church family has leaned into prayer as a culture and lifestyle rather than just something we do.Pastor Monte has declared that 2019 is a Year of Prayer, so our church is now a 24/7/365 Prayer Room. Our goal is to have every hour of 2019 covered with prayer, and for there to be continual prayer at our building every day throughout the year. You can drop in any time of the day or night to spend some time in prayer, devotion and worship.
This is where you learn more about NOLA Church and become a member of our family, find a group where you can do life with other people on the same journey as you, and join a team where you can make a difference in your world.
Our NEXT Steps class is available on the third Sunday of every month during the 11a Experience. If you’d like to find your place in the NOLA Family you can download the Church Center app or click on Take Your NEXT Step.
Baptism is an important step of obedience that shows others we have personally trusted Jesus for our salvation. Jesus was baptized when He was on the earth, and we do this to follow His example. When Christians are baptized, they are submerged under water to identify with the death and burial of Jesus and raised out of the water to identify with His resurrection. Join us on last Sunday of each month where we will celebrate water baptism.
The mission of our Serve Team is to shine Jesus to our city. We feel this can be best done through consistent relationships and prayer. Serving not only impacts the people we serve, but it greatly impacts our own lives as well. It’s our honor to serve the forgotten, the unwanted, the elderly, the trafficked, the battered, the addicted, the ones who gave their all for our freedom, and those who are different from us. These simple acts of kindness radically impact lives and are beyond rewarding. We’re inviting you to join in the Mission to reach more!
We give generously because Jesus has been so generous to every one of us. Because we have received freely, we give freely. Giving generously is also the Nature of GOD, and because we are children of GOD, we have receive His Nature into our own lives… we’re simply imitating Jesus.
Want to join us in our Mission of reaching people with the Life-giving message of Jesus? Your generosity enables us to help more and more people experience a life-changing relationship with Him. We are truly grateful for your donation and hope the convenience and simplicity of online giving will be helpful to you.
Our Groups have one, simple purpose: to bring people together. We believe GOD created us to live in relationship with others and only then can we live the full life He intends for us. Sharing life through community is part of our design, but meaningful relationships aren’t always easy to find. That’s why Groups exist—to make these life-changing relationships relevant and accessible to you.
Come Worship With Us
Plan Your Visit
We believe that church should be fun… this is why every Sunday at NOLA is a party!
Make sure to stop by the Café for a free coffee and a snack. Your kids will have a blast in NOLA Kids, and you’ll love the music in the main Worship Experience. You’ll meet some really great people who can’t wait to serve your family, and you’ll make some new friends.
First time at NOLA Church?
Don’t want to go alone? Or maybe you’ve been a few times but you’d like to ask a few questions, tour the property, or connect with some staff and leaders? Plan your visit and we will make special arrangements for you and your family!
- A reserved parking spot will be prepared for you in front
- We will meet you at the front door & introduce you around
- Help you get your kids checked in to NOLA Kidz
- Save seats for you in the worship experience


Advent II – December 7, 2014
St. Augustine’s Church – Wilmette, Illinois
There’s a voice in the wilderness, crying:
‘I can’t breathe.’
John the Baptist comes into the wilderness proclaiming a baptism of repentance. It’s one of those words, repentance…a word we can hear and then stop listening to anything else that comes after it. It’s a street corner preacher kind of a word. It’s a loaded, coded word. It’s a word that calls out for a placard and a bullhorn.
I don’t mean that word, repentance, in the way you may anticipate hearing it. So I hope you won’t stop listening. I mean it, instead, in the way that it means to turn: to turn away from my own, from our own, perceived protection and safety and comfort…to turn toward the one who is my neighbor, but who looks entirely different than I do.
And honestly, I would take that street corner today, right there next to the prophet Isaiah speaking to his people in exile in Babylon, right next to the prophet John the Baptist with his strange and itchy camel’s hair shirt and his leather belt and his bugs and his honey and all of it. I would take that street corner today, uncomfortable as it makes me. And I would take the placard, and the bullhorn. I would take them all.
Because there’s a voice in the wilderness, crying.
Because John the Baptist comes into that wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance, a baptism of turning from, a baptism of turning toward. And as he baptizes those people in the Jordan, he tells them of the One who is coming, the One whose shoe he is not worthy to untie, the One who will baptize them, the One who will baptize us, with the Holy Spirit.
Remember. Remember what happens when the Holy Spirit comes into the world. Creation happens: the Spirit broods over the waters, and Creation is born. And it is good. The Church happens: the Holy Spirit rushes into that room where the disciples are all locked up in their fear, a mighty wind that those followers of Jesus breathe in, and the Church is born. And it is very good.
What if this is a moment of our creation, once again? Hear and claim the first line of today’s gospel: “The beginning of the Good News of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” What if we are being called to breathe in the Spirit as those disciples did, to receive it together as co-creators with God, to begin again, to turn and make room in relationship with those who are our neighbors?
What if our Advent is to watch for God’s messenger sent to us, to notice him, to recognize her, in a person most unlike ourselves, even in a person who challenges us, even in a person who makes us uncomfortable?
What if we hear the voice of one crying in the wilderness, and instead of turning away, all locked up in our fear, in our hunger for safety, in our desire for protection…what if, instead, we turn toward that voice with the full breadth and depth of who we are? What if we join our voices with the one who cries out, calling out together, proclaiming that if one of us can’t breathe then none of us really can? What if we prepare the way of the Lord by walking on ahead, together with those who must, as those who must?
What if that is the beginning of our Good News?
And what if our baptism of repentance, our baptism in the Spirit, is to turn? To turn away from our own protection, from our own isolation, living and moving only among people who talk like we do and think like we do and who watch the same news channel and listen to the same music and share the same education and read the same books and eat at the same restaurants…to turn away from our own supposed safety, our own assumed comfort? What if our baptism calls us to turn toward neighbors who look entirely different than we do, whose stories we do not yet know, who do not talk like we do and think like we do and who watch different news channels and dance to different music and who have different education and who read different books and who eat different sorts of food than we do?
What if our baptism in the Spirit calls us to take a deep breath and turn toward the stranger, trusting that we will not overcome our fears, we will not overcome all that separates and would divide us, by knowing about people, but by knowing and being known by them?
What if our baptism of repentance, our baptism in the Spirit, is to turn toward neighbors we do not yet know, and there, in them, see God’s own face?
Only then. Only then will we have begun to prepare the way.
It’s Advent, dear friends. It’s Advent.
And there’s a voice in the wilderness, crying.


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Curved top headstone and footstone.|
Inscription on headstone.
Affectionate Remembrance of
who died February 9
Aged 61 years
Also of JANE
who died December 29
Aged 73 years
[_2 lines of small script heavily covered with lichen and unreadable__]
Inscription on footstone.
Burial Register: A349, A406.
|The Parish Church of St. James the Great, South Leigh, Oxfordshire.||Copyright © St. James the Great South Leigh Parochial Church Council, 2006|
|Updated 22nd November 2005||Feedback|


Bart Gavigan, a writer for the film End of the Spear, once was Quoted in the book by Roy Petersons Set Free. He said “If I am going to write a movie about someone, I am going to find out what their deepest wound is, as that is where the flower grows.”
Let me just repeat the gist of what he said… “deepest wound is where the flower grows.”
Glory to God for this allegory “deepest wound is where the flower grows.” do you know what this means? What this is saying? At least how I am interpreting this…it is because of our pain,we can learn, grow and blossom. Our wounds, like our scars are reminders of our past. What we do in those circumstances can lead to flowers growing.
My biggest wound was my infertility.
Spent 10 years believing science until I was reawakened by faith. I was accepting that scientific result not a final nail on my fertility coffin, but that my God, the God whom loves me even when i don’t deserve to be loved, that my God can show science who is king!
Take your wound, with faith, knowing that the Lord Jehovah god got your back.
Tryst in god.
Trust in his timing.
Relieve his blessing and….
Watch the flowers grow from those wounds.
Father God I thank you for all that you do. I lift your name high. I thank you for these inspiring words that you provided me while I read. Thank you for allowing me to experience these wounds, so that my faith In you could grow. Thank you for blessing me and giving me flowers which grew within my wounds. My uterus was my wound, my children are my flowers. Only you, not science made this possible. Only you dear Lord. You allowed them to come into my life. I humbly thank you. Amen.


Council of Reformed Charities serves as a resource to the Reformed and Christian Reformed communities in direct Christian mercy. The collection consists of brochures, newsletters, minutes, correspondence, reports, articles of incorporation and bylaws. More information is available on their website <www.corc.org>.
Effort that resulted in the creation of the Council of Reformed Charities in 1988 began during the 1950s as Meindert Bosch, the business manager at Bethesda Hospital in Denver, Colorado, began contacting staff at other similar institutions of “Christian mercy.” Over time these contacts led to regularly, annual meetings of representatives from such institutions. At the 2 Mat 1998 meeting of representatives of fifteen such individuals at Bethany Christian Services in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the council was incorporated, and officers were elected, to promote the delivery of human services from a Reformed perspective, with Bosch as its first executive director. The organization provides leadership and training in such areas as fundraising, compliance, outreach, administration, and volunteerism.


Join us at Noce on Sunday, February 19th at 6:30pm for our annual membership meeting. This will be a night of prayer and celebration as we present the Annual Ministry Report and share some very exciting news about the future! The meeting is open to everyone who attends The Gateway Church.
During this meeting those who have completed the New Members Class and signed the membership covenant will be welcomed as members of The Gateway Church. We will also be welcoming three new Elders (Brad Bartlett, Nate Evans and Ryan Morrison) and voting to affirm three new members of the Board of Stewardship (Ben Anderson, Justin Davey and Grant Stokka).
The Elders serve as the spiritual overseers of our church, teach and preach the Word, protect the church from false teachers, exhort and admonish the saints in sound doctrine, pray for the sick and judge doctrinal issues.
The Board of Stewardship (BOS) serve as the official board of directors of the church, oversee all financial matters, and work in cooperation with the Lead Pastor and the Elders for the overall governance of the church.
According to our bylaws (Article Thirteen, Section 2) BOS members shall be recommended by the Board Selection Committee and affirmed by a majority of the Covenant Membership.
This year Ben Anderson, Justin Davey and Grant Stokka have been recommended because of their faithfulness and love for The Gateway Church.
1. Covenant Members who have a concern about the qualifications regarding any of the recommended candidates shall have the opportunity to express in writing their concern to the Selection Team prior to the Annual Covenant Membership Meeting.
2. Board Candidates who have been duly presented, and have no valid objection to their qualifications, shall be affirmed by a majority of the Covenant Members present at a duly called Covenant Membership Meeting.


Parish Clergy: Fr Loughlin Brennan Fr. Tom Ryan
Tel. 386227 Mobile 087 9814051 Tel. 352223 Mobile 087 6291557
Chrissie O’Gorman , Ann and Jim Jamel and Gary Cobel 7pm this Saturday
Maurice and Peggy Hassett 9am this Sunday
Bridie and Jerry Taaffe , John O’Brien,Mattie and Maureen Hoyne and Jim Berkery 11.30am this Sunday
Eamon Rainsford Months Mind and Matt Cuddy 7pm next Saturday
James and Mary Clarke ____________________________________________________9am next Sunday
John Barron and deceased members of the Barron Family and Tommy and Mary Bartley______ 10am next Sunday
May They Rest in Peace
Eucharistic Ministers Next Weekend:
Boher: Elizabeth O Connor.
Murroe: Bridget Hayes 7pm, Willie Carey 9am, Margaret Holmes 11.30am
Masses for coming week:
Boher – Tuesday and Thursday at 9.30am.
Murroe – Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10am.
Maranatha prayer Ministry invites you to our February Healing Retreat at St. Pauls Church, Dooradoyle, Limerick at 2.30pm through the Ministry of Bishop Fintan Monahan, Killaloe Diocese and Sr. Mary Bridget, Charismatic Renewal, Limerick next Sunday, 16th February 2020. Mass at 5pm. All welcome.
The Annual Pink Night will take place on Saturday 15th February 2020 at Kennedys Lounge, Rearcross – Music with the very entertaining “DJ Wilm” – All funds raised for Mid West Cancer Unit in University Hospital Limerick. A raffle will take place with lots of prizes including a Ladies County Jersey. A great night’s entertainment for a good cause. Support greatly appreciated. Everybody welcome
Social Dance in Millennium Centre Caherconlish on Friday 14th February. Music by Marveltones. Tea served. Admission €10.
Lotto Results for 2/2/20 -2,10,20,29- No Winner. €20 Dips Vinnie Callanan, Aine Cooke, James Buckley & Eoghan Tuohey. Next week’s Jackpot €8,900 Draw in Pa McGraths. Double Down lotto draw -12,16,17,22- €50 Dips Jimmy O’Brien, Sinead Murray & Megan Buckley.
Murroe AFC Team News: Last weekend the A team had a fantastic 6-1 win away to Aisling Annacotty in the league, while the C team had a 5-0 loss to Nenagh Town, on Sunday.
This weekend on Sunday 8th February, the B team are at home against Janesboro at 2pm in Tubber, while the C team are away to Athlunkard Villa also in the league at 2pm.
The A team, and Youth team have no fixtures.
Reflection: Frequently we hear ‘experts’ say that too much salt is bad for us; this is probably true; too much of anything is not good for us. But food without any salt is bland, tasteless and just not very nice! Since ancient times salt has been used to purify, preserve, season and flavour food. At the time of Jesus, salt was very valuable and expensive. Roman soldiers were often paid with blocks of salt which they then traded. Salt was basically used as money! Hence the phrase, to be worth your weight in salt!
What is Jesus saying when he calls and asks us to be salt to the earth? Salt makes a difference to food as we said. Without it, food cannot be preserved and at times cannot be eaten. Salt, used properly can brighten and enliven food. Can we say the same about ourselves as followers of Jesus. Do I make a difference to those around me through what I say, what do and how I live my daily life? By my living the gospel of Jesus, do I brighten and enliven the world around me? Am I worth my weight in salt?
Then Jesus uses another powerful symbol to challenge us. He says to each of us; ‘You are the Light of the world… no one lights a lamp and then hides it under a basket, they put it on a lampstand and it gives light to the world. In the same way, your (own) light must shine before others.’
I often find this statement from Jesus strange. In the start of John’s gospel it says; The Word was the real light, that gives light to everyone.’ Later in the gospel Jesus clearly says; I am the Light of the World. So through Jesus, the Light of God comes into the world to dispel all darkness. This has echoes of the great phrase; The people in darkness have seen a great light. Now Jesus very clearly says, You are the Light of the world. This is very encouraging and also very challenging. We now share the responsibility with Jesus of being people of light who shine brightly in and for the world.
When Nelson Mandela became president of South Africa, he quoted a poem written by Marianne Williamson; from which this line is taken; We are all meant to shine; we were born to manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.
Today, take a moment of silence and say, Jesus is the light of the world and so am I! – (Br Michael Moore OMI)


Dorothy KennedyDorothy Kennedy passed away on Monday, May 6, 2013 at Lakewood Health Systems in Staples. Funeral services will be on Friday, May 10, 2013, at 11:00 AM at Staples United Methodist Church, with Pastor Mark Bateson officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to service at the church. Interment will be at Evergreen Hill Cemetery, in Staples.
Dorothy was born to Walter and Nettie (Kobbervig) Staples on October 5, 1927 in Morris, MN. She was united in marriage to Don Kennedy, on November 25, 1947 in Minneapolis, MN. Together they lived in Minneapolis until 1954 when they then moved to Staples. She worked as a homemaker, active member at United Methodist Church in Staples. She was part of the Alpha Chapter Eastern Star, a past Matron of the Orchid Chapter, and enjoyed all card games and spending time with her family.


Archdiocese of Philadelphia tamps down speculation of visit from Pope Francis
By DAVID O'REILLY
PHILADELPHIA-Archbishop Charles J. Chaput told a North Dakota audience Thursday Pope Francis had assured him he will visit Philadelphia for three days next year, and the Vatican seemed to confirm it, but the Archdiocese of Philadelphia insisted Friday Chaput's remarks were off the cuff and unofficial.
"There has been no official confirmation by the Vatican or the Holy See of Pope Francis' attendance at the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia," communications director Kenneth Gavin said in a statement Friday morning.
Email this to a friend!
Pope Francis, third from right, has lunch at the Vatican workers' cafeteria Friday when he popped in unannounced.
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THE BOOK OF MORMON, Second Edition: The Earliest Text
This second edition is the culmination of a scholarly project spanning more than 30 years that includes: 615 readings that have never before appeared in any standard printed edition, 251 readings that make a difference in meaning, 19 corrected spellings of names, 133 readings that make the text more consistent in phraseology or usage, and so much more.
Publishing status: Current
Item #: 1938347
END TIMES ANSWERS: 100 Real Questions from Real PeoplePaperbound$14.95 $19.99
THE HISTORY OF THE DEVILPaperbound$7.95 $12.99
THE VIRGIN MARY CONSPIRACY: The True Father of Christ and the Tomb of the VirginPaperbound$4.95 $18.00
THE DEVIL'S ATLAS: An Explorer's Guide to Heavens, Hells and AfterworldsHardbound$24.95 $29.95


The cardinal wrote that he “deeply” regretted Fr. Pfleger's public remarks that have “brought you to a moment of crisis that I pray will quickly pass.”
“This conflict is not between you and me,” he clarified, “it’s between you and the Church that ordained you a priest, between you and the faith that introduced you to Christ and gives you the right to preach and pastor in his name.”
Although “I have consistently supported your work for social justice and admired your passion for ministry,” Cardinal George wrote, “I am asking you to take a few weeks to pray over your priestly commitments in order to come to mutual agreement on how you understand personally the obligations that make you a member of the Chicago presbyterate and of the Catholic Church.”
“With this letter, your ministry as pastor of Saint Sabina Parish and your sacramental faculties as a priest of the Archdiocese are suspended.”
The cardinal then named the Rev. Thulani Magwaza, the associate pastor at St. Sabina, as administrator during the suspension and the Rev. Andrew Smith, a priest at St. Ailbe Parish, as his assistant.
Fr. Pfleger did not react publicly the suspension, but one leader of the parish expressed anger at the decision.
“He was ambushed,” said Kimberly Lymore, who is listed as “associate minister” on the church's website directory. Lymore told the Chicago Sun-Times on April 28 that Fr. Pfleger has “given his life to this community” and is “upset,” and “in shock, just as we all were.”
Cardinal George emphasized in his letter to the priest that if “you now formally leave the Catholic Church and her priesthood, it’s your choice and no one else’s.”
“You are not a victim of anyone or anything other than your own statements,” he said. “To avoid misrepresentation and manipulation on anyone’s part, this letter will be released to the parish, which is to publish it in its entirety, and to the media after it has been delivered to you.”
“You remain in my prayers, and I hope I remain in yours.”


Wednesday, March 21st, 2018 Testimony Meeting
At 8: 15pm EDT every Wednesday, we have a Testimony Meeting featuring readings from The Bible, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, and Prose Works, as well as testimonies of Christian Science healing and wonderful music. All are welcome!
The Reader Prays — to work with when praying for our services!
YouTube: Readings and Testimonies
Listen to the entire meeting here or on SoundCloud
Theme: God answers righteous prayer
Readings: Gary from NJ
Psalm 6: 9
9 The Lord hath heard my supplication; the Lord will receive my prayer.
Psalm 66: 16-20
16 Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.
17 I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue.
18 If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:
19 But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer.
20 Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.
Matthew 4: 17 (Jesus)(to 1st ,)
17 … Jesus began to preach, …
Matthew 5: 1, 2, 43-45 (to : )
1 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him:
2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
43 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.
44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: …
Matthew 6: 1-13
1 Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven.
2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:
4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
James 4: 3
3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
John 4: 21 (to saith), 23 (the hour), 24
21 Jesus saith …
23 … the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Matthew 6: 16-18
16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
17 But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
18 That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures
1: 1-4, 6-14 (next page)
THE prayer that reforms the sinner and heals the sick is an absolute faith that all things are possible to God,— a spiritual understanding of Him, an unselfed love.
Prayer, watching, and working, combined with self-immolation, are God’s gracious means for accomplishing whatever has been successfully done for the Christianization and health of mankind.
Thoughts unspoken are not unknown to the divine Mind. Desire is prayer; and no loss can occur from trusting God with our desires, that they may be moulded and exalted before they take form in words and in deeds.
What are the motives for prayer? Do we pray to make ourselves better or to benefit those who hear us, to enlighten the infinite or to be heard of men? Are we benefited by praying? Yes, the desire which goes forth hungering after righteousness is blessed of our Father, and it does not return unto us void.
God is not moved by the breath of praise to do more than He has already done, nor can the infinite do less than bestow all good, since He is unchanging wisdom and Love. We can do more for ourselves by humble fervent petitions, but the All-loving does not grant them simply on the ground of lip-service, for He already knows all.
No and Yes
39: 1-24, 28-7
It is a truism that we can think more lucidly and profoundly than we can write or speak. The silent intercession and unvoiced imploring is an honest and potent prayer to heal and save. The audible prayer may be offered to be heard of men, though ostensibly to catch God’s ear, — after the fashion of Baal’s prophets, — by speaking loud enough to be heard; but when the heart prays, and not the lips, no dishonesty or vanity influences the petition.
Prophet and apostle have glorified God in secret prayer, and He has rewarded them openly. Prayer can neither change God, nor bring His designs into mortal modes; but it can and does change our modes and our false sense of Life, Love, and Truth, uplifting us to Him. Such prayer humiliates, purifies, and quickens activity, in the direction that is unerring.
True prayer is not asking God for love; it is learning to love, and to include all mankind in one affection. Prayer is the utilization of the love wherewith He loves us. Prayer begets an awakened desire to be and do good. It makes new and scientific discoveries of God, of His goodness and power. It shows us more clearly than we saw before, what we already have and are; and most of all, it shows us what God is.
What but silent prayer can meet the demand, “Pray without ceasing”? The apostle James said: “Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, to consume it on your lusts.” Because of vanity and self-righteousness, mortals seek, and expect to receive, a material sense of approval; and they expect also what is impossible, — a material and mortal sense of spiritual and immortal Truth.
It is Truth and Love that cast out fear and heal the sick, and mankind are better because of this. If a change in the religious views of the patient comes with the change to health, our Father has done this; for the human mind and body are made better only by divine influence.
Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures
Christians rejoice in secret beauty and bounty, hidden from the world, but known to God. Self-forgetfulness, purity, and affection are constant prayers. Practice not profession, understanding not belief, gain the ear and right hand of omnipotence and they assuredly call down infinite blessings.
16: 1-8, 20-23
A great sacrifice of material things must precede this advanced spiritual understanding. The highest prayer is not one of faith merely; it is demonstration. Such prayer heals sickness, and must destroy sin and death. It distinguishes between Truth that is sinless and the falsity of sinful sense.
Our Master taught his disciples one brief prayer, which we name after him the Lord’s Prayer.
Only as we rise above all material sensuousness and sin, can we reach the heaven-born aspiration and spiritual consciousness, which is indicated in the Lord’s Prayer and which instantaneously heals the sick.


Today’s Scripture Readings
Vespers, 1st Reading: Composite 2 – Proverbs 10, 3, 8
The memory of the righteous is with praise and the blessing of the Lord is upon his head. Blessed is the man who has found wisdom and the mortal who has understanding. For it is better to purchase her than treasuries of gold and silver. She is more precious than precious stones and all that is precious is unworthy of her. For length of days and years of life are in her right hand; and in her left hand are riches and glory. Out of her mouth proceeds righteousness and she bears law and mercy upon her tongue. Hear me, O child, for I will speak noble things. Blessed is the man who keeps my ways, for my ways are the ways of life, and in them is prepared favor from the Lord. Therefore, I pray thee, and utter my voice to the sons of men: For I, wisdom, have dwelt with counsel and knowledge and I have called upon understanding. Counsel and safety are mine, understanding and strength are mine. I love those who love me and those seeking me shall find grace. Understand craftiness, O you who are simple, and imbibe knowledge, you who are untaught. Hear me again, for I will speak noble things: I will open my mouth and from my lips shall come what is right. For my throat shall meditate truth; false lips are an abomination before me. All the words of my mouth are righteous; there is nothing in them that is twisted or perverse. They are all straight to him who understands and right to those who find knowledge. I shall instruct you in truth, so that your hope will be in the Lord and you shall be filled with the Spirit.
Vespers, 2nd Reading: Proverbs 10:31-11:12
The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut out. The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked what is perverse. Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight. When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom. The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them. Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright, but the wicked will fall by his own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, but the unfaithful will be caught by their lust. When a wicked man dies, his expectation will perish, and the hope of the unjust perishes. The righteous is delivered from trouble, and it comes to the wicked instead. The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered. When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices; and when the wicked perish, there is jubilation. By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace.
Vespers, 3rd Reading: Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15
But the righteous man, though he die early, will be at rest. For old age is not honored for length of time, nor measured by number of years; but understanding is gray hair for men, and a blameless life is ripe old age. There was one who pleased God and was loved by him, He was caught up lest evil change his understanding or guile deceive his soul. For the fascination of wickedness obscures what is good, and roving desire perverts the innocent mind. Being perfected in a short time, he fulfilled long years; for his soul was pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took him quickly from the midst of wickedness. Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, nor take such a thing to heart, that God’s grace and mercy are with his elect, and he watches over his holy ones.
Matins Gospel Reading: John 10:1-9
Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this illustration, but they did not understand the things which He spoke to them. Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.
Epistle, Saints Reading: Hebrews 7:26-8:2
For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for his own sins and then for the people’s, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. For the law appoints as high priests men who have weakness, but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints the Son who has been perfected forever. Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.
Gospel, Saints Reading: Matthew 5:14-19
You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Epistle Reading: Acts 5:21-33
And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught. But the high priest and those with him came and called the council together, with all the elders of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came and did not find them in the prison, they returned and reported, saying, “Indeed we found the prison shut securely, and the guards standing outside before the doors; but when we opened them, we found no one inside!” Now when the high priest, the captain of the temple, and the chief priests heard these things, they wondered what the outcome would be. So one came and told them, saying, “Look, the men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people!” Then the captain went with the officers and brought them without violence, for they feared the people, lest they should be stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest asked them, saying, “Did we not strictly command you not to teach in this name? And look, you have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man’s blood on us!” But Peter and the other apostles answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus whom you murdered by hanging on a tree. Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.” When they heard this, they were furious and plotted to kill them.
Gospel Reading: John 6:14-27
Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, “This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.” Therefore when Jesus perceived that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He departed again to the mountain by Himself alone. Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, got into the boat, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was already dark, and Jesus had not come to them. Then the sea arose because a great wind was blowing. So when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near the boat; and they were afraid. But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Then they willingly received Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land where they were going. On the following day, when the people who were standing on the other side of the sea saw that there was no other boat there, except that one which His disciples had entered, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with His disciples, but His disciples had gone away alone – however, other boats came from Tiberias, near the place where they ate bread after the Lord had given thanks – when the people therefore saw that Jesus was not there, nor His disciples, they also got into boats and came to Capernaum, seeking Jesus. And when they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “Rabbi, when did You come here?” Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.”
Saints and Feasts celebrated today
- Commemoration of the Founding of Constantinople
- Hieromartyr Mocius the Presbyter of Amphipolis in Macedonia
- Equals of the Apostles and Teachers of the Slavs, Cyril and Methodius
- Venerable Sophronius the Recluse of the Kiev Far Caves
- St. Joseph the Metropolitan of Astrakhan
- St. Nicodemus the Archbishop of Serbia
- St. Rostislav the Prince of Great Moravia
- New Martyr Dioscorus
- New Martyr Argyrus
- Blessed Christopher, called Christesia
Today’s Fasting Guidelines
Today is Fast Free
No fasting restrictions


Zan Tyler was threatened with jail when she began homeschooling in 1984. After years of fighting for the rights of her family and other homeschoolers, Zan founded and presided over the South Carolina Association of Independent Home Schools for ten years. She has received several honors for her work advocating for homeschooling and parental rights, including the Chris Klicka Lifetime Service Award, as well as the Order of the Palmetto from the governor of South Carolina. Zan’s greatest privilege in life was the twenty-one years she and husband Joe spent homeschooling their three children from kindergarten through high school.
Mothers Are Kingdom Builders
From teaching phonics to building faith, from changing diapers to graduating teens, our lives as homeschooling moms run the gamut from the very mundane to the very meaningful. In the midst of the mind-boggling demands of homeschooling and everyday life, we constantly need to remind ourselves that our work as homeschooling mothers has tremendous eternal significance—we are truly building God’s kingdom one child and one family at a time. As our culture deteriorates and our nation faces serious challenges, the stakes couldn’t be higher. By developing strong families and rich relationships, helping our children discover their gifts and callings in life, and providing stimulating academics with a biblical worldview, we are raising children who, by God’s grace, can change the world for His glory.
How to Cultivate Your Children’s Potential
When you look at your children, do you see only little people making demands on your time? Or do you see what God sees—a landscape of limitless possibilities? Author and homeschool mom Zan Tyler wants to take you beyond the demands of everyday life to embrace a wondrous, life-giving vision for your children’s future. You will learn to recognize the signs of potential in your children’s lives—signs that are easy to miss yet ripe for cultivation. You will begin to see every facet of each child’s life through the eyes of faith and the lens of Scripture and to create a vision of hope and beauty. You will also look to the Master Gardener as you learn to use the tools He has given you for cultivating that child’s potential. Let Zan show you how to help your kids establish a godly identity, discover their purpose, develop a biblical worldview, and build leadership and communication skills. You will come away with a vision of child-raising so captivating and enthralling that you will know, come bedtime, it’s all been well worth the effort.
Raising Children to Be Intentional Christians in a “Whatever” World
Our children live in the midst of a secular culture and face a host of frightening problems that we never had to deal with at their age. Because they are not prepared to counter our culture, startling percentages of children raised in evangelical homes do not continue in their faith and beliefs into adulthood. For this reason, training our children to develop a strong biblical worldview is one of the most vital things we can do. Teaching them to think biblically about all areas of life equips them to become powerful thinkers, leaders, and communicators. Most importantly, it also gives staying power to their faith as they face opposition. In this session, Zan Tyler provides practical answers to the following questions:
• What is a biblical worldview and why is it crucial for my children?
• How can I teach worldview—especially if I don’t understand it myself?
• How can I teach worldview to my elementary-aged children?
• How can studying the life of Daniel change my teenager’s life?
Our goal as Christian homeschoolers must be bigger and broader than turning out kids with exceptional talent and high SAT scores. By incorporating worldview training, we can better equip them to use their gifts to impact the world for Christ, help others by solving real problems, and bring glory to God in the process.
How Do I Teach My Elementary-Aged Children to Have a Biblical Worldview?
Teaching our children to think biblically is one of the most important gifts we can give them. And we shouldn’t wait until the high school years to do this! Come to this workshop to find out:
• Why the elementary years are so important in developing a biblical worldview
• How to teach important theological truths to youngsters
• How to train even young children to analyze the culture, literature, and music
• How worldview training imparts longevity and vitality to faith
Talk with Me: How Conversation Stimulates Learning
In the traditional school environment, students have an average of eight to ten individual interactions with their teacher each day. In your homeschool, these verbal interactions can number in the hundreds and thus greatly enhance the education your children receive at home. Zan Tyler shares how the simple, free tool of conversation can help your children replace boredom during lessons with a motivation to learn. Discover why parents make the best teachers and capitalize on these strengths. Explore ways to minimize conflict in your home and promote camaraderie and enthusiasm instead. Identify simple but profound ways to replace drudgery in learning with stimulating academics. Conversation is key!
Praying Powerfully for Our Children: Lessons I Learned from My Dad
In our time together, Zan Tyler focuses on the powerful effects of parental prayer—prayer that changes lives and the course of history. We can learn how to be dynamic teachers, mentors, and advocates for our children through imitating Christ and following His example. Christ sacrificed Himself for us and now lives to advocate for us (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25). As parents, our call is to lay down our lives daily for our children and to pray powerfully and meaningfully for them. Join Zan as she delves into Isaiah 45 to gain a vision for prayer and learn how to pray in a compelling way for your children. She also looks at the homeschooling journey itself as an integral part of intercessory prayer.
Living in the Fiery Furnace: How to Avoid Homeschool Burnout
The combination of great expectations and great demands that homeschooling places on parents often sets us up for an intense sense of failure and disappointment. Homeschooling doesn’t always go according to our plans. Even when we are doing our best to follow God and love our families, we find ourselves in the “fiery furnace.” In this workshop, Zan Tyler explores the causes of burnout and talks about ways to avoid them. She also explains what to do if you are already there—ready to throw in the towel and put your children on that appealing yellow school bus. This workshop contains many practical tips on streamlining your life, but it also focuses on developing a powerful, biblical vision of what you are ultimately trying to accomplish in the lives of your children through homeschooling—to sustain you through the hard times and difficult days.
How God Uses Our Weaknesses and Limitations as Homeschooling Mothers
Do you ever have those moments of panic when you wonder if you are giving your children everything they need to succeed in life? Do you worry that you are inadequate for all that homeschooling requires of you? Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night plagued by the long list of important things that still need to be done—and know there will never be enough time in the day to accomplish them? Join Zan Tyler in this workshop and be encouraged by the Bible’s promises of hope, strength, power, and help for those of us who are weak, weary, and imperfect as we bask in God’s boundless resources, amazing strength, and infinite love.
Running the Homeschool Marathon: 10 Training Tips
Homeschooling is more like a 26-mile marathon than a 100-yard dash. If you want to complete the race successfully, you must develop a training strategy that builds your strength, stamina, and vision and enables you to persevere until the end. Zan Tyler, who homeschooled her three children for twenty-one years, provides training tips that will help you complete the God-given task of homeschooling and help you “run with endurance the race that lies before us.”
Overwhelmed? How the Bible Can Solve Your Homeschooling Challenges
Do you ever struggle as a homeschooling mother? Come discover the hope and help the Word of God gives when it comes to the daily grind of homeschooling. In this workshop, Zan Tyler opens the Bible to answer these questions:
• How can I overcome feeling overwhelmed, intimidated, or fearful when I think about homeschooling and the new school year?
• Can studying the Bible help me with the practical problems that I encounter on a daily basis?
• How can I seek God when I’m always surrounded by children?
• I know the Word of God is living, active, and powerful, but can it really help me deal with the overwhelming responsibilities and demands in my life as a homeschooling mom?
• I’m really struggling with homeschooling, choosing curriculum, and learning styles. Does the Bible get that specific?
God’s Word provides hope, encouragement, motivation, and comfort—and real help. Join Zan as we look to it today and find the Good News you have been seeking!
Cultivating a Servant’s Heart in Your Child
Loving our neighbors as we love ourselves is the hallmark of being a Christian. According to Jesus, serving our neighbor is not optional. Most children do not intuitively know how to serve others—we first must model service for them and teach them how to serve. We must make service to others a priority in our homes, or it will likely never be a priority for our children. In a typical school environment, surrounded by peers, a child’s tendency is to fit in and be popular; this escalates to new dimensions during adolescence. Use the flexibility of homeschooling to build service projects into your school day and to remind your children of Jesus’ command to love your neighbor as you love yourself. In this workshop, Zan discusses many practical ideas to teach your children how to serve and love others.
The Best Years of All: Homeschooling in High School
Most of us dread homeschooling during the high school years because it seems so overwhelming. The challenge of preparing our children for college, career, and life is daunting. But the high school years can be the best years of all—by far the most rewarding and enjoyable. Come to this workshop and find out why!


Janet L. Hartwick, 67, of Bedford died Jan. 13, 2014. She is survived by her children, Terry Hartwick, Wendy (Kevin) Bober, Melissa (Louis) Percarpio, Quentin Hartwick and Daniel (April) Hartwick. Funeral services were held at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 18, 2014 at the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church, Bedford. Arrangements by Bedford Funeral Home.
The Guest Book is expired.
Bedford Funeral Home
1039 Rock Castle Road Bedford, VA 24523-4104
Published in Bedford Bulletin from Jan. 22 to Jan. 23, 2014


If someone is pro-life (and Christians are called to be pro-life, as our Creator is), they value life in all forms, from conception to its end. That means supporting a pregnant teenager and a family with 6 kids. It also means supporting a family with 1 child and the 83-year-old lady who spent her life serving the Lord single in Indonesia. It means viewing each and every life as a precious miracle. No matter how many kids a couple has, each one is a miracle, whether or not the child was "easily" conceived or whether it took years of trying.
I expressed similar thoughts when I wrote, "300 Million, What A Blessing."


What Does it Look Like?
A commonly recurring conversation these days centers on the question, “What does it look like to really actually live and be church this way?” If you aren’t sure about the setting of this conversation check out my recent post on Questions.
So, in my last post I referred to David Fitch who currently serves as one of the pastors at Life on the Vine Christian Community – a church he helped plant in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. He is also a professor at Northwest Seminary where he heads up the M.A. in Missional Church Ministry…I kinda wish I knew about that program 8 years ago when I started grad school…
Well, it seems that Chris and I are going to have to take measures against David Fitch because he has apparently been eavesdropping on our conversations about being church in our community.
Disclaimer: tongue planted firmly in cheek – in reality, we would be skipping gleefully if someone (anyone) thought our conversations were worth eavesdropping!
Any-who, David’s most recent post on Instilling Missional Habits in a Congregation is worth reading. It is short and it is pretty much verbatim how we’re encouraging participants in the Christ Journey to see and function in this community. So, if you want to hear someone smarter than us speak with brevity on the issue check it out.
This way of living is so very difficult here in the Bible Belt because many people (even those with no church background to speak of) have firmly established concepts of church as place and church as a worship service. Transitioning to life shared in way of Jesus is counter-cultural – for both the “secular” and the “religious” cultures of our area.


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The Christmas Story - Grandma's Reading Corner
Day 24 of our:
Here we are at our last book of this heart-warming series of 24 Days of Christmas Books. We've made it! I pray that it has been a blessing to you and your family during this Christmas season.
We have kept this book until today because this is the book that tells THE story of Christmas - the story of Jesus' birth. There is no greater story around that this one!
(affiliate links are used)


Marie and I have been very busy since we stepped away from the church. We have been staying with my parents in Hot Springs Village, Arkansas while we are looking for a motorhome to live in full-time. In just over 4 weeks we have logged something around 7000 road miles and a Cuba mission trip.
We went to Houston and on to California's Coachella Valley to visit our kids and grandkids over the holidays.
Then on the way back to Arkansas we got called with an invite to go to Cuba. We diverted and went on to New Orleans to fly out with 2 days notice. In between these events we made a trip to Dallas, to Tulsa, to Bentonville, AR, to Branson, MO, to Okmulgee, OK and to Brandon, MS to look at motorhomes. We have seen a couple that we were interested in but we have not settled on anything yet.
As I write we are in Flowood, MS at the Vineyard helping Beau and Rachel Burnham navigate the accounting and end-of-year activities in the absence of Annell Bowman, Associate Pastor and church bookkeeper/office manager. Annell has been battling Covid pneumonia for 3 weeks and is still hospitalized. (Keep praying for full healing and recovery for Annell)
We are continuing to raise monthly support. We believe God has called us to go encourage and strengthen leaders and churches. We are so grateful for those who have already committed to our mission. If you feel God asking you to sow into this mission you can go to http://metronministries.org/giving.


The Old Catholic View of Authority in the Church
Prepared by the Rev. Dr. M. Parmentier for the Fourth Synod of the Central Diocese, PNCC. Deals with the Old Catholic view of authority in matters of what is authority, what is the Church and Papal Primacy. Paperback, 29 pages.


YOUNGSTERS attending the Toybox Nursery at Deeside College have been full of the Easter spirit this week after taking part in a number of fun eggstraspecial activities.
Activities on the Connah’s Quay campus included an Easter parade where the children showed off Easter bonnets they had made, an Easter egg hunt and cake making session.
Toybox nursery manger Ann Johnson said: “This event has proved to be a huge success. All of the children have thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
“All of their Easter bonnets were fabulous; it was obvious that lots of work had gone into them.”


connecting people to the gospel
Sermons from First Baptist Church of St. Charles
First Baptist Church of St. Charles
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Total Sermons: 44
Total Amens: 681
"He who has ears to hear, let him hear". Great crowds came to see Jesus and hear Him speak. They also came to see the miracles. But only those who have faith and believe the Truth of His words are able to hear the Word of God and do it!. For the world His Words are parables that cannot be understood and put into practice.
We can hear Jesus' words and not be saved. We can pray earnestly and not be saved. The Pharisees did these things and Jesus rebuked them; even call them "a brute of vipers". If God's words do not cause us to change our ways, we have no part of the true church. There is a clear, true and sanctified church in Jesus' name. Members of this true church only follow Jesus Christ as their Lord, Savior and Authority,
Often we hear today the phrase: "I am not a sinner". We (the church nationwide) often believe that God will conform to what we see as acceptable as a society. Make no mistake: we are all wretched, undeserved sinners in the eyes of our Lord. Our only chance of salvation is thru the blood of Jesus Christ.
Why do we gather this morning in a sanctuary? Because you are saved? You see it as an obligation? You are curious about God's Word? Or you have no idea why, but something told you to go. One thing is certain; we are gathered to worship God. He called all of us here together, no matter what our background is, to share His vision (Word) with all of us.
Have you professed faith in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, but sometimes ask yourself if He is truly the One? Do not be discouraged by this, as even John the Baptist had the same doubt at one point (Luke 7:19). John's (or yours) faith was not failing him; he just needed strengthening and affirmation of his faith. When you doubt, pray for strength and affirmation from our God.


Tyndale House & DaySpring team up to deliver timely message of hope & encouragement through Bible collaboration
NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible to Release in October
Carol Stream, Ill., Aug. 23, 2021—In the midst of national concern over the economy, the ongoing pandemic, and mental health issues, Tyndale House Publishers and DaySpring have teamed up for the October release of the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible, a Bible designed to provide hope and encouragement during any season of life, but particularly during the trying times many are currently experiencing.
The NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible includes a reading plan that amplifies 12 Indisputable Truths about who each of us is in Christ, including: you are known, you are not alone, you have a purpose, and you have a reason for hope. These truths equip readers to recognize and embrace their treasured place in God’s heart in order to face any challenge and step into even the toughest calling.
“It’s a privilege to collaborate with DaySpring on the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible,” said Jim Jewell, senior director of marketing and communication for Tyndale House. “Our shared vision to bring the Word of God to people in need of renewed hope and fresh encouragement seems particularly relevant during this time in history.”
“This year, DaySpring celebrates its 50th anniversary, and we’ve included our most encouraging and hopeful messages from the past five decades in the new NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible,” said Joy Groblebe, content marketing director for DaySpring. “We’ve included content that has resonated most with our audience through the years as a companion to their Scripture reading.”
Distinctives of the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible include:
- Full text of the trusted New Living Translation
- 52 full-page devotionals from bestselling DaySpring books
- 250+ reflective DaySpring inspirations
- 12 Indisputable Truths reading plans
- Full-color interior, including 16-page Visual Overview of the Bible
- Tyndale Verse Finder
- Wide margins for journaling and note-taking
NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible
(Tyndale House Publishers, ISBN: 978-1-4964-5292-4).
Hardcover: $37.49. LeatherLike cover: $44.99.
About Tyndale House Publishers
Since its founding in 1962, Tyndale House Publishers has been a voice to trust for generations of readers. Today, Tyndale is one of the largest independent Christian publishers in the world. Tyndale’s mission is to make the Bible accessible to as many people as possible in language that they can relate and respond to. Tyndale publishes the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT) and offers nonfiction books that equip readers with Christ-centered insight, counsel, and life-improving stories. In addition, Tyndale publishes fiction from fresh new voices and celebrated authors alike, capturing the imagination of millions of readers. With a deep understanding of the importance of nurturing future generations, Tyndale also publishes children’s products that make God’s Word and wisdom come alive. Tyndale’s independent status allows it to follow its founding model, giving a majority of annual revenue—more than $110 million throughout its history—to charitable missions. With every book purchased, Tyndale readers help meet the physical and spiritual needs of people around the world.
DaySpring, the world’s largest Christian-message product provider, was founded in 1971 with a single Christmas card. Today DaySpring offers more than 6,000 products—from greeting cards to home décor, specialty gifts to devotional books. In 1999, DaySpring was acquired by Hallmark Cards, Inc. DaySpring products are in Christian retail outlets, mass retail stores, card and gift shops and other outlets in the United States and 60 foreign countries. DaySpring is based in Siloam Springs, Ark., and employs a staff of more than 80 people. Visit www.dayspring.com for more information about the company, to find a local retailer, and to send a free e-card.
DaySpring is a registered trademark of DaySpring Cards, Inc.
MEDIA NOTE: For more information, or to arrange an interview about the NLT DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible, contact Laura McGowan at firstname.lastname@example.org or call (847) 347-5206.
FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT: Laura McGowan (847) 347-5206, email@example.com


by: Pastor Isaias T. Songcuan Jr.
Is it possible to live a Holy life in today’ s world? Every period of time and civilization in world History has always its temptation. In fact, temptation already begun in the time of Adam and Eve. However, each period there’s always a record of people who chose to be different by living for God.
One of these people who chose Godly living was Noah. During those time people practice wickedness and they did what is evil continually in the eyes of the Lord (Genesis 6 :11-12 ). In contrast with their actions, Noah chose to be different. He found grace and favor in the eyes of God. In Lot days, the nephew of Abraham (Genesis 11:27). The immorality had reached its peak with the general acceptance of homosexuality as a way of life (Sodom and Gomorrah, Genesis 19). However, Lot chose to be different. His soul was troubled daily with the deeds of the people.
The issue of the society being difficult to analyzed or understand today. It seems this is an excuse for continuing to sin, because these sins are being justified by the sinners They have always some alibis, grounds, and defense of continue living in sin. It is clear that in the History of mankind, there were attempts by man even today to call sin different names. In contents and practices, sin has not change. Sin is sin. Modern man in his complex society, may describe immorality as fun. Cheating as making some runs, Stealing as doing business, acts of fornication, adultery, covetousness, and greed.
Is it still possible to live for God in today’s world? Every believer should bear and keeps inside the mind that God’s standard, and goal in life are different from the society. Our decisions, actions, and reactions in any situations should be guided by the word of God. Not by the ideas of people no matter how well- placed such person is or political circles. The Lord remains our perfect example. He is the one we must decide to follow and listen to. God’s grace will always be available to us as we are determined to obey Him in all circumstances of life.
The list of activities that can contaminate and destroy a believer’s life is plenty and superabundant. However, the believer of Jesus Christ can avoid or stay away from such things by-making up his mind to stay away from all appearance of evil. Take time to meditate these Bible verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:22, and 1 Corinthians 15:33, “Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals (ESV).” Keeping company with evil inclined person breeds evil behavior.
These are 6 factors that will help us maintain holiness as the Lord’s representative and ambassadors in this world includes ;
1). Regular prayer life.
The believer must have a regular and personal prayer life . He must develop a habit of praying . The Lord teaches that men ought to pray and not to faint.
“Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17, ESV).”
2). Studying the word of God.
Many believers are lazy when it comes to reading and studying scriptures. Read your Bible, and pray everyday if you want to grow.
“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way (Joshua 1:8, ESV).”
3). Submit yourself to God.
We must bear and keep in mind our God is supreme and ultimate power, and so He must be allowed to work out His plans and purposes in our lives as our sovereign God.
“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:7, ESV).”
4). Surrender everything to God.
The devil often brings temptations and trials to the believer. We should be grateful to God that we entered into His warfare against the enemy from the standpoint of victory. Let us remember that our master is Jesus Christ who conquered satan long ago.
“He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him (Colossians 2: 15, ESV).”
5). Maintain a Heavenly Focus.
It is important for us believers to always remember that our ultimate in life is to make it to heaven.
“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory (Colossians 3:2-4, ESV).”
6). Let the Lord Jesus remain the Perfect example .
In all issues in faith and life, the Lord Jesus remains our perfect example. We should not make human beings our standard and reference point.
“looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God
(Hebrews 12:2, ESV).”
Another characteristic of a holy life is Contentment. The believer is content each day while He or she trust God for a better tomorrow. The benefits of living a holy life are numerous. Our Lord Jesus Christ gives us peace with God, and living in holiness guarantees peace of mind with our fellowmen. Most specially Holy living attracts God’s blessings (Deuteronomy 28:1-14).
Finally, We are called to Holy living. A Holy lifestyle which includes loving God and loving one another, personal discipline, controlling our bodies, speaking truthfully, and humility. Every believer must accept holy living as a personal lifestyle for therein lies the secret of experiencing and seeing the Lord. To God Be The Glory!


Nestled in the middle of one the Bible’s most well-known passages is God’s definition of good. Megan Fate Marshman sits down with Rebecca Carrell and Liz Rodriguez to discuss what the world gets wrong about “good” and how God’s definition can set us free from life’s heaviest burdens.
Join the conversation! Follow us on our social media platforms:
Twitter: @RebeccaACarrell ; @lizannrod ; @HeartStrongF
Instagram: @rebeccacarrell ; @lizannrodriguez ; @heartstrongfaith
Like what you hear? Please rate, review, and subscribe to the Honest Conversations Podcast.
As an international speaker at churches, conferences, and university chapels, Megan Fate Marshman is a leading voice to this generation. She has devoted her life to loving God and overflowing His awesome love to others.
Megan is currently teaching at Willow Creek Community Church and the Director of Women’s Ministries at Hume Lake Christian Camps. She also shepherds women at her home church, Arbor Road. She also enjoys adventuring all over the globe with her family speaking and sharing the love of Jesus.
She authored the books “Meant for Good” and “SelfLess,” and co-wrote the book, “7 Family Ministry Essentials,” with Dr. Michelle Anthony. Megan also served as the Director of Student Resources for David C Cook Publishers, where she led a team in creating TruIdentity, a spiritually forming, Christ-centered, and family empowered youth ministry curriculum.
Megan lives in Lakewood, California, with her husband Randy, and their two boys.
Listen to the full episode of the podcast below!
Also, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review the “Honest Conversations | HeartStrong Faith” podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, iHeartRadio, Spotify, and all the other platforms!
You can also access the podcast and many other great resources by clicking here!


What is Encounter Kids?
Every Sunday children ages birth to 5th grade are taught the Bible in a creative and relevant way. We take kids on a Christ-centered, chronological journey through Scripture. From praying over our infants to age-appropriate lessons for toddlers, preschoolers and elementary kids, eKids is kid-inspired with energetic worship music, interactive games , small groups, and super fun environments! Kids discover how the gospel unfolds from Genesis through Revelation. When kids truly experience the gospel, their hearts are transformed. It is Jesus, not good behavior, that changes everything.
Bible Adventure Club, our Wednesday evening gathering for kids in K-5th grade, is a club that strives to get kids into God's Word regularly. We learn and memorize His Word through activities, songs, mid-week booklets and games! We learn and grow by "solving" some of the Bible’s most popular and unpopular stories and applying that to our lives in a practical way.
For the younger ones, babies to preschoolers, we provide childcare on Wednesday evenings while parents attend eGroups.
First Time Guests
We suggest arriving 20 minutes prior to the service starting time to check your child in. Our check-in desk is inside the front doors to your right. One of our leaders will walk you through the check-in process and lead you to your child’s age appropriate room.


It felt pretty surreal last week when Austin came into the living room to tell me that he added my book to his Amazon wishlist. He said it half-joking, knowing that we’d get our own copies from the publishing house when it is released. But he was also serious: Fix Your Eyes was actually available for preorder on Amazon. What?!?
I’m not in the habit of googling my own name (barf, that sounds like the literal worst way to spend time), but I just had to type my name into the Amazon search bar – just to see it for myself. Sure enough, there was the finalized cover art and preorder like. Eeee! My stomach did three backflips and tripped over itself a little bit!
This book has been a labor of love from the start. Maybe you know the back story, and maybe you don’t, but it all began with a series of IG messages from you all – those of you wanting to find good theological resources that didn’t take you five years to read. Those of you wanting to avoid the harshness and abrasiveness that often comes in theological circles (and SHOULDN’T!). Those of you wanting to know how what you were learning about God in the Word actually intersected with your day-to-day life – how does it affect parenting and school and work and friendships and home and money and church?
All of these questions left me staring at a huge blank space in our Christian circles. I could see on my left a world of theology – and I loved it! And I could see on my right a world of worship and discipleship – also, LOVE! But right between the two was this massive gap, and I couldn’t take my eyes off it.
After wrestling and reading and praying and researching I found the bridge that should connect the two, and are you as surprised as I was to find that the bridge is actually GOD HIMSELF? The thing that connects our knowledge of God with our worship of Him is actually, well, him. It’s GOD who pulls theology out of the abstract, making it a real study of a real God. And it’s GOD who grounds our worship in a God who has made himself known to us in his Word. What was missing between the two worlds was fixing our eyes on GOD, who brings both into focus.
That’s what this book is all about, and I can’t wait to share it with you!


For we walk by faith, not by sight [living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises]— (2 Corinthians 5:7,
God works with our Faith. This contain post about Faith. How to live our daily lives without fear.
Make Room For Your Blessings
God makes everything happen at the right time. Yet none of us can ever fully understand all he has done, and he puts questions in
Thought for the Day: Faith Makes Things Possible (02.02.22)
And the Lord said, “If you have [confident, abiding] faith in God [even as small] as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry
Is There A Need In Your Life?
Our God is a need-meeter. In a new day, we see the sun works, the earth revolves, enough oxygen for every Creature, water reaches us,
Your Victory Over Storms
Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith? (Mark 4:40, NLT) The Story (Mark 4:35-41) Jesus told his disciples that “Let’s cross to
1 2 3 … 14 Next Posts»


Bishop Hope Morgan Ward and Bishop-elect Leonard Fairley address the NC Conference after the Wednesday evening session of SEJ 2016.
There is no place in Methodism that has seen more episcopal elections than Stuart Auditorium on the campus of Lake Junaluska. By the close of the afternoon session July 13, five new bishops had been elected in the historic building that has been the site of the Southeastern Jurisdictional Conference since 1956. Among the five… Continue Reading→
LAKE JUNALUSKA, NC – Leonard Fairley, a native of Laurinburg and a district superintendent in the North Carolina Conference, has been elected a bishop of The United Methodist Church. The election was announced Wednesday afternoon, July 13, during the meeting of the denomination’s Southeastern Jurisdiction at Lake Junaluska. Delegates from nine Southern states began meeting… Continue Reading→
The NCC delegation announced Friday that the nominee for the office of bishop is the Rev. Leonard E. Fairley. Annual Conference members stood to endorse Fairley as nominee for the office of Bishop in the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church. Election of bishops takes place during the SE Jurisdictional Conference this summer at Lake Junaluska. In… Continue Reading→
The opening worship All Saints Celebration celebrated the generous examples of giving and service offered by the clergy and the spouses of clergy who have transitioned to be with the great cloud of witnesses. We are reminded of their selfless dedication and service. In his sermon, the Reverend Leonard Fairley, District Superintendent of the Capital… Continue Reading→
With a clergy processional, the 2016 North Carolina Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church began with the All Saints Celebration and Memorial Service. Candles covered the altar and set an atmosphere of holiness and reverence. “As you are seated, look to your left and to your right and there you see the saints of… Continue Reading→
During General Conference 2016, we are going to feature delegate stories from our NC Conference delegates, so you can learn more about them and the committees they will be serving. Here are the questions we asked: Tell us about how you came to know Jesus. Tell us about your committee. What do you feel is… Continue Reading→
The Rev. Leonard Fairley, superintendent of the North Carolina Conference Capital District, has been selected by the conference delegation to the General and Southeastern Jurisdictional Conferences as their nominee to be elected a bishop in The United Methodist Church. “Selected by the delegation, following the process approved by the Annual Conference, the delegation is delighted… Continue Reading→


Nigeria’s progress tied to leadership, says fellowship
Speaking during the opening s of the 2018 Lagos National Convention in Lagos with the theme, “An Open Door”, he noted that quality and great leaders were known to have godly principles
Odedo therefore advised that as the 2019 general elections draw nearer, Nigerians should vote for candidates who have integrity, capacity and competence to work for the people.
He submitted that the country was in dire need of a set of leaders who had the genuine interest to deliver it from its multifarious challenges and put it on the part of glory, victory and economic enhancement.
On the theme of the event, he said: “The destiny of Nigeria is in God’s hands, and God who knows our hearts and the hearts of citizens of this nation. He hears the cry of the poor, the destitute, the needy, the afflicted, the widows, the orphans, and so many that have been displaced in this country, who are lamenting day and night before him.”
The occasion is the 87th convention of the global movement of laymen and the largest in the world. The national president said it comprised 3,500 chapters in Nigeria alone and about 6000 chapters internationally.
He said the gathering is an assembly of professionals, businessmen, prime ministers, presidents, governors, parliamentarians, high court judges and captains of industries among others.
He added: “We have come to Lagos from far and near, bringing men and women of this fellowship into the centre spot for us to be able to light a great fire, fire of integrity and transparency.”


- This event has passed.
September 12, 2022 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
We are excited to welcome back Barry Young for our annual Fall Conference. We are believing God for an outpouring of His favor, grace, and power in our lives and our church. We hope you will join us on Sunday, September 11, during one of our four Sunday services and Sunday, September 11- Wednesday, September 14 at 7:00PM in the Sanctuary and online. For more information, please contact the church office at 781.592.4722 or office@calvarychristian.


Once again, I (Maureen) see a Great Flame that I have come to know as the Heart of God the Father. He says: “Children, at your judgment, the soul's values are convicted in the Truth. What seemed so important in the world, he holds in the Light of Holy Truth in his heart. Everything that he accomplished in Holy Love* to please Me, now gives him confidence before My Son.** The sins he never repented for now seem as lodestones around his neck. The soul desires only to love Me and to be near Me.”
“The soul's judgment is the accounting of his efforts to earn Heaven. It is in that brief moment all Truth of good versus evil is made known to him. There is no negotiating – no sugarcoating of the Truth. His salvation and/or damnation is determined by the state of his soul in his last breath. Each soul's guardian angel is with him as he stands in judgment. All opportunities to win My Son's favor are over. The soul sees clearly the state of his soul.”
“Life is all about being prepared spiritually for that moment. It is about being worthy of Heaven. These things are true whether you believe or not.”
Read Titus 2:11-14+
For the grace of God has appeared for the salvation of all men, training us to renounce irreligion and worldly passions, and to live sober, upright, and godly lives in this world, awaiting our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all iniquity and to purify for himself a people of his own who are zealous for good deeds.
+ Scripture verses asked to be read by God the Father. (Please note: all Scripture given by Heaven refers to the Bible used by the visionary. Ignatius Press – Holy Bible – Revised Standard Version – Second Catholic Edition.)
* For a PDF of the handout: ‘WHAT IS HOLY LOVE', please see: https://www.holylove.org/What_is_Holy_Love
** Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.


Bonclarken Conference Center
500 Pine Drive,
Flat Rock, NC 28731
(T) 828.692.2223 (FAX) 828.697.1735
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Questions: Missy Honeycutt, email@example.com
Mail: The Singles Network Ministries, 638 Spartanburg Hwy Ste 70-113, Hendersonville, NC 28792
To help offset costs for the retreat and/or provide money for our scholarship fund with a tax break, make your check out to Kris Swiatocho Ministries, 638 Spartanburg Hwy, Suite 70-113, Hendersonville, NC 28792 or click below to donate online. If you need a letter to give out that shares what we are about, let us know.


Serving Christ by serving His church
"He has put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and hear and put their trust in the Lord. Psalm 40:3
Voice of Praise is a choral community in Christ, singing His praise, telling His story, encouraging His followers.
Who is Voice of Praise?
We are a sacred community choir made up of people from local churches seeking an opportunity to join their many voices into one voice to sing for the glory of God and to serve his local church
What is its purpose
Voice of Praise will sing in area churches providing service music and leadership for worship services. It will also sing in larger community events.
When will it sing?
Voice of Praise will be scheduled to sing at participating churches about every six weeks.
When does it rehearse ?
Voice of Praise rehearsals are on Tuesday nights at 7:00 at Briggs Road Evangelical Free Church 4654 Briggs Road, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Contact Tom Hilker at email@example.com or by phone 262-325-0762
Calendar 2020 -2021 season will be starting on September 15th Our plans are to begin rehearsing with attention to social distsance in our seating. There will be guidlines for attendance at rehearsals so we can carefully begin again.
Remember to think about these things that bring vitality to your singing:
Diction, Rhythm, Melody and Line, Dynamics, Pitch


Chrysler's Lee Iacocca remembered for being a courteous family man
Family and friends gathered Wednesday morning to pay tribute to famed auto executive Lee Iacocca.
Iacocca died last week at his home in Bel Air, California. He was 94.
The funeral mass, which took place at St. Hugo of the Hills Church in Bloomfield Hills, was celebrated by Monsignor Anthony Tocco.
Among the readings during the funeral service was "The souls of the just are in the hands of God” from the Book of Wisdom and "If I have all the eloquence of men or of angels but speak without love I am simply a gong booming or a cymbal clashing” from the First Letter of Paul to the Corinthians.
The eulogy was delivered by Monsignor Howard Lincoln of Sacred Heart Church in Palm Desert, California, where Iacocca was a member of the parish.
“For decades, Lee’s feet and hands moved mountains,” Lincoln told those at the service. “Lee always seemed to me to never really be down,” he continued. “Somehow, even at the darkest hours, I think he knew somehow even Chrysler would work out.”
Lincoln continued, “Lee knew that this life was his once in a lifetime opportunity and he wanted his life to matter. ... He was an elevating influence for our parish. I think he saw the importance of being kind and courteous to everybody. ... 'Yes', he said, 'I've had a wonderful and successful career but next to my family, it doesn’t matter at all.’ ”
After remarks by family members recalling Iacocca's love of Christmas and family gatherings, the service concluded with the hymn "How Great Thou Art" with its refrain "Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee, how great Thou art! How great Thou art!"
A great career
During the height of his career in the 1980s, Iacocca was arguably the most popular business figure in the world. Pictures of him, often with his trademark cigar, were on magazine covers and TV screens.
During his career, he was credited both with creating the iconic Ford Mustang and, later, for persuading Congress to bail out a bankruptcy Chrysler in the late 1970s.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, the successor to Iacocca's Chrysler, aptly called Iacocca "one of the great leaders of our company and the auto industry as a whole. ... He also played a profound and tireless role on the national stage as a business statesman and philanthropist. Lee gave us a mindset that still drives us today — one that is characterized by hard work, dedication and grit."
Iacocca was to be buried at White Chapel Cemetery in Troy.


The Holy Family
December 27, 2020
Our Christmas liturgies carry our minds and hearts through time and space. The Readings we hear transport Christians around the world out of our parish churches to a dark field on the outskirts of an impoverished little village, where, in spite of the late hour, we are almost blinded by the light of a brilliant star that we’ve never seen before. Oblivious to the sounds and smells of the herd of sheep pressing against our legs, we become spellbound by angelic voices, singing so beautifully that we are overwhelmed with joy.
Following the directions of these visitors from heaven, we find ourselves moving, drawn with a sense of urgency toward something in the distance. We arrive at a stable filled with livestock, standing calmly around a manger that appears to be glowing. We look down and see a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and nestled in fresh straw. The child’s parents stand guard on either side of Him. The look on their faces is a mixture of fatigue and pure love.
We feel a touch on our shoulders, pushing us gently to our knees. Somehow, we know that we are on Holy ground, privileged to be invited to witness something miraculous…something sacred. And we do the only thing that seems right. We pray.
We pray with an intensity that we aren’t accustomed to. We pray without asking for anything. Our prayers spring up from deep inside of us. And, no matter what else is happening in our lives, we feel at peace. We are filled with joy, so much so that we wish we could stay in the moment. If only we could always feel this way. We ask ourselves: “Why can’t every day be like this? Why can’t everyday be Christmas?”
Then we hear those words that break the spell: “Our Mass has ended…Go in PEACE!” And that gentle touch returns, only this time to lift us up, turning us towards the doors of our parish church. We carry all of those wonderful feelings we have just experienced to our cars, and we head home.
For some, this special Christmas Peace lingers for hours…days…maybe even for weeks. For others, it disappears the moment we turn the key in the lock and open the door to our home and family.
And so, fast on the heels of our celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ, the Church gives us The Feast of The Holy Family. Just like Christmas…The Liturgy of The Word that unfolds during the Mass celebrating The Holy Family also serves to transport us out of our parish churches. But, today, our journey through space and time is very brief…just a matter of a few miles and a few minutes.
As we hear God’s Word proclaimed…our minds travel from our church to our homes and our families. During this liturgy, we are given a shocking dose of reality. We can’t help but compare our relationship with spouses, parents, children, and siblings with what we hear proclaimed from The Table of The Word. We size up our family life and compare what we see to how we imagine that Jesus, Mary, and Joseph…The Holy Family…lived, once they returned to normal, day-to-day life. They set the bar so high that we inevitably feel that we have fallen short. It occurs to us that for them…Jesus, Mary, and Joseph…
EVERY DAY WAS LIKE CHRISTMAS!
In fact, we know precious little about the day-to-day life of The Holy Family. Their home life is shrouded in sacred mystery. The few details that the Gospels do offer fuel our imaginations. But, when we do imagine life within this earthly home that GOD prepared specially for His only Son, we tend to do what we do at Christmas; we romanticize and dramatize. We risk forgetting what Simeon, inspired by The Holy Spirit, said to The Blessed Mother:
This child will be a sign that will be contradicted-and you, yourself, a sword will pierce!
We don’t know many details about how this family lived, but we can be certain of this much: For them…just like for us…not every day was Christmas. They faced and struggled with the very same challenges that many families deal with today.
They were forced to flee threats of violence. They were a refugee family. That meant that they dealt with things like food scarcity and the tragedy of being homeless. They even had to pay taxes.
Life for them was not always “Christmas!”
We can only imagine how they coped. Today’s Gospel, however, reveals this important detail to help us to “keep it real.” The Holy Family was always faithful to God’s Law and was always inspired and guided by God’s messages delivered by the Prophets. With this as their foundation, they met every adversity with hope in God’s infinite mercy and unconditional love.
They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; they will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint. (Isaiah 40:31)
Our hearts might well wish it, but our heads know that every day cannot be like Christmas. Our family lives, often the source of our greatest joy, for any number of reasons, can very quickly become the cause of our greatest pain. But, inspired by the Holy Family, we can be certain of this: If we place our hope in the Lord, our strength will be renewed…and we can run and not grow weary…until the day when we do soar like eagles.
With all the ups and downs of family life, it’s important for us to remember that our family homes are holy ground…because God has specially prepared them for us.


Matching aprons? Check
Obligatory glass of wine? Check
Oven on? Check
Christmas music blasting? Check
Various tasty things to bake? Check
Awkwardly self taken iPhone photo? Check
Presents wrapped? Check
Perfect Christmas Eve Day!!!
I’ve been spending the day finishing getting stuff ready for Christmas. LOVE IT! Tonight it’s Christmas with G’s mom and brother and tomorrow it’s a Shaw/Welch/Orrom/Walsh/Renken/Nichols family Christmas! It truly is the most wonderful time of year. Merry christmas everyone!!!


Attention, would-be journalists and media professionals: We are looking for writers and photographers (and videographers!) with good reporting skills to cover a number of events that occur day in and day out throughout the vibrant communities that make up the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix. Special events, sacred liturgies, personality profiles, what have you. We’ll even pay you. If this sounds interesting to you and if you love the Church, apply below.


Implementing Natural Church Development (iNCD), led by John and Lynn Chetcuti, is the NCD National Partner for the United Kingdom and Ireland and is about seeing released, the potential that God has invested in our lives. NCD’s church survey is based on research covering more than 70,000 churches, from all denominations, large and small, established and new plants, across all six continents. It identifies universal principles affecting church growth, regardless of culture or spiritual style.
NCD takes the next step in the church development process. Imagine you have taken your church survey and identified which key factors are most limiting your health and growth. Ask yourself, “where do I go from here?”
Armed with the knowledge brought by the survey, you will be able to move your church forward towards healthy growth. If you feel you would value some extra support, NCD provides training and coaching, customised for your needs. We are here to equip you with the tools you need to invest in your church’s health, community well being and growth potential.
NCD’s consultants and coaches are focused on helping you develop the quality of your church; precisely what God intends for His leaders. As a result of increased quality, God always builds His church and so we consequently see numerical growth, that appears to happen – “all by itself.” This emphasis on church health has proved to be the key to ongoing growth and multiplication.