I have always found that Christmas is a natural time to reflect on life. It’s like a marker in the sand. This year seems particularly poignant in that way. Last Christmas I had just been diagnosed with cancer and all the treatment lay ahead of me. This Christmas the treatment is behind me and I am looking forward with fresh hope.
I am doing what might be called “summing up”. I think this is what the writer of the carol Oh little Town of Bethlehem was expressing when he penned the line “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight”. It’s a kind of summary lyric. It summarises so much of what life is about in these two opposites; hope and fear.
But what the writer of the carol does, and what we should do is recognise that we are not just reflecting on life from a human perspective, but also from a divine perspective. We don’t experience the hopes and fears of life in a godless universe, but rather we experience these things with a God who gives us hope and who at the same time also knows our pain.
When Jesus was born in Bethlehem in poverty and vulnerability He proved God’s total commitment to us, and His solidarity with us in our sufferings. He also brought hope that whatever we go through we will overcome in the end, because the baby in the manger IS the Lord of Life whom death could not hold and who was raised back to life for our salvation.
I’m really looking forward to Christmas this year, but not because I’ve nothing to worry about. That next scan in January, and the one after that (and the one after that…) will be enough to keep testing my nerves, but I am looking forward to Christmas because all those fears are put into a different perspective by Jesus and what He means to me, and He is the source of my ultimate hope.
God Bless you this Christmas as you reflect on what has happened through 2015 and become aware again of your hopes and fears. May you also know the difference that the birth of Christ in Bethlehem makes to all those aspirations and anxieties you carry, because “The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight”.
Mark Wickenden, Minister


BIBLE FITNESS PROGRAM: A 2-month adventure (June-July 2017) to help folks get to know their Bible better with weekly worship, readings, and classes.
KICKOFF MESSAGE FROM THE PASTOR
The beginning of summer marks a time when people start thinking
about getting fit. For some, it is an upcoming special event or
reunion that motivates them. For others, it is the anticipated time at
the pool or beach. The summer is a great time for getting fit.
And so, we are going to get fit as a church. No, this won’t really
help you to fit into those smaller pants or wow folks along the
beach. With this program, we are going to get Bible fit. What does
that mean? It means that June and July will be an intentional 8-week
program of helping the people of First United get to know their
Bibles better. We will use 40 key scripture passages divided into five
readings per week to guide our training. Stick with the B-Fit Program
and we will help you to feel more confident in your relationship with
The Bible is such a rich and beautiful resource for us, and yet so
many walk through their lives feeling hesitant and baffled by its
contents. We are committed to empowering people to live into the
new life that God is offering. The Bible holds power and wisdom
that we want all to have. Do not let another summer go by without
getting fit... Bible fit. Then, let us grow stronger and healthier in our
relationship with God together.


In these last four and a half months, as I have lived and served alongside people here in Santiago, I have been given the nickname by the people here as the ¨Pastora of the streets.¨ It is a name that the elders and young kids have given to me and I am honored to have. I have had many conversations with people who have come to me for prayer, for encouragement, for hope in the midst of struggle. I share with them the love God has for them that has been revealed in Christ. And at the same time, I rejoice with them in sharing that I have been delighted to see the hand of Christ in them, illuminating my time here…an Epiphany that occurs almost daily.
I find it quite fitting that my last day in Guatemala falls upon Epiphany. In the Lutheran tradition, Epiphany is a feast day that celebrates the revelation of God in Jesus Christ, the Light of the world. In some Eastern church traditions, it also celebrates the baptism of Christ in the River Jordan. The word, Epiphany, comes from the Greek word that means ¨manifestation, striking appearance, vision of God.¨
As I was telling a friend of mine about my new nickname given to me here, she encouraged me to write a sermon of the streets as I close my time here in Guatemala and as I ponder on what it has meant for us to receive visions of God in this day and in this land these last four and a half months. So here it is, my Epiphany sermon of the streets.
Scars, Story, Name – An Epiphany Sermon of the Streets
I have often wondered what our stories would sound like without scars. If the wounds we hold deep from war, from sickness, from despair, from hunger, from death – were swallowed up and held within an embrace as that of a mother who kisses skinned knees and wipes clean the tears from our faces when struggle is the daily bread that sticks to the roof of our mouths like the tortillas and salt used to still growling stomachs…
She opened her eyes wide as she walked up to me from the shore, her toothless grin competing with the silhouettes of the mountains cascading behind her.
¨Na’abi? What is your name?¨
¨Yaquiel,¨ I replied.
¨Yaquiel,¨ she sighed and repeated over and over again as she walked back to the shore to wash her peraje.
She looked like you – the One who gave us a new name.
He sat across from me in the tienda, tears in his eyes as he told me the memory of his mother saying she wished he were dead. Yet through the tears, he spoke of finding a Love more profound than the story-scabs he carried.
He looked like you – the One who wept alongside us.
She wept into her long, black hair that covered her face. She looked up at me and said, ¨I lost two children in the war, but I have been reminded in these last days what it is like to have a daughter again.¨
She looked like you – the One who yearns to gather us in Your embrace.
He ate lunch with me as he spoke of joining the guerilla army when he was ten years old. A weighted gaze adorned his young, but wrinkled brow that bowed heavily over his tortillas.
He reminded me of You and our yearning for Your Peace to reign eternal…
Like dry bones gifted flesh, we wonder if breath could enter into these scars and bring forth life. We wonder if we are being beckoned to be surprised at the hand of the Christ taking hold of us, showing us that our scars are not signs of punishment or abandonment, but rather that they are moments where we squint more earnestly to see Your hand at work in our world.
The Spirit hand that moves breath into our lungs and into the northern winds that stir up Lake Atitlán. The Spirit that groans alongside us in our daily labors. The Spirit Advocate who sees our scars and cries out for justice. The Spirit that whispers into our scars, ¨Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you. See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.¨* The voice of our Christ who declares, ¨I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you… ¨*
We waited on the shore and watched the sky turn from blue to yellow to purple as the eye of the moon gazed at us from above. We opened wide our scars to the epiphanies around us – the sounds of kids kicking a plastic soccer ball in the street, the waves of Lago Atitlán lapping as a fisherman rowed his cayuca, the splashing and beating of clothes against rocks as women cleaned their cortes, the mists that crowned Volcán San Pedro´s peak, the wrinkled hands of elders who open their homes and hearts, the broken body and blood poured out for us.
We felt the wintery scales from our scars fall off onto the flowered ground of this land of eternal Spring. The scars of our winters cracked open over our stories and ushered us into a womb of an empty grave that birthed us into resurrection, eternal Spring, where scars and wounds were swallowed up and held in an embrace as that of a mother embracing her beloved, as that of the Christ gathering us into His scars.
She emerged from the baptismal waters of Atitlán, ¨Quenta´abi May you be well.¨
She looked like you – the One who emerged from the water, Beloved of God.
We stepped into the Lake, all of us together, speaking a benediction into the breeze before us and behind us. Our words and stories floated in the wind and came back to us.
¨Na’abi? What is your name?¨ the eternal Spring breeze whispered to us.
¨Our name is not orphan,¨ we sang. ¨Our name is child.¨


CHRISTMAS GREETINGS FROM THE MICHIGAN REGION
Merry Christmas from the Regional Resource Center. May your family have a blessed holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus! Regional Office Staff
Al & Kim Yerke, Janet McLavy, Jim Jordan
Regional Oversight Council and Ministry Multiplication Team
About the Michigan Region
The Michigan Region offers a variety of services and ministries to assist the local church in winning, building and equipping disciples for Jesus Christ.
Our Michigan Region Staff is available to help your church with your ministry needs.
Our office hours are Monday through Thursday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
“Every Church mobilizing believers to intentionally lead people to Christ and make disciple-makers.”
Vision Impact… On Point
Every believer a Spirit-empowered follower of Christ
Every follower of Christ a disciple-maker
Every church a disciple-making, church planting church
Our Driving Passion
The Missionary Church is a family of churches committed to the authority of Jesus Christ, the Bible and the Great Commission.
- We pursue relationship with God as our top priority.
- We depend on the Holy Spirit through prayer.
- We introduce people to the gospel and multiply disciples everywhere.
- We value, strengthen and multiply churches.
- We develop Spirit-led leaders to advance God’s mission in the world.
Michigan Region News
- MI Region Conference Handbook 2019-1
- 2018-19 Michigan Region Manual
- MI Region News and Notes 2020-01-2
- Michigan Vision for a Disciple-Making Culture
- 2019 Regional Conference Minutes
- Special Regional Conference Minutes February 23, 2019
- Pastors & Spouses’ Retreat 2020 Brochure
For Our Churches
- Annual/Contact Report – Complete the report online or by printing and mailing to the Regional Resource Center. These reports are due to the Regional Resource Center on February 15.
- Monthly Church Report – This report is due by the first Friday of each month.
Dates to Remember
- February 21-22, 2020 – Pastors & Spouses’ Retreat Brochure
- April 28, 2020 – ReGen 2020 at Elkton Missionary Church
- June 15-19, 2020 – Brown City Kidz Camp
- July 19-25, 2020 – Mancelona Family Camp
- July 30-August 9, 2020 – Brown City Family Camp
To Contact Us:
- 1091 Creekwood Trail, Burton, MI 48509
- Phone: 810-742-7462
- FAX: 810-742-8102
- Email: email@example.com
- Hours: Monday through Thursday (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM)


Charles “Bud” Richard Whetsell, 85, of Kingwood, WV, died on Monday, October 26, 2020, at his home.
Bud was born April 25, 1935, in Whetsell Settlement, to the late Charles Sumner Whetsell and Ruby Bell (Hoffman) Whetsell Allen.
He was a 1953 graduate of Kingwood High School and the Mellon Bank School of Banking. In 1953 Bud won the National Public Speaking Contest in FFA in Kansas City. He was a member of the Wesley United Methodist Church in Kingwood, where he was a Choir and Quartet Member, and a member of the Beatty Methodist Church in the Whetsell Settlement. Bud was the Chairman of the Buckwheat Festival in 2001, a Lieutenant Governor of the Kiwanis Club and Chairman of the Republican Party of Preston County. Bud was an Auditor at the Terra Alta Bank and for the Northern Railroad. He worked for the Governors Highway Safety Administration, then became the Assessor of Preston County for 25 years. His hobbies included golfing, bowling, fishing and hunting. Bud loved his grandchildren and gave his children their faith.
He is survived by his wife, Arlene (Davis) Whetsell; three daughters and spouses, Denise and Ike Harris of Kingwood, Debbie and Marc Halbritter of Richmond, Va, and Danita Sharp of Alexandria, VA; two sisters and spouses, Pauline and Bud Parrack of Oakland, MD, and Martha and Dale Childs of Morgantown; six grandchildren and spouses, Ashlee and Cory Walts of Philadelphia, Shane McCarty of Kingwood, Skyler and Mitch Levine of Tacoma Park, MD, Dylan Sharp of Alexandria, VA, Alex Halbritter and Aaron Ojalvo of Oakland, CA, and Darby Sharp of Alexandria, VA; one great-grandchild, Davis Walts of Philadelphia.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, William Whetsell; two sisters, Susan Wilson and Jean Gerasimovich.
Friends will be received at the Rotruck-Lobb Kingwood Chapel, 295 South Price Street; on Wednesday, October 28, 2020, from 2-8pm; on Thursday, October 29, 2020, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with Reverend Joe Lamm officiating. Interment will be in the Maplewood Cemetery.
The family requests that any memorial donations be made in Bud’s memory to the Church Choir at the Wesley United Methodist Church, 107 West High Street, Kingwood, WV 26537.
Social distancing and masks are REQUIRED.
Personal condolences may be offered to the family online at www.rotruck-lobb.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles "Bud" Richard Whetsell, please visit our floral store.
Wesley United Methodist Church
c/o Church Choir, 107 West High Street, Kingwood WV 26537


Saint Anne's R.C. Church
88 Second Ave, Brentwood NY 11717
Telephone: 631-273-8113 • Fax: 631-436-7914
Parish Website: www.stannebrentwood.org
Monday - Friday: 12:00 Noon and 5:00 PM* (English)
Wednesday: 7:30 PM (French Creole)
Thursday: 7:00 PM (Spanish)
Saturday Morning Daily Mass: 9:00 AM (English)
Saturday: 5:00 PM (English), 7:00 PM (Spanish)
Sunday: 7:30 AM (English), 9:00 AM (Spanish), 11:00 AM (English), 12:30 PM (French Creole), 3:00 PM (Spanish), 5:00 PM (English), 6:00 PM (Spanish)
Daily: Monday – Friday 4:30 PM*
Saturdays: 4:00 - 4:45 PM
* new time as of 10/19/20
Donate to St. Anne's Parish Online
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Watch Live from Our Facebook Page & YouTube Channel All Weekend Masses
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Watch the video message:
(La versión en español sigue al inglés)
3/26/23 - Jesus Raises Lazarus - Cycle A
This Fifth Sunday of Lent Jesus hears that his friend Lazarus is very sick, and when he returns to see Lazarus he has been dead for four days. His sisters Mary and Martha are very sad and Martha asks him why didn’t he come sooner? He could have healed Lazarus. Jesus said to Martha your brother will rise again. Yes, on the last day she replies. Do you believe that people who believe in me die, but that I give them life forever? She replies that he is God’s son. Jesus asks where he was buried and when he sees the tomb he weeps with the others. Jesus asks that the stone on the tomb be moved. He prays and commands Lazarus to come out from the tomb. He raises Lazarus from the dead. News of Jesus’ raising Lazarus travels fast. Many people come to believe in him, but many others are questioning his miracles and actions.
When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, he shows us his power over death. We believe that by Jesus’ death and Resurrection, he conquered death and won eternal life for us. Our faith calls us to be like Martha and Mary, and believe that Jesus is the Resurrection and eternal life.
As a family watch video in its entirety and then ask each other these questions.
Why do you think Jesus wept? When someone loses a loved one, how can you comfort them in their sorrow? Do you ever think of Jesus weeping with you when you are sad?
Family Prayer: Jesus you are the Resurrection and the life. Help us to live a life of compassion and trust. Amen.
Read more: Family Faith Formation (Religious Education) / Formación de Fe en Familia (Educación Religiosa)
Below is a video of the story of Jesus. Click the link for your language
Visit the Faith Formation page
March 26, 2023- 5th Sunday of Lent
Dear Sisters and Brothers,
Lent seems to be long for forty days, but it passes very fast when we stay busy with daily preparation for Jesus Resurrection. Next week we will celebrate Palm Sunday, and the following weekend is Easter. Our Lenten preparations and efforts to be transformed by practice of extra prayer, fasting and alms giving, hopefully brought us closer to the Lord.
Today we have the Gospel of Lazarus being allowed to die, and then being raised from the dead back to life. And interestingly enough, Jesus calls Lazarus dying: “being asleep”, and Jesus promises to awaken him. Is Jesus mocking the death? Is he comparing the death to a sleep? Is it a parable?
3/26/23 - QUINTO DOMINGO DE CUARESMA
Queridas Hermanas y Hermanos,
La Cuaresma parece larga por cuarenta días, pero pasa muy rápido cuando nos mantenemos ocupados con la preparación diaria para la Resurrección de Jesus. La semana que viene celebraremos el Domingo de Ramos, y el siguiente fin de semana es Semana Santa. Nuestras preparaciones para la Cuaresma y los esfuerzos para ser transformados mediante la práctica de oración extra, ayuno y limosnas, esperamos que nos hayan acercado más al Señor.
Hoy tenemos el Evangelio de que a Lázaro se le permitió morir y luego resucito de entre los muertos a la vida. Y curiosamente, Jesus llama a Lázaro moribundo: “estar dormido”, y Jesus promete despertarlo. ¿Jesus se está burlando de la muerte? ¿Está comparando la muerte con un sueño? ¿Es una parábola?
Bishop's Office/Chancery Information
Catholic Schools Week letter
Below, please find a letter from Bishop Barres (English and Spanish) regarding the celebration of Catholic Schools Week.
ENGLISH: Catholic Schools Week letter
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
READ: Most Reverend John O. Barres, Bishop, Diocese of Rockville Centre
God in the streets of Brentwood:
St Anne's Church has a New Tabernacle.
...or click on the links below to read the letters from the Diocese of Rockville Centre
Video links to this important announcement from Bishop Barres:
English Version: https://vimeo.com/539770359/666db7c84d
Spanish Version: https://vimeo.com/539770598/4a8025fe89
Background Screening Update
The Office for the Protection of Children and Young People:
The Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (The Charter) promulgated by the Bishops of the United States in 2002 outlines specific practices and guidelines providing standards of safety in parishes and dioceses throughout the United States. As directed in The Charter, the Diocese of Rockville Centre requires all employees, clergy, and volunteers to complete three requirements within thirty days of employment or volunteering:
- Attend Protecting God’s Children Program (Virtus)
- Sign the Codes of Conduct;
- Complete a background screen application. The Diocese requires all those who remain in active ministry be rescreened at 5 yr. intervals. volunteers/employees.
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SMARTPHONE USERS BEWARE OF MALWARE TARGETING MOBILE DEVICES
UNITED NATIONS FUND BENEFICIARY LETTER
“YOU HAVE BEEN SELECTED” SCAMS
DIVERSION SCAM TO COMMIT BURGLARY/THEFT
IMPORTANCE OF PASSWORD SECURITY EFFORTS
The 'Equality Act' discriminates against people of faith and threatens unborn life.Tell Congress you oppose it!
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Some say there should be a theology on women. The zeitgeist says it’s time to develop a robust one. Should its starting point be the Son of God? No. Mary? No. Sophia? Yes. And here’s why.
The Father did Creation. But it is Sophia who sets up the relationships once Creation is done. Who is she? She is that part of the Father that has to do with his wisdom. The Old Testament was translated into Greek many years before Christ. Wisdom in Greek is the word Sophia, a female noun. She is described in Proverbs 8. Below is what she does.
She sets up our relationships—the relationship we have with ourselves, our family and friends, the stranger, and the natural world. Sophia, also called Woman Wisdom, is the glue that holds the moral order together, an order that is highly interconnected, a spider web of personal relationships where each creature affects every other, positively or negatively. Woman Wisdom becomes a “dynamic, relational reality within creation that is personified.”  Relatedness is the fundamental character of creation with Woman Wisdom as the “relational infrastructure” of creation. In other words, there is something basic about the very structure of creation that can be properly understood in relational terms only, and for us humans, only in personal terms. Through Woman Wisdom, all creatures are related to every other creature for the benefit of all. Our efforts to understand the variety of relationships that God has built into his created order will more closely attune us to his desires for us and our world.
Surprisingly, disorder can play a positive role in a world built around relationships. “Moreover, disorderly elements are inherent in wisdom (as with persons); such disorder is essential for creativity, growth, and the emergence of genuine novelty. As such, elements of disorder are necessary for wisdom’s ways to be truly benevolent.”  Disorder coupled with the dynamic character of Woman Wisdom as a dynamic, relational reality, means that wisdom for us is a process of always learning more. We need to be on the lookout where wisdom might be found; where it will show up next.
Woman Wisdom delights in us and our world (v. 31). “Wisdom does not set absolute standards or norms; Wisdom does not fix life in place … she is always ready to take new experience into account, recognizing that God may be about new things for new times and places.”  For the most part, these experiences come from us. Through our unbound free will, unbound reason, unbound power, and unbound service to others, we can modify old relationships or design new ones and propose them to Woman Wisdom for her acceptance. It is our initiative which brings about this dynamic quality of Woman Wisdom as God’s ordering power. Disorder, as understood here, is a positive force that becomes the catchword under which Woman Wisdom changes her inventory of proper relationships.
In summary, the starting point for a theology on women is the Father, or more accurately, that part of the Father which has to do with his wisdom. That part of the Father is female. Her name is Sophia.
 Terence E. Fretheim, God and World in the Old Testament: A Relational Theology of Creation (Nashville, TN: Abington Press, 2005), 207.
 Ibid., 209.
 Ibid., 209.
 Ibid., 209-210.
 Ibid., 218.
The above is an extract from the chapter “The Personification Sophia” in my book The Prodigal Son Revisited: Exit and Return of Angels, Humans, and the Trinity.


I was born in Michigan and grew up in southern California and Wisconsin. Most of my young life was spent in Fond du Lac, WI. I attended Martin Luther College in Minnesota for a pre-seminary program with a focus on the biblical languages of Greek and Hebrew. After I graduated in 2010, I studied abroad in Leipzig, Germany, at Lutheran Theological Seminary. Then I attended graduate school at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary in suburban Milwaukee and completed a one-year internship as a vicar/assistant pastor in Verona, WI, on the west side of Madison. During that year, we started a new mission church. In 2015 I graduated with a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree and began the ministry here in Ann Arbor. I am currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry (D.Min.) degree from Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia.
In 2014 I met my future wife, Megan, at a conference. We were engaged on Coronado in San Diego and married in California in June 2016. We have two little daughters, Charlotte and Clara. In my free time, I enjoy spending time in Ann Arbor's downtown restaurant district, at local coffee shops, at classical musical concerts at Hill Auditorium, at one of Ann Arbor's 100+ parks with my daughters, or out on the golf course.
I love learning more about Jesus, sharing him in deeper and more relevant ways, and finding out what the Lord has planned for us at Redeemer!


Web site design, Development, Online Content Management System based on OS Administrative Platform (html, PHP, mySQL)
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St Andrew Church has catered to the spiritual, physical and social needs of a diverse Orthodox community in the Chicago metropolitan area since 1926. The church also serves inter-Christian families and other Orthodox doctrines (e.g. Ethiopian, Serbian, Bulgarian).
The leaders of this Church were seeking new ways to reach and communicate with its followers and hired us to develop a web site that would be eye pleasing and effectively convey its message over the Internet, a new and unfamiliar medium for this institution.
We innovatively designed a database driven website that reflects the church's spirit. To make updates and site expansion easily accomplishable, we implemented a highly effective and user-friendly content management system. Our client was delighted with the result, remarking that the site's excellent appearance and structure makes it a great communication tool, allowing the church to reach the not so tech-savvy customers, too.


Grace Church Guildford is a church community of baptised believers joined together in membership.
We believe belonging to a local church through membership is a good thing. Twice a year we run a course in which we explore the Biblical pattern of membership, and for people to get to know more about Grace Church Guildford and how to join.
The next classes will be running for 3 weeks from Thursday 4th March, 8-9pm via Zoom. Please contact the church office for more information and the zoom details.


Hiding (feat. Lil Seyi)
Hailing from Laurel, Maryland but born to Nigerian parents, Omolola has always had a love for songwriting and music, from singing in church since she was a child, to writing her first song back in middle school. From the support of friends and family, and joining the collective Supa, she is able to share music that can be both a blessing and a soundtrack to life. She released her first two singles “Under the Sun” and “Awkward Length” and gained recognition after being featured on Spotify’s fresh finds playlists. She hopes to continue releasing music that resonates with people worldwide.
“Hiding” details the struggle that comes from vulnerability, even to God. Inspired by the story of Jonah in the Bible, Omolola and Lil Seyi describe the resistance to open up and the desire to hide, even to the depths of the ocean. However, Hiding then shows that no matter how far we go and how hard we try, we can’t hide ourselves from God because He always meets us where we’re at.


Once a quarter we recognize the clients of our Adult Residential Care (ARC) and Chaney Allen (Women's) Residential Programs that have completed the work required to become graduates of The Crossroads Center. On December 10, 2019 we recognized 12 graduates.
The client participant graduation celebration consisted of readings from our graduates and current residents, selections from our Recovery Choir, a time of reflection and story telling and an inspiring message from our Chief Executive Officer, Jamahal C. Boyd, Sr. Graduates received a certificate of completion and served as an encouragement for our current residents who are on their journey to become graduates themselves.
One of the most powerful and moving parts of the graduation celebration is when graduates and current residents share their stories of healing, hope, and wholeness. Here is a powerful excerpt from a reading one of our graduates permitted us to share:
"Abusing heroin will beat you down to a beastly level. It is arguably the lowest form of humanity, literally walking dead, absent a soul, degrading any moral compass one might have. There is no doubt in my mind that I am here today for reasons, my purpose is a gift from my Heavenly Father, my creator gets ALL the GLORY. I had to endure so much. I know today it was and will always be the polish to my testimony. I am living breathing glory to my all-merciful, all-gracious, forever-forgiving, first and last Father. Ms.George I am so much more than I have ever been. Up is the only direction I have. There is and will be bumps and bruises along the way of course. I welcome them today, cause what doesn't kill me makes me stronger. Today I open my eyes and thank my God for everything the day will bring because I know it belongs to me. Today I praise my Heavenly Father for the good the bad and the ugly. Today I speak my existence into reality I say out loud NEVER STAGNANT NEVER AGAIN. The words "I am" are very important words they will be your elevation or they will be your detriment. Your choices will dictate your outcome. Today my choice is to get busy living or get busy dying, for me there is no in the middle, there is no more getting cool, there is no more partying, for me one more means death. I will leave you all with this, my last time using was horrifying, it was all miserable, it was desperation, it was self-mutilation, it was all evil, so far from God, so far from blessed, so far from loved, so far from home, so far gone, so close to death. Today my choice is very simple live or die. Change I must or die I will...."
It is such a privilege for The Crossroads Center to partner on this journey with these amazing women and men who have worked so hard to turn their lives around. Graduation is one of those special moments when you get to see that what we do matters!


Easter in Corfu
Unique and cannot be compared to anything else in Greece. There is plenty of tradition to pleasantly surprise you in every corner of the city. One of the most characteristic customs is the concerts of opera and classical music, as well as ecclesiastical singing choirs with influences from Crete that date back to the 1700s. There is a range of events to keep you busy and satisfied.
There are specific events that take place every year. The first Resurrection takes place at 11 am on Holy Saturdays and is accompanied by joyful pealing church bells and sounds of marching bands. In the Old Town, there is a tradition of throwing clay pots from windows and balconies to crash on the streets. There are two possible explanations of this tradition; it either derives from the Venetians who were throwing old belongings on New Years Day so that the New Year would replace them, or it has pagan origins. According to Ancient Greek mythology, the tradition of smashing items aimed to wake up Persephone, the goddess of spring, to accelerate the coming of the season.
The same day at night, you can attend the Catholic Mass of the Resurrection in Duomo, or the Orthodox Resurrection Service at the Upper Square in the Old Town. Thousands of Christian believers holding lit candles flood the streets waiting for the Resurrection of Christ which is celebrated with lots of fireworks and drum beats.
Get all the information you need


Serving Families in Crisis: Understanding What Is Needed in Light of the ‘One Thing Needed’
This article first appeared in Issues on Lutheran Education, a resource provided by the Office of Graduate Studies and Continuing Education for Martin Luther College, New Ulm MN.
By Dr. Joshua Mears, Christian Family Solutions
A child suddenly loses a parent. A teen begins acting out after years of abuse. A natural disaster destroys a family home. Chronic illness. Suicide. Divorce. Addiction. All of these situations shake individuals to the core and threaten to destroy the foundational units of society – our families.
Those of us in the clinical counseling field seek to help and heal individuals and families in crisis by applying our knowledge of the theoretical frameworks of crises, assessing needs, and intervening with appropriate treatment. Our knowledge and training in social and behavioral sciences is essential; yet, as Christians in a counseling vocation, we rely steadfastly on Christ and his work in restoring souls during times of crisis and hardship. True healing can happen when evidence-based clinical treatment and the foundational truths of Scripture are fully integrated.
As such, when it comes to ministering to families in crisis, we see the partnership between clinically trained Christian counselors and called workers essentially linked. Called workers who become aware of the theoretical frameworks and resources can enable families to deal with crises more adequately. In addition, there are resiliency factors that enable some families to cope with crises better than other families. YOU as a called worker are equipped for the important work of supporting those resiliency factors, regardless of whether or not you ever counsel a family in crisis.
Called workers often have the distinct opportunity to minister to families in their times of greatest need. I want to encourage and embolden you, “and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25).
First, let’s consider the types of crises families face and the opportunities they present. In doing so, we can see the inextricable linkages I describe between ministry and evidence-based treatment.
These include natural disasters, house fires, violent crime, or other significant calamites that cause grief and loss. In these situations, it is natural human tendency to ask “why.” The confusion around these events often leads the sufferer to explore an existential understanding of authority and power in this world.
Physical and mental illness:
Nearly half of adult Americans will at some point be diagnosed and treated for a major mental health condition. A family may also be impacted by chronic health related conditions that inhibit the overall ability of the family to function well. Being able to minister and support this family, knowing when to suggest other intervention, is critical and can prevent further escalation of the crises.
Whether chemical addictions or behavioral addictions, the consequences are overwhelming and extremely destructive for individuals and families. A treatment approach that focuses on moral deficiency might apply too much Law; a treatment approach on a medical model, while admirably grace-centered, could apply too much Gospel. The Christian (particularly Confessional Lutheran) worldview of our dual nature as described in Romans 7-8 equips us with a unique view of the addict, as well as a unique approach to support and treatment.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is the term used to describe all types of abuse, neglect, and other potentially traumatic experiences that occur to people under age 18. The secular world often suppresses the Christian community’s attempts to help people who are suffering from the impact of a sinful world: Self-determination strategies are often recommended for health and well-being. It is extremely important that Christians are able to articulate and defend the faith even if the societal and cultural view opposes a Christ-centered view of health and well-being.
Nearly half of the children born into marriages will go through a divorce prior to age 18. This is happening to approximately one million children every year, each one beginning an emotional journey as victims of a devastating process. There are many misguided reasons why individuals or churches choose not to offer support: privacy is one reason. Another is that religious views speak against divorce, and therefore we should not show grace and support to a divorced family unit. The result is a family in distress left to be counseled by the secular world.
Gaining a theoretical understanding of how to interact with and comfort a family in crisis is extremely important because it can guide the interventions when emotions are running high. One of the most important facets of ministering to a family in crisis is to help them make sense of what they are going through. The primary theoretical frameworks can do just that – articulate what is making the stress occur and how that stress is making the individuals within the family resort to maladaptive coping patterns. As a called worker, you may be the person who first sees the family’s state of confusion and guides them to appropriate intervention.
In addition, Christians have the wonderful opportunity to integrate clinical science and interventions with Christ-centered ministry. We know that Christ is the Wonderful Counselor who has cured all suffering or crises, and Scripture affirms this: “I lift up my eye to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1-2). The best science and evidence-based practice for assisting families in crisis must always rely on Christ and his work in restoring souls during times of crisis and hardship.
Having a firm foundation in Christ-centered methods of healing may mean that we have to challenge people’s thoughts and interpretations about crises/tragedies. One of the most important foundational issues for some people when dealing with stress is why God allows them to go through these types of situations. Many well-meaning Christians develop certain catch phrases such as “God has a plan” or “He never allows you to go through more than you can handle” in order to grapple with this concept. Many times, these statements and cognitive interpretations of God’s providence can be detrimental to the development of realistic and positive adjustment to crises.
It is important to explore the issue of “why” with the family you are ministering to. Be empathic and patient as someone expresses their frustration and sadness. Lamenting to God is one of the most important tools that we have in these scenarios. We must learn to cry out to God for mercy when we feel that his promises for safety, blessings, and comfort are hollow.
In my work with families and in helping many get through life crises, the single most important predictive variable for the likelihood of positive outcomes is the daily ritual of family devotions. The daily gathering around God’s Word is helpful as the Holy Spirit joins with the members of the family unit around the Family Altar. It is key to building resilience.
I have provided an overview of the many crises that impact families today, and I’ve encouraged you familiarize yourself with the theoretical frameworks for diagnoses and intervention. Having appreciation for what we do on the clinical side helps you understand when and what type of clinical intervention may be needed. I hope you also can appreciate how important it is to integrate crisis treatment with our foundation and hope in Christ. As a called worker, know how important your work is, both in the midst of crisis and in helping families develop habitual time in God’s Word as a resilience measure. We in the clinical sector see our partnership with you as essential ministry to souls.
Joshua T. Mears, PSYD, LP, BC-TMH is Minnesota Clinical Director for Christian Family Solutions. Dr. Mears specializes in psychological assessments, child and adolescent behavioral disorders/family conflict, as well as chemical abuse issues.
Price, C.A., Bush, K.R., & Price, S.J. (2017), Families and Change: Coping with Stressful Events and Transitions (5th ed.). London: Sage
Barna Group (2019), “What Makes a Spiritually Vibrant Household?” https://www.barna.com/research/spiritually-vibrant-household/


John Calvin, commenting on Genesis 21:7
"And she added, "Who would have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age."
Genesis 21:7 NIV
"If God Almighty came to you and said, "I myself have designed a special food that will strengthen your baby's body and develop his brain, which will comfort him and cheer his heart, and lay the foundation for his lifetime health and well-being. I have given this food into your keeping; I have placed it in your body; it is my loving provision for your child" - who would reply, "No thanks, no divine gifts, I'd rather give him a can of Similac"?"
Juli Loesch Wiley
Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you even at my mother's breast. From birth I was cast upon you; from my mother's womb you have been my God. Do not be far from me.
Psalm 22:9-11 NIV
"For you will nurse and be satisfied at her comforting breasts; you will drink deeply and delight in her overflowing abundance." For this is what the LORD says: "I will extend peace to her like a river, and the wealth of nations like a flooding stream; you will nurse and be carried on her arm and dandled on her knees. As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you; and you will be comforted over Jerusalem."
Isaiah 66:11-13 NIV
Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.
Isaiah 49:15,16 NIV
Want more breastfeeding related scriptures? Breastfeeding and the Bible.
Mother's milk, time-tested for millions of years, is the best nutrient for babies because it is nature's perfect food.
Robert S. Mendelsohn


Join us on Christmas Day with a variety of programming to keep you entertained for the day.
It all starts from 7am with the following lineup.
7-8am – Songs of Praise with Ron Jessop
8-9am – Worship on the Wireless with Ron Jessop
9-11am – Christmas Morning with Peter Wells
11am-2pm -Christmas Lunch with George Krupinski
2-4pm – Christmas Afternoon with Margaret Cockburn
4-6pm – Chrissie Cruisin’ with Ashley O’Halloran
6-8pm – Christmas Evenin’ with George Moutsos
8pm – Overnight Music Mix
Everyone at 96.5 Inner FM wish you a safe and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.


It was a cold, blustery, January day in New England, yet our spirits were high as we stripped wallpaper and painted walls to freshen up our kids newly purchased first home. It was just perfect for their growing family; complete with a room dressed in pink for my 2 year old granddaughter, plus a nursery for the little one on the way.
Though exhausted from the tasks at hand, we were driven with anticipation and excitement
of the upcoming moving day that weekend. In the midst of the day there would be an OB appointment – seemingly just a regularly scheduled appointment that gave none of us any reason for pause. However, within a few hours our hearts and minds would be in upheaval at the report from that appointment there was cause for concern for the wee babe – my second grandchild – who my daughter- in-love was carrying.
The next few days were a blur filled with specialist appointments and waiting for test results that left our stomachs in knots, all while moving our children into their long awaited goal of their first home. When Monday morning dawned we received the news; test results revealed the baby had full Trisomy 13.
Lori Peterson, pictured holding her grand-daughter, BNA Baby Erica Joy.
As a Mimi and a Mom, both roles I deeply cherish, I can only describe the feeling I had as anguish. Anguish for my granddaughter, who already had a spot in my heart and I loved dearly, though only 12 weeks in the womb. Anguish, likewise, for my children, in seeing their hearts torn at the relayed news, and me not being able to fix it – after all, as a mom, this was what I longed to do!
My mind was filled with prayers and pleading to God on behalf of my granddaughter and my children – I held nothing back – asking for grace, mercy, and yes, even miraculous healing. I desperately wanted to know how to love and support my kids best. They in turn loved their baby girl whose long term future, they were told, was very grim.
I, nor anyone I knew well, had ever heard of Trisomy 13 until this point. For the next several nights – into the wee hours – I researched, Googled, and prayed for God to give insight and lead me to resources and help as I, and the rest of our family, journeyed alongside our children. Through this process God lead me to find the Be Not Afraid website.
There was one seemingly big problem, however. Be Not Afraid was in the south and I and my children lived in New England, which are many miles apart. It seemed like a long shot in getting help from that far away, but I was desperate after looking for hours, finding nothing even close to resembling it near me. I filled out their contact page and within hours had received a reply which asked if we could connect by phone. Within a day or two I was on the phone with a Peer Minister.
I remember entering the conversation with an overwhelming sense of fear, hopelessness, and complete inadequacy. By the time the conversation ended, though still feeling very inadequate, I likewise felt empowered. I would now be able to help guide my children, along with the rest of our family, along this path God had chosen for us because…
1. I believe God is in control of all things and is always with us, and…
2. We now had a support network (through BNA) committed to walk by our side as a resource, guide, and prayer warrior, albeit from afar. Words do not sufficiently convey the gratitude I have for BNA.
The next several months were long and hard as my kids faced many appointments, with little news of encouragement and hope. Each step of the way my children were amazingly courageous as they walked in their pain. Through all of it, broken as we were at the realities given by the medical community, we embraced our sweet girl, who her parents named, Erica Joy, after my son, her daddy, Eric. Our BNA peer minister relayed to me that she had once heard the definition of “Joy” said to be, “the most infallible sign of the presence of God.” I loved, clung to, and tucked this away forever for this sweet child, our little Erica Joy, who at 37 weeks, went to the arms of God.
Never have I witnessed or experienced such pain as that day. Her soul, we knew, had already passed into heaven when her body was brought into this world. Still we met her, loved on her, sang to her, and thanked God for her, all the while clinging to and looking to that day when we will one day be reunited forever in Eternity.
We celebrated Erica’s short and significant life with a private family burial. The following day my husband, Senior Pastor of our church, presided over a beautiful memorial service that about 180 people attended. Following, we went outside where we let pink balloons – our Erica Joy balloons - float up to heaven.
Erica Joy is loved and missed every day! Her big sister, Madelyn Rose, often reminds us “Baby Erica is with God,” when a song, word, or conversation about heaven or God is spoken. You see, Erica’s short little life impacted and changed not only me, her Mimi, but our entire family forever.
As the Mimi, I would like to say it changed me for the good, as I know God’s desire is to use all of our life – not just the joys, but also the sorrows - for His purposes. In saying this, I hope that some of what I learned from my granddaughter’s life can help others who may find themselves on a similar journey. Offered below are my suggestions for those who have a grandchild prenatally diagnosed with a lethal or life-limiting disability.
1. Become informed
For me, this meant doing research and providing my children with materials that could help them understand, process, and move forward through the pregnancy and birth. BNA gave me many resources to draw from – books, other websites, etc., that I was able to either guide my children through or pass on to them. The books I gave them to read, I read myself, so I could understand, prompt discussion, or listen intelligently as they processed.
2. Be their biggest advocate
Affirm them often in the wonderful ways they love their unborn child. I did this verbally, and in written form – text, email’s, and cards I gave to them. Solicit prayer for them. Our church body and dear friends from near and far rallied for our children and family on their knees. I am confident God carried us because of these prayers.
3. Be a good listener
Though very imperfectly, I tried to listen to not only the spoken words, but the unspoken words that were being harbored in my children’s hearts. At times I would try to prompt them to share these- letting out their fears, tears and sorrows for release. Sometimes this was appreciated, and other times it was apparent it was just too hard and the best thing I could do was to just give a hug and go to prayer on their behalf – asking God to meet them in their struggles.
4. Be willing to do the hard stuff
As time went on my husband and I were asked to do other tasks by my children. These included keeping up their Caringbridge site (a super helpful tool to communicate to the masses, so repetitive conversations don’t need to happen), securing a photographer to come take pictures at Erica’s delivery, as well as making all the impending funeral arrangements – a task that was much too daunting for them to undertake given all they had on the minds, hearts, and plates.
5. Help keep the child’s memory alive
My home is full of photos of my grandchildren, including Erica. It is a constant reminder to others of the important place she has in my life. I also had a hardbound photo book made for myself and other family members. Talk frequently about the beloved child. In our family we talk about Erica all the time! We haven’t forgotten her and never will. Visit the grave if you are able. I find myself at Erica’s grave almost weekly.
6. Remember significant days and dates
These include anniversary dates and holidays. I continue to note monthly of the date of Erica Joy’s passing. At Christmas my husband and I gave monies in Erica’s memory to an organization that cares for orphaned, sick children. We presented to Erica’s parents a pretty packaged box that held a card telling them this, along with their other gifts.
7. Be a grace giver
Do this for others as there will undoubtedly be things said that are insensitive and just plain unhelpful. People generally do not intend to say hurtful things, but when faced with an uncomfortable situation, rather than just giving a hug or offering prayer, they insert their whole foot in their mouth. I found online a great list of “dos” and “don’ts” to say to grieving parents. I freely handed these out to people who would comment, “I just don’t know what to say.”
Likewise, give grace to yourself. I realized early on, my inadequacies in being able to provide “perfect” care for my children as I walked alongside them. Find support for yourself – a safe place to cry, to be prayed for, and to be a lifeline for you! This may be found in a spouse, trusted friend, counselor, pastor or a combination of them.
8. Be Present – during and after
I have already suggested many ways to be present during the pregnancy and impending birth, yet it is vitally as important to be present after you have said goodbye. Everyone grieves differently but everyone needs to be allowed to grieve. For my family, we found comfort in just being together. We all knew what each other was feeling and didn’t need to explain anything. Once my son returned to work, my girls and I rallied together daily – just being together, which sometimes included outings to keep our minds from “thinking” too much. Our church showed their presence by bringing meals to my children (and sometimes the whole family) for three continuous weeks. Not only did this provide nourishment, it gave others who cared a tangible way to express love.
I sit here now, nearly one year to the day from saying goodbye to my beautiful
Pink balloons were released at Baby Eric Joy's memorial service.
granddaughter. I ponder her middle name – JOY. I am acutely aware that my heart is forever seared by this sweet child. I likewise am aware that growth has occurred in my life from this pain. I am able to give praise to God for all of it, for I know that one does not erase the other. I think this is the JOY – woven in and amidst the sorrow as only God Almighty can do. I look at life differently and try to cherish every minute of it. Heaven seems closer. I take fewer things for granted. My marriage is stronger for we tethered ourselves to one another in the storm, and anchored that tether to God. Our family is bonded tighter because we loved, stood with, and supported one another through it all. Our church learned tangible lessons about putting into action real-life caring. God has opened new doors and given me opportunities to use what I learned and to walk alongside others who are going through similar experiences. I am forever changed because of Erica Joy and I am forever grateful to God for her life.
By Lori Peterson (Grandmother to BNA Baby Erica Joy)


|상품명||Bible Truths 3 Student Worktext (4ED)|
|배송비||2,500원 (50,000원 이상 구매 시 무료)|
할인가가 적용된 최종 결제예정금액은 주문 시 확인할 수 있습니다.
The Bible Truths 3 Student Worktext is designed to introduce elementary students to higher thinking skills and encourage Christlikeness through the practical application of the Bible.
As they progress thematically through the Old and New Testaments, elementary students will enjoy the colorful illustrations, straightforward lessons, and learning projects that will help them grow in their knowledge of God and His Word. Each Bible lesson reinforces student comprehension with learning activities that improve reading comprehension and strengthen study skills.


3 edition of Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association found in the catalog.
Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association
|Series||Early American imprints -- no. 3738|
|The Physical Object|
|Number of Pages||11|
Jan 11, · Governor’s Letter Book, Edward B. Dudley Philadelphia Baptist Church, Minutes Docket of Slaves Indicted for Capital Crimes Minutes of the Georgia Baptist Association, – Book/Printed Material The minutes and sermon of the Second Presbyterian and Congregational Convention, held in the Central Presbyterian Church, Lombard Street, Philadelphia, on . Reason to Be: The African Baptist Association as a Response to Systemic Racism of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, from A.D. to A.D. (; rpt. Atlas, Mich.:Baptist Book Trust, ), p. 9 Nova Scotia Association Minutes 10 Systemic racism? White .
Mathematics for the million.
use of computerized mapping in crime control and prevention programs
Math for Daily Decisions (Skills for Success)
Last Summer of Mata Hari
International economic institutions
descriptive analysis of the Gary-Banneker performance contracted curriculum center
The Green Man Tree Oracle
Supporting literacy across the sunshine state
Records relating to North American railroads
note on the physical characters of the prehistoric Kansu race
only three discipline strategies you will ever need
A Brief Account of the Churches Holding Believer's Baptism in Pennsylvania and the Jerseys Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association There are 19 histories. Baptist History Homepage [p.
9] An Association Book Containing A Brief Account of the Beginning and Progress of the Churches Holding and Practicing Adult Baptism, and Commonly Called Baptists, in Pennsylvania and the Jersies; Now Annually Associating at Philadelphia: with the Time when, and the Persons by whom Each Church was Settled, and who were the Ministers that Labored among them in.
Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association,ed. Gillette published originally Philadelphia: American Baptist Publication Society, New printing, Springfield, MO: Particular Baptist Press, Designated as a Tricentennial Edition edited by Terry Wolever.
For those reasons--its singular importance in the eighteenth-century and its lasting influence on Baptist life in America--the Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association,edited by A. Gillette and published in by the American Baptist Publication Society, is a classic of Baptist history in America.
Fortunately, the Baptist Book Trust. Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association: held by special appointment, at Southampton, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on Tuesday and Wednesday, 29th and 30th of October, A.D.
having been prevented meeting at the time appointed in the city of Philadelphia by a prevailing infectious disorder, with which God in his providence has been pleased to visit that city.
PHILADELPHIA BAPTIST ASSN. Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, Held in Philadelphia, October 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th, The th Annual Meeting of the Philadelphia Baptist Association took place on Saturday, May 4, at Esperanza ( North 5th Street, Philadelphia, PA ) The Rev.
Luis Cortes, founder, president and CEO of Esperanza, served as our host. Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association: From to () by A.D. Gillette Hear about sales, receive special offers & more.
You can unsubscribe at any menards.club: Sep 13, · Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, from A.D. to A.D. being the first one hundred years of its existence by Philadelphia Baptist Association; Gillette, A.
D., Pages: Get this from a library. Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, from A.D. to A.D. being the first one hundred years of its existence. [A D Gillette; Philadelphia Baptist Association.]. He currently teaches and directs the choir at Haitian Evangelical Baptist Church, in Philadelphia.
The Choir supports many Haitian Churches spiritually and financially in New York, Connecticut, Montreal, Lancaster, PA and in Philadelphia for their harvest festivals/5(7).
Get this from a library. Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, held, by appointment, in Philadelphia, October [Philadelphia Baptist Association.]. Minutes of the 9th Annual Session of the Philadelphia Association Old Regular Baptist Church of Jesus Christ Minutes of the 46th Annual Session of the Mud River Old Regular Baptist Association Proceedings of the Seventy-Fourth Annual Session of the Union Association of Old Regular Baptists Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association held by appointment, in Philadelphia, October 4th, 5th, and 6th, Published: () Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, held at Lower Dublin, Philadelphia County, state of Pennsylvania, October 3d, 4th, and 5th, Author of A confession of faith put forth by the elders and brethren of many congregations of Christians (baptized upon profession of their faith) in London and the country, Minutes of the th Anniversary of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, and Minutes of the th Anniversary of 5/5(2).
Minutes Books of First Baptist Church of Philadelphia, A. Gillette, editor, Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association from A.D.to A.D. (Philadelphia: American Baptist Publication Society, ), and William Williams Keen, The Bi-Centennial Celebration of the Founding of the First Baptist Church of the City of Philadelphia (Philadelphia: American Baptist Publication Society.
Minutes, North Carolina Negro Baptist Associations. Other Authors: /Bear Creek Baptist Association /Yadkin-Philadelphia Missionary Baptist Association of North Carolina /Zion Missionary Baptist Association; Similar Items.
African-American Baptist annual reports. Similar Items. Minutes of the Baptist Association, held at Philadelphia, October, Published: () Minutes of the Baptist Association, held at Philadelphia, October 6, Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association, from A.D.
to A.D. being the first one hundred years of its existence / (Philadelphia: American Baptist Publication Society, ), by Philadelphia Baptist Association and A.
Gillette (page images at HathiTrust). Staff The Philadelphia Baptist Association (PBA) is staffed by a dedicated team that is committed to serving and holding in trust the congregations, missions and ministries that make up this region of the American Baptist Churches.
The Old Regular Baptists are a Christian denomination of Old School Baptist [see Black Rock Address] based primarily in the Appalachian region of the United States.
This group at one time was in full fellowship with the Primitive Baptist and Old School Baptist nationwide, due to divisions and changes among some of the Primitive Baptist,they.
Philadelphia Baptist Church, Deville. 1, likes · 5 talking about this · 3, were here. Celebrating over years of ministry, Philadelphia Baptist Church continues to present the relevant, 5/5(54).
PHILADELPHIA BURMESE BAPTIST CHURCH c/o Tasker Street Philadelphia, PA Pastor: Pastor La Seng Dingrin Pastor Saw Thomas PINN MEMORIAL BAPIST CHURCH. (The Philadelphia Association) The accepted view of the time line of Baptist in Kentucky according to Spencer’s History of Kentucky Baptists and Miniutes of the Burning Springs Association is as follows: THE ARMS GIVEN OFF FORMING ASSOCIATIONS THROUGH WHICH THE NEW SALEM ASSOCIATION CAME 1.
Philadelphia Association, organized 2. Please Note: A split occurred in from a result of a split in the Indian Bottom Church (J.T. Whitaker) in This side was known as the W.G.
Combs side of the Indian Bottom Association and dissolved in the year lasting only 5 years. Available in the National Library of Australia collection. Author: Philadelphia Baptist Association; Format: Book, Online; 12 p. National Library of Australia. Login | Register.
Catalogue. Search the catalogue for collection items held by the National Library of Australia Philadelphia Baptist Association.
Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist. History of the Western Union Baptist Association of Ohio /, by Charles D. Swayne and E. Curry (page images at HathiTrust) The monitor of Richland Creek Baptist Association: with biographical sketches of the founders and leaders of that organization /, by John Smith Gilmore and Richland Creek Baptist Association (page images at HathiTrust).
Aug 02, · Each volume is a 6 x 9 Hardback. The set contains - 7, pages Original Publisher: Mathews & Leigh - London Original Pub. Date: The Philadelphia Baptist Association, in its official minutes of October recommended, "that each member church of the Association subscribe for a copy of Dr.
Gill's incomparable Exposition of the Old and New Testaments for the use of their /5(8). Open Library is an initiative of the Internet Archive, a (c)(3) non-profit, building a digital library of Internet sites and other cultural artifacts in digital menards.club projects include the Wayback Machine, menards.club and menards.club Ketoctin Baptist Church, also known as Short Hill Church, is a historic Baptist church located at Round Hill, Loudoun County, menards.club is listed on both the U.S.
National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks RegisterAdded to NRHP: May 22, The official website of the American Baptist Association. The American Baptist A ssociation is a network of churches who have chosen to come together and share resources to further the reach of the gospel.
Their efforts have led to churches sending and supporting missionaries in. Yadkin Baptist Association of Southern Baptist Churches Minutes of the annual session of the Yadkin-Philadelphia Baptist Association and Minutes of the annual session of the Yadkin-Philadelphia Missionary Bapitst Convention Minutes of the annual session of the Little Yadkin River Primitive Baptist Association.
Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association: From to A.D. Gillette. Philadelphia American Baptist Publicatio, J. Newton Brown. Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association: From toBeing the First One Hundred Years of Its Existence.
A Brief instruction in the principles of the Christian religion, agreeable to the confession of faith, put forth by the elders and brethren of many congregations of Christians (baptized upon profession of their faith) in London, and in the country: To which is added, the proofs thereof, out of the Scriptures, in words at length by William Collins (Book).
Baptist History of the Liberty Baptist Association. Madison and Limestone p., Good condition, loose papers, typewritten manuscript Baptist Record book of Philadelphia Baptist Church. Monroe p., Good condition, photocopies Baptist Minutes for Pisgah Baptist Church. Cherokee.
In Baptist: Colonial period were united to form the Philadelphia Baptist Association, and through the association they embarked upon vigorous missionary menards.club the Philadelphia association included churches located in the present states of Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, and West Virginia; and by further multiplication of churches had.
Central to Baptists of the early 18th century, the Bible was paramount to Baptist life as viewed through the Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Association.
Indeed, the imagery of the biblical Zion in the midst of a great spiritual wilderness is the biblical analogy that emerges from Associational Minutes of. Seeking information or Minutes on the Philadelphia Association and their "Council of Elders" held around Kenova, WV in the 's - The Association Minutes show there was a printing of these Minutes.
United Baptist: 1.) Booklets, Pamphlets, Newspapers, Histories of the United Baptist The Regular Baptist Hymn Book - John A. Thompson Minutes of Pacolet (Skull Shoals) Baptist Church microfilm reel (partial reel) P Philadelphia Baptist Church (Pauline, S.C.) Minutes of Philadelphia Baptist Church microfilm reels.
P Ramah Primitive Baptist Church (Wilkinson County, Ga.) Minutes of Ramah Primitive Baptist Church THE PHILADELPHIA CONFESSION OF FAITH, Chapter 1 Of the Holy Scriptures 1.
The Holy Scripture is the only sufficient, certain, and infallible rule of all saving knowledge, faith, and obedience, although the light of nature, and the works of creation and providence do so far manifest the goodness, wisdom, and power of God, as to leave.
Minutes of the New-Jersey Baptist Association, held at Mount-Holly, New-Jersey, September [microform] Dennis Heartt Philadelphia Australian/Harvard Citation New Jersey Baptist Association.History of the Baptist Churches in Ohio (Fund has been started on this project - 20% raised so far) 2.
Ministers of the Philadelphia Baptist Association (Fund started - 20% raised so far) 3. The Works of Benjamin Wallin - Volumes 1, 2 and 3. 4. Many others - some commentaries, etc.
Works out of print waiting for sponsorship to reprint: 1.Sep 25, · NEW Baptist History Collection CD-ROM - version * The Baptist History Collection CD-ROM - Version THE BAPTIST HISTORY COLLECTION CD version (ISBN# ) is now in menards.club may order this CD by clicking menards.club regular retail price for this new CD is $


Sorry I'm late with this recommendation, but (in case you're like me and don't watch the calendar as well as you ought) it's December, and it's also Advent.
So, I want to recommend that you all go out and get a copy of The Christmas Mystery by Jostein Gaarder. It's a wonderful book to read leading up to Christmas - we get to watch as Joachim opens his special Advent Calendar each day, and receives an update on the story of a little girl, a lamb, some angels, wise men, kings, oh, the whole nine yards and more.
It's a fun read with relatively short chapters for each day from December first right down through Christmas Eve. Highly recommended.
To Bethlehem! To Bethlehem!


The summer holidays are now a warm and distant memory for many; the kids are back at school and, with the advent of the John Lewis Christmas Advert, the nation is now collectively bracing itself for Christmas 2014.
For Sheringham, it’s largely business as usual. A handful of businesses close down or operate on a reduced timetable over the winter months, yet this tiny resort on the outstanding North Norfolk Coast remains open and busy throughout the winter months.
The clocks have gone back and it’s dark outside, yet your path through Sheringham will be lit up with the Christmas lights adorning the High Street. These will be officially switched on at 6.30pm on the 5th of December.
The North Norfolk Railway is one of the main attractions in Sheringham and it runs a couple of big ticket events over Christmas and New Year, starting with the Santa Specials.
This service runs between the 29th of November and the 24th December, taking children of all ages on an exciting steam train journey from Sheringham Station to Santa’s Grotto based at Weybourne Station. There will be fun and games during the journey and children will meet Santa Claus himself to collect their Christmas gift. Biscuits and juice will be provided for the younger travelers and the grown ups will be offered a mince pie and a glass of sherry.
From 26th December to the 1st January the service will continue to run as the Mince Pie Special; a great way to enjoy the beautiful winter scenery.
Your visit to Sheringham would not be complete without visiting The Little Theatre. This year the pantomime is Robin Hood; a traditional story with a unique twist. Directed by West End star Killian Donnelly and starring Russel Hicken as the traditional dame, Nanny Polly Ticks, this promises to be great fun!
If you are staying in Sheringham over Christmas you are welcome to join in the celebrations at one of the local churches:
St. Andrew’s Methodist Church, Cromer Road
- Christingle Service on the 7th December at 4pm
- Christmas Tree Festival between the 11th and the 16th December
- Carols around the Trees on the 16th December at 7.30pm
- Carols & Readings at 10.30am & Candlelit Carols at 6.30pm, on the 21st December
- Midnight Communion at 11.30pm on Christmas Eve
- Christmas Praise at 10.00am on Christmas Day
For more details on services at St. Andrews, click here.
St. Peter’s Parish Church, Church Street
- 13th December: Brass Band Concert at 7.30pm
- 20th December: Christingle Service at 4.30pm
- 21st December: Nine Lessons & Carols at 6.30pm
- 24th December: Nativity Family Crib Service & Nativity Play
For more details on services at St. Peters, click here.
Our Lady and St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Cromer Road
- 24th December: Morning Mass of Christmas Eve at 9.00am
- 24th December: Carols at 11.30pm followed by Midnight Mass
- 25th December: Christmas Day Mass at 10.30am
For more details on services at St. Joseph’s, click here.
Lighthouse Community Church, Cromer Road
- 14th December: Christmas All-Age Celebration at 10.15am
- 21st December: Christmas Celebration with drama and carols at 4.00pm
- 25th December: Christmas Day Celebration at 10.15am
For more details on services at the Lighthouse Church, click here.
Salvation Army, Co-Op Street
- 14th December: Carol Concert at 3.30pm
- 21st December: Carol Service at 6.00pm
- 25th December: Christians Awake! at 7.00am around the town with the band
- 25th December: Christmas Day Service at 10.30am
We highly recommend the local pubs, cafes and restaurants, especially after a long coastal walk in the bracing winter breeze. There is nothing better than a warm Norfolk welcome, hot food and a roaring fire to get the circulation going again!
Please click here if you are interested in booking The Prairie for Christmas or New Year – ideal for a large family get together!


About YWAM International
Youth With A Mission is a global movement of Christians from many cultures, age groups and Christian traditions, dedicated to serving Jesus throughout the world.
Also known as YWAM (pronounced “WHY-wham”), we unite in a common purpose to know God and to make Him known.
Back when we began in 1960, our main focus was to help youth get involved in missions.
Today, we still focus on youth and we also include people of all ages. We currently have tens of thousands of staff (called “YWAMers”) from nearly every country, including places like Indonesia, Nepal, Mozambique, and Colombia.
A Family of Ministries
We reach out in 180+ countries through three main areas — Evangelism, Training and Mercy Ministry.
Our ministries cover every sphere of society, including ship-based medical care, performing arts teams, Bible training programs, business coaching, sports ministries, anti-trafficking work, and many more.
YWAM functions as a family of ministries rather than a centralized agency.


Even after almost two years living in Georgia, I’m still the sort of person who can’t walk past a church without popping inside.
While I personally think every church, monastery and convent in Georgia is special in some way, believe me when I tell you you have to prioritise which ones you visit – otherwise the details and stories will be lost on you as one blends into the next.
Having visited most if not all of Tbilisi’s churches, there are, in my opinion, a few that stand out and are absolutely worth going out of your way to see – even if you’re not a church person. Some boast stunning city views, some are built on the grounds of historical monuments, and others are just plain pretty.
Here are 10 of the best churches in Tbilisi that are personal favourites of mine and worth including on your agenda.
Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.
The 10 best churches in Tbilisi worth visiting
Tbilisi is known for its religious pluralism that goes back to the days of the Silk Road. You can find multiple synagogues, a mosque, and even an old Zoroastrian Temple in the Old Town.
For the purposes of this post I am only covering Orthodox, Apostolic and Catholic churches – otherwise the list would be far too long!
Also read: Guide to Christmas in Tbilisi, including Georgian traditions and Orthodox rituals.
1. Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi (Sameba Tbilisi)
The largest church in Georgia and one of the biggest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world, Sameba is hard to miss – no matter where you’re standing, chances are you can spot it’s lustrous gold dome. To truly appreciate the scale of the facade and the building’s monumental footprint, you need to see it up close.
The church is perched on Elia Hill, with a cascading staircase leading to the main door. From the top of the stairs you get a fantastic view of not just the churchyard but also the city. Inside, the bold verticality continues with soaring white columns leading the eye skywards to the central dome. You could spend a good hour inside the building exploring the various chapels, cloisters and crypts.
Sameba was constructed over a decade-long period starting in 1995. This was a tough period for Georgia, thus the church came to symbolise the nation’s revival in the wake of the USSR’s demise.
Located in Avlabari, traditionally an Armenian neighbourhood, Sameba sits where an old Armenian church once stood – it was destroyed during the Soviet era. The attached cemetery survived, and you can still see some of the gravestones out back.
Get there: 20-minute uphill walk from Avlabari Metro Station.
2. Anchiskhati Basilica
At the opposite end of the spectrum, Anchiskhati Basilica is a tiny, modest church tucked away between the river and popular Shavteli Street in the Old Town, close to the Clock Tower and puppet theatre.
You’d be forgiven for walking right past the arched entrance without a second glance. But there is a good reason to pause here: This is Tbilisi’s oldest surviving Orthodox church, with a history that goes back to the 6th Century.
Officially the Anchiskhati Basilica of St. Mary, the stone church is home to the Anchiskhati Choir, one of the country’s leading polyphonic choral groups. Visitors are welcome to drop in for morning mass and listen to liturgical chanting. Incredible acoustics make for a moving experience.
Get there: 10-minute walk from Freedom Square.
3. Metekhi St. Virgin Church
The Virgin Mary Assumption Church of Metekhi is another of my favourite churches in Tbilisi, mainly because of its location. Stradling Metekhi Rise, it appears to hang off the cliff above the Kura river.
There has been a church at this location for as long as Tbilisi has existed. According to some sources, it was King Vakhtang Gorgasali himself (the city’s founder) who commissioned the original structure as his court church in the 5th century. The statue in the courtyard shows Vakhtang on his steed, saluting his city.
When Georgia was part of the Russian Empire, Metekhi was used as a prison. In the Soviet Era, executions took place here at the hands of the NKVD. Today, the church offers tourists one of the best views of Tbilisi. Just across the river, the Old Town’s most magnificent balconies and facades are on full display, the panorama punctuated by another beautiful church, the Armenian St. George Cathedral of Tbilisi, with its distinctive cyan dome.
Get there: 10-minute walk from Abanotubani sulfur baths (via Metekhi Bridge). Note that the gates are locked from around 6pm until 10am.
4. Karmir Avetaran Armenian Church
Speaking of Armenian churches – there are a good many of them in Tbilisi, both functioning and forsaken. The boarded-up Surb Nshan Church in the Old Town has become Insta-famous, but I much prefer visiting a different abandoned church over the river in Avlabari.
Shamkoretsots Astvatsatsin (also known as Karmir Avetaran Church) was the tallest Armenian Apostolic church in the city when it was finished in 1809. After a robbery and a failed restoration, it closed in 1937 – and that’s where the mystery begins.
First, the church was repurposed as a bakery. But apparently the dough refused to rise. It was then used as a gym and a library before eventually housing artists’ studios. In April 1989, the church almost completely collapsed in the days following an earthquake. The cupola and western facade were destroyed, leaving part of the cathedral open and exposed.
You can climb into the belly of the church from a nearby car park. The whole area is scattered with bricks and debris, and a huge crack rises up right through the centre of the ruins. Like so many other buildings in Avlabari, it’s equal parts majestic and melancholy.
Get there: 15-minute walk from Abanotubani sulfur baths (via Metekhi Bridge).
5. Sioni Cathedral
Located in the heart of Tbilisi, Sioni Cathedral of the Dormition features on most walking tour routes through the old town. Before Sameba was consecrated in 2004, this was the seat of the Catholicos-Patriarch of All Georgia.
Fashioned from yellow tuff stone sourced from Bolnisi in Georgia’s southern Kvemo Kartli region, the design is simple, with mostly unadorned facades save for a few bas-relief carvings. The vivid frescoes that adorn the interior are a marvellous contrast. Sioni houses a relic of St. Nino’s Cross and burial sites for half a dozen important clergymen.
Get there: 10-minute walk from Freedom Square.
6. Mamadaviti Church & Mtatsminda Pantheon
It took me several visits plus a full year living in Tbilisi before I finally got around to visiting St. David’s Church – AKA Mamadaviti. Now, I count it among my favourite places in the city.
Pretty as it is, it’s not the church itself that I love, it’s the grounds it sits on. Cut into the side of the cliff halfway up Mtatsminda, Tbilisi’s Holy Mountain, the churchyard is home to the Mtatsminda Pantheon of Writers and Public Figures. A score of prominent artists, writers, dramatics and national heroes are buried here, memorialised with the most fabulous headstones and sculptures you can possibly imagine.
If you’re going to walk up to Mtatsminda, follow the route that leads from Sololaki past the church (see directions here). The Tbilisi Funicular also stops here.
Get there: 25-minute uphill walk from Rustaveli Metro Station.
7. Betlemi Upper Church of the Nativity of the Savior
Similarly located at one of the city’s highest points, the Upper Betlemi Church towers over Old Tbilisi. It’s reached by walking up a historic flight of stone steps known as the Betlemi Street Stairs. On Sunday mornings you’ll find the stairs busy with parishioners.
Erected in the 18th century, the church started life as an Armenian chapel before being transferred to the Orthodox Church in the 1990s. Several relics, including a carved Khachkar stone, were reportedly destroyed or disappeared in the process.
Betlemi Rise stretches out in front of the church and affords amazing views of the city, including Sameba and old Avlabari. It’s something of a community garden, shared by parishioners, local residents and a few dozen friendly cats. Bench seats erected under trellises are the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.
From there, you can continue up a second flight of stairs to reach Narikala Fortress and Mother of Georgia.
Get there: 10-minute uphill walk from Abanotubani sulfur baths.
8. Holy Lord’s Transfiguration Convent & Queen Darejan’s Palace
Also located in Avlabari on the way to Sameba, just a few blocks from Karmir Avetaran, the Holy Lord’s Transfiguration Convent is a working nunnery partially set on the grounds of Queen Darejan’s Palace.
A tiny church was built here in the 1770s by Queen Darejan, wife of King Erekle II, and was one of the few structures to survive a fire that razed the city at the end of the same century.
If you walk up Wine Rise from Metekhi Bridge, you can trace the bottom of the palace and its towering stone walls. At the top, you can stand on the lovely round wooden balcony. I recommend visiting this tiny church on Sunday mornings during mass, when the nuns’ chanting spills out into the garden.
Get there: 15-minute walk from Abanotubani sulfur baths (via Metekhi Bridge). Note that the gates are locked between around 6pm and 10am.
9. St. Peter and Paul Apostles’ Church, one of the few Catholic churches in Tbilisi
Located in Chugureti district, footsteps away from Fabrika, St. Peter and Paul’s is an 1870s Catholic church with a beautiful lemon-coloured baroque facade. A statue of Pope John Paul II in the garden commemorates the October 1999 papal mass that took place here.
This is a great Tbilisi church to visit if you need to be reminded of the contrasts between Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic traditions. Mass is held in Georgian every morning, on Sunday mornings in English, and on Sunday evenings in Latin.
Get there: 10-minute walk from Marjanishvili Metro Station.
10. Tabori Monastery
One more for the view-seekers: Tbilisi has numerous hilltop churches but Tabori Monastery has the best vantage of all, looking directly over the Abanotubani Sulfur Baths, Narikala Fortress and the river, with the Peace Bridge also in view. This is by far my favourite frame of Tbilisi… It brings a tear to my eye every time!
It involves a bit of a hike to get up to Tabori: Starting from Abanotubani, take Bazovi Street and follow the hand-painted blue signs. If in doubt, ask a local: There are lots of people around this residential area. If you don’t want to walk to the top, there is an unmarked viewpoint roughly a third of the way up the hill.
I only recommend visiting at early twilight or during daylight hours – the path is unlit and I have seen syringes in this area before. It’s beautiful at any time of year, but summer sunsets here are something else.
Get there: 30-minute uphill walk from Abanotubani sulfur baths.
Dress code & tips for visiting churches in Tbilisi
Orthodox churches in Tbilisi have a strict dress code that you should abide by when going inside or walking in the yard. Men need to cover their shoulders and knees. Women must do the same, plus cover their hair. Some more conservative churches ask that women wear a long skirt rather than pants, but this is more common in rural areas.
Ninety-nine percent of churches have scarves and apron skirts that you can borrow at the front door. For the 1% that don’t – and just generally for hygiene reasons – I prefer to carry a lightweight cotton scarf in my bag at all times.
Be a responsible traveller and observe the behaviour code – especially if you’re visiting during mass. Do not run, talk loudly or smoke on church grounds. If there is a sign saying ‘no photography’, please respect the rules. If you’re unsure, ask someone before you start taking photos.
All churches in Tbilisi (and across Georgia) are free to visit. You will often see people at the front gate collecting money, but you are not obliged to give them anything (unless you want to).
I personally prefer to put a few coins into the official church donation box, which should be somewhere near the back of the building. Better still, buy a votive candle or something small from the gift shop.
You might also be interested in…
– The ultimate Georgia itinerary: Four detailed & custom designed itineraries
– Places to visit in Georgia: 35+ unique destinations around the country


Come and enjoy a lovely breakfast (just $8 per person) and hear our guest speaker:
Rev John Mason (retired Uniting Church Minister)
John served as a Uniting Church Minister in Dubbo.
He then served in the NSW Legislative Assembly
as the member for Dubbo for nearly twenty years
and as leader of the opposition for four years.
RSVP to the church office on 68854200 by 31 May 2019
If you have dietary restrictions please advise at the time of booking


Two summers ago, late one afternoon I sat on a low stone wall, swinging my legs—one of the advantages of being only 5’2”—and contemplated the expanse of a cathedral town square before me. I was in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. I had flown into Madrid that morning and immediately taken the train west, to Galicia and Santiago, the capital. It was chilly—I could feel a breeze off the Atlantic Ocean—and I realized I had brought clothes for Madrid and not Santiago. I was tired, but not unpleasantly.
I was a pilgrim, one of the first of thousands who would pour in streams through the winding medieval streets of Santiago during the following week. We were arriving from all over the world—later I would share Mass with a fellow middle-aged woman from Brazil—for the Feast of St. James, which is celebrated in Catholic Christendom on July 25. When July 25 falls on a Sunday, the commemoration is a Great Feast Year. And so it was in 2012—and not again until 2020.
Towards evening that first day, the square was almost empty, but I had no inclination to move from my perch. I was enjoying medieval Spanish Latin church music, coming from a source I could not see, but amplified by the ancient paving stones. From the stops and repetitions, I concluded that I was listening to a rehearsal for the festivities ahead.
I am not a Catholic. It seems to me unlikely that the martyred body of James, the brother of Jesus and first leader of the early church in Jerusalem, found its way to Galicia and was buried, to be discovered in the ninth century. But no matter. Santiago de Compostela is a holy place—one of a few I have been privileged to see—sanctified by the faith and works, even the imprints of the steps, from the centuries of believers who have travelled there long before me.
I was on a quest, just as pilgrims to Santiago in Chaucer’s day had been. I was trying to find closure to the extraordinary and largely inexplicable previous few years of my life. I would eventually get that satisfaction, and Santiago was a way-station. A link in the bracelet of end.
Ending. Beginning again.
And so the Great Day of St. James is an appropriate place to launch this new chapter in my blog Nattering On.
Surely, it is time for me to share the few truths I have learned, for family or friends or acquaintances or former readers or whoever might read.
In August, I will turn sixty-eight.
If not now, when?
This is a scary move for me, for reasons that will become clear as I write more.
But back to July, 2012 in Santiago, Spain, where in the unfolding of that evening lies a shard of truth.
I was alone. A middle-aged American woman who spoke no Spanish. It was dusk, and I did not know where I would spend the night.
On the cathedral square, just behind my perch on the parapet, reigns the Hostal dos Reis Catolicos, founded in 1492 by King Ferdinand II and Queen Isabella as a pilgrims’ hospice, since many of the visitors to fifteenth-century Santiago arrived sick and dying. The doors of the Hostal have been open ever since. Today it is the best hotel in Santiago, one of the loveliest in Spain. It had been booked solid years in advance of July, 2012.
Yet somehow I knew that the Hostal would have a room for me. I stood, turned around, walked up the broad steps and through the fifteenth-century arch. The desk clerk could not have been more gracious and welcoming. Of course, he had a room.
And so my spiritual journey turned out to be temporal as well, for during Feast Week I would sit in close proximity to King Juan Carlos, now recently abdicated, but at the time crowing and regnant—I remember thinking that here was a man who had just entertained his mistress. And in contrast, his inward-looking wife, the drawn-faced but forbearing Queen Sofia, with her ladies-in-waiting passing by me on her way to and from her suite at the Hostal dos Reis Catolicos.
I would enjoy the spectacle of Paulo Coelho and his retinue of lovely women at the Hostal. Coelho, the most famous living chronicler of the camino, the pilgrimage road from France to Santiago, was the guest of the King and Queen of Spain for festival week. I do not know Coelho, but he is a fellow believer, and today I am one of the Brazilian writer’s two million+ followers on Twitter.
My sojourn in Santiago encapsulates much of what I will be sharing with you in the next few weeks.
Lately, I have been thinking about how the Lord, other than in Scripture, teaches us about Himself and our relationship to Him. Basic question: who are we? And who is He?
To begin, with the kernel in my Santiago story. Life unfolds simultaneously on two parallel tracks. We have been made creatures of a material world subject to the laws of physics and limitations of biology. Gathered in communities of our making, we daily live and work. Yet we are hardwired to seek He Who Hath Made Us, our Creator who is both immanent within the world and outside it beyond time.
Therefore, all of us—you, me, everyone we know and will never know—are at one and the same time the Mayhill that day in Santiago de Compostela and the innkeeper who took her in. We are seekers—and surely if you are reading this far you are either already curious about God or about to submit yourself to the discipline or on your way and yearning for Him. Some of you have travelled farther with Him than I ever will.
But most of the time we live in the rhythm of our daily chores. There is a deceptive simplicity to rhythm. It is hard to go about our business mindful at all times that a tedious stranger could be the angel in disguise mentioned in Hebrews.
The desk clerk at the Hostal dos Reis Catolicos undoubtedly was tired by nightfall. He had been dealing with entitled, imperious rich people all day. Even as I approached, a gentleman was grumping away from the massive desk. But the receptionist looked at me, looked again. He was calm, but with a flicker in his eye.
“Of course, we have a room for you.”
I will never forget the ripple of expression. It was as if a half-millennium of caring for strangers—more than—since 1492—suddenly coalesced, descended and gathered into one face.
His awareness. That young man. That stranger. I never asked his name, but he is in my thoughts and sometimes my prayers.
I do not know the why and wherefore of that evening. And sometimes mystery is beautiful. (If often not—as you will hear from me in subsequent weeks.) Perhaps there is timelessness in the power of community, as believers join one by one, but linking, hand-to-hand and face-to-face as we live, day by day, year into year, passing the connection on to those who come after us, century after century.
July 25, 2014
Farther and Further:
Camino De Santiago: Medieval Music from Spanish Pilgrimages (available on iTunes)
Paulo Coelho, The Pilgrimage (account of the camino and his spiritual journey)
Coelho, from Pilgrimage: “And when I think about it, I guess it is true that people always arrive at the right moment at the place where someone awaits them.”


1st Sunday of Resurrection
1 Arise, shine; for your light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen on you. 2For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise on you, and his glory shall be seen on you. 3And the Gentiles shall come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your rising. 4Lift up your eyes round about, and see: all they gather themselves together, they come to you: your sons shall come from far, and your daughters shall be nursed at your side. 5Then you shall see, and flow together, and your heart shall fear, and be enlarged; because the abundance of the sea shall be converted to you, the forces of the Gentiles shall come to you. 6The multitude of camels shall cover you, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall show forth the praises of the LORD. 7All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together to you, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you: they shall come up with acceptance on my altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.


At present I am in the Kingdom of Tonga on behalf of Unitingworld. I am with three companions from the Uniting Church in Australia (Rev. Dr. Cliff Bird, Rev. Nau Ahosivi and Alimonie Taumoepeau). We have been invited by the Free Wesleyan Church of Tonga to connect with the churches here and conduct disaster recovery chaplaincy training with the view to the establishment of a national disaster recovery network.
On Friday 15th the program was launched in a ceremony which included many of the ministers of the Free Wesleyan Church and key leaders of many other denominations. The church’s president gave a scriptural reflection and the Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Siaosi Sovalini, brought the official address. There was a tangible sense of anticipation and excitement, from all present, about this initiative. It seems the time is ripe. As the speaker reminded everyone, Tonga is second only to Vanuatu on the international risk register for natural disasters. This vulnerable island nation is no stranger to cyclones, high tides, Volcanic eruption and earthquakes; and the churches are keen to train and organise their ministry agents to work alongside relief agencies when disasters strike.
One of the very real challenges to this was that there was simply no word in the Tongan language which stands as an equivalent to the English word “Chaplain”.
Tonga has a very well established understanding of the role and the status of ministers, who are highly respected in their communities; but to see a ministry agent working out and beyond the known structures of worship and faith community leadership is a radically new concept. It is a personal, social and theological revolution to think, train and minister in this way.
The challenge of finding a Tongan equivalent to “chaplain” fell to the much-respected wordsmith Rev Dr, Mohenoa Puloka who, after some reflection suggested the word “Takiama”.
The origin of the Takiama goes back to the ancient history and culture of Tonga. The term literally means “catcher of the light”. When people of the islands travelled by day, they were guided by the winds and the waves; when they travelled by night they looked to the stars in the sky to navigate. The people who were had this skill were called Takiama, because they had the ability to ‘catch the light’, and – in the darkness – walk with the people, steering them to where they needed to go.
I have heard many metaphors used to describe disaster recovery chaplaincy, but none as vivid as this. In that context the chaplain is the “Takiama” for the people – the one who, in the greatest darkness – can look beyond it and catch the light of God to lead them forward.


Shandon Weekday School has been in operation since 1958. SWS was born as an extension of the church's desire for outreach to and for children of all races, creeds, and religious backgrounds. SWS seeks to provide a Christian, nurturing environment that encourages the social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual growth of children. Through a variety of programs in physical activity and group interaction plus creative learning in art, language, science, number exploration, movement and music, the child will grow to develop a good image of his/her own worth as a child of God. Our Mission is "to teach and care for children in a nurturing, Christian environment that encourages their social, physical, spiritual, and intellectual growth." Our Vision is "for every child to feel safe, loved, and valued."