Faith Baptist Church is thrilled to announce its exciting partnership with Rebotec Australia, a leading provider of high-quality care equipment. Together, they are actively collaborating to support the local aged care and disability communities with essential tools and resources that enhance the quality of life for individuals in need.
Faith Baptist Church has always been committed to making a positive impact on the lives of its community members. By joining forces with Rebotec Australia, a renowned provider of care equipment known for its dedication to innovation and quality, the church is taking a significant step towards fulfilling its mission.
Rebotec Australia specializes in offering a wide range of products designed to assist individuals with mobility challenges, aging-related issues, and disabilities. These include mobility aids, bathroom safety equipment, walking aids, and more. Through this partnership, Faith Baptist Church will have access to Rebotec Australia’s extensive catalogue of high-quality products, which will be used to support the elderly and disabled individuals in their local community.
“We are excited to collaborate with Rebotec Australia in our shared mission to support those in our community who need it the most,” “This partnership allows us to provide essential care equipment that promotes independence and enhances the overall well-being of individuals in aged care and disability communities.”
Rebotec Australia has earned a reputation for its commitment to quality and innovation. Their products are designed with user comfort, safety, and durability in mind, ensuring that those who rely on them can do so with confidence.
“We are honored to partner with Faith Baptist Church to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing mobility and care challenges,”. “By combining our expertise in care equipment with the church’s dedication to serving the community, we can empower individuals to lead more fulfilling lives.”
Together, Faith Baptist Church and Rebotec Australia plan to organize community events, educational workshops, and distribution programs to provide practical support to local aged care and disability communities. This partnership reflects their shared commitment to improving the lives of those they serve.
About Faith Baptist Church
Faith Baptist Church is a welcoming and compassionate community dedicated to serving the needs of individuals and families. With a strong commitment to faith and community service, the church strives to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
About Rebotec Australia
Rebotec Australia is a leading provider of high-quality care equipment, specializing in mobility aids, bathroom safety equipment, and other products designed to enhance the lives of individuals with mobility and care needs. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, Rebotec Australia aims to empower individuals to lead more independent and fulfilling lives.


Mission & Outcomes
The Mission of the Department of Biblical Studies Degree (BA) is to provide the student with a foundational knowledge of the history, literature, and theology of the Old and New Testaments, of systematic and historical theology, and of methods for further biblical and theological studies – equipping men and women in mind and character to impact the world for the Lord Jesus Christ.
Upon completion of the Bachelors Degree in Biblical & Theological Studies, graduates will:
- Bible Backgrounds
Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the geography, history, social and cultural backgrounds of the Old and New Testament Scriptures to be able to interpret the Bible with a keen sensitivity to these vital contextual issues.
Demonstrate the appropriate use of principles of sound interpretation and application of the Bible, including analysis of presuppositions, general rules, and specialized principles for the various Biblical genres.
- General Biblical Knowledge
Articulate the general content, outline, themes, and theology of the Old and New Testament Scriptures.
- Research Tools
Recognize quality biblical and theological research tools that are available and be able to implement them for research in Biblical studies.
- Biblical Languages
Read and analyze a biblical text in either koine Greek or Hebrew.
- Church History
Distinguish major historical movements of the church and evaluate their impact upon the development of evangelical theology.
- Major Doctrines
Examine the issues, rationale, and Biblical texts for the major doctrines of the Bible, and systematize personal positions on additional theological issues as they relate to doctrines, spiritual disciplines, ministry, and life in general.
- Biblical Integration
Integrate biblical and theological truth into one's sense of the fulfillment of God's purpose in his/her life ("to be conformed to the image of His Son") resulting in a greater value of worship and gratitude to God as expressed in greater love for God "with all of one's heart, soul, mind, and strength" and a greater vision for personal mission and ministry.


1 Simon Peter, a servant and apostle of Jesus Christ,
To those who through the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ have received a faith as precious as ours:
2 Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.
3 His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. 4 Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
5 For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.
10 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble, 11 and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
12 So I will always remind you of these things, even though you know them and are firmly established in the truth you now have. 13 I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, 14 because I know that I will soon put it aside, as our Lord Jesus Christ has made clear to me. 15 And I will make every effort to see that after my departure you will always be able to remember these things.
16 For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” 18 We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain.
19 We also have the prophetic message as something completely reliable, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20 Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
1 But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. 3 In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping.
4 For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them in chains of darkness to be held for judgment; 5 if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others; 6 if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly; 7 and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless 8 (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)— 9 if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment. 10 This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the flesh and despise authority.
Bold and arrogant, they are not afraid to heap abuse on celestial beings; 11 yet even angels, although they are stronger and more powerful, do not heap abuse on such beings when bringing judgment on them from the Lord. 12 But these people blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like unreasoning animals, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like animals they too will perish.
13 They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you. 14 With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! 15 They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Bezer, who loved the wages of wickedness. 16 But he was rebuked for his wrongdoing by a donkey—an animal without speech—who spoke with a human voice and restrained the prophet’s madness.
17 These people are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them. 18 For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error. 19 They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for “people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.” 20 If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and are overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning. 21 It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them. 22 Of them the proverbs are true: “A dog returns to its vomit,” and, “A sow that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud.”


Sometimes abuse is easy to spot, but not always. The wounds from emotional abuse can be difficult to detect...
Hurtful words, degrading looks, threatening behaviors—these experiences can wound your heart and cause immense pain. But, healing is possible.
Find refreshment in God's Word with this six-week study on understanding verbal and emotional abuse by Rose Publishing. Packed with practical tips, realistic advice, and discussion questions, the 6-week Understanding Verbal and Emotional Abuse Bible study invites you to dive deeper into the Bible and shows you how to apply its truth to your life. Discover:
- 8 Definitions for Verbal and Emotional Abuse
- 11 Signs of Brainwashing
- Bible Verses to Help Heal and Recover
- 12 Signs of Control and Manipulation and more!
Unlike other Bible studies on these topics, these studies use larger print, charts, bulleted list and an easy-to-scan format, along with discussion questions and life applications for each week.
112 pages. 6"x9" Paperback. Perfect for small groups, Bible study, and individual use.
Based on June Hunt's bestselling Hope for the Heart Series (over 1 million copies sold), you will learn biblical truths and practical how to s for stopping the pain of abuse, establishing healthy expectations, and for restoring peace in all your relationships. Based on June Hunt s easy-to-scan and Bible-based format, this interactive 6-week Bible study digs deep into scripture, showing you that you do have choices; you can have boundaries; and you can find healing.
3 Key Features of the Understanding Verbal and Emotional Abuse Hope for the Heart Bible Study
- Digs into Scripture: Find out what the Bible says about verbal and emotional abuse, restoration and healing, characteristics of abuse, and more.
- Interactive and Practical: Based on the bestselling Hope for the Heart series (over 1 million copies sold), this trusted study includes reflection questions, journaling, study guide, quizzes, and practical steps you can take each day.
- Relevant and Relatable: It shares real stories and answers tough questions, such as: How can I safely confront my abuser? Is restoration ever possible for the abuser?
- Anyone Can Lead It! Easy-to-follow leader tips, preparation guides, and step-by-step instructions will give you the confidence to take a disciple or an entire group through the study!
Simple Biblical Foundations for Practical Solutions
Unlike other group studies available, this Hope for the Heart Bible study is laid out in an easy-to-follow format with key principles straight from the Word of God. Relevant Scriptures are outlined and formatted to clearly give you a step-by-step roadmap to help you understanding verbal and emotional abuse, all while equipping you to lead others on the path to freedom!
- Summarizes Causes, Definitions, Characteristics, and Solutions
- Provides Clear Outlines, Key Points, and Scripture References
- Includes Reflection Questions and Space for Journaling
Publisher: Aspire Press (April 24, 2017)
Weight: 1.1 pounds
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Jesus and the apostles
The Call of the Fishermen
John 1:35-51, Matthew 4:18-22, Mark 1:16-20, Luke 5:1-11
The story of the call of the first four disciples, the Galilean fishermen Simon Peter, Andrew, James and John, starts with John the Baptist, as we have seen in the chapter on Jesus and John the Baptist. John was at Bethany beside the River Jordan [*1], as usual baptising the crowds who came to him. In addition to the crowds who followed John, he had a number of closer disciples. These included Andrew, and probably also Simon Peter, Philip and Nathanael [*2].
After John had baptised Jesus he was standing one day with Andrew and another of his disciples when Jesus passed by. John pointed out Jesus to the two disciples and said: "That man is the Lamb of God." Andrew and the other disciple went off with Jesus and spent the rest of the day with him.
The timing is a bit uncertain [*3] but the most obvious way of understanding it is that at about four o'clock in the afternoon Andrew went off, found his brother Simon Peter and brought him to Jesus. Andrew was by now convinced that Jesus was the expected Messiah and told Simon so.
The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Though not specifically stated the impression is given that Andrew, Simon, Philip and Nathanael all went with him leaving John the Baptist behind in Bethany.
Philip is most likely identified with the Philip who became one of the twelve apostles (Mark 3:16-19). Some people guess that Nathanael is the same as Bartholomew [*4]. Otherwise Nathanael is not mentioned again. We do not know what their jobs were.
Our attention next turns to the fishermen, Andrew, Simon, James and John. [Matthew 4:18-22, Mark 1:16-20]
Jesus was walking along the shore of the Lake of Galilee when he saw Simon and Andrew throwing their nets in the lake. These were a particular type of net called a "casting-net" which is still in use in some parts of the Middle East. I have seen it used on the White Nile at a dam called the Jebel Aulia Dam. The net itself is circular, maybe four metres across, with weights around the edge. The centre of the net is attached to a rope. It is wrapped up in a special way and thrown out into the water. In the water the edges are brought together by the weights and any fish are trapped inside. It is a slow and rather inefficient way of catching fish, but it does not require a boat, and so is cheaper. We know from elsewhere that Simon and Andrew did in fact also have boats, and they could have thrown their "casting-nets" from their boats.
Jesus said to them: "Come with me and I will lead you to catch men, not fish." They immediately left their nets and followed Jesus.
A little further on he saw James and John, the sons of Zebedee. They were in a boat with their father cleaning the nets. Jesus called them as well and they left the boat and followed him.
This is a very simple story of how Jesus gathered together his first four disciples. There was no theology about anything that day. But how much did they understand? Simon and Andrew had been disciples of John the Baptist so they were clearly in agreement with his teaching about sin and repentance in its social context of how people were to behave towards each other, with special reference to their positions of employment. Then John the Baptist had told them that Jesus was the "Lamb of God" and probably also that he was the "Messiah". They had already shown their willingness to leave home to follow John, so following Jesus would not have been a problem for them. This is also something that Jesus would have taken into account in choosing them.
Luke [in Luke 5:1-11] tells a story which is rather different in its details. Some people regard it as a different occasion and others regard it as the same occasion. I will treat it as the same occasion for three reasons. First because there is considerable similarity in the main points of the story and secondly because if there were two separate incidents it would be difficult to explain what had happened between them. Finally if we look at the reports of any two modern newspapers describing the same events, would we find the reports any closer than those of Matthew and Mark on the one hand and Luke on the other? I think not. [*5] Whatever the case, let us now look at Luke's report.
The picture of the fishermen is largely the same. Most fishing takes place at night. So here we are in the morning with the fishermen cleaning their nets before going home to rest. The main fishing would have been done from the boats during the night with the normal nets, but Matthew and Mark have some of them making one last attempt to catch fish with the inefficient casting-nets.
In Luke the picture of Jesus is different. In Matthew and Mark, Jesus is walking beside the lake. In Luke he is teaching a crowd of people. But is there really much difference? Supposing a modern eyewitness to an accident was quoted in a modern newspaper. One might say that he was walking along the road where the accident happened. The other might say that he was a postman making his first delivery of letters for the day in the street when the accident happened in that street.
Jesus got into Simon's boat and continued to teach the crowd with the boat bobbing about in the lake. By keeping the people from crowding right up to him he made it easier for his voice to reach the people further back. Also if the shoreline had a good slope at that point it would have formed a natural auditorium with the people further back looking over heads of those in front of them.
When Jesus had finished teaching he told Simon to go into deeper water and let out the nets. Simon was not very hopeful. He said that they had worked all night and caught nothing, but if Jesus said so he would do so. At this point Simon is showing the special regard in which he held Jesus. Luke has already told the story that Jesus healed Simon's mother-in-law. If this did indeed take place before this event, Simon would have had a very special reason for doing what Jesus told him to do.
So Simon let down the nets into the lake and made a big catch of fish. They summoned their fellow fishermen [*6] in the other boat to come and help them and both boats were filled till they nearly sank.
Simon reacted in amazement and awareness of his own shortcoming. He wanted Jesus to leave him, to go away. How could he cope with the challenge of being with Jesus and the continuous awareness of his own failure? No. This was more than he could bear. But Jesus reassured him. "Don't be afraid," he said. And then he added his call to Simon to follow him: "From now on you will capture men." [*7]
They all pulled their boats up onto the shore, left them there and went off with Jesus.
What a journey it was to be! They could scarcely have guessed the half of it! It took them all over Galilee, Samaria and Judea and for some of them beyond. They left behind their assured source of income to face uncertainty. Peter was eventually crucified upside down in Rome [*8]. Andrew was said to have gone to Scythia, the land of an ancient tribe living to the north who originated in Siberia and were notorious as fierce warriors [*9]. James was put to death on the orders of Herod Agrippa I [Acts 12:1-2]. John became the writer of the gospel and is said to have lived much of his long life and died in Ephesus [*10].
I became a Christian in 1962 while a student studying physics at university. In my own little way, certainly not to be compared with the apostles, it has meant an enormous change in life. I later studied theology, went overseas as a missionary, worked overseas in a variety of secular jobs, and am currently working as a translator in a little village in Cornwall. More than these external changes I have had to change in many other ways.
But to return to the four fishermen. Why did Jesus choose them and not some of the more educated people about, such as the religious leaders, the rabbis? We have already seen that two of the four, Simon and Andrew, had been disciples of John the Baptist. Their lack of education did not mean that they were unintelligent, especially as educational opportunities were few in those days, and largely restricted to religious education. The problem with education is that it can close a person's mind to new ideas, just as much as it can open their mind. Persuading scientists and many other professional people to accept something new is a notoriously difficult problem! Jesus wanted "new skins for new wine". This is why he did not choose any rabbis to be among the apostles, even if they had been willing to join him. Besides the fishermen and others Jesus chose to be his disciples were mostly closely related to the ordinary people, whereas the rabbis had become a class apart.
We should also consider the social status of both Jesus and fishermen. In traditional settled Middle Eastern societies land ownership is the key to social status. Among nomads it is the ownership of camels and other herds. People like carpenters, fishermen, ferry-boatmen and other tradesmen living in the villages were not farmers owning land. Hence they were among the lower social classes. This included Jesus and his first four disciples. James and John may have achieved some social status from the fact that their father, Zebedee, was an employer with employees [Mark 1:20]. Tradesmen were probably however to be ranked above the landless day-labourers who appear in Jesus's parables.
There are some detailed points worthy of note in this story:
*1: Bethany [John 1:28]. The location of this village called Bethany is not known. Some ancient manuscripts read "Bethabara" and this is supported by the ancient Christian writer Origen. Place names are easily misread by copyists dealing with hand-written documents. It is a problem I face all the time as a translator.
*2: John, the gospel writer, certainly tells us that Andrew was one of John the Baptist's disciples [John 1:40]. The presence of the others, Simon Peter, Philip and Nathaniel, in the same place as John the Baptist, away from their home village of Bethsaida, strongly suggests that they too were among John's disciples.
*3: John, the gospel writer, appears to count time in hours from sunrise with twelve hours between sunrise and sunset [see John 11:9]. Here he fixes the time as the "tenth" hour. Other times mentioned in the gospel are the "sixth" hour when Jesus arrived at the well in Samaria [John 4:6] and the "sixth" hour when Jesus was brought to Pilate. On this reckoning the "tenth" hour becomes four o'clock in the afternoon. Modern translations make this conversion to four o'clock whereas the older translations translate literally as the "tenth" hour.
*4. This is because Bartholomew means "Son of Tholomew" in Aramaic, the language of the people in Jesus's day. Tholomew was his father's name. It is common in the Middle East today for people to be known as "Son of so and so". I was often called "Son of Gordon" in the Middle East. People thought "Gordon" was my father's name. This person then was known as "Son of Tholomew", but we do not know his own name. Because Bartholomew comes next to Philip in the list of the apostles, it is thought that his own name may have been Nathanael.
*5 Questions like this are always complicated. On the one hand there are people who stand on their heads and perform all sorts of mental contortions to convince us that there are no differences, because to admit differences is to open the door to the possibility that the gospel writers are inaccurate and therefore unreliable and not to be trusted about anything. They are indeed right to be afraid of this, because many have taken this path to the point where the believe almost nothing the gospels record. But this does not mean that some of their attempts to "prove" that different versions are both exactly compatible are reasonable. On the other hand there are people who seem determined to find contradictions where there really are none. Perhaps a good starting point for any discussion of this matter is to ask whether the differences are greater than would be found in two reports by honest modern newspaper reporters.
*6. The word for which I have used "fellow fishermen" means in general "partners, companions, accomplices". The translation "partners" used in some versions might be taken to suggest there was a formal business partnership between them with agreed shares in the proceeds of the catches they took. While this is not uncommon in an industry such as fishing, even when on such a simple scale, the Greek word does not prove it here.
*7. The word used for "capture" was particularly used in the sense of capture alive in battle rather than kill. Whereas Matthew and Mark used what was perhaps the original image of fishing for men that Jesus used, Luke has avoided the image and used a straightforward word meaning "capture". He may have felt this to be more suited to his readers. As a translator I often have to consider which word of several might be more appropriate for the intended readers.
*8. Peter's death by crucifixion is recorded by the early historian of Christianity Eusebius in his book "Ecclesiastical History", Book II, Section 25; Book III, Section 1. [Loeb Classical Library, Volume 1, Pages 179 and 191.]
*9 Eusebius, "Ecclesiastical History", Book III, Section 1. [Loeb Classical Library, Volume 1, Page 191.]
*10. Also Eusebius, "Ecclesiastical History", Book III, Section 1. [Loeb Classical Library, Volume 1, Page 191.]
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Chosen as the royal pantheon by King Manuel I and financed by the fabulous wealth that came from trade with India, the monumental Jeronimos Monastery is a brilliant synthesis of late-Gothic and early Renaissance styles. (You’ve heard me talk about Manueline architecture and design earlier. In this building it reaches its apotheosis) Begun in 1501, it’s also an example of unquestionable technical mastery; especially in the elegant and bold ribbed dome that covers the entire church and the graceful double arches and extravagantly carved columns of the interior cloister. Standing at the entrance to Lisbon harbor in Belem, the monastery is a testament to Portugal’s continued belief in the Age of Exploration. Inside the main door of the church is another manifestation of that faith: the tomb of Vasco da Gama.


Welcome! We invite everyone to join us in worship of the risen Lord Jesus, and in fellowship as the body of Christ, as we seek to be God’s people in and for the world.
The Core Purpose of Emmaus Anglican Church is to: “To embody the good news of God, who desires to reconcile all people and all things to himself through Jesus.”
In a world that is confused, ungrounded, busy and loud, where people are over-advertised, over-worked, over-scheduled, and over-connected (distracted), Emmaus is seeking be a prophetic community here in Montreal. A community that celebrates all that is good, beautiful and true in the world, while also being a prophetic community that express, and lives into, the Kingdom of Heaven here and now.
Emmaus understands herself to be HISTORIC, THOUGHTFUL and LOVING:
Historic: That we are Anglican and understand ourselves, in a very specific way, to be a part of the one, holy, catholic and apostolic church. Our worship is grounded in the historic liturgy expressed in the Book of Common Prayer. Our desire is to faithfully worship the living God through Word and Sacrament in a way that brings Him honour, and in a way that shapes and forms us to be His people in and for the world.
Thoughtful: We recognize that today, perhaps more than ever, we need to learn to think rightly, humbly and wisely about God and His world. We desire for our worship of the Triune God to be thoughtful, to provide space for quiet and contemplation, and to honour God’s Holy Word. We want our worship to engage our minds and our hearts so that we know how to think critically, generously, and wisely as we seek to be God’s people in and for the world.
Loving: That we desire is to be a loving community. A community of people whose hearts are open to all (2 Cor. 6:11), and who practice generosity and hospitality in our gatherings, our homes and our neighbourhoods. We know that we can think all the right things, say all the right things, and do all the right things, but if we don’t have love we are nothing (1 Cor. 13).
We invite you to join us, as we seek to be God’s people in and for the world, here in Montreal.


I have a new favorite saying.
"Go with the Goers." (go-ers)
While talking with a friend last night she said her dad used to say this. We were talking about the changes coming in our church - big changes that seem a little overwhelming to many. I was commenting on how I really think that the church must keep changing in many ways. Of course, not in core theology but in the ways that it continues to reach people that feel lost or far from God.
I really believe that most organizations must embrace change in order to stay healthy.
Change is difficult, though. Just ask my 5 year old.
Personally, I like change.
I kinda thrive on it.
I like things to move fast. I move fast. While I enjoy the mundane in my life, I also find comfort in knowing that tomorrow is fresh and new! Full of God's mercy and grace. I know that he has something exciting just waiting for me each day if I am willing to trust in Him.
So, I go with the change more often than not. To my detriment, sometimes too quickly. I love change but thinking through things is not my greatest gift. Mostly though, I don't dwell in the way things were or the past too much. I don't find much comfort in the past. It seems like when I do that I often find pain, regret and disappointment.
Even sweet memories of my children can often cause me to wish they were still babies instead of enjoying the precious little people they are becoming.
The future - now that is bright.
So, how about you?
" The only way I'm going is kicking and screaming."


By Claudia Carbone
Jesus Christ Superstar, the rock opera that shook up Broadway in its 1971 debut, currently is rocking the Arvada Center in a nearly flawless production. Director Rod Lansberry and his team meticulously researched the year 33 A.D for a realistic staging of the final days of Christ’s life. Add the cacophony of the 70s synthesizer-heavy rock music of a young (21) Andrew Lloyd Webber and punchy pop lyrics by 25-year-old Tim Rice, and it’s another spectacular hit musical for the Arvada Center. As an opera, there are no spoken words, only singing.
While the story is well known, the part of the Judas is emphasized more in this play than in the Bible version. AC veteran Matt LaFontaine is outstanding in the challenging role, capturing all the angst and psyche of the conflicted apostle who warns Jesus that things have gone sour. He betrays Him to the high priest Caiaphus, capably channeled by Stephen Day’s big bass voice in “This Jesus Must Die.”
Mary Magdalene also has an expanded role. Phamaly star Jenna Bainbridge beautifully captures the character with a real-life limp and her lilting voice comforting Jesus with “Everything’s Alright” and wondering “what’s it all about” in the haunting ballad “I Don’t Know How to Love Him.”
In his AC debut, New York City-based Billy Lewis, Jr. is a simpatico Jesus in looks and demeanor, even if his long locks are perfectly coiffed. JC reveals His humanity when He comes unglued in The Temple and shows fear and despair in the Garden of Gethsemane.” He prays, “I was inspired; now I’m sad and tired” and asks God to “take me now “before I change my mind.” Lewis delivers Jesus with conviction and passion, eliciting emotion without sentimentality.
The musical star of the show is the strong chorus whose perfectly blended voices arouse feelings with songs like “What’s the Buzz,” “Hosanna,” and the big finale “Jesus Christ Superstar.” The entire soundtrack was released as a concept album in 1970, paving the way for the stage production a year later. The title song and “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” became immediate hit singles.
A highlight is local veteran actor Wayne Kennedy as Herod. His vaudevillian soft-shoe number with the ensemble in “King Herod’s Song” is terrific and adds a comedic touch to the drama. Another funny line is Jesus asking His apostles, “Why are you you obsessed with fighting? Stick to fishing from now on.”
Joe Callahan is fine as Annas, and Markus Warren understands the role Pontius Pilate played in The Passion and plays it accordingly.
Brian Mallgrave’s rotating set design realistically represents the mountains, rocks and sand of the Judaean Desert. Shannon McKinney’s lighting is a spectacular enhancement of the scenes, especially at the end when the only light is the white light on Jesus’s face on the cross.
This production is a moving portrayal of The Passion of Christ. No matter what your religion, you will be touched.
A note about The Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities: The 526-seat Main Stage Theatre is one of three theaters in the multidisciplinary facility that include art galleries, children’s theatre, camps and classes. There’s not a bad seat in The Main Stage Theatre with its steep incline, and patrons are allowed to bring beverages to their seats.
The Arvada Center is at 6901 Wadsworth Blvd. Parking is free. Jesus Christ Superstar runs through April 16. For more information and tickets, call 720-898-7200 or visit arvadacenter.org.
Claudia Carbone is an award-winning journalist based in Denver. She covers performing arts, travel and restaurants for a variety of magazines and websites. Follow her travel blog Sleepin’ Around on GoWorldTravel.com.
Jesus Christ Superstar plays at the Arvada Center through April 16, Easter Sunday


Her Year in Review
We've decided to begin a tradition: write a new vow to each other every anniversary and read it to the other in front of God. Here's mine.
I remember the day in fragmented, fleeting moments. We were wide-eyed newlyweds basking in the glory of the beautiful sacrament. You in a handsome, tailored suit; me in a lacey, immaculate gown. Us in the center of our circle of family and friends, receiving wishes enough to last a lifetime. A bride and a groom celebrating, dancing, making merry.
And a year after, here we are: Stripped off the adornment, decoration, and finery characteristic of a wedding day. Removed from the fanciful dreams and delights painted by half-truths. Handed reality, rawness, and vulnerability on a not-so-silver plate. Outsiders will say, ‘What despair!’ But marked with my own blood, I say, ‘What peace!’
Because there is nothing that can awash my soul with serenity more than a marriage with you. There were the big adventures: traveling to new worlds, seeing the amazing and the majestic, making memories in foreign lands. But more importantly, there was the ordinary miraculous that you and I only know of: decorating a home, creating a routine, writing about our days, establishing weekend brunch traditions, fighting our fights, making up, dreaming of children, praying on bended knees, cheering for each other. It’s been proven: it’s the tiny things that are beautiful. Because they are the everyday.
We’ve done a lot but we’ve actually only just begun. There are still so many dreams to unfold, things to do, and a marriage to build. I vow to be a nobler wife, prodding you through life with only gentleness and kindness. I vow to laugh with you, without fear of the future. I vow to step into your world and get to know the corners like my own. I vow to be grateful, always, especially during the ugly moments. I vow to never ever give up on our hopes even when they seem impossible, even if they say negative for now.
These are the things you deserve because… wow, what a year you have given me. Thank you teaching me how to be a wife first; how to live my life solely for you; how to clothe myself with a singular, wondrous love directed to you and you alone. Never have I ever thought that I would be taught this breathtaking pursuit so soon in life. I will never trade it for the world.
I’ve heard it said, let your wedding be a wonder. Well I say, let our marriage be a wonder and infinitely more. God knows our first year was exactly that (I think He made sure of that). Happy Anniversary, Buddy! I love you, through the ordinary and the miraculous, always and forever.


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Mylon LeFevre, a pioneering force in contemporary Christian music known for his Southern rock-infused brand of gospel, passed away on September 8th 2023, due to long battle with cancer. LeFevre’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, musicians and the Christian community celebrating his memorable legacy.
Born in Gulfport, Mississippi in 1944, LeFevre grew up performing with his family’s Southern gospel quartet. But it was in the 1970s that he carved out his unique niche, fusing faith-based lyrics with rock rhythms to create a progressive new sound aimed at engaging secular youth audiences.
LeFevre formed the band Mylon and Broken Heart in the mid-70s. Their album “Crack the Sky” was a breakthrough, spawning Christian radio hits like “Sweet Victory” that resonated with a generation of young believers. LeFevre’s authentic performance style coupled with innovative musical arrangements made his brand of Christian rock accessible in a way few had achieved before.
Over his long career, LeFevre used his platform not just for music, but ministry. His concerts evolved into revivals where he’d preach and lead youth to Christ by the thousands. Mylon and Broken Heart toured extensively nationwide, selling out arenas and exposing Christian rock to the masses.
His goal was always to bring new audiences, especially disenchanted youth, into the church through the connective power of rock. LeFevre’s openness about his faith journey through drug addiction and the vagabond lifestyle made his message relatable. His legacy became defined by his focus on redemption and using his talents for evangelism.
Beyond his pioneering sound, LeFevre co-founded the gospel label One Way Records in the 1970s which expanded Christian contemporary music distribution and signing new talent. The label proved instrumental in building what became the Christian music industry.
LeFevre’s sudden passing prompted many online tributes from Christian artists across genres who praised his innovation and ministry. “He broke down barriers with his music,” wrote singer Michael W. Smith. Author Brennan Manning called LeFevre’s onstage ministry “radically honest” in reflecting real struggles.
Mylon LeFevre wife shared the Memoria Post on Facebook by writing:-
Mylon Le Fevre
10-6-44 to 9-8-23
“Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” I Timothy 6:12 NKJV
When we discussed heaven through the years, Mylon was most excited about receiving the soul winner’s crown. With his contemporary Christian rock band, Mylon and Broken Heart, he had the privilege of leading over 250,000 youth to Jesus. He cherished all the years of music ministry and the countless lives touched through his songs but his greatest joy was teaching the Word of God, especially through our broadcast, On the Road to Freedom. (This pic was his fave spot.)
Throughout the last years of this intense non-stop battle, never once did I hear him falter in his good confession of faith. In every broadcast and church service, many witnesses can attest to his bold declaration: JESUS IS MY HEALER.
Until his very last breath he fought the good fight of faith. He finished his race. He kept the faith. II Timothy 4:7
My honey, we discussed many times how we both daily answered the call for the holy affirmation that I know you are now hearing,
“Well done good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
My love, you are finally enjoying in this moment what you affectionately referred to as “the first day of forever.”
It has been my highest honor and privilege for God to trust me with you these past 25 years.
All my love, Christi
John L. Cooper Author of Awake & Alive of the Truth also shared a grief note on Facebook by writing:-
I just found out that my good friend, mentor, and Christian music veteran, Mylon LeFevre @mylonchristilefevre passed away last night. I don’t know what to say. Mylon was a hero; one of a kind. I’m gonna miss him. Much love to his wife Christi.
While health issues had slowed LeFevre’s public appearances in recent years, his mountainous impact on Christian music remains. The musical trailblazer’s unique style and dedication to his faith was an inspiration. He leaves a legacy of using creative expression like none before him to share his believes and touch endless lives. Even decades later, the songs of Mylon LeFevre continue ministering to legions of fans worldwide.


Last Monday night, J and I drove across town to the home of our friends Chris and Hannah, for their annual Advent readings. Every year, they make a pot of mulled cider, buy some festive goodies, and invite friends to join them as they light their Advent wreath and read from the week’s lectionary, and from the beautiful book God With Us.
This was our first time attending their readings, but as I listened to the words of Isaiah and Luke (and Scott Cairns), cradling a mug of cider in my hands, it struck me anew: during Advent, we wait together.
Sometimes the spiritual life seems like a solitary journey, a long, solo trek down a road that’s often dark, as you stumble your way forward, talking to a God who never does answer in the way you want him to. The tradition I grew up in emphasized a “personal relationship” with Christ, which is a valid and beautiful thing. But when I struggle, or feel joyful, or have questions, I also work through those times with my community.
After two years at our wee church in Boston, J and I are part of the team of people who make things happen. We helped decorate the church for Advent, with wreaths and candles, and flowers on the windowsills. We help plan services, choose songs, print bulletins. We answer questions and make announcements and wash dishes after the monthly potluck. Sometimes it feels like a lot of responsibility. But we are never alone, even in our small congregation. We sing and pray, grieve and rejoice, live and love, together.
My memories of Christmas, whether musical or literary or simply nostalgic, are filled with the faces of those I love: my parents and sister, my husband, my extended family, my friends, my fellow expats in Oxford. And as I continue to practice Advent (a relatively new tradition for me), I practice it in community.
We light the candles on the wreath; we read Zechariah’s song and Mary’s Magnificat and Simeon’s strange, exhilarating words. We sing all the Christmas carols we can, and we start every service with “O Come O Come Emmanuel.” And we wait for God to come, both as the baby in the manger and as the triumphant King. We wait for his justice and love to break through in our lives.
We wait together. And that is true comfort, and true joy.


Martha grew up in beautiful northern Wyoming where she enjoyed the many benefits of living in a small farming community. Having three brothers, she quickly learned the advantages of being the only girl. Martha accepted Christ as her personal savior and was baptized at the age of 9. Only upon becoming an adult did she truly appreciate the great blessings of growing up in a Christian home.
After receiving a degree in Political Science from University of Wyoming, Martha moved to Waco, Texas to attend Baylor University School of Law, where she graduated with honors. Upon passing the Texas bar exam, Martha began her legal career in Houston specializing in business litigation. While in Houston she met and married the love of her life, Roger Lawley. Martha continued to actively practice law until 1994, when God called her family to Utah. For the next five years she was blessed to be a fulltime wife and mother as well as serving in her home church. In late 1999, God called Martha to be the Women’s Consultant for the Utah-Idaho Baptist Convention where she served until her family relocated to northern Wyoming.
Some of Martha’s most cherished childhood memories involve church – hearing Bible stories in Sunday school, enjoying church-wide fellowships and playing “Red Rover” at VBS. Her family was in church every time the doors were open and severe illness was the only acceptable excuse for not attending. Considering all that time Martha spent in church, you might think she figured out what “church” is all about. But, as time passed, she realized how little she really understood about church as described in the Bible. For years she defined church based on her experiences rather than what God’s Word says about it. As an adult, she found herself becoming frustrated and disillusioned, with church. God used Martha’s disappointment to motivate her to see what the Bible had to say about church. The more she learned about church from God’s Word, the more she understood its importance and the vital significance of each believer’s involvement. God continues to use these profound truths to change Martha’s attitudes and actions.
During this spiritual journey, Martha discovered that the image Scripture provides of Christ as the bridegroom and the church as the bride of Christ is rich with vital spiritual lessons. A greater understanding of this God-given pattern of the relationship between Christ and the church has radically changed her life. The insights she gained during her personal journey to understand the church and what God really wanted from her form the basis of her Bible study, Attending the Bride of Christ: Preparing for His Return.
Martha has been blessed with many opportunities to lead women’s conferences and retreats nationwide. God has graciously given her the gift of teaching and a passion to see lives continually changed through the power of God. Her humble, straightforward manner challenges women to go further with God. Her holistic approach to ministry emphasizes the importance of cooperating fully with God in all areas of spiritual transformation. She encourages women to wholeheartedly pursue the core spiritual disciplines of Bible study, prayer, worship, using spiritual gifts in service, and personal evangelism / missions involvement. Martha’s greatest desire is to provoke women to look at things differently – to step outside their usual ways of thinking so they may see things from God’s perspective and allow Him to reorder their lives accordingly.
Martha is the author of Attending the Bride of Christ: Preparing for His Return, a women’s Bible study originally published in November 2005 and republished in February 2015. She is a contributing author to several women’s leadership books including, Women Reaching Women: Beginning and Building a Growing Women’s Enrichment Ministry (revised edition), and Transformed Lives: Taking Women’s Ministry to the Next Level. She has also written numerous articles for LifeWay Church Resources Women’s Ministry web page and serves as a Women’s Ministry Multiplier for LifeWay.
Martha and Roger have three wonderful children, Amber, Katie and Taylor, as well as two fantastic sons-in-law, Keith and Nathan, one amazing daughter-in-law, Cayley and four precious grandchildren, Jared, Katelyn, David and Macie! She loves to read and is hopelessly addicted to following the latest news developments online and reading conservative political blogs. Roger and Martha enjoy getting away to the Big Horn Mountains and traveling together. Martha remains devoted to her local church where she and Roger, teach a young adult small group and she also serves as a Bible study leader and women’s ministry team member.
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.”Ephesians 3:20 -21


The San Antonio de Padua Parish Church, situated in Pila, Laguna, stands as a significant Roman Catholic edifice dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. Established in 1578, it holds the distinction of being the earliest parish church under the patronage of Saint Anthony in the Philippines, and likely, the first of its kind in Asia, by 1581. This historical landmark not only highlights the early spread of Roman Catholicism in the region but also marks a pivotal moment in the religious history of the Philippines and Asia, showcasing the deep-rooted influence of Antonine devotion in the area’s cultural and spiritual development.
The San Antonio de Padua Parish Church, located in Pila, Laguna, is a pivotal historical and religious site in the Philippines. Established in the 16th century, it showcases Spanish colonial architecture with a baroque facade and intricate interior designs. This church is not only a place of worship but also serves as a cultural hub for the town, which is a National Historical Landmark. The structure has undergone several reconstructions due to damages from natural disasters. Today, it remains a vital part of Pila’s community, hosting religious and cultural events that attract both locals and visitors, embodying the town’s rich heritage and devout spirituality.


Adventist Education exists to lead students to encounter Jesus, accept His gift of salvation, and follow Him. Central to this ministry is a shared understanding of the biblical worldview that embraces God’s plan for humankind—creation, the fall, redemption, and re-creation. Ellen White clearly stated the purpose of Adventist education this way, “To restore in man the image of his Maker, to bring him back to the perfection in which he was created, to promote the development of body, mind, and soul, that the divine purpose in his creation might be realized—this was to be the work of redemption. This is the object of education, the great object of life.” (Education 15-16).
Clearly identifying the importance of integrating Christian faith and values throughout the school program ensures that the best education is available to each student. This desired focus, this high and holy aim of Adventist education, is reflected in the following words: “True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study. It means more than a preparation for the life that now is. It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It is the harmonious development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of the wider service in the world to come” (Education 13).


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Before you even think of building a Christian website online, you must first get a good web hosting provider to help you with such things. It can be tough to build a website and if you have no idea how it is done, the best thing to do is to get help from those webs hosting providers. You are going to start with a platform provided by those web hosting services. With those hosting providers, they can give you a lot of wonderful features for your websites and you can really benefit a whole lot from them. You can not really do so well if you do not have those web hosting providers with you. Having help from website hosting providers will really give you courage to create the website of your dream.
When you build and create a website, you are going to want other people to find your website and there are many ways that you can do that. If you have never used SEO before, you are missing out because it can actually help you to promote your website online. You can use those marketing strategies to boost your website online so that more and more people will find it. Using those online search optimization strategies can really help you bring more and more people to your website and that is what you might really like because you can get to reach out to more people about your church and the Word of God. Using SEO for your online church website can really help because if people are looking for good churches that they can go to for Sunday worship, they can search online and find your website easily if you have used good website optimization strategies. If you want a good church website to go up online and bring in visitors to your church, you can get help from those Christian church website hosting providers and they will give you all the help that you need from them.


Pastor Alm and all members were present. Pastor opened with prayer and a scripture reading from the 1st Chapter in Luke. Phil read the minutes of the November meeting. Ben read the minutes from the November 7th joint meeting submitted by Johnadene Winkelman. Arden presented the Treasurer’s Report for November. Sue moved to donate $250.00 to the local Salvation Army. Galen 2nd, motion carried. Old Business: Ben reported he had the Christmas candy and 2 boxes of apples ordered for Christmas Eve. New Business: There will be a potluck Christmas brunch at the church this Sunday, Dec 9th. We will go Christmas Caroling Sunday, Dec 16th. The Christmas Eve program will be at 6:00 pm. Pastor will put something together. Church will be held at 10:45 am starting January 6th for Weyerts. Annual Meeting dates: We will have our annual meeting and lunch Jan 20th and the UCP church will be Jan 27th. Weyerts will have church at 9:00 am and the UCP church will be at 10:45 on the 27th for their meeting. A budget meeting for the two board Treasurer’s will be held at some point to set up Pastor’s proposed salary package. Pastor handed out the Parish of the Plains Treasurer’s report for the month of November. With no further business, the meeting closed with the Lord’s Prayer. Phil Narjes, Secretary
United Church of the Plains
The Governing Board of the United Church of the Plains met Wednesday December 5, 2012 at Trinity parsonage site. Present were: Janet Waite, Colleen McKay, Wendell Draper, Deana Winkelman, & Johnadene Winkelman. Hannah Geller, Phil Flohr Weston McConnell, and Greg Vath were excused.
Also present were:
Moderator: Pastor Eric Alm
Parish Treasurer: Karen Larson
We opened with devotions led by Pastor.
The following items were on the agenda:
Minutes of the November Meeting, both Treasurers’ Reports, and Pastor’s Report were all approved.
The respective committees submitted their reports.
Pastor talked with Highlands Camp about Vacation Bible School and with Dixie Anders about having a joint Bible school with Light Memorial. They have offered to bring the Sidney group to Dalton each day so the Bible school can be held in Dalton. There is not a firm date set at this time.
Karen reported that six from the youth group went to Sullivan Hills for the retreat and all seemed to have a very good time.
Unfortunately the Grace sale did not go through.
Colleen will check on buying a small copier for the Presbyterian site since the one at that site is not working.
A group that used the parsonage site had Sharon clean before they used it. It was decided to have this done at least once a month since the building has a lot of use.
A man from Kimball presented the plan for the mission trip for 2014 at a Sunday service. It was reported that we have a couple of people interested in going.
Confirmation is underway and going well.
We discussed purchasing a camera to use with our TV screen for funerals, etc. since we are presently borrowing one. we voted to look into purchasing one.
Leon Kriesel has offered to donate a live Christmas tree for the sanctuary. We were very pleased with his offer and we will try to get it up before next Sunday.
Barb Reimers will come to the next meeting to discuss insurance.
Our annual meeting will be January 27 and we will see if we can switch worship times with Grace so we can go directly to the meeting after lunch. We will need to have reports turned in to Deana or Johnadene by January 13 so that the Annual Report can be printed before the meeting.
The meeting adjourned with prayer.
Our next meeting will be Wednesday, January 2 at the parsonage. Communion Assistants and Offering Counters for December are Wendell & Phil and for January are Johnadene and Janet Waite.
Johnadene Winkelman, Clerk Respectfully submitted, Johnadene Winkelman, Clerk
United Church Women
UCW met December 16 2 9:30 AM. Bev opened the meeting with prayer and the purpose.
Minutes of the last meeting were given and approved. Treasurers report given and was accepted.
Motion made by Janet and seconded by Bev to nominate Connie Winkelman as our president for 2013. Unanimous vote for Connie was given by the group. Barb Reimers Vice President, Frances Miller Secretary, and Adalia McGuire will serve another term as Treasurer. Thank you to Bev for being a great President. Funeral lunch chairperson will be Trudy and Bernice. Thank you Karen for being chairperson of the funeral lunches. Great job well done.
Discussion held pertaining 2013 committees. Decided to have chairperson of the month next year. Sign up sheet was passed around the groups. Next meeting will be January 20 after church at the Presbyterian site.
Closed with the Lord’s Prayer. Frances Miller, Secretary


“They’ll rebuild the old ruins,
raise a new city out of the wreckage.
They’ll start over on the ruined cities,
take the rubble left behind and make it new.”
Isaiah 61:1-7 (MSG)
The verses leading up to this talk about how exactly those who mourn in Zion are able to ‘rebuild new cities.’
About what conditions are needed to move from mourning, to rebuilding.
What is within their power to rebuild will be dependent upon what they hear when all they see is ruin.
And the nature of what they rebuild will be shaped by the sort of voice that guides them.
The character of what they rebuild will be shaped by the name they choose to be known by.
New cities are raised from ruin because their hearts heard him even when their here and now eyes could only see and feel ruin.
What if it is he .. his companionship is precisely the condition we need to move from mourning to rebuilding?
Even when their here and now eyes could see more ruin than they could a new city…. The tune, the name, the voice is what lead them to even here find the energy through which to move, to hope.
He works from the inside out. He’s a soul dweller.
There he mends.
There he speaks. Brings forth a new melody. Brings forth a new name.
That’s where we will see the birth of new life. The birth of a new city. Not just once, but daily.
If we’ll only listen.
If we’ll only let him.
“So I’m not defeated by my weakness, but delighted! For when I feel my weakness and endure mistreatment—when I’m surrounded with troubles on every side and face persecution because of my love for Christ—I am made yet stronger. For my weakness becomes a portal to God’s power.” 2 Corinthians 12:10 (TPT)


GENESIS Chapter 12
GOD’S COVENANT WITH NOAH – A PICTURE OF GRACE
“And I will establish my covenant with you; neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth.“– Genesis 9:11
Noah’s first act, when he came out of the ark, was to build, not a house for himself, but an altar “unto the Lord” on which he offered blood sacrifices as burnt offerings to God. These were received by God as a sweet-smelling savor. Having received these offerings, God declared that he would never again curse the ground for man’s sake and that, as long as the earth remained, its seasons would not cease.
Then we are told, “God blessed Noah and his sons” (9:1). This is the first time we read of God blessing anyone since the fall of our father Adam. The basis of the blessing was the sacrifice God had received. That blood sacrifice was symbolical. It was a picture of Christ, the Lamb of God, for whose sake and through whose merits all the blessings of grace flow to sinners upon the earth.
This is a new beginning. Judgment is over. Old things have passed away. All things are now new. And everything now rests upon a covenant that God made, a covenant of grace, based upon shed blood. Man had forfeited the blessing of God. He had forfeited his position as lord of creation. But grace restores him. Grace reinstates him. God made a covenant with Noah and, in its scope, that covenant reached even to the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea (9:2). This covenant was made to last forever.
Everything about Noah’s salvation by the ark is representative of our salvation by the Lord Jesus Christ. The whole story is full of spiritual suggestions.
The ark is a picture of Christ and our redemption by him.
The salvation of Noah and his family by water is a picture of our salvation by the washing of regeneration. Like Noah, though we are in the world, we are dead to it. As Noah came out of the ark, out of the flood of God’s wrath, so we have come up out of the watery grave to walk with Christ in the newness of life by the power of our resurrected Redeemer.
As Noah came out of the ark to walk abroad in the earth, so the believer in Christ walks in freedom. Noah’s sacrifices to God picture the believer’s employment in this world – The worship and praise of God our Savior.
When the Lord commanded Noah to be fruitful and fill the earth with his fruit, he set forth the fruitfulness of faith. Believer’s bear fruit, the fruit of the Spirit, unto God (Gal. 5:22-23).
And as his witnesses in this world, believing sinners are spiritual parents to immortal souls, travailing in birth until Christ is formed in other chosen sinners by the work of God the Holy Spirit.
Noah’s dominion over the beasts of the earth symbolized the believer’s dominion over the lusts of his own nature. Grace has made us priests and kings in Christ. We are priests to offer up sacrifices to God by Christ. We are kings to rule our own spirits by the Spirit of Christ.
Noah’s security, standing before God upon the ground of God’s own covenant, was a picture of every believer’s security before God upon the basis of God’s covenant.
Before ever the earth was made, before time began, in old eternity, God made a covenant with his Son for the salvation of his elect. We call it the covenant of grace, or the everlasting covenant. That covenant was a solemn compact between God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, which guarantees and secures the salvation of God’s elect. It is a covenant ordered in all things and made sure from eternity (Eph. 1:3-6; 2 Tim. 1:9).
It is a covenant ratified by the blood of Christ at Calvary (Heb. 13:20). It is a covenant established and sealed to God’s elect by the Holy Spirit in regeneration through faith (Eph. 1:13-14). It was this blessed covenant of grace that comforted, sustained, and gave satisfaction to David on his deathbed (2 Sam. 23:5). It is this very same covenant which is the comfort and strength of believing sinners today (2 Tim. 1:9-12). The covenant that God made with Noah was a covenant of pure grace and was representative of the covenant of grace which he made for us with Christ before the world began.
WHO MADE THIS COVENANT?
The source of this covenant was God alone. This was a covenant which God made with Noah, not a covenant that Noah made with God (Read vv. 11, 12, and 15). This was God’s covenant with Noah. Man had no part in making it, or in keeping it. And man could not break it. So it is with that everlasting covenant of grace that God has made for us. It is a covenant of pure grace (Rom. 9:11-18). It is a covenant of unconditional, unqualified promise. God says, “I will” and “you shall” (Gal. 4:22-31).
Believers do not stand before God under a covenant that demands anything of us. We live under a covenant of promise. Its’ favors are unconditional. Its’ mercies are unlimited. All its’ blessings are made sure to all the seed by the oath and promise of God. As God kept his covenant with Noah, so the covenant of grace has been faithfully kept to this day (8:22), kept by God himself. Nothing in the covenant depends, in any degree, upon man – God says, “I will remember my covenant,” and he does. The garments of salvation are all garments of God’s providing, garments of grace. None of God’s people wear garments of linen and wool, of works and grace.
C. H. Spurgeon said, “My looking to Jesus brings me joy and peace, but it is God’s looking to Jesus which secures my salvation and that of all his elect; for it is impossible for God to look at Christ, our bleeding Surety, and then be angry with us for sins already punished in him.”
The covenant of grace is an everlasting covenant. Time does not change God or his purpose. David rejoiced to declare on his dying bed, “The Lord hath made with me and everlasting covenant, ordered in all things and sure.” Every child of God in this world can and should have the same joyful confidence in all his circumstances. Grace is never in jeopardy. Salvation is never in danger. God’s elect cannot, by any means, be lost (Isa. 54:9-10). The covenant of grace is a covenant made by God and kept by God.
WITH WHOM WAS THE COVENANT ESTABLISHED?
The covenant touched everything in God’s creation. The benefits of the covenant were given to all Noah’s posterity. But the covenant was made with only one man – Noah (v. 11). Even so, the covenant of grace was made with one Person – the Lord Jesus Christ; but that one Person was Surety for many (Heb. 7:22). God made his covenant for us with Christ. Our divine Surety met all the stipulations of the covenant for us. In him, only in him, every believer receives all the blessings of the covenant. They are ours in Christ and for his sake (Eph. 1:3-6; 2 Tim. 1:9).
WHAT WAS THE BASIS, OR FOUNDATION, OF THE COVENANT?
This covenant was God’s response to Noah’s sacrifice (Gen. 8:20-22). The covenant which God made with Noah was God’s answer to the “sweet savor” that ascended to him from the altar. All the blessings of the covenant flowed to Noah, because of the sacrifice. And all the blessings of the covenant of grace flow to all of God’s elect through “the blood of the everlasting covenant” (Heb. 13:20), the blood of Christ, “the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world” (Rev. 13:8).
WHY WAS THIS COVENANT MADE?
We must not pry into the secrets of almighty God. I do not pretend to know all that moved God in the covenant he made with Noah, or in the covenant he made with Christ for us. However, this much he has revealed. God made his covenant to be…
• a wondrous display of his amazing grace (Gen. 8:21; Eph. 1:6, 12, 14).
• a perpetual declaration of his glorious sovereignty (Gen. 8:22; Rom. 9:11-18).
• a solid ground of comfort to his elect (Rom. 8:28-32).
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE COVENANT?
In a word – Everything! The covenant God made with Noah included all the elements of the world (8:22), all the creatures of the world (9:3, 9, 10), and all the governments of the world (9:6). The covenant of grace includes everything. “All things are of God” (2 Cor. 5:18). “All things are yours” (1 Cor. 3:21; Hos. 2:18; Rom. 8:28). Everything in this world is so absolutely governed by God that nothing happens, nothing is done, nothing moves, nothing lives, nothing dies, except that which God has purposed for the fulfilling of his covenant in his elect.
WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE RAINBOW, THE TOKEN OF THE COVENANT?
Read verses 12 – 16. Here we see the rainbow upon the earth; but when John was caught up to heaven, he saw the rainbow encircling God’s throne (Rev. 4:3), and he saw Christ, our Mediator, ruling all things for the fulfilment of God’s covenant, crowned with a rainbow on his head (Rev. 10:1).
The Lord is ever mindful of his covenant. He does not need a token to remind him of it; but we do. So he gave us the rainbow. It was the symbol to Noah of God’s covenant with him; and it is a symbol to us to remind us of God’s covenant with us in Christ.
When may we expect to see the rainbow, the token of the covenant? The only time the rainbow is seen is when there is a cloud (v. 14). When our blessed Savior died at Calvary, there was a dark cloud over the earth; and there, in the death of our Substitute, we see God’s covenant. The believer’s days in this world are often filled with clouds, clouds hung by our heavenly Father – “When I bring a cloud.”
We read the lines and promises of God’s covenant best when we read them drawn out for us upon the dark and cloudy sky of adversity. You will never see the rainbow until a cloud appears. But, as A. W. Pink wrote, “How blessed to know that the cloud that comes over our sky is of his bringing! And if so, how sure that some way he will reveal his glory in it!”
If we would see the rainbow, there must also be some rain. The cloud itself does not give the rainbow. We will never see a rainbow without the crystal drops of water to reflect the light of the sun. And you cannot see the rainbow unless the sun shines. It is only as Christ, the Sun of Righteousness, shines in our hearts by the Spirit of grace that we are able to see God’s covenant and grace toward us in him.
Shine, O Sun of Righteousness Through all the clouds of time and sense;
Display the rainbow of your grace And rest my soul in covenant peace.
What do we see in the rainbow, the token of the covenant? In the rainbow, we see transcendent beauty and glory. That is what we see revealed in the covenant of God’s grace. In the rainbow, we see a symbol of justice and vengeance satisfied. There is the bow; but it has neither string nor arrow.
God has hung up his bow. The warfare is over (Isa. 40:1-2). That is the covenant fulfilled by our Surety. In the rainbow, we see streamers of joy, a banner of delight, flung across the heavens. That is what the covenant of grace is! (Jer. 31:3; 31-34; 32:37-41).
Donald S. Fortner, Pastor
Grace Baptist Church of Danville
2734 Old Stanford Road
Danville, Kentucky 40422-9438 USA
Taken from http://grace-for-today.com/1504.htm


Michael J. Marx, MBA, EdD, PCC is a Professional Certified Coach specializing in business coaching and life coaching. His passion is adult learning and he serves on the faculty of Concordia University Wisconsin (teaching MBA International Business, and MBA International Finance), and the Professional Christian Coaching Institute (teaching Coaching Skills Mastery, and Ethics & Risk Management).
Irrepressibly adventurous, Michael and his wife Joy lived and worked in Europe for over two decades. More recently, they traveled the U.S. and Canada in an RV, operating their location-neutral businesses and coaching/teaching via internet video. A ranch near Steamboat Springs, Colorado is now called home. Their German golden retriever, “Angel,” writes a blog (in two languages!) about her family’s adventures at: https://travelswithangel.wordpress.com/
A strong advocate for professionalism in Christian coaching, Michael currently serves as the leader of the ICF ethics community. His enthusiasm for the subject brought him to write Ethics and Risk Management for Christian Coaches (2016). Additionally, he is the president of Christian Coaches Network International.
Michael is a sought-after subject matter expert. He often speaks and conducts workshops on trust building, coaching relationships, ethics, evidenced-based coaching, and one-to-one (dyadic) learning. His hobbies include skiing and dog sledding. His greatest joy, however, comes from mentoring. Learn more about Michael at: www.BlazingNewTrailsCoaching.com


Campus Staff Ministers
Campus Staff Ministers are appointed by InterVarsity Christian Fellowship to serve at UW-Whitewater and advance mission on campus. Staff provide leadership, oversight, coaching, and training for student leaders, seeking to empower them to guide the ministry forward. InterVarsity Staff are funded entirely by the support of people who believe in the work they do on campus at UW-Whitewater.
Financially Supporting InterVarsity
Having a team of campus ministers at UW-Whitewater requires financial support from a team of partners who want to see God's work advance on campus. Would you be interested in praying for and donating to support our staff team? Your support will continue the long legacy of God's work at UW-Whitewater through InterVarsity, lasting from 1956 to present, and into the future.


We, the faithful of Saint Anne Catholic Church & Shrine, have been empowered by the Holy Spirit, through baptism, to be a community of disciples of Jesus Christ; participate in common worship, and live the Gospel values by reaching out to others in loving service.
Monday-Thursday / Lunes-Jueves
10:00am - 7:00pm
Friday / Viernes 10:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday / Sábado 9:00am - 3:00pm
Sunday / Domingo 9:00 - 2:00pm
The office is closed from 12:00pm - 1:00pm
La oficina esta cerrada de 12:00pm - 1:00pm


While spring-cleaning my home library, I rediscovered an inspirational gem tucked in one of the books as a marker – a quote from A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson, spiritual teacher, author and lecturer. I never tire of the timeless, encouraging message that speaks to our individual uniqueness, capacity for love and immeasurable human potential.
Now that spring has arrived, Williamson’s words are an apt reminder for us all to nurture our own personal growth and “let our own light shine.” Enjoy!
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Do you let your own light shine?


This Christmas is totally different for our family. It's happy and a little hard all at once. You see... not one, but TWO of my daughters are currently serving missions for our church. We are so incredibly pleased with their choice to serve God in this way
Hannah (Sister Johnson) with her Missionary Companion in the Missionary Training Center, Provo Utah. Hannah is currently serving in the Utah Salt Lake City Utah Mission (Centerville South Stake). You may be saying "Utah?"... yes... there's a lot of missionary work to do there. She is getting to speak English and couldn’t be happier. (I couldn't be happier about her being there too!) Hannah returns home on May 2015. Here is a little from her most recent letter home:
"Christmas is just so wonderful because its a time when everyone can focus on Christ and what He did for us. My challenge to you: Share the gospel with someone. Christ was the first Christmas gift, and the best gift you can give is the gospel, and its really NOT THAT HARD! Everyone needs it and its a great gift to the person you share it with, yourself, and Heavenly Father!"
Alex (Hermana Johnson) with Her Mission President, a new missionary that she is training, and the Mission Pres. wife. Alex is serving in the Chile Santiago North Mission (Quilicura, Lo Marcoleta). She is now fluent in Spanish and learning French and Creole. She returns next August. Here's a little tidbit from her most recent letter home:
"I feel so blessed to be in the mission during this time....for that exact reason. I remember Him more, and I remember the sacrifice He has made for me. I know He loves us so much. ¨God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son...that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.¨
We're feeling like our nest is suddenly near empty. We do have two beautiful daughters still at home but it's SO strange to have Alex and Hannah gone. We miss them. We had gotten a bit used to Alex being gone to BYU... but Hannah's never left the nest before and it's been only a month... and a bit hard. And why would we be willing to be without both of our beautiful daughters this Christmas... and one for next? THIS is why!
This is the Reason for the Season... and they are spreading that Joy! We have a sure knowledge of the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. They are losing themselves in service to others. What more could a mother want than to have a child dedicated to God, the Savior and serving others. So when I feel a bit gloomy and am missing my lovely daughters I just remember what good they are doing. Our family is really blessed by both of them serving!
This video is another Christmas treat...and one of my favorite Christmas songs. The Piano Guys are so talented!
I want to extend a wish to you all that you have a most wonderful and Merry CHRISTmas! And for those of you reading this that might have visited with my daughters on their missions and shown them the abundant love that they've spoken of... THANK YOU!
Thank you for once again poppying by... you really all are friends and I am thankful for you!
ps... if you do happen to run into Sister Johnson or Hermana Johnson while your out and about please give them a hug from me!


Calling all student writers!
America Media is proud to announce the 2020 Generation Faith Essay Contest.
America Media is seeking submissions from young writers for this year's Generation Faith Essay Contest. We want to hear from high school and college students interested in reflecting on the joys and challenges that come with living out (or struggling with) one's faith in the midst of real life. All entries should be true personal essays, between 800 and 1,200 words.
The essays should feature strong narratives and real-life examples from the writer’s experience as a young person in the church today. Writers should think creatively and broadly about their faith experience.
The winning entry will be awarded $1,000 and will be published in America. Additional entries may be chosen for publication in America. The judging panel will consist of the editors of America and The Jesuit Post.
To be eligible, you must be enrolled as a full-time high school or college student at the time of the contest deadline. Your submission must be previously unpublished (including on personal websites) and must be original work.
You can read a previous first-place essay here.
All entries must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2020.


South Tyrone Church Football League
The league was established in 2016 with 4 teams (Clonaneese Presbeterian, Pomeroy/Sandholes Presbyterian, Minterburn Presbyterian & Knockconny Baptist) participating in the first competition.
The main aim of the league is to share the gospel while enjoying a game of football together. We believe that Jesus lived perfectly, died and rose again so that we can be forgiven for our sins and live forever with God.
The teams play for the Stephen Moffett Memorial Shield. Stephen Moffett was a former player and a dedicated supporter of the Clonaneese Church Football Team. Stephen died suddenly in 2016 and the Clonaneese team felt it fitting to remember him by presenting the shield in his memory.
Image: The Moffett Family presenting the Sheild to League Representitives, John Condy, Jim Nelson & David Parr


Yoruba Audio Bible App is the 1st Audio Bible App in Yoruba Language for OLD TESTAMENT and New Testament. This Bilingual Yoruba and English TEXT version is completely OFFLINE BASED and the Audio files are also Downloadable from Genesisi to Ifihan for complete OFFLINE LISTENING so that you wont need to stream online anytime you want to listen to the bible from anywhere without using your internet. We are happy we can provide the Word of God for every yoruba speaking lover of the word from every parts of the world.
YorubaBible.net (http://www.yorubabible.net) gives you the great bible listening and reading experience without any reliability on your internet access anywhere and anytime.
The Yoruba Audio Bible App includes both Old Testament and New Testament version with great audio quality and a SWITCH BUTTON that allows you to read the Bible in either Yoruba or English Language while you keep listening to the Yoruba Audio.
— FEATURES OF THE YORUBA AUDIO BIBLE APP —
* No Internet us Required to Read Bible Text at all
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* ATOKA Yoruba Bible Version – Headings and Subheadings Included
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* Proper Amin Yoruba and correct Audio Pronunciation
* Share Bible Verses on Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp etc
* Drama Interactive great audio quality and correct pronunciation.
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* Increase or Reduce font size to desired sight level
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Our Mission on YorubaBible.Net is to provide every Yoruba bible lover from every parts of the world a mobile friendly bible that makes the old testament and new testament yoruba bible easy to read and understand. We are a group of Bible Loving Youths striving for a cross platform access to the yoruba bible on all devices and web browsers both online and offline.
— JOIN YORUBABIBLE.NET COMMUNITY —
We encourage you to support us in the improvement of our app by sending us your corrections, comments, suggestions, questions and feedbacks at firstname.lastname@example.org
Like Us on Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/yorubaaudiobible/
For more information about who we are and reading our online version of the bible, visit our website www.yorubabible.net
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YorubaBible.net, a Mobile App dedicated to the propagation of the gospel is powered by straleo LLC which is a Tax Deductible company in USA and Nigeria.


"The people who were there--what a beautiful, open, committed group! An honor to share in this."
Cultivating Compassion on the River Contemplative Retreat
Cost: USD$375, includes transportation to the retreat center, seven meals, and two nights’ accommodations in a single room with individual sinks, desks, chairs, and reading lamps. There are separate toilet and shower facilities for women and men. Additional guestrooms will be available a short distance from the retreat location at the Saint John’s Abbey Guesthouse (single rooms with private baths).
The contemplative retreat begins with a midday meal on Tuesday, April 16, and concludes on Thursday, April 18, after the midday meal. Return transportation is on your own; return to the MSP airport will be facilitated during the retreat.
Join Reverend Ward Bauman at the Episcopal House of Prayer for an opportunity to process the rich and varied experiences of the conference and to integrate our learning. This contemplative retreat will provide space to discern God’s voice, both within you and in the world; provide guidance in the search for wisdom; teach forms of contemplative prayer; and offer training in the inner work of spiritual life.
Susan Sink will lead the group in an Introduction to The Saint John's Bible presentation and tour of the current exhibit. In a multi-media presentation, we will explore the techniques, themes, and process behind the creation of this first illuminated, hand-written bible on vellum in five hundred years. Following the presentation, the group will tour the exhibition of original pages from The Saint John’s Bible with attention to particular illuminations.
The House of Prayer is located on the Saint John’s University campus which is the home of the Saint John's Illuminated Bible. In 1998, Saint John's Abbey and University commissioned renowned calligrapher Donald Jackson to produce a hand-written, hand-illuminated Bible. Susan Sink will lead a time to explore this work of art that unites an ancient Benedictine tradition with the technology and vision of today, illuminating the Word of God for a new millennium.
The Episcopal House of Prayer and its Oratory are a blend of wood, glass, and stone, designed to evoke an experience of solitude and awareness of God’s presence. It is situated on five acres of wooded land provided by Saint John’s Abbey, a Roman Catholic Benedictine abbey in Collegeville, Minnesota.
Ward Bauman is an ordained Episcopal priest and director of the Episcopal House of Prayer in Collegeville and Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Originally from California, he has traveled the world spiritually and physically, living in Iran for many years where he studied Sufism and Buddhism. He is the author of Sacred Food for Soulful Living and co-author of The Luminous Gospels. He considers his spiritual mentor to be the great Christian German mystic Meister Eckhart. Working with people in the great spiritual dimensions of their lives is his motivation.
Susan Sink is a poet and writer, author of Habits, The Way of All the Earth and three volumes of The Art of The Saint John’s Bible: A Reader’s Guide. She is also the administrator of the Episcopal House of Prayer.
Cultivating Compassion on the River
April 11: Leadership Institute
April 11: Spirituality and Health Care Institute
April 12: Free Community Event
April 12-14: Conference
April 13, 14: Field Trip
April 15: Pilgrimage
April 16-18: Contemplative Retreat


Members of the Russian Orthodox Church have this week cancelled a joint summit with the Finnish Lutheran Church over a disagreement between the two churches regarding their stance on LGBT rights.
Archbishop Kari Mäkinen of the Finnish Lutheran’s claims the Russian Orthodox Church demanded that he sign a statement condemning gays and lesbians in advance of the planned event.
Archbishop Mäkinen refused and stated that he would not attend the summit, which was planned to be on the subject of Christianity and anthropology.
Talking later to press the Archbishop said “[our church] doesn’t directly condemn homosexuality”.
The Russian Orthodox Church has always held strong anti-gay views and in the past has been a large supporter of Russia’s ban on ‘homosexual propaganda’. Members of the church have often spoken out against homosexuals and alternative lifestyles within Russia.
Despite the Finnish Lutheran’s refusal to accept the Russian Orthodox Church’s homophobic views they have stated that they wish to continue cooperating with their Russian counterparts in the future.
The Finnish Lutheran church is the official state church of Finland and receives large support from state taxes. Although gay marriage is illegal in Finland LGBT people living in the country are protected by a number of anti-discrimination laws and LGBT individuals are much more accepted than in Russia.


We invite your family to celebrate with our family this Christmas Eve. Each year we come together in worship with hope and joy to celebrate the gift of Jesus Christ through message, song and communion. FaithLink Family Service at 3:00PM in Emmett Hook Center and Candlelight Traditional Service at 5:30 & 7:30PM in the sanctuary. We hope you’ll join us.
Get out your guns, and get ready for the season with this fun time of fellowship. Last year we raised over $14,000 for the David Toms Foundation, The Methodist Children’s Home, the Allendale Friendship House, and other local missions. There are a wide range of sponsorship levels so that you and your company can help children in need in our local area. The First UMC/David Toms Sporting Clays Tournament is a great opportunity to get ready for hunting season and will be held at the Los Paloma Sporting Range & Event Center. Teams will consist of 5 shooters and the cost includes a great brunch! There will also be a silent auction at the tournament. Players will need to bring a 12 or 20 guage shotgun along with about 125 shells and eye/ear protection. Minors must be accompanied by a parent! The tournament will benefit various local charities as well as the David Toms Foundation. Registration begins at 7:30 AM the day of the tournament. The tournament begins at 8:30 AM and ends around 12:30 PM. We hope to see you there!
|1 (5) Person Team||$500.00|
|Golf Cart Rental||$100.00|


Today I dedicate this post to my Mommy! Yes I still call her Mommy! I am who I am because of who she is. She is such a free spirit, always evolving into something more beautiful than before.
I am proud of her in so many ways! She is writing a book about her life and what a life she has had but the awesome thing about her, is that through it all she continued to trust God and taught me to do the same. I think the biggest mistakes some parents make is hiding the truth from their children, kids find out anyways! My mom was the opposite, if she wanted to cry she would, if she was angry we knew it but in those moments she would always turn to God. We would join hands and pray and believe God and He would show up EVERY TIME!
She is the reason I know God, the reason I know to trust Him in every storm, the reason I am who I am. She allowed me to grow freely in who I am.
I love writing and sharing my life mainly because she taught me that! She writes poetry and is always asked to do speaking engagements! And funny because so many people look at her one-sided but I have had the pleasures of seeing every side of her! And I know that God gave her to me!
She writes me love notes and the funny thing is, I would always write her little notes as a child. And in her book she is including a lot of things me and my siblings have written to her.
Just last week, I found this picture she gave me. It’s now hanging in my room!
If you don’t have anything to give people, give them your words and your love, those are the things that last in life!
Love you Mommy,
Ms. Karen Minor-2nd Born


DIOCESE OF ROCKVILLE CENTRE
MARCH FOR LIFE
News & More
A Message from the National March for Life
Written by Art O'Brien
Respect Life Leader
St Joseph’s, Garden City
Get Ready for Events During January 2023!
Please visit this site regularly to keep up with events scheduled across the Diocese of Rockville Centre and help for planning your own pilgrimage.
What is the March for Life in Washington D.C.?
The March for Life in Washington D.C. began as a grassroots response of pro-lifers nationwide to Roe v. Wade, the 1973 Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion throughout the 9 months of a woman’s pregnancy. Each year, inspired by the Holy Spirit’s gift of Reverence, Catholics and all people of good will come together at our Nation’s Capital to pray and publicly intercede on behalf of the unborn, their parents, families, our communities, our nation and its leaders – that this prayerful presence may open hearts, minds, souls to the fullness of the Gospel of Life in our lives and laws.


I am sitting at home thinking about Christmas past and it was significantly different than what I see my children and grandchildren experiencing today. I grew up in a family that was poor, at least our Dad convinced us we were but we were less poor than many of our cousins and friends in the neighborhood. Christmas for us was being in the church performance as some member of the nativity. We had to learn songs and presentations and bible verses. Christmas eve was always church and we received a bag with a candy cane, hard candy and mixed nuts(not the kind that are shelled). Christmas morning was one present, something we had wished for all year, and a stocking filled with an apple, an orange and once again mixeed nuts. There were no ipads or computers, we played in the snow, visited cousins, aunts, uncles and grandpa and grandmas. Our play was outside in the snow with a sled or ice skates. Christmas eve was at Grandpa and Grandma Sanborn’s usually with Alaskan King Crab and Midnight Mass. Christmas day was home in the morning and then off to Foxhome to be with all my mom’s family. It was incredible and we usually had to perform a song and gifts were exchanged. We drew names and set a limit but the gifts were somehow always amazing.
Christmas for my children will be a cruise with my oldest son’s wifes family and her brother’s family. Then they will spend Christmas at home for the first time in many years. Usually they spent it with me in Orlando but the grandchildren are getting older and wanted to be home. I will drive up for Christmas morning. I’ll be working from the 14-24th in Miami so a bit of a drive. Presents for them are many and of course a very special large one from Santa. My Indiana son, youngest, his wife and daughter will spend Christmas at his home and leave the next day to drive to Orlando to spend a week with me. I am sure we will have some Park adventures while they are here.
So what does Christmas mean to me. An opportunity to spend time with family and yes, I still attend church. I still enjoy the mixed nuts even though I have to shell them, and I am incredibly grateful that my children and their children have good lives and wonderful families. Is there any better Christmas than that? Yes, friends, extended family though far away, an older sister I love dearly and just thankful for each day I look down and my feet are above ground. Life is good, Christmas is different but the love and caring will never change.