A Queen. A powerful business woman. A scholar.
These titles aren’t what you would expect to hear when you hear the phrase “Muslim woman”. However, the Islamic faith is rife with examples of women who defied the conventions of their time, and were praised for it. In fact, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) told us about 4 women in history who had perfected their faith, and were guaranteed Paradise, and among them were:
- a single mother
- a woman who defied her husband
- a businesswoman
- a daughter who was forced to grow up too soon
If you’re a Muslim, you’ve probably heard names like Mariam, Asiyah, Khadijah, Fatima, Aishah, Bilqist. But sometimes we get wrapped up in the history of these great figures and forget to see the very human side of these great women.
Girls today need strong role models. Ones that teach them that, no matter what situation you are in, you can make a difference without having to degrade yourself or trounce around naked. Role models that teach them that their value isn’t based on their sex appeal, but their inherent self-worth and passion.
The Quran and the Seerah (biography of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him) feature stories of many women who defied the conventions of their time. These women were so unique among all the women of their time that their legacies have been preserved in history.
Mary (Arabic, Mariam) is one of the 4 women that Prophet Muhammad said had perfected her faith and was guaranteed a place in Paradise. The important thing to note is that Mary is not revered simply because she was the mother of Jesus, peace be upon him, who became one of the greatest prophets to walk the earth. Mary is revered because she is amazing in and of herself. Her story is so significant that an entire surah of the Qur’an was named after her, and in Surah Mary, her early life is detailed up to the miraculous birth of her son, Jesus. Mary was known for her piety, and was chosen to be a living miracle: a virgin mother. She left her people when she was pregnant, and gave birth on her own in the middle of a desert. Walked back home where she was met with scorn and accusations. Mary was known for being a devout worshipper of God, and so her people found it strange that she would appear with a child. As soon as accusations started flying her way, she pointed at her newborn son and he responded, clearing her name. Not much is known about Mary’s life as she raised Jesus. What is known, however, is that her devotion to God and endurance through persecution remains a pinnacle of achievement to Muslims and Christians today.
Asiyah was the wife of Pharaoh, a baby-killing sociopath with a god-complex. When Moses was placed in the river, he washed ashore near Asiyah, who fell in love with the child. She convinced Pharaoh to let them keep the baby and raise it in their house. Eventually, that boy grew up to be a prophet, and Asiyah believed in his message. Pharaoh demanded that people worship him, considering himself a god. Yet Asiyah believed in the God of Moses. She kept her faith secret at first, but eventually it was exposed to the Pharaoh. Even though she knew of his cruelty, she defied her husband and held firmly to her belief. Pharaoh commanded her to be tortured, but she held fast to her belief. Eventually she succumbed to her torture, and died. Despite her death, she was considered one of the leading women of Paradise by Prophet Muhammad.
When Abraham was instructed by God to leave his wife Hajar and their son Ishmael in the baren valley of a desert, he did so. When Hajar asked why he was doing this, she asked if it was what God commanded. Abraham said yes, and said “I am leaving you in God’s care.” Despite the circumstances, Hajar said, “I am satisfied to be with God.”
With that she remained patient, even though she and her son were dying in the heat of the desert. When the dates and water ran out, she frantically began to search for water. She left baby Ishmael by a tree and climbed up and down the hills of Safa and Marwah, searching for water, among burning sand and rock. She did this seven times, a journey that would have taken hours. Finally, when she returned, she saw an angel standing by Ishmael, who dug into the ground and a well lept up. From there, she established a settlement around the water source, which became known as Zamzam—which still flows to this day. From there the city of Mecca had its beginnings. Hajar raised Ishmael in the settlement. Hajar’s struggle is commemorated by Muslims throughout the year, whether they are in Hajj or visiting for Umrah.
Bilqist was the Queen of Sheba, and was considered a powerful and just ruler. She ruled over modern day Yemen (though some accounts put her in Ethiopia). In the Qur’an she consulted with her advisors when Solomon asked her to abandon idolatry and embrace monotheism—Islam. Intimidated by a powerful ruler, she feared the oppression that usually comes when a ruler takes over a land. This demonstrates her wisdom and insight. Yet even still, she agreed to meet with Solomon. After Solomon convinced her of his prophethood and of God’s oneness, she abandoned idolatry and married Solomon. Yet even after this, she remained as the ruler of her country.
Khadijah was Prophet Muhammad’s first wife, before he was a prophet. Due to rare circumstances, she inherited a prosperous business from her father when he died. She was one of the wealthiest women in Mecca. She turned down many proposals of men who were only after her fortune. Eventually, she hired a young man to oversee a trade expedition to Syria—Muhammad (peace be upon him). Impressed with his character and honesty, she proposed to him. He accepted and they were married. They had 6 children, including Fatima. When revelation began, and the Prophet embraced his prophethood, Khadijah became the first person to embrace Islam. She supported her husband, emotionally and financially, through some of the most difficult years of his life. She never criticized is religious devotion or his mission, and instead devoted her fortune to supporting him and his ambitious mission. Her death marked the Year of Sorrow, one of the most difficult times in the Prophet’s life. After her death, the Prophet would still honour her friends and family and would remember her fondly.
Later, he would say of her: “”I have not yet found a better wife than her. She had faith in me when everyone, even members of my own family and tribe did not believe me, and accepted that I was truly a Prophet and a Messenger of Allah. She converted to Islam, spent all her wealth and worldly goods to help me spread this faith, and this too at a time when the entire world seemed to have turned against me and persecuted me. And it is through her that Allah blessed me with children.”
Fatima is the only daughter of Prophet Muhammad and Khadijah to live after her father’s death, albeit for a short time. That said, she was still crowned as one of the women of Paradise. Because of persecution, she was forced to grow up fast. She was only around 10 years old when she was scraping camel entrails off her father, which had been dumped on him by Quraishi men. After cleaning the entrails off, she stood her ground and scolded the grown men who did this to her father, and prayed against them. It wouldn’t be the first time that she was forced into situations beyond what a normal child would have to deal with. After the Prophet was driven out of Ta’if, a mob threw stones at him which caused him to bleed so much that his shoes became soaked with blood. Fatima, still a child at the time, cleaned her father’s wounds herself. Fatima gave away food to the poor, even if it meant going hungry herself. Her kind character resulted in the title “Al-Batul”, meaning The Pure One. During the Battle of Uhud and the Battle of the Trench, she tended to the wounds of the soldiers and prepared food for them.
Fatima was the only child to establish a lineage to Prophet Muhammad, through her two sons, Hasan and Hussein. As he was dying, he said that she would be the first to meet him in Paradise, and that she would be the leader of the believing women therein.
Aishah was known as a woman whose qualities surpassed those of men. She had a keen intellect, a strong memory, a fierce personality and a beautiful countenance.
She was haughty and stubborn at times, but was considered the most beloved to the Prophet. Whether they were racing along the sand dunes of Arabia, watching sword dancers perform in the mosque or sharing quiet intimate meals with each other, it is through Aisha that we gain most of the insights into the home life of the Prophet.
Among many incidents in her life, one in particular was a test of her moral character. She was accused of adultery based on slander and gossip. She knew herself that she was innocent, but even the people closest to her began to question her integrity. For a month rumours spread about her. The Prophet, though anxious about this situation, encouraged her by saying that if she was innocent, God would declare her innocent; if she was guilty, then he encouraged her to repent. Finally, in front of the Prophet and her own parents, Aisha stood her ground and said:
“You have all heard something about me and believed it. Now if I say that I am innocent – and Allah is my witness that I am innocent – you will not believe me; and if I confess something which I never did – and Allah knows that I never did it – you will believe me. I cannot but repeat the words which the father of Prophet Yousuf (Joseph) had spoken: ‘fa-sabrun jamil’: I will bear this patiently with good grace.”
And at that, the Prophet received revelation that she was, in fact innocent. Verses 11 to 21 of Surah Noor (the 24th chapter) attest to her innocence to this day.
The Prophet loved her the most, and spent his last moments in her arms. As is tradition of all prophets, he was buried where he died, in the house of Aishah. After the death of the Prophet, she became a primary source of wisdom and knowledge. Her house also became a school and a place of knowledge. She championed the education of women, teaching many of them personally. If any of the Companions of the Prophet had a religious disagreement or difficulty, they would go to Aisha to resolve it. Even today, her legal judgments, her statements, and her accounts of the Prophet are studied by scholars today. Her speeches were powerful and eloquent. She was at the forefront of social reform and justice.
It’s unfortunate that people stereotype Muslim women as quiet, shy, unremarkable home-bound servants. It’s even more unfortunate when Muslims also believe that stereotype. The belief that a woman’s only worth is to produce children is both backwards and harmful. Islam has a rich history of strong women who stood against oppression, made their voices known and changed the attitudes of the society they lived in. Their courage and personalities were not hampered by their religion; in fact they was encouraged by it. For over 1400 years, the women mentioned above—and many more—have retained their honour in history. Their example is just as relevant today as it was during their time. In an age where strong, dignified female role models are hard to come by, sometimes we forget that some of the greatest women who ever lived can be found right on our own bookshelves.


Urdu Poetry is a dominant cultural heritage that takes its roots from India and Pakistan. Several well-known Urdu poets are famous not only in India and Pakistan but in all over the world where there is a Muslim community.
Many poems written by great Urdu Poets are translated into other languages and some are not just converted into another language but into another genre as well. Many ghazals or love poems communicating the feelings of the Urdu Poets are translated into songs and sung world wide.
One great example of an Urdu Poem that is translated into another form is the patriotic song Saare Jahan Se Achcha. This is still being sung today in India and other Muslim communities outside of India.
Popular Urdu Poets
Many Urdu poets are not just known for their poem and letters but some of them even entered the world of politics.
In here, you may find a short list of well-loved Urdu Poets and the very same people who shaped Urdu as a language and literary masterpiece.
Famous Urdu Poet 1- Mir Taqi Mir
His real name is Mohammad Taqi but Mir is his takhallus and thus, he became known to many as Mir Taqi Mir.
While there are several Urdu Poets that came before him, it was believed that Mir Taqi Mir is the person who shaped Urdu as a language.
Mir Taqi Mir is born in Agra but lived his life mostly in Delhi where he was known as Khuda-e-Sikhan, in English it means God of Poetry.
He pioneered ghazals, which are poems communicating love to a beloved.
He has a colorful past and these may be traced in his Urdu Poems and Verses.
Famous Urdu Poet 2- Mirza Ghalib
His real name is Mirza Asadullah Baig Khan. He initially used Asad as a takhallus or pen name but a copycat whose work he does not like used the takhallus Asad and thus Mirza Ghalib changed his takhallus into Ghalib. Now, he is known in many of his works as Mirza Ghalib.
Mirza Ghalib is not just a well-loved Urdu Poet but Persian Poet as well.
He is known to be one of the famous contemporaries of Mir Taqi Mir. He is likewise known for his Ghazals. He writes conversational poems for the beloved but in his poems, the personality of the beloved are not specified. It may be either a women, a man or God.
This made his Urdu works interesting and thus he became known as the most popular and influential poet of the Urdu language.
Famous Urdu Poet 3- Allama Muhammad Iqbal
Allama Sir Muhammad Iqbal is a popular Urdu Poet, a philosopher and politician. He is well-educated and even has his master’s degree.
Allama Sir Muhammad Iqbal is a well known figure in Lahore serving as a member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly and later on as president of the Muslim League in 1930.
While serving for the government and his legal practice, Muhammad Iqbal did not stop writing Urdu poems. He is likewise writing in Persian and many of his works have European translations as well.
Several Public Institutions are named after Allama Iqbal in Lahore and he is even a figure in a Pakistani currency.
Famous Urdu Poet 4- Faiz Ahmed Faiz
Faiz Ahmed Faiz is a revolutionary Pakistani Poet who is considered to be the most famous modern Urdu Poet.
Faiz Ahmed Faiz is a supporter of the Communist Party of Pakistan. He also served as Editor of Pakistani Times and other publications. In this position, he was able to promote the cause of communism.
Because of this, he was sentenced to a four year imprisonment for the case Rawalpindi Conspiracy. His imprisonment made him experience the harsh realities of life and used this time to writer several of his well-loved works.
These Urdu works of Faiz Ahmed Faiz gave him the Lenin Peace Award and later on a nomination in the Nobel Prize.
Famous Urdu Poet 5- Ahmed Faraz
His real name is Syed Ahmad Shah. He is another revolutionary Urdu poet. He is known to be a revolutionary poet as many of his poems are used in protests.
He is a master of Urdu and Persian language and even has taught the languages in the Peshawar University.
The outspoken characteristic of Ahmed Faraz may be traced when he was arrested for reciting poems in the mushaira criticizing the military rule. As a result, Ahmed Faraz went on a self imposed exile for 6 years.
Upon his return, things have not changed and he continued to write his revolutionary poems.
There are other Urdu poets and many of them would get their inspirations to the famous Urdu masters.


BONHOEFFER: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy
Who better to face the greatest evil of the 20th century than a humble man of faith?
As Adolf Hitler and the Nazis seduced a nation, bullied a continent, and attempted to exterminate the Jews of Europe, a small number of dissidents and saboteurs worked to dismantle the Third Reich from the inside. One of these was Dietrich Bonhoeffer—a pastor and author, known as much for such spiritual classics as The Cost of Discipleship and Life Together, as for his 1945 execution in a concentration camp for his part in the plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler.
In the first major biography of Bonhoeffer in forty years, New York Times best-selling author Eric Metaxas takes both strands of Bonhoeffer’s life—the theologian and the spy—and draws them together to tell a searing story of incredible moral courage in the face of monstrous evil. In a deeply moving narrative, Metaxas uses previously unavailable documents—including personal letters, detailed journal entries, and firsthand personal accounts—to reveal dimensions of Bonhoeffer’s life and theology never before seen.
In Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy—A Righteous Gentile vs. the Third Reich, Metaxas presents the fullest accounting of Bonhoeffer’s heart-wrenching 1939 decision to leave the safe haven of America for Hitler’s Germany, and using extended excerpts from love letters and coded messages written to and from Bonhoeffer’s Cell 92, Metaxas tells for the first time the full story of Bonhoeffer’s passionate and tragic romance.
Readers will discover fresh insights and revelations about his life-changing months at the Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem and about his radical position on why Christians are obliged to stand up for the Jews. Metaxas also sheds new light on Bonhoeffer’s reaction to Kristallnacht, his involvement in the famous Valkyrie plot and in “Operation 7,” the effort to smuggle Jews into neutral Switzerland.
Bonhoeffer gives witness to one man’s extraordinary faith and to the tortured fate of the nation he sought to deliver from the curse of Nazism. It brings the reader face to face with a man determined to do the will of God radically, courageously, and joyfully—even to the point of death. Bonhoeffer is the story of a life framed by a passion for truth and a commitment to justice on behalf of those who face implacable evil.
“Silence in the face of evil is itself evil: God will not hold us guiltless. Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.” — DIETRICH BONHOEFFER
PRAISE FOR BONHOEFFER: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy — A Righteous Gentile vs. the Third Reich
“A welcome new biography of one of the 20th century’s leading lights. Metaxas magnificently captures the life of theologian and anti-Nazi activist Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945), who ‘thought it the plain duty of the Christian—and the privilege and honor—to suffer with those who suffered.’ In the finest treatment of the man since Eberhard Bethge’s Dietrich Bonhoeffer: Man of Vision, Man of Courage (1970), Metaxas presents a complete, accessible picture of this important figure, whose story is inspiring, instructive and international in scope. …A definitive Bonhoeffer biography for the 21st century.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Eric Metaxas tells Bonhoeffer’s story with passion and theological sophistication, often challenging revisionist accounts that make Bonhoeffer out to be a ‘humanist’ or ethicist for whom religious doctrine was easily disposable. In Bonhoeffer we meet a complex, provocative figure: an orthodox Christian who, at a grave historical moment, rejected what he called ‘cheap grace’—belief without bold and sacrificial action…. Metaxas reminds us that there are forms of religion—respectable, domesticated, timid—that may end up doing the devil’s work for him.” – The Wall Street Journal
“For anyone whose faith has been strengthened by the life and witness of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, this is the biography you have always wanted. Eric Metaxas has written a rich, detailed, and beautiful account of the great pastor and theologian who gave us The Cost of Discipleship and sacrificed his life for opposing Hitler. Metaxas’ Bonhoeffer is a monumental achievement and a deeply important work.” — Greg Thornbury, PhD, Dean of the School of Christian Studies at Union University
“A captivating and inspiring read from start to finish. Sets the record straight on Bonhoeffer’s commitment to Scripture and his unyielding passion for truth that led him to give up his life in the battle to save the Jews of Europe. Buy it. This book could change your life.” – James N. Lane, Founder, New Canaan Society; Former General Partner, Goldman, Sachs & Co.
“Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s great gift is that his understanding of faith in times of conflict speaks to generation after generation. Eric Metaxas’ Bonhoeffer is the biography for this generation. A masterpiece that reads like a great novel and weaves together in one opus an understanding of Bonhoeffer’s theology, the complex and tragic history of 20th century Germany, and the human struggle of a true Christian hero. Eric Metaxas is claiming his place as the preeminent biographer of Christianity’s most courageous figures.” — Martin Doblmeier, Filmmaker, BONHOEFFER
“With great skill, energy, and warmth, Metaxas reminds us why the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer stands as a rebuke both to believers and skeptics. Rarely has the story of a Christian martyr been told with such realism and depth. It’s a gem of a book.” — Joseph Loconte, Lecturer in Politics, The King’s College, New York City; Editor of The End of Illusions: Religious Leaders Confront Hitler’s Gathering Storm
“A stunning achievement recounting Bonhoeffer’s life with lucidity, historical detail, and a concretely contextualized handling of Bonhoeffer’s often misunderstood theological legacy. …Metaxas masterfully distills Bonhoeffer’s eventful and complex life into a true narrative biography that is comprehensive and vivid without being overwhelming.” – Matthew Miller, Christianbook.com


by yossi | May 17, 2017 7:07 am
This niggun was composed in memory of the holy Piaseczna Rebbe (Rav Kalonymus Kalman Shapira). He was named after his great grandfather, the Maor Vashemesh (Rav Kalonymus Kalman Epstein) who was the Rebbe of Krakow (and hence a hint to the Krakow niggun).
The Piaseczna Rebbe inspired thousands of people during the darkest times of the holocaust. He brought hope and light to everyone around him and inspired so many to serve Hashem (God) with simcha (happiness).
This music video is meant for educational purposes, namely to tell the story of the Piaseczna Rebbe. All known sources have been referenced.
Source URL: http://www.thejewishinsights.com/wp/derech-achim-piaseczna-niggun/
Copyright ©2020 Jewish Insights


Full-featured mixed-signal simulation
Allegro AMS Simulator provides complete pre- and post-layout testing for analog and mixed-signal designs with powerful simulation, debugging, design, and analysis utilities.
Cadence® Allegro® AMS Simulator includes PSpice® technology at the core, providing fast and accurate simulations. This Advanced Analysis package includes utilities for sensitivity analysis, goal-based multi-parameter optimization, component stress and reliability analysis, and Monte Carlo analysis for yield estimation. The parametric plotter analyzes interdependence among parameters and converts simulation data into meaningful results. When combined with Allegro Design Entry HDL, the schematics drawn in AMS Simulator can also drive PCB layout—significantly reducing design time and eliminating redrawing errors. It includes a large library of known models and behavioral modeling techniques that make refining the analog/digital interface a straightforward task.
- Provides fast, accurate analysis of analog and mixed-signal designs
- Integrates seamlessly with Allegro Design Entry HDL
- Performs AC, DC, noise, transient, and parameter sweep analyses
- Includes magnetic parts editor for transformer and inductor design
- Utilizes a large inventory of accurate internal models with temperature effects
- Describes functional blocks using editable behavioral models
- Includes library of more than 20,000 known devices and components
- Provides automatic circuit optimizer to increase performance
- Performs circuit sensitivity, component stress, and productive yield analyses
- Interfaces with MATLAB Simulink for advanced electrical modeling


A website for reading the Bible in multiple translations. Audio features are available so you can follow along as the Bible is read to you. Also there are multiple reading plans available for reading the whole or parts of the Bible over a set period of time.
YouVersion Bible App
Download this app to your mobile device to read the Bible in multiple translations. Some translations can be downloaded in the app to be read offline. The app offers many other features including verse-of-the-day, reading plans, and daily devotionals.
The Bible Project
This website features a broad library of animated videos for each book of the Bible as well as Bible themes. There is also a resources page with free downloads of posters, study notes, and reading plans.
Christian Standard & The Lookout
The principal magazine connecting Restoration congregations with articles, lessons, and resources.
Sermon Follow-Up Archive
Access the sermon follow-ups from previous months.
Paul Nichols Archive
Access the past sermons, PowerPoint, and newsletters of Paul Nichols - preacher at the Church of Christ in Eaton from 2009-2023.


Research Computing >> Software >> Other software
OTHER SOFTWARE PACKAGES
This page provides a brief decription and links to software packages used by some of Kellogg's faculty and doctoral students.
- IMSL version 3.0, a FORTRAN Mathematics and Statistics library is available in some hosts of the DCE/DFS system. It is installed with a single-user license. The vendor, Visual Numerics, has the documentation online
- EViews, from Quantitative Micro Software. A graphical object-oriented econometrics package with emphasis in time series.
- MathType, an add-in to Microsoft Word that replaces the Equation Editor with enhanced capabilities.
- PrimoPDF, a free PDF converter for MS Windows (based on AFPL Ghostscript)
- Ox, an object-oriented matrix language with syntax similar to the C, C++ and Java languages. The "console" version of Ox is free for academic research use and is available for Windows, as well as Linux and Unix operating systems. It is installed in the Social Science Computing Cluster.
- QSR International (Nvivo): Content analysis, code-based qualitative analysis.
- TDA (Transition Data Analysis), a software for Event History Analysis. Available as freeware.
- UCINET: For analysis of actor by actor social network data. The DOS version (version IV) can be downloaded for free.
- Vensim: For development and analysis of dynamic feedback models.
- XY Chart Labeler, a free Excel add-in to add labels to the observations in a scatter plot. After installation, look for the add-in file in "Program Files > AppsPro".


Scott Anderson, Fractured Lands: How the Arab World Came Apart. The New York Times Magazine, 11 August 2016. “Beginning in April 2015, the photographer Paolo Pellegrin and I embarked on a series of extended trips to the Middle East. Separately and as a writer-photographer team, we had covered an array of conflicts in the region over the previous 20 years, and our hope on this new set of journeys was to gain a greater understanding of the so-called Arab Spring and its generally grim aftermath. As the situation continued to deteriorate through 2015 and 2016, our travels expanded: to those islands in Greece bearing the brunt of the migrant exodus from Iraq and Syria; to the front lines in northern Iraq where the battle against ISIS was being most vigorously waged.
We have presented the results of this 16-month project in the form of six individual narratives, which, woven within the larger strands of history, aim to provide a tapestry of an Arab World in revolt.”


The Ultimate Guide to Casino Fun
Table of Contents
Welcome to the ultimate guide to casino fun! Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a curious beginner, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about the exciting world of casinos. From the rich history of gambling to the latest online casino trends, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and explore the thrilling realm of casinos!
The Rich History of Casinos
Step back in time and discover the fascinating origins of casinos. From ancient civilizations to modern-day establishments, the evolution of gambling will leave you amazed. Uncover the secrets behind the first gambling houses and how they shaped the casino industry we know today.
1. Ancient Beginnings
Explore the roots of gambling in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China. Discover the various games played and the cultural significance of gambling in these societies.
2. The Birth of Casinos
Learn about the emergence of the first casinos in Europe and their transformation into glamorous entertainment venues. Discover the famous gambling hotspots throughout history and the legendary characters that frequented them.
Popular Casino Games
Get ready to play! In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the most popular casino games that you can find in both physical and online casinos. From classic card games to thrilling slot machines, there’s something for everyone.
1. Blackjack: Beat the Dealer
Master the art of blackjack and learn how to beat the dealer. We’ll guide you through the rules, strategies, and tips to increase your chances of winning in this timeless card game.
2. Roulette: The Wheel of Fortune
Spin the wheel and experience the thrill of roulette. Discover the different types of roulette and the betting options available. We’ll also share some strategies to help you make the most out of your roulette sessions.
3. Slot Machines: Jackpots and Fun
Enter the world of slot machines and chase those exciting jackpots. Learn about the different types of slot machines and how to maximize your chances of hitting the big win. We’ll also explore the latest trends in slot machine technology.
Looking to improve your chances of winning? In this section, we’ll share some effective strategies for popular casino games. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these tips will help you make smarter decisions and increase your odds of success.
1. Bankroll Management
Discover the importance of proper bankroll management and how it can help you avoid unnecessary losses. We’ll provide you with practical tips to ensure you’re gambling responsibly and maximizing your playing time.
2. Card Counting in Blackjack
Uncover the secrets of card counting in blackjack and how it can give you an edge over the casino. We’ll explain the basic principles of card counting and provide you with some easy-to-use techniques.
Casino Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts
Before stepping foot into a casino, it’s essential to understand the proper etiquette. In this section, we’ll outline the do’s and don’ts of casino behavior, ensuring you have a pleasant and respectful gaming experience.
1. Dress Code
Learn about the dress codes in different types of casinos, from casual to formal establishments. We’ll provide you with tips on how to dress appropriately for your casino visit.
2. Handling Money and Chips
Master the art of handling money and chips at the casino table. We’ll teach you the proper techniques for buying chips, making bets, and cashing out your winnings.
The Rise of Online Casinos
In recent years, online casinos have become increasingly popular. In this section, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of online gambling and provide you with tips for a safe and enjoyable online casino experience.
1. Convenience and Accessibility
Discover the convenience of online casinos and how they allow you to play your favorite games from the comfort of your own home. We’ll also discuss the accessibility of online casinos and the devices you can use to access them.
2. Security and Fairness
Learn about the security measures implemented by online casinos to protect your personal and financial information. We’ll also delve into the topic of fairness and how online casinos ensure that their games are not rigged.
Casino Rewards Programs
Get rewarded for your loyalty! Many casinos offer rewards programs to incentivize players. In this section, we’ll explain how these programs work and how you can make the most of your casino visits.
1. Loyalty Points and Tier Systems
Learn about the different types of loyalty points and tier systems offered by casinos. We’ll guide you through the benefits of each level and how you can earn and redeem your rewards.
2. Complimentary Services and Perks
Discover the complimentary services and perks you can enjoy as a loyal casino player. From free drinks to exclusive event invitations, these perks add an extra layer of excitement to your casino experience.
Top Tips for Casino Goers
Ready to hit the casino floor? In this section, we’ll share some valuable tips to enhance your casino experience. From managing your time to staying focused, these tips will help you make the most out of your visit.
1. Set a Budget
Before entering the casino, set a budget for your gambling activities. We’ll provide you with tips on how to stick to your budget and avoid overspending.
2. Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated
Don’t forget to take breaks and stay hydrated during your casino visit. We’ll explain why it’s important to give yourself some downtime and how it can positively impact your overall experience.
Casino Safety Measures
Your safety is of utmost importance. In this section, we’ll discuss the safety measures implemented by casinos to ensure a secure environment for players. From surveillance systems to responsible gambling initiatives, we’ll cover it all.
1. Security Personnel and Surveillance
Learn about the security personnel and surveillance systems in place at casinos to maintain a safe environment. We’ll explore the behind-the-scenes operations that protect both players and the casino itself.
2. Responsible Gambling Initiatives
Discover the responsible gambling initiatives undertaken by casinos to promote a healthy gambling environment. We’ll discuss the resources available for players who may need assistance and how to recognize signs of gambling addiction.
As we come to the end of our ultimate guide to casino fun, we hope you’ve gained valuable insights into the world of casinos. Whether you choose to visit a physical casino or explore the virtual realm of online gambling, remember to gamble responsibly and have fun!


During the 2022 Privacy Symposium that was held in Venice between 17-21 April 2022, representatives of CyberSec4Europe participated in an all-day workshop, the proceedings of which have been published by Springer Cham in the series, Communications in Computer and Information Science (https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-36096-1).
For participants in the conference, Springer is making the book available for free download until 16 August 2023!
The book is entitled Digital Sovereignty in Cyber Security: New Challenges in Future Vision with the subtitle, First International Workshop, CyberSec4Europe 2022, Venice, Italy, April 17–21, 2022, Revised Selected Papers. The editors are Antonio Skarmeta and Sara Matheu from the University of Murcia and Antonio Lioy and Daniele Canavese from the Politecnico di Torino.
The book constitutes papers presented during the workshop session titled “CyberSec4Europe – Research to Innovation: Common Research Framework on Security and Privacy” during the 2022 Privacy Symposium hosted by Università Ca’ Foscari in Venice in April 2022.
The 11 peer-reviewed selected papers present findings, conclusions, research, and recommendations in various security-related areas, from highly technical ones (e.g., software and network security) to law and human-centric ones (e.g., governance and cybersecurity awareness).
For a free download, please go to: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-36096-1


Peter Holsapple, Pt. 1
Episode 39, Caropop with Mark Caro
You may have seen Peter Holsapple playing live with R.E.M. or Hootie and the Blowfish, but you should know his own music. He co-led and then led the dB's, delivering such smart, tuneful songs as "Black and White," "Big Brown Eyes," "Living a Lie," "Neverland," "Amplifier" and "Love Is for Lovers." He also played in the Continental Drifters, made three excellent duo albums with Chris Stamey, and has toured and recorded under his own name. In part one of our conversation, he recalls listening to Chicago's WCFL while growing up in North Carolina, describes the dB's beginnings and Stamey's departure, and offers deep insights and colorful stories about the creative life of a songwriter/musician.


What is NLoad?
NLoad is an open source performance and load testing framework for .NET used for testing Websites, WCF Services or small bits of code to identify and eliminate bottlenecks at an early stage of development.
To get started please read the Getting Started guide for instructions on using NLoad in your projects.
Easy to use
Simply install a NuGet package and start load testing
Customize load tests to your needs
Configure load tests using a simple Fluent API
Do you have feature requests, questions or would you like to report a bug? Please post them on the Issue List.
Any contribution is greatly appreciated. Simply fork NLoad repository on GitHub and create a pull request.
NLoad is a free and open source software, licensed under the terms of Apache 2.0 license.


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The Naomi Wolf speeches look at the many aspects of feminism and its role in society today. Wolf is an American author and political consultant.
In 1984, she achieved her Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Yale University, and was a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford in 1987.
In the early 1990s Wolf was a spokesperson for the third-wave feminism movement, which earned her international recognition. Her focus was predominantly on beauty and the pressure that women are subjected to in order to conform to fabricated societal standards.
Wolf authored several books including 'The Beauty Myth: How Images of Beauty are Used Against Women' in 1990, and 'Give Me Liberty: A Handbook for American Revolutionaries' in 2008.
The Naomi Wolf speeches are sure to inspire and provide insight into feminism around the globe.
Featured Keynote - Third Wave Feminism
Naomi Wolf Discusses the Current State of Feminism
In this interesting video talk with author Naomi Wolf, she describes the current state of feminism in what she calls "third wave feminism" and discusses what makes it different from prevailing ideologies… Read More


Planning for your library shelving
The school and college library plays an ever increasing role in shaping the future of our students. An attractive library space can create a destination for students, attracted by a modern library with new furnishings, learning materials, technology and services. It’s no secret that young people can be put off by the negative stereotypes of quiet, dingy libraries but now is the time to reconnect with your students and create modern, comfortable and welcoming library interiors with new furnishings and technology.
- Total book stock and other material or media i.e. magazines, DVDs, CDs etc.
- Consider age groups, number and types of readers - this will have a bearing on the height of shelving and furniture
- Number of study spaces - size and type and preferred layout i.e. table, single or group study carrels
- Mood - what sort of atmosphere are you trying to create?
Quite often the book stock will represent the largest single requirement for furniture i.e. the book shelving. As a guide:
- For children’s picture books allow approx. 60 titles per 900mm shelf length
- For general fiction/non-fiction approx. 30-35 books per 900mm shelf length
- In secondary schools and colleges, shelving may be taken up to 1800mm high, giving five shelves per bay. Having established the number of shelves and bays required, consider the types of shelving available to use:
- Wall Fixed Units - should only be used on solid walls. They have the advantage of being less expensive and can be fitted above radiators and heating pipes. However, they are not as easy to remove or relocate
- Wall Free-standing Units - can be used against solid or partition walls. Easily removed and relocated. Disadvantage - cannot be fitted around radiators or heating pipes
- Double-sided Island Units - provide compact, free-standing storage. The benefit of using Island Units is to allow easy access to material on both sides. Units can be placed in straight rows or positioned at angles to make effective use of space
- Mobile Island Units - should generally be no more than two bays long and four shelves high (1500mm). For safety, locking castors should always be fitted. These units provide complete flexibility and are perfect for multi-purpose rooms
Function and purpose
Identify the role of the library - is it just to act as a resource for books and learning; will it also be used as a class study centre; double up as a classroom or be an IT/learning centre? Consulting with users and those involved with the school can be very useful and will ensure that you create a library that is relevant as well as functional.
Get the right mood
The right furnishings, colour schemes and accessories can change a library at a glance. It should be a destination to study, to socialise with peers and to have some personal space to dip into, not only books but magazines, DVDs and lifestyle resources.
To discard the image of a library being predominantly quiet, think about creating:
- Areas or hubs for specific needs and uses
- Optional areas for quiet reading or study using study tables
- More relaxed, informal reading areas with magazine storage and display
- Comfortable, soft furnishings such as bean bags and sofas for students to relax
- Areas for class/group discussions with larger tables
- Music areas with comfortable seating for some personal space
- A space with some level of acceptable noise
This is a key time when young people are highly motivated to look for places to study, revise and get support and assistance on coursework from Tutors and Librarians. The school or college library can offer a place of privacy and quiet which may not be available at home or in the classroom.
When planning your library, think about the busy times and look at flexible layouts and furnishings that can be re-jigged to cope with extra demand. Consider furniture designed for easy stacking and storage when not in use. Screens can create temporary work space areas and give students and staff some valuable space.
Last but not least
Once you have your new library, don’t forget the everyday essentials such as good quality book supports to keep your book stock orderly and book coverings to extend the life of your collection.
Quality, durability and flexibility are as important as the costs being within budget. Free delivery is often available on orders over a certain amount and, remember, most furnishings are available in a range spanning from economy through to top end. With heavy student wear and tear, it may not always be economical to go for the cheapest option. Look for functionality, sustainability and overall value for


Welcome to the Green Hub! Green Calgary's not-for-profit EcoStore has been a cornerstone of Calgary's green community for over a decade, providing a wide range of eco-friendly products where all the proceeds go right back into providing innovative environmental programs to Calgarians! Our Green Hub is also the location of the Little Green Library, an environmental-focused lending library with a wide variety of books & dvds to help you on your green journey! Have a question about one of our products, services, or spaces? Please feel free to contact us at 403-230-1443 x222.


By Camilla Stockmann
And thus it happened. A local historian from Funen has found a hitherto unknown fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen called “The Tallow Candle” at the bottom of a 15 kilo archive box.
The discovery took place at the beginning of October at the National Archive for Funen in Odense, and for the past two months, one of Denmark’s leading Hans Christian Andersen experts, Ejnar Stig Askgaard of the Odense City Museum, has been studying the yellowed pages.
»This is a sensational discovery. Partly because it must be seen as Andersen’s first fairy tale, and partly because it shows that he was interested in the fairy tale as a young man, before his authorship began«, Askgaard says.
»And I am in no doubt that it has been written by Andersen«, he adds.
Was written by Andersen Another two of the country’s leading H.C. Andersen experts – Research Librarian Bruno Svindborg of the Royal Library and Prof. Johan de Mylius Ph. D. of the Andersen Centre and the University of Southern Denmark were presented with the fairy tale yesterday and agree that the text in all probability was written by Andersen.
While occasional poems written by Hans Christian Andersen pop up now and again, the last time that an important Andersen discovery was made in the archives was in the mid-1920s, when Hans Brix found the author’s memoirs at the Royal Library.
In literary terms, de Mylius and Askgaard say that The Tallow Candle is not at the level of the more mature and polished fairy tales that we know from Andersen’s later authorship. The tale is one from his youth, and probably from his time at school, with the tone of the work reminiscent of his time at the Latin School in Slagelse and Elsinore from 1822 to 1826.
Nonetheless, Askgaard says the document is an important one.
»It’s like a high to be able to work with his first attempt at a fairy tale. It was a great experience to read it for the first time«, Askgaard says.
Borrowed books from a woman
In particular the 190 year old pages throw light on the important personal relationship that Andersen as a boy had with the woman he gave the fairy tale to – a vicar’s widow Mme Bunkeflod.
Mme Bunkeflod lived in a home for respectable ladies and widows opposite Andersen’s childhood home. She was a woman Andersen visited, read for and borrowed books from as a child.
‘To Madam Bunkeflod from her devoted H.C. Andersen’, the front page of the document reads.
DOCUMENTATION Read The Tallow Candle in English
»It’s a wonderful little document as art of the history of Hans Christian Andersen. The fairy tale was a present. A present of thanks to a woman whose home had been very important to him«, Askgaard says.
Hans Christian Andersen’s literary debut came in 1829 and he was generally viewed as an important author by his 19th century contemporaries. He began writing his fairy tales in the mid-1830s, and it is these for which he is generally known, particularly in countries such as China and Japan. Andersen has been translated into some 125 languages, coming second only in the number of translations by the Bible.


Dictionaries, Thesauri, and Usage Resources|
Common Errors in English Usage
Paul Brians' book: 'Common Errors in English Usage' is available in most good book stores (ISBN 1-887902-89-9), or you can access the online version available from the home page: http://www.wsu.edu/~brians/errors/index.html.
The Everest Dictionary is compiled and maintained by Romanian software developer Daniel Vladutu, and is distributed as freeware.
The Everest dictionary is actually a collection of dictionaries, for multiple languages. Apart from the English standard dictionary, English database dictionaries include specialist dictionaries for antonyms, acronyms, holonyms, hypernyms and synonyms.
The interface and right-click menu from the system tray take a little getting used to, and there are a number of online resources that are easier to use, but - as an offline, portable specialist dictionary resource - the Everest Dictionary is extremely useful.
The Everest Dictionary can be downloaded from:
http://www.free-soft.ro/index-en.html. A list of mirror sites and dictionary database download sites is available at: http://www.free-soft.ro/download.html.
The UltraLingua dictionary/thesaurus is more suitable for those whose jobs are primarily related to writing and/or editing.
UltraLingua includes technical terms and slang, idiomatic expressions, pronunciation guides, a power search mode that allows wildcards and basic regular expression searching, the ability to search for usage examples on the Web, automatic verb conjugation, and in-built grammar references.
UltraLingua also allows you to customise the dictionary by adding your own entries.
Additional information and a trial version download are available from: http://www.ultralingua.com/en/dictionary/english-win.html
UltraLingua costs about US$30.
UltraLingua also has a Web service available at: http://www.ultralingua.net/
WordWeb is a nice dictionary/thesaurus tool that provides a wide range of definitions, synonyms, and related words.
WordWeb is extremely simple to use, and is suitable for all styles of writing. WordWeb is a useful tool for all writers and editors, but is most suitable to those for whom writing is a secondary task.
The WordWeb dictionary/thesaurus tool is provided as freeware from: http://wordweb.info/free/
A Pro version is available from the site and includes word finding, anagram, editing, vocabulary building, usage examples, usage tagging, and customisation features. WordWeb Pro costs AU$29 (without add-ins).
Online Dictionary and Thesaurus Resources
Bartleby.com: Great Books Online provides searchable access to a number of dictionaries and thesauri, as well as a large number of other reference and literary resources.
Search individual references from the home page: http://www.bartleby.com/. You can browse individual references, search all references at the same time, or filter your search to specific types of references, from: http://www.bartleby.com/reference/.
iTools provides a search interface to multiple dictionaries and thesauri at:
http://www.itools.com/lang/. This page also includes a search interface to specialist terminology online resources.
The Cambridge Dictionaries Online at: http://dictionary.cambridge.org/ cover British, American, and Australian English, and include idioms and phrasal verbs.
Dictionary.net at http://www.dictionary.net/ is a great, easy-to-use online resource. Search any word to bring up definitions, antonyms, quotes, usage examples, rhymes, and idioms. Thanks to Serge for the recommendation.
Links to other subject-specific dictionaries and thesauri can be found from:
Macquarie Dictionary and Thesaurus
While all dictionaries, thesauri, and other references are valuable for finding meanings and alternative words, the spelling (often American English) may not be consistent with Australian English.
Australian organisations often standardise on the Macquarie dictionary for spelling. The Macquarie dictionary/thesaurus maintains an online service at: http://www.macquariedictionary.com.au/ (subscription: AU$19.95).
Macquarie also has drag-and-drop-for-definition versions of its dictionary (AU$49.95) and thesaurus (AU$29.95) for sale from their Web site.
Jargon Busting Resources Plain English Alternatives for Jargon Words


A librarian at the reference desk is always available to assist students with MLA format for specific sources.
The library offers free classes (lasting 1.5 hrs.) in L126 in the library on MLA format. See the schedule on the web.
The library website has a sample research paper that students may use as a model. Also, the library maintains a web page with a variety of MLA examples.
Individual MLA handouts with examples are available in the library.
The library subscribes to NoodleTools, a citation generator, that is available to all students and teachers at Richland.
The Richland College Library Handbook is on the web and contains many pages of MLA examples.


A Critical Reflection on:
“…by the power of the Holy Spirit he was born of the Virgin Mary, and became man.”
The Nicene Creed is the profession of the Christian faith and contained within in it are all of the core beliefs of the faith. By proclaiming these words, the Christian is providing verbal assent to the contents of the Deposit of Faith. While these words seem basic on a superficial level, many doctrines and implications are bound within them. This paper will provide a close examination of the words “by the power of the Holy Spirit he was born of the Virgin Mary, and became man.” Monumental truths about the person of Jesus and how his mother illuminates these truths can be extracted from this seemingly simple statement.
The foundational scripture passage for the conception of Jesus by the Holy Spirit in the virginal Mary is found in Luke 1:26-38. The angel Gabriel appears to the Virgin Mary, telling her she will conceive a child and she shall name him Jesus. Alarmed, Mary asks the angel how it is possible since she is a virgin and Gabriel reveals to her that the Holy Spirit will descend upon her and she will conceive her son. Obedient to God’s will, Mary provides her “Fiat”, her consent, and the event is completed with the angel’s departure. The words in this passage are very straight-forward and do not leave room for misunderstanding the statement, “by the power of the Holy Spirit he born of the Virgin Mary, and became man.” However, with further examination into the account, much more is revealed about the mission of the Blessed Trinity and Mary as well as how she illuminates the truths of her son.
The fact that the Holy Spirit is the one to descend upon Mary in order to conceive Jesus shows how the mission of the Spirit is always connected to the mission of the Son. Other scriptural verses that allude to this joint mission of the Spirit and the Son are Galatians 4:6, John 3:34, and John 7:39. The Spirit and the Son are intimately connected in the life of the Blessed Trinity and are inseparable. The revelation of that connection is established in the account of Jesus’ conception and continues to be reinforced in following scriptural accounts.
Mary’s virginity is also very significant. In order to remove any possibility for an argument that Jesus had a human father, Mary had to be a virgin. This establishes Jesus’ true humanity which he only obtains from his mother and his true divinity which he receives only from his heavenly Father. Mary’s divine motherhood is further supported throughout Scripture as she is called “the mother of Jesus” and “the Mother of my Lord”. The early Church Fathers relied on this scriptural foundation to define the doctrine of “Theotokos” which establishes Mary as the “Mother of God” or “God-bearer”. In his article, “Christ-Centered Catechesis through Mary”, Dr. Petroc Willey asserts that Mary is a mirror of the truths of the Faith, or a living Catechism. Through the doctrine of Theotokos, the unity of the two nature of Jesus, human and divine, are solidified. The development of this doctrine is first revealed in Scripture.
Mary’s free consent to the will of the Father is also scripturally significant. Jesus’ very mission was for the salvation of man which was lost with the first sin of Adam and Eve. Frank Sheed provides extensive scriptural references that define the mission of Christ which are all bound up in the ultimate mission of salvation. The Son came to “take away the sin of the world.” Before examining Mary’s consent, it is important to first go back and examine the free consent under which sin entered the world. Adam and Eve were created with free will. In eating the fruit of the forbidden tree, they lost their trust in God, abused their freedom, and willfully disobeyed what God commanded. It was fitting that the remedy for that sin came about by willful obedience to God’s will. In Lumen Gentium the Church confirms it is appropriate that, because death that was brought about by the consent of a woman, life would be restored by the consent of a woman. It is true that early Church fathers interpreted Scripture the same way as St. Iranaeus proclaimed in “Against Heresies”, “And thus also it was that the knot of Eve’s disobedience was loosed by the obedience of Mary. For what the virgin Eve had bound fast through unbelief, this did the virgin Mary set free through faith.” (Irenaeus AH, Book III, Chap 2)
Because Mary freely cooperates with the mission of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to bring about salvation for humanity, and because the truths about her reflect the truths about her Son, it is of the upmost importance that the statement regarding her is placed in the Creed as a central belief. With her prominence in the central proclamation of belief alongside the Holy Spirit and her Son, the Deposit of Faith establishes the importance of teaching about her early and often as she illuminates the Christocentricity of all Church teaching. Johannes Hofinger states that Marian dogma leads to a “fuller understanding of the mystery of Christ”. (Hofinger p. 14) In light of this, the authors of the Catechism find it fitting to place the dogma of the Immaculate Conception within the teaching on this line in the Creed.
It has already been established, based on the discussion of Mary as Theotokos, that Jesus is fully human and fully divine in one man. With this truth in mind, it is appropriate that the Church defines the Immaculate Conception, the dogmatic teaching that Mary herself was born without original sin, since God is not compatible with sin and could not exist within a body containing the stain of sin. In his work, “The Predestination of the Virgin Mother and her Immaculate Conception”, Fr. Peter M. Fehlner establishes the scriptural proofs that salvation cannot come about through a vessel stained by sin and therefore Mary must have a unique holiness. Gabriel’s greeting to Mary, “Hail, full of grace” implies that she was spared from the effects of Original Sin, since one who is stained with sin cannot be “full” of grace. Further, the incompatibility of God and sin is established in the Old Testament. The Ark of the Covenant cannot be touched by a sinful man or he will be struck dead. Therefore, if Jesus is the mediator of the New Covenant, Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant and, according to a precedent set by God himself, cannot contain sin. This truth about Mary only serves to elevate the truth of the divinity of her Son. While the Immaculate Conception has always been a truth, the unfolding and understanding of doctrine happens slowly over time in response the particular needs of the faithful. This dogma was fully declared by the Magisterium in the document, Ineffabilis Deus in 1854.
In proclaiming the foundational truths of the Catholic Faith in the Creed, certain implications arise as to how they are to be celebrated in Liturgy, the Christian life, and in prayer. It is not enough to simply believe something. It must be internalized and fully lived if it is firmly believed to be Truth.
With regard to celebration in Liturgy, the statement “by the power of the Holy Spirit he was born of the Virgin Mary, and became man” is a reminder of the mission of salvation for men and the role each of the persons of the Holy Trinity. Mary was spared from the effects of Original Sin by the merits of her Son which were applied to her outside of time. The grace she enjoyed from the beginning is the grace that is available to all men, bestowed by the Father through the merits of the Son. Thus the reception and participation in this grace is the goal of the liturgy. Mary’s fiat indicates her cooperation in bringing about the Son who has come to redeem the world. Without her consent, there would be no liturgy to celebrate. Jesus receives his human flesh from his virginal mother and it is the same flesh that is consumed in the Holy Eucharist. Likewise, the same flesh that was contained within Mary is also contained in those who consume the Eucharist allowing for a “sacramental and ecclesial communion with Mary”. Man is able to become a living tabernacle just as she was a living tabernacle. Because of the unique role Mary plays in providing mankind access to the liturgy as well as to the flesh of her Son, it is fitting that there are certain days in the liturgical calendar to celebrate the truths about her that illuminate the truths about her Son. Liturgical celebrations devoted to her remain consistent with the all liturgy being ordered to the goal of man’s participation in the reception of his divine grace.
Another result that came about from Mary’s fiat is that he obtained from her a human face for man to gaze upon and worship. Prior to Jesus’ Incarnation, there was no way to produce a physical image of God. Since man was made in the image and likeness of God, and Jesus was God made man, Jesus reveals in his physical body what was intended for man upon his creation. Sacred images of Jesus and his mother on whom the Holy Spirit descended serve as reminders of the perfect image of God and thus, Christ is glorified through their use in liturgical celebrations. In the 8th Century, Andrew of Crete explains the normal and acceptable use of icons in the early Church in his work, “On the Veneration of Sacred Images.” Andrew states that there is nothing abnormal about the use of icons in Christianity and lists three specifics examples of their use and how they glorify the Christ by revealing his humanity which he obtained from his mother.
Another facet for approaching what is declared in the Creed is to ponder what the call to action for members of the church might be in terms of positively responding through an active Christian life. When Mary provided her free consent for the Holy Spirit to descend upon her, her fiat was a perfect act of faith. Faith is the theological virtue that allows a believer to completely trust God’s will and act accordingly by living in a way that reflects their faith in God through action. Mary’s witness of perfect faith, and the descent of the Holy Spirit upon her because of that faith, helps Christians understand what it means to have faith and act on it in their own lives. The virtues that radiate from her through her response to Gabriel, because of her foundational virtue of faith, are humility, chastity, and obedience. Expanding on Mary’s example of a virtuous life, St. Bernard of Clairvaux urges his audience to use her a model for a virtuous life, saying:
“O man, if it is beneath your dignity to follow the example of a man, surely it will not be beneath you to follow your Creator. Maybe you can no longer follow him where he stooped for you. That is to say, if you cannot follow the high road of virginity, at least take the sure road of humility. If anyone, even a virgin, should turn aside from this strait way, it seems he does not follow the Lamb wherever he goes.”
Here, St. Bernard clearly recognizes the difficulty of a perfectly virtuous life due to man’s sinful nature. However, he asserts that even if higher virtues are too difficult, a Christian should still strive for virtue according to his greatest ability. In not pursuing any virtue at all, one cannot call himself a Christian because he is not following Jesus.
The Virgin Mary’s fiat which allowed the Holy Spirit to descend upon her to bring about Savior of the World is also an example of perfect Christian prayer. To say, “Behold I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word” is to faithfully consent to God’s will with complete trust that he will provide all of the strength and grace necessary to carry it out. While Christian prayer can consist of many elements including praise, thanksgiving, and petitions and be meditative or verbal, it reaches its perfection in complete surrender to his will as demonstrated by Mary’s fiat. Therefore, the line in the Creed – “by the power of the Holy Spirit he was born of the Virgin Mary, and became man.” – is a call for Christians to give their own fiat to God. In an article that discusses Mary’s fiat with regard to its application in catechetics, author Gary Sullivan beautifully states the following: “Catechists formed in Mary’s mould are like little arks. In her pattern we have been overshadowed by the Holy Spirit in Baptism, filled and empowered in Confirmation, and impregnated with the liturgical Word.” It is the goal of Christian prayer “to be wholly God’s, because he is wholly ours.” By responding with faithful prayer, the Christian allows the Holy Spirit to descend upon him and facilitate a close and intimate encounter with the person of Jesus, just like Mary.
The fundamental belief stated in the Creed that “by the power of the Holy Spirit he was born of the Virgin Mary, and became man” has a kerygmatic message at its core. The kerygma is essentially the proclamation of the gospel message which is to restore humanity to a filial relationship and life in the Holy Trinity. Therefore, Mary is the first deliverer of the kerygma to God’s people. In her obedience, Mary undoes what Eve did through her disobedience. The grace and life in the Holy Trinity that were lost with the first sin could now be restored through Mary’s fiat. Her free consent allowed the Holy Spirit to bring about the Incarnate Word of the Father for the sake of the salvation of souls. She allows the complimentary mission of each person of the Holy Trinity to use her body, so that the Son might have his own body through which to communicate with his people. That human body would go on to preach, tell stories, perform miracles, and have relationships in order to further reveal God. That human body would eventually suffer, die, resurrect, and ascend, taking all of the sin that came about from man’s first fall upon his own flesh and later glorifying that tortured flesh. The kerygma itself begins with Mary’s fiat and the Holy Spirit’s descent upon her.
The seemingly simple words of the Creed are permeated with implications and responsibilities. In proclaiming their Truth, not only is belief proclaimed, but believers are called to celebrate the liturgy, live a virtuous life, and participate in fervent prayer. In drawing out all of these aspects of the Catholic faith in the Creed’s words, the Christian has a close and personal encounter with the person of Jesus and can, in return, introduce him and his mission to others. Hofinger wisely highlights the importance of the teacher to have his own personal relationship with Christ in order to introduce him to others. In order to provide an effective proclamation of the Gospel message to others, a teacher must cultivate “kerygmatic virtues” which are all perfectly exemplified in Mary.
Andrew of Crete. “On the Veneration of Sacred Images” in Mary and the Fathers of the Church: The Blessed Virgin Mary in Patristic Thought, edited by Luigi Gambero, Translated by Thomas Buffer. San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1999.
Father Luigi Gambero’s work evaluates and unfolds what the early Church Fathers had to say with regard to the Virgin Mary. This process shows how the Marian doctrines and dogmas have slowly been unveiled over time without contradiction to what has been known about her from the earliest stages of Christianity. Reading the works of the early Church Fathers helps with the process of passing on the Deposit of Faith because it shows that the current understanding of Mary is not new or invented. It was all contained in the deposit from the beginning. Andrew of Crete provides an 8th Century understanding of the importance of sacred icons is both appropriate and historical. Mary, giving Jesus his human body, enabled God to be depicted in religious art in a real and tangible way.
Bernard of Clairvaux. Homilies in Praise of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Translated by Marie-Bernard Said. Kalamazoo: Cistercian Publications, 1993.
Pius IX. Ineffabilis Deus. Vatican City: Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1854.
This book is a collection of four homilies written by St. Bernard of Clairvaux who lived in the 11th Century. St. Bernard had a deep love of Mary and expressed it in these homilies. What is notable about his works is that they are permeated, or impregnated, throughout with citations to Sacred Scripture. He knew Scripture very well and unabashedly drew from it extensively to show what was revealed about Mary through a careful reading. In the cited quotation, he finds in Mary a perfect model of Christian virtue and implores his audience to follow her example to the best of their ability. This is relevant with regard to the proclamation of the Creed because what is understood about the Virgin Mary by the Church is revealed by the inspired Word of God.
Catechism of the Catholic Church, Second Edition. Vatican City: Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 2007.
Fehlner, Fr. Peter M. “The Predestination of the Virgin Mother and Her Immaculate Conception” in Mariology: A guide for Priests, Deacons, Seminarians and Consecrated Persons, edited by Mark Miravalle, 213-276. Goleta: Seat of Wisdom Books, 2007.
Mariology is an extensive collection of in-depth essays by theologians regarding the Virgin Mary. The book would be difficult for a person with limited understanding of Marian doctrine and dogma and is not a good starting point for learning about Mary. However, for those responsible for handing on the Deposit of Faith, these essays can help deepen their understanding of Mary and her role in Salvation History. This deeper understanding will, in turn, help to facilitate a more intimate relationship with Jesus through his mother. Father Fehlner’s essay focuses on the Immaculate Conception. Illuminated by an understanding of the Immaculate Conception, deeper implications can be extracted from the words of the Creed.
Hofinger, Johannes. The Art of Teaching Christian Doctrine: The Good News and its Proclamation. Mansfield Centre: Martino Publishing, 2016.
Irenaeus, “Against Heresies” in Mary and the Fathers of the Church: The Blessed Virgin Mary in Patristic Thought, edited by Luigi Gambero, Translated by Thomas Buffer. San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1999.
Father Luigi Gambero’s work evaluates and unfolds what the early Church Fathers had to say with regard to the Virgin Mary. This process shows how the Marian doctrines and dogmas have slowly been unveiled over time without contradiction to what has been known about her from the earliest stages of Christianity. Reading the works of the early Church Fathers helps with the process of passing on the Deposit of Faith because it shows that the current understanding of Mary is not new or invented. It was all contained in the deposit from the beginning. In the 4th Century, St. Irenaeus is able to illustrate the link between Eve’s first sin and Mary’s co-operation in the reparation for that sin.
New American Bible, Student Edition. World Catholic Press, 1987.
Paul VI. Lumen Gentium. Vatican City: Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1964.
Lumen Gentium is the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church which was a product of the council of Vatican II. There was some debate about the inclusion of a chapter on Mary and whether that should be in a separate document in order to not alienate non-Catholic Christians. It was determined that since Mary has an important role both in the Church and in Salvation History, it should be included. Including Mary in a Constitution on the Church is fitting as her inclusion in the Nicene Creed was equally important in the earliest Church. She is the first disciple, the first Christian, and a cooperator in the delivery of the kerygma.
Roy, Fr. Neil J. “Mary and the Liturgical Year” in Mariology: A guide for Priests, Deacons, Seminarians and Consecrated Persons, edited by Mark Miravalle, 607-666. Goleta: Seat of Wisdom Books, 2007.
Mariology is an extensive collection of in-depth essays by theologians regarding the Virgin Mary. The book would be difficult for a person with limited understanding of Marian doctrine and dogma and is not a good starting point for learning about Mary. However, for those responsible for handing on the Deposit of Faith, these essays can help deepen their understanding of Mary and her role in Salvation History. This deeper understanding will, in turn, help to facilitate a more intimate relationship with Jesus through his mother. Father Roy’s essay elaborates on how Mary’s role into the Church necessarily draws her into the second pillar of the Catechism. Given her cooperation in the bringing about of redemption for man, it is fitting that she be incorporated into the celebration of the Christian mystery.
Sheed, Frank. Theology and Sanity. San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1993.
Sullivan, Gary. “From Fiat to Magnificat: A Catechetical Journey” in The Sower, 30.4.
Gary Sullivan writes a short essay showing how the words Mary speaks in Scripture provide catechetical lessons. As the first follower of Christ, it is appropriate she is also the first catechist. For the purposes of this essay, a focus on her fiat helped with drawing out the words of the Creed. Without Mary’s fiat, the Holy Spirit would not have descended upon her and make the Father’s Word Incarnate. With regard to catechizing, her fiat provides a perfect example of a response of faith to God which results in an intimate relationship with his son. The purpose of catechesis and handing on the Deposit of Faith is to inspire the same type of response in all Christians, intending the same type of intimate encounter.
Willey, Petroc. “Editor’s Note: Christ-Centered Catechesis through Mary.” In Catechetical Review, 32.2.
In his short article, Dr. Willey explains that what the Church teaches about Mary reveals more about her son with the result of bringing him greater glory. Common misunderstandings about Mary “worship” are cleared up by Dr. Willey. Mary receives the grace and honor she does because of who her son is. Therefore, any truth about her mirrors a Truth about Jesus. In order for the hypostatic union of Jesus’ two natures in one person to be true, he necessarily had to born of the Holy Spirit and virginal woman. Therefore, the statement in the Creed regarding being born by the Spirit to a woman, reveals this hypostatic union.
 Catechism of the Catholic Church, (Vatican City: Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 2007), #185-186.
 CCC #485.
 CCC #689
 Luke 1:43; John 2:1, 19:25; CCC #495
 CCC #495
 Petroc Willey, “Christ-Centered Catechesis through Mary” in Catechetical Review 32.2.
 Frank Sheed, Theology and Sanity (San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1993), 233-237.
 John 2:29
 CCC #397
 CCC #494
 Paul VI, Lumen Gentium (Vatican City: Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1964), 56.
 St. Irenaeus, “Against Heresies” in Mary and the Fathers of the Church: The Blessed Virgin Mary in Patristic Thought, edited by Luigi Gambero, Translated by Thomas Buffer (San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1999), 54.
 Fr. Peter Fehlner, “The Predestination of the Virgin Mother and Her Immaculate Conception” in Mariology: A guide for Priests, Deacons, Seminarians and Consecrated Persons, edited by Mark Miravalle, (Goleta: Seat of Wisdom Books, 2007), 232-233.
 CCC #491; Luke 1:28.
 2 Samuel 6:7.
 Pius IX. Ineffabilis Deus. Vatican City: Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1854.
 CCC #492
 CCC #1077
 Fr. Neil J. Roy, “Mary and the Liturgical Year” in Mariology: A guide for Priests, Deacons, Seminarians and Consecrated Persons, edited by Mark Miravalle, (Goleta: Seat of Wisdom Books, 2007), 610-611.
 Ibid, 611.
 CCC #1159
 CCC #1161
 Andrew of Crete, “On the Veneration of Sacred Images” in Mary and the Fathers of the Church: The Blessed Virgin Mary in Patristic Thought, edited by Luigi Gambero, Translated by Thomas Buffer (San Francisco: Ignatius Press, 1999), 398-399.
 CCC #1814
 Bernard of Clairvaux. Homilies in Praise of the Blessed Virgin Mary, translated by Marie-Bernard Said, (Kalamazoo: Cistercian Publications, 1993), 12.
 CCC #2617
 Gary Sullivan, “From Fiat to Magnificat: A Catechetical Journey” in The Sower, 30.4.
 CCC #2617
 Johannes Hofinger, The Art of Teaching Christian Doctrine: The Good News and its Proclamation, (Mansfield Centre: Martino Publishing, 2016), 198.
 Ibid., pp. 199-202


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Homestead Exemption Seminar
In 2023, the average Travis County property owner saved more than $1800 on their property tax bill as a result of having a homestead exemption.
Join representatives from the Travis Central Appraisal District on Saturday, February 17, 2024 to learn more about the different types of homestead exemptions and how to apply.
Saturday, February 17th at 1:00pm
Pflugerville Public Library
1008 W Pfluger Street


Spoiler alert: In Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s story ʻThe Adventure of the Lion’s Maneʼ, Sherlock Holmes reveals that the victim, who was found on the beach covered with red welts, was not at all whipped to death: the murderer was in fact a lion’s mane—a jellyfish scientifically known as Cyanea capillata. But is it really possible that a human could be killed by a lion’s mane? In this case, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who had pursued a medical career before becoming a writer, was guided by his imagination. Usually, Cyanea capillata‘s stings just present as local inflammation and swelling. Systematic reactions are not widely described, but nausea, sweating, abdominal pain, and muscular cramps may occur. However Doyle’s descriptions were not entirely fictional; there have been reports of fatal encounters with other species like the Portuguese man o’ war (Physalia physalis) and certain species of box jellyfish.
Sources: Trevett, A. et al., “Lion’s mane jellyfish (Cyanea capillata) envenoming presenting as suspected decompression sickness”, Diving Hyperb Med, vol. 49, issue. 1, (2019): 57–60.
Burnett, Joseph W. and Walter D. Gable, “A fatal jellyfish envenomation by the Portuguese man-o’war”, Toxicon, vol. 27, issue. 7, (1989): 823-824.


The SPU Library is central to the discovery, creation, and sharing of knowledge at Seattle Pacific University.
The SPU Library provides collections, instruction, tools, spaces, and personnel to advance teaching, learning, and scholarship at Seattle Pacific University.
1. Institutional Effectiveness and Assessment: The library defines, develops, and measures outcomes that advance the mission of Seattle Pacific. The library engages in continuous planning and assessment to inform resource allocation and to meet its mission effectively and efficiently.
2. Collections: The library provides access to collections of sufficient quality, depth, diversity, format, and currency to support the teaching, learning, and research mission of Seattle Pacific.
3. Educational Role: The library develops and supports information-literate learners who can discover, access, and use information effectively for academic success, research, and lifelong learning.
4. Discovery: The library enables users to discover information in all formats through effective use of technology and organization of knowledge.
5. Space: The library is a place where users interact with ideas in both physical and virtual environments to expand learning and facilitate the creation of new knowledge.
6. Personnel and Professional Values: The library provides sufficient number and quality of personnel to ensure excellence and to function successfully in an environment of continuous change. Library staff advance professional values of intellectual freedom, intellectual property rights and values, user privacy and confidentiality, collaboration, and user-centered service.
7. Outreach: The library engages the campus and broader community to educate, advocate, and promote its contributions to the academic and cultural mission of Seattle Pacific.
Principles adopted from Standards for Libraries in Higher Education (Chicago, Ill.: The Association of College and Research Libraries, 2011).


I might be a teensy-weensy behind on my reviews… never mind, better late than never, eh? Today’s literary delight is First Class Murder by Robin Stevens, the third in the Wells and Wong mystery series. Now I will admit that I approached this book with some trepidation dear readers. The reason? Well, this is a book which pays homage to Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. Now you can imagine how I might feel about someone trying to reflect Christie can’t you? This, however, is a Robin Stevens book, and therefore there is no need for panic. In fact, there is need for tea and buns and enough time to sit and read it from beginning to end.
Daisy and Hazel are off on their holidays with Hazel’s dad, and they are travelling on the Orient Express. Hazel’s father is a little bit concerned that the friends have got into the habit of tripping over dead bodies every ten minutes, which is not at all becoming for young ladies. He makes them promise to be good, and not get into any trouble. Well, it isn’t long before a body is found in one of the cabins, completely locked from the inside and the girls set out to solve the mystery on the quiet.
There is as cast of characters including a psychic, a magician and a Russian princess. There is also the added bonus of a young American lad who takes a bit of a shine to Hazel. The resemblance to the Christie classic is clear to see, but it’s so deftly done, and handled with such devotion, it’s a joy to read. The friendship between Daisy and Hazel is developing nicely, and really has some depth. I can see these two aged eighty, knitting together whilst chatting to the vicar about the recent murder at the village fete.
It’s a truly glorious read, and as with all the Wells and Wong books, there is a proper mystery with red herrings, twists, turns and clues to indulge the reader. The books may be aimed at younger readers, but there is no shying away from what murder means.
This series is fantastic, and even if you don’t have a Hazel or Daisy in your life to buy a copy for, pretend you do, and read it yourself. You won’t regret it.


How we live has everything to do with who we are. As children of God, we have been given a wealth of spiritual blessings and have been called to walk in a manner worthy of our position in Christ in this fallen world. Ephesians is a book that tells us who we are in Christ and how to live like it. It also teaches us how to stand firm against the enemy of our souls.
(Note: This workbook has been adapted from an oral teaching of the book of Ephesians by Shannon Leibold)