Saturday, April 24, 2010
Warning: This Post is Rambling and Somewhat Philosophical
One thing I appreciate about little children is the levity they bring to our lives. Nothing is more rewarding than being allowed a window into the joyous and sincere thought processes of a little one. Mundane things sparkle when viewed through the lens of a preschooler, and I have to remind myself of that during the more trying moments.
I took a long car trip with Small One yesterday. It was far longer than it should have been, actually, because my dear Small, who normally seems to have the bladder of a camel, needed to stop every ten minutes. I'm not sure what was up with that, but she was serious about it. At one point I told her she'd need to hold it a little while longer, as I'd stopped 10 minutes earlier, and a minute or two later I heard her voice pipe up in the back seat.
"Please God, help me hold my pee pee just a LITTLE bit longer."
Sigh. Obviously, I stopped.
We are a Christian household, and I have a strong faith. I've always read scripture to my children, taken them to church, encouraged them to develop a strong spiritual life, but lately I've been discouraged. It seems like there's so much that gets in the way of simple faith! For the teenagers, it's peer pressure, and societal pressure to always question... not that I have a problem with questioning, I've turned my own faith inside out at times, searching for truth, and believe I'm stronger for it. With the preschoolers, though, it's something different. It should be easy- Jesus himself spoke of the beauty of childlike faith. But it's not easy, because today's children are bombarded with images and information, and even though I take Small to Sunday school and she's enrolled in a church preschool, I feel like there's a fear, even among Christian people, of telling children anything real that goes along with our religion.
At Easter, for instance, we were told in Sunday school not to teach the little ones anything about the true meaning of Easter, because death and resurrection are far too heavy for little children to comprehend. Ok, well, maybe, but by three and a half they've been exposed to Snow White and Batman and who knows what all else? Their pets die. Their loved ones die. Show me an almost four year old who doesn't know what the word "die" means, and I'll show you a very sheltered four year old. So why, when the death and resurrection of Christ is the cornerstone of our faith, are we not allowed to teach it in simple terms they understand. One of our banned lessons had the following (deeply controversial) theme: "Jesus's friends were happy that he was alive again!" In my opinion, it would take a pretty unintelligent three and a half to be unable to grasp that one! I think we're seriously underestimating our children these days, in many ways, feeding them crap physically, mentally, and spiritually, and fooling ourselves into believing that's all they can handle. Is it the children that have a problem, or are the adults around them uncomfortable with the idea that a person so small could actually have an idea or insight? Or is it that we're trying so hard to be politically correct that we strip the world of meaning, lest someone be offended?
All that to say, I've been discouraged. I've questioned whether it makes any difference whatsoever to take your children to church, if the church isn't going to teach them anything. But yesterday, with roughly 65000 hours in the car together, I got to hear some of Small's theology.
First, she asked me how God gets out of her heart when he has things to do. I stumbled over this one, because "God in your heart" is sort of an ethereal concept for someone as literal as my Small. And really, it's a good point. God's a busy guy, you know, making the rain fall, and the grass grow, and all that sort of whatnot. How's he supposed to do that from the rather confined space inside the chest of a three year old girl?
She followed it up with this, though:
Small- "You know, Pinocchio asked Jesus to come into his heart. Pinocchio is a puppet, sort of like the muppets."
Me- (not sure where she was going with this) "Hmm... and what did Jesus say?"
Small- "Oh, he said yes! That's how Jesus is! If you ask him into your heart, he always says yes! God is like that too, if you ask him for help he helps you!"
I thought that was pretty good, actually. I can go with that.
She later told me that her skinned knee was getting better. We talked about how our bodies are able to heal themselves. She asked me how they know how to do that all by themselves, and I told her that God made our bodies that way. She seemed content with that answer.
A few minutes later, I heard her in the back seat again.
"Thank you, God, for making my knee better. Thank you for my healthy body that knows how to heal all by itself. Thank you for making my wonderful body!" Then she interrupted herself to say, "Mommy! You thank God for your wonderful body, too!"
And so, I did.


We offer resources to help those who are struggling with addictions or anyone who has a loved one that is struggling. We offer faith-based recovery skills classes at our center along with faith-based life skills classes. We provide support, resources, and information to local 12 step programs or groups that are available in our community. We believe there are many ways to sobriety or abstinence and one way to complete healing.
If we don't first understand what is broke, how can we devise a recovery plan that works? We believe the best evangelism is a changed life. Therefore, the goal of The Genesis Process and Programs is to be intimately involved as part of the body of Christ in the Great Commission through the successful restoration of broken lives.
Shift Life is a nine-month non-resident program that helps those caught in addiction to move forward in recovery. To learn more, please email the program director, Steve Young. Shift meets on Thursday nights.
Tuesday nights at 6:30-8:30 Contact Gary Schloemer at College Avenue Church of Christ if you have any questions.
101 West Main St. Suite 201
El Dorado, AR


Sean has been my favorite son! He is great and both Melissa and Megan have accused me of thinking Sean is my favorite child. For the record, I love all of my children!! I am so grateful for him and for his life. He truly is a gift to me from my Heavenly Father.
Sean has had great support in his life from his family. This is a picture of Grandpa Alan and Grandma Bea after Sean was ordained a teacher.
Everyone that meets Sean says he looks like his dad. Sean shares his middle name with his dad...Timothy!
I love this picture. Look at how they are standing together without even being asked to pose.


The last time I saw you, I was half asleep, you came to kiss me good-bye. You said, I love you. Have a nice day. And those words soothed me back to sleep.
Not long afterward, the phone rings and Im startled to hear your voice. You said you were all right, not to worry, turn on the news. I said Okay and turned on the news, in horror. You call again to assure me that you were safe and to call the family. You told me you were safe and I wanted to believe you. I never dreamt those would be last words I heard from you.
I never thought I would be without Michael. He was the best husband (which I told him everyday). From the moment I met Michael I knew there was something about him. I was drawn to his soul. He had a way of looking deeply into my eyes and pulling me in. We were all drawn to him-he had that special something that made you want to be near him. He was always smiling. I was blessed to have had him in my life for two years. We never spent a night apart; we were together all the time. We made a great team, M&M. He made me his whole life and I will always treasure that.
I will miss his wonderful voice, his big blue eyes, his laugh and his smile. I loved everything about him. He was compassionate and always willing to help others. He lived his life to the fullest; he didnt have a fear of dying. I was proud to be his wife and I know that he was as happy and in love as I was. I wanted to grow old with him and I looked forward to starting a family.
Everyday I ask myself, How do I go on without my husband? Its so hard to be strong. I know he is with me and he would want me to go on with my life. My faith in God and spirituality keep me going. I believe God has a plan for me, I know I have to do something to remember the people that lost their lives that beautiful September morning. This mission keeps me very busy and motivated to go on. I know Michael would be proud of me. He always supported me in whatever I wanted to do.
I know he will be waiting to greet me in the next life-where we can spend eternity together. Until then, I will rejoice in his memory. I am blessed to have a wonderful guardian angel at my side. I know that he is at peace and surrounded by family and friends as he was here on earth.
When I close my eyes I still see him smiling at me and telling me to have a good day, I love you, as he did on our last morning together. I will try Michael. Until were together again, I will try.
A Special Message to My Angels: I want to thank all the angels who are helping me to accomplish my mission. I also want to thank my loving family and wonderful friends who are helping me get through this difï¬cult time with their love and support.
– Monica Iken lost her husband, Michael Patrick Iken, in the World Trade Center, Tower 2, 48th Floor on September 11, 2001


Not a week goes by that I don't have thoughts of my dearest friend, Neva. A smile always pops on my face with warm feelings inside. She has left an imprint on my heart of happiness, love, and compassion. She was a beautiful light of hope in everyone's life who new her.
We often shared laughter and dreams about her past and future, as we went through our journey together. She loved on everyone that crossed her path and always was there for anyone who needed help with anything. I enjoyed the talks we had about the love of her life and sweetheart husband. They are the perfect example of a loving married couple I have ever met.
She was a special person who had an unfailing love for Jesus and it showed. Her hope was that knowing her would point the way to heaven for everyone because of the goodness of Jesus Christ in her life.
I remember the twinkle in her eye and the smile on her face when we talked about how beautiful heaven was going to be.
My heart rejoices knowing that I will see her again one day.
Look to heaven, loved ones.
A Day of Remembering begins today, partnering with Rebecca's Recuerda Mi Corazon blog.
Every Sunday we will share stories and pictures remembering our loved ones ending on November 2nd. Come join us by clicking on the dove icon at the bottom right of my blog.


Happy St. Patrick’s Day from Miles Kimball.
The Origin of St. Patrick’s Day:
Saint Patrick’s Day was made an official Christian feast day in the early 17th century and is observed by the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion (especially the Church of Ireland), the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Lutheran Church. The day commemorates Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland, and celebrates the heritage and culture of the Irish in general. Celebrations generally involve public parades and festivals, and the wearing of green attire or shamrocks. According to legend St. Patrick used the three leaf clover (or shamrock) to explain the Trinity.
Celebrate your Irish pride this St. Patrick’s Day with everything you need for a truly festive celebration available from Miles Kimball. Everyone enjoys the luck of the Irish on St. Paddy’s Day and we’ve got just what you need to spread the luck around on this special occasion. From a fun St. Patrick’s Day garden flag to shamrock apparel, jewelry, and fabulous collectibles, you’ll find everything you need for show off your Irish heritage all year round. The fun starts in Miles Kimball’s St. Patrick’s Day department where you can stock up on playful décor and more, including lights and shamrock wreaths!


This week's upcoming sermon
Special Sunday Evening Service
Share, Prayer, & Prepare
Join us for an evening of sharing, praying, and seeking the Lord together.
Snack fellowship following the service.
Service Times & Location
Sunday School For All Ages - 9:00 AM
Sunday Morning Worship - 10:00 AM
Sunday Evening Worship - 6:00 PM
Wed. Evening Family Ministries - 6:30 PM
Wed. Evening Prayer Meeting - 7:00 PM
How to Know for Sure You’re Going to Heaven
Has anyone ever taken a Bible and shown you how you can know for sure that you're going to heaven?


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Courage Shield Pendant, Joshua This would make an excellent gift and reminder to people who are experiencing difficult times in their life. It encourages. Unique Christian Gifts For Men. Brass Pens are a commonly used item. A Brass engraved pen is a simple option to remind the christian guy in your life of. Check out our christian gifts for men selection for the very best in unique or custom, handmade pieces from our journals & notebooks. Personalized Wedding Gift Ideas and More · Song of Solomon Calligraphy Banner · Picnic Backpack Hamper for Two · Willow Tree Promise (Personalized). This stainless steel Man of God travel mug is double wall insulated – so it will keep his coffee hot, and it makes a great statement at the same time. It's. 10 Christian Gifts For Men (Under $10 Each!) · Save. Save. Faith of Our Fathers DVD · Save. Save. Faith, Power, Pray bracelets · Save. Save. Wild At Heart. Man of God Gifts · 1. Man of God Mug and Journal by Christian Art Gifts · 2. Joshua Be Strong and Courageous Wall Art by Christian Walls · 3. Man of God. 5 Gift Ideas for Christian Men · 1) Leather-bound Bible. It might seem cliché but a Bible is one of hte most thoughtful gifts you can give to a Christian man. Consider gifting him a print of his favorite Bible verse or an engraved journal. Does your husband love his morning coffee? Look for an inspirational mug to. Collection: Christian Gifts for Men · Premium Wood Display & Storage Tray for Weekly Bible Verse Cards · A Year of God's Majestic Creation - Memory Verse.
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By Jim Berlin Whoever you hit with that rock will know as much about global warming as Pope Francis. The difference is that Francis, spiritual head of 16 percent of the world’s inhabitants, just issued an encyclical (fancy-ass letter) blaming humans and their fossil fuels for global warming. The pope’s condemnation of coal, oil and natural gas – the economic life’s blood of every advanced nation – has upset even some Catholics. As they point out, the church belief in papal infallibility only applies to pronouncements on faith and morals. Global warming is neither of those, which means the pope’s opinion on the subject carries no more weight than that of our Mardi Gras drunk. Still, the pontiff is to be admired for tackling any issue, religious or not, which he considers important to mankind. This week he called all Catholic manufacturers Vatican spokesman Rev. Joe Metuzzio said the title of the fancy-ass letter will be, “The Pope Francis Guide to Red-Hot Kinky Catholic Sex.” “His Eminence has never personally experienced red-hot kinky sex,” Rev. Metuzzio said, “but years of hearing confessions have taught him all he needs to know.”
Whoever you hit with that rock will know as much about global warming as Pope Francis.


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O God, our refuge and our strength, give ear to the holy prayers of thy Church, O thou, the author of holiness; and grant, that what we ask with faith, we may effectually obtain.
Collect from the 22nd Sunday after Pentecost
Let us ask with faith that which is consonant with holiness. May God grant that all our Christian bretheren may be united in the fullness of one faith in one fold. As the Gradual says: Behold, how good and pleasant it is for bretheren to dwell together in unity!


Palm Harbor, Florida
Palm Harbor United Methodist Church
Hoffman Architects, PA
With over 2000 members, Palm Harbor United Methodist Church is one of the fastest growing churches in Pinellas County. When they found the need for a new 24,000 SF sanctuary, they chose Hawkins Construction, Inc.
Hawkins Construction was able to propose more cost effective and durable systems, and help guide the construction techniques while obtaining the congregation's overall goals of the facility. One major obstacle that was handled flawlessly was Hawkins' ability to work around an active day care center, pre-school and church campus, 7 days a week.
We will be there for every step of the way.Get Started


Woodlawn Christian Church is a Christ-centered, biblically grounded church family called to personal discipleship in and for Jesus Christ.
As a people of prayer, purpose, and passion, we strive to create a community of faith where all people gather as one in worship, fellowship, and service.
The heart of the gospel is God’s redemptive love. In our life together, the world will see the power of forgiveness to overcome alienation, the strength of love to transform hate, the power of grace to break the bonds of guilt, the triumph of hope over despair, and the victory of faith over doubt.
Foremost among beliefs firmly held by Woodlawn Christian Church is the acknowledgment that Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, the Savior of this world, our Lord and God, and that through belief in Him we are assured of eternal fellowship with a loving God. For us, the foundation of Christian belief–and the greatest event in all history–is the drama of the first Easter week: the death of Christ, in which He took upon Himself all the sins of the world, and the Resurrection, which offers glorious proof of His teaching and His triumph over sin and death.
Furthermore, we are keenly aware of the reality of Judgement Day. All people believer or not will one day stand before the Lord Our God in judgment. Our calling is to bring this world one soul at a time to receive Christ as their Savior, so that they might hear “well done my good and faithful servant”.
Holy Scripture always has been for us the most authoritative guide to knowing and serving the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Creator, Redeemer, Sustainer). As the divinely-inspired word of God, the Bible for us reveals our faith and its mandated practice.
Our affirmation of the priesthood of all believers arises from a conviction that all who truly seek God are competent to approach God directly. We cherish the freedom Christ has granted us as individual believers and as a distinct congregation. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the church in Galatia and in other writings, emphasizes that freedom.
Woodlawn Christian Church partakes of two ordinances exemplifying obedience to our Lord’s commands: a believers’ baptism and the Lord’s Supper. We insist that baptism be administered only to those who have the maturity to understand its profound significance: resurrection to new life in Christ. And we follow the biblical example set by Christ when we fully immerse in water, a beautiful symbolic statement of that new life. The Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion, commemorates the sacrifice of our Lord. The bread and cup that symbolize the broken body and shed blood offered by Christ remind us today of God’s great love for us–just as they did for the disciples 2,000 years ago on the eve of the crucifixion. Here at Woodlawn, we practice Holy Communion each Sunday and during many of our special worship celebrations.
We have taken to heart the Great Commission of Matthew 28:19–the call to evangelism: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you”. We are committed to this mission, to see the glory of God revealed in all the earth; to see Jesus Christ proclaimed as Savior and Lord to all people and nations; to see the renewal of God’s creation; and to see God’s justice and peace reign in all the world.
We take seriously all that Christ did during His brief but momentous years of teaching and nurturing disciples and followers. We accept the ministries Christ modeled as our ministries. Understanding God’s word as revealed in Scripture is of great importance to us, and our church stresses learning and teaching as vital responsibilities. We accept the wisdom of the New Testament writer James (the brother of Christ), who maintained that those who truly have faith in Christ necessarily live out that faith, they share that faith.
We celebrate the special gifts of all believers, testifying that God can use each of us in the overall outreach of ministry. Paul states that “apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers” all work for “building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11,12).
All of us are a part of the “Body of Christ”, each has a special role and purpose. We invite you to join with us in fellowship, worship, praise, and service to our Lord... that you might together with us discover your gifts... your purpose... your life in Christ. God bless you and thank you for visiting Woodlawn Christian Church, Lake City, IA.


Nobody can write a folk song, but you can write a song which is in the folk style or tradition and a number of people are now doing this. Many of these new songs are political; few are religious. Yet the religious ballad or carol is as traditional as any song of protest. The outward form of my own faith and doubt is religious rather than political.' So writes Sydney Carter, whose songs I am singing on this record. Better known in folk song clubs as the author of such songs as The Man with the Microphone and Down Below, he writes mainly for radio and television. Many of his songs — including The Youth of the Heart which I sang in 'Al the Drop of a Hat' — were first written for revue. Others were heard in 'That Was The Week That Was.' The melodies used on this record are original except in the case of Lord of the Dance. This tune is based on a Shaker hymn called Simple Gifts. 'I am attracted by the Shakers', Sydney Carter says, 'because they used dancing as well as singing in their worship. Christ is often pictured, metaphorically, as a shepherd or a king; why notes an actor, or a dancer? His whole life, it seems to me, is the expression in dramatic form of the way things are, and were, and ever will be.' The words of Friday Morning need, perhaps, some introduction. They are put into the mouth of one of the thieves who was crucified with Jesus. In his agony he blames the Creator of the universe. 'He is the guilty one', he tells his neighbour, 'He didn't have to make the universe like this. It's God they ought to crucify!' His neighbour is Jesus of Nazareth.
On this record I have accompanied these songs on the piano. This is not the only or the 'right' way. It's just that the piano is my instrument; for most people, it would now be the guitar. In Lord of the Dance you could use drum, flute, organ, tambourine or anything you felt like; and you could dance, as well as sing. It has in fact been danced already in one church at Battersea. Friday Morning, on the other hand, can be sung completely unaccompanied.


Again this year, the mission committee is conducting a Christmas project to provide gifts to children in Loveland. Angel Tree is a program through prison ministry which gives a Christmas gift to children of incarcerated parents. The gift is given in the name of the parent and is a very meaningful parent-child connection. Gifts will also be provided for children in the One Community One Family Project, which supports families struggling with homelessness. Although our efforts may look different this year due to the questions around having worship and other activities in our church building, the mission committee wants to continue our church’s commitment to these children and their families. With extra precautions, we plan to have tags with the children’s names available on November 14 & 15 from 9:00-12:00 in Coy Hall. Please return gifts between 9:00 am & 12:00 pm on November 28 & 29. Delivery will be on December 12.


Who then shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation? Or distress? Or famine? Or nakedness? Or danger? Or persecution? Or the sword? (As it is written: For your sake, we are put to death all the day long. We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.) But in all these things we overcome, because of him that has loved us. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor might, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. –Romans 8:35-39
Last Friday, a yacht with four Americans was hijacked by pirates south of Oman. Since then, American warships have been tailing the pirated yacht back to the pirates’ base in Somalia. From CBS News today, comes this sad ending to the Somali pirate hostage situation:
A pirate fired a rocket-propelled grenade at a U.S. Navy destroyer shadowing a hijacked yacht with four Americans aboard Tuesday. Then gunfire erupted, the military said. U.S. special forces rushed to the yacht only to find the four Americans fatally wounded.
The experienced yacht enthusiasts from California and Washington are the first Americans killed by Somali pirates since the start of attacks off East Africa several years ago. One of the American couples on board had been sailing around the world since 2004 handing out Bibles.
Like a good number of people, I have been wondering what on earth made these four Americans sail in such dangerous waters. Now we know: they were acting as missionaries in the twilight of their years, bringing the good news to people who need to hear it. Their yacht was stocked with bibles which they took to many third world locations. From the Santa Monica newspaper, where their home parish is located, comes this story of how their faith community is grieving, and also telling us a bit more about these unconventional missionaries. I am posting the entire article with the paper’s updates.
They were “very supportive of St. Monica’s, and over these last years, they took our mission—’to form loving disciples who will transform this world’—and did,” Monsignor Lloyd Torgerson tells Santa Monica Patch.
(Updated at 1:37 p.m.): On Tuesday afternoon, Torgerson shared with Santa Monica Patch his thoughts about Jean and Scott Adam.
“They’re an extraordinary couple, a wonderful part of our community,” the pastor said. “Jean had been my dentist, so I got to know her that way.”
The couple was highly active in the church, and two sons of Jean attended St. Monica Catholic High School.
They were “very supportive of St. Monica’s, and over these last years, they took our mission—’to form loving disciples who will transform this world’—and did,” Torgerson said.
The pastor said that, after working hard all their lives, Jean and Scott decided to “make a difference” in their retirement.
“Retirement for them was relaxed, but they went to the far-flung corners of this world and visited the poorest of the poor,” bringing Scripture to them, he said.
He added that the Scripture that was read during Mass on Tuesday morning says, “if you’re faithful, you’ll win the crown”—and, according to Torgerson, “that’s what they did.”
“They died doing what they wanted to do,” he said.
(Updated at 12:29 p.m.): The Rev. David Guffey, a priest who is in residence at the church, reflected on Jean and Scott Adam at the 12:10 p.m. Mass on Tuesday.
He told the congregation, which had gathered for the regular daily service, that “we do so today with special feelings of sadness and sympathy.”
He said the news was “tragic,” and that Torgerson is “working with” the grieving family of Jean and Scott Adam.
A funeral and a memorial service are pending, Guffey said.
Guffey noted that, last weekend, parishioners had lit a candle in the hope that the couple would return home safely.
“We pray for their eternal rest, and for their family and friends,” he said.
Torgerson said Tuesday that Jean and Scott were “faithful people” and that Jean sang in the church choir, according to City News Service.
“They were people that worked hard all their lives and decided in their retirement that they wanted to do something to make a difference in this world,” he said.
Family and friends of Jean and Scott Adam are mourning the deaths of the St. Monica Catholic Church parshioners, who were killed by Somali pirates early Tuesday. At the church’s morning Mass, Monsignor Lloyd Torgerson said the parish was heartbroken at the news, according to The Associated Press.
The couple had been on a voyage around the world, distributing Bibles.
The Bibles, which numbered in the thousands, had been donated to Jean and Scott Adam through grants and gifts. They referred to their effort to distribute them as “friendship evangelism.”
A “wonderful turn of events have occurred as a result of this endeavor,” the couple wrote on their Web site, SVQuest.com.
“They loved the experiences they were having with the people they were meeting and the places they were going,” Scott Stolnitz, a longtime friend of theirs, told CNN. “We asked them once if they ever looked forward to living on land again, and they both, believe it or not, said no.
“They were not proselytizing evangelicals,” he continued. “They were using their Bible mission as a way to break the ice in the Christian community, particularly in the Pacific.”
“This is all of our worst nightmares,” Stolnitz told the Los Angeles Times.
Stolnitz said the 70-year-old Scott Adam was laid-back, had a dry sense of humor and earned a theology degree later in life, after retiring as a film executive. Jean Adam was a retired dentist, according to CNN.
“She wore her heart on her sleeve,” Stolnitz said.
He added that, even though Jean Adam often got seasick on boats, she wanted to be with her husband and decided to sail with him.
“The Quest started an ‘around-the-world’ trip in mid December of 2004 after sailing her to the States from New Zealand in 2002,” the couple wrote on their site. “This is planned to be an eight or ten year voyage.”
The couple was aware of the dangers of piracy, friends told the Los Angeles Times. They said Scott had considered shipping the boat instead, but later decided not to after learning that a rally of yachts was headed to the Arabian and Red Seas.
Ten days ago, Jean and Scott said via e-mail that, in an effort to avoid being located by pirates, they would be out of communication for almost two weeks, according to BBC News.
“They basically had said, ‘We’re not going to be in communication for 10 or 12 days because we know this is territory where there could be problems and we don’t want pirates or other people to know our location,’ ” said Robert Johnston, a professor who taught Scott at the seminary he attended.
According to St. Monica’s Annual Reports, Jean and Scott Adam donated money to the Partners in Mission effort benefiting St. Monica Catholic High School. They donated to the effort’s campaigns in 2008-09 and 2009-10.
I do not understand what happened, why the pirates would kill these hostages with the US Navy right behind them. But I believe that the Adams and their passengers died because they were following a call to witness for our faith, as part of the new evangelization. And because of their followership, they put themselves into a dangerous position leading to their deaths. This makes them martyrs for the faith, though maybe not technical martyrs, I don’t know how that is defined by the Church.
But I will pray for the eternal rest of their souls, for mercy for everyone involved, and comfort for their family and friends. I thank God for their lives and example.
As it is written–
Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.


Summer Day Camp | Summer 2024
Grades | 1st - 8th Programmed Time | 8:15am – 4:45pm
*For grades 1- 6 there is no limit on the number of weeks a camper can attend.
*For grades 7-8 (day camp D) there is a limit of five day camp weeks.
*Registration opens February 7, 2024 @ 6:00am. (click here to register)
Our Day Camp program strives to provide campers with a place filled with exciting classic camp activities and a place to build lasting relationships. One week or up to ten weeks at Manitoqua is a great way for campers to make new friends, try new experiences or enjoy old ones, and be immersed in creation on our beautiful grounds.
Campers will interact with our supportive and fun summer staff while doing activities and learning about the love of Jesus during the day here. Day Camp is an enriching way to spend a week or ten weeks in the summer!


I started singing in choirs as a teenager and eventually auditioned and was accepted into a local chorale based in Los Angeles. The experience gave me the opportunity to develop and train my voice. I have been working as a church musician & cantor for over 10 years and have had the privilege and honor to sing at many of my friends weddings.
I currently work as a cantor for The Church of Epiphany in Lincoln Heights, Los Angeles, CA. This is a beautiful architectural gem built in 1887 nestled in a pedestrian neighborhood with 4 churches on each corner. The Church of the Epiphany is the oldest sustaining Episcopal congregation in Los Angeles. I sing at both services on Sunday, at the 9 am English service and the 10:30 am Spanish service.
If you’re looking for an Episcopal Church Community in Los Angeles, this is a lovely, small congregation full of energetic and socially active members.
For fun I love to sing karaoke. Please join me at one of my favorite places around town.
If you need sheet music, you can visit one of our sponsors www.SheetMusicPlus.com. Here’s where I buy my sheet music when I need a special song for weddings & funerals.
I have an android phone and it’s important to have a reliable, quick charging cord. This is the one I am currently using:
Dance Classes – The Burrito Project – Alpine Design – Music – Ordained Minister – Wedding Planner – Website Services
Please Note: This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.


that cat wears eyeliner better than me
that cat is more attractive than me in general
officially less attractive than a cat
"If you think homosexuality is an unnatural condition, I cannot agree with you."
Kevin Rudd smashes a pastor’s views on marriage equality on Q&A [x]
I watched this when it was on tv last night and it was great
slow clappin’ it out for good ol’ Kev
I could not be happier that Kevin 07 has returned for this exact reason, bless u kev
7 Steps Before You Commit
Your Time and Talent are Valuable, so before you commit to anything or anyone, consider the following:
1. Look at the fruits of what follows that person and ask yourself where will they be leading you. Keep in mind NOT ALL open doors are from God.
“Just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.” ~Matthew 7:20
2. Take a hard look at your future and ask yourself, “Is this God’s purpose & plan for me? Or will this person or project detour, delete or distract from what God may have for me?”
“Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil.” ~Proverbs 4:26-27
3. Ask yourself, “Will I be growing in my walk with Christ when working with this person or on this project?”
“…be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unprincipled men and fall from your own steadfastness, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” ~2 Peter 3:17-18
4. “Will my time and talent invested become a blessing to anyone other than myself?”
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” ~1 Thessalonians 5:11
5. Before you walk away from where you are for a new venture, PRAY HARD and count the cost of what you’re leaving behind or giving up.
“But don’t begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it?” ~Luke 14:28
6. When the beginning excitement phase is over, is this something or someone that you would want to stay connected to when challenges arise?
“Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” ~1 Peter 5:8
7. Don’t allow desperation force you to make a move too quickly. For major decisions, seek wisdom in the Word and wise counsel from those you trust. Then wait at least 30 days and see what God reveals before you invest your valuable time & talent in anyone or anything.
“Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act.” ~Psalm 37:7
“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” ~Psalm 119:105
Stelena + Lyrics: The Fray “Never Say Never”
“I…I have something to say.”
“What is it? What’s wrong?”
“Nothing’s wrong. I just need to say it right this moment. It can’t wait, not anymore.”
“Just tell me”
“I love you, Caroline.”
“—I am completely and utterly in love with you. I adore everything about you Caroline. I love…


Just like our Nigerian pastors, Nigerian gospel songs cannot lead you to Christ. You can hate me all you want for saying this. After all, the early Christians were hated by the world for speaking the truth. Jesus himself warned us of this in John 15:19, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own, but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
The truth is that Nigerian gospel songs are not spiritually uplifting. They are mostly about the things of the flesh’ about riches and fame. The simple use of religious terms and phrases here and there is not enough to lead anyone to Christ. I dare you to go to any Nigerian gospel musician’s website and see if you will find a simple plan of salvation. You won’t. Most of the songs being sold to the public as “Christian songs” are religious rubbish. You must have heard some gospel artistes claiming that people are coming to God through their music, but are they coming to Christ to be born again? There is a huge difference in singing in the name of God and singing for people to be born again in the incorruptible word of God. The Bible said in 1 Peter 1:23 that, “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever
Satan loves all the religious songs that don’t mention the truth of God’s word. So, beware brethren, all this wishy-washy, ear-tickling and worldly gospel songs won’t take you anywhere near Christ.
Most of them are songs without the truth, Churchianity and not Christianity. Because most of the Nigerian gospel musicians are themselves not Christ-like. They carry as many babes as the worldly hip hop stars. Fornicate on Saturday night and minister to you in church on Sunday morning, tasking you to wave your handkerchief in the name of the lord. Do not be deceived my brothers and sisters, God is no author of confusion. Most of the people who sing and produce these gospel songs are not living in Christ. In Ephesians 5:11, God commands us to expose the works of darkness, not repackage them to make lots of money. Today in Nigeria, we hear of pastors and gospel artistes involved in sex scandals and visiting native doctors. While in America, some gospel artistes have been rumoured to be members of known fraternities; selling their souls to the devil at the church of satan. You may argue that we should focus on the music and not the singer, forgetting that music generally is a very powerful force that has a way of breaking down barriers. And the same powerful force can be tainted with negative lyrics and ungodly lifestyle that can pierce through the hearts of the listeners and reshape their values. As a gospel musician, it is very important to bear in mind the fact that God’s word is the sole criterion for evaluating your music. It is very wrong to assume that the musical instrumentation itself apart from the lyrics is morally neutral. Tunes and melodies communicate messages regardless of lyrics. There is always a message implicit in the music itself. Bad music that contains “good” lyrics still conveys a bad message. Matthew 9:16 says, “Neither do men put new wine into old bottles, else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out and the bottles perish.” Let me clarify something. I am not saying that most gospel artistes are not of good intentions. Some even sincerely think that what they are doing is right. But let us also note that good intentions and sincerity do not translate to being right
culled from punch


Fort of St. Jerome, Daman
Daman was taken from its Gujarati ruler by the Portuguese in 1531 but was only officially handed over to the Portuguese in 1559 by Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujarat. Diu became a Portuguese colony in 1539 after the signing of a peace treaty by the Sultan of Gujarat, Bahadur Shah. The territories remained Portuguese colonies till they were freed in 1961. A visit to the historical place of St.Jerome Fort in Daman will give you a clear insight about the history of the place.
As you enter the complex of Daman Fort of St.Jerome you shall first notice the opulent gateway facing the river with a large statue of St. Jerome who was one of the most renowned priests of the Catholic Church. St. Jerome, who was born Eusebius Hieronymous Sophronius, was the most scholarly of the Fathers of the Western Church. He was born about the year 342 at Stridonius, a small town at the head of the Adriatic. The principal building inside the fort is the impressive Church of Our Lady of the Sea. This Catholic Church is one of the earliest seats of office and has an excellent altar with superb paneling. The ramparts are a good place from which to take a clear view of the fish market and small fishing fleet which anchors alongside.
Also called the Fort of St Jerome, Nani Daman is situated on the bank of Daman Ganga river. It is a small fort with high and elegant stone walls, three bastions and two huge gateways. Spread over an area of about 12,250 sq m, the fort boasts two magnificent human figurines. Deriving its name from St Jerome of the Catholic order, the fort is home to a splendid statue of the saint at the front gate and houses a Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Sea that is known for its refined panelling. Other attractions near the fort include Gandhi Park, lying near the Nani Daman Jetty.
How to Reach
The nearest airports to Daman are Mumbai (170 km) and Surat (90 km). Flights are easily available for Mumbai from all the major airports of the country. Surat is connected by flight from Delhi. The nearest international airport is in Mumbai.
The nearest railhead for getting to Daman is at Vapi, located around 12 km away. It lies on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad route of the Western railway and is about 170 km from Mumbai and 90 km from Surat. Major Delhi-Mumbai and Mumbai-Ahmedabad bound trains halt at this station. People travelling to Daman by train can get down at Vapi and then reach Daman by local buses or taxis.
Daman is easily accessible by road, and is connected to some of the major cities nearby with a well-maintained system of roadways. Vapi, at a distance of 12 km, lies on the Mumbai – Ahmedabad National Highway No. 8 and is easily connected to Daman by road. The town is 170 km from Mumbai, 360 km from Ahmedabad, 768 km from Diu, 110 km from Surat and 300 km from Vadodara.


There were four major sources of this change:
- indigenous Christians in Palestine at the beginning of the fourth century
- growing monasticism, particularly spread from Egypt
- hospitality to pilgrims and the growth of communities around sacred places
- catechumens coming to be baptized in the Holy Land
Robert F. Taft reminds us that the original liturgy of Holy Week was a fast. Nothing but the Vigil. Comparing all the descriptions, what our pilgrim from Bordeaux would have found had he visited in Holy Week would have been something like:
- morning prayer
- evening prayer
- Sunday before Easter: Eucharist, but probably not the Palm gospel (Taft and Thomas Potts argue against a Eucharist on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday)
- Holy Thursday: Eucharist with the high-priestly prayer as gospel
- Good Friday: Reading of the John Passion
- Paschal Eve: Vigil with baptisms, Eucharist around daybreak
- night vigil
- prayer before dawn
- minor offices at 9 AM, noon, 3 PM
- Saturday before Holy Week: Raising of Lazarus at the Church of Lazarus in Bethany
- Palm Sunday: Palm procession from the Imbomon on the Mount of Olives into the primary basilica (the Martyrium or Basilica on Calvary)
- Holy Thursday: Matthew 26 at the Martyrium, a walk across town to the church at the Praetorium (Sion) for Mark 14, John 13-18 at the lower church on Olivet, Luke 22 at the Imbomon on the summit, and Matthew 26 at the church in Gesthemane
- Veneration of the Cross at the Martyrium, All four passion gospels also in the Martyrium, procession to the Church over the tomb (Anastasis, or Church of the Resurrection) for the entombment from Matthew 27
Saturday seemed to have remained a time of quiet preparation before the Great Vigil.
The last layer of activities were the times of teaching—around 11 AM or so—daily in the Martyrium for the catechumens. And you thought your Holy Week was busy! If you line up all the liturgies for Holy Thursday through Easter, it becomes pretty easy to figure out what was happening on Saturday. Vigil on Thursday started at about 3 AM, and things didn’t stop for more than an hour until about 6 PM on Friday. Saturday morning must have been for sleep, as the Great Vigil would start at about 6 PM, and not stop until about 9 AM on Easter.
This was truly embodied liturgy. Almost constant exercise for a week—all tied up in spiritual ascesis. It’s no wonder that it made such an impact on pilgrims. Two things made all this work: place and journey. Problem is that when you take the texts and even the rubrics to Rome and Constantinople, you lose place, and as Holy Week spreads out to smaller centers, journey gets lost. You can’t go very far when there’s only one church.
Just because you say the same words, it doesn’t have the same meaning when it’s all in Joliet instead of Jerusalem and your procession is limited to 18 inches in your pew.
Next: After roast lamb in Zion – or what do you do when there are no places, and even the tomb is empty?


We may have that one person or group of people we reach out to for casual or inspirational conversation. Those who have your best interest at heart and can offer wise and fruitful counsel without passing judgment. If you have a person/people in your life like this, then you are blessed! However, the same people may not always be available each time you hit a road bump and you’re in dire need of advice.
When this happens it’s easy to get frustrated or feel like there’s no one who can help you. But, there is God. Cliché right?! Shouldn’t we go to Him for refuge, guidance, and counsel? I mean He is ALL knowing and an ever-present (omniscient) help in the time of need. I think we get so caught up in receiving a microwave annointing from earthly people that we don’t take the time to sit, rest in His presence, making our requests known to Him, and waiting on a response. Waiting for God to answer our prayers or respond to our situation is probably the most wisest thing we should do, but most times we don’t.
It took me a while to wrap my head around this because I didn’t want to WAIT on His provision for whatever the issue or matter was. I learned that it’s okay to wait especially when it’s being orchestrated and carefully prescribed by God.
I communicate with Him more than I did 2 years ago because I know He is ALWAYS AVAILABLE, moreso than others that I prefer speaking to.. I talk to Him about small and big situations: what should I eat for lunch today?; help me decide if i should call him or her…Things like, “..show me how to speak to Jane Doe with grace and love. Open my heart to receive his/her perspective…” When I open up to God in prayer, I know He’s listening. He wants you to share what’s on your heart too. So stop waiting for your friend or significant other to call you back, go to God and talk to Him- He longs to hear from you 😊.


From Pastor Bernard's Pen
Grace and Peace to you from God our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! We pray that this letter finds you all well under the Lord's guidance and protection.
First of all, we want to thank you for your constant prayers, your continuing support and donation. What you are doing for the ministry is priceless and meaningful. By so doing you allow us to better serve God's people and extend the ministry. By your love and Christian action our burden is getting lighter and more souls are won for Christ's sake. Thanks be to the Holy One!
Because of your Christian love, your generosity, your mission minded spirit and your faith in Christ; we are able to accomplish tremendous things/projects on behalf of God's people in Haiti these last two years: a well has been put up, a school and a church have been built in the area of Leo-gane; a new classroom, a library and a cafeteria have been built for our school at Delmas 75, Port-au-Prince; a preaching station which will become a congregation soon is started in the area of Port-au-Prince. A photo of each of these projects will be sent to you. These realized projects have made a positive impact in the lives of the ministry of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church in Port-au-Prince. With the well the people living in the community of Cabois (Leogane) do not need any more to walk for 45 minutes to one hour with a bucket on their head to get some water for their drink and cooking; the victims of the earthquake of January 12, 2010 have now a place to send their children to school and a place to worship; our kindergarten, our grade school and our high school students feel more comfortable now with this new classroom, with a library and a cafeteria. It is not only a blessing but it is also a very good progress in the ministry of the Good Shepherd. Knowing that most of the parents whose children go to our school cannot effort to buy books and other school supplies for their chil-dren, a school library stays and remains an important factor. Our students will no longer use the school desks as a table to eat. Our cafeteria makes a difference today in our school. For all these bless-ings received from God what do we owe Him? Noth-ing! But we can tell others about Him, about the good news of salvation and the wonders He is doing among His people. It is in that same spirit that the members of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran church feel compelled to take out this good news of salvation to the inhabitants of "Village Roracess". Village Coracess was born shortly after the earthquake of January 12, 2010. It is a virgin area as far as the Gospel is concerned, so having a mission field there is much more important.
Where did we find funds to accomplish these projects, to purchase uniforms for our students, to buy text books, school supplies, paying our teachers, to buy rice and beans for our feeding program? The funds come from our brothers and sisters from the different churches and schools, from our donors and supporters up there.
Thank you so much for all you do and continue to do on behalf of the Lord's ministry down here. Please continue to pray for the spreading of the Gospel in Haiti. We have some new projects for the coming year (2015): 1) A copy machine is very much needed for the ministry; 2) Build a hangar for the preaching station; 3) continue with the student's adaptation; 4) continue with the feeding program;
We want to refresh our thanks to you for all the blessings shared with us. This commitment from your part makes a positive impact on the ministry of the Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Church. Also our church members are becoming more active and involved in the extension of the mission work. Our mission field started a few months ago has an attendance of 65 to 70 people). Starting a new mis-sion field might seem to be easy in our eyes but to make it grow is something else. We cannot make it.
Thanks be to our God, both the church and the school are going well. That does not mean there are no challenges but Jesus' victory is ours. Again, thank you so much for all the blessings you are sharing with us, thank you for your commitment, your Christian love and action. You are a real fountain of encourage-ment and blessings for us.
We also take this opportunity to wish our brothers and sisters, our donors/supporters/the kids of the school and the family members.Brotherly yours in the resurrected One, Pastor Thomas Bernard
More NewsDecember 2014 Newsletter
Newsletter from December 2014.Blog from Mission Trip
Visit the above link to view the Blog from a group mission trip to build the school.November 2013 Newsletter
Newsletter from November 2013.July 2013 Newsletter
Newsletter from July 2013.January 2013 Newsletter
Newsletter from January 2013.Haiti Video
Visit the above link to see our Haiti Video presentation.Archive News
View past letters, Heartbeat newsletters and other past news.


and reprimands the outward show of holiness.
37 And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.
38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.
39 And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.
40 Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?
41 But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.
42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
43 Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.
44 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.
45 Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also.
46 And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.
47 Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.
48 Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchres.
49 Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:
50 That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;
51 From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.
52 Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.
53 And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things:
54 Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.
Jesus preaches to his apostles to avoid hypocrisy
1 In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
2 For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known.
3 Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.
4 And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.
5 But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.
6 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?
7 But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
8 Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:
9 But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.
10 And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.
11 And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:
12 For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.


Practicing generosity has the power to lower stress and anxiety, improving physical health, offering a sense of purpose and meaning, fight depression, and even increase one’s life span. In addition, a generous life cultivates a growing connection to God and to others that often results in a deeper sense of community, a lasting hope, and an overall greater good in the world. Here are ten small ways to live a more generous life:
Increase your connection to God and to others by living more generously. This will result in a deeper sense of community, a lasting hope, an increasing love for others, and an overall greater good for our world. It is amazing how many people will be drawn to your commitment to the Christian faith simply because of your generous acts and spirit.
At the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, our purpose is to build a Christian community where non-religious and nominally religious people are becoming deeply committed Christians. We have a vision to be used by God to change lives, strengthen churches, and transform the world. And we are on a journey to know, love and serve God.


Church stage design is a kind of design for a stage that use church as the main idea. Maybe this is sounds odd and unfamiliar to you but this kind of design really exists. In fact, this kind of design is not something new since this kind of design already had been used by many people who have some celebration or do some shows. This kind of design can be used for any kind of event not only just for religious event or holiday.
Church stage design for your stage
12 Photos Gallery of: The Way To Make Church Stage Design
If you feel interested to use this kind of design when you want to hold an event then there are a few things that you need to consider. First; you need to consider about the ornament of the church that you will put on the stage. You have to make sure that the ornament is suitable with the event that you will hold, so it will not look awkward. Second; you have to consider about the color that you use as the main color for the stage. It is because not all color will look suitable with the church design. Third; you need to set the theme that will suitable with the event like Christmas, Easter day, or other event.
Stage design with church style
Some people maybe think that using the design which uses church is really odd. It is because church has function as a place where people can pray and do some religious thing. The reason why nowadays people use church as the main idea to make the stage design is because church always made with good architecture design and some of them even show good art that second to none. That’s why in order to make something that really different and full of art the stage use church as the main idea.
The center for our stage design and stage design church stage. We were able to share with the right place. For some inspiration you need related information about a key factor in easter ideas about church stage design i think that has a little secretim not. Big in all aspects of pvc but also offers liturgical interior and stage decorations. Think that our viewers one recognizes it. Backdrop. Amazing and furnishings for churches around the church stage design church stage decoration ideas i built a guest post from some of church stage decoration ideas.
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Do you consider churches, mosques, and other religious institutions as essential, and why?
This is basically the argument a lot of people are having this morning; and you know how sensitive the subjects of religion and pastors are; especially in Nigeria.
This is the video that kicked everything off:
In the video, the Winners church leader, Oyedepo; called out the government for not including the reopening of churches, in the lockdown relaxation initiative.
And while some people think Oyedepo has a point, others think otherwise;


These days the city of Sofia is full of colors, flowers and joy, ready for one of the most important holidays of the Christian religion, which is celebrated in many countries of the world, including Bulgaria: the Orthodox Easter.
Orthodox Easter falls on a different date than Catholic Easter, as it follows the Julian calendar instead of the Gregorian one, so this year it falls on Sunday, April 16, 2023.
In this article, we will discover the traditions and celebrations related to Orthodox Easter in Sofia.
Orthodox Easter traditions in Sofia
During the Easter period, the city of Sofia hosts numerous cultural and religious events.
The streets smell of freshly baked kozunak, the typical Bulgarian Easter bread, offered in its variants by the city’s bakeries, identifiable not only by the scent, but by the dozens of people waiting to buy their loaf; the windows of the shops and clubs are enriched with many compositions made from floral decorations, colored eggs, painted or embroidered, and Easter animals. The Easter air is everywhere.
The religious celebration of Orthodox Easter in Sofia begins, however, on Holy Saturday, also known as the Saturday of Light. On this day, churches are decorated with flowers and candles, and bells ring throughout the city. On the night of Holy Saturday, the bells of Sofia’s churches ring in celebration, and people gather to participate in the Easter Vigil, a religious ceremony that culminates with the lighting of the Easter candle and the singing of the Easter hymn “Christ is risen!”. After the Easter Vigil, the faithful return home with their candles lit, symbolizing the light of Christ.
Easter Sunday is the most important day: Orthodox churches are filled with faithful who attend the Easter Mass. During the Mass, baskets of food and painted eggs are blessed and then taken home and shared with family and friends. After the Mass, families gather for a large Easter lunch, which often includes roasted lamb, boiled eggs, traditional bread, the traditional kozunak and rakia, and many other typical Bulgarian dishes. During the lunch, families share painted eggs, breaking them together as a sign of friendship and good luck.
Finally, during Orthodox Easter, it is common to visit cemeteries to honor the loved ones.
The faithful bring flowers and candles to their loved ones and pray for them.
5 things to do in Sofia during the Easter period:
During the Easter period, there are many things to do and see in Sofia. Here are 5 suggestions:
1. Visit Orthodox churches – During Orthodox Easter, Sofia’s churches come alive with processions and rituals. You can participate in the Easter Vigil and Easter Masses, or visit churches to admire the icons and magnificence of the buildings. A visit to the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, isdefinitely worth it.
2. Discover culinary traditions – Orthodox Easter is an occasion to taste traditional Bulgarian dishes such as roasted lamb, Easter bread and painted eggs. You could try these specialties in the city’s restaurants or buy local products at markets.
3.Attend Easter processions – During Easter week, many churches in Sofia organize processions through the city’s streets, where Orthodox devoted carry crosses, icons, and symbols of faith. The processions can be very large and involve different churches. These spectacular events are a way for the faithful to celebrate the resurrection of Christ and also offer the opportunity to discover local traditions.
4. Visit museums – Orthodox Easter is also an ideal time to visit Sofia’s museums, many of which host exhibitions that illustrate the history of the Orthodox religion in Bulgaria. Among the most interesting museums are the National Museum of History and the National Museum of Ecclesiastical Art.
5. Take part in cultural activities – During the Easter period, Sofia offers numerous cultural activities such as concerts, theater performances and art exhibitions. You can give a look at the program of events in the city to discover what activities are taking place during your stay. Among the various websites, we recommend consulting the official website of the Sofia Municipality, which provides detailed information about the events and activities organized in the city.
Easter in Sofia
Orthodox Easter is a very important holiday in Bulgaria and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Sofia. All these traditions are a ta proof of the strong culture and faith of Orthodox Bulgarians.
Students and teachers present in our agency in Sofia, ETN Business Lab, have the chance to discover local traditions and culture, participate in religious and cultural activities, and taste the typical Bulgarian food classics


The Companion Study Guide To Judgment Of The Nephilim – For Deeper Study Of The Concepts And Research That Went Into The book
“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” – 2 Timothy 2:15
6,000 years ago a war began. A war to rule Heaven and Earth that dates all the way back to the Garden of Eden. In the Garden, God told Satan that one day a woman would give birth to a male child – the Messiah, who would redeem humanity and destroy him. In order to prevent this child’s birth, Satan instigated a fallen angelic rebellion. A group of angels broke off their allegiance to the Lord and entered the earthly realm to corrupt the human gene pool and prevent the Savior’s birth. These fallen angels (“sons of God”) took human wives (“daughters of men”) and had children with them. Their offspring – hybrid half-human, half-angelic beings, were superhuman giants known as the Nephilim. With human DNA corrupted and humanity hanging in the balance, The Lord unleashed a punishment against the Nephilim so severe, only Noah and his family would survive.
You asked for it and it’s finally here! Welcome to the Companion Study Guide for Judgment Of The Nephilim. Join Ryan Pitterson for a deep dive into the research and concepts of the Amazon Bestselling book.
- An in-depth exploration into the Biblical case for the supernatural interpretation of Genesis chapter 6. Learn the Biblical evidence for the birth of the Nephilim and how the war of the two bloodlines weaves its through the entire history of the Old Testament
- A great resource to use as you read Judgment Of The Nephilim
- All questions prepared by Ryan Pitterson to help you understand and learn the complex concepts, Hebrew and Greek etymology and the numerous historical resources that went into the book
- Excellent for small group or Church study
- Includes inspirational devotions and spaces for prayer and reflections.
Whether you are reading for the first time or ready to jump back in for another study, the Judgment Of The Nephilim Study Guide is the perfect supplement to bring you to a deeper knowledge of the Bible and God’s plan of redemption.
“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”


November 26, 2015
8:00am – 9:00am
A Thrivent Action Team will host the Pancake and Sausage Breakfast in Fellowship Hall. A free will offering will go to help a family in need. Give thanks for what you have and help someone in need.
December 11, 2017 7:00pm – 9:00pmParish Council
December 15, 2017 10:15am – 11:15amSenior Bible Class
December 15, 2017 11:15am – 1:00pmSenior Citizens Meeting (does not meet June, July, or August


New Bible Study Series!
Time: 6:00 - 7:30p
Pastor Woodard’s Home
327 Princess Court
Cincinnati, OH 45206
If your only source of reference was the Bible, what would you expect the Church to look like?
Throughout this series, we will examine the Scriptures to find out what God would say about the church. Our hope is that we will leave this time, longing to be a church that please God, glorifies Him, and is really about Kingdom work.
Children & Youth programming will be available as well!
A RECONCILE ENDORSEMENT
"Pastor Brandon Woodard is one of the most uniquely gifted leaders and preachers to have come through our residency program. In fact, I’ll let you in on a little secret: If it wasn’t for Brandon’s gifts and passion for the multiethnic church, our Kainos Organization would not have launched to such the immediate success it did. I’m proud to call Brandon a son in the ministry and could not encourage you enough to invest in his life and the work of Reconcile Community Church!"
- Bryan Loritts, Lead Pastor Abundant Life, Author, Insider/Outsider.


July 29, 2018 6:00 pm
August 2, 2018 8:30 pm
Elim Lutheran Church
3978 West Broadway Avenue
Robbinsdale, MN, 55422
Elim Lutheran Church in Robbinsdale (our future worship location) is holding a FREE vacation bible school later in July. This is a great opportunity for our kids to see and get used to the building and for us to get to know our "roommates" at Elim.
When: July 29 - August 2 from 6 - 8:30pm
Who: The program itself is for kids aged 4 through 5th grade, but they welcome older kids to sign up as helpers. So cool!
For more info and to register, go to www.elim-robbinsdale.org/vacation-bible-school


MP3EUR 12,60Cistercian Chants · Vespera de Beata Maria Virgine
Gregorian & Cistercian Chants
A Vespers of the Cistercian Order in the 13th century with works by Monastery Maulbronn, Cistercian nuns of the monastery Las Huelgas and Cistercian Antiphonary from Morimondo
Vox Nostra Ensemble: Winnie Brückner (Soprano), Philipp Cieslewicz (Countertenor), Christoph Burmester (Tenor), Werner Blau (Bass), Burkard Wehner (Tenor & Music Director).
A concert recording from the church of the German UNESCO World Heritage Site Maulbronn monastery
DDD · Total playing time: c. 63 Minutes MP3 · 256 kBit/sec · 14 Tracks · Size: 119 MB
This is an absolutely beautiful performance
This is an absolutely beautiful performance. It is crisp it is authentic. The recording captures the ambiance of the Monastery. Vox Nostra is tops in my list. If your looking for Gregorian chant crab this before it ascends to heaven.
MP3EUR 11,70Gregorian Chants · Vox Nostra · Veri Solis Radius
Veri Solis RadiusGregorian chants from the 12th & 13th century, performed by the Vocal Ensemble Vox Nostra:
Musical networks in medieval Europe
Amy Green · Susanne Wilsdorf · Ellen Hünigen
Werner Blau · Burkard Wehner (Musical Director)
A concert recording from the church of Cistercian Abbey in Eusserthal (Germany).
DDD · Duration: 59 Min. 36 Sec.
MP3 · 320kBit/sec. · 13 Tracks · Booklet
courtesy of webmatter.de


A woman bought a piece of needlework at a craft fair. The piece read, “Prayer Changes Things.” Proud of the handiwork she hung it above the fireplace in their living room. A few days later she discovered the prized piece missing. When questioned, her husband admitted taking the needlework down. “Don’t you believe in prayer? she inquired. “Yes, I do,” the husband responded. “I believe in prayer. I believe it changes things. But I don’t like change so I took it down.”
A lot of people don’t like change. I suppose it really is human nature to be uncomfortable with change, especially when it is not in our control. People don’t like change and the change to which we tend to be most resistant is change in us. As a pastor and observer of people I’ve seen people choose to lose their job, destroy their marriage, or go to jail rather than change themselves.
Change is often extremely difficult. Some people are more resistant to change than others. I’ve even known people who would rather die than change. You probably know someone who has been told by their doctor they need to change their diet are they will die prematurely, and yet they fail to change. Change is difficult but there is good news.
Change is possible. Do you recall the story of the Apostle Paul? He had been a ferocious persecutor of the early church. However, after his encounter with the risen Christ he became the greatest human influence on Christianity. Most of us have known someone who has experienced radical change in their life. What happens to bring about truly transformational change in our lives.
You have to want to change. Members of Alcoholics Anonymous insists that people don’t change until the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change. The first of the twelve steps is “We admitted we were powerless over our addiction–that our lives had become unmanageable.”
We can change if we have a vision of something better. There is a wonderful scene in the Karate Kid movie where Daniel is visiting Mr. Miyagi who is trimming a bonsai tree. Miyagi encourages Daniel to work on the delicate little tree. Daniel, however, is reluctant. He doesn’t have a clue about how to even start trimming the tree. Mr. Miyagi encourages Daniel to close his eyes and envision what he wants the tree to look like. After Daniel has a picture of the trimmed tree in his mind, Mr. Miyagi instructs him to open his eyes and go to work. But then, Daniel asked, “How do I know my vision is correct?” Mr. Miyagi replies, “If the picture comes from your heart, then it must be right. Just trust your picture.”
If we need to make some changes in our lives we should start with a clear vision of those needed changes. But how do we know the vision is right? How about this? Picture in your mind what Jesus looks like. Of course, I don’t mean his physical appearance. I’m talking about his compassion, his patience, his humility, his gentleness, his empathy and understanding. I’m talking about his willingness to serve and even to die for others. We can change if we really want to, if we have a clear vision of who we want to become. But one more thing.
God can change us if we are willing to surrender our will to God. The Apostle Paul had a life-changing encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus. From that day on Jesus was the Lord and Master of Paul’s life. He went where Jesus called him to go and did whatever he was called to do, often at great personal sacrifice.
I read once that when Earl Weaver was manager of the Baltimore Orioles he would charge at umpires shouting, “Are you gonna get any better, or is this it?” Perhaps God is asking you the same question. Are you gonna allow God to transform your life, or is this it? You can change if you really want to. If you are willing to focus your vision on Jesus. If you are willing to allow Him to become the Lord and Master of your life.
So, what’s all of this got to do with changing America. I suppose you are probably on to me by now. It’s really quite simple. America won’t be changed by electing a different president or members of Congress or having newly appointed judges on the Supreme Court. America will be changed when you and I change. It will be changed, not when political parties change, but when hearts are transformed and men and women across this great land put on the mind of Christ, learning to love our neighbor, like the example set by the man from Galilee.
QUESTION: What changes do you need to make in your life? Are you willing to trust God enough to surrender your will to His in order to be transformed?


Ready to give up?
Chris Einwechter is a gifted and passionate speaker, who makes complicated bible topics seem simple.
The message that Pastor Chris Einwechter has to tell us about prayer is a penetrating and convicting message to every Christian. He gives the church the scriptural encouragement to pray and gives examples from his own life, of the evidence of Gods mighty hand at work, in the life of one who prays. God has a more effective prayer life for you than you have ever thought possible. And Pastor Chris can show you how!
All photography provided by Jared Chambers


The widespread and varied influence of the Bible in Ireland beyond religious contexts has been documented in a new publication edited by academics at DCU.
The volume, entitled Ireland and the Reception of the Bible: Social and Cultural Perspectives, explores how the Bible has been an important factor in the social and cultural dynamics of Ireland, beyond just religious environments.
The volume explores the role played by the Bible in politics, language and translation, identity formation, as well as the arts. A number of contributors from DCU, as well as leading scholars in Ireland and elsewhere, are featured.
According to Brad Anderson, co-editor of the volume and lecturer in the School of Theology, Philosophy, and Music at DCU:
“When people in Ireland think of the Bible, they often picture a dusty Bible on their granny’s shelf, or a huge book on a church altar that is far removed from daily life. In reality, however, the Bible’s role in our world is much more complex. The Bible is inextricably linked with various social and cultural dimensions, from identity formation and politics, to language and literature. Nowhere is this clearer than in Ireland.”
Providing snapshots ranging over a millennium, this book shows the Bible as being deeply embedded in Irish life. Stand-out historical examples of how the Bible has pervaded non-religious contexts in Irish culture and society include:
- History and identity: Medieval Irish writings such as the Book of Invasions interwove characters and events from the Bible when creating a history of the Irish people. In this telling, the Gaelic people trace their lineage back to the Old Testament, all the way to Genesis;
- Classical music: The most famous association of the Bible with music in an Irish context is Handel’s Messiah having its first performance in Dublin in April 1742;
- Visual imagery: The Book of Kells is the most famous Bible in Ireland, and the imagery of this volume has woven its way into Irish culture: from the rounded script that has become synonymous with Ireland, to the interlace patterns and Celtic knots found everywhere from tourist information to Irish passports;
- Literature: James Joyce may have parted ways with Catholicism, but his literary imagination was profoundly shaped by the church of his youth. One of the enduring images of Ulysses is of Bloom fleeing from a pub like the Old Testament prophet Elijah ascending on his chariot;
- Politics: In Irish politics, the Bible is usually thought to be the preserve of Ulster Unionists. However, while Irish nationalists may be less likely to quote biblical verses, two of the leaders executed in 1916, Pádraig Pearse and Joseph Mary Plunkett, saw their deaths as sacrifices by analogy with the crucifixion. Their appeal to the Bible was indirect, but ultimately grounded in the biblical story. The fact that the 1916 Rising took place on Easter Sunday had profound implications for the fusion of nationalism and Catholicism in the popular imaging in the first half of the 20th Century.
Commenting on the significance of the new publication, Jonathan Kearney, co-editor and lecturer in the School of Theology, Philosophy, and Music at DCU, said:
“Pope Francis is visiting an Ireland that, in recent years, has undergone dramatic changes regarding the place of religion in culture and society. The Pope’s visit provides a timely opportunity to explore the role that the Bible has played in shaping the landscape of Irish culture and society through the centuries, a relationship this book suggests has always been complex.”


Dante's Inferno, Canto 2: “But the PILGRIM begins to waver; he expresses to Virgil his misgivings about his ability to undertake the journey proposed by Virgil. His predecessors have been Aeneas and Saint Paul, and he feels unworthy to take his place in their company. But Virgil rebukes his cowardice and relates the main of events that led him to come to Dante. The Virgin Mary took pity on the Pilgrim in his despair and instructed Saint Lucia to aid him. The Saint turned to Beatrice because of Dante’s great love for her, and Beatrice in turn went down to Hell, into Limbo and asked Virgil to guide her friend until that time when she herself would become his guide.”
Mark Musa, “The Portable Dante”
I had an aversion to drawing Dante and Virgil, minimizing them or avoiding them altogether until mid-way through “Inferno”. This left me with nothing left to draw but depicting Dante’s angelic attractors, Mary, St. Lucia and Beatrice. Since the goad driving Dante on his quest is Eros, I chose to play that aspect up instead of pretending chastity.
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Lately, the Bishop of my church has emphasized to the congregation the importance of keeping our commitments both to our fellow man and the Lord. His stated intention is to help us improve our integrity over the next two months.
The principle of commitment is of great importance both in the spiritual and temporal worlds and we are measured by our degree of integrity in both ecclesiastical and professional/social realms. I believe we are always rewarded spiritually for keeping our commitments both to the Lord and fellow man. Often times, we are rewarded temporally for keeping our temporal commitments.
I intend to document all of the commitments I have made, both publicly and privately, so as to be able to scope the expectations of me by both Divine and non. By so doing, I hope to better understand my level of integrity and identify areas for improvement. I quote from the letter:


|Church Events: (2-14-14)|
|Written by Sentinel-Tribune|
|Friday, 14 February 2014 08:22|
Women's retreat set
The 2014 Sovereign Grace Baptist Association Women's Retreat is set to be held at Lemoyne Baptist Church, March 21-22. Trish Ramos will lead the program using the theme is "The Four Keys to Joy."
There will be four messages: one on March 21 with two on the final morning and the last that afternoon. The church is located at 25020 Bradner Road. Cost is $35 if paid by March 7. The cost is $45 after that date.
For more information, call the church at 419-837-5408.
Public invited to open house
HASKINS - The Haskins Community Church is extending an invitation to its "Bring a Friend" Sunday open house at the church this Sunday.
Rev. Jennifer Jackson, pastor of the church says the event is "a time when people who are 'church shopping' can come and get a feel of what we at HCC are all about."
Worship is at 9:30 a.m. with a reception following at the church, 209 W. Main St., Haskins.
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Article 4: Church Discipline
Discipline is a censure or correction that is required of the church by Scripture for the purpose of maintaining Biblically essential church conduct. Matthew 18:15-20 specifies the procedures and purposes of church discipline. Church discipline comes in two basic kinds. Informal discipline includes self-discipline, overlooking in love the failings of others, and the admonition of brothers and sisters in Christ when necessary. Formal discipline is to be overseen by the Elders. When a case warrants, the elders are to bring it to the electors of the church where public sanctions are to be applied through a two thirds majority vote (2 Corinthians 2:6). Excommunication is to be a public declaration of the church resulting in the removal from office and/or membership. All members and officeholders are subject to the disciplinary process. All members are responsible to submit to the will of the body in cases where separation or excommunication become necessary (1 Corinthians 5:1-6:11; 2 Corinthians 2:1-11.) Excommunication shall be ended when, in the opinion of the elders, the one under discipline has been restored through repentance. The elders shall publicly announce the end of the disciplinary action to the church. Any excommunicated officeholder who is restored must undergo re-election before again holding office of either deacon or elder.


One of the most well-known landmarks in New York City is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which is situated in Midtown Manhattan. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, and because of its exquisite design and minute details, it is one of the most popular and esteemed places of worship on earth. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is undoubtedly a must-see attraction for anyone traveling to New York City because of its fascinating history and magnificent features.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s Origins
Midway through the 19th century, as New York City’s Catholic population was expanding quickly, St. Patrick’s Cathedral was constructed. John Hughes, the first Catholic bishop of the city, was instrumental in advancing the cathedral’s construction. Hughes, a charismatic individual and tenacious defender of Catholics’ rights in America, saw the construction of St. Patrick’s Cathedral as a means of establishing the Catholic Church’s presence and power in the area.
James Renwick Jr., a well-known architect at the time who was devoted to Gothic Revival architecture and known for his inventive use of materials, created the cathedral. When designing St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Renwick drew inspiration from some of the magnificent cathedrals in Europe, such as Notre Dame in Paris and Westminster Abbey in London, and he incorporated many of their distinguishing characteristics.
The cathedral’s construction started in 1858 and was finished in 1878, but it wasn’t dedicated until 1879. The cathedral’s enormous stone walls and lofty spires were engineering marvels at the time, and the structure quickly came to represent the authority and sway of the Catholic Church in America.
The St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s Architecture
The stunning stained glass windows in St. Patrick’s Cathedral are among its most striking features. The 3,000 stained glass windows in the cathedral were created by some of the best craftsmen of the day, including the renowned French glassblower Jean-Baptiste Leduc. The windows’ exquisite details and deep hues, which depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints, are truly breathtaking.
The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive. The cathedral’s nave, which is 330 feet long and 90 feet wide, exudes awe and reverence with its towering arches and intricate carvings. The white Carrara marble high altar of the cathedral is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship, and the skill of the artists who created it is evident in the fine details and delicate carvings.
The spires of the cathedral are another noteworthy aspect. A copper statue of St. Michael the Archangel, created by American sculptor John Angel, sits atop the main spire, which soars 330 feet above the ground. The statue serves as a reminder of the cathedral’s homage to St. Michael, who serves as the archdiocese of New York’s patron saint.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral tour
Every day of the week, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is open to visitors, and entrance is free. Visitors are welcome to explore the cathedral’s many stunning features or to attend Mass, which is offered several times daily. For those who are interested in learning more about the history and architecture of the cathedral, guided tours are offered.
One of the best times to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral is during the Christmas season, when the cathedral is decked out in its holiday finery. Thousands of people gather each year to witness the lighting of the Christmas tree, which is a beloved New York City tradition that takes place on the steps of the cathedral.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is not only a stunning structure but also a significant representation of New York City’s past and the Catholic faith. The cathedral has hosted numerous significant occasions throughout its history, including the funeral of President John F. Kennedy in 1963 and the visit of Pope Francis in 2015.


What to Expect
We love visitors, and you are welcome and invited to join us for our services.
Every worship service, we try and make sure that you can hear both God’s Law and his Gospel, that is, his will for our lives and his love for us in Jesus. Our Sunday morning services at 8:00 am and 10:30 am are traditional, organ-led worship services (occasionally incorporating guitar or piano leadership), following the Lutheran liturgy. The order of worship, liturgy, and song lyrics are posted on the screen at the front of the church. In our worship, we want God’s Word to be heard, telling of his works done for us and for our salvation. Singing and telling of what God has done is to his greatest praise and glory. Whichever service you attend, at Trinity Lutheran, you’ll hear God’s Word and his will for your life, but especially, you’ll hear of his amazing love for you in Jesus.
What time does worship start?
Our traditional services begin at 8:00 am and 10:30 am on Sundays. Occasionally service time will change, such as Christmas and Easter. Additional services are also held during the seasons of Advent and Lent. – typically Wednesday morning at 10:00 am, and Wednesday evening at 6:00 pm, preceded by a family meal.
How do people dress?
God doesn’t care about your external appearance. Whether you like “Sunday best” or casual, you’re welcome.
What about my kids?
Bring them! While we encourage parents to do their best to remain in the sanctuary with their children, we realize there are times when it becomes difficult. We certainly do not want you to feel uncomfortable and so the children’s nursery is a great alternative when needed. You can still hear and see the service from the room. It is located just outside of the sanctuary. An usher will be happy to direct you.
Does Trinity offer Holy Communion at worship?
Yes, we celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion on the 2nd, 4th and 5th Sundays of the month at both services. We believe that the sacrament of Holy Communion is a gift of Christ to His Church. However, all who receive this gift must first examine themselves concerning matters of Biblical faith and Godly living. “A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.” 1 Corinthians 11:28 (NIV) Therefore, prior to celebrating Holy Communion, we ask that you prayerfully consider the following:
- Do I believe that I am a sinner without hope of eternal life except for God’s mercy offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ?
- Do I repent of my sins in thought, speech and behavior?
- Do I believe that Jesus Christ is God’s Son and my personal Savior?
- Do I believe that Jesus Christ is personally and physically present in the sacrament of Holy Communion with His body and His blood?
- Do I desire by the power of the Holy Spirit and the instruction of God’s Word to live a life pleasing to Him
We believe your “Yes!” to these questions affirms a common faith with confirmed Lutheran Christians and is you invitation to the Lord’s Table of Holy Communion. We encourage non communing children to accompany their parents for a personal blessing.