My Son - the Pastor
Rob Shepherd - Husband, Pastor, Author
Kill the Jerk
"The two biggest takeaways for me in this book were: "Intentional relationships don't just happen," and....sometimes... the "jerk" is me. This is a must read!"
- Shay Moore
Jerks are everywhere, and most of them have access to a computer. Whether it's neighbors, family, coworkers, bosses, social media, or people we go to church with, all of us know someone who is a jerk.
Typically, we try to confront or ignore jerks, but is there a better way?
Kill the Jerk is for anyone looking to improve their relationships. Most people want healthy relationships, but few people are willing to do what it takes to have them. With humor, practical application, and a desire to honor God, Kill the Jerk offers a nonviolent way to have relationships that thrive.
Even If You Were Perfect, Someone Would Crucify You
"That is what is great about Rob - he is real, vulnerable, and up-front about anything and everything. He won't try to act high and mighty like some pastors and won't be afraid to admit his mistakes or sins." - Amazon review
One day after preaching a sermon, Rob Shepherd opened a letter filled with hurtful words about how awful his sermon was. Even if you preached the perfect sermon somebody would crucify it, Rob heard a still small voice say. That thought began the process of setting him free from being a people-pleaser.
With humor and great conviction Rob shares his story of learning to care less about what people say and more about what God says.
Even If You Were Perfect Somebody Would Crucify You uncovers what our real struggle is when it comes to pleasing people. You can be set free from the fear of saying "no" to people, win the battle with avoiding confrontation, learn the power of confession, and find your true identity: in Jesus.
You Misspelled Christian
"If I submitted my life to Jesus for some grammatical feedback, I'm afraid he'd run out of red ink." - Jeff Mingee
Does the word "Christian" make you - or everyone around you - cringe?
How did the idea of what it means to be a Christian become so distorted in modern church culture that we've lost sight of its original purpose - to live as Jesus Christ did?
Pastor Rob Shepherd takes a humorous, but poignant look at how the focus of Christianity has shifted to be more self-focused, rather than Jesus-focused, and takes readers back to the essentials of Christ's original message: to love God and love others!
With practical lessons and relevant spiritual insights, Shepherd offers relief for those weary of the "Sunday morning march" and who want to experience a true renewal of the heart and soul, restoring the original definition of what it means to live as a follower of Christ.


The Porter Brothers are the multi-talented sibling team of Dr. Tecoy Porter Sr. and Dr. Ellington Porter. They have served as Senior Pastors of the Genesis Church since August 1999 and leaders of the Genesis Youth Explosion Conference and Choir since its inception in 1992.
The Genesis Youth Explosion Choir is the citywide youth choir of the Genesis Youth Explosion Conference (GYEC) founded by Dr. Robert Porter, founder of the Genesis Missionary Baptist Church in Sacramento CA. The choir is made up of an average of 100 youth and young adults between the ages of 5 to 25 years old from the Sacramento, CA region. The GYEC is a summer weeklong conference that provides instruction in the development and practice of Gospel Music, Church Media, and Fine Arts. In August of 2017, GYEC celebrated 25 years with a Live Recording featuring songs written and developed by The Porter Brothers, instructors and past participants from the conference. This is the second live recording from the GYEC with their first released in 2001.
The MLK Celebration Choir is a citywide multicultural choir made up of over 100 voices representing churches of various denominations, cultures, and color throughout the Sacramento region. The choir is under the direction of gospel recording artists and Pastors, Dr. Tecoy Porter Sr. and Dr. Ellington Porter Sr. aka The Porter Brothers. Regularly featured at the annual MLK Worship Celebration, the MLK Celebration Choir has become a very popular group in the city performing at such events as the MLK March for the Dream Sacramento, NBA Sacramento Kings’ Faith & Family Nights, Sacramento River Cats' Faith & Family Nights, former Mayor Kevin Johnson’s State of the City Address, Sacramento's Hometown Heroes Parade, and at the inaugurations of Mayor Darrell Steinberg and Police Chief Daniel Hahn.


“As He was setting out on a journey, a man ran up to Him and knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone.
“You know the commandments, ‘DO NOT MURDER, DO NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, DO NOT STEAL, DO NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS, Do not defraud, HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER.’” And he said to Him, “Teacher, I have kept all these things from my youth up.”
Looking at him, Jesus felt a love for him and said to him, “One thing you lack: go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But at these words he was saddened, and he went away grieving, for he was one who owned much property” ( Mark 10:17-22).
This young man could have been the 13th disciple of Christ! What an invitation, but at the mention of the requirement to become a “steward” rather than an “owner,” he balked and left.
But he left too soon.
Jesus requires that same thing of anyone who would follow Him… to no longer be “owners” but rather “stewards.” What I have is no longer my own. My life, my mind, my computer, my skills and my talents are no longer “mine.” I may use them and enjoy them, but they are His! My abilities, my money, even my potential… all are no longer mine, but His to use for His purposes only.
But here’s the interesting thing about it all… this “could-have-been disciple” left too soon. He didn’t read verse 29 and 30! It defines those who have left if all to follow Him. Read what it says!
Jesus said, “Truly I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or farms, for My sake and for the gospel’s sake, but that he will receive a hundred times as much now in the present age, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and farms, along with persecutions; and in the age to come, eternal life.
You see, when you give everything into His hands, you don’t lose a thing! When you follow Him, He takes what you have and He actually multiplies it back for you to steward. He did that with the feeding of the multitudes. He took all they had: two fish and five loaves. And when we give Him our store of what we once “possessed,” He will bless it, break it, and multiply it back!
Nothing we ever give Him is wasted. It is multiplied, but that can only happen if we relinquish “ownership” and receive the assignment of “stewardship.”
So, here are the questions:
- Do I want ownership, or do I want fruitfulness?
- Do I want to control a molehill or steward a city, a state, a nation?
- Do I want to possess a mud hole or dwell in His temple?
- Do I want to hoard for my myself my own Zippo lighter, or do I want to dwell under His Glory?
I think I will opt for stewardship rather than ownership, and follow Him!
“Father, all I have is yours. How glad I am to give you my feeble remains in order that I may gain your eternal treasures. Nothing I relinquish is ever lost, but if I hang onto it, it will be. In your hands, it is multiplied! I will use what I have been given as a steward and for Your purposes. In Jesus Name, Amen!”


Empower the Community: Our First HPM Potluck
stories • worship • fellowship
Saturday November 9th • 11:00am-1:00pm
Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. Psalm 34:3
Together is the key word - Let's make a big deal out of things Jesus does in our lives: together. We were meant for community. We were meant to do life together. When things get hard in life, we tend to retreat, shut down, close doors and do life alone. This verses says: Glorify the Lord (WITH ME; LET US) exalt his name TOGETHER.
Hitching Post Ministries is a safe place where you can come and share stories of your life. Share your gifts with those in need. Let us exalt HIM TOGETHER of the great things He is doing!
This will be our first Hitching Post Ministries Potluck. Happy Fall Y'all.
RSVP to email in contacts.
Last name starting with A-K: side dish Last name starting with L-Z: dessert
Call to Action
Do you want to use your time, talent and treasure to make the biggest impact for the Kingdom? Hitching Post Ministries' goal is to raise $10,000 by December 31, 2019 without holding a fundraiser. We want our friends and family to be our biggest advocates, and to give generously for His Kingdom purposes. So that others will KNOW HIM!
Our Mission: Pairing hurting kids with rescued horses to provide hope and healing.
The families we are serving are from churches, foster/adoptive families, or CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), single moms & kids, and kids who have experienced trauma. We believe your time, talents and treasure will make the biggest impact for the kingdom in their families lives.
These families will get to come to the Ranch of Rescued Dreams for free because of your tax free donation
Your financial donations will be used for: •Program fees &equipment needs: games, snacks, paperwork, training, etc. •Horse care: feed, ferrier, vet, supplements, tack, gear, and overall care •Insurance •Maintenance
How to Give
1. Donate through paypal or our website. (Click the 'Donate Today' button below) 2. Host a party - gather friends & family and Erica will come share HPM vision & stories (Click the 'Contact Us' button below) 3. Become a volunteer for HPM. (Click the 'Contact Us' button below)
Blessings, Brad & Erica Davis Hitching Post Ministries


Welcome to St. Peter’s / San Pedro Episcopal Church in Salem! We are delighted to introduce you to our diverse parish community. Founded in 1733, St. Peter’s / San Pedro Episcopal Church has a rich history of Christian worship and service in and around Salem.
We are blessed to be a diverse community of faithful Christians who gather weekly to praise God and pray for and serve our world in the name of Jesus Christ through the Episcopal Church, a member church of the Worldwide Anglican Communion. We do this in two languages to serve our vibrant community of English speaking and Spanish speaking members who worship together through the Episcopal Church. We hope you will find the information we have shared here helpful to get to know us, and through it, to experience our warm and heartfelt invitation to you to join us no matter where you are on your personal journey of faith.
If you would welcome the opportunity to have a personal introduction to our community, please call our priest to set up a time to visit. Otherwise, please join us any Sunday, week day or at any of our community service events to learn more about who we are and how we can live, pray and serve God together.
The vestry is the governing body of every Episcopal parish. It is composed of parishioners elected by the membership to plan for and address the business needs of the parish. Our four officers that include the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, Treasurer and Clerk lead the vestry. In addition, several other parishioners are elected each year to serve as vestry members. We are blessed to have a talented and energetic vestry whose commitment to the God, our faith and the membership is evident in everything they do.
At St. Peter’s / San Pedro Episcopal Church, our leadership includes:
- Wendy Spoto, Senior Warden
- Ana Nuncio, Junior Warden
- James Sweet, Treasurer
- Daniela Estrada, Clerk
- Heidi Milman, Vestry Member
- Rhadamés Reynoso, Vestry Member
The Reverend Nathan Ives serves as Priest in Charge at St. Peter’s / San Pedro Episcopal Church. He has weekly office hours Tuesday through Friday by appointment. Nathan is a bilingual priest who works full-time at St. Peter’s / San Pedro. A native of Rockport, Massachusetts, with an accent to prove it, Nathan loves lobster, gardening, birdwatching and sailing. He and his wife, Mary Anne, and daughters, Lena and Nora, live in Rockport.
Our Office Staff
Our volunteers help us to keep our parish administration in order. Thank you volunteers!


Evolution and religion are difficult to reconcile, making for difficult diner-time conversation. But Pope Francis has broken the ice by making a bold statement, as he is known to do: you can believe in God, evolution and the Big Bang Theory.
As a Catholic, this sparked my interest into Pope Francis’ reasoning, and how both sides, the scientists and the faithfully religious, would react.
I grew up believing, and still do believe, that God created the universe. Not just the Earth, sun and moon. I believe He created the galaxies, even the ones we as humans have yet to discover. I believe there is a reason we have been making more and more discoveries of outer space, because God gave us the talents and skills to figure all this out.
The Big Bang Theory is a complicated theory to understand, especially if you are not an astrophysicist, like Steven Hawking. Even Hawking, an outspoken atheist, said in a presentation at the University of Cambridge that there is a probable higher power or force of intelligent design behind the making of the universe.
On the flip side, there are astronomer-priests that confirm that indeed, the Big Bang Theory is real. Reverend Monsignor Georges Lemaitre was a physicist, astronomer, mathematician and, that’s right, a Roman Catholic priest. He was the first to propose the theory of the expansion of the universe. It was actually Lemaitre who, in the 1920s, proposed the Big Bang Theory we all know today. Lemaitre laid footprints for scientists, such as Hawking, to continue advancing the knowledge we have of the creation of the world.
Fast forward to 2017. Pope Francis, one of the most outspoken, controversial, progressive Popes the Roman Catholic church has had, addressed the Pontifical Academy of Sciences in November of 2016. This academy is made up of scientists assigned by the Pope, regardless of religious affiliation, to work on scientific theory.
“When we read about creation in Genesis, we run the risk of imagining God was a magician with a magic wand, able to do everything,” Pope Francis said in his address. “But that is not so. The Big Bang, that is placed today at the origin of the world, does not contradict the divine intervention, but exacts it.”
Now, unless you are a Sedevacantist (a traditional Roman Catholic who does not believe in the mainstream Pope) or a very traditional Catholic, Francis’ statement is agreeable. For me, a progressive Catholic, I see no problem in the belief of both universal expansion theories and God. At the same time, I can understand why scientists and atheists strive to keep God out of the picture. We live in a world in which the amount of religious believers is shrinking, and the overall attitude is a secular one. I suppose scientists figure they should keep out something that most people do not agree with or believe anyway.
However, I think it is impossible to ignore God’s role in the creation of the universe. As theology teaches us, it is too big of a mystery for humans to be able to completely solve, for it is taught that God’s being is so much of a mystery that we will never be able to fully grasp it until we are with Him in heaven.
Pretty cool, huh?


A web hub for communication among mission participants, mission-related groups, sharing ideas and experiences
PRESBYTERIAN PEACE FELLOWSHIP
An advocacy and action-oriented organization promoting nonviolence, peacemaking, and the abolition of war.
HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH
Neal’s family supports Human Rights Watch which is dedicated to protecting the human rights of people around the world. We stand with victims and activists to prevent discrimination, to uphold political freedom, to protect people from inhumane conduct in wartime, and to bring offenders to justice.
RELIEF BUS MINISTRY
This awesome ministry that operates out of Elizabeth but serves communities in Newark, NJ and New York City provides food, friendship, and referrals for the hungry. Middlesex Presbyterian Church participates in this hands-on ministry and supports an urban missionary.
Neal’s family sponsors a child in the Philippines through this ministry. After several years of correspondence, their family was able to visit him, his family and their church.
MIDDLESEX PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
The multicultural congregation that Neal has been privileged to serve for the last nine years.
PRESBYTERIAN WORLD MISSION
Engaging with global mission partners, training and sending of mission co-workers.
A platform for collaboration of weekly worship planning.
THEOLOGY AND WORSHIP
Providing theological and worship resources for congregations, church officers, worship planners.
ECUMENICAL AND INTERFAITH
Learning about the PC(U.S.A.)’s ecumenical and interfaith relationships, and ways to get involved.
CALVIN INSTITUTE OF CHRISTIAN WORSHIP
An excellent resource for planning worship and preparing for preaching.
Connecting with and supporting theological seminaries.
PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES
Connecting with and supporting our colleges and universities.
PRESBYTERIAN CAMPS AND CONFERENCE CENTERS
Connecting with and supporting our camps and conference centers.


Medieval Ethiopian Kingship explores why Ethiopian kings pursued long-distance diplomatic contacts with Latin Europe in the late Middle Ages. It traces the history of more than a dozen embassies dispatched to the Latin West by the kings of Solomonic Ethiopia, a powerful Christian kingdom in the medieval Horn of Africa. Drawing on sources from Europe, Ethiopia, and Egypt, it examines the Ethiopian kings’ motivations for sending out their missions in the fifteenth and early sixteenth centuries – and argues that a desire to acquire religious treasures and foreign artisans drove this early intercontinental diplomacy. Moreover, the Ethiopian initiation of contacts with the distant Christian sphere of Latin Europe appears to have been intimately connected to a local political agenda of building monumental ecclesiastical architecture in the North-East African highlands, and asserted the Ethiopian rulers’ claim of universal kingship and rightful descent from the biblical king Solomon. Shedding new light on the self-identity of a late medieval African dynasty at the height of its power, this book challenges conventional narratives of African-European encounters on the eve of the so-called ‘Age of Exploration’.
media coverage, interviews & reviews on the book include features in the Smithsonian Magazine, BBC History Podcast, the Medieval Podcast, Al Jazeera China, Spiegel Geschichte & New York Review of Books.
The book is currently being translated into Amharic and Tigrinya.
Most of the introduction and first chapter of the book are available to browse on Google Books here.
or read it on this page by clicking through the images below!
Freely available PDF sections of the book
- Front Matter (including Maps, Acknowledgements, Note to Reader, and Table of Contents) is available through SpringerLink here.
- Back Matter (including A Brief Glossary of Terms Relating to Ethiopian History, Bibliography and Index) is available through SpringerLink here.


- Deacon: 12- and 13-year-old young men are deacons, and they belong to the "Deacons' Quorum." Deacons have primary responsibility for passing the sacrament (the bread and water) during Sacrament Meeting on Sundays (think of Sacrament Meeting as Mormons' version of Mass). One deacon is selected by the men who work with the quorum to be the quorum president, and he in turn gets to select two counselors from among his peers. The presidency gets to design the pattern for the passing of the sacrament and to decide which deacon takes which part of the pattern (think of the the pattern as the equivalent of a play in a ball game: each boy passes the bread and then the water to a section of the chapel based on the number he is assigned). Mormons love efficiency, so there can be constant redesign and improvement of the pattern. Deacons also collect fast offerings. On the first Sunday of every month, called "Fast Sunday," Mormons are expected to go without food and water until the Sunday block of meetings has ended. As part of the fast, they are asked to give as "fast offerings" whatever money they would have spent on the meals (generally breakfast and lunch) they have skipped. They can do this at church (there are little envelopes by the bishop's office precisely for this purpose), but deacons are also sent door to door on that Sunday to collect the offerings. When I was a deacon, we were told not to look to see how much people gave, but it was easy to do since the envelopes were closed with a string fastener much like an interdepartmental office envelope. Needless to say, I peeked from time to time. I often noted how some inactive Mormons who never came to church and likely never skipped a meal would still let us come to gather fast offerings and would give a generous amount, whereas some holier-than-thou regulars at church would give a pittance, but would present it to us as if it was a great offering.
- Teacher: 14- and 15-year-old young men are teachers, and they belong to the "Teachers' Quorum." There are also a couple of men assigned to work with the teachers, and one of the teachers is chosen as the president, who in turn gets to select counselors. Teachers have two primary responsibilities, both relating to the sacrament. First, they take care of the preparation and clean-up of the sacrament. This means that they bring the Wonder bread to church and place it in the trays for the group of young men just older than them to break, bless, and give to the deacons during the sacrament portion of Sacrament Meeting. They also place the tiny cups (made from paper when I was young, but mostly from plastic these days) in the trays with the tiny cup holders, and then fill them with water. They place both the bread and the water trays on the sacrament table and cover it with a white cloth. Then, after Sacrament Meeting, they clean the trays and store them. As a side note, Mormons don't guard or babysit the leftover sacrament (as do Catholics their Holy Eucharist). Teachers just pour out the leftover water and dump the leftover bread. Except on Fast Sundays, when some of them (or at least some of my fellow teachers and I, when I was that age) would eat the leftover bread because we were SO HUNGRY! Second, teachers close the doors to the chapel when the sacrament is prayed over and passed during Sacrament Meeting. This is to discourage entrances to and exits from the chapel during this most sacred part of the meeting. Just the same, if someone has to go to the bathroom or has a crying baby, teachers let them by.
- Priest: 16- and 17-year-old young men are priests, and they belong to the "Priests' Quorum." As is the case with deacons and teachers, a couple of men work with the priests. What is unique about priests, however, is that one of the men who works with them within the quorum is the bishop of the ward, and it is the bishop who is the president of the quorum. The bishop will select two priests to serve as his assistants (first and second). Priests' primary responsibility is to break the sacrament bread and to say the set prayers that are delivered over the sacrament before it is passed by the deacons. Ordinarily Mormons do not use set prayers, but these particular prayers were revealed to Joseph Smith as special sacrament prayers, and they are recorded in a collection of his revelations called Doctrine and Covenants, which Mormons consider to be scripture. The prayers have to be delivered exactly as the prophet received them, except that the original prayer for the second portion of the sacrament says "wine" instead of "water" (early Mormons used wine for the sacrament until Joseph Smith received a revelation about food and drink called the Word of Wisdom, which forbade wine). I have to admit that I wondered a time or two when I was a priest about why God didn't realize that he was going to forbid wine when he gave Joseph the prayer that had to be recited exactly as written. It was almost as if God wanted to confuse us, or to see whether we were smart enough to substitute "water" for "wine" if we were reading the prayer from Doctrine and Covenants. Luckily, by the time I was a priest, printing and laminating were common with church members, so we could always use a printed and laminated copy of the prayer that only said "water." I figured God gave us printing and laminating in order to fix the confusion (or help the less smart priests). As Mormons like to say, God will never test us beyond what we can handle!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Talk like A Mormon: Moving through the Ranks - Young Men
12 is an important age for Mormon boys. It is the age at which a male may be ordained to the first office in the lower or preparatory priesthood, called the Aaronic Priesthood (after Moses's brother Aaron, who, according to the Bible, was the first man ordained by God to be a priest in the temple). Mormon boys from the ages of 12 through 17 are said to be part of "Young Men's," short for "The Young Men's Organization." They are generally referred to this way only in the collective sense ("the young men" or "Young Men's"); an individual boy is not referred to as a "young man" when talking about his rank. (Mormons do use the term "young man" in the same sense that the term is used generally by the English-speaking world). Instead, an individual from "Young Men's" would be identified by the rank he holds within the Aaronic Priesthood, and ranks correspond to age groups. The ranks are:


Easter Sunday, 1890
n the early light of dawn, Joseph Merrick was already awake and excited. All through the dark days of Lent and Holy Week, he’d been looking forward to this day. While he loved Christmas most of all, nothing held more promise of eternal joy than Easter.
In his short years on earth, Joseph had already suffered more than most had in an entire lifetime. Jeering derision and cruel mockery had dogged his steps all through childhood. Then there were the years of horror in the workhouse, and traveling in the sideshows, baring his twisted body to gawking audiences as the Elephant Man. That had been tolerable, as he had been able to save a good bit in hopes of buying his own little house someday. Then a cruel manager had taken Joseph to Belgium and stolen every penny he had after their exhibit was closed by the police. Penniless and starving, Joseph had made his way back to London. His only hope was to find Dr. Frederick Treves, whose card he had after being exhibited to a group of anatomists two years before. Treves had rescued Joseph from a raging mob at Liverpool Street Station and had taken him in at the London Hospital.
Sheltered in his comfortable rooms here at the London, visited by royalty and lesser known friends, Joseph had learned to fit into his new life. There were times when he yearned for the old life on the road, especially with Tom Norman, the “Silver King.” Tom had watched over him like a father and treated him as a friend. Joseph missed that independence and wished he didn’t have to live on charity, but times had changed. He needed constant physical care now and he was growing weaker with each passing day.
These days, Joseph was always weary and perpetually in need of rest. Some days he was tempted to go to his eternal rest. It would be so easy. All he would need to do was lie flat on his back. The weight of his head would most likely snap his neck, and God would take him home.
Meanwhile, today was a day of celebration. Joseph turned back the covers and carefully maneuvered his bulky feet onto the floor. He reached for his walking stick and slowly stood up. His huge head lolled to the right and nearly threw him off balance. Lately it had felt so heavy he could barely walk straight. Everything was a struggle nowadays.
Eating, dressing, even walking in the little hospital garden took a supreme effort.
The floorboards felt chilly as he hobbled to the washstand. Splashing cold water on his face made him gasp but thoroughly woke him up. He made little wheezing noises that passed for chuckles. For the thousandth time, he wished he could laugh and smile like other people. It was so hard to show his pleasure because of his constricted jaw and mouth. He had to convey his feelings through his eyes and voice.
Someone knocked at the door, and he called as clearly as he could, “Come in.”
Nurse Ireland came in with a breakfast tray, neat in her cap and apron. She was his favorite nurse, for she took the time to talk to him and didn’t scurry off as soon as possible.
“Good morning, Mr. Merrick. How are you?” Her kindly blue eyes smiled at him as she set down the tray on his table.
“I’m still here, Miss Ireland.”
She laughed. It was his usual response. “Yes, I can see that. I’m glad, to be sure.”
As Joseph ate his bland hospital porridge, the nurse prepared his morning bath. When he had first arrived, baths were a terrifying and embarrassing ordeal. He had struggled against being handled so intimately by women. It was even more humiliating because his flesh gave off a revolting stench. But the nurses’ calm, efficient ministrations had settled him down and the frequent baths themselves had miraculously rid him of the terrible odor.
Now he looked forward to the warm, soothing water. The nurse helped him climb into the wooden tub and sluiced the water down his back. As she ministered to him with deft hands, he closed his eyes. He never told her that sometimes he would imagine she was his wife, tenderly massaging his tortured skin and whispering words of comfort in his ear…
The bubble always burst when she handed him the brush and said politely, “I’ll see to your linens now, Mr. Merrick.”
As he finished washing, he could hear the nurse moving about, changing the sheets and piling up the pillows he needed to prop himself up at night. She called, “I expect you’ll want your Sunday best suit.”
“Oh yes!” With a sloshing of water he stood up and laboriously dried off. Piece by piece, Nurse Ireland helped him don the specially tailored suit he was so proud of. Trousers, white starched shirt, vest, coat, tie, and to top it off, a spotless handkerchief in the left breast pocket. She stood back to admire her handiwork.
“You’re quite the gentleman, Mr. Merrick. I wish I could escort you to the services today.”
“Not today?” he asked in dismay.
She shook her head. “No, today I’m going home to spend the holiday with my family.”
“Oh. Well, I daresay I can’t blame you. I would too.”
The nurse looked at him closely. She had learnt his speech almost as well as Mr. Treves, but lately it had grown harder to push the sounds out of his distorted mouth. Joseph tried again.
“I can’t blame you, Nurse.” He tried to keep the disappointment from his voice but she heard it anyway.
“I’m sorry, Mr. Merrick. I promise I’ll take you next Sunday.”
The words rose to the tip of his tongue. I may not be here by then. But she was his good friend, and he didn’t want to upset her.
Nurse Ireland gave his tie one last tweak. “You’ll hardly miss me, not with all those other lovely ladies.”
“You’re right.” Joseph went along with the joke for her sake.
The nurse held out her left hand. “Good-day, Mr. Merrick. Have a very Happy Easter!”
They shook hands warmly, and he said, “Thank you, Miss Ireland. Happy Easter to you too.” Then she was gone.
Joseph sat down in his special armchair and opened his Bible. In the pink light from the window, the words glowed like a medieval manuscript.
After the Sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning,
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb.
And suddenly an angel of the Lord…came and rolled away the stone.
Do not be afraid; I know you are looking for Jesus who was crucified.
He is not here, for he has been raised, as he said.
Suffering and death. The glory of the risen Christ. Memories of Eastertide in his mother’s humble church came back to Joseph. Despite the stares as he limped in with the family, he was always blissfully happy there. The peaceful hour seated next to his mother, her familiar scent filling his nostrils. The hymns of celebration rising to the rafters. His favorite one was “Christ the Lord is Risen Today.”
Lives again our glorious King
Where, O death is now thy sting?
Made like Him, like Him we rise
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies. Alleluia!
A gentle knock at the door brought Joseph back to the present, and he called, “Come in.”
A young man in a crisp tan porter’s uniform stepped into the small room. Joseph didn’t recognize this one, but that wasn’t unusual. They came and went more quickly than the nurses. Some were rogues and drunks, but most were decent.
“Good morning, ah…Mr. Merrick?” He spoke with a faint accent that Joseph couldn’t quite identify. “I’m to take you to Easter services this morning. Will that be all right?”
Joseph nodded. His visitor had gentle brown eyes, not unlike his own, and dark curly hair. With steady hands he helped Joseph don the voluminous black cloak and mask he must always wear to protect the world from his deformed features.
“Shall we?” The porter’s speech was surprisingly refined for someone of his station. He held out his arm.
They went outside and made their way up the steep steps to the courtyard known as Bedstead Square. Here the hospital stored its broken beds that needed cleaning and refurbishing. It was not the most direct route to the chapel but it kept Joseph from view of the other patients.
“Beautiful morning, isn’t it?” remarked the porter. “The rains let up just in time.”
Joseph felt too shy to speak, so he nodded agreement. They made their way towards the back wing of the hospital, but instead of going indoors, the porter paused.
“It’s early yet,” he said. “Would you like to walk in the garden?”
“In the daytime?” Joseph had never been allowed to go outside by day. Mr. Treves was afraid he would cause a riot similar to the one at Liverpool Street Station all those years ago.
“Why not?” The stranger smiled. “I’m with you today.”
He steered Joseph onto the path towards the back garden. As they passed under the windows of the patients’ wards, Joseph shook with apprehension, feeling as exposed as a crab on an empty shore. He could almost feel the horrified stares cutting into him like daggers.
They made it to the garden successfully and Joseph allowed himself to savor the dewy air. A faint hint of green along the box hedges made his heart beat faster with joy. Every winter he wondered if he would ever see spring again, and here it was.
Along the path, the first crocuses were poking up, but Joseph’s favorites were the fragrant yellow daffodils. They could be beaten down by a fierce storm but they always clung to life and bravely bloomed.
The porter followed his gaze. “Nice little flowers, daffodils. You can tell spring is really here when they come up.”
“You know, I’ve heard good things about you, Mr. Merrick.”
His companion smiled. “Folks say it cheers them up just to be around you.”
Joseph shook his head in disbelief. “How?”
“You’re so well-read and have such interesting things to say. Must be all the books you read.”
With a hint of irony, Joseph answered, “I have all the time in the world.” The porter nodded, though Joseph couldn’t tell whether he had understood or was merely being polite.
Instead, he remarked, “There’s more to it than that. You’re a special person.”
Joseph thought, That’s one way of putting it. He’d had enough of being ‘special’ when it came to people screaming and running away at the sight of him.
As if reading his thoughts, the porter went on. “Oh, I don’t mean because of your— well, your condition. It’s more like a light of goodness in you that touches people—“ he tapped his chest. “Right here.”
Astonished and a bit embarrassed, Joseph stammered, “I try my best.”
“Listen to me rambling on,” the stranger said. “Sometimes I don’t know when to stop.” He chuckled.
They walked slowly in silence. Joseph had never seen the garden by daylight before. The tapestry of colors dazzled his wondering eyes. He felt like a newborn babe seeing the world for the first time.
As they reached the outer border of the garden, Joseph grew nervous. He’d never gone this far before. Weariness crept through his twisted limbs and he wasn’t sure he could walk much further. He turned to the porter.
“Please take me back,” he enunciated carefully.
“Feeling tired, sir? Whatever you wish.”
They turned their steps homeward. The porter offered his arm again and Joseph gratefully accepted it. Usually he treasured his independence, but something about this young man made him want to lean upon his strong arm for support and even comfort. How could it be? Most of the porters treated him with friendly boredom or bored friendliness, not tender concern.
The chapel bells rang out through the crystal-clear air as they drew close to the hospital walls again. By now, the sun was high enough to bath the flowers and grass in golden light. They could have been in Eden.
“Who are you?” Joseph asked his companion. “I’ve never seen you before.”
“Oh no? I’ve been here all along.” The young man smiled.
As they approached the entrance to the hospital, Joseph’s cane slipped in a patch of mud and he lost his balance. He teetered precariously, terrified. One fall could snap his neck and be the end of him.
In a flash, the young porter caught him in a strong grip and steadied him. “Easy, Mr. Merrick. I’m here for you.”
Joseph stammered, “Th-thank you.” As he drew deep sobbing breaths, it came to him that he wasn’t ready to die just yet. There was God’s blue sky above him, the promise of the new flowers around him. There were all those loved him, and especially Mr. Treves.
They managed to get to the chapel without further incident, though Joseph’s knees were weak and shaky and his steps were halting. The porter said patiently, “You take as long as you need, sir.”
At the door, Pastor Valentine met them, resplendent in his white robes. “Good morning, Mr. Merrick,” he said heartily. “A very Happy Easter to you!”
“And to you, Reverend.”
The minister said, “I’m delighted you’re here for our early service. But how did you come here alone?”
Puzzled, Joseph said, “I didn’t.”
His spiritual mentor was usually adept at understanding him, but today his brow furrowed with equal puzzlement. “I see no one with you, Joseph.”
Joseph turned to the young man who had guided him safely to God’s house.
He was gone.
All through the Easter service, as Joseph sat unseen by the others in the vestry, he tried to make sense of what had happened. Someone had brought him to the garden and caught him when he fell. As the beloved hymns of praise filled the chapel and Reverend Valentine’s sonorous voice proclaimed the glory of Christ’s resurrection, Joseph kept hearing
the mysterious young man’s words.
“I’ve been here all along. I’m here for you.”
During the Benediction, Joseph bowed his great head in prayer. A sudden chill ran down his spine. Could it be? Impossible! And yet…he could still feel the stranger’s strong arms steadying him and that calm Presence around him. Tears began to stream down his cheeks.
No matter what befell in the days ahead, he would never be alone.


Love Songs on the Journey
Poems and reflections on the journey to and with God.
The purpose of this book is to explore the mystery of love, beginning with God. Life's journey is the awakening and struggle to bring God, Jesus, Spirit; into the center of one's life. We walk to God, more importantly with God, in every step.
Joseph Guion invites readers to reflect on the love relationships in these book sections:
Book One Wandering Songs of Love, God's Love, Personal Love, Nature and Life Changes.
Book Two Weeping Songs for September 11, 2001 and Church Illness.
Book Three Journeying on Songs the journey continue


We believe in the purpose, passion, and possibility in everyone we serve and each of our teammates.
Our single purpose is to create a new, bountiful experience of aging for all those we have the honor to serve.
The Wesleyan is a ministry of health and aging services, and everything we do is dedicated to nourishing mind, body, personal relationships and spirit. We create a community among those we serve and serve with, where life is lived abundantly every day.
Our passion for your abundant life is present in all the ways we serve you.
From the leadership team to our teammates who serve you every day, passion for an abundant life is present even in the smallest details. It’s seen in our familiarity with the lives of our residents, because we know them. It’s seen in dining room staff who know exactly how a resident likes their iced tea and where to place the glass at the place setting. It’s seen in our knowing the name of a new pet being walked on one of our trails. Most importantly, it’s seen in our commitment to those we serve, supporting them in pursuing their joys and passions, every day.
Abundance is possibility.
We understand that change is inevitable in life, and our faith in possibility means that while we are realistic about life’s challenges, we are never limited by them. We know that challenges can be transformed into blessings with the active support of a community of neighbors and teammates committed to pursuing the possibilities that are always available to us.
The Wesleyan has been championing abundant living for Georgetown and Central Texas since 1962.
“I get to come to work every day and no matter what the day brings, I know something we do today makes a difference to those we serve. I get to learn from their incredible stories and experiences. Not only does it give me perspective, it fills my heart to do what I do.”
– PETRINA ROSE
LVN, Wellness Director
“Within a week of moving to The Wesleyan, I found a community of faith. I see God’s hand in putting me around the right people at the right time.”
– J. WILLIAMS
Become part of The Wesleyan ministry.
The hallmark of The Wesleyan is the tangible connection between our teammates and those we serve. Our commitment to abundant living includes everyone who is part of The Wesleyan.
We hope you’ll consider becoming part of our ministry as a volunteer or as the next step in your career.


Exciting testimonies that give glory to the Lord!
A Sozo session is a time for the Sozo team to sit down with you and with the help of the Holy Spirit walk you through the process of freedom and wholeness. Sozo is not a counseling session but a time of interacting with Father, Son and Holy Spirit for wholeness and pursuing of your destiny.
Want a Sozo session? Contact: Jill@supernaturalhouseofprayer.com
Click Here For More Info!


CHRIST & CULTURE: ENGAGING THE CULTURE FOR THE GOSPEL
Sometimes one feels like Odysseus in “The Odyssey” as he tried to navigate his ship through the Strait of Messina. On one side he had a six-headed monster called Scylla; on the other a massive whirlpool named Charybdis. Both nautical paths would prove to be a disaster of some kind. If only there was some strait between to avoid the seemingly impossible situation that he found himself.
The strait that we in the 21st century is increasingly finding more and more difficult to navigate successfully is the strait of culture. The Judeo-Christian worldview that was once generally accepted, then tolerated, is now under assault. Those of us who hold a high view of Scripture believe in absolute truth and adhere to a moral and ethical standard derived from the Bible are considered more than just old-fashioned. We are now considered mentally ill, enemies of progress, even evil.
We are not, however, the first generation to wrestle with a hostile culture. Seventy years ago, a seminal book was written by Richard Niebuhr titled “Christ & Culture.” The book was intended to be a contribution to ethics but has come to be regarded as the standard for any discussion on how the Christian faith relates to the culture. Niebuhr shows Christians historically have taken differing positions on how to relate to the culture in which they lived.
One way is the Scylla called “Christ Against Culture.” Niebuhr describes these Christians as those who view culture as evil and are against culture in the sense that they seek to separate themselves totally from it. These are sects that have moved through the years to monasteries or set themselves apart from culture. I call this a Scylla because this separatist mentality runs contrary to the cultural mandate found in passages like Matt. 5:13-16. The church cannot respond by gathering in holy huddles and trying to simply hold the fort until Jesus comes.
Another way is the Charybdis called “Christ of Culture.” Niebuhr describes these Christians as those who view culture positively and are of culture in the sense that they not only accept it but seek to participate with it. These Christians do not see their faith in conflict with cultural trends. These are going to be represented by what is often referred to as liberal Christianity. These are Christians who openly accept the modern cultural views of gender identity, sexuality, and abortion, just to name of few.
Though this Christianity might be easier to hold within the culture, I call it a Charybdis because it is a blatant rejection of Biblical revelation. Sometimes it is claimed that this is done in the name of love, but it is most certainly an unbiblical love if it is void of truth.
The safe path for us to seek to travel is called “Christ Transforming Culture.” Niebuhr describes these Christians as those who understand the tension of living in a world that contains many accepted cultural norms that are contrary to the Kingdom of God. At the same time, this Christian does not seek to abandon culture or accept it but rather seeks to penetrate and engage it with the Good News of the Gospel. It is not the easiest path, but it is the Biblical one.


Welcome to the Guildford Methodist Circuit website.
Welcome to the website of the Guildford Methodist Circuit. Our Circuit, has 6 churches located in Guildford, Godalming and Cranleigh and surrounding villages in Surrey.
You can be assured of a warm welcome at any of our places of worship, so please feel free to join us. Our churches vary in both physical size and congregation but all have regular services and social activities.
On the churches page, please click on the church picture. This will take you to their site or page with more details about that church, and see our current Circuit Plan for exact details of forthcoming services


About the Men's Ministry
President Scott Curry
Treasurer Dave Meachum
Secretary Wayne Evancheck
The Men’s ministry is here to enable the men of the church as well as men in our community that are like minded fellowshipping with one another. We are committed to lifting up and supporting all in our church and community for the glory of God. We also assist and support the Women’s Ministry in their activities slated for the church.
We meet the second Monday of each month September to April at Jimmy's Restaurant in beautiful downtown New Port Richey (6211 Grand Blvd) at 8:30 am for breakfast. This is a great time outside the church to refresh, recharge and fellowship with other men in the church and the community.
We continue to trust in the faithfulness of God’s promise. We look to include all men in our church. If you are not currently on the mailing list and would like to be added or would like more information, use the contact us page and specify that you want to be contacted about the Men's Ministry.


Romsey Abbey - A Potted History
The church: The Abbey Church of St Mary and St Ethelflaeda (more commonly known as Romsey Abbey), Romsey, Hampshire, England.
Denomination: Church of England.
The building: In AD 907 King Edward the Elder settled some nuns on this spot under the charge of his daughter. Ethelflaeda, the nunnery's second abbess, was a saintly woman to whom several miracles were attributed, and whose acts of sanctity reputedly included chanting psalms whilst standing naked in the River Test at night. The present building dates from about 1120 and is a fine medieval building with large windows and a well lit interior reminiscent of larger cathedrals across England. Classic Norman arches in the hard, cream coloured, freshwater limestone known as Binstead stone tower above the large nave.The rood is particularly famous, and the building attracts all kinds of visitors eager, I suppose, to see a quintessentially English church building. They are not disappointed. A recent survey by the Daily Telegraph named Romsey Abbey as among the 100 best loved places of worship in England.
The church: At its height the nunnery housed about 100 women, but the Black Death reduced their number to 19. The Abbey entered a period of shared use as the local parish church and was thus spared demolition during Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. By the time of the Puritans the nunnery had been suppressed and the building's fabric had undergone major changes. Today the Abbey remains the largest parish church in Hampshire and is affiliated with the Greater Churches group. The parish sponsors numerous societies and its congregation numbers many of the local great and good. Lord Mountbatten (who was killed by an IRA bomb in 1979) is buried inside the church.
The neighbourhood: The Abbey is the heart of the small market town of Romsey, a very middle class town to the southwest of Winchester. Romsey enjoyed a prosperous wool trade in earlier times, followed by a thriving brewing and papermaking industry. During the 19th and early 20th centuries Romsey was famous for the manufacture of collapsible boats, including lifeboats used on the Titanic, among other vessels.


Michelle Diana Sheppard, age 54, of Wooster, went home to go dance with Jesus, Tuesday, December 18, 2018 at the Cleveland Clinic where she was surrounded by her loving family.
To send flowers in memory of Michelle Diana Sheppard (Ditmars), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.
She was born on January 6, 1964 in Wooster to Allan D. and Janet M. (Moorhead) Ditmars and has been a Wayne County resident for all of her life.
Michelle married Mark A. Sheppard on May 15, 1987 in Shreve. He survives.
She had worked as Plant Accountant for ADS, Inc.(Advanced Drainage Systems) in Wooster for over 31 years; was a member of Wooster United Methodist Church where she also served as youth leader; belonged to the Heart Of Ohio Emmaus and Chrysalis Community; was very involved and supportive with her sons lives which also included a Cub Scout Leader. She mostly loved spending time with her family and friends.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her sons, Murphy A. (Laura) Sheppard and Mackenzie A. (Molly) Sheppard all of Wooster; brothers, Michael (Stephanie) Ditmars of Millersburg, Mark (Aimee) Ditmars of Wooster and her faithful canine companion, "Jethro".
Her parents precedes her in death.
Visitation will be Friday at Custer-Glenn Funeral Home, 2284 Benden Dr., in Wooster from 2 -4 and 6 - 8 p.m.
Services will be Saturday, 12:00 p.m. at Wooster United Methodist Church where a visitation will also take place one hour prior (11:00 - 12:00 p.m.) to services. Pastor Jim Cooper will officiate followed by interment at Shreve Oak Grove Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to either: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Donor Services, P.O. Box 98108 Washington DC 20090-8018 or Hope Lodge, 11432 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH.
Faith was very important to Michelle and she was a "faithful child of God".
Words of private or public condolences may be shared on the family wall at: www.custerglenn.com.


" . . . They will soar on wings . . ."
I was at church yesterday, sitting outside at the edge of the pond just praying, asking the Lord to help me be more willing and trusting to surrender my life to Him, and He did! He did by showing me what it was like to just let go, and afterwards I felt much more able to start taking those steps to surrender. While I was sitting there praying and enjoying the breeze, a flock of birds (much smaller than the bird in the picture) swooped down from the trees and started flying around the pond. Then they started gliding around, spreading their little wings and just floating along with the breeze. Sometimes they would come so close to the water that I thought that they would just fall right in with delicate little splashes! And then after being close to the water for a while, they would glide through the fountain, up into the sky, and then come back down to do it all over again.
Rarely did they ever flap their wings. The birds were just surrendering to the wind, letting it take them wherever it went. I really want to be like that, spreading my wings and soaring as the Lord promises in Isaiah 40:31. I can safely say that my life becomes a completely trashed, unorganized mess whenever I try to conduct it. It just doesn't work for very long! But it's during those times that I just give in to the Lord and let Him take me, I find myself being more loving towards others and just closer to the Lord. People seem to think that giving control to God means becoming His captive or His slave. No, giving control to God is what sets ourselves free from ourselves. By ourselves we are sinful, needy, controlling, stressed out and a whole bunch of other stuff. With God, however, we are sinless, our needs are fulfilled, we give up control, and I personally find myself less stress. That's freedom!
At the lake, there were some times when the birds would flap their wings which I found interesting. A while back ago I was in a group discussion and someone mentioned the Lord being like our Father taking us into an ice cream shop. My mom, best friend and I went out for ice cream just after I got my drivers license. My mom didn't choose what flavors of ice cream my friend and I got - we got to choose. God is the same way sometimes. Sometimes He will let us choose what we want to do and where we want to go in certain areas of our lives. Whether or not we make the wiser or better choice, the Lord is with us, reminding us that He is there, He is proud, and that if it wasn't the better choice, that He will make up for it. That's like the birds pausing in their gliding every now and again to flap their wings and choose their own course for a while. They didn't flap for long, though. After a while they would glide again with the wind.
It was beautiful! I wish that I could go back and watch the birds fly all day and night long. But I'm content with the message God sent to me through them, and I am very thankful. I thought I would share this in hopes that it would encourage you as more or even more than it encouraged me. Thanks for reading!


Bought for my dissertation on the Anabaptists, and found this book invaluable. Over primary sources from a range of writers on a range of topics, but consistently features writings from the main characters on most subjects, so you can get an idea of one person's view on a variety of topics, or a range of people's view's on one by: Anabaptists (meaning "re-baptizers") represent a radical Protestant tradition tracing its history to the 16 th century C.E. reformer Ulrich Zwingli. The Anabaptists were distinct because of their. Four hundred seventy years ago the Anabaptist movement was launched with the inauguration of believer's baptism and the formation of the first congregation of the Swiss Brethren in Zurich, Switzerland. This standard introduction to the history of Anabaptism by noted church historian William R. Estep offers a vivid chronicle of the rise and spread of teachings and heritage of this important 5/5(1). The Anabaptist Story was not a highly influential book for me to read. I found it a difficult book to engage in because there are so many different fragments of the Anabaptist story. The book seemed to jump from Switzerland to Germany to the Netherlands without much connection/5.
Anabaptism synonyms, Anabaptism pronunciation, Anabaptism translation, English dictionary definition of Anabaptism. n. An adherent of a Protestant religious movement that began in 16th-century Europe, viewing baptism solely as an external sign of a believer's conscious. Buy a cheap copy of The Anabaptist Story: An Introduction to book by William R. Estep. Four hundred seventy years ago the Anabaptist movement was launched with the inauguration of believer's baptism and the formation of the first congregation of the Free shipping over $Cited by: Since Anabaptism did not ever had the advantage of being a state religion, it was a minority religion with a small following. Most people persecuted Anabaptists. While the Book of Common Prayer satisfied the general public, "authorities continued to be troubled by the more extreme Anabaptists. Although the Anabaptists were primarily a thorn. Anabaptism began in Switzerland in Historians have traced many sources for this movement. But it seems that they all centered on one main issue: a radical commitment to Luther's idea that the Bible is the only source of religious truth.
Anabaptist, (from Greek ana, “again”) member of a fringe, or radical, movement of the Protestant Reformation and spiritual ancestor of modern Baptists, Mennonites, and Quakers. The movement’s most distinctive tenet was adult its first generation, converts submitted to a second baptism, which was a crime punishable by death under the legal codes of the time. An Anabaptist Prayer Book We invite you to share in a form of prayer that originated in the earliest Christian times and has continued through the centuries. The distinctive Anabaptist flavor of this collection of daily prayers is evident in the predominance of Jesus' voice, the space for communal reflection on scripture, and the specific. David Joris and Dutch Anabaptism, Gary K. Waite Snippet view - All Book Search results » About the author () Gary Waite is a professor of history at the University of New Brunswick and holds his doctorate from the University of Waterloo. Get this from a library! The Anabaptist story: an introduction to sixteenth-century Anabaptism. [William Roscoe Estep] -- Four hundred seventy years ago the Anabaptist movement was launched with the inauguration of believers' baptism and the formation of the first congregation of .


San Juan Festivity
San Juan Festivity
Throughout the year in our beautiful country there are many festivities, including those of the mountains and the jungle; The most remembered and well-known festivities are those of the carnivals in Coya and the Fiesta de San Juan, precisely in this we have a good moment to be able to think and remember all the history that brings us thanks to the news and historical data.
Here is a brief summary of these festivities:
Every June 24 this festivity is celebrated because homage is paid to San Juan Bautista, patron saint of the departments of San Martín, Loreto and Ucayali. And it is because of the faith of its inhabitants that with great joy and fervor each year they dedicate this impressive festival to it. According to a new bill, it has been declared that, as of 2022, this date will be a non-working holiday for the departments of Ucayali, Loreto, San Martín, Amazonas, Madre de Dios and Huánuco.
What is the history of the feast of San Juan?
To talk about this festivity we must go back to colonial times, when a group of missionaries named Saint John the Baptist as the patron saint of the Peruvian Amazon, in commemoration of his birth. And since this biblical character was responsible for the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, until now there is a very strong connection between the festival and water, which is why it is celebrated in fountains, rivers and lagoons. In the early years, the religious ceremony was accompanied by meetings that were characterized by warmth and jungle joy, where music and dances were present. In the 20th century, this festival became official, being celebrated in many locations apart from those mentioned.
Where is the feast of San Juan celebrated?
It is celebrated in different cities and towns in the Peruvian jungle, but some of the favorite tourist places are Loreto, Madre de Dios, Ucayali, Tingo María and San Martín. Next, we will tell you how to live in each of these departments so that you can choose where to celebrate the next Fiesta de San Juan.
During the San Juan festival, Ucayali celebrates with typical bands and the best of regional cuisine. It should also be noted that traditionally in the days prior to the Fiesta de San Juan, the Regional Fair of San Juan takes place, in honor of the patron saint of the Amazon.
In this Peruvian department, the festival of San Juan is also celebrated in a special way, with different rituals that have the devotees of the area as protagonists. One of them is “the blessed bath”, which is carried out as purification one day before the central date in the local rivers.
On the central date of the festivity, the entire town congregates in San Juan, a place that hosts the masses in honor of the main saint of the celebration.
Processional routes in which typical bands from the region pay homage to the patron saint are also part of the festival.
Tour of interest
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Biblical Israel - Faith-Based Travel – Protestant Itinerary
Building fellowship and community among fellow travelers is just one of the ways to connect spiritually on this biblical tour of Israel. Experience the power of Scripture as it comes to life with memorable visits to Nazareth, Bethlehem, the Sea of Galilee and Jerusalem. Take time to meditate by the Garden Tomb and visit the Kaser-El-Yahud baptismal site.Jerusalem is dense with holy sites, tied to both the Old and the New Testament: King David’s Tomb, the Garden of Olives, the Church of the Holy ...
Cosmos travelers know travel. And they know what’s important once they reach their destination – the sights, the scenes, the locals and the legends. So we get them exactly where they want to be, from the City of Brotherly Love to the City of Light; from the Great White North to Northern Africa and from amazing South America to stunning Switzerland, no other travel company matches our expertise, on-trip experiences – with a great mix of included excursions and free time – and value.
|1||Tel Aviv, Israel|
|2||Tel Aviv – Jaffa – Caesarea – Muhraqa – Megiddo – Tiberias|
|3||Tiberias. Excursion To Kibbutz Ginosar, Capernaum, Mount Of Beatitudes, Tabgha & Caesarea - Philippi|
|4||Tiberias – Cana – Nazareth – Qasr El Yahud – Jerusalem|
|5||Jerusalem. Excursion To Bethlehem|
|7||Jerusalem. Optional Excursion To Qumran, Masada & The Dead Sea|


A two-day itinerary of Zurich cannot be considered complete without visiting St Gallen and the four amazing cathedrals in the city. The itinerary on day 2 is largely focused on covering these four cathedrals along with Abbey of St Gallen. While you walk around the city visiting the top tourist attractions, check out the fantastic restaurants offering some of the world’s best fine dining experience and the chocolate shops offering a wide variety of Swiss chocolates.
Itinerary of things to do in Zurich (Day 2):
08:00 am - 09:00 am: Travel by train to St Gallen
09:00 am - 11:00 am: Abbey of St. Gall (also known as St Gallen)
11:00 am - 12:00 pm: Travel by train to Zurich
12:00 pm - 01:00 pm: Lunch
01:00 pm - 02:00 pm: Grossmunster cathedral
02:00 pm - 03:00 pm: Fraumunster cathedral
03:00 pm - 04:00 pm: St. Peter’s cathedral
04:00 pm - 05:00 pm: Predigerkirche church
05:00 pm - 06:00 pm: Walk along Lake Zurich
06:00 pm - 07:30 pm: Travel by train to Lucerne
07:30 pm - 08:30 pm: Dinner
Start your day around 8:00 am in the morning from Zurich train station and board the train to St Gallen. Walk for about 10 minutes to get to Abbey of St Gall, the home of St Gallen cathedral and library. The cathedral is from 8th century A.D. and is truly a crown jewel of St Gallen. Plan to spend about an hour inside the cathedral followed by about 30 minutes inside the library. From the library, head over to St Gallen station to board a train back to Zurich.
After you grab some lunch, it is now time to explore the four major churches in Zurich. Start off with Grossmunster, a Romanesque style Protestant church in the banks of Limmat river. Spend about 45 minutes at the church. Walk for 5 minutes from here to reach Fraumunster. Pay special attention to the Chagall and Giacometti stained glass windows in the church. Spend about 30 to 45 minutes here.
Walk for about 4 minutes to reach St. Peter’s church, a Romanesque and Gothic style church located right in the downtown. This happens to be the oldest parish church in Zurich. You can still see the foundation walls beneath the chancel. From St. Peter’s church, walk for about 7 minutes to reach Predigerkirche church, a Romanesque style Dominican church in downtown. As you wrap up your visit of churches for the day, spend the evening walking along Lake Zurich for some great scenery.
If you are following the 7-day itinerary of things to do in Switzerland, head over to Zurich train station and board the train between 7 pm and 8 pm to Lucerne. The ride lasts 50 minutes in a high speed train. After you reach Lucerne, head over to your hotel and rest well to get ready for a very early start on day 3.
Itinerary for other days of Switzerland vacation
(Click on each link to explore the detailed itinerary for each day)
Day 2: Things to do in Zurich - St. Gallen and Grossmunster


Sunday Services Via Zoom Every Week at 11:00am
Our celebration of diversity is reflected in the variety of our Sunday services.
We hope our services enrich your journey.
Together we will share this sermon which was delivered on Sunday, July 2, 2017, at All Souls Unitarian Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, by Bishop Carlton D. Pearson.
Beautiful music and a powerful message that rings true today.
In March 2004, after hearing Pearson's argument for inclusion, he was declared a heretic by his peers of Pentecostal Bishops and rapidly began to lose his influence in the evangelical fundamentalist church. Today he is Affiliate Minister at
All Souls Unitarian, a gospel artist, and author of many titles including The Gospel of Inclusion.


At the beginning of 2016, God gave us a specific instruction to “Build the walls” on the foundation we laid in Transforming Kids. We realised that we have to focus on going deeper spiritually with the children and expand the development of the Values Programmes we implemented at the schools which enrolled in the character development programme.
We wanted to also reach the parents and community leaders, adding new schools and invest in building the walls at current schools. To do that we need to create awareness, raising funds and build partnerships in the different communities.
Therefore we decided to invest in marketing and training in 2016. We are currently empowering Transforming Kids staff on a holistic level – Spirit, body and soul – Building the walls of the team to ensure personal spiritual growth to minister more effectively.
Transforming Kids staff also made a pact that we will teach and lead by example and stand on the truth of God’s word. We are going through an exciting time of renewal and building, but it is in the same breath quite challenging, because there is a warning in God’s word to the builders – Each person needs to be careful how he builds.
First, there is only one legitimate foundation (Jesus Christ); none other can be laid. Second, everything a person builds on this foundation will be tested by fire – This will test the quality of what he has built.
Paul tells us in the Bible that it is God who is responsible for the ultimate success of these endeavors. Therefore we would not take the credit for ourselves, it is only by His grace!
Thank you for all the support we receive from our partners, without you we would not be able to “Build the walls”.


Nothing is impossible: Sunday Readings Advent 4 (Y-not question the Sunday Readings)
Fourth Sunday of Advent B
December 18, 2011
Reading I: 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16
Responsorial Psalm: 89:2-3, 4-5, 27, 29
Reading II: Romans 16:25-27
Gospel: Luke 1:26-38
First Reading from 2 Samuel 7
When King David was settled in his palace,
and the Lord had given him rest from his enemies on every side,
he said to Nathan the prophet,
"Here I am living in a house of cedar,
while the ark of God dwells in a tent!"
Nathan answered the king,
"Go, do whatever you have in mind,
for the Lord is with you."
But that night the Lord spoke to Nathan and said:
"Go, tell my servant David, 'Thus says the Lord:
Should you build me a house to dwell in?'
"'It was I who took you from the pasture
and from the care of the flock
to be commander of my people Israel.
I have been with you wherever you went,
and I have destroyed all your enemies before you.
And I will make you famous like the great ones of the earth.
I will fix a place for my people Israel;
I will plant them so that they may dwell in their place
without further disturbance.
Neither shall the wicked continue to afflict them as they did of old,
since the time I first appointed judges over my people Israel.
I will give you rest from all your enemies.
The Lord also reveals to you
that he will establish a house for you.
And when your time comes and you rest with your ancestors,
I will raise up your heir after you, sprung from your loins,
and I will make his kingdom firm.
I will be a father to him,
and he shall be a son to me.
Your house and your kingdom shall endure forever before me;
your throne shall stand firm forever."
Gospel Reading from Luke Ch 1:
The angel Gabriel was sent from God
to a town of Galilee called Nazareth,
to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,
of the house of David,
and the virgin's name was Mary.
And coming to her, he said,
"Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you."
But she was greatly troubled at what was said
and pondered what sort of greeting this might be.
Then the angel said to her,
"Do not be afraid, Mary,
for you have found favor with God.
"Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,
and you shall name him Jesus.
He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High,
and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father,
and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever,
and of his kingdom there will be no end."
But Mary said to the angel,
"How can this be,
since I have no relations with a man?"
And the angel said to her in reply,
"The Holy Spirit will come upon you,
and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.
Therefore the child to be born
will be called holy, the Son of God.
And behold, Elizabeth, your relative,
has also conceived a son in her old age,
and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren;
for nothing will be impossible for God."
Mary said, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.
May it be done to me according to your word."
Then the angel departed from her.
* * *
For the next three weeks in celebrating the mystery of Christmas I am going to immerse myself in its mythology. I will step outside the realms of dogma, biology, historical truth and the like, and live instead in a world of symbol and poetry, a fantastic world – a world of realities beyond the reach of formulated faith or experimental sciences.
In a way, I could illustrate what I am about by comparison with something almost its opposite. I could, if I were so inclined, spend the next three weeks engrossed in the cosmos through images from the Hubble telescope. The universe, it turns out, is not what it seems. The stars at night do not travel across the dome of sky above, weaving mystic patterns through astrological time. Through our great telescopes we can “see” new images of vast clouds swirling through space, of new stars exploding into life even as galaxies in their millions are sucked into black holes to be annihilated. After three weeks I could go back to work in the new year, a little more familiar with other dimensions, but comfortably at home again in my everyday 'reality'.
While I am living in this world of mythology I will not shut down my reasoning mind. Rather I will work it hard, following threads connecting primordial themes and everlasting values. We can only trace a few threads in the time it takes to read a page or two. To work!
Mark begins his proclamation of Jesus the Christ in a matter of fact way. John appears in the wilderness, and soon Jesus comes along with folk from Nazareth to be baptised. The story unfolds from there. So we ask, why did the compilers of the other gospels, especially Matthew and Luke, feel it was useful to create stories about the origins of Jesus?
We will stay with Luke's account, and look at it as pure mythology. The impact of this mythological introduction is to declare that the gospel of Jesus of Nazareth is nothing less than the proclamation of a New Creation, a New Covenant, a New Exodus and a New Presence of God with his people.
The agent of this newness is the spirit, the same spirit that hovered over the waters to bring order out where chaos ruled. The bible situates that “In the beginning...”. Luke's gospel starts “At that time...” to suggest that underlying his mythological scenarios there is an historical actuality that occurred in our time.
“An angel was sent from God...” These messengers have power, and speak with God's authority. It is as if the Lord were speaking directly to you.
“You will bear a son...” you will be a mother. Eve was called the first mother, mother of all the living. She and the man represent those “first” parents who learned that living means choosing, and that every choice is for life and death. When you give your consent a new order begins.
“You shall name him Jesus” which means saviour, like Moses who saved the people who had been slaves in Egypt for generations. Moses obeyed the voice of YHW, the One who makes things happen.
“He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father...” David, the shepherd boy who became the charismatic leader, the poet who danced before the Lord, the one who thought he should build a temple-house for the Lord, until he realised that the Lord does not dwell in buildings but in the hearts of women and men and their children, even in communities of like-minded people...
"The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will cover you with its shadow...” There is that hovering spirit again, that brings life out of the waters so that they no longer symbolise death but endless possibility. When Solomon, full of self-importance, eventually did build his temple to house the Ark of the Covenant, the Lord did not despise his efforts but came to dwell in it, and the whole sanctuary was filled with a cloud so that no man could enter in (cf. 2 Ch 7,14). As when Mary is filled with the spirit there will be no place for human claims to this one's greatness. This is entirely the God's work. “He will be called holy, Son of God.”
“...for nothing is impossible to God.” We are referred right back to Abraham whose wife Sarah was to have a child in spite of her old age (Gen 18,14). This is Abraham the father of all who believe/trust in the Lord. He followed an inspiration to leave home to find a new place for his own family. He is the one who thought he should make a sacrifice of his only son to the honour of his god, and learnt that the Lord is not pleased with parents who sacrifice their children!
“Be it done to me...” And Mary made the choice for motherhood with the heroism of every mother: whatever it takes, whatever it gives.
* * *
The New Creation begins with a young, inexperienced woman, puzzling over a destiny that was far and away beyond her normal expectations of what life might have in store.
He cam also stylle
to his moderes bowr
as dew in aprille,
þat fallyt on þe flour.
He came all so still
To his mother's bower
As dew in April
That falls on the flower
This verse comes from the late Mediaeval poem “I sing of a maiden”. I will post it as a separate entry.
* * *
Do I believe that such things happen, that young women conceive babies without intercourse, that old women become pregnant long after time? Wrong questions!
Do I believe that nothing is impossible with God? Yes.
Do I believe that every one of us is called to a destiny beyond our imagining? Yes.
that the power of the spirit fills with its shadow the one who says Yes?
that the Lord has done great things in me and still continues to do them?
that what may come from my trust and love will be holy, and may be said to be “of God”?
Yes to all.
Do I think that any of this is out of the ordinary? No.
Is it extraordinary, amazing, exciting and wonder-full? You bet it is!
Do I love Christmastide? Oh yes, like I love springtime, and new-born babies, and children fascinated with Santa Claus, bright paper wrappings, and contact with family and friends in our once a year celebration of all God's gifts.
Is it all myth? Of course it is, and it is poetry, and inspiration, and love - much like the things my lovely wife and I say to one another, and to our kids.
Is it practical? Well, it inspires me to make real efforts to be kind and generous and loving - the way I imagine "God" to be. Whadda y' reckon?
"A post is a free gift, and it will go where it pleases."'
- Nothing is impossible: Sunday Readings Advent 4 - Ynot, 2011-12-17, 11:45
- Nothing is impossible: Sunday Readings Advent 4 - Ian Lawther, 2011-12-17, 13:07
- Extraordinary - Jerome, 2011-12-17, 21:54
- Sorry, but I'm confused - CathyT, 2011-12-18, 05:40
- Sorry, but I'm confused - Francis, 2011-12-18, 09:17
- Quick note from Mocha & Lime - Ynot, 2011-12-18, 12:51
- Questions that can wait - TonySee, 2011-12-18, 15:24
- Sorry, but I'm confused - georgeh, 2011-12-18, 15:22
- That word, "mythology" - CathyT, 2011-12-19, 11:25
- That word, "midrash" - herbie, 2011-12-19, 12:14
- Nothing is impossible: Sunday Readings Advent 4 - Sue, 2011-12-19, 08:59
- Was the nativity story written by a woman? - Sue, 2011-12-20, 18:10


St. Joseph’s College of Law, Bengaluru is organizing its 2nd National Moot Court Competition in offline mode from September 23 to 25, 2022.
Established in the year 2017, St. Joseph’s College of Law is the pioneer Jesuit law college in South Asia that is strengthened with a 450-year-old legacy of imparting quality education through the Jesuit mission of molding students into ‘people of competence, conscience, and compassion dedicated to the service of faith and the promotion of justice.
- Students currently enrolled in either five years or three years LL.B. courses or LL.M. programs from any recognized university are eligible for participation in the competition.
- Teams may comprise a maximum of three members, wherein two members shall perform the role of a speaker, and one member shall perform the role of a researcher.
- No changes will be made to the team composition after registration without the express permission of the organizing body.
- Click on the link given at the end of this post to register.
- Registration Fee: INR 6,000 per team
- Last Date for Registration: August 29, 2022
- Last day to seek Clarification: September 1, 2022
- Release of Clarification: September 6, 2022
- Date of Submission (Soft Copy): September 15, 2022
- Opening Ceremony and Researcher’s Test: September 23, 2022
- Prelims Rounds, Octa Round, and Quarter Round: September 24, 2022
- Semi-Final, Final Round, and Valedictory: September 25, 2022
Disclaimer: All information posted by us on Lexpeeps is true to our knowledge. But still, it is suggested that you check and confirm things on your level.


Concordia Place Avondale
A small church with a big mission wanted to expand. The church learned about a former school and Catholic Church property which neighbors did not want to fall into the hands of private developers. We started the project by holding focus groups with local organizations and community members to learn about the needs in the community. That process generated a plan for redeveloping the property as a mixed-use community center offering early childhood education and care, as well as leadership, learning, and wellness programs for youth, adults and seniors.
The adaptive re-use of this former Catholic Church, School and Rectory has brought new stability and vitality to the residential neighborhood surrounding the small, urban campus. Our work included designing the gut renovation of the former church and school building and a multi-purpose meeting room addition. We developed the site to maximize outdoor play and learning, alongside community gathering activities.
In subsequent years Blender Architecture worked with the organization to optimize their use of the existing rectory building on the site, adapting the former priest residential quarters to house offices and a spacious board room.
Location Avondale, Chicago
Client Concordia Place, Concordia Lutheran Church and IFF
Client Representative Cotter Consulting
Landscape Architect McKay Landscape Design
Civil Engineer Terra Consulting
MEP Engineer Bob
GC Bulley & Andrews
Photography James Steinkamp Photography
Size 28,000 s.f.
Mixed-Use Community Center and Early Childhood Education Center
Maria Segal was the Senior Project Designer with Holabird & Root on this project


Welcome to the Presbyterian Student Fellowship at Wake Forest University, lovingly known as Presby!
Following Jesus’ example, Presby is an open and accepting ministry, welcoming students of all backgrounds and beliefs into a caring family. We hope to serve God by seeking peace, justice, and a healthy, thriving planet.
We have three main areas in our life together: study and growth; fun and fellowship; and working and serving -
STUDY AND GROWTH - We engage in Bible studies from such sources as Presbyterians for Restoring Creation and The Thoughtful Christian, invite guest speakers including local pastors and educators, and view thought-provoking documentaries such as the 11th Hour and Crossing Arizona. We also attend campus-wide events such as Encounter Point, a documentary and panel discussion about the Israel-Palestine situation.
FUN AND FELLOWSHIP - Every now and then we need to unwind and depressurize, so we have some fun with game nights (Catchphrase is a big request!), head out to the local mini-golf course, or hit the lanes for some bowling. We also have special fellowship by sharing some dinners with other groups on campus – early Thanksgiving Dinners with the Baptists, and Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinners and Maundy Thursday Tuesday Spaghetti Dinners with the Lutherans and Episcopalians.
WORKING AND SERVING - Learning and having fun is fine, but we are also called to go out into the world, beyond the Wake bubble, and serve each other. Presby takes part in campus-wide service events such as Project Pumpkin and Campus Kitchen, as well as things in the larger community, like Habitat for Humanity and the CROP Walk. We also hope to reach out beyond Winston-Salem and serve others during our alternative spring breaks.
In all that we do, we seek to grow closer to God, and in doing that we cannot help but grow closer to each other, building up the body of Christ.


Marjorie Jean Wilkerson (Shook), 83, of Clarmin, IL, passed away on February 17, 2018 in Sparta, IL. Marjorie was born in Clarmin, IL to Charles and Stella (Cathcart) Shook. She went to Sparta High School. She married Willard Harlen “Buck” Wilkerson on February 7, 1953. He preceded her in death on June 21, 1969 but remained the love of her life until she departed this world. She was a faithful and devoted woman of God. She attended and served at Clarmin Baptist Church throughout her life as a Sunday School Teacher and piano player. She will be remembered for her sweet caring nature and her strong Christian faith. She enjoyed crocheting, Journaling, watching (and keeping her own scorebook) the St. Louis Cardinals and spoiling her grandchildren.
Surviving are, sons David Wilkerson and Ronald (Debra) Wilkerson; four grandchildren, Matthew (Melissa) Wilkerson, Jamie Hudson, Whitney (Brock) Schoenbeck, and Emily Wilkerson; eight great grandchildren, Courtnay, Gavin, Kiley, Blake Wilkerson, Ian, Alyssa Hudson, and Kaden, Oliver Schoenbeck; Great Great granddaughter, Evelyn Cole; sister, Gale Gregory; brother, Aaron Shook; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband and one brother Dale Shook
Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at McDaniel & Lee Family Funeral Home in Tilden, IL
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 at McDaniel & Lee Family Funeral Home in Tilden, IL, and on Wednesday from 9 a.m. until the hour of service at the Funeral Home
Interment will be at Marissa City Cemetery
Memorials may be given to Donor’s Choice


The cemetery of St Demetrios Church in Beirut is incredible. Some of the richest and oldest families from the city’s Greek Orthodox community are buried there, in white marble tombs topped off with ornate baroque sculptures. It’s like a shiny version of London’s Highgate Cemetery.
You can imagine that at one time the cemetery had a magnificent stillness about it. However, that’s been rather undermined, firstly by the massive Spinney’s Supermarket that’s been built next door, a monument to cut price groceries in steel and plastic facade. But secondly, and more catastrophically, by the events venue that’s currently being built on top of it.
Yes, on top.
Incredibly, the venue is being built by the Church itself, and nobody has raised any objections about it – or successful ones at least.


Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. -- Matthew 28:19 KJV
Praise the Lord, and welcome to Biblical Faith Ministries. We are a radio broadcast ministry, reaching both the unsaved, and brothers and sisters in Christ, around the globe. Led by the Holy Spirit, we're adhering to the great commission to "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations", so we're pressing toward the mark of our calling to teach the Word of God.
Thank you for taking time to visit us, and we pray that you will be guided by the Holy Spirit, to send seed to support the continued work of the ministry.
Pathway To Salvation
On the air with Biblical Living. Join us live every Saturday on Faithtalk 1500 WLQV from 11:00am to 12:00pm.
Get in Touch
You may contact the ministry at any time and our representative will be delighted to assist you.


I’m a Believer Get me out of here!Back to videos
Napkin Notes are ideal for use in one-to-one or group discussion and provide some great questions and themes to help chat through the video with your friends.Download
Tell me more
Is becoming a Christ Follower a bit like choosing to become a fan of a particular sport’s team. You are expected to attend weekly events, wear team colours and occasional sing nostalgic songs. Or is it something far more radical than that?
‘I’m a believer get me out of here!’ sets up a conversation around the idea that becoming a Christian involves a process of radical change! Using the miracle of nature as a backdrop, this short animation looks at the spiritual transformation that takes place in those who call themselves Christian.
Although each Coffee Chat film is a stand-alone conversation piece, when used as part of a series, this video would be seen as a grand finale. Ideal for chatting about the incredible changes that potentially take place in a Christ follower, this animation will undoubtedly create some great discussion.


Shut Up, Devil!
The Shut Up, Devil! app puts the power of the Word of God in your pocket to help silence Satan, whenever and wherever he attacks. You’ll have access to Scriptures related to almost any issue you face, each including a personalized version designed to speak aloud. HOW IT WORKS: Identify an issue: 25+ common issue categories and an app-wide search make it easy to find the Scriptures you need, when you need them. Browse Scripture cards: Swipe through cards that present Scriptures with personalized application. Share a card with friends or favorite for quick access later. Set a reminder: Stay on the offensive by setting reminders to speak Scripture aloud. Be notified as often or as little as you like. Includes a video by Kyle Winkler that teaches you how to use Scripture as a powerful weapon for spiritual warfare.Read more +
What you should know about Shut Up, Devil! app
Grow in the powerful word of God”
Good quick reference app”
Keep in mind
Nothing here… Users found nothing but good things to say about this app!
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Training teacher Huili Chen
Nanle County is a poor rural district. Under pressure of heavy fines for “illegal” childbirth, the abortion of girls is common. There was an urgent need to open the Baby Shower project in Nanle. On Sept. 23-24, 2010, our local director Chen and her assistant arrived in Nanle to distribute gift and aid. That night, more than 70 members of the local church organization received training. The director gave the lecture, which included two parts, one on the education of children, the second on abortion. She explained that babies in the womb were still God’s creation. Not even parents had the right to murder their children. On the second day, we distributed aid to ten expectant mothers and ten baby girls. AGA communicated our aim to every mother to encourage each to raise healthy girls.
During the process, we learned of a father of three children who was jailed twice for failing to pay the unaffordable fines imposed by the Planned Birth Policy. He spent 15 days in jail for each sentence. As a Christian, he did not allow the abortion of any of his three daughters. Mr. Zhao’s life and finances were both in very difficult position.
We also learned that local government rules prohibited additional childbirth if the first born was a boy, on pain of a heavy fine, though usually the second pregnancy would not be forcibly aborted. If the first born child was a girl, a second pregnancy was allowed to continue. However if the second child was determined to be a girl through prenatal examination, most parents would choose abortion. Many couples went through multiple abortions until they had a boy this way.
Currently, among the ten expectant mothers in our program, three had already had a girl. The monthly aid not only served as economic assistance, but also gave them some dignity and leverage in their husbands’ families. It encourages the local respect and protection for girls.
Discussion on the teaching material
Individual direction after training
Distributing aid to expectant mothers
Distribution aid to baby girls


“Our cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an hoof be left behind; for thereof must we take to serve the LORD our God; and we know not with what we must serve the LORD, until we come thither..“
– Exodus 10:26
Welcome to the Highland Park Full Gospel Assembly Church
Looking for something to do this Sunday. Come join us for our worship service. Located at the border of Highland Park and Eagle Rock.
October 16, 2016
- Thank you for your tithes and offerings. The Lord bless you for your faithfulness!
- Bring a friend to church.
- We’re air-conditioned! Come join us for our evening services every Sunday and Wednesday evening
- Please remember to welcome our new guests!
- Our annual business meeting will be held Monday, October 24th. If you would like to become a member of the church, please see Pastor Pat.
Sunday Morning Sermon
Pastor Pat Kane
Sunday Evening Sermon
Pastor Pat Kane
- Sunday School – 10:00 A.M.
- Adult Class – Sister Elizabeth O’Connor
- Discipleship Class – Brother Toyo and Sister Sylvia Hamaguchi
- Young Adult Class – Brother Chuy Olguin
- Sunday Morning Service – 11:15 A.M.
- Children’s Church – 12:00 P.M.
- Sunday Evening – 7:00 P.M.
- Wednesday Choir Practice – 6:00 P.M.
- Wednesday Evening Bible Study – 7:30 P.M.
- Thursday Prayer Meeting – 11:00 A.M.
Food for Thought
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened”
– Billy Graham
Prayer Requests This Week
- For Sister Teresa Claw, for healing
- For Sister Shirley Claw, for healing
- For Sister Janet Wolff, for healing
- For Chris Kane (Pastor Pat’s mom), for God’s mercy
- For three-year-old Gavin Gutierrez, for healing from acute lymphocytic leukemia
- For Pastor Pat, for healing
- For Sister Daisy Hartman, for healing
- For La Finca de Los Ninos orphanage in Honduras, for more workers
- For wisdom and strength for our church leaders
- October 6 – Elizabeth O’Connor
- October 8 – Malcolm O’Connor
- October 11 – Janet Wolff
- October 20 – Jonathan Colmenero
- October 20 – Joshua Colmenero
- October 25 – Mark Lewis
- October 29 – Sean Kane
Our Fundamental Truths:
WE BELIEVE…Every Person Can Have Restored Fellowship with God Through ‘Salvation’ (trusting Christ, through faith and repentance, to be our personal Savior). [1 of 4 cardinal doctrines of the AG]