What happens when a group of scientists—attendees at the North American Paleontological Convention—take a trip to the Creation Museum? Science and religion clash, that's what.
The New York Times has an article this week about that very occurrence, with interviews with both the scientists and the staff at the Museum. There are some scary things in what the creationists have to say. Apparently the Great Flood was the cause of everything that turned the world into what it is today, including creating the layers of soil and rock that paleontologists dig through, as well as separating the continents and putting them where they are (all in a matter of a few days, not over the course of billions of years). One wonders what happened to all of the lava that would have welled up if you had ripped apart a massive land mass that quickly.
One also must wonder if the Great Flood changed the rate at which carbon-14 decays, since that's how scientists determine how old the various layers of soil and rock are. Did carbon-14 decay more quickly before the flood? Did God change the laws of nature on us, just to confuse us? Was He trying to deceive us into thinking that the world is billions of years old?
Or is it more likely that the Bible was written by people, not by God, people who are by their very nature flawed? The earliest stories in the Bible happened long before the Hebrews had a written language, so they were told verbally from one generation to the next. Isn't it possible—even likely—that some of the stories may have changed a little bit with the telling over tens or hundreds or thousands of generations? Not to mention the fact that there are numerous versions of the Bible, some of which have had translational errors over the years. So why do people insist on ignoring scientific evidence and believing that the Bible, as written, is the Word of God?


The Archbishop of Canterbury is trying to defuse tensions in the long-running dispute between Ethiopia and its neighbours over a dam across the Blue Nile.
Speaking in Egypt as he formally inaugurated a new province of the Anglican Church, the Most Rev Justin Welby said that natural resources did not belong to certain countries, calling on Ethiopia to restart negotiations over the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Ethiopia has spent a decade constructing what is designed to be Africa’s largest hydroelectric power plant despite criticism from its neighbours over water security. In July, Egypt and Sudan accused it of breaking international law by starting the second stage of filling in the dam. Egypt has threatened airstrikes, fearing that the dam will affect the supply of river water on which it has relied for millennia.
Welby said: “I appeal to the Ethiopian government to show that they will use the dam responsibly, caring for their neighbours downstream. Please show that this dam is not a reason to worry.”
He spoke before a service in Cairo for the new Episcopal Province of Alexandria, which covers ten African countries that were previously administered from Jerusalem. They are Egypt, Ethiopia, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Eritrea, Somalia, Mauritania, Chad and Djibouti. There are about 40,000 practising Anglicans between them, according to Sami Fawzi, the province’s new archbishop.
The province became autonomous last year but Welby was prevented from visiting by the pandemic. It is headquartred in Egypt because of the Church’s role in supporting between 30,000 and 40,000 refugees there.
“The province covers a huge area, from the waves of the Atlantic to the beaches of the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean,” Welby said, noting the region’s importance in early Christianity. “A thousand years ago this area preserved medicine and learning. Today Egypt has again found its historic place as a place of meeting, of refuge.”
Egypt’s nine million Christians are mainly members of the Coptic church. They have faced persecution but the country has improved relations between Muslims and Christians in recent years.
In his sermon on Friday evening at All Saint’s Cathedral, Cairo, Welby acknowledged the long history of violence between religions. “Christians are to be part of a Church that is told to conquer with love and peace, never, never by a sword, a bomb or a plot,” he said. “And I say to our dear, dear friends from the Islamic community: how often Christians have got this wrong. Our history is one of the tragic sin of force. Let us be people of peace together.”
Egyptian Christians believe that the Patriarchate of Alexandria was founded by St Mark the Evangelist in about AD33. Over the next 300 years the city became one of the great Christian centres, home to famous early theologians such as Clement of Alexandria and Origen.
Welby’s visit to Egypt, the second leg of his first overseas trip since the pandemic, ends on Monday. He is expected to visit Refuge Egypt, a refugee charity, in Cairo on Saturday.
This week he joined the Pope and other religious leaders in Rome to call on world leaders for action on climate before the Cop26 conference in Glasgow.


Christian activities for young adults
Find the model that works for you; there are so many thriving young adult ministries. Don Vaught at or don fumcedmond. When developing activities and educational programs, those who work with young adults should be aware of trends such as declining church attendance and involvement in parish life and a widening gap between Church teaching and beliefs or perceptions of young adults. One of the most important ways to emphasize this aspect of Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship with young adults is to sponsor one or a series of service projects related to Catholic concerns about poverty, life issues, the environment, senior care, housing, or other issues. Find Someone to Champion the Ministry Someone needs to step up and be the leader.
Groups, Studies & Activities
Young Adults Group
What positions would you need to fill? Presenting real life issues in creative ways, we are passionate about helping young adults to live a life of victory and to fulfill their destiny in Christ Jesus. The Pathfinders Sunday School Class is a group of adults with young children. Nowadays, after receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, most young adults tragically stop going to church, sometimes even giving up on religious practices altogether until about the time they want to get married. Go find your own mentor who has been where you want to go. Our mission is to be a place where young adults have a place in the church where they feel they belong.
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Influence Magazine | Ten Steps to Building a Successful Young Adult Ministry
What would our world look like if every church had at least one young adult small group, where young people could find hope in Jesus and encounter life-changing, Christ-centered community? The decisions we make as citizens about who leads us and what policies are enacted have important moral and ethical dimensions. Subscribe to newsletter. If you would like more information about Sojourners , contact Donna Beardmore at or donna. Some meet weekly or monthly, and others quarterly.
Find the model that works for you; there are so many thriving young adult ministries. Yearly trips oversees trips allow our young adults to experience a different culture, and help them develop a heart for people and enlarged their world view. Amidst the change, it is nice to have a place to connect and grow with others in a similar life stage. Want to learn more as the next season approaches? These are usually pot-luck style, so people bring a dinner food item to share. Just wanting to meet other cool people at St.


Based on writings by G.K. Chesterton, this poetic film reignites wonder in hopes that we would stand in awe and worship the one who created all.
A thought provoking poem written by Eric Ferrer-Vaughn, "Peace Treaty" asks if there is a better way for us to resolve differences.
Playing it Right
Sometimes following Jesus is less about hitting the right notes, and more about playing with the right heart. Our hope is that people would live a life that's beautiful enough to move someone.
Love Your Enemy
A Christian living in Palestinian shares what loving your enemy looks like when your enemies surround you.
John 10 Jesus tells us that he came so that we may have life, and have it to the fullest! He tells us that He desires us to thrive! But how do we do that? And how is that different than what our culture tells us?


Ministries of Mercy - Life Ministries at 6363 9th Avenue North, Saint Petersburg, FL 33710 US - Home
Welcome to the Life Ministry Website
Florida Respect Life ConferenceThe 2014 Respect Life Conference will be held on Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25 at the Bethany Center. The theme this year is "Masterpieces of God's Creation." Details and Registration.
Ministries of Mercy Mass and LuncheonRepresentatives from our parishes' various Ministries of Mercy initiatives gathered for the annual Mass and luncheon at the Bethany Center in Lutz on Saturday, August 23. Photos & Videos
Ice Bucket ChallengeHave you been asked to take the Ice Bucket Challenge? This fundraiser has captured the attention of many and significantly raised awareness of ALS. If you consider taking the challenge, be sure your donations go to an organization that does not fund research using human embryonic stem cells. Read more
The Church and the Death PenaltyAt the heart of Catholic teaching on the death penalty is the belief that 'Human life is sacred because from its beginning it involves the creative action of God and it remains for ever in a special relationship with the Creater, who is its sole end...'" (Catechism, No. 2258). Learn more.
Support Immigration ReformCongress has an opportunity to pass immigration reform - as a moral matter, our country must not accept the toil and taxes of our immigrant brothers and sisters in Christ without offering them the protections of our laws. Bishops of Florida Statement: (English / Spanish).
Catholic Days at the CapitolForty-seven people from our diocese participating in the 2014 Catholic Days at the Capitol on March 25 and 26. During this two-day event, Catholics from around the state to gather and discuss human life and dignity issues with elected officials. See photos from this year and read Bishop Lynch's blog post.
Human Trafficking Is A Crime27 million people are trafficked globally. There are 20.9 million people enslaved around the world with 2.5 million of those people located in the United States. Florida is the third-highest ranked state for this fast-growing crime. Learn More / Local Video Documentary
29,000 Meals Packaged for Burkina Faso29,000 meals were packaged for our brothers and sisters in West Africa at a Ministries of Mercy and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Helping Hands event. Contact the Office of Life Ministry to learn how to hold a food-packing event in your parish.
Celebration of Life RallyThe second annual Tampa Bay Celebration of Life Rally was held on February 7 and 8 at the Countryside Christian Center. This nondenominational rally is held to bring awareness, provide education and call everyone to stand together in the defense of life. See photos from this year's rally.
41st Anniversary of Roe v. WadeJanuary 22nd marked the 41st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, the U.S. Supreme Court decision to legalize abortion. Read the Catholic Bishops of Florida's statement in English or Spanish.


Phil (of “Duck Dynasty”) brings us a topic - Marriage & Sexuality
There has been a lot of news about homosexuality as “Duck Dynasty” has opened up about their beliefs. I have never watched that show but I realize a lot of people do. As the issue gets murkier for many people because of legal homosexual marriage and the fact that many mainline denominations, including Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, have officially sanctioned homosexual relationships, one wonders where we are supposed to stand.
I think it is very helpful to first understand our God-given gift of sexuality. Human sexuality is one of the ways that men and women have been bound together in order that they may remain in union. They are meant to serve as a powerful bond, as God says in Genesis chapter 2, “It is not good for man to be alone.” This is one of the reasons why God created Eve, so that husband and wife would leave their fa-thers and mothers and cling to one another.
This clinging is a sexual union. “The two become one flesh.” This is also a new family with all kinds of other strong bonds—emotional, psychological, etc. Within this divine establishment of marriage, sexuality is blessed by God. In fact, there is no other facet of human life that has so wonderful and beautiful a seal as marriage, crowned by the most precious thing we know—procreation, life.
God loves life. That is why He sent His only-begotten Son to redeem the world, so that all who believe in him shall not perish but have eternal life. Since God loves life, he protects it with his commandments. In the Sixth Commandment, “You shall not commit adultery,” God prohibits anyone from disrupting, perverting, or destroying that which God has instituted and blessed: matrimony and sexual union. Outside of matrimony, God forbids sexual union. This includes “sleeping around,” adultery, and unlawful divorce (abandonment, desertion).
Therefore, when a man and a woman truly desire one another (and not just lust after one another) they should become married. Once married, husband and wife must confine their desires to one another. All of this is summarized by the explanation to the Sixth Commandment in the Small Catechism. The basis of sexuality is marriage. This is God’s design and commandment.
But our society has popularized a very different basis for sexuality. Sexual union is not determined by God’s joining of one man and one woman. Instead sexual union is determined by the desires of the individuals. If two people love one another and believe it is “right,” then they may have sex with one another. If husband and wife no longer wish to be married, they can easily obtain divorce. When the basis for sexual union is a person’s desires, then it is only logical that homosexuals should be able to act on their desires, too.
It has not escaped the attention of homosexual advocates that heterosexuals can be very hypocritical in their condemnation of homosexuality. Straight people, so they say, can do whatever they want, sexually speaking, while homosexuals cannot. And they are right about that. It is hypocritical. An utter failure in understanding sexuality, marriage, and family among heterosexuals has preceded and even paved the way for the homosexual movement.
Heterosexual perversion is just as wrong as the perversion of same sex attraction. We must not be hypocrites in our condemnation of homosexuality, but proceed in a deep spirit of repentance. We need to get the log out of our eye so that we can begin to see clearly. We need to learn and teach about marriage and encourage young people to enter into it. We need to encourage those who are in the estate of marriage to remain in it and be faithful to their spouse. Marriage is a vital, potent, lovely force. God has instituted it, protects it with his commandments, blesses it with new life. We must learn that sexuality is not just about gratification or entertainment. It is for fidelity, honesty, and love of one’s spouse rather than mere enjoyment for one’s self.
The Sixth Commandment is broken by whoever has lust for those whom God has not given in marriage. If we do not understand this as a disease that afflicts both those with the natural sexual desire for the opposite sex as well as those who are attracted to those of the same sex, then we cannot expect to be heard by those who are lost in homosexual desires and lifestyles. The devil delights in the darkness of guilt and shame, especially the type of humiliation that comes with sexual sins.
We must bring the light of God’s Word and blessing into this important area of our life. We must guide all people to the blessings of forgiveness. God heals sinners, even those who suffer from sexual perversion. The devil would like to take away all hope of ever changing, of ever becoming sexually pure. But he is a liar and a murderer. There is hope. Christ Jesus has come to defeat the devil and all his works and all his ways. Christ takes away our shame by forgiving us and gives us the sure hope of a good conscience before God. If this sin is weighing on you, I have been called by God to announce Christ’s forgiveness to the repentant. Don’t suffer alone, but seek the grace and protection that Christ gives through His Church, His ministers, and His people.


They will bear fruit, as they grow older, they will stay strong in the faith. “This honors the Lord, and exhibits his faithful care. He is my rock. There is nothing but goodness in him!” – Psalm 92: 14-15
Our goal is to provide fellowship, laughter, encouragement, spiritual growth and service opportunities for adults 55 and over.
Lakeside Senior Fellowship offers opportunities for new friendships and activities; a time to pursue and embrace life with faith and fulfilling events.
At our gatherings we will experience inspirational and fun times, encourage spiritual growth, nurture meaningful relationships, and learn about ways to serve our Lord.
We will meet on the second Sunday of most months from 5:30 – 8:00 PM for a dinner and some great conversation.
The dinner will be followed by an exciting array of programs, speakers, worship, and fun.
To get involved, questions or for more information: email@example.com
Jim and Peggy Price will join us this month to give an update on their most recent trip to China, and Peggy will speak on “Thoughts for Mothers.” Family members are welcomed and encouraged to come along to help celebrate Mother’s Day. We will meet in the basement of The Block (building next to the main building) at 5:30. Bring a dish to share for our always delicious potluck. Send us a note at firstname.lastname@example.org to RSVP.


Several years ago, this blog focused most of its attention on the good things about small churches. These blog posts were compiled into a book called "The Beauty of the Small Church." One pastor was kind enough to have good things to say about my book.
In March, 2008, a nationwide small church conference (the first of its kind) was hosted by me at Lewisville Baptist Church in Lewisville, NC. This conference was sponsored by Lifeway, NAMB, and IMB. We had an attendance of about 150 pastors from 15 states. The topics presented at the conference was strictly small church based. Our conference speakers included Tom Elliff, Alvin Reid, Frank Page and several others. Having spent many hours as an advocate for the small church, I am pleased to see others taking the small church message to heart. A small church pastor, Dave Miller, was elected as 2nd VP of the SBC in 2012.
Much progress has been made but there is much left to do.


FROM THE DESK OF MIN. FRANK COLEMAN
A message prepared in a mind has little power, even in a church setting. To reach people requires more than facts, doctrines, and poems.
With all the preaching in our churches, American Christianity remains ineffective. It is captured by our culture and follows trends rather than creating them. Rather than influencing society toward more noble and virtuous lifestyles, American Christianity has been influenced into following society’s fads.
Perhaps something more than sermons is needed. According to Paul of Tarsus, a church meeting should be built around open participation. He wrote: “When you come together everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation.” This is a much more effective way to help people change than a lecture each week by a professional.
When Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was started they considered how to hold their meetings. They decided to build their meetings around open participation rather than using the weekly lecture format. Their membership exploded and they quickly became one of the most effective groups in treating alcoholics.
When people passively sit and listen, little happens, however, when they openly participate they grow. An old saying puts it this way: “Christianity is better caught than taught.” Perhaps the church should try Paul’s advise.


Join Jeff Zweerink and Joseph Bergeron as they discuss new discoveries taking place at the frontiers of science that have theological and philosophical implications, including the reality of God’s existence.
The Man Behind the Shroud
The Shroud of Turin remains one of the most hotly debated artifacts related to Jesus’s death, burial, and resurrection. Join us as medical specialist Joe Bergeron discusses what an analysis of the shroud’s image reveals about the man behind the shroud. The data provides abundant evidence supporting the accounts of Jesus’s crucifixion given in the Gospels.
The Shroud of Turin, Part 1: An Examination of the Man
Joseph Bergeron, Reasons to Believe


Lakeview Baptist Church began with a group of people meeting for prayer at the home of Sonny and Barbara Shaw. Several other Saturday night prayer meetings were help in the homes of Doris and Billy Shaw, Jewell and Edna Hayes, Robert and Joanne Jones, Mac and Nancy Winders, and Ed and Daisy Hale. The group continued to meet for several weeks for prayer time and Bible study. The Bible study was led by Mr. Jewell Hayes and he chose the book of Nehemiah for the study because he though that like Nehemiah, they needed to build.
After much prayer, the group decided to build a church. The land for the church was donated by Jewell and Edna Hayes. In 1988, the group met on the site of the present day church for a ground-breaking ceremony with the deacons turning the first shovel of dirt.
Construction on the church foundation started when Kent Adams donated his time and equipment to dig the footer, water lines and septic lines and to install the septic tank. The building began with Phillip Shaw, Mitchell Dawson and Mike Newswanger as carpenters. during the week and donating their time on Saturdays. Other workers who donated time, material and money were Jewell Hayes, Albert Draper, James Mitchell, Sonny Shaw, Earl Newswanger, Don Laster, George Buckley, Bill Shaw and Bowden Kisselbaugh. Several other neighbors and friends helped out with the building as well. A group of young men who assisted were, Keith Shaw, Ben Buckley, Mark Buckley, David Shaw, Douglas Powell, and Mike Newswanger. David Fields provided the crane and Danny Caroll Hayes set the trusses on the building. Mr. Fields sent his crane back after the building was complete to set the steeple.
It was not always smooth sailing with the construction, though, and once a portion of the basement wall caved in. Earl Newswanger re-laid the blocks and continued to work and build the steps to the back door and laid the bricks on the front of the building. After the outside was completed, the ladies began work on the inside. They were Yvonne Adams, Joanne Jones, Barbara Shaw, Daisy Hale, Sue Hale, Donna Shaw, Valerie Shaw, Susie Dawson, Nancy Winders, Mary Lea Laster, Betty Sue Buckley, Vick Mitchell, and Virginia Newswanger. Young ladies assisting were Ellen Adams, Pam Jones and Regina Dawson. Bro. MacArthur Winders meet with the group several Saturday nights for Bible Study and he agreed to preach for them on Sunday Afternoon. Vaughn’s Grove United Methodist Church allowed the group the use of their church building to hold services on Sunday afternoons. The first service was held in August 1988. Bro. Mac Winders was elected as Pastor.
Allegre Missionary Baptist Church allowed Lakeview Baptist Church to be commissioned as a mission for them. Thirty-nine people from Lakeview went to Allegre Baptist Church and joined their church and the mission was formed.
Shiloh Baptist Church was a great supporter of the group. Some of their members met with them on Sunday evenings and invited them to their fellowships. Shiloh offered the use of their building for a song service by The Inspirations when Lakeview’s building was not completed by the date The Inspirations were scheduled to perform.
The first service in the new building was on Mother’s Day, 1989.
Lakeview Baptist joined the Christian County Baptist Association in 1992 with Jewell Hayes, Yvonne Adams and Susie Dawson attending the meeting.
So we built the wall, and all the wall was joined together unto half thereof; for the people had a mind to work. (Nehemiah 4:6)


The Book of Jasher is mentioned in Joshua 10:12–13 and 2 Samuel 1:18. This is interesting – although the Book of Jasher is not part of the canon, the Old Testament does mention it. So, it was in existence. Let’s read Jasher 24:37-45:
37. And the Lord hearkened to the voice of Eliezer, for the sake of his servant Abraham, and he happened to meet with the daughter of Bethuel, the son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, brother to Abraham, and Eliezer came to her house.
38. And Eliezer related to them all his concerns, and that he was Abraham’s servant, and they greatly rejoiced at him.
39. And they all blessed the Lord who brought this about, and they gave him, Rebecca, the daughter of Bethuel, for a wife for Isaac.
40. And the young woman was of very comely appearance, she was a…
View original post 1,183 more words


St James Church
This pot is now closed
We are privileged to have artist Rev’d Sophie Hacker designing and making a new stained glass window for our church. The total cost of the window is
£20,000, half of which has already
been raised and allowed Sophie to
start making it. Perhaps you would
like to sponsor a piece of glass. Here
at St James, we think this is a really
special project, reaching out not
only to the folk who worship here regularly, but to everyone who has connections to this place and our wider community. Donations of any size will be warmly welcomed, so don’t be put off getting involved - we would love to draw together in making this window into a collective gift from our present community to the one of the future.
raised of £10,000 target
Enter amount to contribute
Leave St a message?
Total to pay
This pot has now closed.
Payments can no longer be made into this pot.


applications are accepted during the open registration period, which begins in
*Kindergarten applicants: five years of age on or before November 1st for the 2012-2013 school year.
If you are interested in
attending Saint Charles Borromeo School please contact the
school regarding available space. Next, complete the 2-page application form and send it to school. Upon
receipt of the completed application you will be contacted.
If space is available you will be asked to pick up the
remainder of the application packet. Upon receiving the
completed required paperwork, a student assessment will be
scheduled. Parents will be notified regarding acceptance
once all application paperwork and required meetings are
Admission decisions are based on such factors as, but not limited
previous school records (report cards, progress reports, testing scores,
student and/or parent interviews
and participation in religious education and parish life
requirements are also taken into consideration:
1. Parental support of the religious instruction by regular and
active participation in parish religious practices and worship:
A) Weekly attendance at Mass.
B) Support of the sacramental program for Penance and Eucharist.
C) Active participation in parish activities.
D) Financial support of the church by regular envelope use. (The
parish supports the school from
2. Participation and support of fundraisers through attendance
and participation are required.
3. Financial support of the school by prompt payment of fees and
4. Support of the school standards as set forth in the
1. Evidences a Christian attitude and conforms to school
regulations in all areas.
2. Completes the basic grade level requirements and related
assignments according to his/her ability.
3. Follows the school standards as set forth in the
Students are admitted after a review of the completed
registration packet and the outcome of the entrance test and interview. Students
will be accepted in the following order:
1. Qualified parishioners (registered in the parish with regular
use of Sunday donation envelopes)
2. Qualified Catholics who are not Saint Charles parishioners (a
letter of referral is required from
3. Qualified non‑Catholics.
If there are no available spaces you may request that your
application be kept on file in our wait pool, and be called if there is an
opening. You must reapply to be considered for the following school year.


“My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God.”
(Deuteronomy 32:2-3 KJV)
Welcome to our Publications!
The purpose and goal of Jesus Must Increase Publications is just that – that Jesus may be magnified. John the Baptist said in John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
In a world of many strange voices clamoring for the ear and heart of Bible-believers, our desire is to make solidly Biblical materials available to all.
~ Pastor Mickey Ellis
BEHOLD, SHEW YOU A MYSTERY
This is a 570 page study of the Book of First Corinthians.
Dr. David Sexton says, “Pastor Ellis has done a tremendous job at taking the ancient letter to the Corinthians and practically applying it to the Christian church today! Layered with depth and yet simplicity, I believe it would be an excellent addition to the Christian’s bookshelf as well as a tool for Bible colleges across the globe.”
*What is church discipline?
*Does God want some Christians to remain single?
*What about divorce and remarriage?
*Who can partake of the Lord’s Supper?
*Does God still grant sign gifts?
*If it is a shame for a man to have long hair, how long is long?
BEHOLD, A CERTAIN MAN is a 250 page survey of the Book of Daniel.
Dr. Carl Boonstra said, “I enjoyed and profited from your commentary on Daniel, more than any other I’ve ever had. My first was in 1948 when Dr. J. Frank Norris gave his lecture on Daniel. I was amazed in your historical research. The tenth chapter on Angels is very enlightening. I sincerely pray that God will open the door where this book will get into the hands and hearts of Bible students, local church preachers and teachers.”
*What was Belshazzar’s handwriting on the wall?
*What are the 70 weeks in Daniel?
*What are unclean spirits?
*What is the next world-wide empire?
BRIEF BAPTIST BYGONES, JOHN BUNYAN
“The author is so thankful for those in our faithful Heritage who were willing to take a strong stand for the Scriptures, no matter the persecution suffering, exile, or even death.”
BRIEF BAPTIST BYGONES, CHRISTMAS EVANS
“The author is so thankful for those in our faithful Heritage who were willing to take a strong stand for the Scriptures, no matter the persecution, suffering, exile, or even death.”
BEHOLD, THOU ART FAIR is a 100 page book of practical lessons on Courtship and Marriage, straight from Solomon’s Song.
Only $10.00 each.
Bro John Bishop with Triple “S” Christian Ranch and God is So Good Ministries said, “I just finished reading the book, “Behold, Thou Art Fair,” by Brother Mickey Ellis. What a blessing! I recommend greatly this book! It is indeed both truthful and tactful. A large audience will benefit by reading it. Let it’s pages fill you with faith and love!”
GOD’S PLAN FOR YOUR HOME LIFE
The God-created Family institution is under attack more today than ever! This small book was written by a great man of God named J. Harold Smith in 1953. Out of print for years, but now it’s back in print and available for only…
BEHOLD MY SERVANT
A verse by verse study of Isaiah 53.
Dr. Ron Westmoreland says, “I am thrilled that Pastor Mickey Ellis has used time and spent resources in this deep and skillful look at one of the great chapters in all the Bible. In this book, Dr. Ellis has unfolded Isaiah chapter 53 for us. As you read, you will see the life of Jesus revealed before you and you will be led especially to the old rugged cross of Calvary.
Of all the chapters of the Bible, Isaiah 53 is certainly one that must be “rightly divided.” In my opinion, the author has accomplished this most critical task. What great truths and precious jewels Bro. Ellis has illuminated for us to enjoy!
Give this book a chance; it will grip your heart as you look upon the suffering of our
Lord Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.”
only $15.00 each
CALLED UNTO HOLINESS
A booklet on Biblical principles of practical sanctification.
only $2.00 each
Behold, thy King is a 300 page commentary on the Gospel of Matthew.
*Why four Gospel Books?
*Are there any living Apostles?
*Is there a difference between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven?
*What day of the week did Jesus die?


Black Metal Cult Records Proudly Presents: COLONEL WILLIAM POTTER GALE-Racial And Nation Identity (BOOK)
This booklet has been prepared for Aryan Christians in the hope that it will provide a better understanding of the Holy Scriptures. The Bible is not the history of ALL races. It is the history and guidebook for the WHITE RACE (NOT THE THE JEW) and begins with Adam. See Genesis 5:1, “This is the book of the generation (race) of Adam.” Therefore, since Adam was the first White man, the Asiatic and black races could not have come from him. One cannot be older than his father. It is sheer folly to claim that God would violate His Own Law that kind begets like kind, and bring forth black and yellow people from white parents (Adam and Eve). In Genesis 1: 27 we read of the creation of the early races as “male and female.” We read also that God rested after His work (creations), and it is not until after His rest that the Bible tells us in Genesis 2:5, “…and there was not a MAN to till the ground.” Correctly translated, the word “man” should read Adam. (See Young’s Analytical Concordance.) Properly used, the name “Adam” puts a completely different complexion upon the entire Bible story and supplies correct answer for questions that have previously caused confusion amongst the Christians. As we unravel this error concerning Adam, we learn that the Bible is written specifically to and for the White race. It is well recognized that the White race is the agricultural race (Genesis 2:5) while the other races have been only nomads and hunters. It has been the White man who has carried civilization and progress to every part of the globe since the days of Adam. 20 Pages!!!


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We are in the blessedly unique position to view history through the benefit of hindsight. To observe ancient Roman and modern European history more keenly than the Romans could have analyzed the Greeks or Persians. This current generation has been afforded the tools to scrutinize the minutiae of any previous generation or civilization throughout human history. With these tools we are now allowed to examine the course of human history and break down the singular events which shaped it entirely. We are in the thicket of our own forest, but this generation has the ability to see the whole forest with greater clarity. That greater clarity is provided by our modern institutions and technologies.
You might assume that greater clarity would bring greater discernment in our time. As the Churchillian cliche goes, “Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.” If we have a good map, we assume we won’t get lost on the way. But you still have to read the damn thing, and some maps aren’t easily figured out . . . If we were to take all the vast lessons of history and translate them into a roadmap, an atlas, or an instruction manual, we might assume it would be fairly easy to understand. All the major sins, pitfalls and follies we should strive to avoid; all the major virtues, victories and successes we should strive to achieve. That is how I basically view history, a large, detailed roadmap.
As a Christian, the Bible is my primary roadmap. The Bible contains the history of our Judeo-Christian faith and it’s traditions. The Bible tells the diverse story of mankind, from Eden to Egypt to the Roman empire. It is the adverse, personal account of the Jewish people and every trial they have faced, from Pharaoh Ramses to Pontius Pilate. It is the testimony of Jesus Christ. And I believe it to be divinely inspired by the breath of God, recorded by the hand of man. (See Revelation 19:10 & John 1:1 & 2 Timothy 3:16)
Therefore, I take the Bible as the principal guiding force in my life. I may primarily cover politics as a writer, and I may obsess over political theory, but my first obsession is the Bible and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Bible will always remain as my roadmap; my atlas.
As much as I love my country, I cannot begin to quantify my love for the Lord. As much as I seriously revere the US Constitution, I cannot begin to express the solemn reverence I hold toward the Bible. It is a sacred, holy book. I try to comprehend how limited our time is on earth, that we are merely temporary citizens, and ambassadors of Christ. (Philippians 3:20 & Ephesians 2:6,19) Paul reminds us that our citizenship is first in Heaven and our loyalty to the Lord is primary.
It is important to remember that Heaven is a Kingdom, and although it is not political it is certainly governmental. The Kingdom of Heaven is a government structure, similar to a theocracy and the Bible is full of parallels, referring to Jesus as King and Judge.
Now, I have no desire to elaborate on “Kingdom Theology” or “Millennium Theology” at length in this article, but if you are a believer and this subject is new to you, I highly recommend Chuck Missler’s teaching on the “Kingdom Perspective” in his book, “The Kingdom, Power, & Glory”. I would also recommend “The Vision of God’s Building” by Witness Lee, and the letters to the Churches in Revelation, chapters 2 & 3 — if you want to specifically learn more about God’s governmental system and the Millennium.
As I briefly mentioned, God’s government, the Kingdom of Heaven, is set up similar to a monarchy. I would personally say it’s somewhere between a constitutional monarchy, theocracy, and an absolute monarchy, if I’m strictly using secular terms here. A monarchy is managed ultimately by one person — in this case, a King, namely, Jesus. You could properly view the Holy Bible as the Constitution and therefore the basis for governing, legislation, and civil life in the Kingdom of Heaven.
The Bible is more than a story book filled with life’s lessons, historic exploits and quaint quotations. It is the codified, divine law of the Kingdom of Heaven. It is the Constitution of God’s government. As with any constitutional government, there are laws and rules and regulations. We serve the God of order and peace, not of disorder and chaos. (1 Corinthians 14:33) Whenever God established a new covenant with mankind, He established new rules and guidelines to follow. From Adam to Noah to Moses to Jesus, God either instituted new laws or added to them.
The Bible makes clear we serve a loving, wise, righteous, and just God of government, and we are to represent Heaven during our brief earthly lives as ambassadors of the King, Jesus Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:20)
The modern, corporate Church is seemingly ignorant of our divine citizenship and forgetful of the history lessons the Bible alludes to: lessons of complacency in the face of tyranny, lukewarm religion, stagnant spirituality, deceit of riches, innocent blood spilled out, perverted & barbaric sin allowed in the high courts. We’ve forgotten where our loyalties should remain and we’ve ignored the history of the Jewish people — the very ancestors of our faith. We lack common sense in the Church and our collective voice does not command the respect it once did. We deny basic biology and say it’s OK if Johnny wants to be a girl or if Sarah wants to be a boy. We now say it’s OK if you self-identify as a purple unicorn or your favorite Disney character. Too many in the Church condone infanticide, pornography, homosexuality, witchcraft and the like. Too many in the Church turn a blind eye to slavery, child sex trafficking, incarceration camps, authoritarianism, government overreach and propaganda tools. The same toxic ideology that was popularized by the likes of Stalin, Hitler, and Mao, has not only been allowed, but adopted in our highest institutions for generations, and Christians willingly go along for the ride. The very same ideology our grandfathers stormed Normandy and died to defeat, is being resurrected by our modern professors and politicians on our own soil.
We dare not speak against these things because we want to be tolerant and we don’t want to judge and we obey the command to love our neighbors as ourselves and we are so kind and we are so compassionate and we are so empathetic and we are so happy and we are so kind and we love, love, love . . . A lot of believers have memorized Matthew 7:1-5 and Ephesians 2:8 by heart and twist it out of context in order to avoid confrontation or responsibility. Dietrich Bonhoeffer called it “cheap grace”. Some today call it “hyper grace”.
I would recommend those believers read and contemplate Ezekiel 33 when the Lord appointed him as watchman. I am not claiming everyone is called to be a watchman/prophet, but if you read Ezekiel 33 then you get my point: We have to run the risk of offending others in the pursuit of truth. We must exercise our right to free speech, even at the risk of offending others.
During His ministry on earth, Jesus Himself said He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. (John 14:6) The pursuit of Truth alone is more significant than a person’s emotional output, no matter how significant the person is. If we don’t begin to use our God-given voices, we will wake up one morning having lost our man-made rights we took for granted. As believers, we aren’t supposed to judge or criticize, but we are supposed to warn, exhort, and edify when a fellow believer begins to steer off course. (2 Timothy 4:2 & 1 Corinthians 14:3) It is Christ’s job as Judge to condemn, and it is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict. (2 Corinthians 5:10 & 2 Timothy 4:1 & Revelation 3:21 & John 16:8)
I fear if we don’t begin to correct the course of this nation, we will have forfeited the divine blessings of Deuteronomy 28, swapping them for it’s curses. If we fail to return to the roots of the 1st century Church, we will have squandered the gains our brethren have made spanning millennia. Particularly squandering the gains made since our Puritan and Quaker brethren crossed the Atlantic to escape totalitarian tyranny and religious oppression.
We cannot be remembered as the generation of lukewarm, complacent observers that forfeited the rights their forefathers died for.
We cannot tolerate paganism in the Body of Christ. We cannot tolerate the mixture of the unholy and the holy, we cannot allow the profane with the sacred. (Ezekiel 22:26 & Ezekiel 44:23)
We must meet the moment. We must answer the call. If we fail to fight now, we will be recorded in the annals of Heaven as the generation of silent bystanders who sat on their hands, bit their tongues and looked the other way. And that is one thing no believer should tolerate.


Good Shepherd Clinic’s mission is to provide free primary medical care to uninsured residents of Clayton County who have limited financial resources. Our goal is to witness to the ministry of Christ by providing quality health care in an atmosphere of dignity and respect for all.
Join us on the last Friday of every month for Market Day at the Clinic. Heaping bags of fresh fruits and vegetables are available for only $5 per bag. This event is open to patients and community members alike.
Tomato Sandwich Day
The Tomato Sandwich Party has been a Good Shepherd Clinic staple for 14 years. This event boasts live musical entertainment, a delicious buffet spread and crowd favorite cake auction! The first Saturday in August!
Every March the clinic hosts a luncheon honoring extraordinary members of our community who work for the betterment of Clayton County. Recipients are chosen from disciplines such as Education, Business, Medicine, Law, and Ministry.


April 29, 2021
Worship for Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Rogers, Ark., for May 2, 2021.
The sermon text is John 16:5-15. The theme is "The Holy Spirit's Working."
The Order of Matins from The Lutheran Hymnal is used.
The brief service is prerecorded for use since the church building is being dried out after flooding on Wednesday.
April 24, 2021
Message for the Third Sunday after Easter. The Scripture text is John 16:16-22. The message theme is "In a little while."
April 17, 2021
Sermon for Second Sunday after Easter:
“The Work of the Good Shepherd” John 10:11-16
Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Rogers, Ark.
Pastor Randy Moll
April 8, 2021
Finding comfort in the empty tomb and Jesus' bodily resurrection, a message based on Matthew 28:1-10.


Birth of a Chapel
Dave Romeo is a proven personal results coach and a dynamic national presenter in the areas of sales, leadership, personal growth, customer satisfaction, and goal setting.
How do You Start a Chapel without a Priest, a Building, or a Congregation?
If you follow the example of Saints Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Mission, you pray and persevere. This group started with about 14 people in the basement of a college professor with one Mass a month, progressed to a Comfort Inn for Sunday Mass for a few years before buying a beautiful chapel in York, PA.
Here are a few lessons to remember if you are in the same situation:
- Get the priest! Even if you have a visiting priest, you can still offer Mass. You might need to get help from several circuit priests to get off the ground.
- Advertise. Get the word and people will come from far and wide to find you. Establish a web site as early as possible.
- Use your people’s strengths. Everyone is good at something. Give people a chance to shine and contribute.
- Ask for what you want. Let people know what you need and why you need it. We raised enough money for the down payment on our chapel in less than thirty days from a very small group of dedicated Catholics.
- Create consistency. We offered Mass everyday and in many cases twice a day.
You can get all the specific details about how to start up a new Mission and read all about our incredible true success story in my book Birth of a Chapel.


Are they ready for this?
New International Reader's Version
9 Does he who made the ear not hear?
Does he who formed the eye not see?
"Does He who made the eye not see, and does He who made the ear not hear?"
In 1999, I went to a bible study one night. A man and woman were hosting the group. Once everybody was settled in their seats, the woman began to minister. Immediately she told us that she was going to prophesy in the name of God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, and that she would prophesy to whoever the Holy Spirit guides her to. I was sitting way in the back of the room and she had crossed the room and stopped in front of me and began to prophesy. She was speaking through the Holy Spirit. Her message was this:
"God has a lot more for you. God has watched you since you were small. Without Him, you would be out of here. I see you looking at album covers and thinking, "How can I do that?" God is going to bless you with a band. Jump music is your calling. Not everyone is going to like it. In one of your songs you will be crying because God will anoint you. You have the spiritual gifts of a prophet, priest, teacher, minister, and evangelist. You are a man of peace. The word for you is fire."
That is a real prophecy of the Holy Spirit. It is a spiritual prophecy concerning spiritual matters.
Ya'll should read my book. For people to like and appreciate my music is too much to hope for.
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ePrayer Impact is a faith based non-profit that exists to encourage the church in America and around the world in prayer.
We have recently be fulfilling our purpose by helping to coordinate prayer movements such as IF MY PEOPLE 2012 and IF MY PEOPLE 2016. In both cases we have helped to organize various prayer leaders, organizations, and movements in a behind the scenes, safe, and transparent way. We have not been trying to build our own database, donors, etc, but truly have a desire to serve those already in ministry. By coming alongside current ministries we have been successful in bringing people together, obtain free publicity, and help to freely serve established ministries and people. We have been successful doing this with maintaining a professional standard, keeping event costs low, and raising money only for the events (we have no ongoing ministry costs). We also understand the importance of submitting to authority of any collaborative ministries that we work with and strive to maintain a servants heart.
We are also very excited about a project we are working on to build a technology solution using the latest communication technology to help individuals, churches, organizations, and Christian radio stations communicate prayer requests in a free to low cost manor.


About two weeks ago as the boys and I were doing morning prayer during school, we somehow began discussing what an amazing thing is was that our friends, Mark and Kristy, were being obedient to the Lord and choosing to have a tubal reversal to let God be God over all their lives again. During that discussion it was mentioned that I had had a tubal also. The first things out of the boys' mouths was "I want more siblings. Are you going to get one too?" That caught me a bit off guard, though I had been thinking about the whole situation quite a lot since Kristy had told me about their decision. The boys were so cute as they excitedly discussed their orders for more kids, in what genders and hair-colors and numbers! I told them that the Lord was really working on me to see children as the precious gifts and blessings that they are and that they should pray about wisdom for Mom and Dad to make whatever decisions that they needed to make.
Well, their prayers went something like this, "Dear Lord, please be with ............... Please help us have a good day and get school done quickly. Please help ............ come to know you and pleeeeaaaaasse help Mom and Dad make the decision to have more siblings for us. Amen"
Every morning prayer time went much the same way, and the Lord was really changing my attitude toward His blessings in my life, and the boys' prayers were being answered in my heart. And in the middle of one of those pre-prayer conversations, the Lord spoke to me and said "You need to apologize to Charles." I had never thought of that before, but I was convinced that He was right. When I had my tubal, though we had previously discussed getting it done, I did not ask his approval before I scheduled the surgery. I had usurped his authority. More than that, though he had agreed that a tubal was the best course of action, he had not wanted me to get it done. I had seriously hurt him when I cavalierly scheduled surgery and then informed him about it.
So I told God, "Yes, I need to apologize. I don't feel that this is the time, so I ask You to show me when I should."
The week finished and I kept praying about when to apologize to Charles, but I still didn't feel the tug, so I waited. I wanted to bring up the subject of a reversal to see how he felt about it, but just didn't know how in any casual manner, so I devised a tricky plan.
(yes, I know that some of you are laughing and thinking 'now that sounds like Hanna!')
We were planning on taking the boys to IKEA for breakfast Saturday morning and then we'd all wander through the store since Charles had never been there, and we were shopping for a new mattress. I suggested that on the way we should do morning prayer just like on school days. I was driving and we began the pre-prayer review of what and who we needed to pray for and Mikey piped up with "and please help Mom and Dad decide to have more babies." The reaction from Charles was priceless as he was just a wee bit caught off guard! I don't think that I've ever seen his head swivel so fast from front to back or seen him straighten up so fast in all our married life! He then exploded with, "It would be nice to know about these things ahead of time!"
We had our prayer time, arrived at IKEA in time to beat the crowds and had a great breakfast, then a ton of shopping during which the kids were pretty good. By the time we were done there we were all pretty pooped out.
After we had got home from town, we had all our usual chores to still do, and as the evening wore on, Charles and I got more and more on edge with each other. I can't even remember what the argument was all about, but we both ended up in separate rooms grumpy with the other each other. I was sitting in the chair in the living room, knitting away furiously when the Lord said "Now" and I knew exactly what He meant. He meant that now was the time to apologize to Charles for the tubal, and I said back to Him, "Not now.... Really? Now? Oh (sigh) alright." So, I went in to the bedroom where Charles was folding clean laundry and I knelt down at his feet. I was so unnerved that I couldn't even look up at him. I apologized for usurping his authority, for being completely insensitive by not even asking him about scheduling the surgery and for taking control of my life and not trusting God with it.
And that's when freedom came!
I was telling not only Charles, but God as well, that I was sorry for my self-centeredness, that I was giving control back to God.
And my apology freed Charles of the hidden resentment that had been there the last 9 years and neither of us knew it.
We were both FREE! And nothing has been the same since!
I've given all my life to God and I totally trust Him with it. I've turned over my finances and my weight and my marriage and my children... all of it to God.
My marriage has never been better, truly! I'm so in love with this man who has loved and protected me all these years even though I grievously hurt his heart. He is leading our family and I'm submitting and loving it! And the boys are seeing such changes in us that they are making changes!
Oh, thank You Jesus for taking my place, for bearing my despicable sins and for conquering death so that I might be brought near to You! Thank you Lord for faithfully pursuing me all these years, for giving me eyes to see and ears to hear! Thank you for the blessing of each of the boys and especially for Charles, a man who models your love to us. Thank You Father, praise You Jesus! I live for You!


The Love Sethie Fall Shop is Officially Sold Out! New Scents Coming Soon!
My design philosophy relies heavily on my faith and my gifts to mirror the grace of God.
Our homes should be spaces that are an extension of our hearts and how we choose to show up in this world.
My goal is always to design from an aesthetic that is:
Beautiful and Forgiving
Practical and Restorative
Abundant and Timeless
This is by no means perfect. What it does mean is being intentional with anything we bring into your “space of grace.”
Design can be life-giving and, when done with the Holy Spirit at the helm, allows us to be restful in a world full of chaos and uncertainty. I can’t wait to help you turn your home into the sanctuary your heart yearns for.


We Build People!
We believe ministry is “meeting people at the point of their need.” Because some of us may have greater needs than others, our focus is not on maintaining structures and programs, but rather on meeting the relational needs that bind together a worshiping community.
We are a family oriented ministry with an accepting atmosphere, loving attitude, creative praise and worship, and a biblically relevant message for today’s culture.
3014 Marlton Pike (at Lee Ave.)
Pennsauken, NJ 08110
T: (609) 200-NBWC


“The Lord is risen, indeed.”
It was very early on the first day of the week and still dark, when Mary of Magdala came to the tomb. She saw that the stone had been moved away from the tomb and came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved.
“They have taken the Lord out of the tomb,” she said, “and we don’t know where they have put him.”
So Peter set out with the other disciple to go to the tomb. They…saw the linen cloths lying on the ground…and…believed. Till this moment they had still not understood the scripture, that he must rise from the dead.
Below is a reconstruction of what happened from the book The Truth About the Shroud of Turin (Regnery, 2010), pp. 189-191, by my friend Robert K. Wilcox. No matter how many times I read this, it never fails to move me…
View original post 461 more words


Servant Leadership Team (SLT)
Servant Leadership Team
Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
The purpose of the Servant Leadership Team (SLT) is to train students, through theory and practice, in the various aspects of leadership. Those involved in the Crean Lutheran High School Leadership program will have tremendous opportunities to influence the life of their school, community, church, and most importantly, themselves. Leadership is not a responsibility to take lightly. It requires many skills and the development of those skills is the primary focus of this class. The students involved in SLT are responsible for organizing all pep rallies, school dances, elections, lunchtime activities, and Blue Zone activities.
Crean Lutheran High School has adopted the Link Crew program and will not just stand by and allow this rite of passage to happen to our freshmen. We have, with some strategic and intentional actions, put in place a structure where freshmen get the necessary support to successfully navigate this significant transition and start their high school experience on a positive note.


Guest post by "David A."
A note from James Russell Lingerfelt: Wherever we are in life, we are all on a journey. There is never an “arrival.” If this article arises infuriating feelings within, may I invite you to focus on David’s transparency and the courage it took for him to share a story for anyone in the world to read.
This article is not about whether his actions, reactions, life, or leadership is or isn’t admirable. It’s about a man who experienced deep levels of pain and regret, yet mustered the courage to press onward, find hope, and then share his story.
Falling but finding the courage to rise and try again; this is so many of our stories. Through conflict and rising, we become new people. We are never thankful for the hurtful times. But once the wounds become scars and no longer cause pain, we find ourselves thankful for the lessons we learned.
Those scars remind us of where we’ve been and we live with a deeper sense of meaning, purpose, clarity. We are no longer living by theories but realize we now have experience.
In regards to the article below, I’ve developed trusting relationships with spiritual, religious, social, and political leaders. No matter how much you admire a person, or how well put together they seem, at the end of the day, they’re just people.
From David: I was a senior pastor of a church. This was not supposed to happen, not to me. But it did (I speak with the formal naivety I once owned). But things happen to everyone.
Mine was not a case of cheating, but of being a battered husband. The shame and pain, the difficulty for me to forgive, the plethora of unmentioned losses were incalculable: to lose my wife, my children, my home, my ministry after twenty years.
I foolishly concealed what was taking place in my private life because I was ashamed and afraid of what people would think if they found out the truth. My understanding of leadership was skewed.
Men were being mentored for leadership roles in the church, and when I strove to make our home an open home to them, I had no choice but to become completely transparent.
My wife and I were married for 17 years. During the last 3 years of our marriage, her violence erupted regularly. It began after we had returned form overseas missionary work. She had a breakdown after encountering all the suffering in third world countries.
She punched, kicked, bit. Once while we were riding in the van, she jerked the steering wheel trying to make us wreck. The kids were loaded in the back. Sometimes she expended so much energy she would go to bed for a couple of days at a time.
I didn’t know how to handle this. I had never raised my hand or my voice at her. We had fifteen years of happy, harmonious marriage. Love and mutual respect. But during the violence, there were times when all I could do was get out of the home and walk the streets. When it began to happen in front of my kids, that was the real humiliation.
We went to a self help group and discovered that about other couples shared similar stories of their wive’s violence. This was more widespread than we expected.
I stepped down from my position at the church and tried another 3 years to save our marriage. I had no idea what I was doing. It’s not like there’s a handbook to every single situation in life. Depression set in and I was overcome with a deep sense of failure.
The weight of believing I had let my kids down, the people in the church, and all the rest. Here’s a theologian’s question: How is it that all I've been taught and teach myself doesn’t work where the rubber meets the road?
My heart went out to Gerald Rogers for his article. His many noble and mentioned shortcomings. But he is only in the first stages of his walk as a single man. Will he carry the stigma of a divorcee? And the destructive baggage of his past? I hope not.
It took me ten years of seeking healing before I began to find some measure of peace. Part of this is in fault of my carrying secret guilt, shame, failure, and my unwillingness to forgive my wife.
I have never ever contemplated suicide because I believe there is too much loving to do. But I understand those who have.
Years of secret pain, at times, felt unbearable. I knew these experiences would effect my three boys and even shape the paths they choose in life. And I was not there to help guide them through the week since I could only visit with them on the weekends.
Then, taking them home and the aggression and violence of my wife attacking me in the street… Unforgiving spouses can use the children in the destructive game of “I’m taking vengeance.”
I learned through all of the pain and failure, that guilt and shame are the most difficult of all, because I had to live with me. I hated what I had done, thus hated myself.
I told the man in the mirror that I hadn’t loved enough, laid down my life enough, given my wife enough attention and concern, etc. This, in turn, evoked more resentment from her.
After fourteen years, I’ve arrived to a period of discovering grace and new beginnings at a whole new level. I became a man set free. Many will not or ever understand this.
I had grown a beard and grew accustomed to wearing sunglasses so that people couldn’t recognize me or see into my eyes. But then I shaved and discarded the glasses, as if I was reborn.
During the time of our separation and divorce, I had made attempts to reconcile, but we both carried so much past baggage, hurt and resentment. We remained separated, and some years later, she passed away from cancer.
It wasn’t long after, that I was introduced to a woman through mutual friends. A wonderful woman who had come out of a destructive marriage with an unfaithful husband. And she too had found healing. Within a week of dating her, I had fallen in love with her and proposed. And we were married three months later.
We have been happily married now for over fifteen years. There is life after divorce. Just make sure you have found healing from the past, that all the cupboards that could potentially hold skeletons are swept clean and cleared out.
There is hope.
Read another popular post: Don’t Ever Apologize For Loving Someone – Not Ever!
Did you like this article? Check out these coming-of-age love stories from the male perspective by James Russell Lingerfelt. Follow James Russell Lingerfelt on Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter or subscribe to his email list for updates.


History of the Alice Sisson Ministry Center
Alice Sisson was born in the house at 1516 Market Street on October 18, 1918. She was a member of St. Andrews-Covenant Presbyterian Church for seventy-four years, from 1930 to her death in 2004.
When Alice died, she still worked as a counselor for Family services and was active on St. Andrews-Covenant’s Service and Outreach Committee as a supportive liaison for Family Services and the Elderhaus. Alice was proud to be an elder of St. Andrews-Covenant and the Presbyterian Church (USA). Her mind was vivid and her heart warm.
Alice was passionate about helping people live full and healthy lives, physically, emotionally and spiritually. She selflessly gave her time and talent to the suffering and undeserved in our community.
She insisted that the church live up to its calling, identified by the prophet Isaiah and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, He has sent me to proclaim release to the captive and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor Isaiah 61:1, Luke 4:18-19
In the manner in which Alice lived out her life we want this Center to be a place of learning, serving, deepening of relationships with God and with others while providing a most hospitable environment.


Holy Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, is a significant day in the Christian calendar. It commemorates the Last Supper, the final meal that Jesus Christ shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. This solemn occasion is marked by various traditions and practices, some of which date back centuries.
The Origin of Holy Thursday
The origins of Holy Thursday can be traced back to the Jewish tradition of Passover. Passover commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt, and it is celebrated by the Jewish community every spring. According to the Bible, Jesus and his disciples were in Jerusalem to celebrate Passover when he instituted the Last Supper.
During the Last Supper, Jesus broke bread and shared it with his disciples, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” He then took a cup of wine and said, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” These words are the foundation of the Christian sacrament of Holy Communion.
In addition to the Last Supper, Holy Thursday also marks the occasion when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples. This act of service and humility is a powerful symbol of Jesus’ love for his followers and his willingness to serve them, even in the face of imminent death.
Holy Thursday Traditions
Holy Thursday is a day of fasting and penance in many Christian denominations. It is also the start of the Triduum, the three-day period leading up to Easter Sunday. Many churches hold special services on Holy Thursday, including the Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
During the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the priest washes the feet of 12 people, representing the 12 disciples. This ritual is a reminder of Jesus’ act of service and humility and serves as an invitation to follow in his footsteps. The Eucharist is also an important part of this Mass, as it commemorates the Last Supper.
Another Holy Thursday tradition is the stripping of the altar. After the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, the altar is stripped of all decorations, including the altar cloths and candles. This symbolizes the stripping away of all earthly comforts and the impending darkness of Jesus’ crucifixion.
In some Christian communities, Holy Thursday is also a day of pilgrimage. Many people visit churches and religious sites to pray and reflect on the events of the Last Supper. Others may choose to perform acts of charity or service in honor of Jesus’ act of washing his disciples’ feet.
The Significance of Holy Thursday
Holy Thursday holds great significance for Christians around the world. It is a reminder of Jesus’ love and sacrifice, and it invites us to reflect on our own lives and actions. The act of washing feet is particularly powerful, as it reminds us to serve others with humility and selflessness.
The Last Supper also serves as a reminder of the importance of communion and fellowship. Jesus shared a meal with his disciples, breaking bread and pouring wine, and in doing so, he invited them into a deeper relationship with him. This act of communion is still celebrated by Christians today, as they gather to share the Eucharist and to remember Jesus’ sacrifice.
Holy Thursday is a solemn and meaningful occasion for Christians around the world. It invites us to reflect on Jesus’ love and sacrifice and to consider our own actions in light of his example. The rituals and traditions associated with Holy Thursday serve as powerful reminders of Jesus’ teachings and his call to serve others with humility and selflessness. As we celebrate Holy Thursday, let us remember Jesus’ love and sacrifice and strive to follow in his footsteps.


Hi, my name is Simon Hones, and I’m the Priest-in-Charge of St John’s Church. Because our school is a Church School, I became one of the Foundation Governors when I moved to Marchwood in November 2011. I am on the Teaching and Learning Committee of the Governors. My particular areas of focus are the spiritual welfare and development of our children and the overall character, balance and values of the school. I lead worship with some or all of the children each week, which gives me a privileged relationship with them that I enjoy very much. I have been a governor at various church schools since 1990. For relaxation I grow rare and exotic plants.


At Mosaic, we believe that being ethnically diverse is important. Yes, it reflects our community, but more importantly it reflects the heart of God.
We have the Honor to serve Original Aurora, our home, which has one of the highest rates of poverty in the Denver area. Whatever your situation, you are welcome here.
Mosaic seeks to offer long-term solutions and help people to help themselves, providing sustainability and light into dark places.
Worship With Us
English @ 10:30am Sundays Español @ 1:00pm Sundays
Join us for ONE Worship Service
1st Sunday of the Month at 11:30am
Transformed by the
power and presence
of Jesus Christ.
At Mosaic, we know that the most important transformation is the work that Jesus Christ can do in our Spirits. All other transformation starts here.
Art is a beautiful way that our community can express the transformative work of Jesus. Our Online art gallery is coming soon where you can see how Jesus is moving in the neighborhood through expressions of local art and cultural expression.
We believe that through the power of Jesus, we can become new creations. But it doesn't stop there. We believe this transformation is meant to proceed from us, and into our community.


Mothers day champagne evening
On 28th April 2012 we held our second Champagne evening at Jens house. 65 guests enjoyed an evening of socialising, shopping, champagne and canapes. Prizes were won, gifts were purchased and fun was had but the most important thing was
that funds were raised to continue our support of the Cambodian Christian School. Thank you to all who attended and supported Steps with Hope. Our next function will be the Spring Fair to be held early November. Hope to see you there!


We had a fantastic launch Sunday night! The tweens brought outstanding enthusiasm and excitement. Many s’mores were consumed, faces and hands got sticky, trees were climbed, and we even snuck in a little religious education amidst the icebreakers and giggles! To start, the kids had the chance to share about their hopes for the group, and we heard everything from “making new friends,” to “getting to eat sour candy,” to “petting a bunny” to “going to the planetarium.” We’ll see what we can do to make it all happen! 😀
Our theme for the first two weeks is exploring the Book of Psalms. I wanted to introduce the psalms off the bat because they are a great example of how God’s people have wrestled with faith and life. They are expressions of hope, fear, doubt and praise. The tween years are a time when a lot of these emotions/questions bubble up, and I wanted to impress upon the kids that Fearless is a place where they can share their thoughts and feelings about faith and life with each other and with God. Brad Turner was our “content expert” for the evening and will join us again next Sunday. He shared a fantastic Psalm rap that he’d written about gratitude for the blessings of this life. The kids then had the chance to write their own Psalms, whether as a chalk doodle or with pen and paper. For our closing ritual, we shared something we are grateful for and ended in prayer. Then commenced the (supervised) “throwing random things in the fire” phase of the evening before parents arrived!
I look forward to getting to know our tweens and providing opportunities for them to have fun and to grow in faith.


Archive for downloading
“And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. 36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. 37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. 40 And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” Mark 4:35-41
A little over a week ago, our local area experienced one of the most devastating storms in its history. Overnight, we received over six inches of rain causing flash flooding, severely damaging many roads and homes. The storm caused upwards of $50 million damage to our roads, homes and property. In addition to those losses, was the life of a twelve year-old boy, who died not long after the basement of his home collapsed upon him.
Perhaps our first instinct in these situations is to ponder why God allows them to happen. Does God really care? A week after the storm, the appointed Gospel reading from Mark chapter 4 poses that very question. When the great storm arose, the waves were so great that the ship was filling up with water. The fearful disciples looked to Jesus for help, and found Him asleep. “Master, carest thou not that we perish?” It is significant to note that Jesus’ presence in the ship did not keep the storm from coming. The presence of the storm does not signify the absence of God. The same is true for us, when we face the storms of this earthly life. Just because we are God’s children does not mean that we will never face troubles in this world. Peace is not the absence of conflict, it is the presence of God. The disciples did the right thing when the storm arose. They looked for Jesus. And they found Him in their ship.
Does God care? He certainly does. God cares so much about the storm of sin that He sent Jesus to die in our place “And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” I John 2:2 God cares so much about the storm of death that He has destroyed its power through the death and Resurrection of Jesus. God cares so much about the storm of suffering that sent His Son to suffer along with us, in order that He might finally put an end to all suffering. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 We need not look far for God in the midst of our trials. He is in our “ship.”
In the aftermath of the storm, we see signs of God’s presence all around us. Neighbors helping neighbors. Churches and relief agencies opening their buildings to provide supplies for the needy. Volunteers from near and far helping victims clean up and repair their homes. God’s children from all over the country and abroad upholding us in prayer. God is present. God is present in the Body of His Son. And, He is present in the continued proclamation of the glorious Gospel of His Son, Jesus Christ. May God grant us all strength as we journey through the storms of life, resting in His gracious and unfailing promises.
“…Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art Mine. 2 When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. 3 For I am the Lord thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour…” Isaiah 43:1-3
Yours in Christ,
Pastor Chuck Bylkas
In memory of Dr. Albert Saari
from Ken & Sylvia Hanninen
Dave & Marilyn Mickelsen
In memory of Nancy Helmes
In memory of Gerald DeMotts
From Myra DeMotts
In honor of Dr. Albert Saari
from Boveda, Inc.
FALL SEMESTER CLASSES OFFERED
Tentatively the daily classes offered this fall will be Principles of Biblical Interpretation (3 credits), Christian Dogmatics I (3 credits), New
Testament Introduction (2 credits) and Galatian & Thessalonians Epistles (1 credit) and Working as a Deaconess II (2 credits).
The book of Revelation will be the Thursday night class beginning August 29 at the Eastwood Apostolic Lutheran Church in Negaunee, MI and the Monday night class beginning September 10 in Hancock, MI. If you choose to take the Monday night class on line, please register soon because space is limited.
For additional information on each class visit our website at www.ilseminary.org, contact the seminary at (906) 482-3337 or send an email to email@example.com.
THERE ARE OTHER WAYS TO SUPPORT THE SEMINARY.
Have you ever have used Amazon.com to do your shopping? Now AmazonSmile offers the same products, same prices and same service and will also donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to Inter-Lutheran Theological Seminary whenever you shop on AmazonSmile.
Simply log use in by using this link….
which will bring you directly to smile.amazon.com in support of our organization.
The Thrivent Choice® program offers a way members can recommend where Thrivent Financial distributes some of its charitable outreach funds. As a benefit member, your ownership of Thrivent Financial products and services help make this support possible.
Remember….If you are an eligible member 16 and older you can recommend how to distribute Thrivent Financial charitable grant funds thought Choice Dollars®. Member eligibility and the Choice Dollars designated are based on:
• Holding a Thrivent Financial volunteer leadership position; or
• Having $750 or more in annual premiums of qualifying
insurance products; or
• Having $20,000 or more in contract value of qualifying products.
For more information about Choice Dollars, visit http://www.Thrivent.com/thriventchoice or call 800-847-4836 or contact your local Thrivent Financial representative.
INFAITH COMMUNITY FOUNDATION:
Several years ago, the Seminary board of directors established the
Inter-Lutheran Seminary Endowment Fund. Funds contributed to the endowment are
not used for current day to day operations. Only the annual earnings of the
endowment will be used for the seminary’s needs thereby ensuring the continued
existence of this funding source. This is the preferred method used by many
non-profit entities, especially ongoing religiously focused organizations such
While this is an excellent strategy, it has proven a challenge for us to actually meet the minimum funding requirements. Until now, the fund has existed but remained unfunded. By the Lord’s grace we have been blessed with a large contribution to fund the Inter-Lutheran Seminary Endowment Fund. We would love to build on this generous contribution to grow our endowment into a major source of ongoing seminary support.
Although the seminary still needs the financial ongoing regular contributions of our supporters, please consider the endowment fund for your planned giving needs. The seminary has chosen the InFaith Community Endowment Fund (the renamed Lutheran Brotherhood Foundation) to administer our endowment fund. They will provide experienced legal advice to help guide you with any contribution questions done through estate planning in addition to lump sum contributions, IRAs, property and securities. For more additional information, please contact Kirk Otto, Jr. at (715) 294-4343 or Cheryl Hendrickson at (906)482-3337.
If you are receiving this newsletter in error or would prefer to be taken off the mailing list, please complete the form below and mail to: P.O. Box 449, Hancock, MI 49930.
Or call 906-482-3337 or email: firstname.lastname@example.org. Thank you!
I wish to be removed from the Inter-Lutheran Seminary’s mailing list.
James Weidner, President
P.O. Box 449
Hancock, MI 49930


Welcome to Maranatha Baptist Church
We invite you to visit us at Maranatha Baptist Church.
Easter Sunday - 11:00 AM Drive-in Service
In light of COVID-19 restrictions, for the morning service, we'll be joining together (safely in our cars) for a "drive-in" service.
Evening Service 6:00 PM: In light of COVID-19 restrictions, the service will be held online using Google Hangouts:
PIN: 745 559 064#
A family-oriented ministry, we are a warm, friendly church where you and your family will feel welcome. Our goal is to glorify God and to share the Christ of the Bible with those in Anchorage and throughout the world.
We look forward to seeing you soon. If you have any questions, please contact us at 907-338-2321 or email us at email@example.com or complete the contact form below.
When & Where
10:00 AM - Sunday School
11:00 AM - Morning Worship
6:00 PM - Evening Service
7:00 PM - Prayer Meeting


On this solo episode, I look at three examples of theological liberalism in my former church body, the ELCA. One is the Naked and UNAshamed, er, ministry. The other is a new church start tentatively called St. Jezebel's. And the third is Decolonize Lutheranism. While each is relatively small, they seem to accurately represent where theological liberals are headed. They indicate a pretty clear lack of theological boundaries and postmodern attempts to redefine and reclaim evils of the past. As always, I'm open to dialogue on these or other movements if you're interested. Just email me! Also, as a warning, I'm not labeling this episode clean, though there is no profanity. Some of the themes are more appropriate for adults because they deal with sexuality.
Why the name “Sin Boldly”? Martin Luther wrote to his friend Philip Melanchthon in 1521: “If you are a preacher of mercy, do not preach an imaginary but the true mercy. If the mercy is true, you must therefore bear the true, not an imaginary sin. God does not save those who are only imaginary sinners. Be a sinner, and let your sins be strong [sin boldly], but let your trust in Christ be stronger, and rejoice in Christ who is the victor over sin, death, and the world.” To sin boldly, therefore, is not to seek unholy living, but to follow the course we believe the Bible demands even if the world is against us. And if and when we sin, trust in an even greater savior.


Exodus and Contentment
From my little vacation in Roxas City, I have learned about how Moses led the Israelites in their Exodus from Egypt. For 40 years, they traveled in the hopes in getting to the promised land. During the course of their travel, the Lord provided them with their needs and has never forsaken them. He provided them with manna and then quails so they would be able to survive. God was their ultimate Provider yet the people became so discontented and started to murmur against God. They started to complain about how their lives were far better if they stayed in Egypt. Little did they know that God has prepared for them much greater horizons and much more blessings.
Many times in our lives, we often complain about how difficult are situations are. We often compare our status to that of others who have much better standing in life. I happen to be the kind of person who lack a lot of material things in life. I grew up without a roof of our own, eating simple foods and dream about the day when I could get to eat all foods that I want, travel to places aside from my own country and so many other whims. Perhaps that's what you feel when you're deprived with so much worldly pleasures.
I may not have all the things I want, but I am always grateful to God that I have all the things that I need. He never failed to provide me and my mom with all our necessities. Just like the Israelites in the Old Testament, we need to look to God and live simply. He wanted to prove to us that He exists and that He knows our needs, and if we are faithful enough, He will grant the desires of our hearts in His own due time. God has a perfect timetable and He knows what's best for us. If we want something, we can do all that we can to reach it but without God, all our toil will be in vain.
40 Years of Travel
We may wonder why it took them so many years to travel and still didn't get to reach their destination. Many times during their travel, the Israelites became wicked, stubborn and discontented. There's a cycle in every human's life wherein when one becomes blessed, he often turns away from God who gave and provided him with everything. Once he loses, he would then be chastised and beg God for forgiveness. It's a cycle when people are faithful-wicked-faithful depending on one's circumstances.
It is not a sin to be rich. We all want and need to have our basic needs and God actually wants us to be prosperous. However, sometimes we get so caught up with our riches and blessings that we sometimes forget where it all came from.
The Israelites could have traveled in shorter period of time and reach their destination. However, they lost their faith, became puffed up and wicked that God has to chastise them.
Yes, No or Wait
Did you ever wonder if God really hears and answers our prayers? He does! He always do.
The manner of how He answers them is what we often fail to recognize and think that He has abandoned us when the truth is, He always listens to our prayers and constantly yearns for us to constantly communicate with Him.
He answers with yes, no or wait.
I have a lot of prayers and most of the time, they don't get the affirmative responses. I wonder if God may be too busy working on other people's much more pressing concerns. Later did I realize that He does answer all our prayers in His own due time. If only we could get a glimpse of His timetable and have a broader perspective that which is not limited to the current situation.
God's Plan to Prosper You
When I enrolled in the Central Philippine University, Business and Accountancy major Marketing, I was concurrently working in a call center on a graveyard shift. It wasn't an easy joggling. It thought I was living the best of both worlds.
Every time I came across difficult tests (mainly because I didn't have the chance to review my notes), I would look at the back portion of the test questionnaire. There I would read what seems to be the most commonly used wish of goodluck from the teachers.
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11
I would then have the courage to do all that I can and I know that God hears and answers prayers, after all that I have done. It is very important that we should do our part in order for us to prosper.
In the process, it is essential that we should strive to align our plans to that of God.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. - Matthew 6:33
In our quest for success, let us always keep in mind that God will prosper those who do their part, keep their faith (that is to stay humble despite all the success) and you will see that He will open the gates of heaven and pour out bountiful blessings to you.
But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today. - Deuteronomy 8:18
As you hope in your heart of prosperous life, be sure to look to God in all that you do, and live. He will keep His promise as you continually keep yours.


Still, A Deep Quest for Wholeness
Of course, she would want to be free of HIV. Of course, I could pray for her and her sisters-of-another-mother. However, the center of my thoughts was how much I wanted wholeness for each person in the room: not just freedom from disease, but a full embrace from God, living God. Particularly, the one woman in the back. I knew that gathering with others monthly at Kale Heywet Church in Addis Ababa brought mixed feelings: the marginalizing reminder that she is part of the group labeled PLWHA (People living with HIV and AIDS) perhaps contrasting with moments of felt freedom each time she attended …maybe even evidence of God’s presence.
Joining a roomful of women wrapped mostly in white cotton- 40+packed together in a dusty cool room at the end of a long day, we listened to a woman they knew from months of talks and practical assistance. The speaker’s face was bright and confident as she finished speaking in Amharic. I suspected that she also lived with the disease; but she looked different, she knew liberation of a different sort. What kind of release did the group want for themselves?
I sat in the back near a woman who clearly didn’t want to be there. While others followed the words of the speaker, she tolerated. Everything about her body said she wanted out. Perhaps she was not a Christ-follower, perhaps an Orthodox Christian but suspicious of Evangelicals, maybe secular, traditional or Muslim-background in her beliefs. No matter, KHC served all with kindness. Following the message, guests were introduced by our Ethiopian team member.
As he spoke, my thoughts returned to how much I wanted each woman to know healing from the brokenness she felt, from a sense of distance from God, persecution from those close to her, memories of abuse and hardship, shame, lost loved ones or continuing anguish over her circumstances. Boldly, I responded to the internal prompting and asked permission to follow the leading. As others prayed and sang, I moved through the room, laying my hands on each woman in prayerful petition—touching her shoulder, head or back. Many were already weeping. What would God want for their broken lives? How should I pray? The Spirit led on.
Kondwani in Malawi: Knowledge is Power
1 in 8 adults in Malawi are infected with HIV. Kondwani Kanyimbiri is building bridges with HOPE for AIDS in rural Malawi and his peers to bring this number down. Over the last 4 years, he has worked with 100 peer educators in area churches to reach their own communities with AIDS Education and words of hope to help Christians reach out to their HIV positive neighbors.
Once trained, the educators run ten-week rurally-based courses and AIDS awareness events using drama, debate, song and sport. Volunteers are growing in capacity AND confidence as the see God changing perspectives. The more Kondwani grows, the more he mentors his peers.
The HOPE for AIDS Prevention of HIV & AIDS program in Malawi supports skilled and godly men like Kondwani who are making a difference in local communities. If you’d like to sponsor the work, find our donate page and give online to to project 96554.
Epilepsy, Holy Water and Street Orthodoxy
Addis contracted HIV from her parents. She lost her mom when she was 3 and her Dad when she was 10. She and her sister Rekik thought they may be fine if they could just care for each other. An epileptic episode struck Rekik when the two girls traveled far from home toward a church thinking the Holy Water they found there might heal both of their conditions. When they stepped through the door, Rekik’s episode hit and she, too, passed from Addis’s life that day.
Looking for care, Addis approached her grandmother but was turned away for fear that the HIV virus may contaminate her home. So, left again, on her own, Addis gave it a try. Self support. Living in Northern Ethiopia, she was advised by people in her village to head toward Addis Ababa where she would have a better chance of survival by begging on the streets. They gave her money for a bus ticket and she was on her way.
While on the streets, government workers noticed her, reported her to the HOPE for AIDS Orphan Care program and this is where we met. Right away, we enrolled her in our support services and she now has shelter at the Orthodox church, domestic items to make her stay comfortable, a seat in the fifth grade class at the community school, a uniform, pencils, paper and meals.
When Addis checks in every week, she talks about missing her dad. She cries. We cry. 12 years old is not the time to be on your own. We’re working, praying to keep her close. So far, her neighbors were right. She’s rebuilding a family. In Addis.


East Wind International Ministries
Exodus 14:21 "And the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong EAST WIND all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided."
Welcome to East Wind
Where we Love you back to Life with the Love of Christ!
Thanks for visiting!
We hope you can find everything you need. Company Name is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction - we will do everything we can to meet your expectations.
With a variety of offerings to choose from, we're sure you'll be happy working with us. Look around our website and if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to contact us.
July 15, 2016
Baptism Sunday Every 4th Sunday
June 19, 2016
Youth Sunday Every 5th Sunday
July 31, 2016
The youth of the church lead service, building skills and teaching them how to be closer to God.


I was reading an email that my mom sent me just now and I actually sat here and cried...I immediately copied the quote that brought me to tears to post it on my blog.
Here it is:
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle..
Even though pregnancy is so hard on me..and I am soooo ready for it to be over, this is so true!
I love both of my boys so much and I am so blessed that I have been able to carry both of them inside me as they grow!


The year is 1536. For the past three years, England and its people have been at the mercy of a hostile political environment after the country renounced its ties to the Roman Catholic Church. At the heart of this conflict stand two English Queens: Catherine of Aragon, a devout Roman Catholic, and Anne Boleyn, the woman who inspired the English reformation. re:Naissance Opera and TENET Vocal Artists (NYC) invoke the ghosts of these English Queens and tell the tale of their intertwined lives through songs and ballads from their iconic courts.
This performance features: Jolle Greenleaf, Soprano; Debi Wong, Mezzo-Soprano; Adam Cockerham & Charles Weaver, Lutes.
Saturday, February 9th @ 7:30pm
Oak Bay United Church
1355 Mitchell Street, Victoria, BC
Presented by Victoria Ancient Music Society
Sunday, February 10th @ 3:00pm
823 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC
Made possible by Vancouver Civic Theatres


This post is linked to The Simple Woman’s Daybook
Outside my window…cool but sunny.
I am thinking…God is good!
I am thankful…so many I know are safe with regards to Hurricane Sandy – praise the Lord!
In the kitchen…mostly clean dishes. YAY! (Like how I avoided the cooking thing this time?? LOL)
I am wearing…bed pants and a t-shirt.
I am creating…a home the Lord would be proud of (or at least trying to).
I am wondering…the outcome of a couple pretty big decisions – decisions I have no say in. LOL
hoping praying…for all those still dealing with Hurricane Sandy.
I am looking forward to…knowing the answers to the decisions. *grin*
I am learning…how to be a woman of God who puts her husband and family first.
Around the house… laundry already going.
I am pondering…the ways of the Lord…
A favorite quote for today…our Good Morning Girls verse of the day: Col 3:17 – And whatever you do in word or in deed, do all in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks through Him to God the Father. (NASB)
A few plans for the rest of the week: work, church, play, homeschool, cook, clean – you know, the usual.
A peek into my day (yesterday)...Not much and we liked it that way!
Add any picture:
Have a wonderfully blessed day!