This program is for faithful Catholics who are ready to commit a year (or semester) of their lives to living in community, being formed spiritually and receiving educational training all geared towards your mission to love and serve the poor. Find Out More >>
Our Mission relies completely on the generosity of people like you who are passionate about helping the poor by donating food, much needed items, or funds. Donate Now >>
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Christ in the City
As the weather turns cold please consider donating your old coats and scarves so we can get them to those who desperately need them. If you would like information on how to run a clothing drive please contact us!
SPECIAL DONATION NEEDS:
PAPER PLATES PLASTIC CUPS AND FORKS
SINGE USE LOTION, SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER
Christ in the City is called "Solidarity in Action" for tax reasons, but be assuerd we are on in the same.


Reviews for the "Full Circle" - EP
“…Woods has always delivered encouraging messages through her music and ministry, with such hit singles as “Happy,” “Big Enough” and “Beauty.” Her ministry has also focused on women and teen girl conferences that teach them who they are in Christ, with appearances that included Thomas Nelson’s Women of Faith events, as well as their spin off for girls’ Revolve Tour. This ministry is also important for Ayiesha’s family, as their motto is Love God, Love People. Serve God, Serve People.Woods will be releasing her new album, Full Circle, in the fall, which features the current single…”
-By Timothy Yap of JubileeCast.com Aug 17, 2020.
Full Article can be Read Here.
To Read More Reviews of Ayiesha’s Music Go Here
AVAILABLE NOW ON AYIESHAWOODS.COM
AYIESHA's MOST RECENT VIDEO
Ayiesha Woods-Hillery is a Grammy nominated singer, songwriter, musician and now wife and mother. Ayiesha is a multi-talented artist who has certainly made her mark in Christian music and ministry.
Ayiesha and her husband, Joseph Sr. currently have 3 boys: Joseph II, Benjamin & Asher. With a fourth son expected in mid-2020. Their family motto is “Love God, Love People. Serve God, Serve People.”


We are honored that
you are visiting our web site. At Faith Baptist Church, we are seeking to provide a truly Biblical worship experience that
we trust the Lord can bless to the furtherance of His kingdom. We are always striving to find new ways to get our
message out to our community. It is in that spirit that we present to you this web site in hopes that we might be able to
touch the lives of people we may never have been able to contact personally.
Please use this site to acquaint yourself
with our ministry and as a resource for deepening your faith. We look forward to hearing from you, answering any questions
you might have, and also having you join in worship some time real soon!


Parents & Friends Association
The St Mary’s community embraces a close working relationship between the College Board, staff, parents, students and the broader community. The St Mary’s Parents & Friends Association plays a key role in achieving this goal.
Ask today how you can shape the future of St Mary’s by participating in the St Mary’s Parents and Friends Association. To enquire about upcoming meetings or to volunteer at the tuck shop, please contact the College reception:
T 40444 200
P & F EXECUTIVE:
President: Mark Ligasacchi
Vice President: Eloise Harnett
Treasurer: Lyn Lynch
Vice Treasurer: Lisa Hitchings
Secretary: Caroline Moss
WHAT WE DO:
Supporting the role of parents and carers, as participants in the optimum spiritual, intellectual, social
and physical growth of students in Catholic education.
Funds raised through operation of the Tuckshop and Uniform shop by our volunteers are directed back
to the College, to support numerous projects and educational initiatives.
P & F Association Meetings
The St Mary’s P & F Association meets monthly:
Day: 3rd Tuesday of every month
Time: 7.00pm for 7.30pm
Place: College Boardroom, St Mary’s Catholic College


The family of the Church of the Ascension, United Church of Christ,
strive for love, justice, and equality for all of God's children.
We believe that in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
In time God placed creatures on the earth,
from dinosaurs to bugs, culminating in the wondrous variety of the world's people.
We believe that a faithful reading of
Scripture reveals that people were
not simply of one sort,
but of many sorts. As an Open-and-Affirming
congregation, we welcome those of every gender,
sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, just as we welcome into our family of
faith people of every ability, age, race, nationality, economic and social status, faith background,
marital standing and family structure.
Weekly worship begins at 11:00 AM.
Ascension is launching a new program to make giving easier. We are partnering with Vanco, a PCI-compliant web donations company, who provide this service to many UCC churches, including New Goshenhoppen UCC in East Greenville. This service will allow members of the congregation to contribute weekly, monthly or yearly. Follow the link below to access the secure offering web site.
Upcoming Special Events


Recognition soared with Gothic church buildings, it fell into disrepute throughout the Reformation, and now it has resurfaced in our homes and organizations, similarly to our church buildings. Now it is a profitable and low-priced interest for people anywhere.
Before recorded history, people observed that they could upload metallic salts and oxides to glass and that could make colours; gold made a cranberry color, cobalt made blue, silver made yellow and golds, and copper made veggies. It appears that wealthy Romans in their villas and palaces in Pompeii and Herculaneum have been the use of stained glass in the first century AD. It become while Christians had been beginning to build churches, primarily based on Byzantine rose gold glasses frames ones, in 313 AD that stained glass started out to be considered as an artwork form. The earliest surviving piece of a stained glass photograph changed into a “Head of Christ” from the 10th century. The reputation and growth of stained glass had been very lots tied in with the recognition and boom of churches.
In the Romanesque duration, stained glass changed into inspired with the aid of the Byzantine fashion evolved by using Arabs. The windows on those church buildings had been fairly small and used in particular pink and blue pictures surrounded via white glass in order to allow as an awful lot light as possible. About 1100 AD, Theophilus, a monk, defined a way to make stained glass home windows and his methods have infrequently modified seeing that.
It was in the Gothic duration, beginning within the 13th century, that stained glass windows in churches actually started out to blossom. Suger, the abbot of the Abbey of St Denis, changed into the first to build his church inside the Gothic layout. Gothic churches allowed for larger windows and those had been constituted of stained glass; Abbot Suger believed that beautiful items could lift guys’s souls toward God. In the 15th century, stained glass started out to be considered extra as a image (with paler colorings and larger figures) and less of an experience of (God’s greatness)
During the Renaissance, there was a new emphasis on three-dimensional perspective. People considered medieval stained glass barbaric. Stained glass home windows became product of white glass which become closely painted, and lead traces had been camouflaged. Artists were patronized through the rich, and stained glass started out to be seen in more private houses and public buildings.
During the Reformation of the 16th century, there has been enormous destruction of stained glass home windows, due to the fact non secular imagery turned into now not tolerated. For about 200 years, stained glass become now not popular.
In England, within the nineteenth century, there has been a revival of hobby in Gothic church layout, and stained glass home windows with it. Gothic Revival churches of the Anglican and Episcopalian church buildings in America required stained glass windows, and this brought about their improvement in America.
John LaFarge was an American painter who, in 1879, advanced and copyrighted
opalescent glass; and some other American painter, Louis Comfort Tiffany made it popular. Opalescent glass turned into semi opaque with a milky opalescent impact and turned into commonly a mixture of colours with streaks and swirls. Tiffany labored with the Art Nouveau fashion and created remarkable portions. Tiffany used the new technology of skinny strips of copper rather for lead and tailored this so that it will construct lampshades. The opalescent glass stayed popular into the start of the 20th century, however nowadays few glassmakers make it due to the poisonous chemical compounds required.
After W.W. 1, humans had been greater interested by windows for neo-Gothic church buildings, and stained glass fell in reputation until painting became more summary and expressionist after W.W. 2 which influenced many artists to discover stained glass.
During the last 30 years there has been an explosion of hobby of hobby in stained glass. It’s long past far past its spiritual beginnings. You regularly see stunning stained glass home windows in homes, even less high-priced ones, and organizations; similarly to church home windows. Most craft suggests have stained glass nightlights, lamps, and/or other stained glass art gadgets. Although the substances needed to make stained glass are high priced, it’s far a totally profitable hobby. There’s one issue about stained glass that hasn’t changed. Creating beautiful stained glass nonetheless brings us closer to God.


Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download: A Comprehensive Guide to Biblical Theology
If you are looking for a reliable and authoritative source of biblical theology, you may want to consider Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download. This is a dictionary of biblical theology that covers the main themes of revelation, history, liturgy and doctrine in a historical-critical perspective. It is based on the work of Xavier Leon-Dufour, a renowned French Jesuit scholar and exegete, who edited and coordinated the original French edition with the help of other experts. The Italian edition, which is completely revised and updated on the second French edition, is edited by Giovanni Viola and Ambretta Milanoli.
In this article, we will give you an overview of what Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download offers, how it is organized, and how you can benefit from it. We will also provide you with some tips on how to download it for free.
What is Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download?
Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download is a dictionary of biblical theology that aims to provide a comprehensive and synthetic understanding of the biblical message. It is not a mere collection of definitions or explanations of terms, but a coherent exposition of the main themes and concepts that shape the biblical revelation. It also connects the biblical data with the historical and religious context, as well as with the liturgical and doctrinal implications.
The dictionary is divided into two volumes: the first one contains more than 500 entries arranged in alphabetical order, covering topics such as God, creation, covenant, law, prophecy, wisdom, Jesus Christ, church, sacraments, eschatology, etc. The second one contains indexes of biblical references, names, subjects and cross-references. Each entry is written by a specialist in the field and provides a clear and concise summary of the topic, followed by a bibliography for further reading.
How is Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download organized?
Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download follows a historical-critical approach to biblical theology. This means that it takes into account the historical development and diversity of the biblical writings, as well as their literary genres and forms. It also recognizes the role of human authors and editors in shaping the biblical text, while affirming its divine inspiration and authority.
The dictionary adopts a chronological-historical schema for its entries. This means that it traces the evolution and transformation of each theme or concept throughout the different stages and periods of biblical history. For example, the entry on "God" starts with the pre-biblical notions of divinity in ancient Near Eastern cultures, then moves to the patriarchal traditions of Israel's ancestors, then to the Mosaic revelation at Sinai, then to the prophetic critique of idolatry and injustice, then to the wisdom literature's reflection on God's transcendence and immanence, then to the New Testament's proclamation of God's self-revelation in Jesus Christ and his Spirit.
The dictionary also pays attention to the semantic and doctrinal aspects of each theme or concept. This means that it analyzes not only what each term means in its original context and language, but also how it relates to other terms and concepts in the biblical canon. It also explores how each theme or concept has been interpreted and applied by later Christian traditions and communities.
How can you benefit from Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download?
Leon Dufour Dizionario Di Teologia Biblica Pdf Download is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the biblical message. Whether you are a student, a teacher, a preacher, a catechist or a layperson interested in Scripture, you will find this dictionary helpful and informative. It will help you to:
Gain a comprehensive overview of the main themes and concepts of biblical theology
Understand the historical development and diversity of the biblical writings
Discover the connections between the biblical data and their historical and religious context 061ffe29dd


The centre can be hired out for use by other evangelical organisations, churches etc. This can be for a week, a weekend or just a day. The centre has great facilities itself for living, dining, meeting, contemplating and more sporty activities. It's ideal for camps, conferences and retreats. There's also a great deal to do and see within a short drive in this beautiful and cultural part of Scotland. Our current rates are available and contact details if you wish to enquire.
Home © The Bible Centre 2015


Please join Chet and the YCP St. Louis team for another Executive Speaker Series online, Wednesday October 21st at 7:00pm CST!
As Chief Technology Officer and President of the Technology Investment Group at Kingdom Capital, Chet provides leadership and guidance while identifying and cultivating strategic investments within Kingdom Capital's technology sector. Chet is also a Navy veteran and spent 8 years as a nuclear engineer on-board fast attack submarines.
Chet and the YCP St. Louis team look forward to having you join us as we discuss Working in Witness for Christ!
Please RSVP above to receive the Zoom information via email.
In a world that can be void of meaning and leave them restless and dissatisfied, YCP brings together young professionals in their 20s and 30s into a community of belonging, support, and encouragement at all stages of the faith journey. YCP empowers and equips them to live their Catholic faith through everyday work, and to perform all work with excellence for the glory of God. For more information visit on our mission and programs visit www.youngcatholicprofessionals.org.


Commentary by Garry L. Jones|
When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. –
1 Corinthians 13:11
Growing up I was required to attend Sunday School and Vacation Bible School. This was a must in my grandmoth- er’s home. I attended church but didn’t know the politics of the church. When my brother and I attended we would gather with our friends and have a good time. My brother was the Assistant Superintendent of the Sunday school and I chilled and did my own thing.
The only thing I got excited about was making sure our class won the banner of offering and the banner of attendance; I was always a competitor. My grandmother always provided money for us to put in church. When I tried to spend the money before church, the neighborhood owner of the store wouldn’t allow me to buy anything because he knew the money I had, was supposed to be used to put in the offering plate – R.I.P. Mr. Fuller.
I used to hear people in the neighborhood talk about how preachers only wanted money to pay for their Cadillac and their homes. During that era I also noticed, when invited to dinner, the preachers normally ate better than the children of the household. They got the biggest part of the chicken and you couldn’t eat unless they ate first. I also heard they slept with all the women in church and some members in the church would dislike each other for one reason or another. These things didn’t come from my grandmother but instead from the people in the community.
After I joined the church I was given those same envelopes that people put their money in. When church commenced the ushers would pass the plate around for tithes and offering. I would put my money in the plate while some people put their money in envelopes. I always wondered why peo- ple put their money in envelopes that was the craziest thing to me. I thought I was a thither when I put my little money in church. I didn’t know any better but soon I would come to understand what tithing and offering was all about.
As I got older I begin to learn more about the church. I learned tithes and offering were needed to pay the church bills, to make us comfortable in the winter and summer, do outreach ministry in the community, help others in need and made provisions to keep the church grounds looking good. The money was also used to pay the preachers their salary.
The scriptures say, “Never tie up the mouth of an ox when it is treading out the grain; let him eat as he goes along and in another place. Those who work deserve their pay.” I thought about Pastor Aaron L. Parker because when he preached you could feel the anointing on him and he also teaches at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. I paid close attention to Malachi 3rd chapter, verse 10… “Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so that there will be food enough in my temple; if you do, I will open up the windows of heaven for you and pour out a blessing so great you won’t have room enough to take it in.”
Noticed it said God would pour out a blessing not the preacher. My attitude was once I pay my tithes I cared less about what happens to the money because I don’t look for man to bless me I look for God to bless me. Don’t get me wrong when I joined another church I was reluctant to pay tithes. It was shocking to find out my pastor didn’t talk about tithing much and the church only took up one offer- ing. I think this made me comfortable and I was able to en- joy service without wondering whether or not the church was going to take up an offering for the building funds, the pastor anniversary, and etc.
Keep in mind, tithing doesn’t mean you are going to get a big paycheck in the mail or someone off the street was going to bless you with a lot of money and some cases that may happen but God will bless you if you are a cheerful thither. If you are reluctant to pay your tithes you may as well keep the money in your pockets because you didn’t tithe willingly; you have to trust God. It took me over 40 years to trust God with my money or his money.
I do think God gives us common sense with tithing. If we are getting ready to be put out of our house and we have a choice to pay your mortgage or rent or be put out, I think I would pay my rent or mortgage. The fact that you want to tithe and can’t tithe is a blessing within itself. God knows the heart. I know this is contradicting what I just said about trusting God to provide a way but beware of the preachers that only speak on prospering you don’t see yourself prospering, you only see them prospering.
The Holiday season is here and money may be short in some households. The children and grandchildren are going to be depending on you to break them off with a little something. The electric bill is normally high during this season. What are you going to do? My suggestion is trust God and pray about your situation because every situation is different.
To learn more about Garry Jones, his work or to book him for your next event visit: garryljones.com


With this in mind, I decided it was time for someone to consider youth pastors who work at small churches or are serving in a bi-vocational or volunteer role. The context you work in is unique, and you face challenges full-time youth pastors will never face. So I thought I would use this post to share with you my story. Currently, I’ve been serving as a full-time student minister for 3 years, but before that, I spent 2 1/2 years serving as a bi-vocational minister. The church I served at only averaged 100 people, and more than half the congregation was over 65 years old. My youth group only had 7 students, on a good day. And, as you can imagine, it was your typical, traditional, small Baptist church with all the committees and “we’ve always done it this way” attitude.
Serving at my little church wasn’t easy. It was my first youth ministry job, so I was full of excitement and possibilities. However, my excitement ended quickly when I realized what I actually got myself into. The church wasn’t growing, nor did it want to grow, and my thoughts on ministry varied greatly from the pastor. In other words, we did not get along. My last year was spent having my pastor nit-pick everything I did. My youth committee chair tried to start her own youth ministry, and it all hit the wall when she told me to “shove it” during a meeting because she didn’t think money that was raised for camp should be used for students who weren’t members of our church. This truly was the dreaded first church that would cause anyone to walk away from ministry.
As I reflect on my first ministry experience, I know there were things I could have done better, but even then, I know the outcome would of been the same. The one thing I wish I had more than anything during that time, was someone who could mentor me and a group of youth pastors I could network with. Since I didn’t have either I felt alone, abandoned, and I was spiritually drained by the time I left the church. Now, things are different. I’ve grown tremendously since then, and I’m serving at a church that I love more than anything. On top of that, my pastor is amazing and he’ll be the standard I will measure all other pastors I will serve under one day.
I write all of this to say: if you work in a small church, or serve in a bi-vocational or volunteer role, you are my hero. I know how you feel and what you’re going through, because I’ve been there before. I understand working at a small church can be soul-draining, but at the same time, you have the ability to minister to students in ways guys working in larger churches could never do. Your church context allows you to disciple students in a personal way and, because of it, you are a hero to the students and parents you serve. You are the unsung heroes of student ministry and I thank you for your continual service to teenagers. My next seven post will focus on you specifically, so here’s a sneak peak at future posts in the series “Part-Time Youth Pastor, Full-Time Hero:”
“The Benefits of Working At A Small Church.”
“The Dirty Truth No One Will Tell You.”
“How To Stay Spiritually Healthy When There’s No Food To Be Found”
“How You Advance The Kingdom, When Your Youth Group Only Has 5 Students.”
“The Small Group You Never Knew You Had.”
“How You Know Its Time To Leave.”
Finally, if you are a full-time youth pastor, you have a responsibility to do everything you can to help out those who are serving in bi-vocational or volunteer positions. You have resources and connections they need so they will be better equipped to serve the students God has given to them. This week, think about what resources you can offer to help out those who work in a small church. Find out who works as a part-time or volunteer youth pastor in your area and take them out to eat, just to encourage them. I’m sure they can use it. And if you work at a small church as a bi-vocational or volunteer youth pastor, please leave a comment on how we can better serve you and encourage you in your ministry.
Latest posts by Josh Fuentes (see all)
- 6 Ways to Have a Great Vacation – May 9, 2013
- Summertime Blues – May 2, 2013
- Part-Time Youth Pastor, Full-Time Hero: How To Stay Spiritually Healthy When There’s No Food Around – April 4, 2013


For decades I’ve been asked about the location of the former church that had been on the west side of North Judson, just north of Hwy 10. Several years ago someone – not local – said that they heard satanic rituals were performed there. Of course I’ve also heard the same thing about the Inn, which was located one block over from the train depot on Lane Street. To my knowledge neither story is true.
As background information on me, my family moved from Chicago to NJ in 1961 and we originally lived just outside of town on Sales Barn Road (hands up anyone who remembers the Sales Barn). I was familiar with only three churches.
A year or two before North Judson’s Centennial we moved into town, on that same west side, but I have to admit that I didn’t recall any church in the area. Which is probably because it didn’t fit into my juvenile ideas of what a church should look like (ie: a tall imposing building like the Lutheran or Catholic).
Years later another move brought my family even closer to the area where the mystery church was supposed to be located. Since reading had expanded my knowledge of what churches could look like I did become aware of a house in the general neighborhood that might have been a church at one time. No stained glass windows or tall steeples, but then the Methodist church didn’t have those either. But there was something about it, mainly the front doors, which just seemed to say, “Church.”
So imagine my surprise when, flipping through the North Judson Bicentennial book, I came across a picture which proved that at one time that building HAD been a church. According to the picture the building, located on the corner of Garfield and Cherry, had at once time been the Pilgrim Holiness Church.
Mystery solved! Except to this day I haven’t met anyone who could tell me anything about the Pilgrim Holiness Church. Internet searches don’t turn up much local information. But I did learn that at one time Harve J. Garbison was assistant pastor and Creed Allen was a founder and/or co-founder. And according to Wikipedia, “Pilgrim Holiness Church or ' International Apostolic Holiness Church '[IAHC] is a religious denomination associated with the holiness movement that split from the Methodist Episcopal Church by Martin Wells Knapp in 1897.” “The organization later became the Pilgrim Holiness Church in 1922 which eventually merged with the Wesleyan Methodists in 1968 to form the Wesleyan Church.”
So if you, or a family member, have any memories about this church please sit down with a tape recorder and start talking. We need to preserve as much local history as possible for when North Judson’s Bicentennial comes around.


O Lord, we entreat you to shower your blessings on us to begin the day afresh and to fill it with activities beneficial to others. Lead us along the path of virtue. Grant us the strength to ward off evil and the wisdom to keep away from the wrong and the sinful. We, thy humble children of God, seek your mercy to tide over crucial situations, always abiding by the laws of thy Divine Power.
O God, Almighty in heaven, we thank you for all the blessings you have showered on us during the day; you have stood by us in all our trials and tribulations. You have granted us the wisdom to distinguish the good from the bad, think and act positively and help those who are in need. We beg of you to bestow on us the knowledge to lead a life of virtue all along the way.


Connections is a ministry that is dedicated to partner with congregations and other faith-based organizations to provide the desired funding for their mission. We specialize in helping churches clarify their vision and then make strategic decisions that will help them secure the necessary money to accomplish their goals.
Connections Stewardship has veteran leaders who can give your church or organization both the personal attention that you want along with the seasoned professionalism that you need.
Connecting With Your Mission
Sharing in your mission is what we do best! Many churches see the obstacles to conducting a Capital Campaign rather than imagining the wonderful blessings that could result from a generous response. Connections is highly skilled and experienced. We can take away the fear and uncertainty of a campaign and efficiently walk you through the process with grace and joy. We have decades of combined experience in over 150 projects and have helped raise over $200 million. There is a connection between money and mission and we will help you make it with spiritual depth and biblical integrity.
Connecting With Your Vision
A Connections-led funding campaign puts your vision into motion! Eventually talk must turn into action. Each congregation has a unique plan for its ministry. Some churches need new facilities to expand ministry or to accommodate new programs. Other congregations need to find "mission freedom" through debt reduction. Some churches have a vision that is held back by inadequate facilities or a lack of staffing. There are more and more communities of faith that have a "wish list" of 5 or 6 projects which could be bundled together into a creative Mission Enhancement campaign. Let Connections help you expand your vision!
Connecting With Your Message
Connections seeks to be your stewardship faith partner! We are led by Senior Partner, Pastor John Cross, a man whose greatest gift is his ability to help people connect their faith and their generosity. Giving is, first of all, a spiritual matter. When the Apostle Paul was seeking funding for mission projects, he explained why the Macedonians, a poor people, were so generous: "And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us." (2 Corinthians 8: 5)
What we do:
✞Resource Assessments (Clarify the Vision and Discover Giving Potential)
✞Capital Campaigns (Fund Building and Renovation Projects)
✞Mission Enhancement Appeals (A Hybrid of Capital and Ministry Projects)
✞Mission Freedom Appeals (Debt Reduction)
✞Annual Giving (Increase your Ongoing Mission Support)
✞Communication Packages (Graphic Design and Video Production)
✞Legacy Gift Development (Planned and Deferred Giving)


This is a webpage design to inform people about the Christian Anime Project. C.A.P. intends to hire authentic Japanese studios to create modern Christian anime.
Other Christian Anime
"Superbook", "Flying House" & "In The Beginning - The Bible Stories" are all Christian animes that were made many years ago.There is an attempted fan make of a Christian anime called "Mejika". They developed a bit of a story board with an english dub but had no animators to make it. C.A.P. will not suffer from this problem as C.A.P. will hire authentic Japanese animators to create the anime. The last time someone worked on Mejika seems to be around 2007...
A more recent fan-made project. You can check out their website - The Girgori Anime to learn more about this project.
My Last Day
The Japanese studio, Studio 4°C animated a short anime for Campus Crusade for Christ. This is exactly the sort of thing that the C.A.P. wants to produce more films like this. You can help Campus Crusade for Christ as they need funding to translate "My Last Day" into other languages. C.A.P. supports this ministry through pray, money and has made a PAL DVD version. Click to download a PAL DVD version of the My Last Day anime with languages - Arabic, Chinese (Cantonese), English, French, Japanese, Korean, Russian and Spanish. Also has subtitles for English, French and Spanish. This DVD is using PAL 4:3 format.
The next project that C.A.P. wants to engage in is an animation based on the book of Jonah. The book of Jonah was chosen because Jesus said, "A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth." (Matthew 12:39-40). This means it will be easy to create a featurette with a gospel message in it based on the book of Jonah (which would be released in the DVD extras when it is made). Also Jonah is a story that flows and can be animated, but it is also only 4 chapters. So it is a short story, which means it shouldn't cost too much to get it animated. John 2:1-11,. Where Jesus turns the water into wine at the wedding in Cana.
the Christian manga "Anthropomorphic Religious Manga Pyuri-tan" 教派擬人化漫画
Current Project Status
Currently copyright permission is being obtained from Bible translators.
Copyright has been given, and C.A.P. is also negotiating with a Japanese studio to animate the
book of Jonah.
John 2:1-11. Negotiations finished - price is around $500 000 for a 10 minute anime of the highest quality. This is well above C.A.P.s current budget, So we have hired a manga artist to make a manga of John 2:1-11 instead. This has been fully paid for and is currently being drawn.... Read the finished manga here Currently copyright permission is being obtained from the Mangaka SONO Copyright permission has been obtained, you can read the english translation of "Anthropomorphic Religious Manga - Pyuri-tan Christmas Special" on our facebook page.
Also trying to get an anime intro made


Here is a downloadable score for ‘Come holy fire’, a song I wrote fairly recently. It was used for the first time at a Christian youth camp I was at last week (more on that later), and seemed to go down well, so I’m making it available for people to use at their home churches. At the moment I hold the copyright and everything, and it’s likely to stay that way until a music publisher comes my way!
It’s a gathering song, speaking of our unity in Christ, so would go well at the beginning of a service. I particularly like the end of the second verse, which says “trusting not in our own strength but in your power, saved by grace and not by what we’ve done”. It helps us recognise how awesome God’s grace is, how he allows us into his presence despite our many failings, and the chorus invites God to “set our hearts ablaze with passion” to do his work.
Come Holy Fire
1. Every walk, every past,
gathered in your name;
fallen hearts, weary souls,
we whom you forgave.
Humbly now we bow before your mighty throne,
and recognise the power of your name.
Come holy fire,
set our hearts ablaze with passion.
Come breath of God,
fan the flames of our desire.
One heart, one mind,
we have gathered here to worship.
Closest friend, humble king,
you are worthy Lord.
2. So we turn from our sin,
drawing close to you;
set aside hopes and dreams,
we will follow you.
Trusting not in our own strength but in your power,
saved by grace and not by what we’ve done.
3. Now to you we will sing
of your matchless grace.
Now our souls are set free
to worship in this place.
Earth and heaven open wide to praise your name,
reconciled, united in your blood.
Copyright © Matthew Dawkins 2009.
“Come holy fire” by Matthew Dawkins is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 2.0 UK: England & Wales License.
It’s my prayer that this song is useful. If you like the song, please let me know and spread the word – it’s not currently associated with a publisher, so you can use it completely free of charge (for now at least).


Staff from ExxonMobil PNG’s Hides Gas Conditioning Plant (HGCP) volunteered their time to support youth from the Komo area in their community beautification and cleanup initiative.
With the theme 'Yumi Klinim Komo' (Let’s Clean Komo), the cleanup involved over 45 youths from three different church organisations including; the Komo Catholic Church, Evangelical Church of PNG and the Seventh Day Adventist Church.
The ExxonMobil PNG HGCP staff joined the youths in this first of its kind cleanup initiative carried out in the Komo area. The cleanup initiative encouraged youths from different denominations to work together, to pick-up rubbish and plant flowers around the Komo Government Station.
HGCP Field Operations Manager, Kim Hahn, said it was really good to see young people in the area demonstrate leadership and initiate such projects for the benefit of everyone.
“When they do this they are effectively contributing to community development, including peace building and social cohesion. It also provides an opportunity for the younger members within our community to appreciate and protect the environment,” Ms. Hahn said.
Pastor Lini Alo from Evangelical Church of PNG said “the youth are the future leaders and advocates for change over the long term. Supporting their initiatives shows that we have confidence in them as leaders of tomorrow and this in turn motivates them to want to make a difference in their community.”
In support of their efforts, ExxonMobil PNG HGCP staff donated garden forks, spades, a wheelbarrow, safety gloves and glasses to encourage and maintain the ongoing beautification and cleanup activities in Komo community.
ExxonMobil PNG HGCP staff has recently donated a set of gardening tools to the youth at Juni to support clean-up activities in their community, whilst another clean-up program similar to the clean- up initiative in Komo was also held for Inu.


Abortion Pill Reversal Success Stories
Fortunately, there is an effective process for reversing the abortion pill, called ABORTION PILL REVERSAL. Many women have already changed their minds about a MEDICATION ABORTION. It worked for them and it can work for you too!
July 20th 2015
“As we journeyed together through the first trimester, at each visit I saw a transformation in Rhonda, Gary, and Rhonda’s mother. I could see a beautiful love, joy, and peace developing within them and among them. They had recommitted themselves to their faith and were now trusting that God would guide them every step of the way. By the end of the first trimester, I referred Rhonda to an obstetrician. Rhonda feels blessed to have been given a second chance; a second chance she feels was by the grace of God.When I think of Rhonda and Gary, I think that they are, on one hand, extraordinary, but, on the other hand, ordinary like you and me. They initially acted out of fear, but through their near-death experience, they learned the power of trust, faith, purpose, and love”


If you’re looking for an exciting and engaging Introduction to the Most Famous Church in Barcelona, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we’re going to review the famous church in barcelona name – from its history and architecture to its Sunday worship and what people say about it.
The spanish church is one of the oldest churches in Europe, and it’s also one of the cool churches in Spain. It’s why some people say that it’s the best place to go on a religious holiday and the best place to go on a Sunday morning.
10, Santa Anna Church
|Name||Santa Anna Church|
|Address||Carrer de Santa Anna, 29, 08002 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 933 01 35 76|
We are one of the most famous church in Barcelona. It was built in the 19th century and had fantastic architecture. And let me tell you, that is not the entire architecture. The church has a basilica, an industrial area, a plaza, and museums. There is something different in every corner of it. We have a lot of events like processions and concerts every year, so it is a fascinating place to visit every year.
Spanish church Santa Anna is a church and parish in the “Antiguo Barrio de las Letras” (Old Quarter of the Letters) of the Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona. It was founded in 1839 by the architect Joan Martorell and is located on Montcada Street, at the corner of Bailen Street, next to the “Plaza del Born”. Its design is a synthesis of French and Italian Classicism. Donations from various personalities financed its construction.
RelatedRead More: Famous Church in Spain
Santa Anna Church is a sizeable neo-gothic church in Barcelona designed by architect Francesc Berenguer and built-in 1897. It was declared a historical monument in 1912 and is located on the lower end of Las Ramblas. With up to 40,000 people visiting the church annually, it is considered one of the most visited places in Barcelona. It is also a popular attraction for weddings, baptisms, and photography lovers.
Santa Anna Church was inaugurated in 1844, and it is one of the most famous spain church. The main façade is made of brick, and it has three towers, white, with a cross on top. It has a main altarpiece which is the work of Rafael Guastavino, a Spanish sculptor. The church was designed by the Catalan architect Josep Oriol Mestres I Rovira. Santa Anna Church contains an essential collection of paintings, but it’s.
09, Church of Saint Philip Neri
|Name||Església de Sant Felip Neri|
|Address||5 Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, Barcelona 08002, Spain|
|Phone Number||+34 933 173 116|
What is the most famous church in Barcelona? We are here to answer that very question through the beauty of Barcelona. We want to make your love for Barcelona stronger than ever. You can enjoy the sight of the beautiful architecture, feel thrilled by the delightful weather, and be mesmerized by the sparkling lights of fine dining. So visit us today and bask in the glory of our city!
The Spain Church of Saint Philip Neri is an essential cultural and religious landmark that defines the center of Barcelona. The church was built in a classical style but with a modern touch, and today it has to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
RelatedRead More: The Most Beautiful Mosque in The World
The interior is a masterpiece, including some beautiful stained glass and an impressive pair of bronze doors. However, even though the church is magnificent, it can also be visited as some exciting pieces are inside, such as an old organ and an old bell tower.
We are doing a significant renovation at the spanish church. We will be open to worship on Sundays and Wednesdays, regular week hours. Most of our ministries will be held in the church, so we ask you to please respect the space and not leave holy articles outside or inside during our renovation. I appreciate your understanding.
08, Santa Maria Del Pi
|Name||Basílica de Santa Maria del Pi|
|Address||Plaça del Pi, 7, 08002 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Gothic architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 933 18 47 43|
Are you looking for a What is the famous church in Barcelona Spain to celebrate Christmas? Look no further than Santa Maria del Pi, the most crucial church in Barcelona. The church is also one of the most beautiful and historic churches in Europe.
Based on their online store, you will be able to purchase various items ranging from religious jewellery, wine bottles, and even Saint Joseph statues with your order. You can also get the Santa Maria del Pi soundtrack of your choice.
The church is located at Ciutadella Park, a large public park in the center of Barcelona, Spain. Lluís Domenech designed the church I Montaner in 1873–1874. The church’s central dome has a diameter of 26 m and a height of 49 m and was constructed from iron and bronze sheeting. The whole structure of the cathedral is built up of four piers. It is one of the most visited spain church in Barcelona.
RelatedRead More: The Biggest Mosque in The World
With an outstanding Gothic style, Santa Maria del Pi is one of Barcelona’s most charming and beautifully decorated churches. It was built on a hill overlooking the Eixample district, and it is considered one of the outstanding examples of Catalan Gothic architecture spanish church.
Santa Maria del Pi is the oldest church in Barcelona. Spain church has an incredible history, starting when Ferdinand III ordered architect Francesc Berenguer to construct a hospital memory of his wife, Maria de Luna. However, the current building was not built until 1723 by a different architect.
07, Santa Maria de Montserrat
|Name||Abbey of Montserrat|
|Address||08199 Montserrat, Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Romanesque architecture, Gothic architecture, Renaissance architecture, Eclecticism in architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 938 77 77 77|
The cathedral of Santa Maria de Montserrat was constructed by the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudís. The building is one of the most famous monuments in Barcelona and one of Catalonia’s most popular tourist attractions.
This cathedral spanish church is built in Catalan Gothic style, which means using elements from Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance, and has two spires. In addition to its iconic architecture is known for its beautiful interior, which has varietal statues considered some of the finest.
This icon of the city stands up to the highest standards. The interior is well stained in a beautiful style with Jesus and Mary on the main altarpieces.
This year, Barcelona will celebrate its 700th anniversary. Montserrat’s church will be transformed into a wealthy, atmospheric, and must-see site in the spirit of this unique historical event. The world-renowned designer and fashion brand Marni has been commissioned to create a unique, one-off collection for the occasion. In addition, an exclusive art exhibition, “Museu de la Moda” (Museum of Fashion), will be hosted in the church’s nave and base.
RelatedRead More: Oldest Church in The World
Santa Maria de Montserrat is one of the most famous church in Barcelona. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and was built between 1163 and 1175 on a site occupied since the Visigothic era. The chosen area was in honor of the Mother of God, who was revered to have appeared there. The church’s construction started after a visit by Pope Alexander III in 1163.
The main features of Santa Maria de Montserrat are its beautiful architecture and its stained glass windows. In the courtyard, there are many statues, including a statue of a small boy who looks like he is answering people’s prayers. The church also has three chapels with unique artwork, murals and mosaics. It also has an exciting history, as it was built in the 11th century on a site where the hermit St. Mary was born.
06, Cathedral of Barcelona
|Name||Cathedral of Barcelona|
|Address||Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Gothic architecture, Gothic Revival architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 933 15 15 54|
An outstanding design, the Cathedral of Barcelona is one of the most famous churches of Spain. This is an actual work of modern architecture in a very religious context. The idea was to create a church that was open to the sky, inspired by the significant English spanish church and modernist churches around the world. The construction was started in 1969 by architects Lluís Domènech I Montaner and Josep Lluís Sert, who built the basilica with only one architect.
The cathedral of Barcelona is a Catholic church located in Barcelona, Catalonia, and is one of the most famous churches in the world. The cathedral’s main attraction is its gothic architecture, which was designed by Catalan architect Guinovart between 1184 and 1222. It has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1983.
The Cathedral of Barcelona is one of the most famous church in Barcelona, Spain. This neo-gothic church is located in the downtown district of Barcelona, a few minutes from La Rambla and a few steps away from La Monumental de Catalunya (Fútbol). The imposing Gothic-style building is considered an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of faith, strength and dignity because the cathedral is one of the most critical sites in Barcelona.
The Cathedral of Barcelona is a perfect cool churches example of how architecture can impact the lives of those who come in contact with it. The unique location, hand-crafted details and incredible interior make this one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona. Located at La Rambla, the spain church is frequented by tourists and locals alike, so book your tour to go inside! Cathedral of Barcelona.
05, La Sagrada Familia
|Name||La Sagrada Familia|
|Address||C/ de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Modernisme, Art Nouveau Architecture, Gothic Revival architecture, Noucentisme, Spanish Gothic architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 932 08 04 14|
The marvel of the ‘La Sagrada Familia’, a church dedicated to the Holy Family, is one of the most visited monuments of the city of Barcelona. The church is located in the modernist architectural style and is considered one of the most important works by Antoni Gaudí. The spanish church was built between 1882 and 1914, and it took more than 25 years to finish. Of course, there are many churches in Barcelona that you can visit, but La Sagrada Familia might be one.
La Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous places in Barcelona. It was designed by Antoni Gaudi and opened in 1882. It is a stunning building full of light, colour and mystery. The work of one of the best architects in the world presents an exceptional example of modern architecture. When you enter the building, you will be welcomed by works of art by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and Salvador Dali.
Your getaway to the city of lights doesn’t have to be from the tour buses or the hotel lobby. Instead, wake up early to admire the breathtaking architecture of La Sagrada Familia. This is a must-see for anyone who appreciates architecture of world-class standards and has a keen eye for detail. As you climb the steps, you will be awestruck at the modern design of this stunning tower that King Alfonso XIII of Spain commissioned.
Cool churches La Sagrada Familia is a famous church in Barcelona, Spain. Antoni Gaudí designs this church. The church is made with ceramic materials and stone. It is renowned for its craftsmanship and beautiful architecture.
The basilica was built by Antoni Gaudí, a Catalan architect and sculptor is tucked away inside a once beautiful neighbourhood called La Villa. Although it is still under construction, you can already visit the church and marvel at its sheer beauty. At one point, this building was an awe-inspiring sight, but with construction ongoing, its popularity keeps growing each year.
One of the most famous World tourist attractions is La Sagrada Familia Barcelona. La Sagrada Familia is a Roman Catholic basilica and memorial to the Passion of Christ located in the El Raval district of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. It is also known as The Holy Family.
04, Monasterio de Pedralbes
|Name||Monasterio de Pedralbes|
|Address||Baixada del Monestir, 9, 08034 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Gothic architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 932 56 34 34|
Situated 24 metres from the sea, Monasterio de Pedralbes is an ancient church that has been part of the city’s heritage since 878. Built on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this church is dedicated to St. Pere de Rodez, founder of the Order of Carmelites and patron saint of Barcelona. This magnificent Gothic building is one of Spain’s most beautifully decorated coastal churches. Visitors are welcome seven days a week (from 8 am to 5 pm).
Spanish church Monasterio de Pedralbes, also known as Santa Maria Del Mar, is one of the world’s most famous churches. This is one of the many buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí, a renowned architect and the son of the founder of modernism art.
The church is located in Barcelona, and under its steep roof, there is a small museum filled with works by Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí and other great artists. This unique place has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Cool churches Monasterio de Pedralbes is a Catalan Gothic-style basilica, originally built between 1160 and 1191 as a chapel for the Knights Templar in La Ribera. Close to the city of Barcelona today is the best-known example of Catalan Gothic architecture.
Monasterio de Pedralbes was established on the night of the year 800 and for centuries it has been a key player in Barcelona, with influential figures such as Joan Fuster, Antoni Gaudí, Salvador Dalí, Andrés Soler and Ramón Sunyer. The building imitates an oriental mosque; its three naves are covered in Moorish decoration with lovely tiled ceilings and a dome made of Italian glass.
03, Santa Maria del Mar
|Name||Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar|
|Address||Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Gothic architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 933 10 23 90|
Situated on the southern end of the Old City, this spectacular Gothic church is one of the most beautiful in Barcelona. Founded by King James I in 1212, this imposing structure is rich in art, culture and history. The dazzling facade is embellished with richly detailed sculptures and frescos created by some of Europe’s most famous artists like Michelangelo and Cossio. With sweeping views of Barcelona’s old city, this majestic church is a must-visit for all tourists.
Santa Maria del Mar is one of the most famous church in Barcelona. The church was erected between 1681 and 1710 and consecrated by the bishop of Barcelona. It is located on La Rambla, one of the city’s most important streets and one of the most beautiful places in Barcelona. On July 18, 1681, the architect Agustín de Bethencourt y Guadarrama allowed building a church in this place.
We are always looking for ways to improve our services and offer the best possible services to our customers. What better way to do so than by staying up to date with all the latest news from the world of fashion.
That’s why we have decided to provide you with an exclusive sneak preview of our upcoming collections. This is an opportunity for you to be one of the first people in Barcelona who will be able to shop Santa Maria del Mar’s collections and get a glimpse into what the designer has planned.
Cool churches Santa Maria del Mar is one of the most famous spain church, with a basilica, which is currently a national monument. The monument was designed by Antoni Gaudí, who was once also the architect responsible for Parc Güell.
02, Basilica of the Immaculate conception
|Name||Basilica of the Immaculate Conception|
|Address||Basilica in Barcelona, Spain|
|Phone Number||+34 934576552|
The Basilica of the Immaculate conception was built in 793. Since then, it has been the site of several important events, such as the coronation of King Alfonso III, the marriage of Alfonso II with a Byzantine princess, as well as a significant occurrence in 1212: the coronation of Pedro I, son of Ferdinand III and Eleanor of England. The interior is adorned with beautiful paintings and sculptures.
Inspiration has always been a part of our lives. Now you can channel your inner artist and uniquely channel your creativity by learning how to paint at the Basilica of the Immaculate conception in Barcelona, Spain. The fascinating part about it is that it’s not just for artists but for everyone. Classes are provided for all levels of experience if you want to have a memorable time with your family and friends and spend some time in Barcelona’s most beautiful church.
This church is more than a religious building. It is home to a stunning history and architecture that tells its own story and a collection from the middle ages to the present day. Its many treasures are a testimony of a record that is worth remembering, and they are at your disposal. Basilica of the Immaculate conception offers a diverse range of experiences. It is the most visited monument in Barcelona and one of its most fascinating.
Cool churches Founded in 1480, it is the oldest church in Barcelona. The church has been regarded as a national monument since 1936. In addition, the basilica of the Immaculate has been declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is famous for its sculpture.
01, Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
|Name||Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus|
|Address||Ctra. de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo, 111, 08035 Barcelona, Spain|
|Architectural styles||Gothic Revival architecture|
|Phone Number||+34 934 17 56 86|
Sunday Mass is so much more than just a routine religious ceremony. It’s a time to honour one’s faith, share the joy and help many with their insecurities. As well as being the centre for worship for over 100 years, the church is also known for its beautiful architecture, which has been considered one of the city’s finest examples of modernisme. As a result, the church is one of the first places to become crowded with visitors on Sunday mornings as they come to pay their respects.
One of the most famous church in Barcelona, the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Many interiors and exteriors will make you amazed, including the gothic church, the cloister garden, and the altar. Worth seeing.
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is one of the most famous spanish church in Barcelona. It was built on the site of a former hospital and was recognised as a Cultural Asset of National Interest in 1987. The existing building dates from 1885, with additions made in 1919 to 1960.
It is considered one of the most important examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe. It is also notable for its stained glass windows, which are among the oldest pieces of Gothic stained glass preserved in Barcelona.
There is always room for more in a city of beauty, history, and art. Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a Roman Catholic church in Barcelona that serves as a parish church for the Cathedral neighbourhood. As the former home of the Basilica of the Holy Family cool churches, Barcelona’s most significant church has stood out since it opened in 1814 and played an essential role in the city’s religious culture and history. In addition to being used as a parish church, Sacred Heart of Jesus is also home.
The church was initially built in the XIIth century and was raised another floor in the XVIth century by architect Pere Serra. The temple is made of marble, dark green and light orange. It has four entrances leading to the abbey, where you can see two little doors. The second one leads to a room full of statues and paintings from medieval times, called “The Dressing Room”. The third arch leads to The Sacristy room, and the fourth arch leads.
In conclusion, the Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous church in Barcelona. It was built with red brick, but now it has a mosaic facade. The cool churches construction began in 1882, and will not be completed until at least 2026.
This article is about the Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona, which was built with red brick but now has a mosaic facade. The construction of the church began in 1882 and is not expected to be completed until at least 2024.


John 1:14 (ESV) — 14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
The world today is of the opinion that the virgin birth is a fairy tail. The world has determined that the Bible is just an early account of mythology based upon ignorant beliefs. After all, science has discredited and disproved most of the myths portrayed in the Scripture. Everyone knows that evolution is the truth and there really isn’t a creator. How can you believe the Genesis account? No rational human being could possibly believe such a tale.
The same is true when it comes to the virgin birth of Christ. John stated that the Word was God in John 1:1 then in verse 14 this very same word became flesh. He became human. Not only did He become human, but He also was miraculously conceived.
Luke 1:34–35 (ESV) — 34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I am a virgin?” 35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God.
We have to ask why it is important that Christ does not have a human father. The answer is not that complicated. If Christ had a human father then He would have been in Adam when Adam sinned. If that is the case then He would have been in possession of a sin nature instead of a nature that did not have a predisposition to sin. Simply put Christ would have not been able to live a sinless life had He had a human father. If Christ had sinned then He could not have provided an acceptable offering for the sins of the world. There would be no salvation possible for mankind.
The virgin birth is an essential truth of Scripture. If you can show that Christ has a human father, then there is no truth that He is God and there is no truth in Scripture. Our faith would be in vain with no hope for the future. It is no wonder then that Satan attacks this truth of Scripture as much as he attacks the creation account of Genesis.
The fact that God became flesh means that He has an eternal body. He did not become man for His time on earth and then gave up the body to become God again. He will eternally be a human being. Christ became a total human being.
Luke tells us that He was a baby and grew like any human.
Luke 2:40 (ESV) — 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.
He also tells us that:
Luke 2:52 (ESV) — 52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.
He also had to be obedient to His parents. To do otherwise would be sin.
Luke 2:51 (ESV) — 51 And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.
Jesus experience all the human emotions that we feel. He wept, was tired, hungry and thirsty. In every way He was human, yet without sin. He showed anger and sorrow and experienced everything you or I have experienced. He knows what it is like to be human and is perfectly qualified to understand us as no other being can.
The fact that Christ is fully human does not mean that He is any less God. We have already shown that the preincarnate Christ is truly God and the incarnation does not change that fact. We will look and how it is possible for these two natures to coexist next post.


You know – Sometimes we must “break” a little so we can get a look inside ourselves to see what AMAZING POWERHOUSES WE WERE MEANT TO BE! Sometimes mistakes must be made so that wisdom can be gained! Sometimes our background/history leaves us feeling fragile or weak and (for our greatest happiness) we must tackle those difficulties - after all, we were created with mighty powers of renewal (see previous blog post, “Barriers, Hindrances, and Other Difficulties…"). We – each of us - were provided with the ultimate healing and renewing power of our Savior’s atoning sacrifice. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said in a recent General Conference address:
“In striving for some peace and understanding in these difficult matters, it is crucial to remember that we are living—and chose to live—in a fallen world where for divine purposes our pursuit of godliness will be tested and tried again and again. Of greatest assurance in God’s plan is that a Savior was promised, a Redeemer, who through our faith in Him would lift us triumphantly over those tests and trials, even though the cost to do so would be unfathomable for both the Father who sent Him and the Son who came. It is only an appreciation of this divine love that will make our own lesser suffering first bearable, then understandable, and finally redemptive.” https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/like-a-broken-vessel?lang=eng
I’ll share thoughts a little later in this post on the trials we face that are not of our own making. But first I would like to write a little about weaknesses and imperfections – and I’d like to say that, more and more, we are hearing the concept of imperfection being referred to as “incompleteness” (perfection = complete; e.g., see https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/wanted-hands-and-hearts-to-hasten-the-work?lang=eng).
We are all very likely painfully aware of our weaknesses and imperfections. And according to Kari Archibald, professor of Recreation Management at BYU-Idaho, this is actually the first step in spiritual renewal! She said, “A resilient person recognizes [her/his] weakness.” And she expanded along these lines by saying that we will make progress if we have “humility and awareness of aspects of our lives that need some work.” Heavenly Father strengthens us through this awareness of our weaknesses:
“And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.” (Ether 12:27)
So . . . . Stretch this thought a little further and recognize that our aim is to VIEW OBSTACLES AS OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH.
The trials of this life will ultimately lead to renewal, to greater resilience, to a closer relationship with our Savior, and indeed to joy if we patiently trust in God’s plan and discover how to use weaknesses and adversity to grow stronger.
As we grow, let’s you and I keep these things in mind:
*Celebrate your efforts!
*Yes, weaknesses can be painful to acknowledge and to work through, but the alternative option is to stay in our comfort zone – and while a comfort zone is a beautiful place, nothing ever grows there!
*Love yourself now, even in your incomplete state. Believe in yourself and who you have been empowered to become. Heavenly Father does.
A Way to Deal with Life's Challenges
In an excellent article entitled “Raising Resilient Children,” https://www.lds.org/ensign/2013/03/raising-resilient-children?lang=eng, Lyle J Burrup noted: “As children become resilient, they understand and accept these two facts. They see life as challenging and ever changing, but they believe they can cope with those challenges and changes. They view mistakes and weaknesses as opportunities to learn, and they accept that losing may precede winning.
Further he stated, “As children develop resilience, they believe they can influence and even control outcomes in their lives through effort, imagination, knowledge, and skill. With this attitude, they focus on what they do rather than on what is outside their control.” This is a great approach for all of us!
Difficulties Not of Our Making
Yet some things are outside our control. Which brings us to another point: What about those who have been dealt very difficult lives? Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First Presidency addressed this in a General Conference talk as he said, “…our lives may seem to be touched by, or even wrapped in, darkness. Sometimes the night that surrounds us will appear oppressive, disheartening, and frightening. My heart grieves for the many sorrows some of you face, for the painful loneliness and wearisome fears you may be experiencing. Nevertheless, I bear witness that our living hope is in Christ Jesus! He is the true, pure, and powerful entrance to divine enlightenment.
"I testify that with Christ, darkness cannot succeed. Darkness will not gain victory over the light of Christ.
I invite each of you to open your heart to Him. Seek Him through study and prayer. As you walk toward the hope of God’s light, you will discover the compassion, love, and goodness of a loving Heavenly Father, “in [whom there] is no darkness at all.” (https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/04/the-hope-of-gods-light?lang=eng)
Coming up – ideas for next steps in spiritual renewal . . .


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Cross, the principal symbol of the Christian religion, recalling the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the faith of Christians. In ceremonial usage, making a sign of the cross may be, according to the context, an act of profession of faith, a prayer, a dedication, or a benediction.
There are four basic types of iconographic representations of the cross: the crux quadrata, or Greek cross, with four equal arms; the crux immissa, or Latin cross, whose base stem is longer than the other three arms; the crux commissa, in the form of the Greek letter tau, sometimes called St. Anthony’s cross; and crux decussata, named from the Roman decussis, or symbol of the numeral 10, also known as St. Andrew’s cross. Tradition favours the crux immissa as that on which Christ died, but some believe that it was a crux commissa. The many variations and ornamentations of processional, altar, and heraldic crosses, of carved and painted crosses in churches, graveyards, and elsewhere, are developments of these four types.
Cross forms were used as symbols, religious or otherwise, long before the Christian Era, but it is not always clear whether they were simply marks of identification or possession or were significant for belief and worship. Two pre-Christian cross forms have had some vogue in Christian usage. The ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic symbol of life—the ankh, a tau cross surmounted by a loop and known as crux ansata—was adopted and extensively used on Coptic Christian monuments. The swastika, called crux gammata, composed of four Greek capitals of the letter gamma, is marked on many early Christian tombs as a veiled symbol of the cross.
Before the time of the emperor Constantine in the 4th century, Christians were extremely reticent about portraying the cross because too open a display of it might expose them to ridicule or danger. After Constantine converted to Christianity, he abolished crucifixion as a death penalty and promoted, as symbols of the Christian faith, both the cross and the chi-rho monogram of the name of Christ. The symbols became immensely popular in Christian art and funerary monuments from c. 350.
For several centuries after Constantine, Christian devotion to the cross centred on the victory of Christ over the powers of evil and death, and realistic portrayal of his suffering was avoided. The earliest crucifixes (crosses containing a representation of Christ) depict Christ alive, with eyes open and arms extended, his Godhead manifest, even though he is pierced and dead in his manhood. By the 9th century, however, artists began to stress the realistic aspects of Christ’s suffering and death. Subsequently, Western portrayals of the Crucifixion, whether painted or carved, exhibited an increasing finesse in the suggestion of pain and agony. Romanesque crucifixes often show a royal crown upon Christ’s head, but later Gothic types replaced it with a crown of thorns. In the 20th century a new emphasis emerged in Roman Catholicism, especially for crucifixes in liturgical settings. Christ on the cross is crowned and vested as a king and priest, and the marks of his suffering are much less prominent.
After the 16th-century Protestant Reformation, the Lutherans generally retained the ornamental and ceremonial use of the cross. The Reformed churches, however, resisted such use of the cross until the 20th century, when ornamental crosses on church buildings and on communion tables began to appear. The Church of England retained the ceremonial signing with the cross in the rite of Baptism. Since the mid-19th century, Anglican churches have witnessed a revival of the use of the cross. The crucifix, however, is almost entirely confined to private devotional use.


On my playlist this week has been a cover of Rachel Platten’s global hit “Fight Song” by The Piano Guys. Not only is it an instrument version with piano and cello, it also includes a Scottish bagpipe and drum band, and is filmed on location at the stunning Eilean Donan castle.
(Before listening, please pause The Music for Dreaming in the sidebar >>)
While I appreciate the original song because of the story behind it–a singer/songwriter’s struggle to keep committed to her craft no matter what the response, The Piano Guy’s version is a mash-up of the song with Amazing Grace.
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already to come.
Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far
and grace will lead me home.
Lines from the hymn opens the video along with a quiet introduction of the hymn melody. Later, the hymn returns in a poignant reprise, and finally the two melodies are seamlessly woven together for the finale.
Platten’s lyrics, while not sung, are expressed by the fierceness and determination of the Scottish bagpipers and drummers, as well as the beautiful, passionate playing of piano and cello (Steven Sharp Nelson’s joy when playing is delightful to watch):
This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I’m alright song
My power’s turned on
Starting right now I’ll be strong
I’ll play my fight song
And I don’t really care if nobody else believes
‘Cause I’ve still got a lot of fight left in me
But with Amazing Grace gently offering a counterpoint to Platten’s melody, the song is grounded in an everlasting source of strength. The hymn anchors the song brilliantly in the grace and power of God and turns the words into a declaration of perseverance in the face of trials.
Cup of tea and book in hand on a snowy Iowa morning, I’m celebrating the first deeply quiet day after months filled with moving and teaching and finishing the dissertation. The draft has been given to the committee, and in a week, I will be flying to Boston to defend it. While I’m thankful to have the draft behind me, I’m holding onto the comfort and hope of this quote:
‘What a strength and spring of life, what hope and trust, what glad, unresting energy, is in this one thought: to serve Him who is “my Lord,” ever near me, ever looking on; seeing my intentions before He beholds my failures; knowing my desires before He sees my faults; cheering me to endeavor greater things, and yet accepting the least; inviting my poor service, and yet, above all, content with my poorer love.
Let us try to realize this, whatsoever, wheresoever we be. The humblest and the simplest, the weakest and the most encumbered, may love Him not less than the busiest and strongest, the most gifted and laborious. If our heart be clear before Him; if He be to us our chief and sovereign choice, dear above all, and beyond all desired; then all else matters little. That which concerneth us He will perfect in stillness and in power.’
— Howard Edward Manning – (1808 – 1892), English cardinal, Archbishop of Westminster
After monks copied texts in those days before press or xerox, they would take left over pieces of vellum, copy down quotes from scripture or other texts on which they wanted to meditate personally. These scraps were often bound together into a florilegium, Latin from flos (flowers), legere (to gather), creating a bouquet of literary flowers.
Each Friday, I’m going to offer a digital florilegium of a quote or three from books I’m reading, or a longer review. These texts could be from scripture, 19th century devotionals, contemporary and historical authors, dissertation reading on prayer and education, music, movies, or just some random-quote-goodness! My dear friend, author, and lover of children’s books, Kimberlee Conway Ireton, will also be doing the florilegium each Friday. She writes:
This week, I picked up The Circle of Mysteries by Christin Lore Weber, getting lost again in the beauty of her poetic prose. This extended excerpt is a meditation on Mary and Joseph finding Jesus in the temple.
Our boy is gone. I looked in every tent, asked every child, pleaded with our kin. Old Phanuel was bedding down the beasts and told me not to fret. Jesus is a boy, he laughed, and boys will do what boys will do. I wept, hiding beyond my veil. He could be dead. What about the bandits of the hills? He could be captured, enslaved, like Joseph of the tale we tell on winter nights circled round the fire. He would not have run away. Not my child.
I have lost a lot of things. The first veil made by my mother’s mother when she was a girl. It was rough spun stuff and woven crooked just a bit. I left it in the sycamore outside the village where I played when I was young. My mother wept and sent me after it, but it was gone. A string of lapis beads from Joseph when we were betrothed. I wore them like a promise everywhere and always. It was in Egypt they were lost, somewhere along the road where we spent a night without a moon. I’ve lost much simpler things: my favorite needle made of bone, the clasp that Joseph carved to hold my cloak in place when it was cold and I am drawing water from the well, a pale blue cup, a clear carnelian stone. Tonight my hands hunger to touch these things. I would lay my head on the rough weave of my grandmother’s veil and again and again, through my tears, whisper the name of my child.
Tonight we can do nothing. We listen to the wind. We wait. Joseph paces past the fire. While I watch he stops; he turns his gaze to the invisible hills and his body bends against the fire’s light, like that of some abandoned God whose image stands broken where once the young men danced. He looks to be the ruin of a man. After this night he will never not be old.
I will not sleep. The nightbird calls; a desert lion prowls the outer circle of the camp. The watchman listens for a child’s cry, but not as I listen. I have schooled my heart to Jesus’ every breath so that for thirteen years I have rested only in his breathing. His dreams awaken me so I am kneeling by his mat the moment that he starts from sleep and calls my name. How can he be lost? I would have felt him go. Such absence would have split my soul. I cannot sleep tonight; I will sit facing East listening for the breathing of my child. Wherever he may be I will surround him like a lullaby and he will sleep in peace.
When I lost the lapis beads we retraced our steps to where I last remembered wearing them. Each round pebble seemed a clue. Beads scatter from a broken cord. I searched in clumps of grass and broke my fingernails digging in the sand one place I thought I saw a glint of blue. We walked, zig-zagging back along the road, our eyes sweeping every inch of ground. If I could have found just one blue bead I would have treasured it like the midnight sky for all my life. As the sickle of the moon fell beneath the twilight we returned to where we began. Joseph looked at me as if to say, “The beads are gone but you will wear my promise always as earth wears the lapis sky.”
At dawn our kin spiraled outward from the camp calling Jesus’ name. Rebecca thought she heard him whimper from behind some rocks. She cried, “He’s here!” and we followed her, scrambling up a stone outcropping toward the sound. It was but a lamb caught in a bramble. Young Asher saw a speck of red appear and disappear across the plains and thought it must be Jesus’s coat. We found just a tattered blanket blown here and there by desert winds. I lost him more that twenty times today. Whenever I close my eyes tonight to rest from hope and fear I see him in Jerusalem.
Jerusalem’s towers and sprawling streets lie just below. It is the third day. I want to run to the temple. I want to cry his name. I know that he is here. He would be sheltered by the temple like a womb. But my heart is tight with unwept tears. If he is in the temple could God have wished it so? When Sarah lost her only son because his father heard the voice of God, she also must have wondered and wept. How she must have run across the burning sand to meet him when he stumbled down the mountain with old Abraham blinded by fire. That night she must have arisen from her sleep a hundred times to look at Isaac and she must have asked the darkness, “Why are mothers not consulted in these things?”
I saw him first as any mother might, simply safe. He looked at us and smiled as if we’d never been apart. “We’ve sought you, sorrowing,” said Joseph and his voice was weighted with the desert nights and millennia of desert sand. I saw my son. I had not seen him quite this way before. “Why did your seek me?” His inquiry was innocent and wise. He had expected us to know. I saw our future in him then, the truth of all our lives. We all live in one another’s love. No one can be lost. I turned within, listened to the voice of my heart and he was there as he had always been.
He came with us. I had looked into the eyes of my son and seen God. Now he came along like any other little boy.
All that was years ago. Our son returned to Nazareth to learn wisdom from simple things of earth. Joseph taught him how to work with wood, respect the natural grain, rub it with the wax of bees until it glowed. With our cousin, Nathaniel, Jesus learned the art of growing grain to yield a hundredfold of fruit. He reaped at harvest-time and brought home riches from the earth from which we made delicious bread. He carried the basket for me when we observed the Feast of Loaves, sharing our riches of food with those more needy than ourselves. We go to synagogue and he learns the wisdom of the law. He also listens to the birds and asks me, “Where is the beginning of the wind?”
His eyes are lapis, deeper than the night and clear. All my life when silence wraps me like a shawl I will close my eyes and wonder at these things. I will gather bright blue beads wherever they are scattered in my heart and join them on a cord. What I have sought is in my heart. I wear it like a promise.
Glory in the Mother’s heart. Glory where our life begins and to the home from which we walk to seek our names. Glory that our lives are scattered beads around the world. Glory to the One in whom nothing is lost.
In honor of hearing Eugene Peterson speak at Seattle Pacific University Thursday evening, today’s florilegium quote is from his book, The Contemplative Pastor:
What does it mean to be a pastor? If no one asked me to do anything, what would I do?…
I can be a pastor who prays. I want to cultivate my relationship with God. I want all life to be intimate–sometimes consciously, sometime unconsciously–with the God who made, directs, and loves me. And I want to waken others to the nature and centrality of prayer. I want to be a person in this community to whom others can come without hesitation, without wonder if it is appropriate, to get direction in prayer and praying. I want to do the original work of being in deepening conversation with the God who reveals himself to me and addresses me by name. I don’t want to dispense mimeographed (!) handouts that describe God’s business; I want to witness out of my own experience. I don’t want to live as a parasite on the first-hand spiritual life of others, but to be personally involved with all my senses, tasting and seeing that the Lord is good.
I know it takes time to develop a life of prayer; set-aside, disciplined, deliberate time. It isn’t accomplished on the run, nor by offering prayers from a pulpit or at a hospital bedside. I know I can’t be busy and pray at the same time. I can be active and pray; I can work and pray; but I cannot be busy and pray. I cannot be inwardly rushed, distracted or dispersed. In order to pray I have to be paying more attention to God than to what people are saying to me; to God than to my clamoring ego. Usually, for that to happen there must be a deliberate withdrawal from the noise of the day, a disciplined detachment from the insatiable self.
God whispers love to us in every moment, if we would but listen.
Today’s Florilegium entry (What is a florilegium?) is a song by Tenth Avenue North called “Times.” It’s lyrics capture a beautiful prayer dialogue, and give encouragement to keep listening to the still small voice.
(To listen, please click pause first on the Music for Dreaming in the column to the right >>)
I know I need You
I need to love You
I love to see You, but it’s been so long
I long to feel You
I feel this need for You
And I need to hear You, is that so wrong?
Now You pull me near You
When we’re close, I fear You
Still I’m afraid to tell You, all that I’ve done
Are You done forgiving?
Oh can You look past my pretending?
Lord, I’m so tired of defending, what I’ve become
What have I become?
I hear You say,
“My love is over. It’s underneath.
It’s inside. It’s in between.
The times you doubt Me, when you can’t feel.
The times that you question, ‘Is this for real? ‘
The times you’re broken.
The times that you mend.
The times that you hate Me, and the times that you bend.
Well, My love is over, it’s underneath.
It’s inside, it’s in between.
These times you’re healing, and when your heart breaks.
The times that you feel like you’re falling from grace.
The times you’re hurting.
The times that you heal.
The times you go hungry, and are tempted to steal.
The times of confusion, in chaos and pain.
I’m there in your sorrow, under the weight of your shame.
I’m there through your heartache.
I’m there in the storm.
My love I will keep you, by My pow’r alone.
I don’t care where you fall, where you have been.
I’ll never forsake you, My love never ends.
It never ends.”


The Men’s Missionary Union
The Men’s Missionary Union came many years after the Women’s Missionary Union. The organization was inaugurated in the church in 1980. Between 1980 and 1990, the organization was just trying to find its feet in the church. Many men felt reluctant to join the organization. Nonetheless, there was much progress between 1991 and 1992.
The Primary duty of the Men’s Missionary union as ordered by Christ is to evangelize the unbelievers. Hence, we have many preaching stations manned by student pastors. Most of the mission stations were already organized.
We hold meeting every Wednesday from 5.00 to 6.00pm, where we discuss Bible topics to enable members to grow spiritually. Seminars are also organized on various topics to educate members.


As God’s people, we are commended to “Be still” (Psalm 46:10). Psalm 46:10 (ESV) 10 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Every trial or major decision that arises, I recall these words and seek comfort. I can’t help but wonder what it actually means to ‘be still’ and how to make that happen. Initially I typed in ‘define still’ to the Google search bar, the Merriam Webster Dictionary returned:
“Free of turbulence”
Scrolling further down the page, ‘still’ has many related words which we can learn from. Calm: a peaceful mental or emotional state Peaceful: untroubled by conflict, agitation, or commotion Placid: serenely free of interruption or disturbance Quiet: gentle, easy going Tranquil: free from agitation of mind or spirit “Be still, and know that I am God.” Is not merely a saying, it’s a command and a state of being. To be still is to be free of turmoil or confusion. Being still is to trust in God’s plan and his ability to care for you and I. To be still is to be fully dependent on God! Isn’t it a relief to know that we are never alone or forgotten? All it takes is for us to be still.


Bear Behind (Ire)
Kodiac (GB) - Gerobies Girl, by Deposit Ticket
Bay Gelding, 2009
Record: 33-3-6-4 | Earnings: $132,100
In December of 2015, Bear Behind became one of the founding horses for the Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch in Fort Lupton, Colorado.
"In 1999, God spoke to my heart about having a youth ranch one day that He would use as a place for children and families to come just as they are and find refuge from their pain. He gave me Isaiah 61:3 and spoke to my heart about using this ranch to heal the broken-hearted and that He would turn their ashes into beauty, just like He did in my life. In October 2015, God led my husband, Ben, and I to a beautiful ranch in Ft. Lupton, CO to call Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch. The Vision of Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch is to connect children and horses together as hope is discovered in Jesus Christ." - Chalae Cartledge, founder of Graceful Oaks Youth Ranch


We know what it means to describe someone whose brain is on drugs or alcohol. The chemicals influence everything the person does with his/her brain. We have a basic idea of what to expect of someone “under the influence” because we know the debilitating effect of the substances creating the influence.
The Christian life may benefit from learning amazing things about how our brains function, but that is not where the Christian life rests. Our life in Christ rests on what happens in our minds, not in our brains.
What just became clear yesterday is that Paul’s description of the battle between the mind and the flesh is a fact of life in this present earthly journey. The mind is set on the law of God, and the flesh is set on the law of sin. The flesh is always going to try sabotaging the good we want to do, and promoting the bad we do not want to do. The renewed mind of the believer hungers and thirsts for the righteousness that is by faith in Jesus Christ.
On one side, Paul’s message is: get used to it. In this earthly lifetime, the mind/flesh dichotomy will always be in effect. On the other side, Paul’s message is: don’t put up with it. Just because the flesh is always working to get us to do things we don’t want to do, or to neglect the good things we do want to do, we do not need to do what the flesh says. Just don’t think you can get rid of the flesh. It must be handled a different way.
It now becomes amazingly clear how we are to look at the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Having the Holy Spirit does not stop the flesh from being the flesh. Rather, it stops us from being in bondage to the flesh. The natural man can only live in the flesh. The spiritual man has a new nature that serves the law of God, and he has the Holy Spirit to enable him to do so.
The clincher then is not the battle between the mind and the flesh, but the battle between the flesh and the Spirit. The mind will either dwell on the flesh, and keep falling into the trap of doing what we don’t want, and failing to do what we do want; or it will dwell on the Spirit, and keep growing up in Christ.
As I skimmed the next section of Romans 8:1-8, the thing that stood out to me is what Paul says about where we set our minds. The summary is that Christians “walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” This is the progression of what he stated earlier when he said, “we serve in the new way of the Spirit and not in the old way of the written code.” Since the written code mobilizes the flesh to sin, we do not live by the “old way of the written code,” and we do not “walk according to the flesh.” Instead, we “serve in the new way of the Spirit,” and we “walk… according to the Spirit.”
Then Paul addresses the mind, because it is the mind that determines whether we follow the flesh or the Spirit.
- “those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh” (8:5)
- “those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit” (8:5)
- “to set the mind on the flesh is death” (8:6)
- “to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” (8:6)
- “the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God” (8:7)
- “the mind that is set on the flesh … does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot” (8:7)
- “Those who are in the flesh cannot please God” (8:8)
As we join with our churches for fellowship, worship, and prayer, we must continuously consider whether our minds are dwelling on the flesh, or on the Spirit. Are our “preferences” based on what appeals to our flesh, or what appeals to the Spirit? Do we leave a church gathering feeling that a sermon was good because it brought us to a renewed experience of the Spirit’s work in our souls, or because our flesh was pleased that it affirmed us in our selfishness? When we think we see something wrong with our church, is it because we are hearing what the Spirit is saying to the churches, and we want to repent of what Jesus condemns, and grow in what he commends? Or, is it our flesh that sees something wrong because whatever is happening goes against what we want for ourselves.
In one of my church experiences, we ended up with a group of people who were excited about reading God’s word and putting into practice what they were reading, while another group didn’t want anything that would change the way they had been doing things for the past three decades.
After a while, one group of people come to meetings with their minds set on the Spirit, wanting to live out what God was teaching us in his word; and the other group coming with their minds set on the flesh (church pillars took on a whole new meaning here = hard as rock!), wanting to live out the political control of the church they had nurtured for years.
I have etched in my mind the extreme differences between what mattered to both groups, what each group turned to as their motivation, and even what the countenances of both sides looked like. Yes, both the flesh, and the Spirit, show on our faces!
We cannot escape the battle between a new mind that wants to know and do the will of God, and the flesh that is at work to live independent of God in every way it can imagine. The clincher is what we do with our minds. If we set our mind on what the flesh is telling us, we will obey the flesh, and do whatever disobedient, God-dishonoring things it imagines. If we set our minds on the Spirit, even while the mind/flesh dichotomy rages, we will bear the fruit of the Spirit, at least in a growing-up-to-be-like-Jesus kind of way.
After I began this post, I took another look at the larger picture of Romans 8 to remind myself where it would lead. It took me to this beautiful revelation of the Spirit’s ministry to our souls:
Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
The flesh takes advantage of us in our weakness to drive us to do what is independent, self-focused, and sinful. The Spirit helps us in our weakness. Big difference.
Even if we don’t know how to set our minds on the Spirit, and even if it feels like Satan is rallying every spiritual weapon against us, we can still pray in faith that God would empower us to set our minds on the Spirit. Ask, and you shall receive; seek, and you shall find; knock, and the door shall be opened to you.
Which reminds me of Jesus’ promise: “If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
If nothing else, let us set our minds on asking for the Spirit in every way we could possibly experience him this side of heaven. That IS according to God’s will, and he will answer us for his good pleasure, and for our complete joy.
And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him.
© 2015 Monte Vigh ~ Box 517, Merritt, BC, V1K 1B8 ~ firstname.lastname@example.org
Unless otherwise noted, Scriptures are from the English Standard Version (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.)
 I would now say that it is a bit of a hobby of mine to learn things about how our brains operate in order to see if there are things I can do to help people better process what is taking place in their lives. It has also made me conscious of the need for good nutrition. The better the fuel we put in our bodies, the better our bodies will function, including our brains. Seems like a no-brainer to me!
 Romans 7:25
 Romans 8:4
 Romans 7:6
 Each of the seven letters to the churches in Revelation 2-3 ends with the same phrase, “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22)
 All seven letters to the churches in Revelation 2-3 give Jesus’ assessment of their relationship to him. Four of the churches had something Jesus’ commended, along with something he condemned, or held against them; two of the churches had only things to commend in what they were doing; and one church had nothing Jesus could commend. Along with the epistles to the churches in the rest of the New Testament, our spiritual response to the condition of our church is based on what our minds recognize as the will of God in his word, not the personal preferences of our flesh.
 This is expected when we consider the contrast between the fruit of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:16-26.
 Romans 8:26-27
 Luke 11:9-10
 Luke 11:13
 I John 5:14-15


On Feb. 6th, 2014, I was proud to be featured in Healthier Church‘s “Tips for a Healthier Church” eblast series with a blog on how social media can affect church outreach. UPDATE: On March 25th, 2014, this blog was featured on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s “Living Lutheran” blog and shared over 1,500 times. We are thrilled so many of you found this piece helpful.
Is Your Church Using Social Media?
Your current and potential congregants are. Studies show millennials are strongly influenced by what their peers post on social media, and the largest growing demographic is users over age 50. Mars Hill Church gains 6,000 new followers per week. Previously sparsely attended Catholic churches in Buffalo, New York have welcomed “mass mobs” into the pews. Weekly twitter conversations surrounding social media and the church have included direct chats with Bishops of multiple denominations. Delving into the world of social media can be pretty daunting – I get it. Hashtags and mentions and bitlys, oh my! But social media is cheap, efficient, and effective – what better way is there to broadcast your church’s mission, message, and events to the entire world? So, after a lot of reflection and conversation (minus one burning bush, plus one burning laptop), I give you these 10 tips for churches on social media: “10 Commandments for Churches on Social Media”.