From the Missionary Field in the Philippines
January - February 2019
This past December 2nd, IBC had its 15th annual Police Appreciation Service. During the service there were five families present who came from different parts of our region as we remembered their loved one who died in the line of duty. It is hard to understand what these families have experienced and how they feel. The ways some of these officers died is tragic and heartbreaking. When we talk to the families each year and invite them they almost always come and every year some of the family members receive Christ as Savior.
They call the chief of police in our city the “City Director.” Col. Martin Defensor is our new city director in charge of almost 700 police officers. I met him at the turnover ceremony and the next day was at a meeting with him at the city police office. He shared his vision of helping the poorest and most needy people in the city. During the meeting someone mentioned there had been a large fire a few days before in a very poor neighborhood and that our church would be distributing items for the fire victims on Sunday. After the meeting was over I was surprised when he told me he would see me on Sunday. Sunday morning he arrived with 10 police officers and a truckload of clothing and other things for the fire victims. The heartbroken fire victims who came to church were so touched to see the chief of police there trying to help them.
That morning he told me how he wanted to have feedings at 10 elementary schools located in the poorest and most crime-ridden neighborhoods. I told him we would provide the food and would have the police go with us and pass it out to the kids. A week before the Police Appreciation Service we had a feeding at a school chosen by Col. Defensor. I arrived early at the school to see if the workers from IBC were ready with the food, which consisted of juice, bananas, bread, and a native kind of soup called Arroz Caldo. I was surprised to see Col. Defensor and police officers already there. They bought 600 pairs of shoes for each of the children.
The police commander of the first district, Lt. Col. Pablito, was also there as the school was located in his area. I’ve known him for a year and a half since he was transferred to Iloilo. We always preach to the children when we go to schools and go through the plan of salvation with them. Lt. Col. Pablito is a very strong Christian and a soul winner. I visited his jail a few months before. There were seven prisoners there. When he introduced them to me they greeted me and one of them said that they had just finished their Bible study together. He and the others shook my hand through the bars. They smiled and told me they would be praying for me. It seemed more like a church than a jail! Officer Pablito, I am sure, is the one who led them to Christ.
Getting back to the school feeding, Officer Pablito told me that the police officers personally donated most of the money for the shoes. The police don’t have much of a budget for that kind of thing and I admire their sacrifice. I asked Officer Pablito why he and Col. Defensor chose this school and he asked if I had noticed how malnourished many of the kids were. I noticed that some looked much younger than their grade. One thing I liked was the way the officers gave out the shoes. They would kneel down and personally put the shoes on the little feet of the children. I noticed a little boy there who didn’t have any hair and his face looked different. I asked a teacher what was wrong with him. I thought maybe he had cancer or something. The teacher said he had a skin disease that was rare, irritating, and itchy. She said it was hard for him to stay focused on his schoolwork. When it was his time to get shoes Col. Defensor kneeled down and put his arm around him and put on his shoes. I don’t think those children will ever forget the day the police officers came to their school.
The theme for IBC in 2019 is “A Servant’s Heart.” As we honored the police officers on Police Appreciation Service I reminded the members of Iloilo Baptist Church what I had learned about being a servant from our police officers. In our next newsletter I want to share some things that happened this year in the “Help the Needy” program Iloilo Baptist Church has every Christmas. This year it was December 17 -- 21. I’m sharing what Becky posted on her Facebook page about the “Help the Needy” program.
“It’s time for our ‘Help the Needy’ project that we have every Christmas! Our Bible students, church members, and staff give up their Christmas to …well, help the needy! Our folks go all over: jails, widows, orphans, handicapped, bed-ridden, fire victims, and the poorest people giving out gifts and love. They go to wards for the underprivileged in area hospitals and pass out tracts, sing Christmas carols, and witness to people so they can get saved - THE BEST Christmas gift!
“Young men in our Bible college repair broken down shacks the indigent call ‘home.’ Many donate clothes to bring to fire victims who’ve lost everything - this may not sound like a big deal but most of these kids only have one or two outfits themselves. Our people go to the prison and sing carols to the inmates, preach the Gospel, and pray for them. They have feeding programs for needy children. We minister to the widows, elderly, deaf, blind, and mentally slow. Precious church members give up a lot to conduct medical missions.
“These ‘forgotten people’ cry when our folks show up at their homes caroling, and bearing gifts. Our wonderful church members deliver food baskets to our fire and police departments, as well as our veterans. They visit the disabled, heartbroken, and lonely; pray with them, and become the hands and heart of Jesus.
“Many of our Bible students fast because it’s the only way they can give – to go without eating themselves. They sacrificially give to buy food to give to impoverished widows, and women who’ve been abandoned by their husbands.
“Instead of going home for Christmas our Bible students go to the Leper Hospital and sing carols, bring food, and mostly bring joy. They have Christmas parties for children in the slums; they do these things everyday over Christmas break, with little thought for themselves. They work overtime to earn money, just so they can give. They have done this every Christmas for many years. I am so touched and humbled by their selflessness.
“The girls clean houses and do laundry (by hand of course!) for people in the destitute areas and have games and candy for the children. These Bible students and church members, who many times are as poor if not poorer than the people they help, amaze my husband and I with their generous spirit. Like me, they will miss their families at Christmas time, but I know Jesus smiles when He sees them spending themselves for ‘the least of these.’
“Our staff kids have a Christmas party for children who lost everything to a fire. They donate books, toys, and clothes, even though they have precious few themselves. Our devoted people have a Christmas party for the children who have no home but live on the streets of Iloilo City. Doctors donate medicines and give kids free checkups. Friends donate a meal and gifts. Last year there were over 200 street kids and eight doctors. Most important, we tell them how to ask Jesus into their hearts to be their Savior. It’s one of the highlights of our year—loving street kids equals loving Jesus!
“On Christmas Sunday I give kids and adults on my routes a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, washcloth, comb, and shampoo. Can you imagine an American child sitting by the tree, unwrapping a gift, and finding a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and washcloth?! LOL! Yet the poor people on my jeepney route will be thrilled. I give a kilo (2.2 lbs) of rice to every adult on my routes that come to our Christmas musical. Can you imagine an American on Christmas morning, opening a gift and finding a little bag of rice?!
“It’s heartbreaking to see these suffering little children, absolutely no Christmas for them because their dads (sometimes moms) are drunk. No gift--even worse, no food because the money is spent on liquor and drugs. It’s pathetic. I lay in bed at night and cry thinking about their sad lives. I want so much to give them a little joy. Forgive me for bragging; I’m proud of our church people who so generously give their time and money to help Jesus. ‘Jesus?’ you ask? Yes! If we do it for the least of these we do it for HIM! These ministries go on all year long--but Christmas is BIG here at our church! It’s a special time to ‘love the unlovely’ and thus love Jesus!”
“’Verily I say unto you, in as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.’”
On December 11th we took our orchestra on a trip to the town of Tapaz, located two hours from Iloilo City. We had a Christmas program with the purpose of reaching those present for the Lord and also opening doors for the graduates of IBC who have started churches there. Tapaz only has about 4000 people but has 58 barangays (villages) outside the town. About 16 IBC graduates who have started churches in Tapaz brought church members to help us during the invitation. They also brought unbelievers. The town mayor spoke and did much to help us have this event. During the program we taught them about the different instruments in the orchestra and asked questions and gave out prizes to those who could answer them. There was a manger scene with Joseph, Mary, a baby, four lambs, and a couple of goats.
The speaker was Pastor Joseph Galicta, a member of our church years ago that moved to Manila and started a business. He became a pastor about three years ago and started a church. He is from Tapaz originally so I asked him to preach. He did a great job and there were many people who received the Lord as Savior that night. He is the one starting a radio station Paranaque, Manila. It was a memorable night.
This also marked the 15th year IBC has had a musical with actors, orchestra, choir and live animals. One of our newer students told us how excited he was in telling potential visitors about the program. He said he told them, “We have a choir, an orchestra, animals, and live actors,” with an emphasis on the “live actors.” I told him I hoped our actors were alive! The first two presentations are for first time visitors who would normally not come to a church like IBC. That night 424 senior citizens (a government sponsored program) came. They were a great audience and so open to the Gospel. There were many other “groups” our workers invited as well as many individuals and families. The first night over 1,700 first time visitors came!
Before and after the service we set up “The Town of Bethlehem,” with tax collectors, synagogue, fruit market, toy store, two inns, a stable, and a manger with Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus. There was a bread store, animal market, moneychanger, and a second manger with children actors. About 40 of the actors were there including the shepherds with their sheep, King Herod, Roman soldiers, the innkeeper, and others. About 10 of the actors were children. The wise men gave each child a toy, an apple, and a piece of chocolate. The first 300 children who came with their parents or grandparents got all three gifts.
The second night, a few minutes before starting, there was a citywide brownout but we are so grateful someone donated a generator to the church that was large enough to carry the load needed. Over 1,200 visitors came the second night including groups of police officers, barangay officials, and 48 DSWD workers (government social workers). They also helped us bring over 200 more senior citizens that night. Both nights a lot of the families and friends of those in our church who are a part of the R.U. (Reformers Unanimous) program for addictions came. So many people received Christ as their Savior those two nights. The Lord just keeps opening doors to reach people on special services like these.
In closing, please pray for the radio ministry. Gene Sharp of Independent Baptist Media is coming soon to set up several more stations. Each station is a miracle! We are so grateful for the faith of Brother Sharp. He has prayed much for the equipment. If you are interested in helping him financially to start these radio stations I can’t think of many projects more worthy than this. You can contact him at: firstname.lastname@example.org; cell number 419-320-3557; mailing address: 1022 S. Main, P.O. Box 263, Clyde, OH 43410.
Thank you for all you have done for the Lord’s work in the Philippines!
Sincerely in Christ,
Rick & Becky Martin


This isn’t my first exposure to Ehrman’s work. I previously listened to his Great Courses cds entitled “The Historical Jesus,” where some of the issues raised in this book were also brought up. I should also be upfront by saying that I was not raised in a religious household–quite the opposite. I enjoy learning about religion and the Bible from a historical and literary perspective. This book would be a good introduction for people like me: it isn’t too heavy, is written in easy going prose, and touches on a variety of historical and literary aspects of the Bible, enabling an interested person to continue to seek further information.
I can see why a deeply fundamental Christian would not like this book. Ehrman calls into question much of what is now considered to be the orthodoxy Christian viewpoint, and tries to dissect why so many of those who attend seminary and learn about the Bible’s contradictions go to their parishioners and say nothing of it. He shows that the Bible isn’t the word of God, straight from His mouth to the page, but a document that was written after the fact, over a long period of time, by differing Christian sects with differing ideas of what it actually means to be a Christian.
I really appreciated that Ehrman writes as an expert for the non-expert general reader class. His arguments are clear, even if they sometimes gloss over the fine details, in order to deliver the big picture to readers. The Bible is one of the most important works ever written, so I recommend this book to anybody who would like a better understanding of it, whether Christian or not.


|Angels & Nephilim|
Book, Book & CD Set, Flash Drive
Angles & Nephilim
$15.00 – $45.00
Angels & Nephilim Study: This study was taught during 5 weeks of Mary’s Bible Study
This study is to prepare you for the Last Days, to know how to work ‘with’ your angels and the reality of the War of the Seed. Also included is a study on the history of the Nephilim and the Spirit of Deception.


Christy Nockels was born in Ft. Worth, TX as a seminary baby. She grew up in Oklahoma as the daughter of a pastor and a piano teacher, which infused her heart early with a love for both music and God's word.
Christy met her husband Nathan in 1993 at the Christian Artists Seminar in Estes Park, CO. They married in 1995 and the two began serving as worship leaders in their local church in Oklahoma City, while Nathan finished college at Oklahoma Baptist University.
Louie Giglio, the founder of Passion Conferences, invited Christy and Nathan to attend the very first Passion Conference in Austin, TX in 1997. Later that year, Christy and Nathan moved to Texas where they led worship for Metro Bible Study, a weekly gathering of 3000 young adults at Houston's First Baptist Church.
Together as Watermark, Christy and Nathan have been nominated for numerous Dove Awards, including Christy's nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year.
Christy and Nathan have continued to serve at Passion Conferences and in 2008, they moved to Atlanta, GA to be a founding family of Passion City Church. Christy's heart through leading worship and song writing is to help people communicate intimately with the living God, and to leave a legacy of proclaiming Jesus' fame to this generation. Christy's most treasured legacy is her three children, Noah (8), Elliana (6) and Annie Rose (18 months).


Above: Peter Paul Rubens' Landscape with the Ruins of Mount Palatine in Rome
How should we live? - A question that lies right at the core of human identity. Its ever elusive answer has been pursued, examined and fought over throughout various traditions for millennia. The Great Conversation explores the most serious answers put forward through a weekly reading group covering a rich variety of foundational texts.
2017 Fall Semester covered texts from Homer to Augustine: Schedule
2018 Spring Semester covered texts from the Testament of St. Francis and the Benedictine Rule to Ficino: Schedule
2018 Fall Semester will cover selections from Calvin to Lord Byron: Schedule
If you are interested in joining us we ask that you please RSVP using the button below.


What does the Bible really say about being gay?
Inspired by the experience of coming out as a lesbian to her sorority sisters during her senior year at Vanderbilt, filmmaker Ky Dickens explores the Biblical passages used to condemn homosexuality in this informative yet entertaining documentary.
Interweaving whimsical animation with enlightening interviews from bothwithin the lesbian and gay community and as well with theologians from across the country, Fish Out Of Water breaks down seven key passagesfrom the Old and New Testaments – from Adam and Eve to Sodom and Gomorrah and the Purity Codes – while confronting the debate over translation and historical context that affect today’s interpretations of the Bible.
Fish Out of Water is essential viewing for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this contentious issue, or who is engaged in our national dialogue about faith, homosexuality and same-sex marriage.
Awards & Quotes
“A deep look at how certain messages get pumped from the pulpit.” – Chicago Sun Times”Director Ky Dickens tackles both sides of this debate with an arsenal of honesty and passion.” – The Windy City Times”We, the church and its leaders at all levels need this film.” – Rev. John Dorhauer; United Church of Christ rn
- Bonus InterviewsInfo SheetDirector's CommentsResource Guide


From July 30 to August 1, 17 members of the Nuns on the Bus Ohio spent a three day retreat at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity to discern direction for the coming year. Watch out, Ohio, here we come!
From July 30 to August 1, 17 members of the Nuns on the Bus Ohio spent a three day retreat at the Motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity to discern direction for the coming year. Watch out, Ohio, here we come!
What does Pope Francis say? Learn about his transformative vision on Saturday, July 19 at Xavier University in Cincinnati, when the Institute for Spirituality and Social Justice presents a workshop on The Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis' first encyclical.
Today, June 14, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of the U.S.A will convene in Detroit and continue for a week. The Reverend Susan Bryan of Mt. Auburn Presbyterian Church in Cincinnati asks for prayers from us and our supporters. The Assembly will take up discussion of whether to divest funds from corporations that contribute to Israeli-Palestinian violence. They will also address such issues as the use of drones in warfare, human trafficking, U.S. - Cuba relations, the income gap, racism, whether to allow pastors to perform same sex marriages in states where they are legal, immigration reform,peacemaking, and other social justice concerns. Reverend Bryan participates regularly in the Cincinnati arm of Nuns on the Bus Ohio. Let's ask the Holy Spirit to guide all present in their deliberations and discernment.
Week 6: Climate Change
"But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds of the air, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish of the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of God has done this? In God’s hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all humankind" (Job 12:7-10).
Lent means springtime, and signs of new life are slowly emerging around us, inviting us to reflect on our harmony in the web of life that sacramentally reveals God, and to learn its rhythms (as Job proclaims). As people of faith, we believe the earth is entrusted by God to our care and this month of Lent emerging into Easter and Earthday invites us to restore right relationships.
"Today the great gift of God’s Creation is exposed to serious dangers and lifestyles which can degrade it. Environmental pollution is making particularly unsustainable the lives of the poor of the world … we must pledge ourselves to take care of creation and to share its resources in solidarity." - Pope Benedict XVI
In Ohio, we have a particular moral responsibility in addressing global warming, as we produce nearly 1% of all global emissions. We are 3rd in the US, which ranks second internationally (17% of all global emissions though we are less than 5% of global population ) Ohio is also one of the highest polluters of toxins into our air, water and land. Hydraulic fracturing for natural gas can pollute and disrupt our land and waterways, while greater conservation and renewable energies (such as wind and solar) can create jobs and cleaner air. The impacts on the health, food, and livelihoods of poor and vulnerable in our own region and internationally (who are not the ones causing global warming) calls us to action. Traditions of sacrifice and fasting for the sake of the global common good can make a difference. For example, because of the high resource consumption (water, land use, deforestation) associated with meat production, fasting can substantially reduce our carbon footprint.
Other Steps we can take and Resources available
The Catholic Climate Covenant website (http://catholicclimatecovenant.org/) provides a great many resources to guide our five-steps in addressing climate change. Some Ohio-based and specific resources are also suggested.
* Pray - Marianist Environmental Education Center (MEEC) (http://meec.udayton.edu) in its publication section has resources for praying with nature and features native plant restoration and sales and information on environmental justice and climate change impacts in Ohio.
* Learn - Union of Concerned Scientists (www.ucsusa.org) has up to date sound science resources on climate impacts on Ohioans health and environment and energy solutions, and Ohio Environmental Council (http://www.theoec.org) provides Ohio-specific resources and public policy issues.
* Assess & Act The Lent Energy Fast booklet produced by MEEC includes 40 ways in 40 days that we can make changes that will conserve and reduce personal and institutional energy use.
* Advocate - Ohio Interfaith Power and Light (www.ohipl.org) has many resources to guide actions by individuals and congregations in energy conservation and public policy.
We pray that our great Ohio legacy of industry, agriculture, invention and technology can be channeled to renewable energy and creative solutions in new jobs, cleaner air and a healthier, more just environment for all.
-- submitted by Sr. Leanne M. Jablonski FMI
Week 5: Migration/Immigration
Last October a small fishing boat went down off the Italian island of Lampedusa, killing 366 migrants on board. They are only the most recent of thousands who have died trying to make this dangerous crossing. They were escaping Eritrea, a deeply impoverished and war-torn African country, with dreams of a safe and better life in Europe.
Eight months later, on July 5, 2013, Pope Francis visited Lampedusa and uttered these profound words, beginning with God's question of Cain in Genesis:
“’Where is your brother? The voice of his blood cries even to me,’ God says. This is not a question addressed to others: it is a question addressed to me, to you, to each one of us. These brothers and sisters seek to leave difficult situations in order to find a little serenity and peace, they seek a better place for themselves and for their families - but they found death. How many time those who seek this do not find understanding, do not find welcome, do not find solidarity!”
Pope Francis directed his remarks to “each one of us.” He was exhorting us to recognize the immigrant as our neighbor. He was calling us to look at “our Lampedusa.”
Teenager Nellie came to the United States with her mother from Mexico. She found work, saved money, and was about to buy a car when police stopped and arrested her for driving without a license (a catch 22 for undocumented immigrants). Sentenced to 8 months in jail for a first time offense, Nellie was plagued with depression. As a teenager, she fit into the Dreamer category, and a Dreamer organization took up her cause, with pro bono lawyers representing her, but to no avail. The judge made sure that Nellie served her full sentence before she was handed over to Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) to be deported back to Mexico.
Many desperate people who have tried to cross the border from Mexico have died in the desert. Those who successfully arrived are always in peril of deportation until they can receive the proper papers, a long and obstacle strewn process that can take many, many years. This is “our Lampedusa.”
This week the 2 millionth immigrant is expected to be deported under President Obama’s administration. On April 1, bishops will gather for Mass at the U.S. / Mexico border. We invite you to join your prayer with theirs.
Examine your own intolerance toward others.
Start a conversation with folks who think differently on immigration reform.
Call your Congressperson and the White House. Tell them to stop deportations.
-- submitted by Sr. Mary Wendeln CPPS
Today, March 29, despite pouring rain and chilling temperatures, 75 to 100 supporters joined the Fast 4 Families bus at Xavier University in Cincinnati to rally for Comprehensive Immigration Reform. Of course the Nuns on the Bus were there! (Several even rode in on the bus!) Among the featured speakers were Eliseo Medina, famed labor organizer, and several young Dreamers. Because Xavier University is the Alma Mater of House Speaker John Boehner, the message was simple and direct: "Mr. Speaker, give us a vote on comprehensive immigration reform!" — at Xavier University. (8 photos)
Week 4 -- Racism and Inclusion
Jesus said, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” (John 15:12)
When singing the song “All Are Welcome in Our Church,” do you ever wonder when that will really be true? As much as we might want to believe that all people are welcome in our church, unfortunately that is not always the case. We may want this spirit of inclusion with all our hearts, or we may unconsciously – or consciously -- think our church is for only a certain type of person. We feel more comfortable “with our own kind” and we have centuries of tradition to back up those feelings.
Jesus reached out to everyone. For example, in yesterday’s Gospel, he asked a woman in Samaria for a drink of water at Jacob’s Well. The woman replied, “How can you, a Jew, ask me, a Samaritan woman, for a drink?” (She said this because Jews and Samaritans did not use things in common.) Similarly, in the parable of the Good Samaritan, he praised the Samaritan for showing great compassion and mercy to a stranger found beaten on the road, a man whom a priest and a Levite had already avoided by crossing the road. (The Samaritan was Jesus’ example of fulfilling the biblical commandment: “Love your neighbor as yourself.)
Cultures build on the ideas of inclusion and exclusion. Jesus showed us another way.
Americans today carry a huge burden of racial exclusion based on our legacies of slavery, segregation, and Jim Crow laws. Black and white churches have been separate for centuries. Many institutional and historical factors keep them that way. Crossing the church color line is difficult because it requires a leap of faith – and hope – that one might be, if not welcomed, at least tolerated, in that other church. Perhaps seeing those of another race as neighbors in the biblical sense could help ease our uneasiness. Perhaps prayer could help us with this.
Am I, like the priest and Levite, sometimes tempted to avoid, judge, or fear another simply because of skin color? And if I am, what steps can I take to change those harsh reactions to gentler, more neighborly responses?
What simple steps can I take today to show neighborliness? Can I smile and say hello when I meet a stranger of another color? Can I introduce myself at a gathering or in a grocery line?
What can I do to bring about more neighborliness in my heart?
How can I help others in my church to feel more neighborly toward those not currently included?
“I am convinced that love is the most durable power in the world….Love is an absolute necessity for the survival of our civilization…. Someone must have sense enough and religion enough to cut off the chain of hate and evil, and this can only be done through love.” -- Martin Luther King, Jr. 1957
-- submitted by Sr. Joyce Kahle CPPS and Sequoia Powers
In support of teachers in Catholic schools, Nuns on the Bus in Cincinnati have written the following:
An open letter to the teachers and principals in the Catholic schools of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati:
As you discern your response to the contract presented to you for the 2014-15 school year, we assure you of our prayerful support. You have succeeded many of us as teachers and principals in a dearly loved and vital ministry in our parochial schools. Families today continue to look to Catholic education to prepare their children to live in a diverse, multi-cultural global society and to bring gospel values to the marketplace.
For some of you, it is a choice between following your conscience and keeping your job which provides your livelihood. It would be very detrimental to our schools to lose dedicated teachers who have given decades of service to Catholic education.
We remind you of the primacy of conscience and your importance as the Body of Christ. We pray that you will find a way to continue your ministry without compromising your integrity. May God show us the way forward together.
With love and deep respect,
The Nuns on the Bus
LENT FOR THE COMMON GOOD
Week 3 Health Care / Mental Health
“Charity is the Samaritan who pours oil on the wounds of the traveler who has been attacked. It is Justice’s role to prevent the attacks.” -- Blessed Frederic Ozanam
Losing both a job and health insurance at the same time is devastating for any family. In Alicia’s case, the family also lost their home. This proud, middle class family of five found itself in poverty and in line for assistance at Jobs and Family Services. Alicia and her husband took any jobs they could find, but the bills kept stacking up. The pressure took its toll. Alicia, particularly, found herself exhausted, angry, depressed, and unable to sleep. Her husband felt shame and guilt for not being able to adequately support his family. Grief counseling could have helped both Alicia and her husband to deal with these heartbreaking and debilitating losses.
As our nation continues to deal with its economic crisis, demand for mental health services is increasing, but state budget cuts are creating a vicious cycle that is leaving some of our most vulnerable citizens behind. Without treatment, the consequences of emotional distress for the individual and society are staggering -- unnecessary disability, unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, inappropriate incarceration, suicide and wasted lives. In the U.S., the economic cost of untreated mental illness is well over $100 billion each year.
We bring the good news of God’s love and active presence to others and to our community whenever we alleviate suffering, whether in body, mind, or spirit.
Do you know of anyone in your family (or perhaps yourself) who is suffering from stress and/or mental illness? Are his/her physical-health issues connected to emotional upset?
Do you know of places you can refer him/her for help? Are there affordable mental-health treatment centers in your neighborhood?
How do you extend the expansive heart of God with persons who suffer from mental challenges?
Are you intolerant or critical of persons who suffer from mental illness?
ACTION: call or speak with members of the Ohio legislature about the lack of resources for mental health.
-- submitted by Sr. Fran Repka, RSM
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)
"The Spirit of God is upon me, God has anointed me to bring Good News to those who are poor, to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, and that the oppressed will be set free.”(Luke 4:18)
Recently when I heard a speaker say that oppressed people share responsibility for their oppression, I was stunned. How can that be? Isn’t this blaming the victim? Then I heard it as a call to claim our inner freedom. Yes, we may suffer from others’ abuse of power, but our hearts can be free. With grace, our spirits can be whole.
Dan recently returned to society after being incarcerated for over 20 years. In spite of the harsh, demeaning environment he experienced in prison, he miraculously emerged without anger and hatred. Grateful for life and freedom to move about, he is friendly and helpful. He has very little of this world’s goods, but he is free – inside and out.
Peace and non-violence begin inside each of us and spread from there.
Do my words and actions plant seeds of peace or do I spread suspicion, distrust, or innuendo?
Do I model that God has set us free. Have I let go of feeling like a victim?
Resolve this week speak a word of encouragement or comfort to a person suffering from anxiety or stress.
Consciously choose not to add to negative political innuendos.
-- submitted by Sr. Carren Herring, RSM
Week 1: The Wealth Gap and Economic Justice
Pope Francis recently said, "Today we also have to say 'thou shall not' to an economy of exclusion and inequality. Such an economy kills. How can it be that it is not a news item when an elderly homeless person dies of exposure, but it is news when the stock market loses two points? This is a case of exclusion. Can we continue to stand by when food is thrown away while people are starving? This is a case of inequality.” “The Joy of the Gospel"(Evangelii Gaudium)
Do you know someone in your family, neighborhood, city, state or the world who is barely surviving? Have they been victims of an unjust economic system that believes in the “trickle down” or the “pull yourself up by the boot straps” philosophy?
An economically just system values the dignity inherent in all human beings, meets the person's basic needs – physical, spiritual and intellectual -- and calls us beyond selfishness to the common good by including full participation and sharing of power.
Is the person you know suffering from exclusion or inequality or both?
What new way can we act to include him/her in our community?
Is my table big enough to include that person for a few days?
Can I encourage my legislator to make changes in the law that widens our sense of “community?”.
-- submitted by Sr. Jean Miller, SC
February 25, 2014 - In one week Ash Wednesday will launch the holy season of Lent. Lent is about preparation for Baptism and renewing baptismal commitments. Those already baptized invite the Spirit to help us change from within so that we may enter into the deeper meanings of our faith. For each week of Lent, Nuns on the Bus Ohio will offer meditations and action steps inviting you to share our vision and spirituality. Welcome!
It has been almost a year since Pope Francis was elected by the College of Cardinals to lead the Catholic Church. From the beginning he has captured the hearts and imaginations of many with his humility, simplicity, and warmth. He continually reminds those with abundance that we must care about individuals who live on the margins, particularly the poor. He tells us the Church must be about inclusion, not exclusion. While he does not endorse the ordination of women as priests, he does say the Church needs a theology of women. On February 2, he spoke about the important role of nuns. Here is a summary of his remarks.
Vatican Radio) Pope Francis on Sunday highlighted the great value that nuns bring to the Church. “What would happen” – the Pope said – “if there were no nuns? No nuns in hospitals, in missions, in charitable institutions, in schools… Can you even imagine a Church without nuns…? No it is unthinkable!”.
And speaking on the day in which we celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life, the Pope said that nuns are great women. He said “they are a gift, the leaven that carries the message of Christ”. “These women – he said – are great!”
The Pope’s words came before the Sunday recitation of the Angelus in St Peter’s Square, after having presided over Mass in the Basilica on the Feast Day of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple, a Feast which is traditionally dedicated to Consecrated Life.
To those gathered in the Square Pope Francis said that consecrated persons in different sectors are “the leaven of a more just and fraternal society”. He said that “Consecrated Life is a gift of God to the Church and to His people”.
The Pope said that the Church and the world needs the witness of religious and consecrated lay people to the love and the mercy of God, and he asked for prayers so that many young people may say “yes” to God who calls them “to consecrate their lives to Him and to be of service to their brothers and sisters”.
Pope Francis recalled that the year 2015 will be dedicated to Consecrated Life and asked for prayers for this initiative. After the recitation of the Angelus Prayer, Pope Francis reminded those present that in Italy “The Day for Life” is celebrated today with the theme “Generating the Future”. He sent his greetings and encouragement to those committed to the defence of life from its conception to its natural end.
On February 2, 2014 Sister Mary Wendeln CPPS and Sequoia Powers will accompany a group of DREAMERS and their families to urge Speaker of the House John Boehner to sponsor Comprehensive Immigration Reform in the US House of Representatives. Please pray that we will be persuasive and he receptive. For more information see United We Dream.
Sister Barbara Wheeler OP, lifelong friend of the poor, died in Cincinnati on January 4, 2014. When the original Nuns on the Bus came through Cincinnati on its Midwest tour in June 2012, Sister Barbara was at the Peaslee Center in Cincinnati’s Over the Rhine neighborhood to greet them. This photograph notes that occasion. We cherish the memory of this good sister and pledge to carry forward the work she held dear.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on January 18, 2014 at St. Joseph Church, 745 Ezzard Charles Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45203. This will be followed by a Pot Luck Luncheon in Fr. Rivers Hall. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Dominican Sisters of Hope, 4027 Fawnhill Lane, Cincinnati, OH 45205.
The Comprehensive Immigration Reform Law is stalled in the House of Representatives. All over the country coordinated activities are taking place the week of December 15 to bring attention to the need to pass this important law.
TUESDAY DECEMBER 17, 6 PM, CINCINNATI
Join us for an evening of Christmas Caroling to support immigrant families. We will carol in SPEAKER JOHN BOEHNER'S NEIGHBORHOOD. Please come and invite your friends. It is time for Speaker Boehner to look into his heart and do what is right to support immigration reform!
Meet at 6 pm at the corner of Wetherington Drive and Tylersville Road in West Chester. Please park in the West Chester Meijer parking lot: 7390 Tylersville Road, West Chester, OH 45069. The evening will include complimentary hot cocoa and candy canes. (Contact firstname.lastname@example.org or 513-621-5991)
Hope to see you there!
Federal Funding for Ohio Medicaid Expansion
If Ohio expands the population served by Medicaid by January 2014, the state will receive the following matching federal funds to cover the additional cost:
100% in 2014, 2015, 2016
95% in 2017 90% in 2020 and thereafter
94% in 2018
93% in 2019
90% in 2020 and thereafter
Ohio Medicaid Today
The Ohio Medicaid program covers persons with disabilities and seniors up to 64% of federal poverty level (FPL); parents with dependent children up to 90% of FPL; children and pregnant women up to 200% of FPL; and workers with disabilities up to 250% of FPL. The FPL is $23,550 for a family of four.
Economic Impact of Medicaid Expansion on Ohioans
Over the nine-year period, 2014-2022, the Ohio Medicaid Expansion Study
estimates that expansion of Medicaid eligibility to people living at or below 138% of the federal poverty level would:
1. Allow $1.6 billion in state budget savings
2. Generate $2.7 - $2.8 billion in state revenue
3. Increase Ohio’s Medicaid costs between $2.4 billion and $2.5 billion
because more people would be covered
4. Result in $1.8 - $1.9 billion in net state budget gains
Current Status of Legislation in Ohio
Gov. John Kasich's budget proposal to extend coverage for Medicaid up to
138% of FPL, with a "safety valve" to protect against changes in the federal
matching rate, failed to gain enough support in the legislature.
Sen. Capri Cafaro introduced Senate Bill 166 to expand Medicaid coverage to
275,000 Ohioans and cap the cost growth of the program at 3.5% rate, half the
current rate. House Finance Chairman, Rep. Ron Amstutz (R-Wooster) hopes
to move on a package of bills regarding Medicaid expansion by early October.
Call to Action
Tell your Senator (www.ohiosenate.gov) and Representative
(www.ohiohouse.gov) to expand Medicaid to 138% of federal poverty level.
For More Information
The Ohio Medicaid Expansion Study is a partnership of the Health Policy
Institute of Ohio, the Ohio State University, Regional Economic Models, and the Urban Institute. To view all publications and materials for the Study, visit http://bit.ly/Ybiqxi.
From Church World Service:
Please share this info far and wide to prep everyone to get ready for a major call-in push for May 9, 14, 16, and 20-24 as the Senate considers amendments to the immigration bill.
NOW is the time! Get ready to make very important calls on amendments to the Immigration Bill!
On May 9th, the Senate Judiciary will begin voting on amendments to the Bipartisan immigration bill (S. 744). See compiled faith statements and analysis on the bill at http://www.interfaithimmigration.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/IIC-Statements-on-Immigration-Bill.pdf. Once the process begins, it will be important for faith voices to be heard in support of or in opposition to those amendments that will impact our communities. Please get ready to make calls on the important dates listed below. We already know that we will have to defeat anti-refugee and -asylum amendments, and push for improvements to the family unity provisions, eligibility for the pathway to citizenship, enforcement provisions, etc.
• On May 6 at 4:00 EST, the Interfaith Immigration Coalition will host a webinar on how we are organizing to add positive amendments and prevent anti-immigrant amendments to the bill. To join, call 805-399-1000, access code 104402#. RSVP for a link to the visual portion on the morning of the call.
• We expect the Amendment process to begin on Thursday May 9, and continue on May 14th, 16th, and 20th - 24th. Once the process begins, it will be very important for every single person in our networks to CALL 1-866-940-2439 on those mornings, to hear about amendments and urge your Senators to support or oppose amendments that will impact our communities. The IIC will send action alerts on the morning of each day with information on what amendments will be considered. You can sign up for alerts at http://www.interfaithimmigration.org/.
• Members of Congress will be home for recess on May 27-June 3, which is a great opportunity for us to meet with them in neighbor-to-neighbor visits, and host family unity prayer vigils. Both May and June are great times to draw media attention to your support for humane and compassionate immigration reform. Try your hand at letters to the editors responding to immigration reform stories you read in your local newspapers and voice your support for immigration reform that keeps families together, improves the lives of refugees, and creates a roadmap to citizenship for the 11 million aspiring Americans.
There is materials-online IIC Communications Toolkit.to support your media outreach. See also the Map of Actions and Calendar Events on the IIC Website, and please coordinate with local immigrant rights groups
The time is now to make immigration reform a reality! Let’s work together and make it happen!
Join NOTB Ohio and others as we work to move immigration reform forward!
Nuns on the Bus Ohio joined thousands of other Ohioans at the Statehouse to support Medicaid Expansion in Ohio! We heard from a veteran and other hard working Ohioans who deserve to have the healthcare they need! All Ohioans deserve to have the healthcare they need! Urge your State representative to expand Medicaid!


Picture this (in my Sophia from Golden Girls voice), you’re sound asleep, tucked away in your warm and cozy bed, the lights are off, and your blackout curtains are allowing for you to stay in the dark for as long as you desire.
All of the sudden, someone storms into your room, flips the light switch on, and swiftly pulls the drapes wide open, for the blinding sun to beam directly into your abruptly awakened eyes. What’s your first reaction?
How about just outright Angry?
You’re either going to allow for your eyes to adjust to the light, or you're going to close the drapes, to willfully stay in the dark.
Well, that’s how God’s revelation of our identity feels like at first. I’ll never forget the moment when God called me out of my dark place, to step into the light of who He created me to be. You want to talk about discomfort? I wish I could tell you that all was going well in my life and God just spoke to me softly, and I dropped everything and decided to go to the mountaintop of my dreams.
I battled with deep depression and anxiety (I'm talking monthly visiting to the ER for panic attacks), self-love was a struggle for me, I was toxic, my professional relationships were toxic, my marriage was on the verge of ending, and I was on the verge of wanting to end my life. But in my rage, when my body collapsed on the pavement, from a nervous breakthrough, I believe that was God saying, “enough is enough my child”, It’s time for you to Become who I have called you to be. And I had to sit with that instruction. For years I had to let God re-write my narrative. For every word I spoke against myself, you know that inner critic liar spewing nothing but lies.
“You’re not enough."
"You’re an illegitimate child and you don’t belong here."
You’re ugly and an Imposter" blah blah blah….
God had to show me why I was wrong. He began to give me affirmations from His word and gracefully broke my heart open, in the most benevolent way.
The TRUTH is:
"I am fearful and wonderfully made!'
"I am worthy of the calling God has purposed me for!"
"I am God’s righteousness!"
"I am a joint heir with Christ Jesus!"
"I am a masterpiece, and most of all I am Loved."
When the light of Christ shined on my life, I was able to step into it, because no other light was able to offer me the wholeness I began to feel. So, I stepped into it, uncomfortable, but I made the decision.
Since making the decision to BECOME and live from affirmation as opposed to living for it. My company's business revenues increased 248% in just one year, I have enough bandwidth to spend time with my family, I get to help women all over the world embrace their God-given identity and build lives and businesses of abundance, and most importantly, I am fulfilled and free.
I want the same for every woman-owned business. I want every woman to feel the harmony of life and work that God has blessed me with.
As I stated in my last blog post “Healing Parental Patterns Can Transform Your Life and Business”.
"Our lives and businesses will only grow as far as our deepest wound."
I would like to couple that with,
"Your Business is a Manifestation of Who You Are?"
So, Who Are You?
Are you fulfilled with that answer? If not, identify who you desire to become?
And Go BE!
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is, His good and pleasing and perfect will." ~ Romans 12:2
Let us know in the comments.
If you like this content, please like and share with other leaders who need this message.


The academy is the brainchild of Mrs. Erica Kulumba the owner and manager. She is a renowned educationist here in the Coast Province with a wealth of experience. The school was started in 1991 with just three students in the nursery section. It has since grown to offer nursery, primary and secondary education.
The school is a full day and boarding school embracing nursery, primary and high school.
It offers the Kenyan 8-4-4 curriculum and has achieved remarkable results in both KCPE and KCSE examinations.
ADMISSION SPECIAL OFFERS
Rise and Shine Academy offers admission throughout the year. Admission Forms are FREE!!! Admission Fees will be waived if you register your child before 31st January 2013 for the new academic year (Standard 1 - 7only ). All are welcome.
To be among the best Christian institutions in the area recognized locally, nationally and internationally to the glory of God almighty.
The purpose of our school is to teach God's children to know their Saviour and to love Him dearly so that they will be able to rise from poverty, ignorance and disease. This transformation through Christian teaching should enhance the quality of life in the community in which they live.
Learn and Shine is based on Isaiah 60:1, 'Arise and shine for your light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.'
OUR CORE VALUES
Care, Courtesy, Consideration, Hard Work, Innovation, Smartness, Team Work, Honesty and Transparency


YOUNG ADULTS VESPERS "REST" is a gift we don't know how to receive. Join our in-depth study in the doctrine of "SABBATH" and "REST" every 1st and 3rd Friday! Dinner and Refreshment is FREE! Message us for more info!
YOUNG ADULTS SABBATH SCHOOL Join us as we engage and reflect on our quarterly lesson, "On Mission and Purpose" Saturdays| 10:15am
Young Adult Hangout! Need a community or simply wanted some people to hang around and talk to? Join our Young Adult Hangout! Message us for more info!


You are Destined to Win!
Barbara Marie Jackson is a proud wife of Henry Jackson, Jr. for 27 years and they have five wonderful children, Eric, Erica, Henry III, Joshua and Hannah and five grandchildren. She has been a faithful laborer in God’s Kingdom for over 35 years; her foundation is built on solid biblical principles. She has continually challenged the people of God to go to the next dimension in him.
Become A Partner
Join Barbara Jackson Global as a partner or sponsor. I am so excited that you decided to connect with me to help make ministry happen. As a sponsor and a partner, you will help us share with the world the gospel of Jesus Christ as well as empowering them to become the best version of themselves. Thank you in advance.


In October 2012 we, Apostle Thomas & Lady Aimee Clute along
with some of our ministry staff, will be traveling to the country of
Pakistan for a mission trip. Since February 2012 we have seen
over 6,500 souls give their hearts to Christ through our ministry
there. We are believing for thousands more as we will unite with
other Pakistanian pastors there in a crusade. We will also be visiting
orphanages and giving out Bibles. This is a nation that is only
3% Christian. In Mark 16:5 Christ commissions us “Go into all the
world and preach the gospel to every creature.”
It is our hope that as we endeavor to proclaim Christ, we can have others unite with us to see lives changed. We are presenting this letter to you as a request for your heartfelt donation. We are believing God to raise $25,000.00 to help us give bibles in the native language of Urdu and lease buses to transport people from all over the country to the crusades. This will also help with trip expenses as it is a very costly trip.
We hope that you will prayerfully consider donating, you or your church; a monetary gift of any size to our missions work. All gifts go directly to the River of Life church in Gulfport, MS. We are a 501c3 organization and all donations are tax deductible. If you have any questions or need any additional information you may contact us at (228) 229-4247 . We sincerely thank you for any help you are able to provide. We pray God’s blessings be upon you.


The Bible is unique! It is not enough to say that it is a unique Book, for it is a collection of sixty-six (39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament) ancient Books. Moreover, this unique collection of Books is bound together by a central theme and a unity of purpose which makes the books into One Book
The Bible is a central source of authority for all Christian and reveals many important teachings. Christians often turn to the Bible to seek guidance and understand the history of their faith.
Nature of the Bible
The first part of the Bible is called the Old Testament, which begins with God’s Creation of the universe and humanity. The Old Testament was written before the incarnation of Jesus. It begins with the five Books of God’s Law, which Jewish people call the Torah. These books are believed to contain the laws God sent to the Jewish people via Moses. The Old Testament, as a whole, describes the history of the Jewish people prior to Jesus.
The second part of the Bible is called the New Testament. It opens with the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) which describe the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. At the very start of the New Testament is Matthew’s description of the birth of Jesus. Following on from the gospels is the book called the Acts of the Apostles (sometimes just referred to as ‘Acts’). The New Testament also contains the letters of the early Church leaders to the early Christians, such as St Paul’s letters. It ends with the Book of Revelation, which tells Christians about the end of the world.
Role of the Bible
- The Bible records the teachings of Jesus during his life. These teachings give Christians guidance and instructions on how to live their life. The Sermon on the Mount is an example of a collection of such teachings.
- The Bible tells Christians about the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus. All of these events have significance, and in particular they are linked to the idea of salvation.
- Christianity teaches that it is through Jesus’ life and death that humans can be saved from sin. The Old Testament contains the Ten Commandments, which are believed to be instructions sent directly from God that tell humans how to live.
Significance of the Bible
- The Bible shows Christians what God is like. This is important for Christians in building a relationship with God.
- The Bible can play an important part in worship both in private and public settings.
- In private worship, people can use the Bible to seek guidance on how to manage problems in their life.
- In public worship, the Bible brings people together and creates a sense of community and shared practice.


There are two major forms of the Latin Rite. We have the Ordinary Form (Novus Ordo) which is what most people experience in almost all the parishes here in Las Vegas, and then there is the Extraordinary Form. There are similarities and differences between both forms, the most striking being that the Novus Ordo is said in the vernacular (the language of the people; i.e. English, Spanish, Tagalog, etc.) while the Extraordinary Form is said in Latin (with the homily and the readings in the vernacular). The Extraordinary Form goes by different names. Some call it the Traditional Latin Mass (or the TLM for short), the Tridentine Mass, or the Pre-Vatican II Mass.
The Extraordinary Form of the Mass is how the liturgy was celebrated and experienced by many saints through the ages, including St. Padre Pio, St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Bernadette, the children of Fatima, St. Maximilliam Kolbe and thousands of others.
If you are interested in learning more about this Mass, please see our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We are blessed to have Holy Days of Obligation and some special Feast Days throughout the year. Location is not always in the same place. To be kept up to date send an email to email@example.com and request to be added to the email list or visit our page on Instagram: @latin_mass_las_vegas
Yes. St. Bridget’s parish is part of the Diocese of Las Vegas under the authority of Bishop George Leo Thomas. The Bishop has given permission for this Mass.
The Mass usually lasts around one hour to one hour and ten minutes, just like any regular Mass. Very occasionally, on Holy days such as Easter or Christmas it may last up to one hour and 30 minutes at the very most.
There are a lot of families with very young children - so you’ll be in good company! All kids get antsy sometimes even at a regular Mass in English - some squirminess and movement is to be expected. If your child is especially rambunctious on a given day you can sit in the cry room at the back of the church. Many parents also choose to step into the nave of the church temporarily when their babies or toddlers need a break, or if they are being disruptive. Some happy babbling or baby noises are fine, and are not a reason to step out. Although the Mass is fairly quiet, you will often hear other children making some slight noise during the Mass.
No. Mass booklets are provided in English and Spanish, which have short explanations of what is going on so that you can follow along in your own language. The corresponding English or Spanish text is on the opposite page from the Latin so you understand what is being said. Furthermore, the readings are often in English rather than Latin (by special dispensation), and the homily is always in English.
The truth is that there is a learning curve until you get used to the differences between our Mass and a Novus Ordo Mass. Give yourself a few weeks to get used to it. Sit toward the back of the church so you can observe when everyone else is sitting, kneeling, and standing. Its ok to be a little lost at first, no one will judge you, because we were all there once! Ask anyone who looks like they know what they’re doing to help you find your place when you get lost. Worst case scenario, just close the book and simply watch and listen for a while. Its ok to do that, and simply unite yourself spiritually to the Mass without physically doing everything the congregation does.
Absolutely! Just like in a regular Mass, there are sung parts that involve the entire congregation. For example, the Gloria, the Creed, the Sanctus and Angus Dei, as well as the responses when the priests says “The Lord be with you”, and we reply, “And with your spirit”. We also often start with an entrance hymn in English before starting the Introit in Latin.
No. You can feel free to actively participate by interiorly uniting your heart and prayers with those of the priest as he celebrates Mass.
A chapel veil, also known as a mantilla, used to be required for women attending Mass, but this is no longer the case. It is a totally personal preference. Some women feel called to wear the veil, others do not. No one at our Mass will judge you either way - we’re just happy to see you!
The norm in the Extraordinary Form of the Mass is to receive our Blessed Lord kneeling and on the tongue. If you are physically unable to do so, simply stand to the side of the kneelers to receive Holy Communion.
In the Extraordinary Form the choir is referred to as a schola cantorum, which means “school of singers”. Here in Las Vegas we have the pleasure of having our very own Schola to help us experience the “good, the true, and the beautiful” at Holy Mass. The Schola studies and sings Gregorian chant and sacred polyphony, as well as traditional English hymns. Our regular Sunday Schola is primarily comprised of young people, ages 12-18. We also have a mini schola of children ages 7-11 who are currently in formation and will begin singing on the 4th Sunday of every month starting in July 2016. And there is a men's schola which is also currently in musical formation and will soon form part of our regular Sunday group. Please kindly pray for our singers and their families, as they make a big commitment and sacrifice a lot in order to provide the music each Sunday.
Please use the media player at the right to hear what the Schola sounds like. If you don’t see the “play” button, scroll down a little further, or double click the name of the song to make it play.
For more information, please contact our Schola Director Andrea Leal at firstname.lastname@example.org


This beautifully edited book by Hugues Didier, a historian of Jesuit missionary Francis Xavier and of Catalan philosopher Raymond Lully, proposes a French translation of varied documents related to the four-year (1603-7) journey by Portuguese Jesuit missionary Bento de Góis in Northern India, Central Asia, and China. After a biographical introduction of Bento de Góis, with developments on the “disguise of the messengers and of the message” among Christian missionaries, the volume provides a selection of Latin and Portuguese-language texts that document the interest of Mughal India’s Iberian missions ― notably of Francis Xavier himself ― in the possibility of a Chinese Christendom, and the continuity of the missionary dream of a Christian Empire of Cathay distinct from China (notably by Archbishop of Goa, Aleixo de Meneses). A succession of letters by Bento de Góis to diverse correspondents opens wide perspectives on the traveller’s mood as a Muslim convert on the eve of undertaking his Central Asian journey. It is accompanied by varied testimonies on Bento’s mission from the Society of Jesus (notably different relations from the Italian priest Matteo Ricci’s Description of China, and from the same author’s correspondence). The third part of the book is made of excerpts from Ricci’s inquiry on the Kingdom of Cathay’s belonging to Christianity. The fourth and main part (pp. 153-282) is a historical file on some of the issues of Bento’s mission: the initial admixture of Islamic and Christian fantasies about China; Bento’s experimentation of ideas and methods elaborated by Francis Xavier’s nephew Jerónimo Javier (partly inspired by Lully); Ricci’s relation to Hui Muslims. In all, despite the extreme scarcity of materials emanating from Bento de Góis himself, H. Didier has managed to resituate his personal and intellectual venture in the wider context of Muslim-Christian contacts and relations in and around India, with particular sensitivity to the exceptionally rich fantastical production of the Society of Jesus at the turn of the sixteenth and seventeenth century.


Espoo's Saint Lucy is visiting the Learning Centre on 15 December, at 1pm
Saint Lucy's Day is celebrated as a memorial to the legend of Saint Lucy on December 13th every year. The celebration originates from the Catholic church, but today it is celebrated mainly in Swedish-speaking culture.
Traditionally, a girl elected to portray Lucy, is dressed in white clothes, a red belt and wearing a crown of candles on her head and holding a candle in her hand. The idea is that Lucia (lat. Lux, light) brings light to the darkness of winter.
There's a chance to participate to a charity fundraising.


Introduction to Theology Survey – THEO 104. CG • Section 8WK • 11/08/2019 to 04/16/2020 • Modified 11/30/2020. Course Description. This course is an introduction to the basic tenets of
2 points. Question 6. 1. _____ is the word that is used to indicate that God is knowable.
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Liberty University THEO 104 quiz 1Results DisplayedQuiz 1 Question 1 2 out of 2 pointsSoteriology is the study of sin.Question 2 2 out of 2 pointsThe Bible is the primary source of material for studying theology.Question 3 2 out of 2 pointsWhich of the following is not one of the four types of theology?SpiritualQuestion 4 2 out of 2 pointsTheology is based upon individual opinions and … THEO 104 Quiz 5 THEO 104 Quiz 5 Liberty University Set 1. Though we often think about what we want to be when we grow up, we are not nearly as reflective on who we are now. What are the lies that humans believe about their identity? Unlike the rest of the creation account, human creation was not a divine act. THEO 104 Quiz 4 Liberty University Set 1 The importance of the Holy Spirit is seen when Jesus gave the Great Commission to the disciples. The __________ Creed signifies the belief in the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. According to Luke 4, the Holy Spirit was non-existent in the life of Christ.
THEO 104 quiz 3 answers complete solutions Complete many different versions to get an A on your grade! The below shown is just one version sample. Download it for more and ace on your quizzes and exams! Question 1 2 out of 2 points By Jesus claiming to be the “bread of life,” He is claiming to be God. · Question 2 2 out of 2 points Within Islam, Jesus is considered to be a false prophet
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theo 104 quiz 7 Open Homework Posted by: arwaabdullah Posted on: 07/11/2020 Deadline: 14 Days Liberty University THEO 104 quiz 7 · Question 1 0 out of 2 points Who had a large influence and ministry in Switzerland and wrote institutes of the Christian religion?
All world religions really worship the same god, just in different ways. Jehovah-Rapha means “The Lord that ______.” Materialism is the … Continue reading "THEO 104 Quiz 2" THEO 104 Quiz 7 Liberty University Answers Set 1 Who launched the protestant reformation in Germany? Who had a large influence and ministry in Switzerland and wrote institutes of the Christian religion? John Wycliffe translated the Bible into English and Johann Gutenberg invented the printing press during what major church era? Liberty THEO 104 Quiz 5 Answers Complete Solutions.
THEO 104 Quiz 4 THEO 104 Quiz 4 Liberty University Set 1. The Holy Spirit glorifies Christ through working in the lives of believers to help them be more Christlike in all that they do. The importance of the Holy Spirit is seen when Jesus gave the Great Commission to the disciples. Learn Theo 104 quiz 3 with free interactive flashcards.
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Showing 1 to 8 of 24 View all . How does the tendency to push religion away from the public arena affect the Christian's ability to engage culture? What are the areas within your own life; How does the tendency to push religion away from the public arena affect the Christian's ability to theology quiz 5 2015-06-11; theo 104 study guide 2 2017-01-10; week 2 study guide 2011-06-01; theology 104 quiz 3 2015-05-31; theology quiz 6 2015-06-18; theology quiz 7 2015-06-26; theology quiz 4 2015-06-04; week 1 study guide 2011-07-11; theo 104 study guide 1 2017-01-10; week 1 study guide 2016-03-21; theo 104 study guide (2013-14 View THEO 104 - Quiz 8.docx from THEO 104 at Liberty University.éter alebo bitcoin dlhodobo
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THEO 104 Quiz 1 Liberty University Set 1 The word theologycome from the words theos meaning ______ and logos, meaning ______. Theology does not have a practical application to our lives. Biblical theology is the study of God from the use of reason and revelation of God from his world. Orthodoxy is the study of right ________, where orthopraxy … Continue reading "THEO 104 Quiz 1"
Though we often think about what we want to be when we grow up, we are not nearly as reflective on who we are now.


Are you living in doubt or living in faith?
This question was posed today during a Christmas pageant. Since it caused me pause, I thought I’d share it with you. While I think the intent of the question was grounded in Christian faith, I think it applies to faith in yourself, faith in others, along with your religious or spiritual faith.
A friend of mine recently turned down the job of her dreams because she didn’t think she could handle the position. Those of us who know her, know she would be a rock star in that position. She allowed her doubt to hold her back. That offer may or may not ever come again. If she had stronger faith in herself and her abilities, she might have made a different decision.
We’ve all experienced some level of doubt. Did the doubt paralyze you? Did it prevent you from trying something new? If you had more faith would you have done things differently?
Don’t let your doubts prevent you from achieving your goals!


St. Peter’s Church Cemetery, Tewin England
In a small church in Herfordshire England lies the grave of Lady Ann Grimston. Buried 200 years ago, her tomb attracts visitors from all over the world to see the tomb with a huge tree growing over it. While it makes a spectacular site the story behind it is even more interesting.
Lady Ann lived her life to the fullest, being rich she had a large house, a large social circle and beautiful clothing. While many of this era were religious believing in the afterlife she thought her current life was all there was, once you died that was it.
She is quoted as saying “I shall not continue to live. It is as unlikely that I shall continue to live as that a tree will grow out of my body.” She even challenged God, saying “If, indeed, there is life hereafter, trees will render asunder my tomb.”
It seems God accepted the challenge, over the years a tree has grown out of her tomb, one tree with four trunks. One has even taken over the original metal railings surrounding her tomb which is now broken pieces of marble.
The Village Cemetery, St Paul de Vence France
Jennifer from Our Family Travel Adventures
Just up the road from the beaches of Cannes and Antibes stands St Paul de Vence, a medieval walled city on a hill, with gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside. Founded in 1388, St Paul de Vence developed into a retreat for artists in the 20th century. The village graveyard surrounds the 16th century Church of St. Michel. The artist Marc Chagall lived in the village for 20 years and featured it in many of his later paintings. You can visit his tomb, where he is buried with his wife. It’s a simple slab tomb, somewhat near the front and center. The cemetery is beautiful, with amazing views, flowers and walking paths.
Rochester Cathedral, Rochester England
Sianna from E O Stories
The lovely small town of Rochester has one of the most beautiful and peaceful Gothic Cathedrals I’ve seen. In front of it, there is a little cemetery. It might not impress people passing by but there’s an interesting story about Charles Dickens related to this place. No, he’s not buried here but it was indeed his last wish. Rochester was Dickens’ favourite place and inspired many of his novels, characters and landscapes. He specifically asked to be buried in the cathedral’s cemetery but the clergy at that time insisted that the author has to be buried in the Poets’ corner in Westminster Abbey’s. Today there is a memorial of Dickens and his death wish on one of the walls of the Rochester Cathedral.
Danielle from Geek Girl Goes
Okunoin is the most popular graveyard in Japan. In fact, there are currently over 200,00 graves there – and counting! This is because of the legend that surround this magical place. Followers of Esoteric Buddhism believe that Kobo Daishi (who founded this strain of the religion), entered a cave here to meditate in 835AD. He is still there today, as his meditative state held back death. When Kobo Daishi finally decides to travel up to heaven, he will take all those souls that are waiting in Okunoin with him.
Walking around here is an incredible experience, during the day, and at night. The rows upon rows of ancient graves are amazing to discover. Following the audio tour round you learn about all the famous names from Japanese history – including the warlord Oda Nobunaga!


Sunday Seminars is an adult education hour that expands our understanding of the subtle details and overarching truths of our God and the theology, ministry, and history He has authored. Meeting every Sunday morning at 9:00am for one hour, Sunday Seminars run on multiple tracks and are open to everyone.
Seminars at Faith are designed to train us in our discipleship of Jesus Christ. We provide six separate tracks in a two year cycle.
- The History & Theology track exposes us to the history and doctrine of the church.
- The Christian Discipleship track lays out insight for how we can grow as Christians.
- The Engaging the World track trains us how to engage the world with the good news of Jesus Christ.
- The Basics track grounds us in the basic disciplines of the Christian life.
- The Bible Overview track seeks to improve our understanding of Scripture.
- The Christian Roles track applies God’s wisdom to our various relationships.


Aglipayan Churches of AbraIglesia Filipina Independent - Abra
The Aglipayan Churches of Abra
The Aglipayan Church – A Brief History
The Philippine Independent Church (PIC) or Iglesia Filipina Independiente was founded on August 3, 1902 with Gregorio Aglipay as its first Obispo Maximo (Supreme bishop).
Co-founders of the church were Gregorio Aglipay and Isabelo de los Reyes y Florentino, who was imprisoned during the revolution for his criticism of Spanish clergy and government officials in the Philippines. Aglipay accepted de los Reyes’ request that he serve as the supreme bishop of the new church in 1903, a position he held until his death in 1940.
In its early days, the PIC became a major religious sect that attracted many followers to its anti-friar and anti-imperialism campaigns.
As a matter of fact, PIC churches displayed the Philippine flag at the side altar to impress to the public its reverence to the country and to the heroes who fought during the Spanish and American colonial period.
Although many Spanish friars protested abuses by the Spanish government and military, others committed abuses. Some blocked the ascent of native clergy in the Catholic hierarchy, and claimed vast estates from landless farmers. Cases of sexual abuse of women were widely known, and priests were known to sire illegitimate children. Anak ni Padre Dámaso (child of Father Dámaso), alluding to a character in one of José Rizal’s novels, became a cliché or stereotype to refer to an illegitimate child, especially that of a priest. The executions of Fr Mariano Gomez, Fr José Burgos, and Fr Jacinto Zamora (collectively known as the Gomburza) at the hands of Spanish authorities is said to have had a deep effect on Dr José Rizal and subsequently the 1896 Philippine Revolution.
Photo credit: http://aglipayan.wordpress.com/
At the end of the 19th century, Filipino nationalism emerged, preceding the struggles of other colonies in Asia, such as India and French Indochina. Spain’s last remaining colonies in the Americas, Cuba and Puerto Rico, were fighting for secession at the same time. After the execution of prominent native-born clergy such as the Gomburza at the hands of the Spanish royal authorities, Church reforms became a facet of the Philippine Independence movement.
Winning large numbers of followers in its early years because of its nationalist roots, Aglipayan numbers decreased due to factionalism and doctrinal disagreements. Some factions,tending towards more radical protestant reforms, formally joined other denominations including the Episcopal Church and the American Unitarians. The definitive growth limiting factor was the decision of the American government, after the Spanish-American War, to award the seized Catholic church buildings of the Philippine Independent Church — the majority of which had become Aglipayan during the revolutionary period — to the Roman Catholic Church.
The Evolution of the Diocese of La Union, Ilocos Sur and Abra (LUISA)
The Diocese of LUISA is composed of three Provinces formed into twenty Parishes.
Province of La Union (Caba, San Gabriel and Bacnotan),
Ilocos Sur ( Sevilla, Babayoan, San Pedro and Daligan in Sta. Cruz; Suyo, Salcedo, Candon, San Esteban, Narvacan, Sto. Domingo, Cabugao, and Sinait)
Abra (Pidigan, Lagangilang, Dolores, San Juan, and La Paz)
This entry is adapted from Wikipedia, Source: Iglesia Filipina Independiente, Our Heritage Our Journey Our Legacy, 2002.
The Aglipayan Church in Abra
At the inception of the Filipino Church in 1902, the whole province of Abra was constituted as the Diocese of Abra. Moved patriotically by the burning nationalist aspirations of the time, the whole populace joined the newly established Iglesia Filipina Independiente.
The only Filipino priest in Abra – Rev. Fr. Ramon Farolan of Bangued – also joined the new church. He was nominated and eventually accepted the position of first Bishop of the new Diocese. In concurrent capacity, Bishop Farolan was also appointed as the Delegado Apostolico del Obispo Maximo en el Valle Cagayan.
The prominent and patriotic laymen in their respective localities, who initiated the organization of the church were revolutionary Col. Blas Villamor, Col. Juan Villamor, Don Escolastico Borbon, Don Juan Valera, the Bringas Family, Seares Family and several others.
In Dolores, the first adherents and founders were Don Rosalio Eduarte, Don Elias Balauro, Don Mariano Zapata, Don Nicomedes Guzman, Don Ambrosio Zapata, Don Pedro Balmaceda, Don Pedro Zapata, Don Antero Barbero , Don Pablo Turqueza, Don Ponciano Buenafe, Don Antonio Tubadeza, Don Mariano and Don Gregorio Taligdan, Don Estanislao Blanco, Don Vicente Tabaniag, Don Adriano Talledo, Don Fructuso Asencio, Don Leodegario Peralta, Don Dionisio Tordil and several others.
The First Priests and Parishes
The pioneer Parishes in Abra were in the old towns of Bangued, Dolores, La Paz, Lagangilang, Pidigan, and San Juan (formerly a barrio of Dolores).
The pioneer priests were Reb. Padres Benigno de Lara, Teodorico E. Pascual, Alipio Blanco y Velarde, Sinforoso Bonoan, Evaristo Clemente, Manuel Apostol and Honorato de Lara. In 1927, Bishop Alejandro Remollino y Ordoña succeeded to the Bishopric following the death of Msgr. Farolan.
From 1935 to 1956, the Diocese of Abra was made part of the Diocese of Ambos Ilocos and Abra, when Bishop Remollino was appointed to Cavite.
Gregorio Aglipay was an activist Roman Catholic priest from Ilocos Norte who was excommunicated by the Vatican for inciting rebellion within the Filipino clergy, despite his defence of some Spanish Catholic clergy from liberal-nationalist Filipino revolutionaries. During the brief interlude between independence from the Spanish and occupation by the United States, Isabelo de los Reyes (also known as Don Belong) and Aglipay acted to reform the Filipino Catholic clergy.
They founded the Philippine Independent Church in 1902. The new church rejected the spiritual authority of the Pope (then Pope Leo XIII) and abolished the celibacy requirement for priests, who were then allowed to marry. All of its clergy were former Catholic priests.
The church drew upon the Masonic Code for concepts of theology and worship. It was supported by Miguel Morayta, the Grand Master of the Spanish Orient Lodge of Freemasonry in Madrid. Aglipay was also a Mason.The historian John N. Schumacher contends that Morayta and other non-Filipino laymen who pushed Aglipay toward schism from the Catholic Church were motivated more by resentment of friars’ activities in the Philippines than nationalism.
Later the newly-independent Church reformed the Latin Tridentine liturgy, adopting the model of Anglican vernacular reform. The Eucharist had been said in Spanish (and sometimes Portuguese) since the earliest days of the Church. Visiting other churches while traveling abroad, Aglipay developed his theology, coming to reject the divinity of Jesus and the concept of the Trinity and becoming Unitarian.
Other Church officials refused to accept this revised theology. Aglipay’s unitarian and progressive theological ideas were evident in his novenary, Pagsisiyam sa Birhen sa Balintawak, 1925 and its English translation, Novenary of the Motherland (1926).
Aglipayan Church Trivia
Ferdinand Marcos – Born on September 11, 1917 in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte, was baptised into the Aglipayan or Philippine Independent Church.
Aglipayan Churches of Abra
There are five Aglipayan Churches in Abra. The first was built in the late 1800’s in La Paz, followed by the ones in Lagangilang, Dolores, Pidigan and San Juan.
There is a breakaway fragment of the Iglesia Filipina Independent ( IFI ) in San Juan, the Independent Church of Filipino Christians ( ICFC ).
Not much information is available online or from local people i have talked to about the Aglipayan churches of Abra. Please comment below, email or message on Facebook if you can help add anything of interest such as old photographs, church records, church history and other stories.
Parish of Nuestra Senora de La Paz, La Paz, Abra
The church situated in Poblacion La Paz was built sometime before 1889, is older than the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, and was the first Aglipayan, Iglesia Filipina Independente Church in Abra.
According to its oldest baptismal record, the Church in La Paz was already in existence as early as 1889 under the name “Iglesia Catolica Apostolica Filipina”.
In 1902 the La Paz Parish became one of the founding members of the newly founded Iglesia Filipina Independiente during the imcumbency of Ftr Benigno de Lara.
The text “Iglesia Catolica Apostolica Filipina” is carved in the stone archway of the entrance, but was sadly cement covered over for some reason in the year 2000, the same year that the church was painted blue.
Built of red brick the structure has stood the test of time but the bell tower shows some cracks and is in need of restoration.
There were originally three bells donated by the Adres family. One of which is still used today. A second bell was damaged and is kept in the church office, while the third bells whereabouts is currently unknown.
The church is one of two Abrenian IFI churches to have been added to the NCCA MAPAMANA list but is still not on the list of Philippine Registry of Cultural Properties.
1930s Photos Courtesy of Maam Marie Nerie Taclawan via
Mc Greggy Cabilan Cabay
Saint Isidore the Farmer – Lagangilang
What must have once been an impressive building when first built at the beginning of the 1900s, the church has fallen into a state of bad repair. Built from river stones, pebbles and red brick with a stand alone bell tower to one side, the remains of which can still be seen, the church building bears little resemblance to the original it once was. Now a patchwork of modern hollow blocks, river stones and concrete, it is a pity that funds could not be found to better preserve this Heritage church.
A bell tower built with hollow blocks has been erected at the front and seems out of place. There are two bells but access to them is difficult to check for inscriptions, dates etc.
San Isidore the Farmer church is situated down a side street behind the Municipal building in Lagangilang.
Lagangilang Aglipayan church has been added to the NCCA MAPAMANA list but has still not on the list of Philippine Registry of Cultural Properties.
The church records were destroyed in a fire a few years ago, so if anyone can help with any further information and old photos it will be appreciated.
We still need more information about this church. Can you help?
Our Lady of Sorrow, Dolores, Abra
A plain looking building, the church is situated in Poblacion Dolores. There is a stand alone bell tower, constructed in February 1976, to one side with three bells donated by local families. The top bell has somehow been damaged, the lower bell was, according to its inscription, donated by Romana Balaoro in December 1930.
St.Isidore the Farmer, Badas, San Juan
This small church is situated at the entrance to Brgy Badas, San Juan, Abra from Dolores end.
Iglesia Filipina Independiente San Juan Abra on Facebook
We still need more information on this church.
Mission Parish of Immaculate Concepcion,
Date founded unknown. A small church building in the centre of Pidigan and originally built from red bricks.
There are Baptismal records dating from 1939. There is one bell hanging outside at the side.
More information needed on this church please.
Independent Church of Filipino Christians | Aglipay Memorial Church
An IFI breakaway church. No history of the church or the building was known by local people living near the church.
Click Open to Find Out How to travel to Abra
How to travel to Abra from Manila
- From Metro Manila, there are three bus companies operating along the Manila to Bangued route.
Partas Bus Company, Viron Transit and Dominion Bus Lines.
- Journey time is around 10 hours
- Fare at time of writing is P600
Bus Companies that link Bangued with other destinations are
Bangued to Manila, Baguio – Partas Bus Company
Bangued to Manila, Baguio – Dominion Bus Lines
Bangued to Manila, Baguio – Philippine Rabbit
Bangued to Baguio – Sambrano Bus Lines
Bangued to Manila – Viron Transit
Bangued to Vigan, Tuguegarao – Esonice Bus Lines
Bangued to Baguio, Vigan, Laoag – BBL Transit
There are no airports in Abra. The closest airport is Laoag, three hours away by car.
- Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have daily flights to Laoag.
- From Laoag take a bus to Vigan and change there for a bus to Bangued
- Or take any bus that is heading south and alight at Narvacan for bus and jeepney connections to Bangued
Aglipayan Churches of Abra
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