The LORD sits enthroned over the flood; the LORD is enthroned as King forever.
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.
– Psalm 29: 10-11
The kind of peace and solitude offered at abbeys like the ones at Melrose and Dryburgh is one most of us can only dream about today. If we do get a time to reflect, it is usually short-lived and sandwiched between periods of business, stress, and hurry. Imagine a lifestyle that made self-reflection and meditation an integral part of daily life. Imagine a lifestyle free from distracting screens, wires, plugs, cell phones, and TVs. Imagine never having to buy food from a supermarket. This is the life of the monks of the abbey, dedicated wholly to God and His service.
The original church was built in the 12th century but largely destroyed by English armies invading Scotland during and after the Wars of Independence in the 14th century. The abbey was rebuilt over the old one on a bigger scale. The nave was the center of the monastery, where worship, services, and choir performances took place. Several aisle chapels lined the sides of the nave, and two transepts on either side of the main altar housed additional altars for monks to offer up private prayers for the souls of their patrons. The chapter house was the main meeting place, where monks met daily to hear a chapter of the Rule of St. Benedict and discuss important business matters.
Outside, living quarters housed the monks. The cloister is a large, rectangular space within the abbey cultivated by monks as a garden. Depending on the abbey, you would also find a cemetery, tanning beds, a drainage system, and a commendator’s house.
It is hard to imagine how the abbey would have looked. If it is magnificent as a ruin, imagine what it would have looked like in its heyday. Artist conceptions found in books are a useful way to see how things would have appeared. Some abbeys play monastic chant music which emanates throughout the abbey, giving you an audible sense of what the monks would have heard centuries ago.
Something that sets Melrose Abbey apart from other abbeys is the fact that Robert the Bruce’s heart is buried here. Bruce was Scotland’s king following the Wars of Independence and the heroic struggles of William Wallace.
About a half hour’s journey from Melrose is Dryburgh. While Melrose Abbey now has a thriving town built up around it, Dryburgh sits largely secluded and is able to offer to visitors the same serenity it would have offered the contemplative life of a medieval monk. The abbey sits near the Tweed River, the richest river in the Scottish borders. The order who settled in this idyllic spot in 1150 came from Northumberland at the invitation of Hugh de Moreville, the king’s constable. Like other abbeys, it too suffered destruction from marauding English armies, fires, and a brutal attack in 1544 from which the monastery never recovered. Today, it is in the care of Historic Scotland. Thousands of visitors each year come to marvel at its romantic ruins and surrounding beauty.
Dryburgh Abbey is also the final resting place of Sir Walter Scott and his wife. Scott is author of such classic novels as Ivanhoe, Waverley, Rob Roy, and The Bride of Lammermoor. Scott, whose home is in nearby Abbotsford, had great influence on literature, establishing the historical genre of novel. His novels were popular and often sold out within a few weeks of being released.
For a time of quite reflection and a glimpse into the colorful history of Scotland and its people, the abbeys of Scotland are unparalleled.


ADULT BIBLE FELLOWSHIP
Sundays | 9:30 - 10:30 AM
- meeting in the Media Center, led by Al Cornelius
- meeting in the Carlson Family Center, led by Jessi Rowland
- meeting in the Office Conference Room, led by Dale Heminger & Pastor Justin
For those of you who did not have the opportunity to attend the Life Group Launch, here are a few of the bullet points:
- Life Groups will be all about Growing in our worship, walk and witness. We will be learning about how to pray deeper (worship) how to be a disciple (walk) and how to serve and share our faith (witness).
- Life groups will help us develop deeper community.
- Life Groups are more than a meeting twice a month...It’s doing LIFE together.
- Life groups will incorporate regular opportunities for outreach to our community.
- Life groups will be led by facilitators who will get ongoing training and encouragement to fill their roles with excellence.
If you are not part of a regular Life Group, and are interested in checking it out, please contact Tim, Quinn, director of Worship/Small Groups.
60 NORTH SENIOR mINISTRY
FOR ADULTS 60+
- Questions, see Dale or Marlene Heminger.
Current Men's Ministries
Every Wednesday | 9 AM to 12 PM
- For all men interested in helping do small projects around the church.
Men's Bible Study - resuming in September
2nd & 4th Tuesdays | 7:00 PM
- For all men.
MEN'S BREAKFAST - Resuming in september
1st Saturday of every month | 8:00 AM | New Beginnings Restaurant (5200 Northland Dr NE)
- Men, this is your opportunity to join us for breakfast, fellowship, and prayer.
- Order breakfast on your own and don’t forget to invite a friend.
Current women's ministries
Keep watch as more events/activities are added.
Mother/Daughter Banquet "When Life Gives You Lemons..."
5:30 PM - Fellowship & Appetizers | 6:00 PM – Dinner
We will be honoring Mothers, Daughters, Mentors and every woman as a Daughter of Christ. Bring a woman who inspires you to make lemonade out of life’s lemons.
Septeber 29 - October 1
Women's Fall Retreat at Grace Adventure in Mears MI
Get pampered both physically and spiritually in this unique weekend experience designed just for women. At Women’s Retreat, you will have a weekend away with new and old friends sharing times of fellowship, reflection, and laughter while enjoying the beautiful fall colors of Silver Lake.
- Cost: $155 ($25 deposit due at time of registration)
- Activities available are horseback riding, massages, crafts, Rockwall, ropes course, zipline, pamper room, trap shooting, archery/rifle range, Axe throwing, kayaking/canoeing, wagon rides.
- Questions/availability contact Denise Danigelis.
Brought to you by RBC Women's Ministries
Bible study fellowship
We are excited to again host the Bible Study Fellowship Bible Study for women, and it's absolutely FREE, but registration is required. [ click HERE for the link]
Meeting every Thursday beginning 9/15 | 9:10 AM at RBC.
BSF believes that people discover their true purpose and identity by knowing God through His Word. That is why they offer free, in-depth Bible studies in community for people of all ages around the world.
- Women today face a multitude of challenges, like struggles with insecurity, broken relationships, guilt, overwork or loneliness. Countless women have found peace, comfort, hope, security and answers to life's big questions by exploring God's Word. As a group member, you will personally study Scripture and answer questions each day. Once a week, you will meet for a small-group discussion of the lesson, hear from a teaching leader how the truths of Scripture can be applied to daily life and receive comprehensive notes on the Scripture passages you studied.
Ladies with preschool children are not left out. A preschool program for children ages 0-6 is available.
- BSF's Preschool Program gives children a biblical foundation upon which to build a love for God and spiritual matters. Loving, well-trained and committed leaders teach little ones about God and the Bible in age-appropriate ways. The leaders pray for the children and encourage them to continue learning with their registered adult throughout the week. (The preschoolers' curriculum is based on the lessons the adults’ study to help foster spiritual conversations at home.) The children also learn other important life skills, such as how to obey instructions, cooperate, sit and listen — all taught in an atmosphere of love.
This year's study is People of the Promise: Kingdom Divided
- Good and evil kings. Passionate prophets. Prophecies that shape our modern age.
- The Old Testament is full of theologically rich books that both recount and shape history. They also set the stage for the long-awaited Messiah, containing more than 300 prophecies covering His birth, life, death, and resurrection.
- People of the Promise: Kingdom Divided will unpack a fascinating period in Israel’s history across 15 books, from its split into two nations, through dozens of kings and prophets and ultimately to the heartbreaking exile into Babylon.


Mission & Beliefs
You Matter to God.
We are passionate about the local church, and are on mission to see God’s kingdom established across the earth.
Education is an integral part of people’s lives and therefore, is an imprescriptible part of our Church and community.
The gospel of Jesus Christ in action
Senior Pastors of Hallelujah Church
“The church is the body of Christ on earth, empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue the task of reaching the lost and discipling the saved, helping them become fully devoted followers of Christ.” – Ephesians 4:1-16
A God-Entranced Vision of All Things
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about what Jesus is doing in our world, and how we outwork
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A Support Group for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities – God is love! He watches over the weak and the oppressed. The Bible says, “God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong” (1 Cor. 1:27). Through the New Immigrant Services Department of Pui Tak Center, we came in contact with many families of children with developmental disabilities. We realized the challenges these immigrant families encounter every day due to language barriers as well as the predicament of raising their children. These families are marginalized by society through the judgmental and discriminatory attitudes toward them. Hence, in November 2011, Pui Tak Center established a support group for the families. We chose the name “1 Corinthians 1:27” to signify our goals:
We serve families of children with developmental disabilities, including autism, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities etc.
Children with disabilities and their siblings are welcome! Childcare is provided and held concurrently with the parents meeting. For more information, contact Wai Yi Louie at firstname.lastname@example.org or 312.328.1188 x218.


A massive fire in April 2019 devastated the cathedral of Notre Dame, one of the architectural treasures of the world. Michel Picaud, President of the Friends of Notre Dame de Paris, will speak of his organization's efforts to rebuild the cathedral. The talk is presented by the Winchester Jumelage Association with support from the Winchester Cultural Council.
Date: Friday September 17 at 7 p.m.
Location: Griffin Museum of Photography, 67 Shore Rd., Winchester
Free admission; free-will donations will be accepted towards the restoration work. Please register in advance via email to ACLanigan@gmail.com.


B I B L E S T U D Y
O U T L I N E S
H O M E P A G E
Rev. Ronald C. Purkey, an ordained Baptist minister, claims no originality for the contents
of these Bible study outlines. However, every Bible study posted on this website has been
taught by Rev. Purkey. To see more Bible study outlines go to the Archives Page:
JESUS OVERPOWERS LEGION
March 26, 2023
BACKGROUND: What does the Bible say about demons?
Now let me say some things about this matter of demon possession:
1. Not only Mark but all of the Scriptures bear definite witness to the reality of demons.
For those who accept the authority of Scripture, there must be an acceptance of the reality of demons.
2. They were especially evident during the ministry of Jesus but, of course, were not confined to that period.
By the way, we’re living in a day right now when there is a resurgence and a manifestation of demonism again. Many illustrations of this could be given.
3. For some strange reason they seek to indwell mankind.
They seek to manifest their evil nature through human beings. They are extremely restless. This description is clear. “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out” (Luke 11:24). Is this not the characteristic of all evil, even evil men? There is the restlessness of seeking expression of the evil nature.
Good spirits never seek to take possession of men. The Holy Spirit is the one exception, and He only indwells believers. But as truly as He indwells believers so demons can possess the unsaved. Demons cannot possess the saved. We are told that greater is He that is in us (the Holy Spirit) than he that is in the world (Satan) (1
4. In this incident the demons would rather go into a herd of swine than the abyss.
That is interesting to note.
5. They should be called demons and not devils. There is only one Devil (Satan).
Our translation is faulty here. They are called “unclean spirits” because of their nature.
6. Scripture does not give us the origin of them.
Anything I would say today would be highly speculative.
7. There seems to be many of them.
8. They are under the control of Satan.
Now I said I would not speculate, but here I go. I’m of the opinion that when Satan fell, these were the angels that followed him. Now having said that, let’s not say any more.
9. Their purpose is the final undoing of mankind.
They are certainly working on Satan’s program.
10. There are present-day examples of demon possession.
We have Satan worship right in our own neighborhoods, and there are a lot of college students and professors who are engaged in it. They say they find reality in it. I think they do, by the way. I think that Satan is prepared to give reality to those who worship him. The all-important question is: what kind of reality do they find?
11. The Lord Jesus Christ has power over demons.
That, I think, is the great lesson for us to learn. There is no reason for any believer to be afraid of demons or to adopt some superstition or spooky notion concerning them. If you feel that you are bothered with them, then just ask the Lord Jesus to deliver you. They have been cast out in His name, and it is a lack of faith in the Lord Jesus to walk in fear of them today. If you feel that they can control you in any way, or possess you, or direct you, then you need counseling. Remember that the Lord Jesus Christ has power over demons.
– Adapted from “Thru the Bible With J. Vernon McGee,” Gospel of Mark, chapter 5.
INTRODUCTION: American writer Mark Twain was known for his wit and charm. On a trip to Europe, he was invited to dinner with a head of state. When his daughter learned of the invitation, she said, "Daddy, you know every big person there is to know except God." Sadly, that was true, because Mark Twain was an unbelieving skeptic.
That daughter's comment should cause us to ask ourselves if we know God. We may be blessed with life-enriching friendships, acquainted with a wide circle of important people, but do we know God? And is our knowledge of Him more than second-hand information or speculation, the things we might read in books?
Jesus wanted His disciples to have an intimate knowledge of God. He prayed, "This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent" (John 17:3). This knowledge is intensely personal, and is gained only through a deep, prolonged friendship. Indeed, the knowledge referred to in this text and elsewhere in Scripture is compared with the intimacy of husband and wife as they become one (Genesis 4:1).
I. A DEMON-POSSESSED
A. Jesus Went To The Land Of Gadara. (Mark 5:1)
And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. (Mark 5:1)
The Lord Jesus had taught on the other side and had given them parables. He was exhausted and so had crossed the sea. The Gadarenes were the inhabitants of Gadara, and this is the land that was given to the tribe of Gad on the east side of the Jordan River, Remember, Gad chose the wrong side of Jordan. They were the ones who stayed on the east side, and now we find them in the pig business. When you start away from God, you just keep going away from Him.
B. Immediately A Maniac Met The Lord. (Mark 5:2)
And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit. (Mark 5:2)
He is “a man,” a human being. Notice that first of all and write it down. He is in a desperate condition, but he is still a man. That is what the Lord Jesus saw -- a man. In spite of his condition, the Lord saw the man. His conduct suggests that the man was a maniac. Now notice what it says about him.
C. Jesus Saw His Wretched Condition. (Mark 5:3-5)
Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. (Mark 5:3–5)
1. This is a grim case of a man possessed with an unclean spirit.
He dwelt, which means he settled down, among the tombs. This is where he lived; this was his ghetto. The tombs were unclean places. The dead were there, and sometimes the bodies were exposed. He no longer enjoyed the society of normal men but he lived among the dead.
2. We find from Matthew that there was another man, but Mark and Luke center on this one.
We gather that the other man was no companion to this man, nor, of course, were the dead any company to him. He was alone. Yet we are told that he possessed superhuman power; so, they could not bind him. Just because a man demonstrates power which is supernatural does not prove that God gave it to him. This case is a typical example. He was a wild man; no one could confine him. He was miserable. He suffered great physical harm which he inflicted on himself. He is a creature of sorrow and pity, and on the human plane he is a hopeless case. He is incoherent and crying out. What an awful condition! And all due to demon possession!
D. The Man Cried Out To Jesus. (Mark 5:6-8)
But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. (Mark 5:6–8)
It was the man who worshiped Jesus Christ, not the demon. He was afraid of Jesus. He suffered from what I could be called “spiritual schizophrenia,” a split personality. Sometimes it is the man speaking and sometimes it is the demon speaking. In verse 7 it literally says, “What is there to thee and me?” That is, “What have we in common?” This poor man was possessed by demons!
E. The Demons Overwhelm The Man. (Mark 5:9)
And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. (Mark 5:9)
The answer of this man is baffling but it’s not bad grammar. He says, “My name is ….” indicating that the man was trying to speak, but then the demons take over and they say, “We are many.”
F. Jesus Commanded The Demons To Leave The Man. (Mark 5:10-13)
And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. (Mark 5:10–13)
1. There is a tremendous occurrence presented to us here.
The demons made a very peculiar request. They preferred swine to the abyss. The permission of Jesus here has been severely criticized by men who are liberal in their theology. Their objection has been that He would not destroy the swine, as the “gentle Jesus” would not do things like that. That is nonsense, of course.
2. The Lord Jesus could have sent the demons anywhere; but when He chose to send them into the pigs, He accomplished several purposes.
(1) Christ demonstrated that the demons were real and that the deliverance was genuine.
(2) Christ gave vivid proof that Satan is a destroyer (Rev. 9:11;
INSIGHT: If you surrender your life to Satan and sin, you end up living and dying like an animal. What a warning this was to those who saw it; but apparently, they did not take it to heart, for they asked Jesus to depart from them. As the Creator, Jesus Christ owns all things (Psalm 50:10) and can dispose of them as He sees fit.
(3) The destruction of the pigs revealed the spiritual condition of the people of that district.
They would rather have their swine than have Jesus Christ as their Savior! Money was more important than the healing of this man or the salvation of their own souls.
WHAT IS YOUR NAME?
Read: Mark 5:6-9
“Then [Jesus] asked him, ‘What is your name?’ And he answered, saying, ‘My name is Legion; for we are many.’” (Mark 5:9)
The army of the Roman Empire was nothing if not organized. The largest division was a legion, consisting of 6,000 soldiers. Legions were divided into ten cohorts (600 soldiers each), and each cohort was divided into six centuries (100 soldiers each).
In the fifth chapter of Mark, we are introduced to the Gadarene demoniac. Upon His arrival in the country of the Gadarenes, Jesus was approached by this deranged man, who cried out, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?” (Mark 5:7) Jesus responded with a single command for the “unclean spirit” to come out of the man. And then Jesus asked him his name. The man replied, “My name is Legion; for we are many.” That didn’t mean the man was possessed by 6,000 demons; it only meant that there were “many” demons in him, not just one. Once Jesus ordered the demons to leave the man, they did, and he was immediately restored to his right mind—a miracle of restoration.
The use of the military term “Legion” was appropriate for this man during his torment, for it represented the multitude of demons that plagued him until he met Jesus and he was healed. When we meet Christ, we are set free from the chains that once kept us captive to our sin as well.
“We can call out even to the demons in hell, ‘Which of you is going to condemn me?’ And there will be NO answer.” -- John R. W. Stott
-- Adapted from a devotional by David Jeremiah, “Turning Point,” September 5, 2018
II. A BELIEVER IS SENT OUT. (Mark 5:18-20)
“And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. 19 Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. 20 And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel. (Mark 5:18-20)
A. The Possessed Man Was A Changed Man; He Was Now A Believer.
And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel. (Mark 5:18-20)
B. The Former Possessed Man Was Now A Gospel Witness.
This healed men so appreciated what Jesus had done for him that he wanted to go with Him and serve Him, but Jesus sent him home to bear witness to the Gentiles in that area. It is interesting that Jesus answered the requests of the demons and of the citizens, but He did not agree to the request of the man who wanted to be His disciple. This says to us, before you go out to serve Jesus elsewhere, be sure you have served Him faithfully at home (Mark 5:19-20).
TELL YOUR STORY
An organizational consultant in New York says that his graduate students typically recall only 5 percent of the main ideas in a presentation of graphs and charts, while they generally remember half of the stories told in the same presentation. There is a growing consensus among communication experts about the power of the personal touch in relating an experience. While facts and figures often put listeners to sleep, an illustration from real life can motivate them to action. Author Annette Simmons says, “The missing ingredient in most failed communication is humanity.”
Knowledge and eloquence are often over rated in the process of communicating the good news of Jesus Christ. Never underestimate the power of what God has done for you, and don’t be afraid to tell your story to others. – Adapted from a devotional by David C. McCasland, “Our Daily Bread,” August 24, 2009
CONCLUSION: What do we learn when we read Mark chapter 5?
First, We Learn That Jesus Christ Helped A Demoniac (Mark 5:1–20).
Jesus went through a storm to get to two demoniacs (Matthew 8:28) who needed his help. The demons begged not to be sent to the pit (verse 10), the citizens begged Jesus to leave (verse 17), and one healed man begged to be allowed to go with Jesus (verse 18). The citizens were concerned more with financial profit than with spiritual benefit. Imagine asking Jesus to leave you!
Secondly, We Learn That We Can Come To Jesus Christ (Mark 5:21–34).
All kinds of people came to the feet of Jesus. A well-known synagogue leader and an anonymous sick woman could find help there. Perhaps the woman’s faith was a bit superstitious, but the Lord still honored it. If you cannot grasp His hand, touch the hem of His garment. The first step of faith, no matter how weak, will lead to greater blessings.
Thirdly, We Learn That Jesus Christ Will Go With Us (Mark 5:35–43).
No situation is so desperate that Jesus cannot work. Disease, delays, and even death are under His control. Jesus goes with you to the place of disappointment and sorrow and meets your needs. No matter how depressing your situation may appear, “Do not be afraid; only believe” (verse 36). The Savior is working for you.
INSIGHT: Evidence of Jesus Christ’s mastery over nature (Mark 4:35-41) was followed by an incident which demonstrated His mastery over supernatural forces. In the non-Jewish district of Gadara Jesus expelled demons from a wild man and sent them into a herd of pigs.
Only Jesus' touch could deliver the demon-possessed man from his tormented existence and make him whole again. Only God's touch can heal you as well and make you whole again.
THOUGH TO REMEMBER: “Sharing the gospel is one person telling another person good news.”
REFERENCES: References used in these Bible studies are the Moody Bible Commentary, J. Vernon McGee’s Thru the Bible Commentary: (www.ttb.org), the Scofield Study Bible, the Believer’s Bible Commentary, Dr. Charles J. Woodbridge Bible Outlines, Dr. Lee Roberson’s Sermons, Dr. Charles Stanley: (http://www.intouch.org/), Don Robinson’s Bible Outlines, Women’s Study Bible, The Bible Reader’s Companion Ed. 3, The Nelson Study Bible: New King James Version, Dr. Tony Evans (https://tonyevans.org/), KJV Bible Commentary, Wiersbe’s Expository Outlines of the New Testament ed. 4, Dr. David Jeremiah: (http://www.davidjeremiah.org/site/), Dr. Cliff Robinson’s Bible Outlines, Dr. Robert Jeffress’ Pathway to Victory (https://ptv.org/), Wiersbe’s Expository Outlines of the Old Testament, Dr. Alan Carr’s The Sermon Notebook (www.sermonnotebook.org), With the Word Bible Commentary, Wiersbe’s “Be” Series: Old & New Testaments, Radio Bible Class Ministries (http://rbc.org/), selected illustrations and other references.
E-Mail: Rev. Ronald Purkey
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BY TOM KITSON
A SMALL but historic church in the heart of Northbridge has struck a number of roadblocks in its plans for future development.
St John’s Lutheran Church is the biggest Lutheran church in the state; however, it is struggling to fund and facilitate a plan to replace the current church hall with a new multi-story building for the St John’s congregation itself, as well as servicing the wider Lutheran community of WA.
The potential outcomes of the project include church plantings and support for struggling congregations, youth ministry development, seniors housing, outreach to Central TAFE (located across the road from the church) and other groups, subsidised services to disadvantaged people, a full-time District President and an investment fund for income generation.
Despite years of fundraising, donations, prayers and hard work, the church currently cannot move any further with planned redevelopments.
Searching for tenants
Suitable tenants have not been found for the proposed building, which the East Perth Redevelopment Authority needs in order to approve the reconstruction of the site.
Despite being granted numerous extensions to deadlines and fundraising diligently, the church hasn’t been able to generate enough commitment to the project.
Congregation Chairperson, musician and long-time member Jon Offsanker said the project has stalled and all they can do is hope for tenants to commit.
He said the global financial crisis was a major blow to the project in 2008, when the search for tenants began.
“Perth’s vacancy rate was at about one per cent,” he said.
“If you wanted to rent a property at that time, you wouldn’t be able to find one.”
Now the risk of beginning construction is very high – if tenants don’t commit the project will have to be paid off by St John’s alone.
The church originally looked to the nearby Art Gallery for tenants, as well as Central TAFE and others.
Now that the vacancy rate is back up, there is more hope for St John’s.
Miners may be key to development
“We are hoping the next mining boom may help,” Mr Offsanker said.
“There is the possibility that BHP or other companies may be interested, with BHP’s global headquarters now located in Perth.”
The church receives its funding mostly from weekly offerings at its services and donations from members, so money is hard to come by.
Mr Offsanker said: “$5000 per week is needed to run the church alone.
“That means each man, woman and child attending on Sundays needs to give $30 – a very big ask.”
The church runs three services over the weekend in English, as well as three Sunday afternoon services in Mandarin, Slovak and German.
There are only about 250 regular attendees over the three English services.
In January this year, the official district fundraising target was $2.3 million, with only $1.3m raised. The official property security target was $3.5m, with the $3.2m raised just falling short.
St John’s is the only Lutheran church in WA with two pastors, and Mr Offsanker said this and other factors can make other churches jealous.
Embattled community survived arson attacks
“There is a fair element of St John’s versus the rest of the world,” he said.
“St John’s is asked to give the biggest contribution to the district budget because other congregations are struggling.
“It’s difficult to ask more of people in the community who have already contributed from their own short supply.”
The project has received strong backing from the congregation and the wider Lutheran community in WA.
“I can see untold blessings flowing to us, our community, our District, and into our mission endeavours, through this courageous step of faith – faith for the future,” St John’s Pastor Greg Pfeiffer said.
“Within the next 15 years, the whole WA Lutheran community will gain ongoing income to fund extensive and bold local mission initiatives that reach more Western Australians with the gospel of Jesus,” said Bunbury Pastor Adrian Kitson.
Mr Offsanker said the firm belief of the church is that “this is God’s project”.
He said to have the building would enable greater avenues for ministry, through a focal point the likes of which the church in WA has never had.
“The project still needs to be supported because the possibilities are huge for our church,” Mr Offsanker said.
“We thank God for everyone involved and all their gifts they bring to the table.”
The church was founded in 1901 as the first Lutheran Church in Western Australia and became a pioneer of the state’s Lutheran community.
In the 1980s the old church hall was burnt down by arsonists, one of St John’s many significant past struggles.
The unwavering legacy of St John’s is summed up in its mission statement: “To bring the Good News of God’s love in Jesus Christ to all people.”


I love reading everyone else's blogs, but I hate (for some reason) to update mine :) I just wanted to post a quick note and say Merry Christmas to everyone :) I love this time of the year. It's great to sit back and reflect on everything that has happened in the last year. So to sum this year all up in one word is...Gratitude.
Grateful for the love and support throughout my pregnancy. Grateful for all the wonderful thoughts and prayers for sweet little Grant. Grateful for an amazing husband who helps me become a better person everyday. Grateful for Grant and the opportunity to be a mom to a beautiful and healthy little angel. Grateful most of all for the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ and the sacrifice he made so I can be with my sweet little family for forever :) I hope this Christmas season brings joy and love for everyone- Love Amy
P.s. I added some adorable pictures that Angie Berrio took of Grant at 5 1/2 weeks. They are awesome...Thanks Angie!!


Convening Small Groups, & the ‘See Judge Act’ Method.
A workshop on training convenors in leading small groups of adults in parish and other church settings.
When: Saturday 3rd March, 10 am – 3 pm.
Where: St Augustine’s Church Hall, Bourke Street Melbourne.
Cost: Donation for coffee; bring own lunch or buy at a nearby café.
Introduction. 10-11 am.
Our dreams for the church, and how to translate them into action.
Meeting Processes. 11.15 am – 12.30 pm
Including size of groups, writing an Inquiry, possibilities of blending with other ‘small group’ methods, etc.
Starting Small Groups. 1.30 – 3.00 pm
Including the role of convenor, recruiting new members, support of leaders, issues to engage, etc.


McDonough Honors Local Reverend Nancy A. Rakoczy
Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) recently honored Rev. Nancy A. Rakoczy with an official Assembly Citation on the occasion of her installation as pastor of Saint John Lutheran Church in Bellmore.
Rev. Rakoczy is a tremendous person with deep faith and conviction, and I was proud to recognize and honor her achievements with this new opportunity at Sain John Lutheran Church, McDonough said. Saint Johns is a staple of our community with a devoted and caring congregation. I am confident that Rev. Rakoczy will be a great leader and continue to help so many here on Long Island.


On September 21, 2014 we had Henry dedicated at church. Here are a few pictures from during the service. The second one is my favorite. Our Pastor just finished making a cross on Henry's forehead and smiled at him, Henry gave the biggest grin in return that the entire congregation was able to see from the stage. He is such a ham! I am thankful Josh's parents were able to join us, my mom and Billy attended and we also had many friends who were able to join us for service. Henry, Lillian and Claire all were fantastic being on stage in front of everyone and very well behaved.
Cottage Projects - Update
1 day ago


The photos below are taken at the official site of the Empty Garden Tomb of Jesus in Jerusalem where thousands of tourists and pilgrims visit each year.
Although we cannot be certain that this is the actual site where Jesus the Messiah was buried, people of faith can be certain of the following as recorded in the Holy Scriptures:
1. Jesus was the Passover Lamb who was slain before the foundation of the world, and who takes away the sin of all who place their trust in Him. Because of His sacrifice on our behalf, we can now, by faith, enter into the forgiveness of our sins and peace with Jehovah God, our heavenly Father.
2. After being crucified on the cross, Jesus was buried in a tomb. A great rock was rolled over the entrance and guarded by soldiers so that no one could steal His body.
3. As He had predicted, Jesus rose from the dead on the third day. Angels miraculously appeared and rolled away the massive rock from covering the entrance. When the disciples of Jesus showed up on the first day of the week (Sunday), they found the tomb empty. Angels appeared to them and reassured them that Jesus had indeed risen from the dead and would soon meet with them in Jerusalem.
4. Afterward, Jesus appeared to them as the angels had said. He gave His disciples encouragement and instructions and miraculously ascended unto heaven to sit at the right hand of God the Father until He returns again.
May you and yours have a blessed Easter holiday.
– Dr. L. Joseph, CPC
“On Sunday morning, the first day of the week, some of the women went to look at the tomb. They found it empty, with the stone rolled away…Trying to touch Jesus, Mary Magdalene reached out for him. Jesus reproached her: Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” – John 20:1-17


Want to join us in our mission of reaching people with the life-giving message of Jesus? Your generosity enables us to help more and more people experience a life-changing relationship with Him. We are truly grateful for your donation and hope the convenience and simplicity of online giving will be helpful to you.
Financial giving can be divided into two categories: tithes and offerings. The Bible teaches us that we worship the Lord with our tithe, which is ten percent of our income contributed to the church on a regular basis. When we feel called to give over and above our tithe, we do so as an offering.
Text to Give
Text the AMOUNT you would like to give (ex. $350) to 830-201-3005. You will receive a text back with a link to complete the quick registration process by entering your credit or debit card information. You only need to enter the information once. You can then choose to give a one time donation or set up recurring giving. It is quick, easy, and uses industry leading security to protect your personal information. Your donation is never charged to your phone bill.


Offering food and household necessities to qualified persons in the ELANCO school district.
We offer a broad range of assistance and services through ESSN or one of our network partners.
Want to help ESSN? We have opportunities for you to help and support our community!
Happy New Year!
Welcome to 2017! We continue to work through the many details of the merge. The ESSN office does not have a move date yet but I wanted to share with you what I know.
The ESSN office continues to receive referrals and requests for assistance. People may call or come to our office until the move date is announced (hopefully end of January). Our phone number will remain the same. 717-354-3776. People can still call the office on Mondays to register for the food pantry. Effective December 30 all monetary donations can be made out to Cross Connection Ministries and sent to P.O. Box 154, New Holland, PA 17557.
Thank you very much for your continued support and understanding as we walk through this process. I ask for your continued prayers as we seek to do His will and honor Him every step of the way! I look forward to seeing you at the banquet Tuesday, March 28, 2017!
NORTHEASTERN LANCASTER COUNTY FOOD BANK
105 WEST MAIN ST, TERRE HILL
(across from Post Office)
NEW CHANGES FOR 2017!
Our food bank will be open the 3rd Thursday of each month, starting 1/17/17. You will be able to select items from our pantry, based on your family size.
If your last name begins with a-m, please come between 4-5pm.
If your last name begins with n-z, please come between 5-6pm.
The entrance is in the basement, behind the church. There is plenty of parking. please bring your id.
Our phone number is: 717-715-4628. Please call by Tuesday noon to let us know you will be coming.
We look forward to meeting you!
Thank You Community!
Blessings and Merry Christmas from the staff, volunteers and board of ESSN!
Thank you for your faithfulness in supporting ELANCO Social Services Network in 2016.
We are excited that ELANCO Social Services Network will merge with Cross Connection Ministries in January 2017.
We will be CrossNet Ministries. Our mission will be to offer help and hope in the name of Jesus Christ by empowering people in the Elanco Community. CrossNet Ministries’ five core values are Gospel, Serving, Integrity, Partnering and Empowering. All of the programs, staff, efforts, and services of both ministries will continue to operate as before but with a more efficient administrative structure. Meredith Dahl will be the Executive Director and Joan Yunginger will be the Social Services Director.


This is KWXC 88.9 FM, Christian Talk Radio, located at 69601 E.290 Rd. in Grove, Oklahoma.
KWXC 88.9 FM is a non-profit, listener supported radio station.Solid biblical teaching is our main focus here at KWXC. You’ll find a number of preachers and programs that will help you grow spiritually stronger. Check out our live show each weekday at noon. Our guest speakers include:
Tuesday: Word of Wisdom – Pastor Larry Woodie
Saturday: The Persecuted Church
Only Tuesday’s and Saturday’s have live programming now.
Tune in and listen to KWXC 88.9 FM, your Christian talk radio station!
FM RADIO PROFILEView Public File
KWXC GROVE, OK
Facility ID 90108
FM Radio Information
Facility Id: 90108
Community of License: GROVE, OK
Service: FM Station
Licensee: GROVE BROADCASTING INC.
Licensee Address: 69601 EAST 290 ROAD, GROVE, OK 74344
Main Studio Address: 69601 E. 290 Rd., Grove, OK 74344
Phone: (918) 854-3523
General Resources: The Public and Broadcasting Manual


When Gus first died, I wanted to stay at home all the time. The reason was simple. I didn’t have the emotional bandwidth to be sweet when others said or did annoying things, so I stayed to myself.
There are people I encounter who love me very much but aren’t the best at wisely handling situations of loss or grief. They feel the need to try to explain to me why God took Gus to heaven when He did and give me a bunch of theological mumbo jumbo. It is emotionally exhausting and it’s hard for me to be patient.
I am not craving theology right now.
I have more theological education than the majority of people I talk to, and no matter how much theology has been pumped into this brain of mine it’s not going to make me miss Gus any less.
I go on social media and share my grief.
But I am not shaking my fist at God.
Gus and I received a miracle.
I am not angry, or bitter, or questioning God.
I never once asked God why Gus died.
I know why.
He was 92 years old.
His time on earth was done.
That’s why the Lord took him home.
But there are the “explainers” who feel they must give me a reason, as if that is going to comfort me.
It does the opposite.
I was super blessed this past week that during an entire week in Branson at the Assemblies of God Leadership Conference, not even ONE person tried to explain Gus’s death to me. I spoke with literally HUNDREDS of people. All but two or three people brought Gus up in conversation. Not ONE of them attempted to defend God unnecessarily. It was so beautiful to simply be loved on and have no one telling me how to feel.
Maybe it’s because I was with extremely seasoned leaders, all of whom should know by now that the more we know about God or anything, the more we realize how much we don’t know. No one can give God’s reasoning on Gus’s death. They aren’t God.
In a room where there were plenty of theologians, no one offered up any theology this week.
It was absolutely glorious.
Take note that when people are hurting, theology is not a healing balm.
All your explanations are not helpful, but your presence is enough.
Love is enough.
What a wonderful blessing from the Lord!
Yes, it was a wonderful week of being encouraged by my peers and leaders. I am grateful.
I lost my mom who was 89, she was independent and had all her facilities, she did suddenly due to heart failure. She was my best friend and I don’t think I will ever get over this, but I do know I have to find a way to cope! I have always had a hard time expressing my feelings, due to dyslexia.
But you hit it right on the nose! I just want your presence, you don’t even have to talk to me just sit with me in silence! Right now the hardest for me is sleeping, it’s like waking up to it all over again after only a few hours of sleep! Thank you for these Blogs, I am also doing grief share with my church. I love you Dianna and appreciate all you do at PF for us woman. God Bless 💜😂
I am so sorry for your loss, Jennifer. I know this was an unexplainable loss. I am glad this spoke to you in a deep way. Love you very much as well.
Thank you! I think it is hard for me to put into word how much you minister to me. It seems I have had pain for so long for various reasons, don’t get me wrong there is joy too but the pain seems to never go away. When I read your posts, blog and emails, I get so much encouragement. I am very grateful for you. In the most recent email, two of the quotes that you shared brought tears to my eyes. Sometimes I think you can see right into my heart. I really appreciate you and God uses what you say to minister to me. Thank you.


Tattoos are now popular than ever. They have become widely accepted in the Western culture, particularly among the youth. So, what does the Bible say about tattoos?
The Old Testament law in Leviticus 19:28 says, “You shall not make any gashes in your flesh for the dead or tattoo any marks upon you: I am the LORD.” This is the only instance where the Bible mentions tattoos. God gave this command to Israel which set them apart from their neighbors who market their skins with symbols or names of their gods.
A lot of people believe that this verse prohibits against tattoos only in the context of specific pagan practices. According to them, the tattoos referred in Leviticus are those that are for dead – using tattoos in an attempt to persuade the gods to help the dead in the afterlife. Others take the Leviticus verse to be a general prohibition against tattooing by the wording of the verse.
1 Peter 3:3–4: says, “Your beauty should not come from outward adornments, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” This verse is directed to Christian women and there is a principle which may concern, though indirectly, tattoos. According to this verse, one’s external appearance shouldn’t look be the main focus of your attention.
Many women focus on having fine clothes and elaborate hairstyle, and jewelry, but that isn’t where the true beauty lies. Likewise, body piercing and tattoos are an outward adornment and we should not give it more effort to the development of ‘inner self’, regardless of our gender.
Since the Bible does not directly forbid tattoos, we do know our body isn’t our own but God’s temple. The Bible has a high view of one’s body as God’s image, which should not be disfigured. So, before getting tattooed, we should ask ourselves how much we can modify our bodies to accomplish our desires while not disfiguring our bodies as God made them.
Furthermore, the Bible advises us to consider the motive of getting a tattoo. According to Ephesians 6:1-3; if it’s in rebellion to parents, it’s not acceptable. 1 Corinthians 10:31 teaches that while self-expressing yourself artistically is fine, your primary motive for anything that we do is to glorify God. This means that we should seek honor and draw attention to Him, not ourselves.
Proverbs 21:5 says that “The plans of the diligent one surely make for advantage, but everyone that is hasty surely heads for want.” Most people decide to get a tattoo hastily, yet it can pose a negative long-term impact on employment and relationships. Additionally, tattoos are painful and costly to remove.
Some desire to establish their independence or identity, while others get a tattoo to assert the ownership of their body. However, Romans 12:1 says, “Present your bodies a sacrifice living, holy, acceptable to God, a sacred service with your power of reason.” Use the power of reason to know why you want a tattoo. If it is because of peer pressure or wants to show off to your friends, know that your feelings can be less permanent than the tattoo.Read More →


Jan 17, 2017
St. Andrew's Cathedral in Victoria, British Columbia
Completed in 1892, St. Andrew's Cathedral is the Roman Catholic cathedral for the diocese of Victoria located in downtown Victoria, British Columbia. Borrowing from medieval European churches, St. Andrew's features double asymmetrical towers which are characteristic of the High Victorian Gothic Style. In 1990, noting its impressive architecture, St. Andrew's Cathedral was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.


Taken from Anglican Life magazine, Issue 7 of June/July 2010.
Dialogue: Anne Russell-Brighty
Most of us have probably heard of deacons – we’re just not sure what they do. As the Archdeacon of Deacons in our diocese, Anne Russell-Brighty has been leading a quiet revolution by breathing new life into our diaconate. Spanky Moore caught up with her to find out more.
So, what is a deacon, exactly? And why does the Church need them? Deacons are one of three ordained ministries of the Church. Ordained leadership roles have been part of the structure of the Church since earliest times, when the followers of Christ realised that some aspects of Church life were so important, there needed to be a deliberate process to appoint people to them. As deacons, our particular focus within Church life and mission is the responsibility to ensure that people in need are cared for with Christ-like compassion and humility.
For some reason the role of deacons in the church dropped off the radar – why the sudden resurgence now? A number of historical and political reasons within Church life in the latter half of the first millennium led to a hierarchical approach to ministry which devalued both lay and diaconal ministry. Guided by the Holy Spirit, the Church is gradually recognising the value of many aspects of early Church life which have been overlooked or diminished. We live in challenging times, and are learning to draw on some of the wisdom of the early Church as we seek to strengthen the Body of Christ for the future.
What drew you personally to the idea of being a deacon – especially since you were pretty much flying solo in New Zealand New Zealand when you started? Short answer – God. I realised that so many of my life experiences had been leading me in this direction and the Church recognised that, too. I have a passion to see people be all that God created them to be, each one uniquely valued and able to be fully in relationship with God and one another. Being a deacon has helped me direct that passion.
Our Diocese has been leading the charge in seeing the diaconate have a comeback in New Zealand – what sorts of things are our Deacons doing? Our diocese wasn’t the first to ordain deacons within the renewed vocation, but we have certainly been guided by bishops and diocesan staff to be very intentional about training, formation and support. This has resulted in a strong diaconate, currently with twenty-three men and women from many different life situations exercising this ministry. All of these deacons work within their local communities as well as their parishes, exercising ministries of compassionate care, social service, and leadership.
What do you love most about being a deacon? There are many challenges and difficulties and frustrations, of course, but sometimes when you witness just one person becoming closer to the presence of God in their life, one person experiencing the healing of belonging again, of finding new life – or when you know you have the privilege of being part of the way God is working to make all things new – then nothing compares with this.
WORDS: Spanky Moore


Friday, May 7, 2010
do this in memory of me
I'm so happy to be guest designing this month at Allyscraps! If you haven't seen it yet, there is a May 1 Sketch Challenge posted with one of my sketches. You still have a few days to get your entry in for that great prize!
Check out my post today for the "3-in-1" sketch that goes with the layout above! I just love the wonderful new Bella Blvd. Estate Sale line, and it was perfect for these pictures from Ryan's First Holy Communion from last year. Yes, it's true... there is a hint of pink on this page, a real rarity for me when scrapping the boys, LOL! But I thought it was just subtle enough to complement the pinks in the stained glass window and the alter flowers on the large photo! :)
Your 2nd grade class had been preparing virtually all year for this big day – your First Holy Communion. What a milestone on your journey of faith. Daddy and I pray that as you grow, your faith will always be a strong and guiding principle in all that you do. May you forever find strength in the grace of God’s love and mercy.
Posted by Debbie Gaydos at 5/07/2010 11:05:00 AM


Welcome to Preparation USchool of Prophecy
“Whatever may be man’s intellectual advancement, let him not for a moment think that there is no need of thorough and continuous searching of the Scriptures for greater light. As a people we are called individually to be students of prophecy. We must watch with earnestness that we may discern any ray of light which God shall present to us. We are to catch the first gleamings of truth; and through prayerful study, clearer light may be obtained, which can be brought before others.
“When God’s people are at ease, and satisfied with their present enlightenment, we may be sure that He will not favor them. It is His will that they should be ever moving forward, to receive the increased and ever-increasing light which is shining for them.”—Testimonies Vol. V, pp. 707—709.Ellen G. White


I love God. I’ve always loved God since I was 5, when they narrated a story, telling me I was a miracle child who almost died at birth. Of course, a lot of exaggerations from Nigerian parents, but that’s a story for another day.
As I grew, I was made to love him more, just like my mum, her friends and the entire congregation of the deliverance ministry where we worshiped. It was a serious task, but I had no choice. My mum had given me a serious lecture where she said I must prove my love for God if I didn’t want him to spew me out of his mouth and if I was sure I didn’t want to remain stagnant.
And so, the journey started. I screamed at the top of my voice, telling God to release my blessings. I commanded my enemies to fall down and die, took part in days of fasting and simply murmured when the time came to pray for salvation, pray for Nigeria, the church, victims of Boko Haram and all other things that didn’t put food on the table.
You see, we didn’t mind losing our voices for those blessings to fall. It was all that mattered, the single way we proved our love for God. Even the Pastors knew our blessings were important, and they made sure we got it.
Sometimes, it was the senior Pastor who took it upon himself to release those instant blessings. Yes, the senior Pastor. He was like a mini god because all he was interested in was making sure we received our miracles. We believed and obeyed every word he said. We looked up to him for our blessings, especially those moments when he was filled with the spirit and walked round the church, repeatedly saying “take it…receive it…take it”.
With senior Pastor, it was easy. Most of the time, he simply urged us to come up to the altar with a seed if we needed that instant miracle. Who didn’t? Senior Pastor always noted that no amount was too small. With this, nobody was left out of the blessings.
I really have no idea if the blessings really came down, but mum always obeyed every word and I had to do the same, while I prayed for an opportunity to leave home for good.
Well, the opportunity came after three years of constant supplication, and I still have no idea if it’s as a result of the seed senior Pastor always made us to place at the altar. Being away from home was the best part of my life. I didn’t have to jump or scream at the top of my voice when it was time to pray. I didn’t have to worry about senior Pastor placing his hands on my head or requesting for a seed.
Now I’m back after 2years, and things haven’t change much. The church is still the same, except for the extra building they erected for the senior Pastor and his family.
We still prove our love for God the way it has been done. The other day, the Pastor said God’s angel was about to give somebody a gift, and we had to drop the highest denomination of currency in our purses and pockets. For someone who was forced to Church, with no time to prepare, the highest denomination I squeezed out of my pocket was as good as the lowest denomination of the Nigerian currency. I couldn’t disobey the man of God, and I knew God understood, so I went to the altar with what I had.
The last service I attended was called ‘harvest of miracles’, where the senior Pastor started by prophesying into our lives, with everyone jumping and trying catch their miracles before it fell to the ground. I still wonder why I’m yet to get used to this kind of service, the kind that I’ve known all my life. With my kind of parents, giving seeds every other Sunday and using every bit of energy to pray down their blessings, I should be used to the service, but I’m sure something is wrong somewhere.
As the senior Pastor rounded up his prophesies, the Lord spoke to him, and we had to complete the release of our blessings by coming out to the altar with a certain amount of money, or anything higher than that.
I made up my mind not to move an inch from where I stood. I didn’t have as much as the Lord was requesting, so there was no point walking down to the altar. But from nowhere, I was pulled to the front by a Mother who had probably planned to embarrass me in the house of God.
I thought she pulled me out with a plan to give me the money requested by God, but she just ordered that I stood there, saying, “I’ll put the money on behalf of the entire family”. Really? I wondered why I had to stand in front of senior Pastor when she was already standing on behalf of the family.
There was no time to engage in too much thinking as senior Pastor interrupted my thoughts with something I never expected. The next step he took left me sick, and with the way my legs shook, I thought I was going to come crashing, but it failed to happen. He had never done this. Never bothered about how much we brought, never bothered if we brought the lowest denomination to the altar. This time, he went from person to person to see if we brought the amount the Lord had stated.
As he carried out the inspection, I began a silent prayer. The kind that is never done in our deliverance ministry. The kind my Catholic friend does when she excuses herself to pray. I began to think of possible responses that will not provoke senior Pastor to anger. I looked in Mum’s direction, but she was in the spirit already, as she fervently prayed on the seed she was about to give to the Lord.
Finally, he got to me, and I couldn’t find the words that would explain how I got to the front, neither could I ask if I could come with the seed later in the day, before his words came spilling, “I spoke simple English, simple English sister. Did you go to night school”?
At that point, I wanted to let him know that I’ve spent 2 years in the UK, and I attended one of the best schools, but the words failed to come out.
Now I’m stuck. I have to make a decision before the next Sunday service. I have to choose between becoming a pagan, attending a new church or going back to where I’ve known all my life.


Friday, January 16
FREE TWO DAY EVENT!
January 16th at 6pm CST/7pm EST is a night for youth and young adults that will ignite and impact your life like never before. Join us for an impacting night of worship, ministry, and the Word of God that will transform your life!
January 17th 6pm CST/7pm EST is a night of ministry for the whole family! Come and experience the power of God in your own life through worship, personal ministry, and so much more!
Childcare will not be available for both evenings.
Decker Hall Room 133
1100 East 5th Street
Anderson, Indiana 46012


We'd love to get to know you!
You might be wondering, what's it like attending a service at The Light? Simply stated, we're all about Jesus. No matter what you've been through or what questions you might have about God and faith, our church is a place where you'll find the love, grace, truth, and forgiveness that only Jesus can give. We desire to build relationships that last through small groups, worship and community. No matter how you're dressed or what your standing is in the community, we want you to know that you are welcome here. The Light is made up of imperfect people with every kind of story imaginable, all on a spiritual journey to grow in Christ and become all He has redeemed us to be.
The Light meets every week and offers services and Bible studies to attend.
Main Service: Sundays at 9:30am | 11:00am
Young Adults: Monday nights at 7:00pm
Adult Bible Study: Wednesday nights at 7:00pm
Light Youth (7-12th graders): Sundays during 11:00am service after worship AND Wednesday nights at 7:00pm
What's more, we'd love to offer you a free gift upon your first visit! Just fill out the form below, and we will have your gift waiting at the info desk in the lobby!
Lastly, we are blessed to be a part of Gateway Church (Southlake) Network Churches. This means they give an Apostolic oversight to our church and provide guidance and training to all of our pastors and staff.
NOTE: We value your privacy and would never spam you.
To Connect with one of our Light Home Groups just click on the card below
For service times, directions, and what to expect upon your first visit to The Light, click on the card below!
"Pastor Ron is very anointed in preaching and extremely spirit moved, MY FAV. We felt very welcomed being guests and felt right at home! The WORSHIP team took me to an amazing place of worship where I felt the Holy Spirit surrounding me; it was truly heart felt!"
Brandon & Katie Brooks


Download Joey Lomangino Update
Download joey lomangino update. J has marked the passing of Joseph "Joey" Lomangino, precisely 53 years ago to the day of the first alleged heavenly apparition (J) to four young girls in Garabandal, Spain.
Joey's Message. Lourdes, Fatima and Garabandal are one; a trilogy drawn in an arc across Portugal, Spain and France and united by a shared and increasingly amplified theme. The advocates of Garabandal contend that the Spanish apparitions are the key to understanding this great Marian Age of the Church. Garabandal is the bridge linking what has. Joey Lomangino Update. 8/20/ 0 Comments Find out about the apparitions of Our Lady of Carmel in Garabandal Spain.
The complete Garabandal story. Corona Virus update: many churches and shrines have altered hours or are closed temporarily. Contact them directly to get the latest information. The Catholic Travel Guide The Catholic Travel Guide. Garabandal promoter Joey Lomangino dies. (Update: Joey Lomangino, the blind Garabandal devotee, passed away on J.) Followers of the false apparitions of Garabandal tend to be of the "conservative" Novus Ordo type, who are generally concerned about abuses that are rampart in the Vatican II Church, but in reality know and care little about the teachings of the Catholic.
NEW YORK GARABANDAL CENTER UPDATE: Joey Lomangino Recovering from Heart Attack: Roman Catholic Deacon: AM: Posted in group: Friends of Garabandal: At the time of the apparitions at Garabandal, the Most Blessed Virgin Mary instructed the visionaries that she desired her message made known to the world. Note: For more information concerning prophecy related to the Great Miracle regarding Padre Pio, Fr.
Luis Andreu SJ, Joey Lomangino and the Conversion. Joey Lomangino, the founder of the U.S. based apostolate for Garabandal issued a brief statement on April 21 announcing her death. The apparitions occurred between – in the small village of Garabandal located 55 miles southwest of Santander, Spain. I think that the death of Joey Lomangino is the event that was foretold to create disbelief in Garabandal. I think that Conchita, knowing the date of Garabandal, could not have possibly believed that Padre Pio would still be alive to witness it but I believe that it was reasonable for her to believe that Joey Lomangino would be alive for the.
Jeff, as someone who was close to Joey Lomangino, I wish to dispel the doubts you express regarding Garabandal. Our Lady promised Joey Lomangino at Garabandal that on the day of the Miracle, She would give him new eyes, and the first thing he would see would be.
Joey Lomangino to receive new eyes at the miracle to occur in Spain - Joey will be 80 years old this year, and a sick man esqh.mgshmso.ru, as above! Now regarding Conchita’s statement that Joey Lomangino will receive new eyes at the time of the Miracle so that he can see the miracle. Well, Joey Lomangino has died and again the Media states that Garabandal is a failed prophecy. Ye of little faith! I have written about this in a previous post.
joey lomangino passed away on june 18th ; fatima consecration of russia "he (the pope) will do it but it will be late!!!" our lady of garabandal in brazil "god called patrick "home" on the vigil of all saint’s day." mother angelica interviews father steven scheier "judgement.
Joseph LOMANGINO passed away in Huntington Station, New York. Funeral Home Services for Joseph are being provided by M.A. Connell Funeral Home. The obituary was. The esqh.mgshmso.ru site was Joey Lomangino's, now maintained by his family. The esqh.mgshmso.ru site is actually a very nice helpful site.
The only one I avoid is the garabandal site because I told them not to make any predictions of the Warning,and they did it anyway, proving they have no idea of the truth,since it never happened and they. Anthony Lomangino is Chairman/Founder at Southern Waste Systems. See Anthony Lomangino's compensation, career history, education, & memberships. In April Joey Lomangino, founder of a large organization for U.S.
Garabandal devotees, received from Conchita a copy of a letter dated Febru from Archbishop Carlos Sierra of Oviedo. Sierra is the acting Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Santander in Spain, and the letter was addressed to a prominent Garabandal. (An interview which I heard with Joey Lomangino suggests that it may be the cure of just one condition, perhaps minor.) • Sinners will be converted > > • The Bishop will raise the.
Garbage magnate Anthony Lomangino and his wife, Lynda, have offloaded their Jupiter mansion for $ million, two months after buying a home in. Finally, the principal promoter of Garabandal, Joey Lomangino, testifies that it was Saint Padre Pio who told him the Blessed Virgin was appearing at Garabandal and he should go. It seems, therefore, that notwithstanding the decisions of two commissions accepted by the bishops of Santander, that there are reasonable grounds for individual.
We drove 6 hours to San Sebastian de Garabandal in September to update my previous video from some years ago - here is the result. The main changes I saw there were the new Pilgrims' Information Center (beside which there are two tiny public restrooms) and a narrow walkway which goes about half way up to the pines with a handrail. St. Michael's Garabandal Center is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to spreading The Message delivered by Our lady of Carmel during the apparitions at Garabandal.
We were established infirst on the East coast until and then on the West coast until this present time. (Update: Joey Lomangino, the blind Garabandal devotee, passed away on J.) Followers of the false apparitions of Garabandal tend to be of the "conservative" Novus Ordo type, who are generally concerned about abuses that are rampart in the Vatican II Church, but in reality know little about the teachings of the Catholic Church.
June 18, - Joey Lomangino 53 years ago today, St. Michael the Arch Angel appeared in Garabandal. Today unfortunately, this is not as happy an occasion. It is with a broken heart, and the immense sadness that I regretfully announce the passing away of Joey Lomangino. I have confirmed this story with family, friends and Conchita. Interview with Joey Lomangino, Mother Angelica (EWTN), Norms of the Congregation for Proceeding in Judging Alleged Apparitions and Revelations Conchita's Diary Articles, Interviews, and Testimonies.
Additional articles may be found here. Videos & Media made available by: Catholic Webcast and Garabandal Archives. He promoted the religious cause of girl in Spain who had visions, and is known internationaly in that account; known there as Joey Lomangino. LOMANGINO - Joseph J. 83, of Huntington, on J. Succesful businessman, Knight of Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (KHS) and founder of Workers of Our Lady of Mt.
Carmel. Beloved husband of Marilynn. If Joey Lomangino dies without having his eyes restored, where does that leave the Garabandal Prophecy? Joey must be around 79 years old today.
He is supposed to have his eyes restored during the Miracle in the Garabandal prophecy. Answer Save. 4 Answers. Relevance. Trish.
Lv 6. 1 decade ago. Lomangino, who helped build Allied Sanitation, a major division of Resource, is not one of the 17 individuals (along with 23 companies) who were indicted last June by Manhattan's district attorney. But more indictments are expected this year, and law enforcement sources say they believe Allied couldn't have grown so large without playing by the.
Joey Lomangino The passing of Joseph Lomangino on the anniversary of the first apparition and also the last public message of Garabandal 6/18/ Lindenhurst, New York.
J has marked the passing of Joseph "Joey" Lomangino, precisely 53 years ago to the day of the first alleged heavenly apparition (J) to four young girls. Joey Lomangino, who has dedicated his life to spreading the Message of Garabandal, is totally and incurably blind.
But, through the above quote from a letter from the Garabandal visionary Conchita Gonzalez, Joey has the assurance that he will one day see. Update the Garabandal magazine and improve its circulation. Feb 1, - Or just the hysteria of puberty and staring at the sun for too long.
See more ideas about Blessed mother, Catholic, Catholic faith pins. The passing of Joey Lomangino -Well known promoter of Our Lady of Garabandal-A possible unfulfilled prophesy, but also a sign for Garabandal detractors The passing of Joseph Lomangino on the anniversary of the first apparition and also the last public message of Garabandal 6/18/ Lindenhurst, New York. GARABANDAL UPDATE: Roman Catholic Deacon: 7/15/08 PM: The magazine "Garabandal International" has updated some information regarding the village of Garabandal, the current Bishop and Pastor, Joey Lomangino, the Seers and the Miracle.
"There are clear signs that Our Lady is preparing the way for the prophesied events. The roads leading up. El Gran Aviso y el Milagro se acercan rápidamente, como Dios prometió a través de nuestra Señora a Conchita, Mari Loli, Jacinta, Mari Cruz, transmitido al soldado de Garabandal Joey Lomangino.
Joey Lomangino's Trip to India: "It was on November 5,at the invitation of the late Cardinal's Valerian Gracias and Parecattil, that Joey Lomangino came to India. On arrival in Bombay, I introduced him to the Cardinal. Joey's tour of the country particularly in Madras, Bangalore, Ernakulam and Cochin was really spectacular. Quote from the cover: "Take care not to be disturbed. For these things must be, but the end is not so soon." (Mt. ). At Garabandal, and again at Medjugorje, the Virgin Mary appeared to a group of children and gave them secrets about the near future.
At The Workers of Our Lady-Canada, we aim to share with all the people the truth about the Blessed Virgin Mary. Through this trilogy, we strive to shed light on the seemingly unfathomable secrets related to Our Lady. Be blessed as you read the eyewitness accounts of the events at the Garabandal. In the latter part ofJoey Lomangino, received a request from Garabandal village pastor, Father Juan Gonzalez, for funds to finance the installation of a new floor in the church and to reinforce buttressed at the rear of the structure.
The repairs were made possible by the generosity of many people and this is how the church appears today. Just wondering what people here think of the Garabandal Prophecy's? I know Bishop Williamson is a supporter and hopes it is true, Was hoping Bishop Williamson would u.
We audiobook cannot reply to individual inquiries review or to emails directed to Joey Lomangino. This business is unclaimed. Owners who claim their business can update listing details. respond garabandal journal magazine subscription to reviews. review Claim this. Contextual translation of "joey" into English. Human translations with examples: joey, never a joey, joey, hong kong.
In conjunction of it, according to the promise of the alleged Madonna of Garabandal, Joey Lomangino would have get back his eyes, that had been surgically removed. On 18 Juneat the age of 83, Joey Lomangino has died. As it is obvious, he did not regain his sight and, moreover, in Garabandal no Great Miracle happened. Mar 8, - Conchita Gonzalez, one of the four visionaries who had apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the early s in Garabandal, Spain, was interviewed in English is.
Contextual translation of "lomangino" into Spanish. Human translations with examples: MyMemory, World's Largest Translation Memory.


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(38) The Church
Chai and Mrs. Bento failed to recognize St. Wenceslaus Church on Gladstone Avenue possibly because of their stereotypical impression of what a Catholic church should look like - always grand and Romanesque in style. Yet, this church built around 1951 is Czech in origin, minimally designed as an industrial building, probably based on practicality, and to avoid financial overload. Looking up at the building, they noticed five mosaic windows carrying religious themes, and they also saw the official entrance to the church. Walking along the building, towards the end they can see Dufferin Street. “It is indeed very visible from the busy Dufferin Street,” remarked Mrs. Bento, “I mean if you are really looking for it. We’ve passed here hundreds of times, despite the very big wooden cross fixed on the exterior wall, and a metal sign showing the name of the church, we've never noticed it!” By this time the fair sun had cast, from the trees across, a good deal of shadows on the building's beige wall, breaths of soft wind added layers of graceful movements. A modest structure with God-given beauty indeed, they thought. “Churches serve their communities,” said Mrs. Bento to Chai, “but I have not known the existence of this church and therefore unaware of the Czech community until today!”
Chai took what Mrs. Bento said to heart and later, when they got home, did some research. Today it is estimated over a hundred thousand individuals of full or partial Czech descent in Canada. Chai has little idea of who Saint Wenceslaus was, and easily found out that he was the duke of Bohemia from 921. Due to his efforts to unify Bohemia, and his support of Christian values caused him his life. He was eventually killed by supporters of his brother Boleslav in 929. Although the cause of his death was primarily from political reason, he was hailed as a martyr for the faith. By the end of the century Wenceslaus was celebrated as the nation’s patron saint. At the beginning of the 11th century St. Wenceslaus was already regarded as the patron of modern Czechoslovakia.
In the United States, it is estimated over one million people of full or partial Czech descent. That’s ten times more than Canada. Many States have erected churches in the name of St. Wenceslaus, the oldest being built in 1856 in New Prague, Minnesota. There are St. Wenceslaus Church in Baltimore, Chicago, Iowa, Montana, North and South Dakota, Oregon, Nebraska, Wisconsin and particular in the State of St. Louis - the church St. John Nepomuk built in 1854 in Gothic Revival style, is argued by many, the truly oldest Czech church in the US. From the typical look of all these churches, Chai said to Mrs. Bento a few days later, they should have no problem identifying the church. But St. Wenceslaus Church on Gladstone bears a very different look and therefore, hit their miss list. As an afterthought, they ought to be more careful next time, things cannot be judged simply by appearance. “An apple might not look like an apple!” Mrs. Bento hazily recalled.
(38) The Church


Welcome to Greater Faith Online
From the desk of Bishop Marcel Miles......
Greetings my beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ. I am truly honored that you have taken the time to visit our GFC site on today. Let me personally take this opportunity to welcome you. Here at Greater Faith Church we believe that where the Spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. We take great joy in setting the atmosphere for the Holy Spirit to manifest miracles, signs and wonders in every service. If you are seeking for a place to grow and to work out your soul salvation, I would like to invite you to attend an upcoming services.
We have some dynamic teachers who will challenge you in the word of God. Again, I am honored that you stopped by and the Greater Faith family would love to see you soon.
Bishop Marcel Miles
Sunday Comitted Men 8:30 a.m.
Sunday School 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Morning Worship 11:15 a.m.
Wednesday Night Bible Study 7:30 p.m.
Houston, Texas 77066


Members of the Russian Orthodox Church have this week cancelled a joint summit with the Finnish Lutheran Church over a disagreement between the two churches regarding their stance on LGBT rights.
Archbishop Kari Mäkinen of the Finnish Lutheran’s claims the Russian Orthodox Church demanded that he sign a statement condemning gays and lesbians in advance of the planned event.
Archbishop Mäkinen refused and stated that he would not attend the summit, which was planned to be on the subject of Christianity and anthropology.
Talking later to press the Archbishop said “[our church] doesn’t directly condemn homosexuality”.
The Russian Orthodox Church has always held strong anti-gay views and in the past has been a large supporter of Russia’s ban on ‘homosexual propaganda’. Members of the church have often spoken out against homosexuals and alternative lifestyles within Russia.
Despite the Finnish Lutheran’s refusal to accept the Russian Orthodox Church’s homophobic views they have stated that they wish to continue cooperating with their Russian counterparts in the future.
The Finnish Lutheran church is the official state church of Finland and receives large support from state taxes. Although gay marriage is illegal in Finland LGBT people living in the country are protected by a number of anti-discrimination laws and LGBT individuals are much more accepted than in Russia.


Preheat oven to 300º
Read John 19:1-3 - Beat the nuts with a cooking mallet...set aside
Read John 19:28-30 - Sniff the vinegar, dip finger in to taste, place vinegar in mixing bowl
Read John 10:10-11 - Add egg whites to bowl with vinegar
Read Luke 23:27 - Taste a few grains of salt...add salt to bowl
Read Psalms 34:8 and John 3:16 - Sweet Salvation! Taste sugar and add to bowl
Crank up mixer and let it go while you read Isaiah 1:18 and John 3:1-3, let mixer go for about 12-15 minutes...mixtures needs to be very stiff.
Read Matthew 27:57-60 - Fold nuts into egg and sugar mixture, this symbolizes rocks in the garden.
Using a scoop, scoop mixture into mounds (try and get them to symbolize the tomb), put in oven and turn oven off.
Read Matthew 27:65-66 - The tomb is sealed...use two pieces of tape to "seal" oven door closed.
Read John 16:20&22. Consider these passages and go to bed.
NEXT MORNING: Read Matthew 28:1-9 - JESUS IS RISEN!! There is an empty tomb!!! Unseal oven door, take the cookies out, break or bite one in half...empty...just like the tomb!!! Hallelujah!!!!!!


1) BE God's Kingdom
The Church is not a building, nor is it a place. The Church (the Ekklesia) is a gathering/collection of PEOPLE called according to God’s will to manifest His presence and Kingdom in this world. The Church gathers together into a local collective. A collective is a little different than a community. A community is “a group sharing a common understanding and often the same language, manners, tradition and law.” Whereas a collective is “formed by gathering or collecting; gathered into a mass, sum, or body." A community is defined by what they DO (objectives, laws, plans) or where they live (i.e. a neighborhood or city, civic/community club) who rally around shared interests, activities, or geography. A collective is defined by who they ARE. They have a shared identity, ethos, or spirit. We are gathered because of who we are and what we’re all about, we all have invested ourselves out of a common ethos, identity, and values, not laws, rules, regulations, or simply because of geographical location. We gather to BE not simply to do. We WANT to express God’s presence by building up the body of Jesus Christ.
We express this by meeting house to house so that we can organically express our identity as the temple of the Holy Spirit and manifest the presence of Jesus relationally with one another (Acts 2:42-47). We disciple one another in the Church to grow in the knowledge of the truth, to grow in maturity in our faith, and discover more of His righteousness that He has made our identity. (2 Cor 5:21). We go on adventures to enjoy the LORD’s creation together, grow relationally with one another, and grow in our ability to work and accomplish goals/tasks together as those who are a part of God’s Kingdom. (Romans 15:1-5).
2) Bring God's Kingdom
When we know who we are, that we are God’s very presence in this world, because He is in us, and when we rest and live by faith in that identity, we manifest the presence of Christ in the world around us. We reflect this in our everyday living - “that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). We are not just to be IN and FOR the Community, but we are WITH the community. We ought to actively be a part of the community in which we live, seeking to do good, and bring the presence of God into every corner of our city. We do this by being a good, responsible, and respectable neighbor. We are God’s ambassadors - God making His appeal to this world through us, His people, the Church (2 Cor. 5:20). As an organization, we make our building a place the community around us wants and desires to come to, not just on Sundays, but everyday.
We express this by intentionally living in our identity as new creations, walking in the reality that God has made us His righteousness. We express this by intentionally being a part of our city, the schools, clubs, organizations. We express this by using our facilities to be a place of meeting for local, state, and national organizations. We express this by transforming our facilities into a place that people want to come and spend time in on a daily basis, creating a “3rd Space” (coffee shop and concert/event center) for people to exist. Be a place that is the center for culture, creativity, music, and community gathering for our city.
3) BUILD God’s kingdom
We proclaim the gospel! We look for ways to love and opportunities to connect with people in our community specifically to make disciples, seeing the LORD add to our number those who are being saved and brought to spiritual life. We don’t operate only in realms where we ONLY want to proselytize, but we put ourselves into positions where we are capable of having those faith conversations, loving people, and creating opportunities to be a divine presence of the Holy Spirit to connect with people in our communities.
We express this by bringing the gospel and the truth of God’s creation to the culture around us through any and all means (1 Cor 9:22). We write articles/blogs/vlogs/journals giving a Biblical worldview to those in the Church and those in the world around us (1 Pet 3:15). We actively participate in events, organizations, and any opportunity afforded to us as residents of the USA, Montana, and specifically the city of Belgrade (John 17). We lead groups from the community (through the coffee shop) on adventures. (Romans 1 & Acts 17).


Though San Miguel de Allende is the most well-known, almost every state in La Republica has a town named “San Miguel.” Here, you will see hundreds of dramatic images and statues of the sword-wielding Archangel conquering the devil. What is the deal with Saint Michael? And why is he revered here?
There are many interpretations of the story, and this one is chosen, frankly, cuz it’s the most dramatic version.
The story of Saint Michael is an apocryphal creation story. In other words it does not specifically appear in the Bible, but it remains as a sort of myth explaining the beginning of humankind. Saint John writes a vision of it in Revelations 12:7-10.
In the aeons before God created man, the story goes, He lived in Heaven surrounded by His angels. There are different types of angels, and the most important ones are the Archangels. They had names like Gabriel (the one who announced to Mary she was going to bear Jesus); Raphael, Uriel, etc. Notice the names all end in “el,” this is the ancient Hebrew word for God. So, for example, “Michael” means “who likens himself to God?” We’ll get to that in a bit.
Angels have all the immortality, spirit and love of God, but they lack one thing: free will. They are there to glorify God, sing praises, run messages, and tidy up around the place. Michael is a badass. He is kind of the sergeant at arms for Heaven. Why would a bunch of beings made of love and light need a bouncer? Hold on.
One day the Almighty announces that He is going to create a new being, made of earth and spirit – humans. Further, He added, He would endow these things with the ability to choose their own fate – that is, free will.
When God proclaimed His intention, the most handsome angel – Lucifer protested. Lucifer means ‘light bringer,’ it is also the name of Venus when it shines in the morning, bringing the light before the sun. Lucifer’s problem was that if God created humans who had options, they might choose against God. This would be intolerable!
Michael, clearly the muscle in the organization, said something to the effect of “Hey! God Almighty said He’s gonna do it, who are you to argue? So shut your yap.”
Lucifer did not, and it ignited the Great War in Heaven. Michael was the general of his side, Lucifer lined up his party; and they fought. In the Bible vision Lucifer becomes a dragon.
Michael won, of course, and he cast Lucifer out of Heaven, followed by the rebel angels. He stood over the fallen devil and proclaimed “Who likens himself to God?!” or in ancient Hebrew: “Michael!” God punished Lucifer basically saying “You care so much about people making evil choices? Then you be in charge of those souls,” and created the darkness of Hell where Lucifer, the former light-bringer, presides.
The image of Saint Michael with his foot on the neck of the dragon Lucifer, brandishing his sword arouses a religious fervor in the hearts of Mexicans. Remember, Mexico, a fiercely Catholic country, has gone through two bloody revolutions for its freedom, first slaying the dragon of Spain, and then a misbehaving despot. It seems the San Miguel story resonates with citizens in a profound way.


G) St Joseph's Catholic Church
Walk further down Winchester Street to number 18 on your right, and you will arrive at the location of the original Church. Built-in 1865, St Joseph’s was the oldest stone Roman Catholic church in the South Island.
The church was important to the many Irish settlers who came to New Zealand and settled in Lyttelton, escaping the potato famine that struck Ireland between 1845 and 1849.
Unfortunately, the beautiful stone church also fell victim to the 2011 earthquake, like many other significant historic buildings in the region and the gate and steps are all that remain.
If you look at the hill to your right you will see the Catholic and Presbyterian Cemetery.
Go to the next building St Saviours at Holy Trinity


The threat of COVID-19 has altered the way that churches are able to worship and fellowship. The church is not closed, but doing its ministries in new and innovative ways.
At present we are happy to be able to gather for in-person worship on Sunday mornings at 10 am. Until further notice, we do not require wearing a mask but it is recommended.
Also, please join us for online worship each week. Services will normally be available on Sunday morning and will remain at the following link for one week. After that they will be found in the Online Worship Archive. Click here for this week's service. Click Here
Bible Study is currently "Zooming", Tuesdays 3:30 - 5:00.


Published: 05th September 2019
Saint Teresa of Calcutta: 15 reasons why we remember the Mother of the City of Joy
Pope Francis had recognised a second miracle attributed to Teresa — the healing of a Brazilian man with multiple brain tumours in 2008 — and was canonised for that
Saint Teresa of Calcutta or Mother Teresa was born Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu (Mary Teresa Bojaxhiu) in Skopje (now the capital of North Macedonia), spent all her life serving the society in India and then passed away 22 years ago — on September 5, 1997.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday paid her tribute to Mother Teresa. Banerjee tweeted, ''Mother Teresa (Saint Teresa of Calcutta) passed away on this day in 1997, after a lifetime of service for the poorest of the poor. Sincerest tribute to her. In her memory, the @UN declared this day as the International Day of Charity.''
Here's what a life of social service and dedication looks like, summed up in 15 poignant points:
1. Teresa left home in 1928 at age 18 to join the Sisters of Loreto at Loreto Abbey in Rathfarnham, Ireland, to learn English with the view of becoming a missionary; English was the language of instruction of the Sisters of Loreto in India. She never saw her mother or her sister again. Her family lived in Skopje until 1934, when they moved to Tirana.
2. She arrived in India in 1929 and began her novitiate (the period of training and preparation that a Christian novice or member of a religious order undergoes prior to taking vows in order to discern whether he or she is called to vowed religious life) in Darjeeling, in the lower Himalayas, where she learned Bengali and taught at St. Teresa's School near her convent. Teresa took her first religious vows on 24 May 1931. She chose to be named after Thérèse de Lisieux, the patron saint of missionaries; because a nun in the convent had already chosen that name, Agnes opted for its Spanish spelling (Teresa).
3. Teresa took her solemn vows on May 14, 1937, while she was a teacher at the Loreto convent school in Entally, eastern Calcutta. She served there for nearly twenty years and was appointed its headmistress in 1944. Although Teresa enjoyed teaching at the school, she was increasingly disturbed by the poverty surrounding her in Calcutta. The Bengal famine of 1943 brought misery and death to the city, and the August 1946 Direct Action Day began a period of Muslim-Hindu violence.
4. Mother Teresa began missionary work with the poor in 1948. She replaced her traditional Loreto habit with a simple white cotton sari that had a blue border. Her efforts quickly caught the attention of Indian officials, including the prime minister. Teresa wrote in her diary that her first year was fraught with difficulty. With no income, she begged for food and supplies and experienced doubt, loneliness and the temptation to return to the comfort of convent life during these early months.
5. Mother Teresa adopted Indian citizenship and spent several months in Patna to attain basic medical training at Holy Family Hospital and ventured to slums. She founded a school in Motijhil, Kolkata before she began tending to the poor and hungry. At the beginning of 1949, Teresa was joined in her effort by a group of young women, and she laid the foundation for a new religious community helping the "poorest among the poor".
6. October 7, 1950. Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious congregation. In her words, it would care for "the hungry, the naked, the homeless, the crippled, the blind, the lepers, all those people who feel unwanted, unloved, uncared for throughout society, people that have become a burden to the society and are shunned by everyone".
7. While teaching poor children in Calcutta, Mother Teresa did not have any supplies or equipment to impart knowledge, yet she managed to teach the children to read and write by writing in the dirt with wooden sticks. She opened a hospice for those with leprosy, calling it Shanti Nagar (City of Peace). The Missionaries of Charity established leprosy-outreach clinics throughout Calcutta, providing medication, dressings and food. The Missionaries of Charity took in an increasing number of homeless children; in 1955 Teresa opened Nirmala Shishu Bhavan, the Children's Home of the Immaculate Heart, as a haven for orphans and homeless youth.
8. Mother Teresa rescued 37 children trapped in a front line hospital by brokering a temporary cease-fire between Israel and Palestine. Accompanied by Red Cross workers, she travelled through the war zone to the destroyed hospital to evacuate the young patients.
9. Mother Teresa received more than 120 honours and awards during her lifetime including the Ramon Magsaysay Peace Prize in 1962 and Nobel Peace Prize in 1979.
10. The Missionaries of Charity Brothers was founded in 1963, and a contemplative branch of the Sisters followed in 1976. Lay Catholics and non-Catholics were enrolled in the Co-Workers of Mother Teresa, the Sick and Suffering Co-Workers, and the Lay Missionaries of Charity. Responding to requests by many priests, in 1981 Mother Teresa founded the Corpus Christi Movement for Priests and (with priest Joseph Langford) the Missionaries of Charity Fathers in 1984 to combine the vocational aims of the Missionaries of Charity with the resources of the priesthood. By 2007 the Missionaries of Charity numbered about 450 brothers and 5,000 sisters worldwide, operating 600 missions, schools and shelters in 120 countries.
11. In April 1996 she fell, breaking her collarbone, and four months later she had malaria and heart failure. Although Teresa had heart surgery, her health was clearly declining. On March 13, 1997, Teresa resigned as head of the Missionaries of Charity, and she died on September 5, five days after the death of another of the world's most famous women, Lady Diana Spencer. At the time of her death, the Missionaries of Charity had over 4,000 sisters and an associated brotherhood of 300 members operating 610 missions in 123 countries.
12. Teresa lay in repose in an open casket in St Thomas, Calcutta, for a week before her funeral. She received a state funeral from the Indian government in gratitude for her service to the poor of all religions in the country.
13. She worked for orphans, AIDS patients, refugees, blind, disabled, alcoholics, poor, homeless, victims of floods and epidemics and famine.
14. Mother Teresa was beatified on October 19, 2003, and was known by Catholics as "Blessed".
15. Mother Teresa was canonised at a ceremony on September 4, 2016, in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican City.


- About Us
Elsie S. Riley
Beloved wife of the late James J. Riley; loving mother of Peggy Riley Hanselman, Michael (Jeanette) Riley, and Christopher (Suzanne Bunuan ) Riley; grandmother of Andrew Riley Hanselman, Jeffrey (Kelly), Patrick (Sara), and Timothy (Dana) Riley; great-grandmother of McKenna, Declan, and Colin Riley; also survived by 2 sisters, Mildred June Mullen and Rena “Bobbie” Ardan.
Silver Spring Church of Christ
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