When I was in my teenage years, I regularly attended church with my family. However, for a long time, I struggled with the question: if God exists, why is He Hiding?
I would sometimes asked my church leaders questions such as: “Why doesn’t God make Himself more obvious?”, “Why does God seem so silent and hidden?” or “Why doesn’t God just show up and reveal Himself today?”. However, the responses I got were usually either dismissive or unsatisfactory.
However, in my late teens and early twenties, when I started looking into Christianity afresh, I began to find at least some answers to my questions around the “hiddenness” of God.
My aim with this article is to attempt to answer the question of “Why is God hiding?” by defending three points that I have become convinced of since becoming a Christian:
God has not hidden Himself
God reveals Himself in ways that make sense
God hides Himself in ways that make sense
I do have a couple of disclaimers for this article. Firstly, as often is the case for my articles, I shall be focussing on the God of Christianity. I will leave the topic of other religions for other blog posts. Secondly, I am not going to try to give a rigorous defence of the evidence for the existence of God. Rather, this article looks at trying to explain the apparent hiddenness of God, on the presupposition that God does indeed exist.
1. God Has Not Hidden Himself
I think a logical place to start answering the question “Why is God Hiding?” is to firstly look at what Christianity claims about the hiddenness and/or revelation of God. The New Testament book of Hebrews opens with the following claim:
In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son… The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. (Hebrews 1:1-3)
The bible claims that God is not hiding, but instead revealed Himself by speaking “at many times and in various ways”. However, the definitive revelation, which Christians give ultimate weight to, is the man of Jesus. The Christian claim is that c.2000 years ago, God took human form in the man of Jesus- to reveal to humanity God’s existence, character, and message to the world.
Obviously, this is a huge claim- that God took human form in the man of Jesus. However, if it is true, then the assertion that “God is hiding” starts to come undone. If God really came to Earth as a man in order to reveal His existence, character and message to mankind, then clearly God has not totally hidden Himself from humans. Of course, one could argue that a one-off complete revelation of God in the man of Jesus 2000 years ago is somewhat dissatisfactory and empirically questionable in today’s rationalistic, scientific age. I will be coming back to that contention shortly. That being said, the one-off incarnation of God in the man of Jesus I think gives sufficient backing to the claim that God is not totally hidden from humanity, and has, at least to some extent, removed His hiddenness and revealed Himself to humanity.
Of course this line of argument leaves many unanswered questions, such as “Why doesn’t God reveal Himself again today?” and “Why doesn’t God reveal Himself in bigger, more obvious ways?”. These two questions are the basis of our final two sections.
2. God Reveals Himself in Ways that Make Sense
A fairly common argument against the Christian faith goes along the lines of: why did God choose the 1st Century to reveal Himself to humanity? Surely it would have made more sense to become a man in the 21st Century, when it could all be recorded on video? Why did God choose 1st Century Israel of out of all places in the world and times throughout history?
In answer to these questions, I think that a cursory dip into Ancient History produces interesting results. Christian philosopher Willian Lane Craig, in a debate with the late Christopher Hitchens, summarised the historical context of the incarnation of Jesus:
Human beings have existed for thousands of years on this planet before Christ’s coming. But what’s really crucial here is not the time involved; rather, it’s the population of the world. The Population Reference Bureau estimates that the number of people who have ever lived on this planet is about 105 billion people. Only two percent of them were born prior to the advent of Christ. Erik Kreps of the Survey Research Centre of the University of Michigan’s Institute for Social Research says, “God’s timing couldn’t have been more perfect. Christ showed up just before the exponential explosion in the world’s population.”
The Bible says in the fullness of time God sent forth his Son, and when Christ came, the nation of Israel had been prepared. The Roman peace dominated the Mediterranean world; it was an age of literacy and learning. The stage was set for the advent of God’s Son into the world. And I think in God’s providential plan for human history, we see the wisdom of God in orchestrating the development of human life and then in bringing Christ into the world in the fullness of time.
I’m not a historian, but from my point of view, Jesus coming to Earth when He did makes a lot of sense. The global population boom after Jesus meant the message of Jesus could be rapidly propagated down generations. The Roman Empire produced an extended and unprecedented period of Middle East peace as part of the wider Pax Romana. Additionally the Roman, Empire-Wide network of roads and trade routes made propagating the message of Jesus, including between countries, remarkably straightforward. And at the time, the oral tradition was beginning to be replaced by the popularisation of written records and documents. This meant that written records were made and passed down through the Centuries, but at the same time, Jesus’ followers did not have to follow Jesus around with journalistic note pads and pens; the oral tradition meant that accurate memorisation and oral retelling was the primary means of transmitting news and information, and the disciples would have had no problem doing such when biographing Jesus.
So in my opinion, Jesus coming when and where He did makes a lot of sense. I would even suggest it is difficult to think of a better time for Jesus to have come, and the identity and message of God to have been definitively and ultimately revealed to humanity.
However, one final obvious question remains. It is all good and well God revealing Himself in Jesus, but why does God stop there? Why doesn’t God do some more “incarnation-like” revelation of Himself to humanity today? That is what our final section is all about.
3. God Hides Himself in Ways that Make Sense
So why doesn’t God reveal Himself again today in a incarnation-like way, or indeed in any other way that is more obvious?
As a Christian, I believe that God does reveal Himself today in multiple ways notwithstanding the historical man of Jesus. I believe that God speaks through the bible, convicts people by His Holy Spirit, and can and does do supernatural acts and miracles today (although as I write in another blog, I'd advocate care and healthy scepticism around purported supernatural acts of God today).
However, the issue is, God could make His existence more obvious if He wanted to- of course He could. God could appear to sceptics in physical visible form, or send visions and dreams. God could even write “made by God” on every atom. If God is the all-powerful creator of the universe, of course He could do a lot more to make His existence and identity more obvious. So why doesn’t He?
I think the answer is oddly simple.
Jesus’ life on Earth did not have the sole aim of proving God’s existence- He also came with the message of the gospel for mankind. The God of the bible does not just want to have lots of people acknowledge His existence, like a fame-hungry celebrity. Rather, He wants people to enter a relationship with Him, as His beloved children.
The gospel message of Jesus teaches that God originally created a perfect world, and gave mankind perfect lives with no suffering, pain, evil or death. And God gave humanity a moral framework by which, if they obeyed it, they could live a perfect, suffering-free everlasting existence. However, we as humans rejected the moral framework- what the bible calls “sin”, and instead we decided to live life our own way. Jesus taught that the consequences of rejecting God by sinning is death and eternal separation from God; if we reject God, He, in a sense, allows us to exit His eternal presence. However, on the cross of crucifixion, Jesus took upon Himself the sins of humanity; He wiped away our sins and thus granted us the opportunity to be reconciled with God. And therefore if we accept the gift of forgiveness held out to us by the cross of Jesus, we are promised a perfect, suffering-free eternal life when we die.
Jesus’ message was not primarily one of evidence for the existence of God, but rather of the opportunity of reconciled relationship with God and eternal life in Paradise. And when put into that context, I think God hides Himself in a way that makes sense.
Would God sending regular visions and dreams of the divine lead more people into a relationship with God, or just send more people to their doctor?
Would God repeatedly popping up in people’s bedrooms in visible physical form lead more people into a relationship with God, or just leave more people creeped out by the supernatural?
Would writing “made by God” on every atom lead more people into a relationship with God, or would sceptics just not bother looking into it, like many do with the historical evidence for Jesus?
God’s primary aim is not to prove His existence, but to lead willing people into a reconciled relationship with Himself. For me, the historical man of Jesus and the accounts of His life and death appear to be a fantastically effective means by which God reveals His message to humanity; after all, around one third of the world’s population now self-identify as Christians.
There is much more that could be said on this topic, and of course I have only attempted to answer a couple of questions surrounding the hiddenness of God. That being said, for me, I am convinced that God it not hiding, but has revealed Himself to humanity in a way that makes a lot of sense- through the man of Jesus who preached a gospel message of reconciled relationships with God, and eternal life on offer for all those who will receive Him.


NOT EVERYONE'S OBSTACLES ARE THE SAME
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. Galatians 5:13
Hello everyone, I’m Vance Johnson, a former professional football player with the Denver Broncos.
I made three Super Bowl appearances, I am a world class athlete, and I am a recovering alcoholic/addict.
By owning my sobriety, I reclaimed my faith and became redeemed. It is now my purpose
and passion to inspire those who, like me, found themselves powerless, broken and looking
for a breakthrough.


Awaken to Your Own Omnipresent Nature
The little centuries of human years are but days, nay, a few hours, in God’s consciousness. Wake up! Arise from dreams of littleness to the realization of the vastness within you. You are dreaming that you are a big bee, buzzing around the poisoned honey of blossoming sense-lures.
Come, I will show you that you are the eternal fire, drinking with countless mouths the nectar-bliss hidden in the honeycombs of all hearts and all things. Feed no more your human habits with delusive human actions.
Instead, meditate constantly and love God all the time, so that your own omnipresent nature may be revived in your consciousness, displacing body-bound, sense-bound beliefs and habits.
Carry God in Your Heart Day and Night
Learn to love God as the joy felt in meditation. Victory is very near. Choose only good paths before you start hastily racing. Think of God as you start on the path of your material or spiritual duty. Think of God with each footfall of your advancing feet on your path.
Invoke God as power in the temple of consciousness during the day. Let every word and action be tinged with God-love intoxication. Talk and act sensibly, yet be drunk with God, and let every action of daily life be a temple of God’s presence. Perform every action to please Him, and in the shrine of every action, every thought, God will glisten.
Carry your love of God deep into your heart before you go to sleep, so that when you dream, you may dream of Him resting on the altar of sleep. When you go to sleep, God embraces you to His bosom as peace and joy. You are sleeping locked in His arms of tranquility. So, before you fall asleep, think that you are going to embrace Him as peace in sleep and dreams.
Hold on to Your Spiritual Treasure of Joy
Enthrone peace and joy in your own heart. Feel joy no matter whom you meet or what you do. If you can do this, though the universe shatters to nothingness or your body is torn by trials, you will find Him dancing in your memory always.
Hold on to your spiritual treasure of joy. Culture it by instilling it in other hearts. Never surrender your joy to the robbers of worry or selfishness. Hold on to your joy, no matter if death frowns at your door, or your own subconscious mind tells you, “All is lost.”
Drown all noises with the silence of your invincible joy, and you will feel God reigning on the altar of every thought and feeling. You will find that evil and misery were your own dream creations.
You slept and dreamt a nightmare of evil; you wake in God and feel only joy and virtue existing everywhere.


Have you sorted a gift for everyone yet? Sure you haven’t forgotten one? If you find you haven’t bought all of your gifts yet, be quick, so you can be sure the gifts will reach you in time!
We were curious to know more about how our customers feel about gift giving. What do we like to give? Is there anything we would prefer not to give? How much do we spend? How do we feel about digital wish lists? We found out that half of our 2000 survey participants give a gift at least once a month, spending the most on a gift for their own family, children and in-laws. So many people love looking for and finding the perfect gift, and lots of people enjoy giving gifts just because they wish to surprise someone.
We also learned that our customers tend to stick to a budget when it comes to gift-giving, but often go big for Christmas, including going all-out on Christmas decorations for themselves and others. They decorate their Christmas tree with beautiful baubles and garlands, add beautiful candles to create a cosy atmosphere and often have a special tablecloth for Christmas dinner. All in all, we seem to love showing our loved ones how much they mean to us with carefully chosen, truly personal gifts.
There are lots of different Christmas traditions around the globe. Americans like to place their gifts in Christmas stockings, many Dutch and Belgian people like to go to midnight mass and the English always have Christmas pudding and mince pies. Let’s take a look at some more countries!
In Italy, Christmas is a three-day celebration. Our Italian colleague Feliscia told us that families in Italy traditionally enjoy seafood on Christmas Eve, calling it "La vigilia di Natale". One family opens their presents on Christmas Eve, while another opens them on Christmas Day. As Italy is a Catholic country, many families go to church and then gather for a delicious lunch consisting of a starter, two main courses and a tasty dessert. The traditional desserts served at Christmas are "Pandoro", a Christmas tree cake, and "Panettone", a luxurious Italian bread with sultanas, sugared nuts and sometimes pieces of chocolate. What a feast!
Maxence is our French colleague and was able to tell us that Advent calendars are very popular in France. Both for children and adults, creating your own Advent calendar is a favourite pastime. Maxence and her family celebrate Christmas on Christmas Eve, enjoying a dinner they call "Le Réveillon". The name comes from the verb réveiller, which means to wake up. They eat a lot at Christmas, but Maxence shared that they eat very slowly, allowing them to spend as much time together at the table as possible. Did you know that, in the south of France, there is a tradition where they eat no less than thirteen desserts? Yum!
According to our Finnish colleague Jessica, Christmas in Finland is all about cosiness, light, love, family and joy. Many families go to church at Christmas, even if they are not religious, to get into the Christmas spirit and feel part of the community. Gingerbread houses are very traditional in Finland, with families coming together to decorate the biscuit shapes with sweets. Christmas is a very important time of year, because it means the days are getting longer and lighter. Did you know that the real Father Christmas comes from Finland? You can find his elves, reindeer and the gift factory in Finnish Lapland. There is a very touristy Christmas town in Rovaniemi where you can meet Father Christmas, his elves and reindeer all year round. Such fun!
How will you celebrate Christmas this year? Make sure to order your gifts in time, so you and your family can enjoy unwrapping gifts together. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas from everyone at YourSurprise!
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out our blog full of Christmas gift tips and ideas .


Protestant and catholic dating sites denuncia de documentos perdidos online dating
Catholics often forget how integral and central the Catholic faith is.
What you see as a normal experience, like confession or Eucharistic adoration, others see as totally foreign, stupid, or maybe even idolatry. If you want a successful marriage, find a couple who has been doing that for along time and ask them how to do it.
Pray for your loved one to hear God’s call and then have the will to respond with courage when he is called.
While abortion is legal in the UK, it is illegal in Northern Ireland, where it remains a contentious issue.
My actual conversion to the faith had very little to do with my husband. When I heard God’s call and told him I was converting, he didn’t make it about him, he knew it was all about God.


Welcome to SharedMission.org – an advocacy that aims to foster fellowship, positive value formation and serve others as guided by the principles of Christian faith. We initiate, participate, support and undertake projects that serve the least of our brethren and spread the good news, all for the greater glory of God.
The life we live and the words we speak bear testimony to who we are... to our faith. This coming New Year 2015, may the words we speak and the actions we take do point others to the the way, the truth, and the life with eager anticipation that all His plans for us comes to pass. Thank you all for the blessings, for being the hands and feet of our Lord Jesus Christ. Do not let "Facts" that you see overshadow the TRUTH that you have received and as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15).
SHARED MISSION: Rebuild a Life
Please join us and give to. Please consider helping our . Below are the brief info and for the fundraising site. Bless and be blessed.
Jesus said ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40 NIV)
(Photo owned by / source from http://gcura.deviantart.com)
Jesus gave his life for us… for you… for them…


1. Prayer: You must watch and pray always – the
tempter is so near (Matthew 26: 41).
2. Intercession: Intercede for all men, kings
and nations – if you choose to have peace (1 Timothy 2:
3. Deliverance: Be delivered and translated into
the kingdom of God’s dear Son, Jesus Christ and do not
be bound as the world is – know that others need this
too, be apt in helping them freely (Colossians 1:13).
Salvation is free for all.
4. Glory: Manifest the glory of the risen Christ
and let God be glorified through you (John 17: 4-6).
Glorious presence is what we need for miracles and
quantum harvest of souls.
5. Hope: There is hope for you in Christ when you
choose to believe – your desired change is on the way
when you are ready for it (Romans 4: 18).
6. Kingdom-Prosperity – Wholesomeness is God’s
delight for all kingdom citizens –choose to embrace it
and make a difference in your world (3 John 3: 2). We
are called to a kingdom and not a denomination – we need
kingdom mindset for greater exploit.
7. Holiness – is not an option if you must see
the Lord (Hebrew 12: 14).
– Divine commission of the Church is to restore one
new-man and be one – Unity of the Body of Christ is not
an option but a mandate and a commission (Ephesians 2:
13-15 and John 17: 20 – 23)


Have you ever seen someone throw a boomerang, or maybe try it yourself? The design of the boomerang, along with proper throwing technique, allows it to travel through the air and return right back to the thrower. As great of a quarterback as Tom Brady is, he cannot throw a football downfield, and then catch it without moving. But with a boomerang that is possible.
Proverbs 21:7 tells us, “The violence of the wicked will sweep them away, because they refuse to do what is just.” That verse is paraphrased in The Living Bible this way: “Because the wicked are unfair, their violence boomerangs and destroys them.”
So often in life we see wicked people become successful because of their wickedness (Have you ever heard of Washington D.C.?). We struggle with this, wondering why God allows the wicked to prosper, especially when just as often it seems that the godly struggle.
Why does God allow the wicked to get away with it? We need to think of the wicked as throwing a boomerang. It has left their hand, but it will return to them in judgment. Their own choices will “sweep them away” in the end. We also thank God that He is patient, as Peter reminds us, giving people the opportunity to repent (2 Peter 3:9). If God destroyed the wicked the second they sinned, none of us would have lived long enough to experience forgiveness ourselves.
If you are that wicked person, there is still time to repent before the boomerang returns. If there is breath in your lungs, God is giving you the chance to turn from sin and turn to Him, but you need to do it before it is too late. We never know how much time we have, but we do have the promise that our sin will find us out (Numbers 32:23).
Don’t get swept away by refusing to do what is right. When the boomerang returns to your hand it will be a day of reckoning, but if you turn your life around, you won’t be there when the boomerang comes back.


335 South Linderbergh Rd.
St. Louis, Missouri, 63131
Stay at the conference hotel for the Amazingly Low Rate of $89 plus tax. Be sure to Mention MIDLC (Midwest Leadership Conference) to Receive Your Special Discount!
37th Annual Midwest Lectureship October 17th - 19th, 2013
Regular Registration Rates Extended Through October 10th!!!
On behalf of Bro. Roy K. Morgan and the Churches of Christ in the greater St. Louis area, we want to welcome you to the 37th Midwest Lectureship. It is our prayer that this weekend will provide a source of spiritual empowerment to help your personal relationship with our Lord, Jesus Christ. These sermons, seminars, and inspirational singing sessions are designed to inform, encourage, and assist you in your walk to becoming a better Christian.
Prepare yourself to allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life and know we are here to assist you in every and anyway possible as we...
"Meet you in St. Louis"
Through October 10, 2013
After October 10, 2013
Follow The Steps Below to Receive a Discounted Rate From Enterprise Rent-A-Car:
1. Click on the button below
2. Indicate where you would like to pick up your car
3. Choose your dates
4. Enter 01RC024 in the "Coupon, Customer or Corporate Number Space"
5. Follow the prompts
6. The rental code is 37 T


Religious buildings have been around for thousands of years and don’t just provide a place of worship but often play an important role in the local community. But while many church buildings look very similar in shape and size, there are a special few that are a little more unusual. The following are 10 perfect examples of this and are some of the world’s most beautiful and bizarre churches.
Borgund Stave Church – Norway
The Borgund Stave Church in Norway dates all the way back to 1180 and wouldn’t look out of place on the set of Lord of the Rings. The wooden church was one of the first of its kind to be built on stone foundations, in order to stop the wood from rotting. The foundations certainly worked and the church is still standing today, although it is now used as a museum rather than a place of worship.


Our Lady of Lebanon Church
Schedule of Divine Liturgy
Saturday evening at 4:00 p.m.
Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m. [Rosary & Litany start at 10:10 a.m.]
Weekday Masses:Tuesday thru Friday at Noon. [Rosary & Litany start at 11:40 a.m.].
Reconciliation:Saturday: 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. or any other time by appointment
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament:
Every 1st Saturday of the month at 3:30 p.m.
Every 1st Sunday of the month after the 10:30 a.m. Liturgy
Baptism:Kindly phone the Pastor as soon as the baby is born. Godparents must be Catholics.
Weddings:Please make arrangements at least six months in advance before any other plans are made.
Sick Calls & Anointing of the Sick:Please notify the pastor any time at (304) 233-1688


PEOPLE ARE TALKING
ROOTED IN FAITH is the God-inspired title of a book detailing how His hand of favor was on Joyce Grant, from her childhood to the present. She endured with grace the loss of her husband on "911," and the loss of her adult child to cancer. She was also "given" a debilitating illness that has allowed her to appreciate every moment of precious life. How is all this called "God's hand of favor?" The answer lies in the pages of ROOTED IN FAITH.
Fifteen Minutes with Joyce Grant. Listen, and be Blessed!
To learn more about Family Radio, visit us at familyradio.org
Throughout the years, there have been many people who had encouraged my Mom to tell her story as only she knows how. Now that she's finally completed this project, I'm reaching out to all of you to make the investment to not only buy the book, but learn how you too can be an "over-comer" in life.
– Jerome Duran –
This book “Rooted in Faith” has truly touched my spirit. The book has something for everyone. It is about love, lost, faith, perseverance, struggle, best of all it is about the glory of God. I read this book in a few hours because it was so well written that I did not want to put it down. Mrs. Grant I also learned a great deal from your book. It makes me want to try harder in my daily struggles of life. The book has an anointing on it, and I truly believe that this book will save lives. Thank you for being obedient to the Lord to put your story into words that others can learn from you.
Rooted in Faith is a BIG blessing.
I was very inspired and encouraged when I read this inspirational account of this amazing woman's life. I may be a little biased, because after all, she is my mother. But there were moments in her life I had no knowledge of. It was like getting to know my mother all over again, the one I thought I knew all my life. The level of Faith she had all through her life was amazing, and her relationship and love with her heavenly Father. Even now, during all the challenges she is experiencing, will leave you breathless. I could not put this book down. It is a "must read" for everyone.
--Charles Adrian Duran
I am spreading the word about what I know is an amazing book. Love you Aunt Joyce!
Joyce’s deep love and devotion to/ for the Lord oozes out of her, she seems unable to contain His goodness in her life and is such a great example for us her fellow Christians...what an encouragement Joyce is to others with her fervency in greeting, her magnetic, contagiously warm smile and her avid sense of humor We all love her, and it is so worth it to stand in line weekly to share a quick exchange which is no small task most of the time! So this wonderful sister is an encourager, a shepherdess, great woman of faith, true friend who cares....we love you Joyce, thank you for sharing the glory of the Lord in your life with us!!
Looking forward to reading this!
Thank you for sharing your experience with us...it only helped us to see more clearly and gives us strength to continue life's journey no matter how difficult it may be..God never leaves us...
-- Sharon Gripper
Looking forward to reading your book..I remember my childhood and how you were like a second mom to me..and Joya like a sister..memories I hold near and dear to my heart..
Mrs. Grant. I am so excited for you. I look forward to reading the book. Many blessings
-- Pamela Randolph
Just read your book, given to me by a friend, David Manzi!
-- Donna Cashman
Mrs. Grant, I just purchased two books, one for myself, one for my mom. I am very much looking forward to reading it. God bless you.
-- Derrick Adkins
Hi Sis. Grant I can't wait to read your book, I know I will e blessed. God bless youmadge
-- Madge Plummer
Joyce you are such a beautiful lady inside and out, I am so happy you shared your story and looking forward to reading the book. I love miss Joyce, God bless you and yours
-- Julia Velazquez
Hello Mrs.Joyce, I just wanted you to know that I have purchased two books. One is for me and the other is for my Niece, I am truly excited and eager to read your book. I would like to thank you in advance for being such an amazing person, you are truly a blessing to me and others. Always with love,
-- Julie Jenkins.
Love you Mother Grant! You are both, blessed and a blessing!
So moved listening to you Joyce, you are truly a woman of courage, strength and faith. God will be with you always.
-- Gloria Hobbins
A blessing to support this special family. And to read about the perseverance of a Godly woman and how she’s overcoming so many challenges. God is great!
-- Sheila Greene


Thu, Nov 17|
St. Joseph Catholic Church
Meet "The Cheese Lady"
Time & Location
Nov 17, 2022, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
St. Joseph Catholic Church, 12675 Center Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686, USA
About the event
Gather at 12:30 PM. Speaker begins at 1:00 PM
Tina Zinn, Owner of The Cheese Lady Click to go to Cheese Lady website
Holiday Cheese Pairings - Say Cheese!
Members will bring food items today for Thanksgiving Baskets Project
Quote for the day: "I'd like to think that when I invite friends to my house, they know what I'm really saying is, 'I love you; come for dinner.'" Ina Garten


There are so many ways we can feel and express love. I'm very lucky that I am surrounded by people who are willing to show love for me. They teach me through love how I can do better and feel better about myself. I know everybody has different ways they show love, but each demonstration, no matter how small, is something special -- even amazing.
The lesson I taught in Sunday School class today was entirely focused on love, and we spent a lot of time talking about God's love and how He has manifested that love to us. He gave us the chance to become like Him, He sent His Son into the world so that we can return to Him, He blessed us with the Spirit so that we may follow the correct path. That's just a few things. There are so many more personal experiences I have had that help me know that God loves me. Now the challenge is to show that love to Him and to others (and even ourselves).
"Love is the triumph of imagination over intelligence." -H.L. Mencken


- 1 What are the notes for when the saints go marching on recorder?
- 2 When the Saints Go Marching In first recording?
- 3 Why do they sing When the Saints Go Marching In at soccer games?
- 4 What are the notes for Amazing Grace?
- 5 When the Saints Go Marching In Bible verse?
- 6 What instruments were used in When the saints go marching in?
- 7 Why do Tottenham song Oh When the Saints?
What are the notes for when the saints go marching on recorder?
Use the notes from When The Saints Go Marching In, try notes G, A, B, D, and E. Make up a pattern using just those notes! See if it fits using the accompaniment track! Improvising Jazz is fun!
When the Saints Go Marching In first recording?
The first known recorded version was in 1923 by the Paramount Jubilee Singers on Paramount 12073. Although the title given on the label is “When All the Saints Come Marching In”, the group sings the modern lyrics beginning with ” When the saints go marching in”.
Why do they sing When the Saints Go Marching In at soccer games?
It may be used as the team’s theme song or reserved for when they scored. Liverpool fans used it as a football chant to honour their player Ian St John in the 1960s, a song that was also adopted by other clubs. When sung by a crowd, it is often started at a very slow tempo, around 70 beats per minute.
What are the notes for Amazing Grace?
Amazing Grace in C, F, & G. ” Amazing Grace ” is a nice traditional tune, commonly sung in churches around the world. For the piano player just learning to play the melody, it provides four slightly different hand positions, which will help you continue developing your finger and keyboard awareness.
When the Saints Go Marching In Bible verse?
WHEN THE SAINTS GO MARCHING IN 1 Corinthians 1:2Holman Christian Standard Bible (HCSB) 2 To God’s church at Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus and called as saints, with all those in every place who call on the name of Jesus Christ our Lord—both their Lord and ours.
What instruments were used in When the saints go marching in?
Louis Armstrong and his All-Stars band perform the Dixieland classic ‘When the Saints Go Marching In ‘ for 1962’s Goodyear Jazz Concert. The band includes singer Jewel Brown, Trummy Young on trombone, Joe Darensbourg on clarinet, Billy Kyle on piano, Bill Cronk on bass, and Danny Barcelona on drums.
Why do Tottenham song Oh When the Saints?
They use the tune because of how well known the song is, but always change the words to their individual clubs IE when the spurs, when the town. The exception is Southampton who are known as the saints so they just sing the original. So in summary it’s a song everyone knows so it gets everyone singing.


Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Language in Christian Rock
For this post, I want to tackle another controversial debate between musicians. Is it okay for Christians to curse in their music? Furthermore, if an artist chooses to not use language, is that stifling their creativity or being legalistic? With the release of a couple controversial songs, these questions have started to arise between musicians, record labels and critics. Before I share my opinion on this issue, I want to talk about two high profile Christian artists who recently used language in their music.
First, is Derek Webb. He is most notably known as the lead singer of Caedmon’s Call. Since 2003, Webb has also ventured out by releasing quite a few solo records. In 2009, Webb released his somewhat provocative album called Stockholm Syndrome. The main point of controversy centered on the song “What Matters More.” This short, 3 minute track confronted the topic of sexuality, and Webb claimed that “What Matters More” was the most important song on the record. Because of his use of the words d**n and s**t, Webb’s label at the time, INO Records, attempted to bar the song from being on the album. A short disagreement erupted between the label and Derek Webb, but the issue was eventually resolved and the song was released.
The other major contention was on the latest album by P.O.D. The group released their highly anticipated record, Murdered Love, this past July. The final track, “I Am,” is told from the perspective of a non-Christian struggling with life and sin. Within the song, P.O.D. used a few derogatory terms like fa***t and ba****d, along with the word f**k. The word is bleeped out, but one can still easily distinguish the word, f**k, six different times. According to vocalist Sonny Sandoval, the process of thinking and praying about “I Am” was very long. Sandoval ultimately decided to use the word, but only if it was bleeped out in the song.
I want to begin by saying that I am not judging these musicians or any other Christian musician who decide to use language in their music. I am not judging their Christian faith. I have seen the ministries of many bands, including P.O.D. and Derek Webb, and I know they are doing great things for the kingdom. I am not judging their beliefs at all. I simply want to tackle the debate of language in Christian music. I do have to give these musicians credit. They have a lot of courage. Despite the opinions of critics, fans and record labels, both Derek Webb and P.O.D. are standing by what they believe.
I will shout from the rooftops about artistic freedom and expression. I think all musicians should have the freedom to sing about whatever subjects they choose. But, I have a bigger question. My question would be, “As Christians, should we take advantage of our freedom in music?” Our faith is not defined by what we do or say, but our faith is defined by our relationship with Christ. So, does that mean we have the freedom to say or do anything? My answer is no.
For all of my opinions and beliefs, I have to come back to Scripture. I want to lay out what the Bible says about using language. There are quite a few verses related to how Christians are called to act, but I just want to share three passages with you.
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” Colossians 3:8
“Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” James 3:10
Finally, when you have time, read the 14th chapter of Romans. Paul goes into great detail about making your brother or sister stumble in their walk with Christ. He is not talking about the sins that are described in detail throughout the Bible, but he is talking about things that are trivial and do not matter within your relationship with Christ. The first half of the chapter lays out how we are not defined by the beliefs of those around us, but we are identified by our relationship with Christ. In the second half of the chapter, Paul describes the act of making your brother stumble. This includes your Christian brother, as well as someone who may not know Christ. What’s interesting is that Paul condemns both good and bad behavior in the second half of Romans. He said we must not do things that make our brother falter, even if it’s something harmless or good. Meaning, if we do something that is perfectly fine and good, but it makes our brother stumble, then our actions will be counted as a sin.
I don’t want to become a legalist by simply throwing out a couple of verses. I pray every day that I do not become a legalist. However, I do not agree with artists who choose to use language in their music. The Bible does not specifically condemn certain words or phrases, but it does give us a warning. The Bible speaks, in multiple passages, about not using filthy language and causing your brother to stumble. Scripture also speaks about what comes out of your mouth. In Matthew, Jesus says that whatever comes out of your mouth is from your heart.
I believe it is the right of any band to say and sing about the subjects they want. It is their right and freedom, and I think musicians should take full advantage of it. But, I would urge Christian artists to use discretion. When bands choose to use inflammatory words, the meaning of the song is sometimes stripped away. I think both of the songs by Derek Webb and P.O.D. are phenomenal. The messages behind them are tough to swallow, but they definitely need to be said. Webb speaks about loving everyone and P.O.D. sings about Jesus dying for every sinner in our world. Yet, people lose sight of these powerful meanings by simply picking out a few, select words in a song. I fully admit that this post is also adding to the discussion. But, if bands do not want their message or song being broken down into a couple of curse words, they might want to think about not using language. Christian artists who use curse words in their music, run the risk of being defined by those few, inflammatory words.
Is it okay for Christians to curse in their music? My answer is no. If an artist chooses to not use language, is that stifling their creativity or being legalistic? Once again, my answer is no. As a Christian artist, you may want to prove a point or reach a different audience, but think about your heart. Your language does not define your relationship with Christ, but it’s still a factor in it. Even though bands have the freedom to use language, I would say use discretion. It’s much better to not use language, than to cause someone else to falter in their walk with Christ.


Real Weddings: New York Couple’s Bahamas Greek Wedding
Couple: Margarita & Nicholas
Margarita and Nicholas were frequent visitors to our islands. Naturally, when the couple decided to marry, a Bahamas Greek wedding it was!
Margarita contacted Chic Bahamas Weddings upon recommendation from a friend. As a result, we communicated, and wedding plans began!
Margarita’s vision was an intimate wedding with the closest family and friends. The bride organized ceremony details with the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. Then, it was on to plans for a reception at Blue Sail Restaurant. Guests were also hosted at a Welcome Dinner at Twisted Lime, Sandyport, the evening before the big day.
Finally, after much wedding planning, Margarita and Nicholas exchanged vows at the Greek Orthodox Church on Saturday, May 27th, 2018.
Getting ready – Tara Miller of Metamorphosis beautifully styled Margarita’s loose curls.
Indeed, favors are essential at a destination wedding. Margarita and Nicholas provided these darling hangover recovery kits for their wedding guests.
Nicholas wore a boutonniere of orchid, rose, and bird of paradise, the couple’s favorite flower. The colorful, tropical look for this gorgeous Greek Orthodox wedding was perfect.
On her way to the Greek Orthodox Church to marry her groom!
Of course, the ornate, traditional details incorporated into a Bahamas Greek Orthodox wedding ceremony.
The new Mr. and Mrs!
Bahamas Greek Wedding Reception
Then, following the ceremony, guests proceeded to Blue Sail Restaurant, Sandyport, for cocktail hour, a four-course dinner, and dancing.
Margarita and Nicholas incorporated lots of tropical detail into their reception at Blue Sail.
Cheers to the sweet couple!
If you’re planning a Bahamas wedding, please keep us in mind! Chic Bahamas Weddings plans events unique to you throughout the Islands of the Bahamas. Overall, our Bahamas destination wedding locations include Exuma, Nassau, Grand Bahama Island, Eleuthera, and Abaco. Private estates, villas, resorts are just some of the venues where we stage and produce events. Contact us today!


Philippine literature, religious, spiritual nonfiction, Cecilia Manguerra Brainard, Cebu
Published by Anvil Publishing, Inc. Finding God: True Stories of Spiritual Encounters is a collection of 18 essays about people’s true-to-life experiences of encountering God. Contributors have written honestly about their spiritual encounter after the death of a family member, or illness of self or of family members, or infidelity of a spouse, or difficulties with family members. Others write of experiencing God’s presence during childbirth, in school, during a zen-moment, and during pilgrimages to Lourdes and Medjugorje. The experiences are varied; some writers are Catholics, some are Born-Again Christians. Eleven of the contributors are based in the United States, while seven are based in the Philippines. The book thus provides a Filipino and Filipino American points of view.
Contributors are: Mila D. Aguilar, Raquel Villavicencio Balagtas, M.G. Bertulfo, Susan Evangelista, M. Evelina Galang, Evelyn Regner Seno, Tony Robles, Edgar Poma, Aileen Ibardaloza, Paulino Lim, Jr., Brian Ascalon Roley, Marlinda Angbetic Tan, Lisa B. Martinez, Felice Prudente Sta. Maria, C. Sophia Ibardaloza, Reme A. Grefalda. Cecilia and Marily also have essays in the book.
There is one thing I am sure of, and it is that God will never do anything that is bad for us. Our puny minds often cannot understand how all our sufferings can be good for us, but if we look back at our lives, we see how everything eventually works out well in the end. This is the faith that underlies the essays in this book. It is a simple faith, but a profound one.
Isagani R. Cruz, Philippine Star
My father confessor once told me, that at times one would not be able to see
God's plan until one looks back or partake in the experience of others. This
book, a collection of narratives on finding God will surely uplift our faith
as we learn from the experience of others.
Jocelyn B. Gerra,Ph.D, OPL, ( Lay Dominican), Executive Director, Ramon Aboitiz Foundation, Inc.
Finding God on earth, next to entering heaven in eternal life is, to my mind,
the greatest gift one can experience.I know that not everyone can be aware that
he or she is finding God at
precisely the moment this experience is happening, but all the contributors are to be envied, for finding God can be such an awesome moment whether it happens when one is in great physical pain or in deep spiritual anguish. I am privileged to write one of the blurbs of a book being dedicated to the memory of my dear friend, Jose de Santos Orosa, who taught me what forgiveness is all about.
Josefina T. Lichuaco, columnist, former Secretary of the Department of
Transportation and Communications
BOOK REVIEW: "Finding God" BY ALLEN GABORRO (Philippine
News, November 20, 2009)
TITLE: Finding God: True Stories of Spiritual Encounters
Edited by Cecilia Manguerra Brainard and Marily Ysip Orosa
PUBLISHER: Anvil Publishing (Manila)
158 pages, nonfiction
Distributed in the US by palhbooks.com, email firstname.lastname@example.org
“Finding God: True Stories of Spiritual Encounters” is a righteous anthology of works that focus on the mark that God has made on the book‘s writers. A total of 18 pieces have been contributed to “Finding God” which was put together and edited by author Cecilia Manguerra Brainard and book publisher Marily Ysip Orosa.
Their publication is timely, depending of course on how you would identify yourself as either a religious person, an agnostic, or as a non-believer. The book attempts to fill the void between Christian ideals and the confounding reality of our modern, secular existence by trying to inspire its reading audience into realizing a closer, more personal relationship with God. And in a time when Filipinos and Filipino Americans are ever-mindful of the pressing demands of the temporal world, “Finding God” seeks to rebrand humanity with God’s fullness and grace.
At the risk of sounding evangelistic, Brainard and Orosa have touted their anthology as nothing less than “God’s book” and that they were “His tools” in the creation of that book. A little melodramatic perhaps, but that is not to say that the true believing reader will not feel God’s presence throughout the pages of “Finding God.” In fact, it is not an exaggeration to say that the editors have indisputably attributed the conception and the production of the book to God himself.
“Finding God” finds unity in diversity as it respects the authors’ individualism and the awareness that they share something in common that is very sublime and transcendent. That something is their Christian faith and it is the glue that holds all of the book’s contributors together. Brainard and Orosa apply that faith to create a consensus of spirituality out of a collection of people who, judging from the multiplicity of their backgrounds, may not agree at all on other issues.
Foremost among the stories in “Finding God” is the anthology’s very first one, titled “Losing God” by Mila D. Aguilar. To understand Aguilar’s essay, one need look no further than her life both as a young girl and then later, as a political revolutionary. As a young girl, Aguilar determined that God did not exist, that “there was no God, that he was but a figment of man’s imagination.” Her first-hand look at poverty in the Philippines caused Aguilar to conflate the deprivation she saw with the nonexistence of God. Consequently, her mindset acknowledged no other philosophy other than atheism and communism “as the ultimate solution to social inequality.”
The images of Aguilar’s arrest and incarceration in 1984 by Ferdinand Marcos’s security forces are filled with tension, drama, and danger. Surviving her imprisonment becomes tenuous at one point, as one of her interrogators implies that her days on earth are numbered. Ironically it is at this point that Aguilar, the atheistic revolutionary, refers her fate to a divinity in her moment of impending doom: “If that is what God wills…I was as ready to die or be butchered.” Aguilar eventually finds her way to God after her release from prison following the downfall of the Marcos regime.
A spiritual being can easily find divine inspiration in the collection’s narratives for “Finding God” reverently depicts the vital spirituality that colors its assortment of stories. However, a principally secular humanist and rationalist—there are far more of them among Filipinos and Filipino Americans than one might think—would take issue with this. The book is to the Filipino Christian faithful what a prayer meeting is to a gathering of devoted attendees. “Finding God” conveys a message that is totally commensurate with the Christian worldview and ethos, but one that is also at variance with any model of critical discussion. In this sense, Brainard’s and Orosa’s publication is a microcosm of Christianity’s immutable version of compassionate conservatism and pathos.
With seemingly intricate candor, “Finding God” tries to do justice to the completeness of God by posing an interchange between the spiritual lives and faith of its contributors and those who choose to closely consider the moral and historical contradictions that surround the Christian religion. By doing so, the book’s editors deliver a spiritually sobering yet uplifting message of faith that some readers will embrace and others will take with a grain of salt.
(Photo l-r: Marily Orosa, Mila Aguilar, Cecilia Brainard, Marlinda Tan)
Cecilia Brainard Home
Copyright © 2017 Cecilia Manguerra Brainard


Yesterday there was a real Christmas spirit in the air as we performed at two events and were joined by old and new friends.
At the Bournville Gardens Christmas Fayre we had a great time entertaining the resident’s, friends and family.
This was followed by our evening concert with Bournville-Vocal-Ease Ladies Choir, St Francis Children’s Choir and Bournville Bell Choir. The event was a great success and everyone put on a fantastic performance to a packed St Francis Church.
A huge thank you to all of our friends from bands around the Midlands who helped us out at Bournville Church concert. Unfortunately some of our band member were unwell and we were grateful for the last minute support from other players (both old and new faces). That’s the spirit of Christmas and brass banding!
We’ve still got some gigs this festive season, see our events calendar for more dates!


17 July 2017
The Lord Will Do A New Thing
We were led into an extended time of worship and felt that God will do a new thing as we sang a new song unto Him. As we consecrate ourselves to Him like the Joshua generation, He is lifted high and glorified. We prayed for Him to illuminate our lives as we consecrate and give ourselves fully to Him. We released the spiritual gifts as He desires to give these gifts to His people. Even though ministries are different, and gifts are diverse, we have the same God and we are of the same Spirit. We prayed for God to raise up a standard of righteousness and set it as a plumb-line in His Church.
Psalms 96:13 was also declared,
“For He is coming, for He is coming to judge the earth.
He shall judge the world with righteousness,
And the peoples with His truth.”


Leonard has served in the NC Conference since 1984. He has served a variety of appointments, including a rural charge, a predominately African-American small town church, and two cross-racial appointments in large membership churches in the Raleigh area. In addition, he has served as a district superintendent in two different and unique districts - the Rockingham District, which is our most ethnically diverse district, and the Capital District, which is our largest district.
“I am the third of nine children born into poverty to a teenage mother, but made rich by the love, mercy, and grace of Jesus Christ. I am “water-washed and spirit-born,” called into God’s marvelous light which has led me into this great work of ministry, learning daily to see the possibilities and live the promise.
I was married to my lifelong soulmate, Priscilla Ann Russell, before she joined the church triumphant in August of 2014. I am the proud father of two adult children and three grandchildren.”
There is something about prayer that connects us in spiritually intimate ways to the unity of the triune God reminding us who and whose we are. We are “water washed spirit born” people nourished at the table of the Lord where there is room for all God’s people. In these two sacraments God invites us to drink deeply from the wells of Christ centered prayer where we discover grace, enough to see the possibilities and live the promise. I have been bathed in the possibilities of these prayers throughout my ministry and through the amazing connectional nature within the DNA of the United Methodist Church. I believe that through prayer God equips, empowers and inspires within us a Holy imagination to see the possibilities and live the promise.
Imagine an adaptive movement of “practical divinity” shaped by Scripture, reason, tradition, and experience being lived out in a world longing for authentic Christ centered transformation both collectively and individually. Imagine a movement where both social and spiritual holiness are not just head knowledge, but where we allow ourselves to become conduits, channels through which the Holy Spirit is allowed to move freely, firing our imaginations and spiritual passion for sharing the good news flowing from head, to heart, to life. Imagine a movement where leadership is concerned so deeply with making disciples who make disciples until they are willing to surrender everything they are, and everything they have to that end. I believe asking the right questions and seeing the possibilities puts every appointive pastor in a positive position to live into the promises for each community of faith to which they are appointed.
All movements have a center, a power source if you will, a place where our roots run deep, and our spirits, bodies and minds are nourished with the “Living Water” that is Jesus Christ. The center that has always shaped and informed my actions, life, and ministry has, is, and always will be the means of grace that point to Jesus Christ and the incarnational power of the Holy Spirit. I have always depended on a deep spiritual life in all matters theological, all matters of expectations, and all visions for the future. I don’t ever see that changing. From my baptism this has been the foundation for the fruitfulness and effectiveness of my ministry in the church, administratively, and sacramentally. It has been my guide in all decision making. I strive to see the boundless possibilities of God breaking forth in new and creative ways. I pray that I will never become so locked down until I forget how to dream and vision or become as they say stuck in “paralysis of analysis.” I want my life and the life of the United Methodist Church to count for Jesus Christ. That is why I am on this journey seeking the prayers of the church that launched me on this awesome calling where I’ve learned to see the possibilities and live the promise.
In order to imagine God’s preferred future we must believe it to be a possibility even in the midst of real or perceived chaos and conflict. In the face of death we have the audacity to “hope against hope.” When we anchor our belief in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ we truly begin to see the possibilities and live the promise. Therefore, we are often called to walk by “faith and not by sight.” This is the hope that binds us together and makes us stronger together. There will always be places where we disagree, but spiritual unity in the triune God is stronger still than our agendas. Whatever our opinions, Christ remains the head of the church and its future, and all proposed structure must be Christ centered. The sacramental life we share together at the Lord’s table as water washed, spirit born people is a powerful reminder of a confidence, and hope that does not disappoint. God still calls forth a people, both clergy and laity, who are willing to see with new eyes, “being confident of this that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.” –Philippians 1:6


SMFI signs MOA with MAPSA
SMFI signs MOA with MAPSA. SM Foundation, Inc. (SMFI), the socio-civic arm of the SM Group of Companies, recently signed a memorandum of agreement with the Manila Archdiocesan and Parochial Schools Association (MAPSA). SMFI and MAPSA agreed to jointly offer college scholarships to deserving high school graduates of MAPSA member schools seeking college degrees from SMFI partner schools. MAPSA scholars will enjoy 100 percent scholarship on tuition and miscellaneous fees, and stipends in the undergraduate program. In return, MAPSA will conduct spiritual and value formation seminars and activities to benefit all SM scholars to contribute to the foundation’s initiatives in bringing about holistic human development and spiritual formation to its scholars.
The agreement, which started in SY 2012-2013, has benefited 15 scholars from MAPSA schools enrolled in SMFI partner schools.
Present during the MOA signing between SMFI and MAPSA are (seated, from left) MAPSA Superintendent Msgr. Gerardo Santos, SMFI-Education Executive Director Linda Atayde, SMFI Board of Trustees Felicidad T. Sy, MAPSA chairman of the Corporate Brand Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, and MAPSA chair for Public Affairs, Networking and Linkages Rev. Fr. Elpidio “Boy” Biliran; (standing, from left) Members of the Corporate Board of Directors of MAPSA Bishop Antonio R. Tobias, D.D., Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara, D.D., Bishop Bernardino Cortez, D.D., Bishop Jesse Mercado, D.D., Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, D.D., and Bishop Gabriel Reyes, D.D.
About SM Foundation, Inc.
SM Foundation, Inc. is the socio-civic arm of the SM Group of Companies through which it helps the less fortunate in the communities it serves. The Foundation has four areas of advocacy: education through scholarship programs and donation of school buildings; health through medical missions, mobile clinics, and establishment of wellness and health centers; livelihood and community development; and the conduct of relief operations to victims of calamities. The Foundation intends to serve more communities as SM builds more malls around the country.


We were delighted to be visited by Ringmahon Rangers u16 and u18 players who were victorious in recent league and cup competitions. Our past pupils, Adam O'Callaghan, Adam Delurey, Aaron Collins and Conor Redmond came to show off their silverware along with some of their teammates. We are so proud of their achievements and we hope [...]
We had a very successful "Active Week" this week. The boys and girls went on walks, completed obstacle courses, played soccer, had a penalty competition, took part in a dance workshop and lots more! We finished off the week with a visit from the ice-cream van on Friday. Take a look at some of our pictures [...]
Congratulations to 4th class who were crowned VEX Robotics Champions 2022 in MTU today. They have spent the past few months building, coding, driving and adapting their robot to score points in an arena. Today, all of their hard work and practice paid off when they won the Teamwork Challenge, The Robot Skills Challenge and the [...]
Thank you so much to everybody who collected money for our annual sponsored walk. We were lucky that the sun was shining for the walk this week, take a look at some of our fantastic pictures! The money collected will be used to purchase new chairs for pupils. Míle Buíochas.
Junior Infants have been working very hard this term. They worked with illustrator Alan Nolan to create a comic book character. They baked some bread and grew sunflowers! Great work Junior Infants!!
Our wonderful 2nd class pupils made their First Holy Communion on Saturday 14th May in Holy Cross Church. Big thanks to their teachers Ms.Kent, Ms.McElligott and Carol for supporting and helping the children prepare for this special day!
Congratulations to our 6th class pupils who made their Confirmation on Friday 6th May. A big thank you to Mr.Collins, Ms.Coughlan and Anne who worked so hard preparing the pupils for their special day.
Pupils in 2nd class received the Sacrament of Reconciliation in Holy Cross Church. Big thanks to Ms. Kent and Carol who worked so hard to prepare the children for a beautiful mass. Fr. JP and Fr. Colin celebrated the mass with us and we were delighted to have parents/guardians with us in the church for the [...]
2nd class will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (First Confession) on Monday 4th April at 12 noon in Holy Cross Church. All children are to come to school as normal in full uniform and their teacher will bring them to the church. Parents and Guardians are welcome to attend.
Dia dhuit! This week we celebrated Seachtain na Gaeilge across the school. We had quizzes, dances, competitions and even live music from the Mahon Community Band, which featured some of our past pupils. Take a look at some of our pictures below. There are videos of each class performing a song 'as Gaeilge' on our school [...]


Everything about St. Peter's is epic, from its construction--lasting 200 years and outlasting 27 popes--to its land mass of more than five acres. These same popes helped create the city itself.
Excerpted from Basilica: The Splendor and the Scandal: Building St. Peter's by R.A. Scotti:
The modern city of Rome is the patrimony of the popes who built St. Peter's. They commissioned the fountains, gardens, palaces, churches, piazzas, and avenues that make the Eternal City a place like no other. While it would be daunting to include every commission, these walks suggest how profoundly the popes and architects of St. Peter's shaped the city. Be warned, though, these are substantial tours, and what elevates the soul can exhaust the soles.
Walk I: Starting Point: The Janiculum
1. Begin at Donato Bramante's Tempietto, the "little temple" that inspired the monumental Basilica of St. Peter. Located on the Janiculum hill in the shadow of the Church of San Pietro in Montorio, the Tempietto is a flawless miniature--the Renaissance ideal in microcosm--and its perfection moved Pope Julius II to bring the architect to the Vatican. In October 1505, Julius chose Bramante to build a new Basilica.
2. From The Tempietto, follow Via Garibaldi to Villa Farnesia once the riverside estate of Agostino "il Magnifico" Chigi, Julius II's favorite banker and confidant. Baldassare Peruzzi was the architect. Raphael frescoed the interior and designed the elegant stables where Chigi entertained Julius's successor, the Medici Pope Leo X. The celebrated stable dinner party was an ostentatious display that ended with the Chigi ordering his servants to toss his solid gold dinner plates into the Tiber.
3. Crossing the river at Ponte Sisto, picture the tumult of gold dishes cascading into the water. The bridge is named for Julius II's wily papal uncle Sixtus IV, who also built the Sistine Chapel. Turn left to Palazzo Farnese, the immodest house that Cardinal Alessandro Farnese was building when he was elected Pope Paul III. It is now the French Embassy. Three successive architects of St. Peter's also followed each other as architects of the Farnese palace.
4. At the northern end of Piazza Farnese, follow Via Vivolo del Gallo past Campo de' Fiori, Rome's boisterous open-air market, to Palazzo della Cancelleria. This massive palace was built by Julius II's cousin, Cardinal Raffaele Riario, the Vatican's chief financial officer, with money he won from another cardinal in an evening of gambling. After Julius died, the fortunes of his cardinal cousin turned. Leo X arrested Riario, charged him with conspiring in a papal assassination attempt, and confiscated his palace. The oak tree of the della Rovere-Riario coat of arms that once adorned the front of the Cancellaria was replaced with the three balls of the Medici.
5. In Piazza della Cancellaria, stop for a lunch at Ditirambo--the pasta and salads are excellent--or try Caffe Farnese in Piazza Farnese, good for either a full meal or a light pick-me-up.
6. Return to Palazzo Farnese, noting the single arch in front of the palace. This is one span of an unfinished bridge that Michaelangelo began for Paul III to link to Palazzo Farnese with Villa Farnesina across the river. By the time of Paul's papacy, the Farneses had bought Chigi's estate and renamed it.
7. From Palazzo Farnese, walk up Via Giulia, which runs parallel to the river. Bramante laid out the street for Pope Julius to create a direct route from the heart of Rome to the new St. Peter's. Although Via Giulia was never completed, it became the best address in town in the sixteenth century. Both Raphael and Antonio de Sangallo, who became wealthy men as chief architects of St. Peter's, bought land there. Raphael's House (so named even though it was built after his death) is No. 85. Sangallo's now called Palazzo Sacchetti, is No. 66. Almost five centuries later, Via Giulia remains one of the choice neighborhoods in Rome.
8. As you stroll along the avenue, note on the right the Church of Santa Caterina di Siena built by Baldassare Peruzzi, and across the street, the Church of Sant' Eligio by Raphael. Also on the left are the Sofas of Via Giulia, the beginnings of a never-completed courtyard designed by Bramante for Pope Julius.
9. Via Giulia ends with the Basilica of San Giovanni dei Fiorentini, built by Leo X for his fellow Florentines. Leo rejected the plans of both Raphael and Michaelangelo. Instead, the architects Jacopo Sansovino, Antonio da Sangallo and Carlo Maderno all worked on the church. If you require sustenance again, there is an attractive terrace restaurant called Coccodrillo at 14 Via Giulia.
Reprinted with the permission of Plume Books. For more information, visit author R.A. Scotti's official website, rascotti.com.


|Series||The people"s books|
|The Physical Object|
|Number of Pages||92|
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church - Kindle edition by Wright, N. T.. Download it once and read it on your Kindle device, PC, phones or tablets. Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church/5(). Free download or read online Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church pdf (ePUB) book. The first edition of the novel was published in May 30th , and was written by N.T. Wright. The book was published in multiple languages including English, consists of pages and is available in Hardcover format/5. A book called Growing Hope was written in documenting Hope Mission’s 80 year n by Stephen Berg, Growing Hope recounts a rich tradition of passionate staff and volunteers caring for people in need.A copy of the book can be checked out at the local library. The Power of Hope This sharing book for free distribution, focuses on mental and emotional health. It focuses on how to overcome depression, anxiety, guilt and stress in the modern world. The authors, Julian Melgosa (Psychology, University of Madrid) and Michelson Borges (Journalist and Editor, Life and Health Magazine in Brazil) teach how one.
WELCOME to the “More Stuff” book. More Stuff you need to know about Doing Mission in Your Church is the second volume of an encyclopedia of all the things you wanted to know about doing missions but didn't know whom to ask. It is a compilation of one-page . The church is a fellowship of the redeemed and the redeeming, preaching the Word of God and administering the sacraments according to Christ's instruction. The Free Methodist Church purposes to be representative of what the church of Jesus Christ should be on earth. Many have been taught or assumed that the mission of the Church is to save the whole world now. This is a logical assumption based on the teachings of many churches—but is it taught in the Bible? If this were the purpose of the Church, you would have to admit the Church. The church is mission. In this point of view, the church does not have a mission; the way of the church is the mission. The church is viewed as an enclave that is withdrawn from the world and is not so much called to impact or engage the world but to be a world in and of itself.
When I finished reading J. D. Vance’s New York Times bestselling book, Hillbilly Elegy, I had one thought: This book makes it so clear why the local church as God designed it is the hope of the world. Now, it might not be immediately obvious what a memoir of a young attorney describing what it was like to grow up in the poor, white communities of Ohio and Kentucky has to do with the local. the mission of the church Rethinking Salvation: Heaven, Earth, Hence the title of the book: hope comes as a surprise, at sev been remarkably free from tragedy; almost all my relatives have lived to a good age. I am surprised and grateful for this, and I certainly. Our subject matter that week was the present hope of the church found in Matthew – Jesus made clear His promise, “I will build My church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Right in front of us, as we studied that text for eight days, was a living example. In her book, Troubled Minds: Mental Illness and the Church's Mission, Simpson addresses the practical and theological issues that feed misunderstanding about mental illness in church communities. But she doesn’t leave her message at “do better,” she goes on to share the success stories of churches who intentionally reach out to people Reviews:


Dear praying friends,
We are safely home now and I want to fill you in on our final days in Okinawa, as we had no internet on Thursday and traveled on Friday.
Wednesday began with pancakes and a two-hour debreifing meeting for the team sponsors, senior leaders and the six Japanese pastors we were working with. The rest of the team practiced skits and testimonies for our church ministry later that day. Lunch was a special invitation from the pastors to a traditional Japanese restaurant, We enjoyed sushi, wasabi, tempura, miso soup and egg pudding (which Mr. Saito told us was his favorite as a child). Spirits were high!
We returned to the church for a quick team time before dividing into groups to attend the Wednesday night prayer services at three of the churches--Urasoe, Ginowan, and our "home base church" in Okinawa city. Each group has a story to tell, but here are some highlights: Okinawa group went to a busy street to personally invite people to the service and one woman did attend and brought her children. After skits, Solon and Ramsey gave their testimony and Mr. Saito gave a message from the Bible. At the Ginowan church, the mini team ate dinner with the pastor's family, handed out fliers, and performed two skits and Natasha gave her testimony. The Urasoe group also ate dinner with the pastor's family and then did skits for the prayer service. Kenji gave his testimony and I gave a message. A woman there commented that after hearing the testimony and message she now felt confident to write out her testimony and be baptized.
Thursday we traveled north to a "prayer house" to help with yardwork and have our team debriefing. We stopped on the way for souvenir shopping and lunch, complete with a spontaneous "Knocking Skit" for the crowd gathered there. Mr Saito and I explained the gospel bracelet to one of the shop owners, Ms. Mizno. At the prayer house we dug weeds in the afternoon and had a long, fun, and meaningful last team time with sharing and prayer about what God had done on the trip. Later that night, Natasha followed God's prompting to share the gospel with the wife of the caretaker (no translator since she was Filipino!) and prayed with her to receive Christ.
At the airport Friday a.m. we had some goodbye's with the pastors before boarding our flight for Taipei. In the immigration line at Tayouan, Kenji explained the gospel to a Japanese man standing next to him. They went all the way through baggage together before saying goodbye!
I am so thankful for this team's heart to share Christ and love people. Thank you for praying us through sickness, language barriers, and meeting so many people. I know that this week has left all of us encouraged--both on the team and in Japan. We are trusting God that our experience this past week will continue to bear fruit in our lives and those we served in Okinawa.
Brian for the whole team!


I grew up in a family of faith, in the church, surrounded by the teachings of Jesus. I was taught to read my Bible, to talk with God, to rely on Him. I believed that He was present, an authority and One who should be obeyed!
I also knew the Bible’s teachings on His compassion; He was a rock, a safety net, One who was always present even when all others fell away. Somewhere those childhood years, I was taught that God will never give me more than I could bear. I image it had something to do with the passage in 1 Cor 10:13:
No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.”
I liked this passage. It was assuring, made me feel safe and comfortable inside. The God who ran the world had me in His hand and was looking out for my affairs. Somehow, through that passage I formed this idea:
“He’s got me! And I’ll never have to deal with more than I can handle!”
I’ve heard famous preachers say it. I’ve heard friends and family proclaim it as encouragement. I’ve said it, taught it to children in the church. I believed it! But no more.
When sickness rattled my world, this “truth” I held onto was hit by the sledgehammer of life. It shattered my belief into a thousand fragments. This God was indeed giving me more than I could handle! In fact, sometimes I was so brain-dead, all I could do was exist and sleep, being too weary to even eat or drink.
For a while, I was so sickly my brain couldn’t process anything. All I could do was cry out to my Father, telling Him I hurt, that I didn’t understand what was happening, that I needed to see and know Him. And that I really didn’t understand!
Gradually, oh-ever-so-slowly, the light dawned into the weary brain that lived in my broken body as I contemplate life: “the way of escape…what is the way of escape?”
I had always assumed it was God’s hand holding back the things that would overwhelm my faith, that He’d let me get a taste of it but never allow things to reach their full force.
The way of escape? I always thought of it being my own strength and abilities, that God would never test me beyond what my own strong mind and will could withstand.
The way of escape turned out to be nothing such as I had pictured! The way of escape lay on a pathway I knew little of, one I had rarely walked. The way of escape had little to do with my own strength, but it had everything to do with my Lord and Friend!
To some of us, He does give more than we can handle. He does allow us to be overwhelmed. He allows things to meet us that we cannot possibly deal with. And the outcome?
An opportunity to experience the way of escape, a sweet reliance upon His strength. Acknowledging I cannot do it on my own. Acknowledging that I am weak, simple, incapable. Acknowledging that I won’t and can’t do it perfectly, calling out to Him for His help.
The road to be walked with broken health is difficult, whether you walk it personally or with someone else. The journey bruises and crushes so many parts of us! In many ways, its a thief, stealing what we value, sometimes even the things we thought God Himself treasured! Suddenly, the words of Jesus become sweet, hold new meaning:
“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name’s sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life” (Matthew 19:27).
Suddenly, I understand why the poor, the sick, the oppressed and broken came flocking to Jesus and His teachings while the proud and haughty leaders of the day held their heads high in disdain. Jesus spoke of a hope and strange sort of strength that some couldn’t recognize when there was no awareness of need or emptiness.
Those within the crowds had been faced with more than they could handle. The reality of our broken world got the upper hand and crushed ’em mercilessly. Jesus’ words were refreshment for the soul. God knew! God saw! God heard! And one day, He would set everything right, yes, and then some!


19/03/2022 at 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm
St Mary’s Church, Hadlow,
Maidstone Road, Hadlow,
Saturday 19th March at 7pm in St Mary’s Church with hot supper.
Teams of up to six, bring your own drinks.
Booking essential: Contact Janice 01732 851519 or email firstname.lastname@example.org – or add your name to the sheet at the back of the church.


Ph.D. in Theology is a 3-year doctorate degree program, the minimum eligibility is master degree in Theology from a recognized college or university or its equivalent exam. Admissions for such program rely upon the counseling after clearing entrance exam depending on the colleges.
Some of the top colleges and institutes which provide admission to Ph.D. in Theology are as follows:
- Christ University, Bangalore
- Fergusson College (IFC), Pune
- Madras Christian College MCC, Chennai
- Union Biblical Seminary, Pune
The average tuition fee charged for Ph.D. Theology program in India ranges between INR 1,000 to 4 Lacs, for a span of 3 years.
Ph.D. in Theology program offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of religious traditions and the impact that they have had and continue to have, on the world in which we live today. The program focuses on the development of theological beliefs and practices across different religions, with special emphasis on Christianity and western civilization. Theology is a liberal arts program and is open to all, irrespective of beliefs or religious or non-religious background. It provides a vital space for critical dialogue in today's multi-religious societies.
The Programme will enhance proficiency in another language or languages and will increase international career opportunities. The aim of Ph.D. in Theology program is to introduce candidates in an efficient way to the group of intelligent learning that is the traditional train and discipline of theology as a methods for getting ready men and ladies for all-around participation in the life of the church and, if candidate so pick, for service in at least one regions of peaceful practice. Candidate will be able to decipher, interpret and communicate the Scriptures. It is specially designed as the basic training and equipping of Christians for vocational as well as ministry in the local church.
Such postgraduates are hired in capacities such as Healthcare Worker, Religious Teacher, Missionary, Relief Worker, Children's Pastor, Resident Director, Non-profit Program Administrator etc. The average salary for Ph.D. in Theology graduates is around INR 2 to 12 Lacs but this can be higher on the basis of experience and other factors.
Top Colleges for Ph.D. (Theology)
Ph.D. in Theology: Course Highlights
Given below are some of the main highlights of the course
|Course Level||Doctorate Degree|
|Duration of the Course||3 years|
|Eligibility||Master Degree in related subject|
|Admission Process||Entrance exam and personal interview|
|Average Course Fee||INR 1,000 to 4 lacs|
|Average Starting Salary||INR 2 lacs to 12 Lacs|
|Top Recruiting Companies||Basilica of Bom Jesus, Velankanni Church, Christ Church, Medak Cathedral, Santhome Church, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church etc.|
|Top Job Areas||Educational Institutes, NGOs, Worship Places, Religious Organisations, Financial and Legal Firms, Charities etc.|
|Top Job Positions||Healthcare Worker, Religious Teacher, Missionary, Relief Worker, Children's Pastor, Resident Director, Non-profit Program Administrator etc.|
Ph.D. in Theology: What is it all about?
Theology is the systematic study of the existence and nature of the divine and its relationship to and influence upon other beings. This course is inter-disciplinary, combining biblical studies, church history, systematic theology and Christian ethics with an optional stream comprising professional ministry studies such as pastoral care, Christian education, and preaching. And it is ecumenical, dealing with the Christian tradition in all its diversity.
Ph.D. in Theology concentrates on the supernatural, divine or sacred and the moral code, dogmas, ritual practices, values and associated institutions. Religion has a few capacities that are communicated through the human conduct such as social function, anxiety reduction, compensation, character, and identity. This interdisciplinary field studies the impact of religion in the international environment and the presence of traditions in the modern world. Research focuses on different approaches to religions and its place in history.
The course is concerned with the study of the spiritual beliefs and their particular characteristics and their expression in nowadays society. Ph.D. in Theology degree can spend significant time in culture, struggle, librarianship, financial aspects, geology, history, and others.
Those who want to understand theology in dialogue with other fields of study, including philosophy, social justice, ecology, ethics and women's studies are suitable for it. They also possess research and analysis skills; the ability to interpret and synthesize different types of information; the ability to understand the meaning of complex written documents. Students also have organizational and time management skills; presentation skills; the ability to formulate questions and solve problems.
It is beneficial for an intellectually rigorous study of the Christian faith from the perspective of Christian traditions and thought. The course provides a thorough grounding in the breadth of theological scholarship that recognizes the diversity of the Christian tradition. It focuses on exegesis and hermeneutics (Biblical interpretation and application) and related subjects in Christian Theology, all delivered within an Evangelical environment. The course equips students to study the Bible, so they can determine what it says and means.
Ph.D. in Theology: Top Institutes
Given below are some of the top institutes in India that offer the course
|NAME OF INSTITUTE||CITY||AVERAGE ANNUAL FEES|
|St. Stephen's College, Delhi University||New Delhi||INR 69,500|
|Lady Shri Ram College (LSR)||New Delhi||INR 28,600|
|Loyola College||Chennai Tamil Nadu||INR 10,000|
|Christ University||Bangalore Karnataka||INR 9,300|
|Miranda House Delhi University||Delhi||INR 21,300|
|Fergusson College (IFC)||Pune Maharashtra||INR 6,200|
|Madras Christian College MCC||Chennai Tamil Nadu||INR 65,700|
|Hindu College, Delhi University||Delhi||INR 22,400|
|Hans Raj College Delhi University||New Delhi|
|Ramjas College Delhi University||Delhi||INR 9,380|
|Union Biblical Seminary||Pune||INR 89740|
Ph.D. in Theology: Eligibility
Students need to have qualified Masters degree (Master in Theology, M.Th.) to be eligible for the admission to this course. Some Institutes also ask for an M.Phil. degree in a related discipline to be eligible for the course.
Ph.D. in Theology: Admission Process
The admission process for Ph.D. in Theology program may vary from college to college. While the admissions in the August month are open to all qualified categories of competitors. Admission is offered on the basis of an interview held typically a month prior to the starting of the semester for which admission is looked for. The interview can be supplemented by an entrance exam, if necessary.
Following are a few entrance tests that are conducted by some of the Ph.D. in Theology colleges in India:
- Christ University Entrance Exam
- Fergusson College (IFC) Entrance Exam
- Madras Christian College MCC Entrance Exam
- Union Biblical Seminary Entrance Exam
Ph.D. in Theology: Syllabus and Course Description
A year-wise breakup of the course’s syllabus is tabulated below.
|Subjects of Study|
|History and Hermeneutics||Constructive Theology and Theological Ethics||Practical Theology|
|Biblical Studies||Constructive Theology||Church and Society|
|Church History||Theological Ethics||Homiletics|
|Liturgical Studies||Religious Education||Evangelism and Missiology|
|Mission Studies||Spirituality Studies||Congregation and Community|
Ph.D. in Theology: Career Prospects
Theology is rewarding to study, but many are justifiably concerned with the career options offered by a degree in theology. Luckily, philosophy instructs various important abilities that assistance to make applicants of Theology focused in various professions, both religious and mainstream.
Teachers of philosophy are frequently very much associated with religious establishments and can give the guidance and contacts that can open the way to occupations in philosophy. It is imperative to take note of that a significant number of the vocations in Theology recorded above require extra, propelled think about in philosophy. Obviously, the professions open to the applicants of philosophy are not restricted to religious ones. Theology can likewise give brilliant way to applicants who need to seek after mainstream work.
|JOB POSITION||JOB DESCRIPTION||AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY|
|Religious School Teacher||Religious School Teacher responsible to instruct school children about God and Religion.||INR 1Lac to 1.5 Lac|
|College Faculty||College Faculty is responsible to teach the purpose of humanity at the college level.||INR 1 to 3 Lacs|
|Minister of Church||Minister of Church is in charge of serving the sermons at church and conducts prayer.||INR 2 to 3 Lacs|
|Social Worker||Social Worker is responsible to works for the society and helps the deprived.||INR 1 Lac to 2 Lac|
|Bible Translator||Bible Translator is in charge of translating the language of Bible into the simpler language to be readable by others so that they understand its true meaning.||INR 1 Lca|


ATTRIBUTES/NAMES OF GOD
Presented by Sidney Allen Crim at the AHS Class of 1968 October 7, 2018 Worship Service
I want to welcome everyone here this morning. I’m reminded of a scripture in Acts that says the Lord has determined our pre-appointed times and the boundaries of our dwellings. It was no accident that we graduated as a class from Amarillo High School in 1968. And we’re here, now, in this room 50 years later, because each one of us was meant to be here. We have certainly had time to witness the effects of the fall in the Garden of Eden, one clearly being the decline of the human body. But we’ve also had time to hear the Good News…that it doesn’t end here. I know Don will share more about that later in his message. We’ve all experienced losses, trials, and tribulations in life, and as we age, they just seem to increase and get more severe. We have an adversary on earth whose full-time job is to cause us to doubt God. That list of doubts is almost endless and is tailor made for each one of us, coming particularly at a masquerader, a schemer, a deceiver, and comes falsely as an angel of light. But the more we know God, the better equipped we are to fight this enemy, our doubts, and even our own fickle feelings. I began compiling a list of God’s attributes and names that He laid on my heart a few years ago and have continued to add to it, though it is incomplete at that. It is certainly more endless than any doubts, fears, or difficulties we may face. That list was included in your worship bulletin. In the interest of time, I chose six attributes to talk about that have ministered to me. I’ll give a few definitions to grasp the full meaning, as well as some scriptures.
1. Sufficient: enough to meet the needs of demands of a situation; able
2 Cor 12:9 My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.
2 Cor 3:5 Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us,
but our sufficiency is from God.
Spurgeon: The Lord Jesus is sufficient to uphold, to strengthen, to comfort, to make
trouble useful, to enable us to triumph, to bring us out of 10,000 trials, and to take us
home to heaven. Whatever is good, Christ’s grace is sufficient to bestow. Whatever
would harm, His grace is sufficient to avert. Whatever we need, His grace is sufficient to
give if it is for our good. Whatever we would avoid, His grace can shield if His wisdom
2. Love: tender concern and regard; deep devotion/attachment/or affection for; to embrace, delight in, take pleasure in; unselfish loyalty and benevolent concern for the good of another; to hold dear, cherish, treasure, value.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
Rom 5:8 But God showed His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
1 John 4:8 God is love.
God doesn’t just love. He is love. And His love is unconditional. It can’t be earned. It, like salvation, is a free gift.
3. Rest: A small word but full of meaning: refreshment; relief from distress, annoyance, or weariness; peace of mind or spirit; mental and emotional calm, tranquility; a stopping place, shelter, support; quiet; to remain still; to be directed firmly or fixed; to rely, depend on; to keep; freedom from labor, anxieties, or disturbance; to remain confident, to trust
Matt 11:28 Jesus said, Come to Me all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Jer 31:25 He also said, “I will satisfy the weary soul and every languishing soul I will replenish”.
Jesus is our rest.
4. Timeless/Infinite: not restricted or affected by time or date; having no beginning or end; enduring, everlasting, imperishable, forever the same, never stopping, always true.
Deut 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.
Ps 31:14-15 But as for me, I trust in You, O Lord, I say, “You are my God.” My times are
in Your hand.
With 5 children, work, and caring for my mom who lived with us for a number of years, I
witnessed God ordering everything concerning me, my responsibilities, and my loved
ones with impeccable timing because He is outside of it and knows the beginning from
5. Perfect: complete; without defect or omission; flawless; excellent, exact, pure, absolute, satisfying all requirements, lacking in nothing, certain, sure.
Job 37:16 Do you know the balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of Him who is perfect in knowledge.
2 Sam 22:31 This God – His way is perfect; the word of the Lord proves true; He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him.
6. Relational: closely connected; associated; interdependent; similar nature, goals
God is a relational God. He is Triune: God the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit. Not only is He relational in nature, but He is all about relationship desiring a relationship with us.
All of His attributes are perfect. Each one is infinite. They are immutable so they are constant and never changing. They are harmonious, so His justice is not compromised by His love. Each one is inexhaustible, no matter how many times we come to Him in need. God is true and trustworthy. We can entrust our lives to Him even when we don’t know the why’s. We are not to lean on our own understanding, but in all our ways to acknowledge Him, who possesses perfect wisdom outside of time, knowing everything there is to know past present, future in what we would call “a split second”, and He promises to make our way straight. He cannot lie.
He is truth. As difficulties mount, our bodies weaken, and we near the end of our road here on earth, we can be certain about Him and that this is not all there is! The best is yet to come if we are His. We will see Him one day as He is in all of His glorious attributes, including far more than any human mind, especially mine, can conceive.
Sidney Allen Crim


New Sports Courts at St John’s College
Our Sports Courts Project is now complete! We extend our deep gratitude to His Eminence, Archbishop Makarios of Australia, whose Name Day Dinner donations funded the basketball/netball/tennis and rounders courts. I would also like to thank and acknowledge our hard-working Parents’ Association which funded the Futsal Court. We deeply appreciate the generosity of the St John’s College and the wider community.
The sport courts project will be officially opened by His Eminence on St John’s Day – which we hope can be celebrated on September 15th depending upon restrictions.


Gates’ book explains the prominent roles of places of worship – from slave rebellions to politics.
TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE
BY DR. GLENN C. ALTSCHULER
SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA COURIER
“I am many things to many people. Civil rights leaders, agitator, troublemaker and orator,” Martin Luther King, Jr. once proclaimed. “But in the quiet resources of my heart, I am fundamentally a clergyman, a Baptist preacher. The church is my life and I have given my life to the church.”
For many African Americans, over many centuries, religion – and the churches in which they worshipped – have been lifelines. Black churches, Henry Louis Gates, Jr. reminds us, “planted, watered, and nurtured” African American culture.
They played prominent roles in slave rebellions, the Underground Railroad, abolitionism, anti-lynching, school desegregation, and voting rights.
Book and documentary
These days, although “the Black Church” is diverse and contested, religion remains very important for about 80% of Blacks in the United States, more than any other group.
In “The Black Church,’’ Professor Gates, director of the Center for African and African American Research at Harvard, author and co-author of 25 books and creator of 21 documentaries, including “Finding Your Roots,’’ provides a history of institutions that have been central to the struggle for equality, freedom, and justice in the United States.
Designed to complement a four-hour PBS documentary on this subject, “The Black Church’’ covers a lot of ground, although at times it jumps from topic to topic, stringing together quotations from scholars, ministers, musicians, and public figures, many of whom appeared as talking heads in the series.
Identified with Christ
When they became Christians, Gates notes, slaves, as many Whites had feared, often embraced radical ideas.
They emphasized Exodus motifs, with a God and a Moses who declared “Let my people go. ”More than messages about servants obeying masters and rewards dispensed in heaven, they identified with the persecution of Jesus, the liberating message of the Cross and the Resurrection.
Risking their lives, slaves created “invisible institutions,” make shift structures and gatherings by the riverside, to which they could “steal away.”
When their “masters” allowed them to worship, first in “praise houses” built with branches and brushes and then churches, they made them spaces for fellowship and community, where congregants answered to nobody but God.
Worship, then politics
Following the abolition of slavery, the influence of Black churches expanded.
Viewing literacy and education as essential to the success of freedmen (and women), churches established what are now called HBCUs, initially to train ministers and teachers.
As if in answer to the clarion call of Frederick Douglass (“slavery is not abolished until the black man has the ballot”), Black churches, Gates emphasizes, became sites where worship was preceded or followed by political meetings, debates, and get-out-the-vote drives.
A century later, White supremacists bombed churches, as warnings to Black activists.
Black churches, of course, were often divided on theology, modes of worship and politics.
Salvation and liberation
Some preachers and congregants disapproved of singing, dancing and excessive displays of emotion, deeming the spirituals performed throughout the United States and Europe by the Fisk Jubilee Singers as “cornfield ditties.”
These concerns were reprised in the 20th century over blues, jazz, rap, and hip hop.
By contrast, Gates points out, speaking in tongues evolved from a much-maligned form of ecstatic worship to a doctrinal component of sanctification in the Pentecostal faction of the Church of God in Christ.
“The lifeblood” of most church congregations, Black women, like Ella Baker, Mahalia Jackson, and Fannie Lou Hamer, Gates writes, were and remain “overlooked leaders in the fight not only for salvation, but for liberation.”
“The Black Church’’ concludes on a personal note. Gates reveals his fears of the Holy Ghost and his profession of faith in the small, segregated West Virginia town in which he was raised.
Black churches, he now realizes, are “consecrated theaters where the Word and Song can combine as a site of conjuration… recapitulating the journey that our ancestors’ spiritual practices brought along with them as they trod that Dixie Pike out of Africa.”
Even for those who are not true believers, the church is a space where all know their parts, where everyone can judge everyone else’s performance, “often out loud with amens, with laughter, with clapping, or with silence. It’s the space we created to find rest in the gathering storm. It’s the place where we made a way out of no way.”
Dr. Glenn C. Altschuler is the Thomas and Dorothy Litwin Professor of American Studies at Cornell University. He wrote this review for the Florida Courier


The Christmas party was held on the 8th of December 2006. This event is always enjoyed by all members of Help Benidorm. The housebound also attend and it really is the highlight of their year.
Tony Hay, a local entertainer and some of his church members, including children, started the afternoon's entertainment. The Christmas carols were lovely and many joined in with the singing.
Vince Tracey and his wife Anne continued with the entertainment and Vince soon had everyone laughing at his numerous jokes.