Bible Study from Calvary Chapel Newberg
with Tom Fuller
The Amazing Open-Hearted Mary
As we left off last time, the angel Gabriel had announced to a priest named Zechariah that he and his wife Elizabeth, though old, would have a son. This boy would be a preparer of hearts—preparing the nation in repentance for a great work that God would do. Zechariah reacted poorly—demanding proof that he could reason out. Because of his lack of faith the angel struck him dumb and likely deaf. Unable to bless the people after leaving the Temple, Zechariah eventually returned home, had relations with Elizabeth who became pregnant. Her response was totally different than her husband’s. She knew her lack, acknowledged that it was God who was doing the work and that it was an act of grace personally for her.
Luke in writing this gospel is trying to answer a question for a man named Theophilus: who is Jesus and can He be trusted? Now we get into starting to form an answer to that question in verses 26 through 38 of Chapter 1.
Who is He? Jesus is a human born of an earthly mother (who was a virgin) who had no earthly father.
One month after Elizabeth comes out of seclusion, the story picks up again:
“In the sixth month” refers to Elizabeth’s sixth month of pregnancy. Gabriel once again gets instructions from God, this time to go to Nazareth and locate a young girl named Mary.
Nazareth was a fairly small village in the Galilee region of Israel. Contrast Gabriel’s first visit: to the capitol of Israel and to the most holy place in Jerusalem: the Temple. Now Gabriel goes to one of the most humble places in Israel. Nazareth was really not much more than a stopping off place for Roman soldiers on their way to and from Sidon. It’s located along the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee and halfway to the Mediterranean.
Nazareth was a tiny (population 500) agricultural town with no trade routes, of little economic significance and was never mentioned in the Old Testament. In fact, it wasn’t until 1962 that there was any pre-Christian record that this town ever existed. So we go from the top to the very bottom of society.
Paul would write later about Jesus—His hometown mirroring His coming to humanity—in the most humble way possible:
Phil. 2:7 “He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men.”
So Gabriel comes to a humble place—and instead of being sent to one of the highest members of society—a priest—he comes to one of the lowest: a teenage girl named Mary.
Mary was somewhere between 12 and 14 years old. Just stop for a moment and consider this: of all the people in the world, God chose a young girl of marriageable age of no particular importance.
Can I just stop here and say that we should never discount someone who wants to serve the Lord, even if they don’t meet our expectations of being “old enough.” Her father was Heli or Eli (3:23), of whom we know nothing except that he traced his line back to King David.
Mary was engaged to a man named Joseph, who was a carpenter, though the Greek word can mean something along the lines of general contractor. Engagement, or betrothal, is very different now. Back then a couple got engaged and were legally married—they’d have to divorce in order to separate. But at the same time they could not enjoy the physical intimacy of marriage for a year—presumably time to prove the innocence of the woman and for the husband to prepare a home for his bride.
Joseph was also related to King David. This is important because of what God promised David:
2 Samuel 7:11 “‘The LORD declares to you: The LORD Himself will make a house for you. 12 When your time comes and you rest with your fathers, I will raise up after you your descendant, who will come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. 13 He will build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. 14 I will be a father to him, and he will be a son to Me.”
28 – 29
So Gabriel appears to Mary, probably in the same way as Zechariah, but different than Joseph (Matthew 1:20) who saw the angel in a dream. I think it’s very interesting that Gabriel does not say “Do not be afraid,” right off the bat, but tells Mary that she is “favored” and tells her to “rejoice.” Some translations render this “Hail!” and it can mean that in the idea of “be well” but it isn’t used by Luke in this way elsewhere so it seems that the angel really wants her to rejoice—yet she doesn’t do that, at least not right off.
I’m not sure of the significance, but it is clear what Mary focuses on: the idea of being “favored” and that “the Lord is with you” “deeply troubles” her. The word diatarasso can mean: “intensely going back-and-forth (to-and-fro) between inner thoughts and emotions”.
Perhaps this is because of Mary’s status in society. She’s practically at the bottom rung socially—so why would God favor her or even be with her. I wonder if she thought “did I do something wrong?” Being in the presence of a supernatural being, and him saying that Yahweh is with you—ought to strike fear into our hearts. When Isaiah saw the Lord “high and lifted up”, his first response was “Woe is me!”
Mary’s kind of attitude is so healthy—Mary knows she doesn’t deserve God’s presence, much less His favor. As we approach a holy God there ought to be somewhat of a surprise that God would love us enough to send a Savior to rescue us and make us His own.
By the way, since this is so personal—even getting to Mary’s thoughts—it seems pretty likely that Luke actually talked to Mary to get this account from her.
30 – 33
30 - So first off the angel says, basically, “you’re not in trouble Mary, quite the opposite, so don’t be afraid.”
31 – Gabriel says that Mary that she will become pregnant and have a baby boy. She’s to call Him Jesus—or Joshua in Hebrew (Yeshua), which means “God saves” or “Yahweh is salvation or deliverance”. Talk about stripping your gears. This is far more than the miracle that Elizabeth experienced because Mary’s a virgin. The name Jesus is more than just a common boy’s name in Israel—because in this instance it speaks of the purpose of this child—and the first real hint at answering the question: Who is this man? He is a savior, a deliverer.
32 – Saying that Jesus will be “great” is an understatement. Gabriel then qualifies it by saying He will be God’s Son—this is a hint of how this pregnancy will occur—without the agency of a human father. But a human father will adopt him—Joseph. This gives Him a lineage that goes back to King David, and the promise of 2 Samuel 7 that we saw earlier. But He will not be just another human king.
33 – Jesus will, in fact, reign forever on David’s throne. So answer #1, Jesus will be a savior. Answer #2, He will be a forever king.
But notice something—Mary doesn’t, at this juncture, think about the big picture. As a 12-14 year old girl, she’s focused on what’s about to happen to her body and how in the world this could take place!
Mary knew enough about anatomy and physiology to know that unless two humans are intimate there won’t be a baby. She’s not asking out of unbelief and doubt like Zechariah (Luke 1:18) but out of curiosity and puzzlement.
And you know, when we honestly ask God tough questions, He is more than happy to answer, as the angel does.
Gabriel explains the process in this way: the Holy Spirit will “come upon” you. The idea of the Greek here is the fitting result from the action of coming upon something. “Overtake” is another way to translate it. Then the Spirit will “overshadow” which means: “to cast a shadow upon”. This would be act of God placing the seed to fertilize one of Mary’s eggs.
It should remind us of Genesis 1, where God’s Spirit was “hovering over the surface of the waters.” God overshadowed creation and created something out of nothing. Much the same thing happens here.
It also is a direct fulfillment of Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive, have a son, and name him Immanuel” (Immanuel, by the way, means: “God with us” like Gabriel said: “God is with you.”).
Because of this, Jesus will be God’s son, not Joseph’s son. It means Jesus will be the only human ever born without sin (1 John 3:5). The rest of us can’t say that:
Psalm 51:5 “Indeed, I was guilty when I was born; I was sinful when my mother conceived me.”
So Gabriel says Jesus will be “holy”, without sin, and God’s Son.
The idea of God’s Son goes back to Daniel 3 where Nebuchadnezzar threw the three Hebrew boys into the fire and then saw four men in there—with one like the Son of God.
And one of the most beautiful passages of Scripture about Jesus as God’s Son:
Isaiah 9:6 For a child will be born for us,
a son will be given to us,
and the government will be on His shoulders.
He will be named
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.
7 The dominion will be vast,
and its prosperity will never end.
He will reign on the throne of David
and over his kingdom,
to establish and sustain it
with justice and righteousness from now on and forever.
The zeal of the LORD of Hosts will accomplish this.
Finally, Gabriel connects Mary back with Elizabeth (her aunt or cousin).
36 – 37
News probably hadn’t reached Mary’s family yet that she was pregnant in her old age—another miracle (although not quite as miraculous as a virgin getting pregnant!). Gabriel’s point—if God can do that in Elizabeth, He can do this in you!
So now look at Mary’s response—much like Elizabeth’s:
Mary may or may not have thought ahead to what this news would mean to her—a young girl pregnant while betrothed. Her story: God got me pregnant. Would you believe it? The stakes were high—including death. Yet she accepted it as a humble servant.
So really, how much do we to accept what God brings us with this kind of humility and willingness?
Mary knew what was coming—but sometimes we don’t know—we get blindsided by grief or tribulation in some form or another. But really as a Christian we should never be totally blindsided. Jesus Himself said: “In the world you will have tribulation” but He also said: “be of good cheer for I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
- 1.Jesus provides purpose to our troubles. God uses them.
- 1:24 “I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church”. The purpose is to further God’s kingdom.
- 2.God overcomes them.
- 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”
- God then gives us peace in them (“These things I speak to you that you may have peace”).
John 14: 27 “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
- 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”


Krump is hope, life, regeneration. He arms us with the sword, the Word of God, to stand against the enemy’s lies. The weapons of this warfare are not fleshly human weapons but spiritual weapons such as truth and righteousness, blessings and curses, forgiveness and repentance. is extremely intense and relentless spiritual warfare. Krumping (also clown dancing or clowning) is a style of dance that originated in the African-American community of South Central Los Angeles, California. The Great Battle.
Four Steps to Fighting Spiritual Warfare by Rick Warren — Ap “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 6:12 NIV). Spiritual warfare is a battle between the kingdom of darkness ruled by Satan and the kingdom of light ruled by God and His Son Jesus Christ. Ardustry Home Entertainment (). Inspirational stories of game-changers of the industry will be masterminded by Cannon aka Jr. One author, the "fireman prophet" Mark Taylor, claims he received a direct prophecy from God SPIRITUAL WARFARES OF KRUMP in telling him Trump would become president.
What they do is known as "intercessory prayer. Some of my favorite times with everyone. God can effectively operate through it. They must be thoroughly prepared for SPIRITUAL WARFARES OF KRUMP battle from the top of their heads to the soles of their shoes. 0 out of 5 stars 2 ratings. Ceasare Willis is an actor, known for Step Up Revolution (), Be Cool () and Kickin&39; It Old Skool (). Spiritual Warfares of Krump Kokie nassim (Director) Rated: NR. Kokie Nassim is a director and editor, known for Battle for Existence (), Animosity () and Blood Brothers ().
One of the best and most accurate descriptions of what we see happening in Washington D. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Krump 4 Movie Pack: 1. We just have to not cross into operating in the flesh as we do it. The seven sons of Sceva are an example of what can happen when people presume an authority they have not been given (Acts 19:13–16). "Everything that occurs in the visible, physical world is directly connected to the wrestling match being waged in the invisible, spiritual world," she said. 98 Additional DVD options: Edition Discs Price. Satan realizes that if he can change or influence what you think then he can change or influence how you behave. Directed by Kokie Nassim.
Free 2-day shipping. And because of that, we tend to seek non-spiritual solutions. 0 & Spiritual Warfares of Krump at Amazon. Krump was started for those who needed an alternative to violence. &39;ummies ta da roight o me. The District will be a catalyst – a medium for the free. You want to grow wise and to understand people and.
Spiritual Warfare and Prayer Missions Prayer Meeting Devotional. Go deeper than ever before inside the KRUMP families. Spiritual Warfares of Krump Kokie nassim (Director) Rated: NR. Krump Kings (production entity) Distributors. View Important links below description! Krump is passion. Operating on spiritual side of your individuality can bring you to the great heights, and drop you off if you neglect your spiritual identity.
Here are 7 powerful prayers you can pray to withstand Satan and stay strong in these hard times of spiritual warfare. It&39;s a spiritual outlet that allows its artists an escape, a means of expressing themselves, and a means of being free. Showing all 2 company credits. Spiritual Warfare - Ephesians 6:10-13. soz der i wuz in da middle o a good krumpin fight. A large number of Christians throughout the world consider themselves to be spiritual warfare prayer warriors.
Spiritual Warfares ( Video) Company Credits. through 13, you will learn about offensive and defensive warfare, how to use the weapons of your warfare, and natural parallels of spiritual warfare. Web Page by Brian Borgman. The portal will feature extensive collections of creative images, films, and music, as well as provide content that inspires EDUCATION and EMPOWERMENT. More SPIRITUAL Warfare OF KRUMP images. As for spiritual warfare, the ultimate victory is already God’s, but we WARFARES are called to be soldiers of Christ in this present battle against evil. &39;ummies in frunt o me.
INVASION: During an invasion in the natural world, an army enters the actual combat zone to conquer its foes and claim territory. The District is a comprehensive portal for KRUMPERS across all generations. 0 & Spiritual Warfares of Krump at Walmart. Satan tries to influence what you think by the strategy of enticement and deception. Spiritual warfare K R U M P 🔱 3 Hi Trichy this is for you A big shout out from aka Soulja beast aka spread Feel free to join find your freedom krump art. Read honest and unbiased product reviews from our users.
Spiritual warfare fills the pages of scripture. In this message, I&39;m going to share multiple examples of real life spiritual battles I have experienced in my Christi. God calls upon every one of his soldiers to take up their armor and join in the battle. It didn’t stop there, that same angel went ahead to stop the enemy King Herod by Killing Him, Acts12:23. Spiritual Warfares of Krump Go deeper than ever before inside the KRUMP families. Krump is transformation from the self to the spirit. " Most likely these prayer warriors are connected to a deliverance ministry (not a recommended site).
Basic training is useless unless what is learned is put into action. In Matthew 4 and Luke 4 while undergoing intense temptation, Jesus fought Satan in hand to hand combat in the desert and won. It involves elaborate face-painting and freestyle dance moves usually performed in competition with other crews. The mind is the battleground where spiritual warfare is won or lost.
Also, this Spiritual Warfare Prayers and Decrees Handbook Manual will help you succeed in victory in the spiritual realm. Audio/MP3 by Timothy J Keller. I pray that God will give you strength daily as you face the trials and tribulations of this world. Watch Queue Queue. There is no set formula to win a battle. A word of caution concerning spiritual warfare is in order. See more videos for SPIRITUAL Warfare OF SPIRITUAL WARFARES OF KRUMP KRUMP. Moreover, this book, spiritual warfare prayers and decrees At War Prayer Manual will help you win over the enemy.
den dis une &39;ummie wid dis big o choppa dun cuts past a bunch o da odder &39;ummies ta face me. &39;ummies ta da lift o me. The Truth About Spiritual Warfare. Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Spiritual Warfares of Krump at Amazon. The Intercessors for America guide offered five prayer strategies to combat the “occultist activity aimed at the president”: Seek God for His instruction on how to battle for President Trump. You are always looking for an opportunity to investigate the unknown, to use and show your mental abilities, to find the purpose and meaning of life.
Spiritual Warfare: A Biblical and Balanced Perspective. This is the best workout DVD for everyone - from beginners to athletes. Ceasare Willis, Actor: Step Up Revolution. The name of Jesus is not a magic incantation that causes demons to flee from before us.
Spiritual warfare K R U M P 🔱 3 Hi Trichy this is for you A big shout out from aka Soulja beast aka spread SPIRITUAL WARFARES OF KRUMP Feel free to join find your freedom krump art Including rare footage of a street KRUMP session, held at night and interrupted by police and helicopters, where the Krump dancers were almost arrested. Raul Moran Recommended for you. He equips us with strength, wisdom, and discernment through His own Spirit to stay strong in the spiritual warfare. The state of the Krump game, how it used to be and what has become of it. Buy Krump 4 Movie Pack: 1. A number of pastors and spiritual leaders have claimed Trump&39;s election was a "reprieve" for America and a response to prayer. Kokie Nassim, Director: Battle for Existence.
"Spiritual Warfares of Krump. We see that in the political theater of our government, there is much wrestling between the kingdom of Light and the kingdom of darkness. So they went into spiritual warfare prayers for peter and suddenly, the angel of the Lord appeared to peter ( Acts 12:7 ),and Peter was delivered. It breeds positive excitement and energy. ACW Spiritual Warfare - Duration: 3:22. Krumping is definitely a spirtual warfare dance.
In every major army, soldiers receive regulation equipment. With Enforcer, Jason Green, Ceasare Willis. It is a dance form that was pioneered by Tight Eyez aka Ceasare Willis and Lil C along with a group of others namely Big Mijo, Slayer, and Hurricane. The scripture is the answer. Krump is an acronym for Kingdom Radically Uplifted Mighty Praise. Because of you under satanic/witchcraft attack, you need prayers to push and defeat the enemy. Priscilla believes we tend to see our problems and struggles in non-spiritual terms. Overcoming in spiritual warfare begins with intimacy with God.
This video is unavailable. See the other side of the story behind the characters they portray through their dancing.
-> BANG,THE EARTH IS RO


Saint Anthony School of Milwaukee exists for Jesus Christ and His Church to provide a better and more peaceful world through intercultural understanding and respect. Through a highly structured, rigorous academic and Faith based program, we prepare our scholars to become inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people ready to take their place as strong, successful Catholic leaders in college and beyond. As a collaborative team, our administrators, teachers, support staff, parents and community members identify needs, propose and implement solutions that create a school culture centered on compassion, service and lifelong learning. Through our holistic approach, students become conscientious, responsible citizens, well prepared to better carry out the mission of the church and their local and global communities with sincerity and passion.
St. Anthony School provides quality Catholic Education to grades K2-12. The school consists of 5 separate campuses: Preschool & Daycare, 2 elementary schools, middle school and high school.
St. Anthony School is accredited by Wisconsin Religious and Independent Schools Accreditation. We also share membership in the National Catholic Education Association, the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, Educational Resources Incorporated and the Core Knowledge Foundation.


What We Offer
For babies and toddlers we provide creche facilities every Sunday.
Sunday School meets each Sunday from 10:45am - 12:00noon. They take an active part in the first part of our worship together leading prayers.
Youth Group (secondary age) meets on a Sunday night, usually the second Sunday of the month, from 7-9pm.
Our Holiday Club runs each August during the school holidays. Watch out for more information soon!
All our volunteers are PVG checked and follow the Church of Scotland's Safeguarding Good Practice policies and proceedures.


Lori T. Vander Velden, age 49, Green Bay, passed away Monday, June 11, 2018. She was born January 1, 1969 in Green Bay to Gerald Vander Velden and the late Jean (Hooper) Vander Velden.
Lori had a beautiful mind and was a very creative person with her own drawings, music and love of reading.
She is survived by her father, Gerald; two brothers, David (Mary) and Gary (Jason); nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She is also survived by her dog, Bear.
Lori was preceded in death by her mother, Jean.
Visitation for Lori will be held Thursday, June 14, 2018, from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Lyndahl Funeral Home, 1350 Lombardi Avenue. A parish wake service will take place at 7:00 pm. Visitation will continue Friday from 10:00 am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church, 2270 South Oneida Street, with the Rev. Mike Ingold officiating. Burial will be in Fort Howard Memorial Park. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Lori may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.lyndahl.com.


"Thank you for making these teachings available. Glory to Jesus Christ."
"This is perfect timing for our parish and particularly for me as legally blind. I appreciate all the series I’ve been able to listen to. PNP is a wonderful ministry. Thank you."
"God reward your efforts in creating these edifying lectures!"
"I was recently particularly moved by your reflection, The Great Awakening Orthodox Style. I have been involved in higher education for almost 30 years and want to use my remaining time to maximum effect for the Kingdom."
"Although we've never met, I wanted to thank you for the content you've put on YouTube, as it was instrumental in bringing me to the church..."
"I am from the UK and ...have recently been introduced to your videos and content... am currently seeking out an Orthodox Church in my area to visit with a view to learning more about Orthodox Christianity."
"I love your content so much. It has truly strengthened my love of the beauty of Orthodoxy and helps strengthen my understanding, appreciation, and foundational knowledge - daily. "
"The Catechumens at our church listening to his lectures, then discussing them in a classroom setting. Father Josiah's words have truly impacted my life in a deep way.... "
"Father Josiah Trenham's recent video talking about Saint Photini the Samaritan woman really encouraged my hunger to evangelize."
"We just want to express our gratitude for your work with the Philokalia. It is very helpful and beneficial for us..."
"The new lecture "Reflections on Transgenderism" is excellent and addresses a much-needed subject of our times.... I watch and subscribe to your channel on Youtube as well. God bless you, Father!!"
"You speak the truth in love and call us to be better. You stand up for what is right, what is Orthodox, what our church fathers would have done, and what is expected of us."
"Your video "The Fishers of Men." awoke something deep inside of me and I saw how beautiful the world could be through the window of that short video. The beautiful and loving families and beautiful Church were something I desperately needed as my own marriage was falling apart due to lack of Christ's presence. It was shortly after watching that video and attending your Liturgy(which sealed the deal for me in terms of your legitimacy) that I made the choice in my mind and said to Christ, "Please change me, do whatever you need to do." (I am brought to tears writing this right now. Glory to God for this softened heart.)"
"Your video reflections are a gift. Your words matter and inspire. It was a welcome lifeline during the year when we couldn't live our lives per usual."
"...I thoroughly enjoy and benefit from listening to your homilies which I can understand. They truly resonate with me. I simply wanted to express my gratitude for your weekly words as we all continue to keep up the good struggle toward salvation and navigate the challenges we face as Christians in today's very secular and "woke" society."
"... Additionally, I am listening to your homilies from The Arena (beginning with sermons and entries from over 10 years ago) and I purchased your sermons from St. Philaret (are there more volumes coming?). There is just so much quality material you provide to the Orthodox Community and it is such a blessing."


Welcome, and thank you for visiting the website of Saint Anthony Church Kalihi.
St. Anthony Church Kalihi is an active and vibrant Catholic community, in praise and service to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Please feel free to learn about our community and our ministries. May the Lord inspire you to join us in worship and/or in service.
Peace be with you!
Rev. Fr. Arnel Soriano, M.S.
First Friday of the Month 630PM-900PM
Saturday Vigil 600PM
Sunday (Only every 1st Sunday of the Month) Language: Ilocano 430PM
Sunday (Only every 3rd Sunday of the Month) Language: Visayan 500PM
Reconciliation / Confession Schedule


We often say “words matter,” and they do. Words can make you or break you, lift you up or put you down. But there’s one place you can go where all His Word, even His rebuke, will still build you up. I read somewhere where the writer said, even as the Lord rebuked or corrected His disciples, they were never offended, but they embraced every word He said. Why? Because the Words came from a heart of love and compassion. They were never meant to offend but to build up. The rebuke exposed the hidden agenda of Satan. As in the discourse of Jesus with Peter. In both instances Satan’s plans were exposed. Matthew 16:22-23; Luke 9:54-56 kjv
Today I’d like to explore some verses from the longest Psalm and chapter in the Bible. Every stanza is loaded with instructions, yearning and longings of the writer. If you’ve never read it through in its entirety, I encourage you to do so. We often quote very familiar verses without realizing that they’re all from this Psalm. I’ll only comment if the Teacher wants me to, because most is self explanatory. Get your coffee or tea and set time aside to bask in the beauty that is HIS WORD.
“You’re only truly happy when you walk in total integrity, walking in the light of God’s word. What joy overwhelms everyone who keeps the ways of God, those who seek Him as their heart’s passion! They’ll never do what’s wrong but will always choose the paths of the Lord. God has prescribed the right way to live: obeying His laws with all our hearts. How I long for my life to bring You glory as I follow each and every one of Your holy precepts! Then I’ll never be ashamed, for I take strength from all Your commandments. I will give my thanks to You from a heart of love and truth. And every time I learn more of Your righteous judgments, I will be faithful to all that Your word reveals— so don’t ever give up on me!” Psalms 119:1-8 TPT
“How can a young man stay pure? Only by living in the word of God and walking in its truth. I have longed for you with the passion of my heart; don’t let me stray from your directions! I consider your prophecies to be my greatest treasure, and I memorize them and write them on my heart to keep me from committing sin’s treason against you. My wonderful God, you are to be praised above all; teach me the power of your decrees!
I find more joy in following what you tell me to do than in chasing after all the wealth of the world.” Psalms 119:9-12, 14
WE FIND LIFE
“Open my eyes to see the miracle-wonders hidden in your word. My life on earth is so brief, so tutor me in the ways of your wisdom. I am continually consumed by these irresistible longings, these cravings to obey your every commandment!
Your commandments are my counselors; your word is my light and delight!” Psalms 119:18-20, 24
WE ARE REVIVED
“I’ve poured out my life before you, and you’ve always been there for me. So now I ask: teach me more of your holy decrees. Open up my understanding to the ways of your wisdom and I will meditate deeply on your splendor and your wonders.
Lord, don’t allow me to make a mess of my life, for I cling to your commands and follow them as closely as I can. I will run after you with delight in my heart, for you will make me obedient to your instructions.” Psalms 119:26-27, 31-32
WE GAIN UNDERSTANDING
“Give me revelation about the meaning of your ways so I can enjoy the reward of following them fully. Give me an understanding heart so that I can passionately know and obey your truth. Guide me into the paths that please you, for I take delight in all that you say.” Psalms 119:33-35
WE CAN TRUST
“May your tender love overwhelm me, O Lord, for you are my Savior and you keep your promises.
May I never forget your truth, for I rely upon your precepts. I will observe your laws every moment of the day and will never forget the words you say. I will walk with you in complete freedom, for I seek to follow your every command.” Psalms 119:41, 43-45
WE CAN BE CONFIDENT
“Lord, never forget the promises you’ve made to me, for they are my hope and confidence. In all of my affliction I find great comfort in your promises, for they have kept me alive!
Your revelation-light is eternal; I’m encouraged every time I think about your truth!
Throughout the night I think of you, dear God; I treasure your every word to me. All this joy is mine as I follow your ways!” Psalms 119:49-50, 52, 55-56
How are we doing? Is your heart burning by the WORD you’re experiencing? Let’s continue. Oh the glory of His presence in His written Word.
“You are my satisfaction, Lord, and all that I need, so I’m determined to do everything you say. With all my heart I seek your favor; pour out your grace on me as you promised! When I realize that I’m going astray, I turn back to obey your instructions. I give my all to follow your revelation-light; I will not delay to obey.
In the middle of the night I awake to give thanks to you because of all your revelation-light; so right and true!
Give me more revelation of your ways, for I see your love and tender care everywhere.” Psalms 119:57-60, 62, 64
“Your extravagant kindness to me makes me want to follow your words even more! Teach me how to make good decisions, and give me revelation-light, for I believe in your commands.
Everything you do is beautiful, flowing from your goodness; teach me the power of your wonderful words!
The punishment you brought me through was the best thing that could have happened to me, for it taught me your ways. The words you speak to me are worth more than all the riches and wealth in the whole world!” Psalms 119:65-66, 68, 71-72
SELAH…To be continued
“When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, Lord God Almighty.” Jeremiah 15:16 NIV
Father in the Name of Jesus I thank you for Your written Word. How blessed we are to be in a nation where we can still read Your Word without fear of imprisonments or death. May we not take for granted the season of grace that we have to do so. May we treasure it as a Pearl of great price. Many lives have been sacrificed to bring Your Word to print, and countless more are sacrificed just for having it in their possession. We are truly blessed. Thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides us into the truth of Your Word. In Jesus Name. Amen
Written by permission of the Holy Spirit


MissionKing's College, a Catholic college in the Holy Cross tradition, provides students with a broad-based liberal arts education which offers the intellectual, moral, and spiritual preparation that enables them to lead meaningful and satisfying lives.
History & TraditionKing's College was founded in 1946 by the Congregation of Holy Cross to provide a liberal arts education to the sons of working class families. Building upon its historical roots, King's College seeks to attract and educate talented men and women from all backgrounds.
Holy Cross sponsorship and the Catholic intellectual tradition are important components of a King's education. Fr. Basil Moreau, C. S. C., founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross, expressed his vision of educating the whole person, both mind and heart, as the essential philosophy of all Holy Cross schools. In the words of its founding President, Fr. James Connerton, C.S.C., "King's teaches students not only how to make a living, but how to live."
To achieve its Mission :
- King's College welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and strives to educate them in a community committed to academic excellence, mutual respect, and social responsibility.
- Faculty members are committed to active student learning and excellent teaching as their main responsibilities.
- Faculty members engage in ongoing professional development and public scholarship to strengthen their primary role of teaching.
- Faculty , administration, and staff members share responsibility for working with students as advisors, coaches, counselors, and mentors to nurture the full development of students.
- The academic curriculum is complemented by co-curricular programs, organizations, and activities which contribute to the career, civic, cultural, personal, physical, moral and spiritual development of students.
- King's College encourages students, faculty, administration, and staff members to participate in their academic, professional, civic, cultural, and faith communities.


Tonight God ministered to my heart with such sweetness that I can’t let it pass without sharing it with you. And giving Him glory!
One of the things that means the most to me is the little things that tell me I’m thought of when I’m not around. A text, an email, a phone call out of the blue…even more so a card in the mail from someone I love. That card in the mail says not only were you thought of, but I made an effort for you. That is one of the reasons I love gifts.
A few years ago my mom bought me a scarf for Christmas. It wasn’t on my list, but I had mentioned I’d like one. When she saw it, she realized it had colors in it I wear often. It is one of the best gifts I’ve gotten lately. It told me that she knew me and thought of me.
Tonight, as I was enjoying the Hillsong United concert at Red Rocks, I was thinking about how our youth pastor and his wife had so generously given the tickets to us. I processed how it was so amazing, but, unlike my birthday when they had put together some fun surprises in the car I was driving up to Winter retreat, that it wasn’t like they had bought the tickets for us originally.
And here is where God spoke so clearly. Not in these words, mind you, for He is always so much more eloquent and tender than I am.
“When they bought these tickets, I knew you would use them. I chose them for you. I am the one who prepared this night for you. (Don’t let it diminish in your mind because I also prepared it for all the people here at Red Rocks.) I went ahead of you in time, which does not bind me, and set this night up for you.
I started it with a worship song you knew and then merged it into Relentless because that is how much I love you… I knew how much Everlasting would mean to you because as you surrendered your heart, you knew you would still fail, but I wanted you to remember my Grace. I knew how many times you have listened to your vacation playlist, and how well you would know the Scandal of Grace, and how it would make you smile. I inspired the Colossians 1 passage along the way, so you could speak aloud my word with joy! I planned some songs that you wouldn’t connect with, so you could sit and rest and talk to me. It is at that point of sweetness that Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) reached in and brought a swell of love and emotion between us.
There were other moments with other songs that you may or may not hear again, but all along, I knew you needed this night. How thirsty you’ve been to really worship me, but life and circumstances have held you back. I want you, Beloved.”
And so I am full! Even as I wake up from not enough sleep into a busy day, I am overflowing from the night God planned for me. And every day He plans things for me. Some days it’s the blue sky and others it is a kind word from a friend. But I don’t want to miss what he has prepared for me today or any day. Thank you Jesus!


The first time I saw my daughter I thought she was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. She also seemed to be the most fragile thing I had ever seen. From that moment I vowed I would love and protect her always.
Children are fragile to some extent, but they are also more resilient, strong, brave, and miraculous than we could ever imagine.
I consider the birth of every child to be a miracle and a blessing, but whenever I hear of amazing stories such as the one below, I am reminded just how precious every life is.
I do not have the words adequate enough to express my heartfelt admiration for this amazing family who did everything they could despite the odds, to save the life of their precious baby boy. You are a perfect example of what love and faith can accomplish! May your family be blessed with love and happiness.
Story credit to LifeSite News
OLNEY, Maryland, February 6, 2012 (LifeSiteNews.com) – Kristin Page woke up suddenly in the middle of a warm May night, feeling soaking wet. A few months ago, the mother of three had been afraid to take a pregnancy test when she missed her period. Kristin already felt stretched to the limit with her energetic children, aged 2 through 7, but her husband Matt had encouraged her that together they would “figure it out.”
Kristin vigorously shook Matt awake. Now 13 weeks pregnant, she had come to accept with joy the new life within her, wondering what this little bundle would bring into their blossoming family.
“My waters must have broken,” she whispered in a panic.
On the phone, Kristin’s doctor advised her to visit the hospital first thing in the morning for an examination. He told her that such a young baby could not survive without any amniotic fluid.
An ultrasound revealed that there was no amniotic fluid, but surprisingly, the baby’s heart was still beating. The doctor told Kristin that her baby would die and instructed her to go home to rest, pray and wait for the baby to pass.
A few days later, Kristen returned for another ultrasound. To everyone’s surprise, the baby was still alive, and with a “super strong” heart beat.
A different doctor from the first told the parents exactly how dire the situation was. “No water, no lungs, no life,” she said, and encouraged Kristen and Matt to get an abortion and avoid running the increasing risk of serious infection.
A few days later, an expert in high-risk pregnancies told the parents flatly that the pregnancy would come to an end on its own. The expert counseled the parents to abort, suggesting that if waiting to miscarry seemed too unbearable for Kristen, then she could immediately opt for the dilation and curettage (D & C) procedure.
Now at 16 weeks, Kristen went to see a different specialist. Another ultrasound revealed a powerful heartbeat. The baby was thriving.
The specialist told Kristin that she was not being fair to her husband and other children if she were to leave them without a wife and mother all for the sake of a child that would not even survive more than a day. “Your only option is to terminate,” he said.
Kristen and Matt left in tears, devastated by the bleakness of their situation.
Google searches only made them more dismal. Everywhere they looked, they found that babies with no amniotic fluid had a zero percent chance of survival.
With nothing left to lose, Kristen and Matt decided to let God be in control. They told God that he could take their precious baby whenever he so wished.
“We felt that we were given no hope. Yet, against all odds, we found the strength to just say ‘so be it’ and allow what was certainly going to happen (at least in our eyes) happen,” they said.
“If He wanted him, then I would be at peace knowing it was God’s choice and not mine,” said Kristen.
CLICK HERE TO READ THE REST OF THIS INCREDIBLE STORY


On Thursday, December 8th at 7:00 p.m.
Parkview Christian Church
201 W. Ustick Rd. Meridian, Idaho 83642
(Near Ustick & Meridian Road across from Settlers Park)
Students to arrive for final walk-through rehearsal at 6:15 p.m.
Pre-Concert Reception for Families while the kids prepare.
Season’s Greetings to all! We are tremendously excited to have the opportunity to share our student talents and the joy of the season by putting on a Holiday Concert for our families and friends.
Our performers will include:
- Our Kindergarten through 5th Grade classes
- Our Middle School Choir students
- Our Middle School Orchestra/Band students
Children participating are encouraged to dress up for the performance. Holiday attire and colors are welcome. However, a special shopping trip is not necessary, school uniform is always appropriate.
Our performance is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. but we ask that students arrive at the church at 6:15 p.m. for a final walk-through rehearsal. While the children go through their final preparations, families are invited to enjoy time together at a pre-concert reception.
Thank You and Happy Thanksgiving!
RHPCS Music Teacher


Join our community, "Relationships of the Heart for Leaders."
Our focus is to assist Christian leaders to navigate, through their relationships in three areas of life.
1- Their relationship with Jesus Christ.
2- Caring for one another in the community of believers.
3- Reaching Others, The Heartbeat of Jesus.
This is carried out through online and offline teaching, conferences workshops, books and courses.
Currently We train and equip Christians to disciple others through relationships in our fast paced hurting world.
This is carried out;
- Through the leading the Relationships of the Heart Conference/Workshop
- Through online videos, social media, video, audio, books, youtube and website.
Simply fill out this form and you will receive a welcome email with details explaining our community, along with a free download on forgiveness.
I hope you will join us! If you find this is not for you, simply unsubscribe.
If you have questions email me at- Nancy@Relationshipswithnancy.com
I am looking forward to being in community with you.
Founder and Leader of Relationships of the Heart for Leaders
* indicates required


"I am so delighted that you have come to visit our web-site! It is my
deepest hope that you will come to visit, in person, our Faith
community. I/we would love to meet you. If you are new to the community,
I extend to you a personal invitation to come worship with us."
Pastor Kaul read more...
We are a Family of Faith, empowered by God, reaching out to all people
through Word and Sacrament ministry.
50th Anniversary Pictures and Videos
Current and UpcomingEvents
Palm Sunday Worship
9:00 a.m. April 13th
Maundy Thursday Worship
6:30 p.m. April
Good Friday Worship
p.m. April 18th
Easter Sunday Worship
8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. April 20th
Easter Breakfast between services


|WMU Online Bookstore|
Materials related to prayer, spiritual development, social issues, cultural diversity/cooperation, administration, ministry, Bible study, missionary biographies and stories.
|My Wonder Kids|
Bible songs and stories, DVD movies, illustrated books for kids of all ages, and religious music CDs specifically for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and older children with lyrics available for each song.
Dedicated to spreading the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ through easy to read and understand books: Bible prophecy, novels, inner healing, testimonies of God's grace, devotionals, praise, worship and meditation.
Prayer books, hymnals, works on liturgy, music, homiletics, church history, liturgical theology, Anglican spirituality, contemporary global Anglicanism as well as recorded music (Church hymns, Christmas & Easter music).
Thousands of books of interest to Muslims, with such titles as: The Qur'an & The Arabic Language, Belief and the Afterlife and Islam in America. With a range of BlackSeed products, Da'Wah materials, gifts, Halal cosmetics, perfumes and more.
Torah literature for the whole family: Bible/commentaries, parenting/teaching, Talmud, Haggados, Jewish thought, cooking, Hebrew sefarim, Sabbath/holidays, prayer.
Donations, Bible and New Testament in English and other international languages, Bible portions, booklets, leaflets and tracts, CDs and DVDs, electronic and premium Bibles imprinted with custom logos or artwork for the global Christian community.
|CSS Publishing Company|
Helps clergy and congregations to promote an active Christian lifestyle. Lectionary and non-lectionary sermons, preaching helps, prayer compilations, Bibles and worship aids, including works for weddings, funerals, and Baptism.
Judaica store featuring a large selection of books, gifts, Jewish music, seforim and garments.
Sunday School curriculum, a commentary series based on the New International Version, Bible study books, apologetics, theology, doctrine, evangelism for independent Christian Churches and Churches of Christ.


It’s a subject that isn’t easy to discuss, yet it’s been happening all over America, and time has now come to hold these sexual predators and criminals accountable. When our trusted clergymen, church volunteers, nuns, priests and fathers take advantage of our youths it creates scars that can last a lifetime.
It may be hard to talk about if you’ve been sexually abused and we understand the trauma that’s occurred, but we need you to take a stand with the thousands of other sex crime victims in calling these people accountable.
There are many organizations that can help you with counseling, or simply connecting with others in order to help you heal.
Take Action – Report Any Sexual Abuse in your Church or Place of Worship
If you suspect any form of sexual abuse in a church or your local dioceses, you may report them by calling us at 1-800-811-1577, all calls are handled with the utmost privacy.
If you are a clergy or church sexual abuse victim and need a support group we recommend the great work by The SNAP Network. Please visit their website at: http://www.snapnetwork.org
Who is SNAP? Here is their mission statement from their website:
Today SNAP is the largest, oldest and most active self-help group for clergy sex abuse victims, whether assaulted by ministers, priests, nuns or rabbis. SNAP is a confidential, safe place for wounded men and women to be heard, supported and healed. SNAP works tirelessly to achieve two goals: to heal the wounded and to protect the vulnerable. The organization has more than 25,000 members and support groups meet in over 60 cities across the U.S. and the world.
Were you abused by a trusted church member, or know a victim? Contact us by calling 1-800-811-1577 or use the 100% secure contact form on this page. Take Action Now and help prevent more clerical abuse in churches and houses of worship.
Clergy Abuse & Sex Crimes Page updated on September 17, 2021.


National Youth Orchestra of the Dominican Republic
12 August 2014
Palacio de Bellas Artes, Santo Domingo
Orquesta Sinfónica Juvenil de la República Dominicana
Darwin Aquino, conductor
‘Alabanza’ means to raise this thing to God’s face and sing “praise to this”. Alabanzas is a memoriam piece that symbolises a congregation singing praise. The thematic material is heard throughout the work with little variation in order to depict the reiterated praises. As the music progresses, the emotions rise up, portrayed by the rhythmic character of the later sections, until the music reaches a moment of ecstasy six bars from the end. There is a sense of resolution where the great emotional state gives way to a peaceful state of mind.


...by Fr James Tolhurst, who has just brought out a new edition of John Henry Newman's Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine.
Fr J. is a great Newman scholar, and his lecture illuminated Newman's message. Newman's journey into full communion with the Catholic Church was of course bound up with his understanding of the development of doctrine - and through his work the Church has been enriched.
The lecture - extremely well attended, every seat filled and people standing at the back - was in the Challoner Room at the Church of Our Lady and St Gregory, Warwick Street. The Church is in the care of the Ordinariate of Our Lady of Walsingham and the evening was chaired by Mgr Keith Newton, the Ordinary, who noted that this was in fact the first Catholic Church that Newman ever attended - he went there when young with his father, to hear the music at the sung Mass. Newman is now a Patron of the Ordinariate.
This was a very enjoyable evening, with a celebratory feel - and a particular joy for our family as Fr J. is a good family friend of many years' standing.


Notre Dame Cathedral, an historical landmark and symbol of the catholic church in Paris. Construction of this monument began in 1160 and has been restored, renovated and updated over and over again in the past 800+ years. One of the most iconic and identifiable buildings in France, if not all of Europe is visited by countless millions every year.
Much like other monuments of the catholic church, the Notre Dame was built to support the sick, the poor and suffering masses “in the name of god”. The Vatican, basically the head office for the catholic church is located in Rome, Italy.
I have personally been there- the Vatican. Not as part of my own quest for faith or anything, but as a fan of history. As someone from a country that is younger than many buildings in Europe, being able to stand inside some of these landmarks is a spiritual experience unto itself.
I am not a religious person. I didn’t grow up going to church or Sunday school. I wasn’t quoted text from the bible as bedtime stories and I never have had a fear of god. I never understood a need for it as a child and it wasn’t until my late teens before I started analyzing it. Growing up in a very quiet, very white public school system I wasn’t exposed to a lot of religion.
There were the catholic schools where the religious kids went, but we still said the lords’ prayer every morning after we sang O Canada. Christmas concerts were still very Jesus-centric, always about the baby in the manager and the three wise men, etc. There were those classmates that were absent on the days we had fun stuff like valentines day and Halloween which I eventually learned were from a religion that didn’t celebrate holidays like we did.
Religion was always there in the peripheral but never an active part of my life- but it intrigued me.
As I got older I would start to learn more about religions- not any one in particular, I was always fascinated that there were so many religions around the world, with so many different beliefs and values that nations would go to war over. It made zero sense to me that so many groups of people would have such an unwavering belief in the love of their religion that they would fight with people for having the very same beliefs and values- just with a different name.
In my late teens, my best friend at the time- who HAD grown up with church and religion asked me a question that I never in my life imagined I would be asked, let alone struggle to answer it; “How do you know right from wrong?”
I remember staring blankly at him. What a ridiculous question! What do you mean how do I know right from wrong?! I know what things are wrong, and so I don’t do them. (And if I do, don’t get caught…) Be nice to others, treat them how I would want to be treated. Don’t kick dogs or tie a hundred helium balloons to a kitten to watch it fly away.
“Yes but HOW do you know?” My friend repeated, “Without learning about God how do you know what things are right and what things are wrong?” I believe my answer to him was “common sense”. I knew not to kill someone because somewhere along the way, I learned about values and ethics. My parents taught me right and wrong and consequences. Rewards for good behavior, punishment for bad behavior
I wasn’t beaten or molested. I wasn’t abused physically or mentally, I was taught what a good deed was, how to be a gentleman and how to treat a lady. If someone needs help, help them. If something needs doing, then do it. There was no “all powerful being” watching over my shoulder making sure that I did what I was told, if I wanted to make my parents happy, I did it. All kids grow up wanting to please their parents. It’s who we are.
How our parents react to our behavior growing up shapes who we become as adults.
We want to make our friends happy, our employers, our significant others. If we do something to hurt them, it hurts us. If it feels bad- don’t do it, right? So when I was asked how I knew right from wrong, it felt as if he was asking how I knew when to breathe. As if I needed to be told when it was time to wipe my ass after using the toilet without someone there telling me it was time.
I guess I was raised to be independent. To use my head and my heart and not have to rely on others to tell me what to do. I have never needed a deity to tell me not to hurt others because I don’t like how it feels to do wrong to someone, so I don’t. I have never needed forgiveness from a higher power because I am the one who needs to sleep at night and look myself in the mirror. If I have wronged someone, I ask their forgiveness. They are the one I hurt.
So as I walked the halls of the Vatican, admiring the ancient art on the walls and ceilings, the structure that has existed longer than my country has been a country, I didn’t feel a deep resonance in my soul for God or Jesus, I stood in awe of the people that built it and lived there. People that lived their lives hundreds of years ago never considering one day that the long hallways that had been lit by torch for centuries would one day be lined with electricity and light bulbs.
That their bedrooms, which had been in use for generations would one day become a tourist attraction for commoners to walk through and take pictures of, while eating popcorn and allowing small children to run squealing from room to room.
That this fortress of “all things holy” would one day be used as a backdrop in movies.
Same goes for all churches, mosques, synagogues or temples that have existed much longer than most of us appreciate. But does that mean they no longer hold the same values, ethics and beliefs as the day they were built? Does being a tourist attraction mean you no longer have to know the difference between right and wrong? That you no longer need to serve the people?
Religious or not, I always tried to believe that there was always a place for religion and church in society. Watching movies that saw those in need could always go to the church for sanctuary or help made me feel good about those that needed it could always find it. And I always felt that those that went to church and were not in need, donated money to the offering plates- so that the church would have the resources to help those in need.
I had my family and friends that I could always count on, but some are not that lucky.
There is a lot of negative media right now as the Notre Dame church has received over a billion Euros in donations and support. Several wealthy business people have donated more money than I will ever see in my lifetime because the iconic church in France has suffered a disaster, and people are crying out things like “we could use that money”, “think of the world problems that could be solved with that money”.
People are genuinely angry that individuals would donate to a church rather than to “starving children in Africa”.
To those people upset by this I say: “Give your head a shake!”
There is so much wrong with anger directed towards the church for getting donations that I don’t know where to start. And to those with the argument that “the church has insurance to cover this fire”, I ask you to be patient and stay with me here… I’ll get there.
The church didn’t ask for the fire to happen. At least I don’t believe it did. Say what you will about conspiracies within the catholic church, I do not believe they intended the fire to happen. So if people- and I’ll go out on a limb and say people that have in one way or another been affected by/helped by/inspired by the church want to donate- why not? People donate to the church all the time, right? Isn’t that what the offering plate is for? This just happens to be a little more than the standard five dollar donation.
Could these donations have been given to other institutions? Sure. Anybody can donate to any cause of their choosing at any time. What inspires people to donate to their cause of choice? Well that depends on the person. How they grew up, what life experiences they have had, what has influenced them along the way.
“But all those starving kids in Africa…” don’t have a bank account that we can simply deposit a billion dollars in to. There are a lot of humanitarian aid groups out there, but how many of us are 100% confident that money we donate actually goes to the cause it was directed? Insert whatever disaster or societal outrage you want to help with, there will always be someone ready to line their pockets and send “some” of that money on to help with the cause.
I am not for an instant saying the church is above this. For every story of the church acting as a sanctuary, there is another story of people lining their pockets off the donations of others “in the name of god”. But the church is in a unique position right now. Never in history has the catholic faith been under so much controversy and scrutiny, be it regarding child molestation, condemnation of those who see marriage and love a little bit different, or the age-old argument of whose God is better.
If people out there that want to donate to the church- let them.
These people were likely one day in need of something and the church helped them. This is called paying it forward. That insurance money- you are absolutely right, fire insurance IS there to help rebuild and restore, and there will be more than enough. So what about the billion Euros (and counting) that have been donated, are those to line the pockets of the church?
Well that’s up to the church, isn’t it? If church is truly about helping those in need, then who better to donate to than the largest organized religion on the planet? I certainly don’t know how to get money to starving children all over the world, but I guarantee you the church has those kinds of connections. And with so much negative attention focused towards the catholic religion right now, don’t you think they would like the opportunity to show how positively relevant they still are?
In this day and age of people’s faith in humanity being so darkly lit, now may be the time for the church to stand up and use this opportunity to be what it was always supposed to be; a bastion of hope and help in a sea of despair and hate. The church didn’t ask for the fire to happen, and we all know they don’t need the money to help rebuild. The people donating to the church know this too. Now It’s time to see if the catholic church truly knows the difference between right and wrong with what they do with this money.


Working closely with communities in rural central Tanzania to establish and sustain:
Water Resources, Agriculture & Forestry Development, Education, Health and Nutritian
Fr. John Naumann
Director of the Amani Devopment Organization
Fr. John Naumann graduated from St. Francis Theological Seminary in 1966, then served in a series of churches in Australia, arriving at St. Stephen's in Billings, Montana in 1989. In addition to St. Stephen's Billings, he served for eight years as the priest in charge in Glendive, Miles City and Forsyth, until another priest took on that duty.
In 1992, St. Stephen's invited the Rev. Ainea Kusenhia and his wife, Mary, to come visit from central Tanzania. Both were schoolteachers doing postgraduate work at Trinity Episcopal School of Ministry at Ambridge, Pa. They accepted the invitation to come to Billings and that began this wonderful connection. St. Stephen's began helping sponsor students who couldn't afford an education.
In 2000, Naumann spent much of his four-month sabbatical in Tanzania. It was then he realized the people desperately needed water. So he came home and started raising money to build deep-water wells to supply the precious resource. The cost of to survey, drill and properly equip each well is $25,000.
For Naumann, it is a labor of love. The benefits of uncontaminated water are far-reaching, he said. Life is totally transformed and the cycle of cholera is broken because the people have access to clean water. The incidence of typhoid is greatly reduced and mothers no longer have to spend long hours walking to a distant source of water.. Eye infections in children practically disappear because sufficient water exists for proper hygiene.
Drip irrigation has been introduced : (a) to assist families and communities to raise vegetables to improve their nutrition and , (b) to improve the development of grape production as a cash crop for local families. It costs $23.00 to develop a single vegetable garden which will provide for a household, with perhaps some excess vegetables for sale. The same amount will equip one forty meter line of grape plants.


Marbella Fair is one of the most anticipated moments of the year throughout Marbella. It is the Most Important Week of the town where tribute is paid to the towns Patron Saint – St. Barnabus.
Marbella dresses up for its Fair and Fiestas, it fills with color and excitement so that the townspeople and visitors can enjoy the celebrations and respect the St. Barnabus Fair.
The St. Barnabus holiday pays homage each year to the Patron Saint of Marbella on 11th June. Life in general fills with amusements, the coexistence between neighbours and the great environment takes over the town during these days
St. Barbabus day is on the same day as the Carmen, one of the most important moments of the year for Marbella and all those who live there.
This day commemorates the reconquest of Marbella by the Catholic Monarchy in the year 1485.
During this Fair week the inhabitants of Marbella, along with the tourists and visitors have the opportunity to enjoy the color and tradition of the true andalusian “fiestas”.
In the course of these days in Marbella there will be various activities and performances taking place.
A couple of weeks before the start of the Fair, the traditional competition takes place to chose the Queen and Ladies in Waiting for the St. Barnabus Fair.
The traditional Romeria (or pilgrimage) of St. Barnabus opens the Fair Week . It starts out from the Casa de la Hermandad de Romeros and ends up at the Shrine of the Patron Saint in Pinar de Nagueles followed by a typical breakfast of churros and hot chocolate. There is also a special place for children in this celebration and throughout the week there are many attractions and special activities for the younger ones.
The St. Barnabus Fair for 2015 will have 29 stalls, of which 25 will be up for tender.


Aimee and Jason are getting married this November!! It has been SUCH a blessing to have this girl by my side as we both plan for our upcoming weddings. I have known Aimee since the first grade. Can you believe it?! In high school and all throughout college we would take walks around our neighborhood praying and wondering who our future husbands would be. Now we take walks and talk about our fiances and marriage and wonder what life would look like in just a few months. I love looking back and thanking God for his faithfulness and perfect leadership in our lives. He is so good! : )
Aimee first mentioned Jason’s name when we were just chatting over frozen yogurt one day. He had been emailing Aimee and we were trying to figure out his intentions. Throughout the next few months I was so excited to get updates about their growing relationship and learn more about Jason’s serving heart. And I love that he had a heart for missions, something that is so dear to Aimee! They are so perfect for each other and their love sure does shine through these photographs! : ) Thank you for such a wonderful time you two! It was so fun to double-date on this shoot and enjoy such a delicious meal together. LOVE YOU!!


Impulse to the sacred.
Ronnie Koehn, PhD
As we head into April and Child Abuse Prevention Month, it is fitting to reflect on the mission of Casa de Esperanza: Casa de Esperanza de los Niños strives to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect for at-risk infants, children and their families by providing comprehensive residential and family support programs that transform people and communities. Our vision is that every child deserves a home that provides safety, health, permanence and hope.
What would you do if you saw a child about to run into a busy street? What would you do if you saw a toddler reaching for a pan of boiling water, or noticed that a child’s leg was bleeding badly as they are struggling to get up from a very hard fall?
The answer to all these questions is the same: you would immediately secure the child’s safety. The only reason a child comes to Casa de Esperanza is because they are not safe, which testifies that the foundation of Casa de Esperanza’s existence is based on our ability to keep children and families safe. The language we use to show this core value is to describe ourselves as a “crisis shelter,” but our homes and offices have, over the years, also become sanctuaries for children and families finding themselves in harm’s way, hungry, sick, or have no safe place to belong.
The reality that all forms are life are forfeit without certain margins of safety suggests that our shared awareness of the need for safety is inherent and a deep part of our being. Subsequently our urge to provide safety can be so dominant that our actions toward that goal can often feel reflexive, that is, without the need for thinking, on impulse.
I would argue that it is society’s responsibility to keep our children safe. Do human beings have an impulse toward the sacred? Sacred can mean that which is deserving of veneration or respect and implies great dignity and wisdom and in many cultures is associated with all that is holy. An impulse can be a sudden, strong urge or desire to act, often without need of reflection.
Sacred texts from divergent cultural groups share our belief that our goal of providing safety is venerable: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me.. .” (Bible); “…to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked to cover him…” (Prophet Isaiah); “My children, whenever you give sustenance to the poor, I impute it to you as though you gave sustenance to Me.” (Talmud).
Uniting these ancient, multi-cultural texts held by many as sacred, is our universally shared human drive to provide safety. Expanding ourselves to provide sanctuary is to change who we are into something bigger than our individual selves. As a group, the people who have graced our doors over these decades come together and form the relationships necessary to create the courage and hope that is fatally missing from those we serve.
Casa de Esperanza is a 501(C)3, non-denominational, non-political charity. We do not ascribe to any particular teachings or faith. And yet, we cannot help but feel that the work we do, our coming together to provide safety and nurturance is sacred in every sense of that word. The acts of feeding the hungry, sheltering those with no safe place to belong, providing medical care to the sick, maybe especially in times of great fear and despair, unite us.


Christmas Cards 2021
Does it feel too early to be talking about Christmas? It's not that far off and we've got four fabulous new Christmas cards to share with you, all available in packs of six cards for £8.
Daisy has created a gorgeous Black Madonna and Child card. At the heart of the Christmas story is a mother and her child, an image that resonates the world over. Which is why we need different representations of the Madonna and child, to portray some of the beautiful diversity in the human race.
Comfort and Joy is a familiar phrase that will be so welcome this Christmas after another strange year of juggling too many things. Let your friends and family know that you're wrapping warm thoughts around them this Christmas.
Christmas can often be a busy time of preparation, cooking, hosting or visiting so our Rest Easy card is a reminder to find moments of peace and quiet at Christmas, to put your feet up and read a good book, to take time to reflect on the year behind you.
This year our Three Wise Women are all refugee or displaced women who have had to leave the countries of their birth - Judith Kerr, Yusra Mardini and Malala Yousafzai. In the year when Afghanistan imploded, it feels fitting to remember women and families who have had to flee for their safety.
We'd love you to share our Christmas cards with your local school, community or church group. Please download our Christmas card flyer 2021 and pass it on to all your friends and family!
Plus we've got our eight Christmas card designs from previous years. Our printer is experiencing some delays due to Covid unfortunately so you can order these Christmas cards now and they'll be sent out the week beginning 8 November. Put your order in now - you'll thank us for helping you to get organised! Click on the links or the images to go straight to the website.


Symbols and imagination are a part of our everyday life. One place where I worked, I had to deal with a particularly difficult person. Working with this person was problematic for me. I realized after a while that this person was like a huge giant in my life that I felt I had to overcome. One day while at a meeting I sat staring at this person. Suddenly I watched as the person began to shrink before my eyes. I could hardly believe it. The person became my size and then even smaller than I. From that day until I left that job, the person was no longer a problem for me.
Thomas Willadsen Mary Austin Christopher Keating Dean Feldmeyer Ron Love George Reed Bethany Peerbolte
For January 20, 2018:
God Activates by Tom Willadsen — Perhaps God wants us to delight in each other and in the magnitude and depth of divine love. Perhaps the Lord wants to activate our gifts of the Spirit, to use them for the common good.
We are all intimately connected as one body in Jesus. Isaiah celebrates our intimate union with our creator, describing us as the joyful bride of God. Though there had been alienation and rejection from both sides in the past, the prophet describes us as God’s delight. That connection is also emphasized in Paul’s oddly graphic description of church folks as body parts — we need each other because we are not a living, breathing body if we are somehow separated.
When Jesus visited a wedding at Cana in Galilee, he showed that human disappointments matter to him and that he would be prepared to redeem them. This is a story about a young girl's bitter disappointment when she became a bridesmaid.


16 Jun Virtual Reality Church – The Beginning
The Short: Don’t have time? Here’s the gist…
- We recently had the first-ever virtual reality church service.
- Our new ministry has a vision for innovation.
- We want to see the church innovate to new levels to curb the decline of spirituality in the western church.
- We believe in taking the good news of God’s love to where ever people are at…even in a virtual space.
- VR has porn. The porn industry is innovating. When will the church innovate in this new medium?
The Long: Have time? Read more…
We had a historic moment recently. The first-ever virtual reality church service went live in virtual reality headsets. If you want to get caught up on what’s the deal with VR, then I suggest you click HERE for my perspective of VR.
The new season of ministry we have embarked on has a large focus on innovation. We are dreaming, thinking, and executing new ways to do church and to spread the Good News of God’s love.
There is nothing intrinsically wrong with doing things by the book or in a traditional way. We never want to communicate that old method are ineffective. Traditional and by-the-book methods and/or models are extremely important in many contexts. However, a wise man once said that “We honor the past. We just don’t live there.”
In the light of that thought, we are exploring new ways to express spirituality. The message of Jesus Christ may stay the same, but methods always change. One of these methods is virtual reality.
VR has been an amazing. Games, short films, social interactions, and interactive education have been incredible. VR can do a myriad of things. It will be difficult to predict all the things it will do.
VR even has porn. You heard me right. Virtual porn. I haven’t experienced it, but from what I read, virtual porn is here with realistic sexual experiences. The other worlds I visited have been vividly real. I recently watched Lebron James take a few jump shots at a practice, and I can honestly say that I felt like I met Lebron. He was right in front of me. If that experience was anything like virtual porn, then VR will bring the strip joint right into people’s living room like a porn flick on tv could never do. (Please note: the Oculus Store, like the IOS store, does not have any mature rated content. You have to get the x-rated content from third-party sources, and load it into the virtual reality platform.)
This is extremely annoying to me. Not so much the explicit sexual content, but rather the lack of spiritual content of any kind in VR. In all my “travels” with VR, I haven’t seen anything spiritual. Nothing. Not even a simple “verse-of-the-day app” that we could interact with. Maybe there are individuals or faith-based organizations working on something, but I don’t know of any.
(Note: Not too long after writing this blog post, I found out that one of our elders, Alistair, was developing an app for the Bible.)
Porn is innovating, but what about the church? It feels like the church has been lagging behind in this technological age. I know I’m speaking VERY generally about the church because there are many of you out there that are innovating to new levels.
But my general observation is our “theological” stances against Hollywood movies, video games, and social media have made us ineffective in those mediums. We have become irrelevant. Only recently has the church engaged in these expressions, but the quality of our work suffers from our lack of experience.
Like I said before, I know I’m speaking very generally about the church. I appreciate the individuals, organizations, and churches who are innovating. You are pushing the boundaries and taking things to a new level.
We need innovation in the church. The western church is in decline, and we need new thought leaders to step up to reach this culture in a new era. We need divergent thinkers!
We want to encourage the creators, artists, innovators, thought leaders, and entrepreneurs to exercise your gifts to express the love of God. We believe that when people experience God, they will discover Him to be good.
I feel you. Some of you might think it’s not worth it to innovate in the church. The church can be the killer of innovation and new ideas. You may have to innovate and pioneer with little to no support behind you. However, we believe that God will resurrect the innovative spirit of the church.


On March 15th, I had a friend take the photo you see to your right. Upon looking at the picture, I realized that I hadn’t smiled like that in a really long time. I grabbed my phone and went to post an Instagram story. It said, “My heart is so full by the grace of the Lord … I don’t remember when the last time I smiled like this was. But God is so good, and loves me so fully; I have found the people, through Him, that make me this happy.” I couldn’t tell you exactly why I didn’t post that picture, but I think it has to do with where I was in confidence with Christ at that moment.
I spent most of last term in a rough place. I truly had no idea why I was at Vanderbilt. I was constantly asking myself, “What’s the point of all this?” “What am I supposed to be learning?” “Why did God put me here, specifically?” I felt lost, confused, and very alone.
At the time, I had been consistently attending a Christian Ministry group on campus, and while I enjoyed going, I was simply absorbing the information rather than truly internalizing it. And, at the time, I had no idea that these were not the same thing.
I grew up in a decently religious family, I’ve gone to Catholic Mass every (okay, most) Sundays for my entire life, and I have always considered myself a follower of Jesus. But, looking back on this, I don’t truly think I had received Christ. Why? Well, if I truly knew the power of the Holy Spirit and the overwhelming love of God, I don’t think I would’ve been asking myself why He placed me at Vanderbilt.
The picture you see above was taken a few days after one of my Christian Large Group meetings. The teaching that day was on the Holy Spirit, the one part of the Holy Trinity that no one had ever really taken the time to explain to me. Our Large Group leader explained the Holy Spirit as the convicter, the comforter, the guide of your life. The word “convicter” stuck out to me, and he continued to say that the Holy Spirit is the person that allows you to enter moments of darkness and despair in order to guide you back to the light of the Lord. He said, “The Holy Spirit is what says to us ‘To God, To God, To God. Turn to God.'” This explanation was life changing for me. I felt, in that moment, a hole in my heart begin to close. I felt, in that moment, the Holy Spirit well up inside me and say “THIS. This is why you were in such a place of darkness last term. Because you needed to submit yourself–fully, entirely, whole-heartedly–to God.”


Rev. Paula Retiring at Year End
Today I announced to the congregation that I will be retiring from my position as senior minister at the end of this year. My last Sunday will be Dec. 18.
I know this is the right decision for me, though I make it with a heavy heart. Unity Renaissance has been at the center of my life for some 9½ years. I love our community, and all of you, very much. At the same time, I am feeling complete with my ministry here. I’ve done what I came here to do, and it is time to pass the torch to new leadership.
Let me assure you that nothing happened to cause my decision other than my own inner urging to create the next chapter of my life. All is well with Richard and me, the Board, the staff, and the congregation. But I will be 68 in February, and time is precious. I am looking forward to having more time with my beloved Richard, with my precious children and grandchildren (including our first grandson due Jan. 3!), and more time for myself. I will spend much of 2023 resting and rejuvenating before contemplating what’s next.
Rev. Richard will not be retiring along with me. He will continue as Music Director for the foreseeable future. Rev. Ann DeMichael will also be continuing as Adult Education Director and Director of Prayer and Pastoral Care. Neither Richard nor Ann, both Unity ministers, is interested in applying for the senior minister position. Nevertheless, they will provide tremendous continuity and stability as we move forward, as will our exceptional Board, staff, and volunteers.
The Board is already in touch with Unity Worldwide Ministries to chart the way forward. In keeping with UWM’s recommendation, the Board will be looking to hire a transitional minister at the beginning of 2023 who will serve Unity Renaissance for several months. The role of the transitional minister is to help the church adjust to operating without the departing minister. The transitional minister will also work with the Board and congregation to move through the steps of hiring a new senior minister. You will be a vital part of that process. The Board is committed to keeping you informed and engaged through each phase of the ministerial search, via meetings, emails, regular updates, and Q&A sessions.
There is much more to understand about what will be happening at Unity Renaissance in the coming months and year. I encourage you to attend the Community Forum with our Board at 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2, to ask your questions and learn more.
Meanwhile, know that whatever you are feeling about this news is normal and okay. You may be sad, angry, shocked, in denial, or even excited about the changes to come. My own feelings are all over the map! As much as I look forward to retirement, I am very sad to be leaving you.
I will be holding small group meetings later in the fall to talk to you about what’s happening and process it together. This is a great time to put our spiritual tools into practice – to have faith in our community, and each other; to affirm Divine Order will prevail; and to know all will be well.
Here’s how you can best support Unity Renaissance in this time of change:
• First, recognize that the church is not the minister. Unity Renaissance is much bigger and stronger than the leadership of a single person. You are part of a spiritual community and a consciousness that continues on, no matter who is in charge.
• Second, lean in, not out. It’s normal for some people to think this would be a great time to take a break from church, and to stop attending, contributing, or volunteering. Please don’t! Community is strengthened when we stick together through times of change and shape our future together. You are a valued part of our spiritual family. Unity Renaissance needs you! Please take this opportunity to engage even more deeply with our spiritual family and find new ways to call this place your home.
• Third, hold positive intentions for our future minister and our evolving community. We have a strong Board, strong staff, and strong lay leadership. See this change opening the way for an exciting new era for Unity Renaissance.
I am grateful to have three more months with you before I go. It will be precious time indeed! I look forward to spending time with each of you, appreciating how far we’ve come, and focusing on what’s most important.
It has been the greatest honor and privilege of my life to serve all of you. I love Unity Renaissance more than words can ever express! Thank you for making this minister’s dreams come true.
Rev. Paula Mekdeci
FAQs on Rev. Paula’s Retirement
- Why is Rev. Paula retiring? After what will be nearly 9½ years of service, two capital campaigns, one prolonged pandemic, nearly 350 Sunday talks, and dozens of classes, Rev. Paula is feeling complete with her time here as senior minister. She will be turning 68 in February and wants more time for family, travel, hobbies and interests, friends, and herself. It is worth noting that Rev. Paula will have served longer than any of our previous ministers other than our founding minister, Rev. Judi Meyer, who served 16 years and retired at age 55.
- Did something happen to make Paula leave? Rev. Paula has been very clear that nothing happened, nothing is wrong, and that her relationships with her husband, family, and our Board, staff, and congregation are all healthy, happy, and strong. She is simply ready to create the next chapter of her life.
- When will her retirement be effective? Officially, Jan. 1, 2023, though Paula’s last Sunday will be Dec. 18, 2022.
- What will be happening between now and then? We will continue to operate as usual, with Sunday services, classes, workshops, social events, and meaningful time together. In addition, Rev. Paula will be available for one-on-one meetings with congregants as well as small group meetings to process this change and help us say goodbye.
- Is Rev. Richard leaving too? Richard will continue as music director, but recognizes that a new minister will have his or her own preferences for music choices and staffing.
- What if I’m feeling angry or excited that Rev. Paula is retiring? You have a right to your feelings, no matter what they are! Grief includes shock/denial, anger, bargaining, sadness, acceptance, and hope. You may feel a mix of these things. Or you may be excited that change is coming! Different people feel different things at different times; all of it is normal and okay.
- When will we get a new minister? Can’t we just hire a new one now? The Board will first work with Unity Worldwide Ministries to hire a Transitional Minister who will help the church learn to operate without Rev. Paula. The Transitional Minister is expected to join us in early 2023 and stay for several months. That person will guide us in the search for a new Senior Minister.
- Could Rev. Ann or Rev. Richard (both of whom are credentialed Unity ministers) be our new minister? Neither Rev. Ann DeMichael nor Rev. Richard Mekdeci is interested in filling the Senior Minister position. However, both will continue in their current roles at Unity Renaissance – Ann as Director of Prayer and Pastoral Care and Director of Adult Education, and Richard as Music Director and teacher in Adult Education.
- Could someone else from our congregation be Senior Minister (Tom Baker, Rev. Margaret, etc.)? As a Unity church, we are required to hire a credentialed Unity leader as our minister. At the present time, Rev. Ann and Rev. Richard are the only credentialed Unity ministers in our congregation.
- Why do we need a Transitional Minister? When a minister leaves after having successfully served a congregation for many years, Unity Worldwide Ministries recommends a buffer time before the new minister is hired. This gives the congregation time to grieve and adjust to operating without the departing minister. The Transitional Minister will lead the church during that time and steer the change process.
- What is the process for selecting the Transitional Minister? Unity Worldwide Ministries will provide our Board with the names and background information on a few qualified individuals who could serve as Transitional Minister. These are Unity ministers who have specifically been trained for this work for 2-3 years. Our Board will review the candidates, conduct interviews, and select the individual who is best suited to our community.
- Can the Transitional Minister stay if we like him or her? Unity Worldwide Ministries’ guidelines specifically forbid the transitional minister from staying on or applying for the permanent Senior Minister position.
- What is the process for hiring a new Senior Minister? How long will it take? The Transitional Minister will lead us in the search process for a new Senior Minister. The process includes developing a church packet to inform potential candidates of the opening, and the formation of a Ministerial Search Team to lead the effort. The Ministerial Search Team will send out the application packet, review all applications, determine finalists, and invite finalists to come to Unity Renaissance to give a Sunday talk and workshop, participate in a Q&A with the congregation, and meet separately with the Board and key staff. After all finalists have visited and presented, the Ministerial Search Team will make a recommendation to the Board for consideration. The process will likely take several months.
- Who will decide who the next minister is? The Board of Trustees will make the final decision, taking into account the recommendation of the Ministerial Search Team and input from the congregation.
- Who will be on the Ministerial Search Team? The Transitional Minister will support the Board in creating a Ministerial Search Team. The Board will appoint one Trustee to serve as a liaison to the Ministerial Search Team, and will review applications from congregants for the remaining members.
- Will the congregation have a vote? No, but the congregation will be asked for feedback after each candidate’s talk, workshop, and Q&A. Since the role of Senior Minister involves much more than Sunday services, the Ministerial Search Team and ultimately the Board will need to evaluate their administrative and business skills as well as their pastoral and presentation skills.
- What will the Board be looking for in a new minister? The Board and Ministerial Search team will be looking for someone who aligns with our vision, mission, and values, and can take Unity Renaissance to the next level in terms of growth and impact. Cultivating and embracing diversity will continue to be central to who we are. In all we do, we will be guided by our Core Values:
- Love – With open hearts, we behold, affirm, and embrace the highest and best in each person.
- Acceptance – All people are welcome here.
- Creativity – We give our spiritual gifts in diverse and inspiring ways.
- Spirit-Centered – Attuned to God, we emanate peace, love and wisdom.
- Community – We care about one another and cherish opportunities to give, love, serve, and celebrate together.
- Will our new minister be younger? Female or male? White or Black? We don’t know! It depends on the best qualified and best suited candidate to lead our church.
- Who will be the primary Sunday speaker after Paula leaves? We will likely rely on guest speakers (and many of the spiritual leaders in our congregation) and the Transitional Minister until the new Senior Minister arrives.
- How will the church and ministry operate after Paula leaves? Who will fill her role as CEO to lead the staff and organization? The Transitional Minister will serve as CEO initially, and the new Senior Minister thereafter. We also have an exceptional staff who have worked with Paula in the day-to-day operation of Unity Renaissance who will continue to be in place for the foreseeable future.
- Will the Transitional Minister change things or keep them the same until the new Senior Minister gets here? Change is inevitable. The Transitional Minister will be here not to keep everything as it is, but to help the congregation prepare for what’s next. The Transitional Minister will also help the congregation work through its feelings and let go of how things have been with Rev. Paula. This will prepare the way for the new Senior Minister, and the exciting talents and opportunities they bring!
- What have you done before when the minister left? When Rev. Laura Bennett left, we followed the same process (church packet, Ministerial Search Team, tryouts, etc.), and it worked very well. Congregants felt informed and involved, and the Board made the final decision.
- How will Youth Education be affected? We are blessed to have strong leadership in Youth Education with Director Ana Vincent and Assistant Director Bea Clendenin. Both of them will continue in their current capacity, teaching our children Unity principles and supporting them in their social and spiritual growth. It will be up to the new Senior Minister whether there are changes in programming or personnel down the road. However, our youth will remain a top priority for Unity Renaissance.
- Will our music change? It may. That will be up to the next Senior Minister. Rev. Richard and the Unity Renaissance Music Team and U.R. Singers will continue on. It will be up to the new Senior Minister whether there are changes in programming down the road.
- Will we still have classes? Absolutely! Adult Education will continue to operate and hopefully grow. Classes are a mainstay in the Unity Movement – a key way for us to deepen our spiritual understanding, and bond with one another.
- Will our theology change? No! Unity Renaissance is, and will remain, a Unity church. As such, it embraces the teachings of Unity, and Unity’s emphasis on prayer, education, and community. The Unity movement honors (as Rev. Paula says each Sunday) “all paths to God, all names for God, and all expressions for God.” It is based on the teachings of Jesus, the power of prayer, and a metaphysical interpretation of the Bible. These are foundational to Unity and do not change from minister to minister.
- What are the biggest changes the community needs to be prepared for? Not having Rev. Paula here will be the biggest change! Beyond that, things will change as our new credentialed leaders come on board. We don’t yet know how, but we will all be part of that change. In fact, we are here to shape the future for Unity Renaissance. After we let go of the old, we will be ready to step into an exciting future together.
- After she retires, will Rev. Paula be able to attend church here? Can she participate in classes and events? Under Unity’s ministerial Code of Ethics, Rev. Paula must “release her ministry” after she leaves. That means she must cease all involvement with the church. This is done so the new order may be established without people holding on to the past. Once a minister leaves a congregation, it takes time for both the minister and the congregation to adjust to this new reality. If, after at least one year after the hiring of our new Senior Minister, Rev. Paula wishes to inquire about returning to active membership, she may speak with the new minister and Unity Worldwide Ministries to determine the best path forward.
- Can we still contact Paula after she retires? Can we call, email, or contact her via social media? As hard as it is, the answer is no. It is best to make a clean break.
- What if we’re personal friends? Well, we all feel like personal friends at Unity Renaissance! But you are asked to not contact Rev. Paula. It is not that Paula doesn’t care; it’s that she is bound by the Code of Ethics.
- What if I’d like Rev. Paula to perform a wedding or memorial service? The Transitional Minister (and eventually new Senior Minister) will be available to perform special services; Rev. Ann DeMichael and Rev. Richard Mekdeci are also qualified to conduct such ceremonies.
- What if a member of the staff needs Paula’s help, guidance or direction based on things she created and/or led when she was minister? We will need to find our way without her.
- How can I best support the church during this transition?
- First, recognize that the church is not the minister. Unity Renaissance is much bigger and deeper than the leadership of a single person. You are part of a spiritual community and a consciousness that continues on, no matter who is in charge.
- Second, lean in, not out. It’s normal for some people to think this would be a great time to take a break from church, and to stop attending, giving, or volunteering. Please don’t! Community is strengthened when we stick together through times of change and shape our future together. You are a valued part of our spiritual family. We need you and we hope you take this opportunity to engage even more deeply with Unity Renaissance and find new ways to call this place your home.
- Third, hold positive intentions for our future minister and our evolving community. We have a strong Board, strong staff, and strong lay leadership. See this change opening the way for an exciting new era for Unity Renaissance.
- Who should I contact with questions? You may submit your questions to the email address Unityrentransition@gmail.com. A member of the Board will monitor the email and get you a response.
As we step into our journey of transition, the board is working diligently to ensure continuity within our community. We have had several meetings with Toni Boehm at UWM who is helping us in our search for a transitional minister. Toni will be sending out a request to the Transitional Ministers team on November 1, 2022. After that we will meet with the potential Transitional Ministers and select the one who is the best fit for Unity Renaissance. Rest assured the Board is meeting regularly with Toni and Pat Bessey, our Eastern Region consultant, to make this transition as smooth as possible. If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to reach out to a board member or email us at the transition email, firstname.lastname@example.org. This email is monitored daily and a board member will get back to you. We will come through this together, stronger and better than ever.
Valerie Winters,Board Vice President
“We Are Here For You” – Rev. Paula Mekdeci – December 10, 2020
Dear Friends, The holidays can be wondrous and joyful, but can also bring up feelings of sadness or grief. This year, because...Read more »


Confirmation students and their Pastors and/or Leaders are invited to join us for a weekend of creative teaching, fun outdoor activites, and community building. Youth will explore the traditions of the church while experiencing the beauty of God's Wolrd. This weekend will provide a great opportunity for everyone to grow in their faith.
2012 Confirmation Retreat
February 24-26, 2012
Friday 7:00 PM - Sunday 11:00 AM
$90 per Student
Adult Chaperones are FREE
Registration Deadline is February 15, 2012. Print Registration Materials HERE.
- One of our most popular events!
December 28-30, 2013 1:00 PM - 1:00 PM
3-12 Grades $85 per person
Wintertainment is a great chance to reunite with friends from the summer and make new ones in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Come out and enjoy Winter Olympics, Morning Worship, Tubing, Bible Studies, Camp Jam, Campfires, Broomball and so much more.