Although I do not remember my first church service, I am guessing it was just days after my birth. I was raised in the church, attending services twice on Sundays and once on Wednesdays. Many of the remaining days of the week were spent attending church-related activities. My father insisted there was no excuse for missing a service and demanded we always arrive on time (as he often said, “It’s better to arrive a half hour early than show up even one minute late.”)
He was also strict about our behavior in church. We must dress properly, refrain from making noise or causing a distraction, must pay attention, remain alert (and awake)…well, let’s just say that there were many rules of good conduct by which we were admonished to abide. One “look” from Daddy was all it took to make certain we were in our best form.
But he may have missed some of our antics (or perhaps he chose to overlook them from time to time.) Sometimes I’d lay down in the pew. And sometimes I’d fall asleep. Sometimes we’d whisper and giggle with our friends, stopping only when an adult turned around and scowled. And I am loathe to admit it but sometimes we’d make fun of the elderly lady with the blue hair.
So it is with some amusement and much enlightenment that I finished reading a booklet about the South Fork Baptist Church written by Mildred “Millie” Wilson Rule. By reviewing the Books of Minutes from the church’s archives, she relates some of the church’s “Rules of Decorum”. These rules, she noted, were rigidly enforced by the pastor, the deacons and other members of the association.
Millie writes, “We are told that, in the early church, discipline was strict and the church was concerned about the life and conduct of its members…Besides parental discipline, the church members had ways of disciplining each other.” She later adds, “There is evidence that occasionally in their zeal for ‘warning, rebuking, and admonishing’ they forgot about ‘walking together in brotherly love’”.
My father had attended that church. Could it be that this is where he learned his strict code of conduct? Could it be that he received “the look” from his own father when, as a lad, Dad’s behavior was less than acceptable? Could it be that he was practicing, and passing down to his family, the rules Millie transcribed in her book which included:
“Any member failing to attend three church meetings in succession will be required to give satisfaction to the church for their absence.”
“In-as-much as order and decency becomes the House of God no whispering or laughing in the time of a speech, no loitering or lying down in time of a session will be expected.”
“No member shall cast any reflections or make remarks on the slips, failures, or imperfections of any other member on pain of the censure of the church.”
If my father was under such scrutiny, it would certainly explain a lot. It may also be the reason why Daddy overlooked some of my lesser moments. I could have been one of those members that was “censured and excluded” for breaking the rules. While I had never missed three church meetings in a row, I would have certainly attempted to explain away any other perceived infractions. To my father: “I wasn’t sleeping. I was just resting my eyes.” And to the elderly lady: “Blue is definitely your color.”
You can read the entire transcript of Mildred Rule’s book, “The South Fork Baptist Church - A History”, by clicking here. Her transcription of the Books of Minutes mentions topics such as the church’s earliest history, its organization and transformation through the years, names of pastors and members, the introduction of Sunday School, the cemetery and, of course, the “Rules of Decorum”.


Starting Fall of 2017, The Free will be meeting two times a week: Jr. High on Thursday nights at 6:30pm and Sr. High on Fridays at 7pm.
Interested in Serving at the Free? Click on the button below to get more information and see how you can be a part!Serve
Our Friday night gathering is our opportunity to express our love to God through engaging worship and relevant teaching, and is the best way to connect with our ministry. Service begins at 7pm but our doors open at 6pm to provide students with a place to hang out with their peers and youth leaders.
Tommy was born in Omaha, Nebraska, and grew up in New York City and on the north side of Chicago. He obtained an Associates degree in audio engineering from SAE Institute Chicago, and currently serves as the leader of the Production and Technology Ministry. Tommy has served in the Youth Ministry for many years and has a heart to connect the youth of Chicago to the message and love of Jesus.


On 8/18, the Christ the King varsity soccer team won their home non-conference game against Gray Stone Day (Misenheimer, NC) by a score of 3-0. Gray Stone Day 0. Christ the King 3. Final.
Welcome to the Christ the King Boys Soccer team feed. The most recent updates will appear at the top of the wall dating back to prior seasons. Help this team get started or use the top navigation to find past season schedules, scores, rosters and more. Get this season started out right and help the team fill out their schedule and roster.
See more videos for Christ The King Soccer
Fall Girls Soccer Tryout Dates 2021/2022 Season Tryouts for the Christ the King Girls soccer team will be on Monday and Tuesday August 23rd and 24th from 9:00AM - 10:30 AM. Tryouts will take place at the grass field with the following address: Juniper Blvd North and 77th Street in Middle Village, NY 11379. Wear cleats and brings plenty of water.
A fun soccer program built to introduce competition with old friends and new ones. Your child will be placed on a team for the season, come to a weekly practice and play against another church at the weekends. All practices are held at Christ the King and games will be against other teams from the Archdiocese of Atlanta.
What Varsity Soccer @ Christ The King When 10/20/2021, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Where Christ the King Catholic High School, 2011 Crusader Way, Huntersville, NC 28078, USA
Christ the King prides itself on having a vast and diverse athletic program. Good sportsmanship and Christianity are prevalent throughout the program, making these sports wonderful character building activities for our youth. Registration is completed through Final Forms. http://toledodiocese-oh.finalforms.com/.
The Christ the King soccer program is still having soccer tryouts for the 2012 Fall season from 3:00-5:00 PM at Brennan Field in Middle Village located at 6136-6157 Lutheran Ave Middle Village, NY 11379. Tryouts will take place from August 29th until September 5th.
The aim of the extracurricular sports program at Christ the King Catholic School (CKS) is to endow all athletes with disciplined minds, healthy bodies, competitive spirits, and a desire to excel. The program is under the management of the Athletic Director. SPORTS AND LEAGUES AVAILABLE. Only students that participate in the Dallas Parochial League may represent Christ the King Catholic School.
Games @ Christ The King location will be on Saturday's. Games @ Grosse Ile location will be on Sunday's. Deadline to register August 20th @ 11:59pm. Any registrations received after that time will be subject to a $15/player late fee.
STREAMING Today ! San Jacinto Christian Academy vs Christ the King Cathedral High School Soccer Live Streaming HDWatch Here : https://stream.stream4khd.com/h...


Knights of Columbus
GW Knights of Columbus, Council 13242
The GW Knights of Columbus is a vehicle for Catholic men on campus to develop an authentic and mature Catholic spirituality. As Knights, we devote ourselves to serving the community through service projects like painting St. Stephen Martyr’s parish hall and raising money for the Kennedy Institute for developmentally disabled adults. We participate in Newman Center activities and strive to be some of its most active members. We also participate in service projects with Knights from DC, Virginia, Georgetown University, Catholic University, American University and Howard University. We sponsor campus talks, retreats, and many other activities. We work with other campus organizations to promote the sanctity of all human life. We strive to live as Catholic gentlemen, proclaiming the Gospel by the daily examples of our lives. We are committed to speaking the truth in the classroom and on campus
For more information contact us at firstname.lastname@example.org
Visit our website for more!


You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it useful again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless. You are the light of the world-like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.
Matthew 5:13-16Matthew 5:13-16
English: Contemporary English Version (1999) - CEV
Salt and Light 13 ; You are like salt for everyone on earth. But if salt no longer tastes like salt, how can it make food salty? All it is good for is to be thrown out and walked on. 14 . You are like light for the whole world. A city built on top of a hill cannot be hidden, 15 ; . and no one would light a lamp and put it under a clay pot. A lamp is placed on a lampstand, where it can give light to everyone in the house. 16 . Make your light shine, so that others will see the good that you do and will praise your Father in heaven.
I recently heard a man named Francis Chan speak on this passage (among other things). What he had to say was direct and challenging. When’s the last time you served God and the viewers responded with praise to God?
It is fairly common for us to serve, and for us to hear people say, “Oh, you did a great job with that.” Or, “God has really blessed you.” But when was the last time you served and someone said, “Wow, God is just so awesome!” Or, “I can’t believe God is like that!” That’s a lot different.
Francis wanted to pray for us, that we would experience the Holy Spirit in a way that two things would be noticeable: One, that we would know it wasn’t our own ability and strengths – when we serve, that the service and outcome come from the Holy Spirit. The second, that people would respond with praise to God, not us. That they would be so stunned by the outpouring of the Spirit that they can say nothing but, “That was God.”
We serve and people will see. We are an example of God. But a good example points to something else, not itself. That is my prayer for us today.


Easter Egg Hunt: Over 1,000 eggs stuffed with candy and prizes. Our annual Easter Egg Hunt is free for kids and families in our community. It takes place at the church and is an excellent way for individuals and families to serve and connect with families in our community.
Vacation Bible School: Each Summer our church holds VBS. This fun week is an incredible opportunity for us to reach families in our community. We have a place for you to use your gifts and interests to show kids the love of Christ.
Crisis Care Kits: Every year we put together kits that have some basic supplies for those caught in a disaster: shampoo, soap, toothpaste, hand towels, and more. When a crisis happens either here or around the world, these kits get sent out to people who need them.
Operation Christmas Child: This Christmas time project is great for the whole family! Families put together Christmas gift boxes to be sent to child around the world. For greater family involvement, track your Christmas Shoebox to the nation of its final destination!


Photography has been my longest passion. I love capturing and freezing a moment in life, with the intention of making it a perpetual memory that would transcend decades and generations to come.... Throughout the years and experience in life, I have come to the conclusion that love and passion are the strongest forces that move the world. I have many loves in life, I love God and every representation of His love through nature. It amazes me every time I see the beauty in life, the ever changing body of a mother during pregnancy, the way her eyes glow, the way her body changes with curvatures that only represent joy and love! We are truly and wonderfully made!!!
Click on the image to visit: CEAphotography
CEAphotoghapy.com is the website we created for our photography services.
Please visit it to see our High Definitions photographies.


In later years, Jacob came to this place when he was running from home and he saw a ladder in a vision, come down from God. He called the place Bethel. But at the time Abram came, he came as a sojourner, a stranger in a strange land; and at this place he first viewed the Promised Land. Then a famine came, and the man who by faith had crossed deserts, rivers and mountains, under pressure of circumstance after his first moves of faith, lost his faith. Don’t give the devil too much power. He is not omniscient; he does not know what is going to happen before it happens. That is true of God’s nature, not the devil’s. Now, once the devil finds out what’s going on, he starts going to work on you. So when this man of faith obeyed, the devil started getting concerned; and under pressure, Abraham lost faith. There was a famine in the land, and the man who had trusted God now trusted his own sight. He went down to Egypt because the famine was so grievous in the Promised Land. And when he took his first bending of the path from the way of faith, and it is always this way, sin seems to produce sin.
God is doing things here, and unlike the nine men Jesus healed
who did not come back to thank Him, one came back to recognize His
power. I can put that into a broader analogy than just healing.
I hope as you watch God do things, you are not unaware He is steering and sorting
and shaking and separating and putting together that which He needs to
do for what He intends to do. The little things are sometimes unnoticed
by Christians. There are people who have their ego and their feelings and
their history and their identity with traditions and everything else so
clouded around their head they cannot see God when He is working.
Focus in on the message and you will see God’s hand.
Jesus said, “which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding
cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go
and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready
wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and
drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?”: added attention to the
master himself, even after having worked for the master all day. “Doth
he thank that servant because he did those things that were commanded
him? I trow not,” He said.
In modern language, “I should say not.” And then He applies it: “So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.”
The second thing Ezekiel 44 shows is that, while God shouldn’t
have to make a choice, if He has to make a choice, He will put the
priority on ministry to Himself rather than the outer court. He shouldn’t
have to choose. But in this chapter where extremes are drawn, where
God places a priority, He says, “Let it suffice you of your abominations;
keep on in the outer court ministry, you who haven’t been faithful in my
charge; but the faithful ones, you come near to me.” He puts the priority
in this inner court.
The second item is no more glamorous than the first: “They shall
come near to me to minister unto me, and they shall stand before me,” in
that Old Testament sense of “stay there a while.”
“Well now, wait a minute, God! I’m in here now. You’ve created the world in days. I’m
here, I am ministering to You; bless me quickly because the crowd is out
While I’m in here, there are at least 15 ‘while you were out’ messages on my desk. The world that You sent Your Son to die for is begging for attention. Get it over with!”
Here is item two, just as simple as the first: you’ve tuned it out
and you’ve tuned Him in, so stay there a while. What does the Scripture
say? “They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall
mount up….” (Isaiah 40:31)
John Wright Follette used to say that God is very apt in His illustrations. You notice He didn’t say, “They shall mount up with wings as geese.” Have you ever seen a goose by itself? It honks its head off until it finds a crowd. Only the eagle can hang up
there by himself. Now down in the bottom of the Grand Canyon the
walls look towering, but up at 5,000 feet everything falls into place.
God’s Word says, “They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their
strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles.” Wait awhile.
Peter says, “No prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20) I don’t really know which particular act will put someone beyond the pale, but I know the psychological results: when you have committed it, you won’t worry about it anymore, because the Holy Spirit will turn you over to a strong delusion, you will believe a lie and be damned. You will no longer worry about God! You won’t be in a panic, you won’t want God; you will have settled it. The Spirit is gone; there is no longer any drawing.
So thank God if you still want to come: He hasn’t given up on you yet. Don’t let anybody beat you over the head. As long as you want to come to God, the source of that wanting is, in the scriptural pattern, the Father calling you. David said, “Where is he?” You are not the initiator. Thank God! There are times I don’t know why God wants me, but amazing grace and glory to God, as long as He does, I know the door is open. The initiative starts with God, and you are not brought to God by chance. When He starts scratching the surface or pounding on the door, thank God. This story puts it in dramatic perspective; David is asking, “Where is he?”
Loneliness, misunderstanding; is there anybody here today who feels totally misunderstood?
Don’t just hear words. Let it sink in a minute. You can let it beat you down as you look at your circumstance, or you can look up now and realize you are in the presence of a King.
What better company could you have? You may say, “Oh, I’ve heard that before.” Yes, that’s right, and if you have a pernicious heart of unbelief, it will go right past you; but if you hear the Word of the Lord today, Psalm 139 says, “O LORD, Thou…knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path.” God draws a circle around you.
I don’t want to preach just words to a crowd today; I want God’s Word to reach into the heart of someone who has heard that verse a hundred times who never really understood or really believed that God was speaking over the centuries to you. God draws a circle around you.
How many have heard the Word when it says, “We are a peculiar people”? (1 Peter 2:9) Do you know how you have to translate that Greek word? You put a dot on a piece of paper and draw a circle around it. That is about the only way you can really translate that word:
we are in focus. God, like a spotlight, “compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways….” This is your promise, “If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me. If I say, Surely the darkness will cover me; even the night will be light about me; for the day and the night are alike to thee.” (Psalm 139:3-12) “Lift up now thine eyes…from the place where thou art.”
The scribes came down on Jesus; they “said within themselves, This man blasphemeth.”
And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,) Arise, take up thy bed , and go unto thine house.” (Matthew 9:3-6)
As an aside, it always amuses me that in the New Testament, they weren’t shocked with miracles at all. They found it easy to believe in miracles of healing. They were shocked when Jesus forgave sins. We have turned that around in much of today’s church world. Now we expect Jesus to forgive sins, but we are overly impressed if He performs miracles. Jesus puts it in proper perspective here: the miracles play second fiddle to the forgiveness of sins.
But I don’t think this man sick of palsy is alone. I would guess, in spite of the false front, there are some tormented with the same problem tormenting that man sick of palsy. No matter how much we preach against it and no matter how much we say that we have access by faith into a sphere of grace, way down deep in the secret heart of many of those who are sick is that nagging, hindering, pressuring fear: “I have done something wrong.”
If this message fits you, you are the one I am talking to. Your courage is gone; you can’t overcome your surface problem because of a nagging pressure that there is some sin you know about in your life that stands between you and that which you can receive from God. The message is the same today as it was then. I would hang a thread out and let these verses be the beads that I string on the thread; and the thread is “Jesus Christ the same, yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
Now, I hope you’ll hear me very closely here. Notice who made the issue: it wasn’t Elisha, it was the crowd. They put the pressure on him. You don’t find Elisha saying, “Hey, you bunch of non-spiritual hypocritical sons of the prophets, if you had what you ought to have from God, you’d be chasing me to Jordan.”
Some people who get involved in seeking spiritual things are forever creating issues with their own search. Now hear me closely. They are not satisfied to be hungry and seek after God’s best, but they pause at every stop on the journey to lecture the sons of the prophets because they are not making the same journey. I’m fishing for the uncommon man today. But Elisha was not concerned with the nonspirituality, if it existed, of the sons of the prophets. He was concerned about one thing: he felt that after 11 years of dedicated ministry there was something from God he still wanted and needed, and he would not let go until he got it; and he did not create the issue.
This inner court ministry is hidden, and because it is hidden there is only one motivation, and that is the second reason I think God puts it in priority: only your love for God will bring you in here. In the outer court, acclaim for accomplishments can keep you going. Somebody sitting there says, “I want you to watch that man. I never have seen a guy that can get as many animals slain in one 24-hour period in my life. He can lead more people into repentance and into dedication than any 10 other guys in the court.” And subtly, before you know it, you might slip into outer court performance because it is seen. You might do that because it is seen; you do this because He wants it.
Last, because it is hidden, there is only one way to evaluate ministry to the Lord. In the outer court, skills differentiate. You know, some people just have a way with the knife. They not only get the job done, but when they lead somebody to repentance and offer that sacrifice, they just have such a flourish in the way they do it that you forget for a moment what is being done in the joy of watching the performance.
They just grab the sacrifice and the knife, and they do it with a sweep and grace. You like to watch them perform in the outer court while other people are all thumbs. “I’ll get the sacrifice offered, and you may cringe thinking I’ll cut a thumb off in the process, but I’ll get it done.”
How many people feel they have no place in the Kingdom because they lack skills?
I was preaching at a meeting in a little church in the corner of Houston, a suburb, and went to see a large church service that night. I watched the center seating area fill with response to the altar call. When I went back to preach that night. I felt about a foot tall by comparison. I don’t think I’m alone.
Many of us want to work for God, but we don’t feel we have the gifts. I’m not putting gifts down: wonderful are the gifts that are dedicated to God. Some people have a way with the knife; the way they perform makes them a stellar standout in the outer court; others, the majority of us would stumble out there while we’re getting the job done.
In the inner court, you can’t do it any better than I can do it. I can minister to the Lord just as well as you can; skills don’t count in here. You’ll never get so tired that you can’t minister to the Lord with as much grace, and you’ll never get so old that you can’t minister to the Lord with as much grace as anybody else in here. Oh, if God would just drive it home, the wondrous grace of God, and will you hear it: God put the priority on that which each of us can do equally. Doesn’t that make you want to say “Hallelujah” to Him? If He had separated us out here, in the outer court, only those with skills would stand high with Him. But God drives home the truth: that which is most important to Him, each of us can do equally.
In John 17, Jesus prays a high priestly prayer, the true “Lord’s Prayer.” The traditional Lord’s Prayer is really the Disciples’ Prayer: Jesus never prayed that one, He told us to pray it. The Lord’s Prayer is in John 17. Jesus prays, “Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that He may also glorify thee: restore me to the place that I had with you.” He says, “Father, I pray not for the world, but for them which you have given me out of the world,” and later on includes you and me because He includes all who hear the Word that they preach. His prayer in essence is “Father, while I was with them I kept them,” it is that with-ness relationship, “but I am no longer in the world, I come to thee.”
He had come from the Father: Emmanuel, God with us. “While I was with them,” He says, “I kept them; but I am no longer in the world, I come to thee.” Now, what will the disciples do? “Father, you keep them.” How? “Make them one as you and I are one; I in them, they in me,” and He prays for that Presence of life to come.
After the Resurrection, on the day of Pentecost, Peter could testify that because Jesus had sent that promised Comforter, that is proof He sat down as the living Savior at the side of the Father. So as we speak of Resurrection on Easter Sunday, we speak of a living
Savior. We speak of life. We speak of God breaking through eternity’s barriers and coming onto the stage of history to bring God’s life where we are.


As I sit here I am at a loss for words. For some moments in life there are no words. I've prayed to God for answers and healing but that isn't what is in his plans. A little over a year ago I found out a close friend was actually blood, my uncle. We had worked a lot together on the farms but we were both unaware we were kin and in fact he was my uncle. My mother and him shared the same father, and neither was aware until they were both grown adults. I helped them meet for the first time, since I obviously knew my mother and knew him well. Their bond became so strong and ours grew even stronger over the last year. It’s sad but the Uncles I grew up with and looked up to really have nothing to do with me much now other than one Love Ya Monty. But my new found family was closer than any of them and he called on a weekly basis and helped me like none other, hauling cattle, working cattle, moving cattle, and even feeding cattle when it was needed. Over the last month he began telling me his sinuses were acting up and that he had taken every drug under the sun to try and help but it wasn't. It gradually got worse and he couldn't sleep and had a terrible migraine all the time. But this didn't slow him down from feeding cows twice a day and coming to help me out. He did finally go to the doctor and was diagnosed with Pneumonia and began treatment, it helped but still didn't cure his problem. Two Sundays ago I got a call at about 6:30AM and it was him saying he was in the hospital that he couldn't take it anymore. He was admitted for a severe case of Pneumonia and was to undergo treatment to help him get better. He kept telling me I'll be back out there to feed in a few days, this shit ain't gonna kill me I'm to ornery. A week later and he was still there and the news came that a mass had been found on his lung. He was then transferred to Ruby Memorial where the prognosis was what I had feared CANCER. But reassurance that it wasn't bad. My Uncles condition deteriorated faster than I have ever seen and the last resort was to place him on life support and began treatment. We prayed to God and asked for his healing hands to help us and my Uncle overcome this obstacle. He had different plans and we were notified the cancer was a very aggressive type that had consumed his body, and treatment was not a viable option at this point. I try not to ask why because I know it is not for me to understand but to let my faith be to the higher powers above, but one cannot help but ask why him? Anyone that knows my uncle knows that he would give you the shirt right off his back ten times over if he knew it would help you. To sit and think ten days ago he shook my hand and said Thank You for simply helping him out, we were feeding cows ten days ago, living the dream we both envied. Our family losing a member we yet just met, but I believe it was Gods fate that put that path before us to make sure we all knew. As I sit here the family is gathering to say their final goodbyes as the choice has been handed to discontinue the machines. I made the choice to stay here on the farms and remember my uncle as a strong willed, funny caring man that loved me and the last handshake that consumed my grip and a bond that tied our love like a solid knot. I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love, happiness, and joy. Believe in Angels. They express themselves in many ways, a dream, a whisper, coincidence an overpowering feeling. Even on your darkest days there is an angel by your side to guide you along the way. We love you Bimbo. I ask you all to pray for my Mother Angela Dunbrack Wilfong and the rest of our family as we follow the path God has laid before us. A path none have chosen but a path we trust is the choice of God.
Dear Heavenly Father,
with heavy hearts we come to you. Thank you for the comfort we find in
your presence. Through the Holy Spirit we know your presence is with us.
Send us your peace Lord; the peace that passes all understanding. Don’t
let us waiver and doubt. Give us a faith that is everlasting. We
release our lives into your hands. As we wait and watch, we know Lord
that none of us will escape this journey through death. Teach us how to
embrace it with faith. Give us strength to hold up those who are
stepping closer to seeing you face to face. Take away the fear in the
heart of our loved one who will soon see you; let them find peace in
your grace, comfort in your love, and strength in Your mighty power over
death. Comfort us as our grief seems to overpower us. In Jesus name
AMEN! Written by: Ben Wilfong (nephew)


Bryan, is my first born son and a total joy to my heart. I love him more than I love myself. To share some of the images from his and Jess' photo session this spring is a such a deep blessing to me. They are beautiful together and fun and so well synced. I watched them as I photographed them, letting them do their own thing at times. I saw the joy and the love between them and any insecurities drifted away. My blessings on this marriage fill my heart for them and my prayers that God's hand will lead them ever closer to Him and His grace are forever on my tongue. My deepest hope for Bryan past a strong and fruitful "faith", is that he will be loved and cherished by his wife and that he may do the same for her. This sure is a beautiful beginning for just that beautiful hope. We are honored to except Jessica into our family and we already love her. I'm honored to have gotten the chance to call her daughter. Their hearts are just beautiful and it's my deepest wish that the portraits I chose to share here give you a glimpse of their beauty together! - Shannon d. Edwards
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2 edition of royal priesthood of the faithful found in the catalog.
royal priesthood of the faithful
Date of publication from title page verso.
|The Physical Object|
|Pagination||264 p. ;|
|Number of Pages||264|
The art of collaboration
The hour of the gate.
Laws of Ghana (Revised Edition) Act, 1998
Does involvement of women in BRAC influence sex bias in intra-household food distribution?
PR LSAT 1995 (Princeton Review: Cracking the LSAT)
Learning to teach
Learning to use Microsoft QuickBASIC.
Atlas of laser applications in dentistry
Condition factor and statolith aging in assessment of metamorphosis in sea lampreys (petromyzon marinus) in The Great Lakes
Muscle metabolic response to track exercise in standardbred trotters
The cathedrals of Normandy
Astons, Rhodes, and Normans, with the related families of Hollands, Langstons, and Porters
Rv Park & Campground Directory, 1991
Such pertinent and far-reaching questions are discussed in the book. The author deals with the development of the doctrine of the royal priesthood of the faithful, showing that it is based on the Bible, is strongly supported by the church fathers, and is prominent in the writings of theologians of the Middle by: 4.
But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people set apart. 1 Peter Growingnumbers of ecclesial lay ministers are helping fulfill the needs of theBody of Christ.
This book gives innovative suggestions for an expandedrole of the Format: Paperback. The book I read has a red dust cover and maroon red binding. The chapters are on the interpretation of "priesthood of all believers" according to Luther, Calvin, Anglicanism, Puritan Tradition, and Methodism, with the author's conclusions and reinterpretations in Cited by: The Priesthood of the Faithful explores this key doctrine of Vatican II clearly taught that the baptized become a holy priesthood.
Their personal fidelity and lives led in loving obedience to the Gospel become spiritual sacrifices offered along with the body of the Lord in the Eucharist/5. With the declining numbers of priests in the Catholic Church, the priesthood of the faithful, as defined in Lumen Gentium of Vatican II, is a sign of hope for the future of the you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy Pages: Priesthood of the Faithful should be required reading for lay ministry formation and for those who are in RCIA or baptismal preparation leadership.
Leaders in liturgical ministry and adult faith formation groups will also benefit richly from Philibert’s work Richard E. McCarron, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Liturgy, 5/5(1).
1 Peter New International Version (NIV). 9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.
Royal Priesthood. These chosen believers were called out from the world to be a royal priesthood. For an audience that was probably primarily Jewish, this would have stood out.
In the Old Testament, the monarchy and the priesthood were strictly separated. Priest came from the lineage of Aaron from the tribe of Levi.
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Contemporary English Version. But you are God's chosen and special people.
You are a group of royal priests and a holy nation. God has brought you out. The authors look at the priesthood of all believers in terms of the biblical witness, the contribution of Martin Luther and the doctrine of the Trinity.
They place this concept in the context of the canonical description of Israel and the church as a royal priesthood that responds to God in witness and service to the world/5(14). Such pertinent and far-reaching questions are discussed in the book.
The author deals with the development of the doctrine of the royal priesthood of the faithful, showing that it is based on the Bible, is strongly supported by the church fathers, and is prominent in the writings of theologians of the Middle Ages.
Living the Christian life means living the royal priesthood of the order of Melchizedek Melchizedek was the king of Salem, which later became Jerusalem, but was also a priest of God. Note the powerful parallel of the bread and wine, his blessing Abraham, the fact that Abraham paid him a visit after a victory in order to tithe the spoils or war.
Thomas J. Lane is a priest of the Diocese of Cloyne (Ireland) and is Assistant Professor of Sacred Scripture at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Maryland. He is the author of The Catholic Priesthood: Biblical Foundations. III. THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD. First Peter says, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for a possession, so that you may tell out the virtues of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.’’ The royal priesthood is typified by the priesthood according to the order of Melchisedec.
1 A Family of Royal Priests: Why the Priesthood of Believers Must Be “In Christ” David Schrock In his recent book on the priesthood, God’s Mediators: A Biblical Theology of the Priesthood,1 Andrew Malone argues the priesthood of believers is not derivative from Christ’s priesthood.
Readers will discover that it is not possible to disengage John Howard Yoder's practice of ecumenical dialogue from his vision of the church.
Yoder's approach to ecumenical dialogue correlates with his conception of the faithfulness of the church. His vision of the church poses challenges for Christians of all communions because he calls both for disciplined dialogue and for faithful 4/5(1).
Under the Old Covenant, the priesthood belonged to Aaron and his sons. Since believers, by faith, are part of Christ’s family line, they receive the ministry of the priesthood also. In the pages of this study, we will provide foundational truth concerning the royal priesthood of the believer.
Category: Religion. Philibert names this realized mystery the priesthood of the faithful, a life lived in union with the one high priest, Jesus Christ.
Chapter 4 shows how Christ's priesthood puts an end to the age-old system of ritual blood sacrifice. The baptismal priesthood is not about destruction and loss, but about love and life.
The Royal Priesthood of the Faithful. An Investigation of the Doctrine from Biblical Times to the Reformation. By Cyril Eastwood. The Epworth Press, London, Pp. 30s. - Volume 18 Issue 1 - John B. LoganAuthor: John B.
Logan. As we cultivate the mark of prayer, we will receive the blessings our Heavenly Father has for us. In conclusion, may we have vision. May we put forth effort.
May we exemplify faith and virtue and ever make prayer a part of our lives. Then we shall indeed be a royal priesthood. This would be my prayer, my personal prayer this evening, and I offer it from my heart in the name of Jesus.
Something was deeper and more significant about the sacrament that day. Those deacons who had become so perfunctory in their duties learned by example that passing the sacrament was a sacred trust and one of the greatest of honors.
1 They began to realize that the priesthood is, as the Apostle Peter called it, “a royal priesthood.” 2. The ministerial priesthood differs in essence from the common priesthood of the faithful because it confers a sacred power for the service of the faithful.
The ordained ministers exercise their service for the People of God by. In 1 Peterthe Bible teaches that the church is a “royal priesthood”. The background from this passage is a quote from Exodus where God gave the nation of Israel the same call: Exodus “and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words that you shall speak to the people of Israel.”.
Now we will look into the gift for the office of priesthood, and here we need to make a clarification. This general priesthood that exists in the faithful, the royal priesthood, in which every baptized Christian is a priest, cannot substitute for the liturgical priesthood.
It cannot replace the Sacrament of the Holy Priesthood. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
(I Peter —NIV) The Book of Isaiah has a lot to say about the Royal Priesthood. The Royal Priesthood is the Body of Christ. The Priesthood of the Faithful But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
Once you were no people but now you are God’s people. ~ 1 Peter B “The laity are able to offer their dailyFile Size: KB. Teach Essential Distinction Between Ministerial Priesthood And Royal Priesthood Of Baptized The Holy Father's Address on Septemto the fourth group of Brazilian Bishops to make their.
1 Peter But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people of his own, so that you may proclaim the virtues of the one who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. How do we interpret a Royal Priesthood?.
Its actually 1 Peter be yourselves built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices. are a new creation) to be 1) a people for His own possession, 2) a royal priesthood; that is, a kingdom of priests, and 3) a holy nation.
This is the same thing that God told Moses to tell the Israelites at Mt. Sinai. Therefore, we, under the administration of the New Covenant, have become a royal priesthood—a kingdom of priests and Size: KB. The royal priesthood of the faithful: an investigation of the doctrine from Biblical times to the Reformation.
[C Cyril Eastwood] Home. WorldCat Home About WorldCat Help. Search. Search for Library Items Search for Lists Search for Contacts Search for a Library.
Create. A Royal Priesthood. In the book of Exodus, chap the Lord said to Moses: “ ‘Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the children of Israel: You.
have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to File Size: KB. The royal priesthood of the faithful; an investigation of the doctrine from Biblical times to the Reformation. [C Cyril Eastwood] Home.
WorldCat Home About WorldCat Help. Search. Search for Library Items Search for Lists Search for Contacts Search for a Library. Create. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.
(I Peter ) (“Called; Chosen; and Faithful”, ). [The] the faithful, in virtue of their royal priesthood, join in the offering of the Eucharist. They likewise exercise that priesthood in receiving the sacraments, in prayer and thanksgiving, in the witness of a holy life, and by self-denial and active charity.
The universal priesthood or the priesthood of all believers is a principle in some branches of Christianity which abrogates the doctrine of holy orders found in some other branches, including the Roman Catholic and Eastern d from the Bible and elaborated in the theology of Martin Luther, William Tyndale, and John Calvin, the principle became prominent as a tenet.
Scripture declares that we are all “Royal Priests” in the calling of God we are a part of the Royal Priesthood. Therefore, the highest dignity of the priesthood, the right to minister the Word and the sacraments, belongs to every Christian, even if in practice, that right will normally be restricted to those to whom the church itself gives the office.
Paul J. PHILIBERT, The Priesthood of the Faithful: Key to a Living Church. Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press, Pp. $ pb. ISBN Reviewed by James DALLEN, Gonzaga University, Spokane, WA Philibert, professor of pastoral theology at Fribourg, presents a clear theology, a provocative vision, and a vibrant spirituality in a well-written book.
1 Peter But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light. Exodus (LXX): And ye shall be to me a royal priesthood and a holy nation: these words shalt thou speak to the children of Israel.
But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God's OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him In love He predestined us to.
In our home ward here in Salt Lake City, we have a good number of faithful, older members but few of Aaronic Priesthood age. Over the years I have watched these high priests and elders, men of faith and great accomplishments, humbly and .The block preventing priesthood from being manifested in your life; The authority and responsibility of priestly living; The ultimate way into the Holy Priesthood; As supplies last, we will also include a copy of Basilea Schlink's booklet, The Royal Priesthood, with every purchase of Martha Kilpatrick's The Royal Priesthood.
6 CD MESSAGE TITLES:Brand: Martha Kilpatrick/John Enslow. Our High Priest is faithful and pure, so we must emulate Him as His royal priesthood. The author of Hebrews, who was probably the apostle Paul, points out the characteristics required of us as a royal priesthood, under the High Priest, Jesus Christ, as we draw close to God.


I don’t know if I’ll take this phrase and run with it and turn it into something big, something effective for others, but oh man, this quote hit me like a ton of bricks when my dear friend, mentor and godly counselor shared this with me: “LESLIE, YOU WERE CREATED TO CREATE.” I can’t even pinpoint exactly what led us to this phrase in our conversation but it’s been ringing in my ear ever since. Sometimes I’m doubtful about what I’m doing. Am I on the right path? Am I exactly where God wants me to be and is what I’m doing effecting others around me in a good way.
I have to remember that I was created to create. I was given this opportunity by God himself. So I’ll run with it. Even when I have down weeks. Or even months! I have to remember this.
So today I’m just grateful for the people who remind me of this. The friends who encourage me, the connections in this world of design, and industry leaders like Michelle of Sage Wedding Pros who so graciously took me on as a brand specialist on her site–probably my high point of this past month. It just reminds me that everything is ok. I’m on the right track. If I’m doing it to the best of my ability, and using my creativity for others whether in a logo design or a conversation that will leaves a stamp on someone’s heart to ‘keep going!’…then I’m doing good – in every sense of that word.
Will chew on this the rest of the week, I’m sure.
And a big big thank you to Shandon Smith of Lifeprints Photography who took my recent head shots. Love you to pieces, Shandon!


For pure symbolism, however, it would be hard to top the Latin translation of both the Old and New Testaments commissioned by the Abbott Ceolfrith when he retired from the monastery of Wearmouth-Jarrow in northern England in 716. The Sackler has just a few leaves of one of these volumes. As a gift for the pope, Ceolfrith called for a huge, lavishly illuminated version, which took three people to lift. The message it was meant to send was that 'the farthest outpost of the empire is where it's at now; we can outdo Rome in craftsmanship, we can outdo Rome in scholarship'. That message, apparently, was received. Sometime in the 9th or 10th centuries, Ceolfrith's name was scratched out of the Bible sent to the pope. It was replaced with the name of an Italian saint, and the codex was assumed to be Italian until the 1880s.
Two images that show him. In the first, he is receiving messengers from Nechtan IV, King of the Picts. The second is a icon. The source doesn't explain its origin. In it, he's seen with a book, appropriate because of his acquisition of books and also because he commissioned the Codex Amiatinus, one of the most famous of all Bibles.
Butler's Lives of the Saints gives a full description of his life and accomplishments.
SAINT CEOLFRID, ABBOT.From Bede, Hist. 1,5, et 1. de Vitis Abbat. Wirim. Item, 1. de Tempo, ribus. See Leland de Scriptor. Bulteau, Hist. 1. 4. Pitseus, and Suysken, t. 7. Sept. p. 123.
A. D. 716.
CEOLFRID is the same Teutonic name with Geoffrey, and signifies Joyful, as Camden remarks. The saint was nobly born in Bernicia, and related to St. Bennet Bishop, with whom he joined in the generous resolution of quitting the world. With him he made a journey to Rome, partly out of devotion, and partly for improvement in sacred studies and divine knowledge. After their return he was St. Bennet's assistant in the foundation of his monastery of St. Peter at Wiremouth, on the north bank of the river, in the bishopric of Durham.
St.Ceolfrid would have regarded it as his greatest felicity on earth, if he could have been as much forgotten by all creatures, and contemned by every one as he contemned and studied to forget himself: and he lived in his community as St. Antony and St. Hilarion lived on their mountains, in the most profound recollection, and in the practice of the most austere penance. When St. Bennet built the monastery of St. Paul at Jarrow, he sent Ceolfrid, with seventeen monks, to lay the foundation of that house, and appointed him abbot. Our saint governed this abbey seven years in St. Bennet's life-time, and was constituted at the desire of that saint, in his last sickness, abbot also of Wiremouth: from which time he presided, for twenty-eight years, over both those monasteries, which for their propinquity and constant connexion were usually esteemed as one, and were generally subject to one abbot.
St. Ceolfrid was diligent and active in everything he took in hand, of a sharp wit, mature in judgment, and fervent in zeal. Bede, who had the happiness to live under this admirable man, has left us most authentic testimonies of his learning, abilities, and extraordinary sanctity. He was a great lover of sacred literature, and enriched the libraries of his two monasteries with a great number of good books; but banished those which could only serve to entertain curiosity. To how great a pitch he carried the sacred sciences in his monasteries, Bede is an instance. He was himself very learned. Naitan, king of the Picts, sent to him, desiring to be informed concerning the right time of celebrating Easter, and the true form of the clerical tonsure. The holy abbot strongly proved and recommended to him the Catholic custom of observing Easter and the Roman tonsure called St. Peters, by a letter which Bede hath inserted in his history.* The king received it with great joy and satisfaction, and commanded both points to be received and observed throughout his dominions. This king likewise desired our saint to send him builders, who might erect a stone church, after the manner of the Romans, promising to dedicate it in honour of St. Peter. The abbot complied also with this request.
St. Ceolfrid finding himself broken with age and infirmities, and no longer capable of teaching his monks, by word and example, the perfect form of monastic observance, resigned his abbacy. The monks entreated him on their knees to alter his resolution; but were, obliged to acquiesce, and, upon his recommendation, chose Hucthbert, or rather Hubert, a very learned priest, abbot of both monasteries, in which then lived six hundred monks. This being done, the saint having sung mass in the morning, made them a strong exhortation to mutual love and concord; and, for fear of being stopped by the grandees of the kingdom, who all held him in great veneration, set out immediately with a design to perform a pilgrimage to the tombs of the apostles at Rome. On the road, besides the canonical hours, he every day sung the whole psalter twice over, and also offered to God the saving victim in the mass which he sung every day, except one when he was upon the sea, and the three last days of his life. After travelling one hundred and fourteen days he arrived at Langres, in France, where, being stopped by sickness, he happily died on the 25th of September, in the year of our Lord 716, of his age seventy-four, of his sacerdotal character forty-seven, and his abbatial dignity thirty-five. He was buried in the church of the three twin martyrs, SS. Speusippus, Eleusippus, and Meleusippus. His relics were afterwards removed to his monastery of Jarrow, and thence, in the time of the Danish devastations, to Glastenbury.(l) Leland saw a square stone at Jarrow, on which was this inscription: (2) "The dedication of the church of St. Paul at Jarrow, (1) See App. ad Martyr. Gallic. Malmesb. de Reg. 1. 1, c. 3, et Monast. Angl. 1. 1, c. 4. ( 2) See Leland, de Scriptor. ed. a Tanner, p. 162.
=======================* L. 5, c. 22. St. Ceolfrid calls that tonsure St. Peter's, in which the crown was entire of the whole head: but that Simon Magus's, in which the circle was imperfect, and only on the fore part. See Mabillon, Praefat 2d Saec. 2. Bened.
From: The Lives of the Fathers, Martyrs, and Other Principal Saints by Alban Butler (Published 1866, J. Duffy)
Here's more on St. Geoffroy, given because he shows up in a poem about a picture and because the picture is available online.
One source say: "As bishop he did not cease to take care of the poor and the sick. When some lepers came to him he commanded his cook to prepare food for them; four hours later nothing had yet been done, and he himself went to the kitchen and found a large, prepared salmon which he took to the famished lepers. The cook remonstrated with him, and the Saint told him that it was injustice to allow the poor to die of hunger while unworthy bishops enjoyed food that was too succulent."
This is an extract from a poem about painting:
But sickness comes; and Painting shows
How holy men did cheer its woes.
Saint Godefroy, whom old Amiens knew
As tending sick men, comes to view;
Yon see him standing by their bed:
With these few touches all is said.


GOD saved me from myself. Thank you for deliverance. GOD delivered me when I thought there was no way out and the fire was flaming. God delivered me from abuse, sexual addiction and adulteress behavior. What GOD has for you is so much more rewarding when you place yourself available for him. BUT GOD! We live in a world of self-inflicted pain believing that the devil has more for us then GOD. Our GOD is a GOD of process something in you that GOD is hatching by the circumstances around you. Your victory is tied to your thought life. I am spiritually awakened and I am delivered. You are no different than I and no circumstance that you are in is to big for the king. God promises are true. Get in the posture to be delivered. I stand awakened as I BOLDLY WALK IN THE WILL OF GOD!
CONFESSIONS OF THE OTHER WOMAN will take you on a journey from a woman of self-inflicted pain from lust, lies, sexual addiction and adulteress behavior that almost destroyed her life, to a woman who was delivered and spirituality awakened. CONFESSIONS OF THE OTHER WOMAN delivers transparency to many who are scared to confront their demons and their addictive behavior.
What Clients Say
"Tiffany Davis is one of the most spiritual and inspirational people I know. She has been my biggest supporter through tough times and good times. She has brought me closer to God and has shown me the power of prayer. I truly believe God has called upon Tiffany to spread his word." ~Bree Sobecki


Each of the three parts below must be at least 150 words.
1. After reading the article “What is a Disciple” and personally studying and examining the passages in the Bible where Jesus described what it means to follow Him, summarize what it means to follow Christ (i.e., be a disciple). The summary must be modeled after the 3-word approach (Sacrificial, Relational, and Transformational) given near the end of the article; however, DO NOT copy those three words. Provide 3 bolded words that flow from a personal study of the Scripture, which communicate the characteristics of a disciple. These three broad words should essentially cover the idea of what is means to be a disciple. After each bold word, provide a description of how that words captures an aspect of what is means to be a disciple of Jesus is. Begin each description with, “From the Scriptures, a follower of Jesus is someone who…”
2. After reading the article “What is Discipleship” and examining the passages that summarize how to develop followers of Jesus, summarize the process for developing followers of Jesus. The summary will be modeled after the 3-word approach (Intentional, Individual, and Missional) given in the article; however, DO NOT copy those three words. Provide 3 bolded words that flow from a personal study of the Scripture, which communicate the core elements of discipleship. After each bold word, provide a description of how that words captures the process of discipleship. Keep in mind that the article mentioned above is describing the person, and this second article is describing the process. Begin the description with, “The process of developing followers of Jesus involves…”
3. From the article “Growth Group,” explain how you could potentially meet with a few people in your ministry context and help them connect to Christ, connect to one another, and connect to His mission. Be specific, measurable, and practical in this explanation.
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As people of God, we joyfully worship God, spread the Word of God’s love, treasure all people, and serve others everywhere in the name of Jesus Christ.
A Budget with Vision
At our congregational Annual Meeting on January 10, we presented the Vision Budget showing where your support goes towards the many life-giving, life-changing activities here at St. Timothy’s. Read it here
New Year Bible StudiesA seven-week course about the Book of Genesis will be offered Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. beginning January 3. Tuesday nights at 7:30 we will hold a Bible study on I Corinthians beginning January 5. Contact the church office for more information – all are welcome!
Do your kids love to sing? We have a new Director of Music and a children’s choir that meets on Sundays at 11:30 am. We are also seeking handbell ringers! No experience necessary, rehearsals are Wednesdays from 7-8:15 pm.


Published April 30, 2004
by First Century Ltd .
Written in English
|The Physical Object|
|Number of Pages||192|
Oct 21, · But for the grace of God: Milledgeville: [the inside story of the world's largest insane asylum] [Peter Gordon Cranford] on judybwolfman.com *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. But for the grace of God: Milldgeville: [the inside story of the world's largest insane asylum] Peter Cranford. Reprinting /5(6). Sep 12, · This concept never came as alive to me, however, as it did while reading Andy Stanley's book, The Grace of God. Stanley's book takes the reader into God's story of grace in His book, The Bible, highlighting the narrative of grace that runs throughout the Old and New Testament/5. This simple, yet powerful booklet is a result of months of practice and hard work and has inspired millions. Original photography by Joel. " x " 16 pages. A Photographic Journey Through Liberia | Check out 'By d Grace of God' on Indiegogo. A Photographic Journey Through Liberia. A Photographic Journey Through Liberia.
Jun 25, · In Christianity, God's grace and God's mercy are often confused. Although they are similar expressions of his favor and love, they possess a clear distinction. When we experience God's grace, we receive favor that we do not deserve. When we experience God's mercy, we . Feb 11, · Provided to YouTube by Entertainment One Distribution US God's Grace · Rev. Luther Barnes & The Restoration Worship Center Choir The Favor Of God ℗ . Jan 23, · “Grace” is the most important concept in the Bible, Christianity, and the world. Grace is the love of God shown to the unlovely; the peace of God given to the restless; the unmerited favor of God. It is most clearly expressed in the promises of God revealed in Scripture and embodied in Jesus Christ. Jan 02, · Question: "What is the grace of God?" Answer: Grace is a constant theme in the Bible, and it culminates in the New Testament with the coming of Jesus (John ). The word translated "grace" in the New Testament comes from the Greek word charis, which means “favor, blessing, or kindness.”We can all extend grace to others; but when the word grace is used in connection with God, .
Nobody deserves the sin-free life and glorious future that God offersbut remarkably, it's ours for the taking because of God's grace! Join Pastor Stanley as he warns against the pitfalls of legalism and explores the transforming power of God's unmerited favor, lavish love, and kindness. Then come to terms with your own 'grace story'! The Grace of God () by Andy Stanley/5(60). Sep 28, · The main point of the book is that the grace of God is freely given, with absolutely no Well, technically, he ends with his own church in Atlanta, but more on that in a bit. Most of the focus of the book is on the grace of God in the Old Testament (the first eight chapters deal with Old Testament events and characters, while the last five deal /5. God-centered books from the ministry of John Piper. God-centered books from the ministry of John Piper. Articles Sermons Topics Books Podcasts Features About Donate. Ask Pastor John. Questions and answers with John Piper. Look at the Book. Interactive Bible study with John Piper The Legacy of Sovereign Joy God’s Triumphant Grace in the. Jan 17, · Job shows God’s grace in vindicating the sufferer’s cry that his redeemer lives (), who will put all things right in this world or the next. Psalms shows God’s grace by reminding us of, and leading us in expressing, the hesed (relentless covenant .


Wow, it's been for-evah since I have written a blog post. I bet no one even reads this thing anymore. Which is really not a big difference from before, when I think about it. ;-)
Today at church we talked about the Scripture from Romans 15:7 that says "Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." I now have that memorized because we sang a song on Praise Team this morning which came from that Scripture. The song is really cool, but more importantly, this Scripture is amazing. I mean, it's one sentence, but in that one sentence there is so much that you can take away from it.
A lot of times, I bet we would all say we do a pretty good job at accepting others. We may have diverse groups of friends, and maybe even we've befriended that one person that no one else will seem to befriend. But wait--did we label that person in our minds as "That-Person-No-One-Else-Will-Befriend?" God doesn't label us that way. He calls us things like "My Son" or "My Daughter" or "Beloved." So when we label did we accept others as we were accepted?
When I think of how much love (real Love like 1 Cor 13 Love) it takes to accept someone the same way Christ accepted, I know that I am falling way short of that goal. I need accept people and love them completely, even when they've annoyed me, hurt me, betrayed me, slandered me, let me down, hurt someone else I love, etc.
What's more is that when we do this accepting others thing, we're bringing praise to God. When I welcome someone into my life and receive them in Love, God is glorified, because the bottom line is I could never do that on my own. All the glory is due to Him.
I pray for opportunities this week, for myself and the rest of the Body of Christ, to bring praise to God in this way, and I pray that I would be able to know when I'm not really accepting someone the way Christ accepted me. He's forgiven me much, and shown mercy and grace beyond understanding. High standard right there.
Oh Shannon, dear, I am pretty sure you will actually read this blog at some point, and just cause I've been giving you a hard time about it, I want to know when you do read it. Like exact date and time. ;-) or should I say (type?) ;p


New Vision Workshops
September 14th, 2018 (Fri.)
Trinity Lutheran Church
Peter Steinke’s New Book Workshop
Registrants receive copies of both new books and the DVD that accompany TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
9:00 – 11:30 TEACHING FISH TO WALK : Church Systems and Adaptive
11:30 – 1:00 Lunch (bring your own)
1:00 – 3:00 TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE
$60 for both sessions Pay online here
$35 per session Pay online here
October 12th, 2018 (Fri.) 9am – 3pm
King of Glory Lutheran Church
6411 LBJ Fwy, Dallas, TX
Teaching Fish To Walk led by Jon Lee and Pete Steinke
Come and join two Veteran Church Leaders with fresh ideas in this exciting workshop and explore the future church. There will be no elephants in the room. Wide open presentations and discussion about Christianity’s challenges in the North American context.
Early Registration $40 per person (Sept 28th deadline)
Registration $50 or $45 for two or more from the same congregation
Payments made to New Visions Workshop
The Rev. John Lee served as a Senior Pastor of King of Glory and is past president of the
Dallas Clergy Association. The Rev. Dr. Pete Steinke is an internationally respected church consultant and author.


Easter Food & Fun
04.04.22 - 15.04.22
Voluntary Action Angus provided Easter activities across two weeks in Arbroath, Brechin, Carnoustie, Forfar, Kirriemuir, Monifieth and Montrose.
Video on the right: The Easter Bunny visited The Cross and decorated for our activities on Friday 8th April!
Photo gallery below: All the photos from our activities. Click an image to enlarge it!


Whatever Is Pure
Whatever Is Pure.org is committed to contending earnestly for the faith (Jude 1:3). We provide carefully-written critiques of current movements in the Christian church that contradict the Scriptures.
Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. (Philipians 4:8, NASB)
- Renovaré Teachings and Practices that Contradict Scripture, 2nd Edition, September 2012.
- Renovaré Teachings that Contradict the Statement of Faith of the Evangelical Free Church of America.
- Quotes from Brennan Manning. A collection of problematic statements from Brennan Manning.


Four nuns from the Missionaries of Jesus congregation who supported a fellow nun who accused a bishop of rape last year have been asked by church authorities to leave the convent in Kerala and return to the vocations they were previously assigned to, according to letters they received from the congregation.
However, the nuns named Alphy Pallasseril, Anupama Kelamangalathuveliyil, Josephine Villoonnickal and Ancitta Urumbil have refused to vacate the convent in Kuravilangad, Kottayam and alleged that the transfer order is the latest in a series of attempts to weaken the case against former bishop Franco Mullakkal of the Jalandhar diocese.
“Though we are leading a secluded life in the convent, we don’t have any plan to move out. It is a plan aimed at isolating us and weakening the case. Convent authorities have made our lives miserable but we will not dump our fellow nun and will go ahead with the case,” said Anupma, adding that three other nuns had received similar letters.
“There were many attempts to smoke us out. The latest is one of them. But we will remain in the convent and take the case to its logical end”, she added.
Last June, a 43-year-old Mother Superior complained to the police that Mullakkal raped her 13 times between 2014 and 2016. In the weeks that followed, the five nuns staged a sit-in protest in Kochi seeking the bishop’s arrest. A special investigation team finally apprehended him in September after several rounds of questioning. He was granted bail after three weeks in judicial custody. The trial is yet to start. Last week the government appointed a special prosecutor after the nuns threatened to resume protests.
Anupama has been asked to relocate to Chamiyari community in Punjab, where she was transferred in March. Ancitta meanwhile has been asked to go back to the Pariyaram community in Kannur, where she was shifted in May. Alphy has been asked to rejoin the community in Bihar’s Pakartala, while Josephine has been accused of abandoning the community, in Jharkhand’s Lalmatia and ordered to go back there.
COURTESY :- NEWS BHARATI


Cornerstone Chapel 5205 Portage St NW, North Canton, OH44720 Cornerstone Chapel is an evangelical charismatic church in North Canton. It features ministries for men, women and…More children, as well as faith-based education and service programs.
Myers Driving School 7877 Cleveland Ave NW, North Canton, OH44720 Myers Driving School is located on Cleveland Avenue NW near Orion Road NE. It is conveniently located near I-77. This…More full-service drivers education school offers various classes, including Student Driver Training Classes, Adult Remedial Classes (2 point credit/reduction), Juvenile Driving Improvement Program, One-on-One Driving Instruction and the Driver Car Control Clinic. A full schedule of classes and times can be found on the school's website. Discounts and specials are also available.
John Knox Presbyterian Church 5155 Eastlake St NW, North Canton, OH44720 The John Knox Presbyterian Church is located at 5155 Eastlake Streeet Northwest in North Canton. The church strives to…More create a caring and accepting community of faith, rooted in God's love, made known in Jesus Christ. Members of The John Knox Presbyterian Church focus on worship, education, fellowship and mission work. The church welcomes visitors, and holds Bible study for men on Tuesday at 6:30am and for women on Tuesday at 9:45am. Sunday School is also offered for children at 10am on the day of worship.


Click here to fill out the church census form.
You can also text “EFCB” to 484848 to receive a link to the form on your phone.
Looking for more? To see more events, activities, classes or groups, please go to Events & Announcements or click on a specific ministry listed at the top of this page (mobile users - click the three stacked lines at the top of this page to see your drop-down menu).
E-Free Church of Bozeman
1701 South 19th Ave
Bozeman, MT 59718
Worship Service Times:
8:15 | 9:45 | 11:15 AM


The Environmentalist's Bible
Contributed by Amanda Greene - Posted: September 15, 2008 12:00:00 AM
The Humane Society of the United States says a new release from HarperOne, The Green Bible, will offer readers a revelation, not just about caring for the Earth, but about caring for animals.
The Green Bible highlights in green, soy-based ink, more than 1,000 references, verses and passages related to the Earth. The Book also contains essays contributed by Brian McLaren, Matthew Sleeth, N.T. Wright, Desmond Tutu and others, and includes a detailed index and personal study guide.
The HSUS, through its All Creatures Great and Small campaign, provides ways for people to practice stewardship on behalf of animals and the environment. Read More
The anti-animal agriculture groups have been trying to work their way into using religious groups to push their agenda. The Green Bible is their latest attempt to pit religion against agriculture. Doesn’t it seem strange that HSUS is interpreting the bible for our religious leaders and they seem to be buying it? The bible tells us to eat all manner of four legged beasts and the fowl in the air because if God made it, it is good. I doubt that will be the message that HSUS will be putting in their “bible”.


Today, let us pray together and offer each other signs of love and comfort. The unknown can feel so scary, but we don’t need to fear it. We can always stay faithful knowing that God has a purpose and plan for all. Know and trust that a plan does exist. That it’s not hopeless. There are already new storylines being written and they are very beautiful. Be ever vigilant to keep your mind clear from fear and distraction. Clear your mind, and you start to see a bigger picture of what is going on. For those of you who have been working too hard, I hope you take some time with your loved ones to slow down. Take some time to go outside and get fresh air—to see the sun shine down upon you.
There are so many more amazing moments to come. Keep praying. Pray for each other. Pray for the world. I am with you always.


Some couples are opting for poetry readings, instead of a reading(s) from the scriptures. This could be for a variety of reasons, the most obvious being that they have no particular affiliation to a church, or are not practicing churchgoers.
Here is a love poem that my husband and I had read during our wedding ceremony.
We chose our bridesmaid’s partner (now husband) to read the poem. As we had a small intimate wedding, it was important to us for everyone to have a role to play and participate in some way.
Perhaps Love is like a resting placeA shelter from the storm,It exists to give you comfortIt’s there to keep your warm,And in those times of troubleWhen you are most aloneThe memory of Love will bring you home.
Perhaps Love is like a windowPerhaps an open door,It invites you to come closerIt wants to show you more,And even if you lose yourselfAnd don’t know what to doThe memory of Love will see you through
Perhaps Love is like the oceanFull of conflict full of change,Like firelight when it’s cold outsideLike thunder when it rainsIf I should like forever,And all my dreams come trueMy memories of Love will be of you.


Allens Creek Baptist Church A fellowship that is
LOVING GOD AND LOVING EACH OTHER
Worship, Fellowship, Ministry, Missions, Evangelism, Discipleship
"CHUCK WAGON GANG" in concert Sunday
March 29th at 7:00 p.m.
EASTER MUSICAL "YOUR GRACE STILL AMAZES
ME" presented by Allens Creek Sanctuary Choir
EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 5TH at 10:45 a.m.
REVIVAL with Darrin Walthrop beginning Sunday
April 19th at 6pm - UNTIL...... Week nights at 7:00pm


Every Christmas season I remember as a kid included family devotions each night around the dinning room table. They revolved around a felt Christmas tree and a devotional book that is now out of print. The simplicity of each lesson must have hit home for me as a kid, because the Bible verses we memorized are still engraved in my mind. We LOVED taking turns selecting the corresponding ornament each night and placing it on the tree. A friend of mine reminded me of this book, just the other day, when she said my dad had recommended it to her. Sadly, the book is out of print, but can still be purchased used on Amazon. Buy it here: Family Celebrations: Meeting Christ in Your Holidays and Special Occasions
*Update! I just discovered an updated version of Ann Hibbards book which can be found here: Celebrating Advent: Devotions and Activities for the Christmas Season This new book includes 2 full seasons of devotions, as well as added discussion questions and further study of older children and adults. Looks good to me!
The original book includes family activities and devotionals for many holidays throughout the year. I spent some time adapting the material they provide for Christmas devotions, and condensed it into one file that includes everything you’ll need to start your own advent tradition.
Download my FREE adaptation of the nightly devotional
of the ornaments that correspond with each night’s theme,
as well as a template for the felt Christmas tree.


The Old Testament reading from this week’s Lectionary comes from the prophet Zephaniah. Zephaniah’s prophetic ministry was in the southern kingdom of Judah from approximately 640 - 621 BC. He ministered during the reign of King Josiah, who was the last good and godly king of Judah. Zephaniah was probably a spiritual influence on Josiah, as this good king brought a degree of religious reform and revival in the country. The last years of Zephaniah’s life saw the beginning of the prophetic ministry of the great prophet Jeremiah. Let’s look at what our passage has to say.
God instructs the people of Judah to be quiet before Him because judgment is coming (vs. 7). He won’t listen to their pleas or complaints any longer. God wants sincere repentance, but the people won’t listen or obey, so now He calls for silence in view of His just judgment. Within approximately 40+ years the Kingdom of Judah would fall, and the people would go into captivity. We need to be quiet, as well, and listen to and for God’s voice through His Word. When He speaks in instruction do we listen and obey, or are we like spoiled and disobedient children, who provoke the Lord to call us out, demanding our silence?
In verse 12 and following, we read that the Lord says He is searching Jerusalem with a lamp. What was He looking for? He was searching out the people’s hearts. He would search the people and punish those deserving punishment. In these years prior to the overthrow of the kingdom by the Babylonians the people had grown complacent in their sins, worship of false gods in addition to Yahweh, and wicked lifestyles. Complacency is wrong. We may think that God is inactive, and that He doesn’t see either the good or wrong we do. He does see, and He will hold off His judgment for only so long.
Zephaniah preached that since the people wouldn’t search their own hearts, and were content to live with their sins, God would do a search and bring judgment. Though many people are indifferent to their sins, God is not indifferent to them. We need to be obedient now. We never know how long we have. No one can escape God’s judgment, and there is no place to hide. Though the people took no notice of the prophet’s message, he continued to tell them that the Day of the Lord is near!
God’s final judgment will just as surely happen, as surely as His judgment fell on Judah with the Babylonian captivity happened, just as the prophets foretold. God warns the people through His prophet, that in His coming judgment, all of their money will be useless to help them (vs. 18). That warning is just as applicable today. No amount of money, no amount of political power or influence, no prestigious social standing, either, will help us out when God’s judgment will fall. The only thing that can help us then is the Blood of Jesus. The people in Zephaniah’s day were indifferent to the Lord God, but thankfully He isn’t indifferent to us. He loves us and sent His Son to die for us. Jesus’s Blood purchased our salvation. By trusting in His death on the cross for our sins, trusting in Him alone, we will be spared God’s wrath. Trust in Him, not in money or any other person.


“For I would have you know, brethren,
that the gospel which was preached by me is not man’s gospel.
For I did not receive it from man, nor was I taught it,
but it came through a revelation of Jesus Christ.”
WHY DEFINE DREAMS AS CHRISTIAN?
It is generally accepted within Christianity that the Christ is the divine spiritual being who is responsible for the spiritual development of all humanity. We understand that He guides us as we strive to return to the Father. This process is one of perfecting human consciousness and this perfection comes to us via the light and love of Jesus Christ. “I am the light of the world; he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” This quote from John 8:12, states this idea as clearly as is possible and no further elaboration is needed. Now, the light and love of the Christ shines upon all of humanity all of the time, but it is during sleep that we are able to apprehend His presence most clearly, for this is when human consciousness is most receptive to the spiritual realms.
The Christ is “the light [that] shines into the darkness . . . ” and He is “. . . the true light that enlightens every man . . . .” (John 1:5, 9) His is the very light that illuminates sleeping dreams. In this context, the apostle Paul encourages us when he says, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light”. (Ephesians 5:14) This is a clarion call for the modern Christian to awaken from the darkness of unconsciousness and a deep hypnotic sleep, and begin to recognize the immanent presence of the light and love of the Lord.


Mountains, grand in size, bring to mind an intimidating wilderness. They represent the unknown, the seemingly unconquerable venture. But when equipped with the right tools, mountain climbers can persevere to the top of the highest peaks.
We all have “mountains” in our lives. We need only the right tool ~ faith in our Heavenly Father ~ and our mountains can be moved, demolished, cast into the sea. ~ Matthew 17:20
A favorite song that gave me hope in a hopeless situation inspired this design. I hope your heart sings with hope when you wear this SHINE!


I received my BFA in Creative Writing at Southwest Minnesota State University in 1996. A few months later I married my husband. I gave up writing for about ten years to start a family. In 2004 at the prompting of a friend, I started a Mom's group at church. Discontented with the Bible studies available, I wrote my own. I've been writing and teaching Bible studies ever since.
In addition to authoring two books and writing a devotional blog, I also enjoy teaching seminars to women with the intention of bringing the Bible to life in tangible, applicable ways.
I'm most thankful for my house full of blessings: my husband, four children, white dog and black cat.


NASHVILLE — Author, speaker and musician Kelly Minter wants to propose a radical idea to women when she’s in Fargo next month: suffering doesn’t have to be meaningless.
“So many women I know are going through hardship, and often we can’t make sense of it,” she said through email. “Would a loving God really allow pain in our lives?”
Minter said part of the answer can be found in the life of Joseph, son of Jacob from the Old Testament. “What we learn from Joseph’s life is that God was doing a deeper work in and through the pain and unjust circumstances of his life,” she explained. “While Joseph’s brothers meant to harm him, God meant it for good.”
She said she’s excited to “unfold this message at Cultivate in North Dakota, because we’re going to learn how to suffer well, prosper well and love well. And we’re going to see how Joseph’s life points us to Jesus.”
Minter not only speaks to her audiences, but through her and her team’s gifts, uses music to reach their souls.
Bethany Bordeaux, Minter’s assistant and violinist, said the musical element makes the Cultivate events particularly powerful. “We’ve got a band of four,” she said. “Kelly teaches, but also jumps in and does music with us as well.”
Bordeaux admitted music can be “a tricky thing in the church,” because there are so many styles and preferences. “We both grew up on hymns and we love them, so we wanted to include that in our event, but there’s also a lot of merit to songs being written now, so we thought, ‘Let’s do both. There’s no reason we have to pigeonhole our musical experience.’ ”
While designing Cultivate, Bordeaux said, Minter felt the gatherings shouldn’t be “just getting up and giving a cheerleading session.” “It’s important to encourage one another, but at the end of the day, Scripture is the inspired Word of God, and we wanted to make sure (Minter) could encourage women through the vehicle of teaching Scripture.”
They also wanted prayer to be very intentionally placed within, she said, noting they consistently hear from women who name the prayer portion as their favorite part of the weekend; some say it was life-changing.
Cultivate connects its message with its global nonprofit missions’ partner, Justice and Mercy International, she added, which “works a lot with orphans and vulnerable children” in more obscure corners of the world, like the Amazon jungle in Brazil and the Ukraine.
It also invites local organizers to highlight a local nonprofit. The Fargo event will shed light on Voice for the Captives, a group that educates on human and sex trafficking in our area.
Lisa Hanson, part of the local Women’s Ministries Network hosting the event, and founder of Voice for the Captives, said there’s currently a spike in trafficking here due to the Big Iron Farm Show, which attracts this kind of activity.
“The awareness of this is critical,” Hanson said. “I want the community to know I’m here fighting this and I can’t do this without their help.”
Kathy Spriggs, co-director, said she’s excited “to bring a speaker who has a heart for God’s women.”
“We’ve done several of her Bible studies in the jail (for women), and they love her. Her worship style is phenomenal, along with her music, writing and singing,” she said.
Judy Siegle, co-director, added that Minter is “a solid, passionate, down-to-earth gal who speaks messages that are relevant to your life.”
Bordeaux said the Cultivate team is “ready to love all the women we come into contact with; from the one who just got a new job and everything is cracking for her, to the one with five kids whose husband just left her and everyone in between … Everyone who comes through the doors has a story.”
[For the sake of having a repository for my newspaper columns and articles, I reprint them here, with permission, a week after their run date. The preceding ran in The Forum newspaper on Sept. 23, 2017.]


On Friday morning, Pope Francis released an extensive document titled “Amoris Laetitia,” or “The Joy of Love” in Latin, which was celebrated for its inclusivity and understanding toward divorced couples, gays, and couples living together before marriage.
While many criticized Pope Francis for his continued opposition toward gay marriage, “Amoris Laetitia” made more headlines for its groundbreaking signal that may allow divorced and remarried Catholics to receive communion again. In the past, those who had divorced, regardless of the circumstances, were considered ex-communicated from the church. Beyond Pope Francis’s new position on divorced members of the church, the document was chock-full of sensible words of advice on relationships and marriage. Below, we highlight the most inspiring relationship advice from “The Joy of Love.”
Always keep your eyes open in a relationship.
“A look of appreciation has enormous importance, and to begrudge it is usually hurtful. How many things do spouses and children sometimes do in order to be noticed! Much hurt and many problems result when we stop looking at one another,” he wrote. “Love opens our eyes and enables us to see, beyond all else, the great worth of a human being.”
Don’t be so quick to swipe left.
“I think, for example, of the speed with which people move from one affective relationship to another. They believe, along the lines of social networks, that love can be connected or disconnected at the whim of the consumer, and the relationship quickly ‘blocked,’ ” he wrote. “We treat affective relationships the way we treat material objects and the environment: Everything is disposable; everyone uses and throws away, takes and breaks, exploits and squeezes to the last drop. Then, goodbye. Narcissism makes people incapable of looking beyond themselves, beyond their own desires and needs. Yet sooner or later, those who use others end up being used themselves, manipulated and discarded by that same mind-set.”
Being polite makes a huge difference.
“In the family, three words need to be used. I want to repeat this! Three words: ‘Please,’ ‘Thank you,’ ‘Sorry.’ Three essential words!” he wrote. “Let us not be stingy about using these words, but keep repeating them, day after day. For ‘certain silences are oppressive, even at times within families, between husbands and wives, between parents and children, among siblings.’ The right words, spoken at the right time, daily protect and nurture love.”


Calvin Cleveland Davis 10/21/1958 – 10/23/2023 Calvin, at 65 years old went home peacefully into the arms of Jesus in the early morning hours of Monday, October, 23, 2023. He has won the victory over his tired and worn out body. Calvin began working as a heavy equipment diesel mechanic at the age of 15. He owned and operated Davis Diesel Repair for over 25 years until his retirement due to health issues. He was known as “the best in the business” by many in the heavy equipment industry. Calvin was a faithful and dedicated member of Chestnut Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Ararat, VA as long as his health permitted. He was passionate about the loving and saving grace of his Lord Jesus Christ. He made sure to tell everyone about his salvation and his great God. He wanted everyone to know it’s not “good bye” it’s “see ya later” until we meet again! Calvin was born in Surry County to the late Grover and Peggy (Ratcliff) Davis. He was also preceded in death by two nephews, Kenneth David Davis, Jr. and Anthony Danny Vaughn, Sr. He is survived by his partner of 27 years, Tina Lyons Smith of the home in Ararat, VA, one son, Jeremiah Steven (Patrick) Davis of Highpoint, NC, two sisters, Sandra Davis and Trena (David) Schumaker both of Mount Airy, NC, four brothers, Kenneth Davis, Sr. of Morganton, NC, Ricky (Ginger) Davis, Michael (Terri) Davis and Jeff Davis all of Mount Airy, NC, numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews. Calvin is also survived by a bonus son, Nakoma (Wendy) Smith of Dobson, NC and three bonus sister-in-law’s, April Lyons (Brent) Johnson of Pilot Mountain, NC, Debra Lyons (Morten) Kristensen and Sandra Lyons both of Lambsburg, VA and two bonus granddaughters, Lainey Smith and Natalie Smith of Dobson, NC. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Northern Regional Hospital, his pastor Rev. Arlis Thomas and a special friend Morten Kristensen for the love, care and support shown to Calvin. There will be no formal visitation but there will be a celebration of life for Calvin at a later date. Moody Funeral Services of Mount Airy is servicing the family.
Online condolences may be made at www.moodyfuneralservices.com.


NEW FROM SWEET PROMISE PRESS: BOOK 11 IN MELISSA STORM'S FIRST STREET CHURCH SERIES OF SWEET ROMANCES
It takes more than a child to make a family.
After five years of heartbreaking fertility treatment and loss, Laura Cleary can't bear to leave her husband Dixon childless. Abandoning her marriage vow, Laura moves out, hoping Dixon will start again.
Dixon Cleary’s commitment to his wife and faith runs deeper than the roots that reside under the family ranch in Sweet Grove, Texas. Heartbroken from a loss that took not only his chance for fatherhood, but the love of his life, he’s willing to lose the ranch if it means bringing Laura home.
When fate intervenes, Laura and Dixon are left to honour their vows to their friends and God and take a baby into their home. But there's a long road ahead to go from having a child to becoming a family once more.


Periballó (pronounced per-ee-bal′-lo) as a brand comes from the Greek meaning of “clothed”.
According to Revelation 3:4-5, 4″ You have a few names even in Sardis who have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white, for they are worthy. 5 He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels.”
These verses are sharing that those that have overcome (in Jesus’ name) and are worthy will be clothed in white garments and their names will be found in the Book of Life. Jesus will confess our names before The Father and before His angels. In other words, we will be found worthy due to being clothed in Jesus’s grace, acceptance, and redeeming salvation and will be able to be presented before God without blemish.
This company was founded (by a mother and daughter team that believe God placed this idea in their hearts) on the idea that if we are clothed in His acceptance we can be arrayed (clothed, wrapped, covered in, put on, dressed) in Jesus’s grace. With that peace and grace that only He offers, we can physically defend out thoughts and actions by knowing that He protects us and helps us always.
A bit of backstory for you.
Ana and I were sitting in Sunday morning service and our pastor, Dr. Randy Locke, was talking about the seven church in Revelation. Partially the church of Sardis. Pastor Randy was talking about the church and how those that were chosen as worthy would be “clothed in white garments” and then he mentioned the word, periballó. he went on to explain the meaning of the word. Extremely interesting, but he often shared about Greek words in his teachings to the congregation.
One of the things that we love about Pastor Randy though is that he is the pastor that tends to use visual aids in his services. And during this service that his exactly what he did. He went on to talk about how we are often “fired upon” with the fiery darts from the devil and that when we are “clothed in the Word and Jesus” we don’t have to worry about those fiery darts. He proceeded to pull out a beauteous white sheet and “clothe” or “wrap” himself in this white sheet. Signifying that we too can be clothed in white garments and found worthy.
He walked around “shielding” himself with the fiery darts from the devil, yet his head was still exposed. As he went on to talk, I leaned over to Ana and whispered, “he’s going to pull that sheet up over his head so his eyes, ears, and mind can also be protected.” Within less then a minute Pastor Randy continued to talk and slowly worked the sheet up over his head so that he was completely covered with the sheet. He said, “now I can fend off the fiery darts at all times, because everything is protected and covered.”
That is when Ana leaned over to me and whispered, “like the teens in our church do with our hoodies”, and she mimicked pulling the hood up over her head and pulling the strings tight. And in that moment the idea was in my head. I could see the back of a white hooded sweatshirt with the words in bold royal purple. PERIBALLÓ clothed. I immediately leaned back over, excited and told her, “we can do this.”
After weeks of preparation, prayer with Pastor Randy and sharing with our church family, we are officially ready to share with you. This is a mission to share with the world, that you too can be Clothed in His Acceptance.
We wear all sorts of labels on our clothing, shoes, shirts, hats, etc . . . why not wear a label that truly matters? Why not share with the world that you are PERIBALLÓ?
Because, I’m sure you have you felt that when you withdraw into your hoodie that you are able to block out the world? With His loving acceptance of us, and His redeeming grace, that is exactly how we can block out the crazy thoughts and ideas that bombard us at every turn in this sinful fallen world. Jesus offers the same peace and acceptance to you even today.
As you wrap yourself in your new hoodie or tee shirt, you are signifying that you are literally are periballó (clothed) and that you too are Clothed in His Acceptance.
If you would like to learn more about the peace that Jesus offers, we would love to share with you. Email us at LearnMore@HelloPeriballo.com.
Until He returns we will share with the world that Jesus came to save us from the sin of the world. We can come to Him as we are and His love, grace, and redeeming salvation will make us clean as snow and we too can be clothed in white garments with our names found in the Book of Life.
The Periballó Team


Night of Joy
Each fall, Night of Joy brings spirited and soulful entertainment to Magic Kingdom theme park. During this contemporary Christian music festival, Guests can delight in live performances by music superstars across a variety of genres—including rock, pop and gospel.
Mark your calendars for a weekend of outstanding entertainment on September 7, 2012 and September 8, 2012. Enjoy performances from a variety of Christian artists, including:Performing Friday, September 7, 2012:
Performing Saturday, September 8, 2012:
Thousand Foot Krutch
From soulful, inspiring singers to hard-hitting, high-energy rockers, Night of Joy offers a variety of entertainment that's sure to lift your spirits.


What is a mentor?
Mentors are trusted individuals who provide compassionate guidance and develop meaningful relationships with A New Beginning participants.
Responsibilities of a Mentor
- Participate in mentor orientation and training as required
- Follow all guidelines set forth by program and organization
- Commit to meet with the participant for 1 hour per week for at least 6 months
- Be willing to accompany client to Celebrate Recovery/NA/AA until they are comfortable going without you
- Commit to work with participant for up to 6 months after completing the program
- Provide written updates to Director
In addition, we ask that Mentors
- Be willing to mentor to those not wishing to hear about God, but doing so in a way that shows His love
- Conduct weekly discipleship training and teaching of Biblical values and morals
- Encourage clients to attend church and become a Christian
*A New Beginning is not a faith-based program and does not require participants to take part in religious activities. However, A New Beginning Founder and directors believe the love of Jesus and hope offered through faith in Him is a key success factor in participants’ life change. A weekly Bible service is offered at BMT Manufacturing, and mentors will further discuss faith if the participant wishes. Participants are not required or pressured to attend the service or engage in faith conversations, but those who have typically see greater success in the program.