What follows is an attempt to compile a list of terms to enhance your understanding of the lessons. The list will grow as I add new posts to my blog.
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the memory of God. The Holy Spirit is the Voice for God. The Holy Spirit knows everything. It’s outside of time and space, yet able to communicate with us.Think of The Holy Spirit as the most advanced GPS ever built. It knows all, always present and perfectly accurate. With a map of the entire earth pre-loaded, it knows exactly where you are and never ever loses the signal from God. The Holy Spirit tells you what you need to do to get from wherever you are to the final destination – in the most optimal way. The Holy Spirit gives guidance and help but not of this physical world. For example, The Holy Spirit does not manifest a parking place for you, but may inspire you, where one might be found.
The Fullness of God
We appear to be separate individuals walking a personal path; however, in truth, we are all the same. We were created in The Fullness of God, and beneath the ego layers of illusion; we are all holographic images of God.
Forgiveness requires a neutral and unbiased witness to your state of mind. This witness is also known as The Observer. The Observer is able to stand-back from the chatter of the ego mind, observe each thought as it crosses, make the life-changing decision to accept responsibility for the thought, and forgive.
An Experience is required as proof ‘My world does not exist!’ otherwise, the beautiful words with their reasonable meanings would lay empty and forgotten. An Experience is a glimpse of God when the undoing of the ego thought system has been successful and the truth is allowed a clear pathway to the surface of your mind. It is in that moment of clarity when you will Experience what is real: ‘I am not a body. I am free. For I am still as God created me.’ A Course in Miracles
The ‘AHA’ Moment
The ‘AHA’ Moment is a recognition of Spirit. A connection to what is already known but buried deep by our ego perceptions and beliefs; like the clouds that cover the warm bright light of the Sun. It’s a re-connection to the God chip within.


Tuesday, December 13, 2011
25 Prayers I Pray for My Husband
This blog is going to all be prayers that I pray for my future husband, which I know that the Lord will bring me someday. I will start out with a list of 25 prayers that I found on pinterest. But I know that I will eventually diverge from that list. These are going to be all the things that I need my husband to me. Or that I want him to be. Or that I am asking the Lord to give him to make him a perfect husband to me and father to our (possible) children. I am going to try my very hardest to keep what I'm praying for biblical, so that I don't get out of hand and start asking for him to have red hair or something silly like that. Haha.


Dr. Sharon Thompson
Director of Counseling
It has been my honor for the past 20 years to walk with individuals and families through tough situations and to offer help and hope. I am a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor with adoption and foster care certifications, infant mental health certifications, TBRI and Theraplay training. I am also certified in EMDR therapy for PTSD, Gottman marriage counseling and have extensive experience in working with survivors of trauma. In addition, I have worked for the past 20 years, with children and adults with ADHD. I count it among my greatest privileges to sit with someone and hear their story. I stand ready and willing to listen to your story and to help you rewrite it into the story that God dreamed for you a long, long time ago.
"For as a man thinks within himself, so he is." Prov. 27:3
After spending over 25 years in Christian ministry, my passion to help others holistically (soul, body, and spirit), led me to the mental health field. Married for 23 years, with two daughters and one grandchild, I devote my time to helping others to reach a healthier, happier, and more purposeful life.
Each session is tailored to fit each person's unique needs including the following therapy approaches: Christian Counseling, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution (ART), Solution-Focused Brief (SFBT), and Gottman method and Life Coaching. I eagerly anticipate helping clients with Relationship Problems, Grief, Anger Management, Marital/Family/Pre-marital conflicts, Self-Esteem, Traumatic Memories, Stress Management, PTSD, Anxiety Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Personality Disorders.
- Population Served: Adults (18+), Couples, Families,
- Language: English or Portuguese.
- Education: M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling,
A.S. in Practical Ministry.
- Additional Training: Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), and Trauma-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI).
The struggle is real, but so is Jesus!
Life has a way of throwing us curveballs of spark fear, anxiety, trauma, and depression that can make our thoughts spin out of control. However, God said clearly in Isaiah 41:40, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” The good news is that we don’t have to do life alone! I am here to listen to your story and walk with you as you continue to write the next chapter that brings fulfillment and love through Jesus Christ.
Twenty years of experience working with children and adolescents have taught me that no single issue can be dealt with in isolation. I believe in a holistic, integrative approach to counseling that revolves around the whole person. Together, we will identify your concerns and approach them with a combination of therapeutic practices and scripture. I have training in cognitive-based therapy (CBT), Theraplay and play therapy techniques, art-informed therapy techniques, and trauma-based relational intervention (TBRI). I’m excited to work with people and families of all ages and backgrounds as we walk through this journey of healing and wellness together.
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” Romans 8:28
Life can be hard, and it is not fair. We have a real enemy and live in a broken world. The very good news is that we have a creator who made us to be loved and redeemed. He is our rescue and hope. He knows our story and He is for us. All His promises are yes and amen. Counseling can be very beneficial in helping to develop a coherent narrative that includes all your experiences and memories, both good and bad. I count it the highest honor to hear your story and to encourage you that God is in it. No matter what you have experienced, God can transform you from the inside out. It is possible to reframe your narrative and to be secure in God’s unfailing love for you.
“'For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord. 'They are plans for good and not disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me.'” – Jeremiah 29:11-13
It is my sincere hope and prayer for you that you can break through whatever adversity you face and walk into the Light of the Lord and the beautiful life He has laid out before you. When you are shrouded in darkness, it can seem like there is only darkness but Jesus says, “ I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” You are His child and you are loved!
“Peace does not dwell in outward things, but in the heart prepared to wait trustfully and quietly on Him who holds all things in His hands.” - Elisabeth Elliot
It is my honor to serve you as you seek healing and I pray that your time at Faith & Hope will be impactful not only in your healing but in your knowledge of the grace, love, and care of Christ. I am so grateful to be the first voice to welcome you into counseling. We exist to serve you and graciously guide you to the One who gives lasting hope and peace.
Mindy Von Ansbach Young
Mindy Von Ansbach Young
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified.” Isaiah 61:1-3
There is no better way to answer the questions of: “What am I doing as a counselor?” and “how am I doing what I do?” than with the aforementioned verse. All my life experiences (both good and bad), and my training (both as a counselor and as an engineer) have been and are being used by GOD to help “the poor, broken hearted, captive, bound, and mourning – whether they be young or old, married or single, female or male etc.
Originally from Ghana and having lived in Iowa City, IA and Columbia, SC before coming to Pensacola; I have a variety of experiences to draw from, in addition to my counseling training (even my background in civil engineering), that will help me point you towards true, lasting healing. I have training and experience with children, couples, individuals and families and welcome the opportunity to help you.
Mindy Von Ansbach Young
“I have been in public service my whole career but have always felt like I was being led to do more. I believe that strong families are the cornerstone of a thriving community, and as Christians it is our duty to follow Matthew 5:14 and be the light of the world. When we falter and are not exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit due to personal trouble or trauma as outlined in Galatians 5:22, what better way to receive a spiritual tune up than through Christ centered counselling. Having worked with disadvantaged children and families, as well as adults suffering from severe acute and chronic mental health crises, I have found that my ability to connect with them on a human level and remain open minded is one of my greatest strengths as I help them identify and develop strengths to cope with their challenges. All burdens are not meant to be dealt with alone. When someone is reaching out for help, I’m happy to provide assistance and demonstrate that where two or three are gathered in My name, there I am.”
Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28
Maybe you are feeling weary and burdened right now. You are not alone. I know that the challenges in our lives can oftentimes become overwhelming. My belief is that it is only when we seek God and fall on Him that we can find true healing. I have a background in childhood education and have also worked with adolescents and adults. It would be my great privilege to meet with you and work together with you toward your treatment goals. There is hope! There is help! My prayer is that your time at Faith and Hope Counseling Center would promote your faith in God and your sense of well-being.
"It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure." Psalm 18:32.
God shapes and prepares us to play a unique role in each step of our lives. He gives us purpose. Every moment we experience in life prepares us for the next part of our journey. Sometimes, that experience is seeking assistance. Whether that assistance requires encouragement and hope during hard times or more in-depth therapy, I am here to help.
I am a Trauma Therapist and am certified in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), MESE (Managing Emotional States Effectively), and trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
I am experienced/trained in Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Adolescent/Adult individual and group therapy. I continue to learn new techniques in order to provide the best services to meet my client's needs.
Graduate of Troy University 2021
Master of Science in Counseling and Psychology
I have worked with clients from young children to adults and senior citizens. I utilize numerous therapy techniques, such as CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, TBRI, EMDR as well as ART or Accelerated Resolution Therapy. I have experience treating clients who struggle with: Trauma, PTSD, Depression, Anxiety/Stress, Addictions, Behavioral Problems, Relational Difficulties to include Marriage /Partner Counseling. I also offers Christian Counseling which is Biblically based.
My passion for working with clients is to enable them to obtain the life they desire to live. A full and abundant life can often be found through, correcting negative thought patterns, boundary setting, use of coping skills, mindfulness, and grounding techniques. I work alongside my clients to develop positive, affirming life skills which empowers them to obtain the life they long for and deserve.
I graduated from Troy University with a Masters in Professional Counseling. Leslie also has an additional Masters from Liberty University in Human Services - Marriage and Family. I attended Bible College in Honolulu, Hawaii at New Hope Christian College and have a bachelor’s degree in Theology. I also have many years of experience in the medical field first as an LPN and as a Medical Sonographer.
If you are ready to live the life you long for, please call to set up an appointment today.


We're a Pentecostal Church.
Come for a refreshing, sure APPROACH to knowing your place with god
"...How shall they hear without a preacher?" Romans 10:14 shares the need for preaching in the Christian's life. Striving for excellence in every service, we preach the Bible. God's presence is powerfully felt as His truths are expounded and received.
Preaching is not an afterthought here. Here are the essential doctrines of the Bible.
Praise and worship is an exciting time at the GAP Church. As we thank God for all He has done please join us. Hopefully you will also be reminded of the blessings in your own life.
Our pastor's wife is a widely celebrated singer who you will enjoy and are welcome to join this Sunday!
Our kids are precious! What could be better than connecting them to the God who loves them? Jesus said to let the little children come to Him, and still today we are introducing the "little ones" to their Savior.
Please also know that we have Adult Sunday School, which disciples us closer to God. We all need teaching as well as preaching.


Read what our parents have to say about us!
The Morris Family
Parents of a Pre K student
My daughter loves Saint David Catholic School – from the teachers to the students to the classroom environment. Saint David emphasizes the importance of values, Catholic beliefs, and builds compassionate leaders. The teachers are passionate about seeing their students succeed and genuinely care about spending time with them. They are so great about sharing my child’s moments of pride and happiness. The administration is involved and understands about the parents’ needs as well. We love it here; we feel like family.
The Miranda Family
Parents of a 2nd grade student
The Miranda family is very grateful with the school for the support they gave us during Covid-19. Her father was in the hospital almost a year because of this virus. Will never forget it!
The Darbut Family
Parents of a Kindergarten student
I absolutely love the foundation the school is setting for my child. They teach the kids about love and faith as well as giving to those less fortunate. I am so happy to send my daughter to this school. Best decision ever.


I was reading an article on Christianity Today (amongst other blogs) earlier on about the subject of "organic church" and its possible success and probable future failures. Now, I'll admit I didn't (don't?) know a great deal about organic church other than I've heard the name thrown about before. According to the article it includes " at least three ingredients" to be counted as "organic". First being "Frustration with the-church-as-we-know-it" - well I'm sure there's quite a few people who would fall into that category, I know I do! The second ingredient for this recipe for church is "a focus on people (vs. programs)" - now this is another point I reckon a fair few church-goers could relate to. I know we like to say the focus is on people, but there are times that come to mind where it's meant to have been about the people, but the project became the focus. With phrases like "it's our baby" and taking all the ownership of a project too heavily. Not that feeling a sense of ownership is necessarily a bad thing, but maybe when having a project means more to you than the impact it's having on the people it was initially intended for, then maybe it has become a bad thing and the program or project defines you rather than the other way around. We all like control and the feeling of our own little empires, but I believe Jesus was more about giving up those desires to follow the Kingdom and its principles - which is definitely people focussed. If a program isn't reaching people in a positive way, yet we cling onto keeping it alive and running, then we have lost the focus and care more for our own thing than for people.
I'm not saying all churches are like this, far from it, just that we ought to be aware of such things happening. Especially if we are serious about "doing" church right, doing it "the Jesus way" (if there is such a thing), expanding the Kingdom, being people focussed - being organic.
The third ingredient for this church-pie is "mission (vs. institutional maintenance)". Again, another heavily focussed people initiative, which is very similar to the second point, but at the same time much broader. Whereas programs are internal structures for members and maybe external but select groups of people, mission should be global. However local, local church may be, the mission field is still all the places outside of the church doors, and therefore global and not confined to a particular group of people. Yes, I'm aware that mission trips etc are often focussed in a particular area, or people group, but that doesn't take away from the fact that mission is a global endeavour - Jesus' words "to the ends of the earth" should echo through the very core of mission, and indeed, the Church as a whole in terms of where we should be going and aiming for.
Now contrast this with "institutional maintenance" - however you define that, it definitely doesn't sound much like "mission". Should we really be trying to maintain an institution? Is that really what people want in or as a church? But the real question I think is this: do non-church people want an institution?
The Church, the spiritual movement, that Jesus began and that was continued through the apostles should be transformational to people's lives. The love, grace and healing power that comes through Jesus is what should define and change people in the Church and those that come to be a part of it. Institution breeds apathy and comfort that's easy. A place that we can proclaim to be a part of and attend each week, and maybe on a Tuesday and Thursday as well for Bible study and prayer from 7.30 until 9.30pm. If we're honest with ourselves, after reading the Gospels and Acts and then looking at our own church, and maybe the Church as a whole (at least in the Western world), does it match up, even slightly? Is what we have really what we want for Church?
I haven't read lots on the subject of organic church, but from my brief reading today of websites and blogs from church leaders who advocate this style of doing church, but what I've wrote here is what I can gather organic church to, at least in a small part, be like or aiming to have these qualities.
And this is the kind of church I'd like to be a part of.


Saturday, December 06, 2014
Gift Basket Exchange
We exchange baskets filled with all those Christmas-y things one can enjoy between now and Christmas day.
And we all put something in a basket for the children too!
Of course, they get candy in their basket, but I also have my wooden shoes filled with candy also.
There were also Christmas CDs. DVDs, and books to enjoy during the advent season.
Candles, and coffees, and soaps, and cute Christmas-y dishtowels.


The faces aren't even close but then again Da Vinci wasn't there.
"God is an assassin!"
"Judas! That is blasphemy!"
"What else am I to think if we are made in God's image? The love, the miracles, everything! All just to end up in murder, plain and simple."
"But it's not plain and simple. It's prophesied!"
"Don't hand me any of that prophecy garbage. This isn't some inescapable act of Nature. It's a choice by men, no two ways about it."
Each disciple had always known on some level of the coming ultimate doom. Only Judas had held out hope it would not come, that Jesus would announce an unseen hope for Mankind. It was Judas who loved Jesus' work the most and took delicious delight in the truths he shared. See? The world doesn't have to be this way! We can all live if we choose! But now that entire effort seemed for naught.
The rest of the disciples were in awe of Judas' effortless and instantaneous grasp of reality and felt challenged by his visceral assertion. To say this was meant to be was a lie. But they also felt something else, a sense of disconnect and an inner discontent within Judas. Now that Jesus formally announced his coming death, something snapped inside Judas and the dam that held back his conservative waters finally broke.
Judas wandered off. "What a load of goat shit this is. What's the point of anything?" In the past, Jesus' sparring with the faithless religious leaders gave Judas a special satisfaction. He clearly saw it as a triumph of the Truth as the leaders' falseness was exposed and they walked away in bitter torment. Some of the other disciples were doubtful of Jesus' rebuke of institutions that were ordained to represent God. But they quelled their doubts with some effort even as Judas was laughing at these special exchanges of dialog.
Now the roles had reversed. With the announcement it was plain to see that every man who tells the truth could also expect crucifixion. "How the hell is that sustainable? Let every person die who tells the truth and the whole planet dies! Is that Your plan, God? To let everyone die? That with endless love comes endless cruelty?"
Judas was well aware - and saw for himself - what Jesus foresaw. He knew Mankind was setting itself up for a great and horrible crash without recourse. And that left unattended the planet would become extinct. But there would be divine intervention, the world made whole, and the destroyers gone forever - but all at a terrible, terrible price that permanently and forever brands the human mind. "Why must we pay this price??"
That's when Judas broke faith. "Piss on it. If God wants Jesus to win then God is going to have to get off His ass and do something about it! I'll go to those dark priests and let them buy me so they'll be satisfied to my motives. Then I'll hand over Jesus and we'll see who gives a shit then." Judas could find no error in his logic yet a voice still screamed within him: "You can't do that!" And despite the fact he deemed his plan faultless and pure and in accordance with The Way, he hid it from the other disciples who would certainly oppose it.
Only after the fact did Judas realize his mistake. Till the end of time he'd forfeited his inheritance in the kingdom of God. He'd set himself up as God, separating himself from his reward. Who was he to be angry with Nature? Hadn't he spent his entire life knowing and believing in the joy of Her justice? But irrational anger and stubborn baseless negativity claimed his ultimate loyalty. He knew he'd done it - betrayed his savior - but if asked, he could not answer why, even to himself.
"And they called me the smart one."
"The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him.
But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man!
It would be better for him if he had not been born."
Most of us are betrayers. It happens every time we lie to ourselves, when we sell out from fear or weakness, when we call the Important unimportant and the unimportant Important, twisting truth to suit ourselves. I've even refused things I wanted in an effort to "prove" myself correct in my so-called righteous anger. Where does this insanity come from? One thing we do know: to fear the consequences of said behavior.
"Jesus asked Judas to betray him!" I hear this said with a smug cleverness of supposed insight and a twinkling eye that winks, Bet you never thought of that! Responsibility is the fabric of the universe and through it all things can be surmised. Anyone who says Jesus asked Judas to betray him is not interested in taking responsibility. What they are trying to do is justify their own betrayal even if it is done on the laughable premise your fellow man can give absolution. It ain't gonna be your next door neighbor to whom you answer on judgement day.
Love is really hard - and no truth exists outside of it.


Counselling – online
Counselling – in person
Psychology Year 8 Course in Victorian Secondary Colleges
Chua’s Christian Perspectives
BBA Seniors Handbook
Rethinking porn & teen sexual wellbeing
Chua’s Christian Perspectives: Alt.Sex
Revisioning Godly Sex
Understanding the digital age
Secret lives of Boys
Cyberawareness for teens
Emotional Sex for Teens
Should Christians watch/enjoy secular movies/television? Because i have read passages in the Bible such as 1 John 2:15 or Colossians 3:2. Have I taken these verses out of context? I happen to have a love for entertaining films and I realize that they don't really help me in my relationship with God but i genuinely enjoy watching these films/shows. Thanks Chua!
I keep letting God down but I want to be like Jesus. In speaking, sharing, loving others, putting other's interests infront of my own i think im fine with. But when it comes to pornography or random sexual desires or thoughts (im a teenager by the way) I cant seem to stand firm in my faith, I turn into someone else that i know ill hate after I sin. In some cases, I tend to question my faith. I do realize that there is a similar post below, but I want a separate answer for my question. Thanks
I hear a lot of Christians talk about a relationship with God, but I often feel that when I pray, or read the bible, it is just me there. Sometimes I think God is telling me something, but it is usually in my own minds voice... is there something more I should be doing?
Member of APS / ABN: 3157 4287 351 / Medicare Provider: 4633561X / AHPRA: PSY0001121348


White flowers and a clean fresh smell–what is more spring-like? Lily of the Valley are also called Mary’s Tears. The name alludes to the legend that the flower sprang from the tears of Mary during the crucifixion of Jesus. Hence, their appearance right around Easter. In the language of flowers, Lily of the Valley signifies the return of happiness. Garden flowers in the spring, Lily of the Valley at my bedside, a candle, and a good book–these make me happy!


MOST HOLY MOTHER OF GOD CATHOLIC PARISH, VLADIVOSTOK, RUSSIA
Home Introduction Lesson One Questions Contacts Links Donations
If you want to know what Christianity is all about you came to the right place. By studying twelve lessons of our e-mail course you will learn about the salvation history of mankind, the earthly life of Jesus Christ, commandments and structure of the Church, and the interpretation and understanding of the Bible from the Catholic point of view.
You may enroll right now. Just put your e-mail address in the box below and you will receive Lesson One by e-mail.
Or you can read Lesson One and answer the Questions to receive second lesson.
The author of the lessons is Fr.
Myron Effing, Pastor
of the Most Holy Mother of God Roman Catholic Church, Vladivostok, Russia
of the Most Holy Mother of God Roman Catholic Church, Vladivostok, Russia, but instructor of the course is catechist Viktor Anisimov. If you have any questions about Christianity or Catholicism specifically, please feel free to ask.


The other Egyptian elections: selecting the next Coptic Orthodox pope
When Pope Shenouda III of Alexandria passed away on March 17 this year, the outpouring of grief among Egypt’s Coptic Christian community was tremendous. Tens of thousands of Egyptian Christians and other mourners travelled to the immense St. Mark’s Cathedral in central Cairo, filling the main church and the surrounding grounds. With the passing of Pope Shenouda, the spiritual head of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, the Coptic community faced an uncertain transition at a time when many of Egypt’s political institutions, from the police force to the very constitution, were (and still are) in constant flux.
The end of the mourning period set in motion the lengthy selection process for the new pope, carried out under the supervision of Metropolitan Bishop Pachomius, responsible for the churches of the Nile Delta and second in seniority among the Coptic clergy. According to the 1957 succession law, a committee selected from among the Holy Synod of Coptic Bishops will convene on October 4, to consider an initial list of 17 candidates and hear any objections against them. On November 24, the committee will submit between five and eight names to an assembly of some 2,400 electors, chosen from the elders and leaders among the Church clergy and the various dioceses, as well as five representatives from the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. Finally, on December 2, the elective assembly will release the names of three final candidates. These names will be placed inside a silver urn on the altar of St. Mark’s, from which a blindfolded male child will draw forth the name of the 118th Patriarch of the Church of Alexandria.
Pope Shenouda’s successor will join a line of Church fathers stretching back to St. Mark the Evangelist, who first passed through Alexandria in the first century AD en route to undertake missionary work in Africa. Coptic tradition holds that the Church of Alexandria began when St. Mark stopped to have a sandal repaired, managing to convert his Alexandrian cobbler in the process. From these humble beginnings, Orthodox Christianity grew to become the dominant religion in Egypt, remaining so for centuries after the arrival of Islam at the end of the 7th century AD. The monastic traditions of Christian Churches the world over owe their beginnings to the Coptic Desert Fathers, such as St. Anthony, who journeyed out into the deserts to draw closer to God. The importance of the monastic movement to the modern Coptic Church is reflected in the nomination requirements for the papacy, one of which is that all candidates must have spent at least 15 years in monastic life.
The papal elections provide a rare opportunity to focus on the internal issues that the Coptic Orthodox Church struggles with at the outset of the 21st century. When he is finally selected on December 2, the new Coptic Pope will have to begin addressing these issues, which include the rigid and undemocratic nature of the Church hierarchy, the role of women within the Church, the right to divorce (or lack thereof), and the Church’s stance towards other Christian denominations. The Pope will also have to continue his predecessor’s balancing act as the public spokesman for much of the Egyptian Christian community, navigating the Coptic Orthodox community’s place as a significant Christian minority in a largely Muslim country — an estimated 10 percent of a total population of 80 million. Furthermore, the Coptic Orthodox Church is no longer confined to the Nile River and its surroundings: Pope Shenouda’s 40 years at the head of the Church of Alexandria saw him travel abroad more than any previous church leader, appointing the first Coptic Bishops to oversee communities in North America, South America, Europe, and Australia.
All of these issues will play into the selection of the papal candidates over the next few months. The names forwarded to the electoral committee will speak to the Holy Synod’s vision of the Coptic Church in the future as well as the candidate’s personal ties to the Coptic community. With this in mind, we take a closer look at some of the leading candidates:
Bishoy, Metropolitan Bishop of Damietta and Kufr-Sheikh
Secretary of the Holy Synod and head of the Clerical Council for Church Trials, Bishop Bishoy wields great power within the Church hierarchy and enjoys close ties with many of its members. Born in 1942, he is one of the oldest candidates up for nomination and also one of the most conservative, particularly on issues relating to women and other Christian denominations. His hard-line stance, as well as his close ties to Hosni Mubarak-era political figures, has not exactly endeared him to the Coptic community at large. Various statements, such as comparing Coptic women unfavorably to their Muslim counterparts or referring to Muslims as “guests” in Coptic Egypt, have come across as extremely undiplomatic at a time when the Coptic community is navigating a stressful and delicate transition along with the rest of the country. Still, Bishoy has a good measure of support in the Nile Delta as well as in the Giza and Cairo Governorates, as well as within the Holy Synod itself.
Baphnotious, Bishop of Samalut and Taha al-‘Ameda
In contrast to Bishoy, Bishop Baphnotious, born in 1948, has positioned himself as something of a reformer within the Church, a position that has placed him at odds with the Holy Synod over the years. At the heart of the matter is a book which Baphnotious wrote in 1997, which criticized the 1957 arrangement for the selection of the Pope as well as the governing rules of the Holy Synod itself, including those which have allowed Bishoy to sit at the head of the body for some 27 years. In response, Pope Shenouda III ordered the book confiscated, while Baphnotious’ critics have labeled him as following anticlerical Protestant teachings. Still, a significant portion of the Coptic community supports his call for reform, including many of the bishops of Upper Egypt and those in the Coptic diaspora, particularly in North America.
Raphael, General Bishop of Central Cairo
Responsible for many of the churches of central Cairo, Bishop Raphael also helps to oversee the Coptic Church’s Youth Ministry, enjoying a wide following among younger generations of the Coptic community as a result. Raphael has maintained a fairly low media profile over the years, although occasional statements have indicated his view of the Coptic Church as a religious institution first and foremost rather than serving as a Coptic political institution. Born in 1958, he is known for his reticence and self-discipline, while claiming the support of Cairo’s bishops and the heads of the various monasteries.
Youannes, General Bishop for Church Services and Former Secretary to the Pope
At 42, Bishop Youannes is one of the youngest candidates up for consideration by the Holy Synod’s committee. Though known for the composition of many religious hymns, his name has also been connected to allegations of corruption and misappropriation of Church money over the years. This has led some to perceive Youannes as being far too eager for the Throne of St. Mark, particularly after a section of his memoirs was leaked in 2009, revealing a vision in which he saw himself as the future pope of the Coptic Church. Despite these concerns and accusations of cooperating with the Mubarak regime’s security apparatus, Youannes is supported by many bishops of Upper Egypt as well as South America.
Boutros, General Bishop and Fmr. Secretary to the Pope
Born in 1949, Bishop Boutros rose to the rank of Secretary to the Pope by 1988, though he also took up the administration of the Monastery of St. Thomas in Upper Egypt in addition to serving on the governing board of the Church’s television station “Agape.” Beyond managing other Church holdings, he has garnered broad support from the Church’s bishops for defending Coptic rights on numerous occasions, such as when he faced off against the Egyptian state in an attempt to enlarge and renovate the Monastery of St. Thomas — current Egyptian law required an order from the president himself in order to build a new church or enlarge an existing building.
photos by Andrew Leber


I implore every Catholic IF blogger (or anyone) out there reading this to say this this novena. It is truly the most miraculous prayer I have ever encountered.
My mom introduced me to this obscure little novena several months ago when she found it in a little Catholic bookstore in town. She then heard about how powerful it was and said the novena for my brother, who was a fallen-away Catholic, but at the time beginning to search for more meaning. She began the novena on a Thursday. My brother then left for a business retreat the following weekend. She finished the novena that Saturday. He returned home on Sunday, walked into her house, and announced he was coming back to the Catholic Church. Just like that.
Needless to say, my mom was sold! She also said the novena for me before and during my surgery. And after a successful surgery I'm now pregnant with twins.
Ladies...I can't urge you enough! Order this novena. I wear the ring on my right hand at all times in honor of Our Lady, Undoer of Knots. I'm not saying it will cure everyone! I'm just saying it's a very powerful prayer that you may not have yet heard of. And a few more prayers can't hurt!


Bible Readings, Prayers and Blessings
If your loved one was a member of the Christian faith and it was their wish to have a religious funeral, Bible readings can form an important part of the service. Verses from the Bible can help acknowledge the loss of someone and bring comfort for Christians mourning the death of a friend or relative.
For Everything There Is a Season
For everything there is a season, and time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die;
A time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
A time to kill, and a time to heal;
A time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn and a time to dance;
A time to throw away stones and a time to gather stones together;
A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
A time to seek, and a time to lose;
A time to keep, and a time to throw away;
A time to tear, and a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
A time to love, and a time to hate;
A time for war, and time for peace.
Rejoice and be Glad, for your Reward will be Great in Heaven
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew
Seeing the crowds, Jesus went up the hill. There he sat down and was joined by his disciples. Then he began to speak. This is what he taught them:
“How happy are the poor in spirit; theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Happy the gentle: they shall have the earth for their heritage.
Happy those who mourn: they shall be comforted.
Happy those who hunger and thirst for what is right: they shall be satisfied.
Happy the merciful: they shall have mercy shown them.
Happy the pure in heart: they shall see God.
Happy the peacemakers: they shall be called sons of God.
Happy those who are persecuted in the cause of right: theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Happy are you when people abuse you and persecute you and speak all kinds of calumny against you on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.”
He will Transfigure these Wretched Bodies of Ours into Copies of his Glorious Body
A reading from the letter of St Paul to the Philippians 3:20–21
For us, our homeland is in heaven, and from heaven comes the saviour we are waiting for, the Lord Jesus Christ, and he will transfigure these wretched bodies of ours into copies of his glorious body. He will do that by the same power with which he can subdue the whole universe.
The Lord is My Shepherd
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures;
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul;
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for Thou art with me;
Thy rod and Thy staff, they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.
Let us Live a New Life
A reading from the letter of St Paul to the Romans 6:3–9
When we were baptised in Christ Jesus we were baptised in his death; in other words, when we were baptised we went into the tomb with him and joined him in death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the Father’s glory, we too might live a new life.
If in union with Christ we have imitated his death, we shall also imitate him in his resurrection. We must realise that our former selves have been crucified with him to destroy this sinful body and to free us from the slavery of sin. When a man dies, of course, he has finished with sin.
But we believe that having died with Christ we shall return to life with him: Christ, as we know, having been raised from the dead will never die again. Death has no power over him anymore.
There are Many Rooms in my Father’s House
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 14:1–6
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Do not let your hearts be troubled.
Trust in God still, and trust in me.
There are many rooms in my Father’s house;
If there were not, I should have told you.
I am going now to prepare a place for you,
And after I have gone and prepared you a place,
I shall return to take you with me;
So that where I am
You may be too.
You know the way to the place where I am going.
Thomas said, ‘Lord, we do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way?’
‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life.
No one can come to the Father except through me.”
I Want Them to be With Me Where I Am
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 17:24–26
Jesus raised his eyes to heaven and said:
I want those you have given me
To be with me where I am,
So that they may always see the glory
You have given me
Because you loved me
Before the foundation of the world.
Father, Righteous One,
The world has not known you,
But I have known you,
And these have known
That you have sent me.
I have made your name known to them
And will continue to make it known
So that the love with which you loved me may be in them,
And so that I may be in them.”
Lazarus, Come Out
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 11:32–45
Mary the sister of Lazarus went to Jesus, and as soon as she saw him she threw herself at his feet, saying, Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.’ At the sight of her tears, and those of the Jews who followed her, Jesus said in great distress, with a sigh that came straight from the heart, ‘Where have you put him?’ They said, ‘Lord, come and see’. Jesus wept; and the Jews said, ‘See how much he loved him!’ But there were some who remarked, ‘He opened the eyes of the blind man, could he not have prevented this man’s death?’ Still sighing, Jesus reached the tomb: it was a cave with a stone to close the opening. Jesus said, ‘Take the stone away.’ Martha said to him, ‘Lord, by now he will smell; this is the fourth day.’ Jesus replied, ‘Have I not told you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?’ So they took away the stone. Then Jesus lifted up his eyes and said:
“Father, I thank you for hearing my prayer. I knew indeed that you always hear me, but I speak for the sake of all these who stand round me, so that they may believe it was you who sent me.’
When he had said this, he cried in a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, here! Come out!’ The dead man came out, his feet and hands bound with bands of stuff and a cloth round his face. Jesus said to them, ‘Unbind him, let him go free.”
Many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary and had seen what he did believed in him.
If a Wheat Grain Dies, it Yields a Rich Harvest
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 12:23–26
Jesus said to his disciples:
“Now the hour has come
For the Son of Man to be glorified.
I tell you, most solemnly,
Unless a wheat grain falls on the ground and dies,
It remains only a single grain;
But if it dies,
It yields a rich harvest.
Anyone who loves his life loses it;
Anyone who hates his life in this world
Will keep it for the eternal life.
If a man serves me, he must follow me,
Wherever I am, my servant will be there too.
If anyone serves me, my Father will honour him.”
Whoever Believes in the Son has Eternal Life and I shall Raise Him Up on the Last Day
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 6:37–40
Jesus said to the crowd:
‘All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I shall not turn him away; because I have come from heaven, not to do my own will, but to do the will of the one who sent me. Now the will of him who sent me is that I should lose nothing of all that he has given to me, and that I should raise it up on the last day. Yes, it is my Father’s will that whoever sees the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and that I shall raise him up on the last day.’
I am the Resurrection and the Life
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 11:21–27
Martha said to Jesus, ‘If you had been here, my brother would not have died, but I know that, even now, whatever you ask of God, he will grant you’. ‘Your brother,’ said Jesus to her, ‘will rise again.’ Martha said, ‘I know he will rise again at the resurrection on the last day’. Jesus said: ‘I am the resurrection and the life. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies he will live, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?’
‘Yes, Lord,’ she said, ‘I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who was to come into this world.’
The Bridegroom is Here! Go Out and Meet Him
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 25:1–13
Jesus spoke this parable to his disciples:
‘The kingdom of heaven will be like this; Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were sensible: the foolish ones did take their lamps, but they brought no oil, whereas the sensible ones took flasks of oil as well as their lamps. The bridegroom was late and they all grew drowsy and fell asleep. But at midnight there was a cry. “The bridegroom is here! Go out and meet him.”
At this, all those bridesmaids woke up and trimmed their lamps, and the foolish ones said to the sensible ones,” Give us some of your oil: our lamps are going out”. But they replied, “There may not be enough for us and for you; you had better go to those who sell it and buy some for yourselves”. They had gone off to buy it when the bridegroom arrived. Those who were ready went in with him to the wedding hall and the door was closed. The other bridesmaids arrived later. “Lord, Lord,” they said, “open the door for us.” But he replied, “I tell you solemnly, I do not know you”. So, stay awake, because you do not know either the day or the hour.’
Anyone who Eats this Bread has Eternal Life, and I shall Raise Him Up on the Last Day.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 6:51–58
Jesus said to the crowd:
‘I am the living bread which has come down from heaven. Anyone who eats this bread will live for ever; and the bread that I shall give is my flesh, for the life of the world.’
Then the Jews started arguing with one another: ‘How can this man give us his flesh to eat?’ they said. Jesus replied: ‘I tell you most solemnly, if you do not eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you will not have life in you. Anyone who does eat my flesh and drink my blood has eternal life, and I shall raise him up on the last day.
For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood lives in me and I live in him. As I, who am sent by the living Father, myself draw life from the Father, so whoever eats me will draw life from me. This is the bread come down from heaven; not like the bread our ancestors ate: they are dead, but anyone who eats this bread will live for ever.’
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 12:35–40
Jesus said to his disciples: ‘See that you are dressed for action and have your lamps lit. Be like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, ready to open the door as soon as he comes and knocks.
Happy those servants whom the master finds awake when he comes. I tell you solemnly, he will put on an apron, sit them down at table and wait on them. It may be in the second watch he comes, or in the third, but happy those servants if he finds them ready.
You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what hour the burglar would come, he would not have let anyone break through the wall of his house. You too must stand ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.’
Come to Me, and I Will Give you Rest
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 11:25–30
Jesus exclaimed, ‘I bless you, Father, Lord of heaven and of earth, for hiding these things from the learned and the clever and revealing them to mere children. Yes, Father, for that is what it pleased you to do. Everything has been entrusted to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, just as no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
‘Come to me, all you who labour and are overburdened, and I will give you rest. Shoulder my yoke and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Yes, my yoke is easy and my burden light.’
Whoever Listens to my Words and Believes has Passed from Death to Life.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 5:24–29
Jesus said to the Jews:
I tell you most solemnly, whoever listens to my words, and believes in the one who sent me has eternal life; without being brought to judgement he has passed from death to life. I tell you most solemnly, the hour will come — in fact, it is here already — when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and all who hear it will live. For the Father, who is the source of life, has made the Son the source of life; and, because he is the Son of Man, has appointed him supreme judge.
Do not be surprised at this, for the hour is coming when the dead will leave their graves at the sound of his voice; those who did good will rise again to life; and those who did evil, to condemnation. I can do nothing by myself; I can only judge as I am told to judge, and my judging is just, because my aim is to do not my own will, but the will of him who sent me.’
Untarnished Life, This is Ripe Old Age
A reading from the Book of Wisdom 4:7–15
The virtuous man, though he die before his time, will find rest. Length of days is not what makes age honourable, nor number of years the true measure of life; understanding, this is man’s grey hairs, untarnished life, this is ripe old age. He has sought to please God, so God has loved him; as he was living among sinners, he has been taken up.
He has been carried off so that evil may not warp his understanding or treachery seduce his soul; for the fascination of evil throws good things into the shade, and the whirlwind of desire corrupts a simple heart. Coming to perfection in so short a while, he achieved long life; his soul being pleasing to the Lord, he has taken him quickly from the wickedness around him. Yet people look on, uncomprehending; it does not enter their heads that grace and mercy await the chosen of the Lord, and protection, his holy ones.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
“For I am sure that neither death nor life … nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Prayers or a Blessing Often Bring Great Comfort
A memorial prayer is a beautiful way to express what just what the person meant to the people mourning them. The Lord’s Prayer is often part of the order of service at ceremonies centred around the Christian faith, but there are other prayers and non-religious blessings that are suitable for a friend or relative to offer up at a memorial or celebration of life. These blessings and prayers to say at a service may inspire you.
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come;
thy will be done;
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation;
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
the power and the glory,
for ever and ever.
Funeral Blessing for a Loved One
May you always walk in sunshine,
and God around you flow.
For the happiness you gave us,
No one will ever know.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
But you did not go alone.
A part of us went with you
The day God called you home.
A million times we needed you
A million times we cried.
If love could only have saved you
You would have never died.
The Lord be with you and may you rest in peace.
A Celtic Death Blessing
I pray that you will have the blessing of being consoled.
May you know in your soul that there is no need to be afraid.
When your time comes, may you be given every blessing and shelter that you need.
May there be a beautiful welcome for you in the home that you are going to.
You are not going somewhere strange.
You are going back to the home that you never left.
May you have a wonderful urgency to live your life to the full.
May you live compassionately and creatively and transfigure everything that is negative within you and about you.
When you come to die may it be after a long life.
May you be peaceful and happy and in the presence of those who really care for you.
May your going be sheltered and your welcome assured.
May your soul smile in the embrace of your anam cara (soul friend).
Christian Prayer for a Loved One
We are so grateful that you have made us all in your own image, giving us gifts and talents with which to serve you.
Thank you for (loved one’s name) life, and all the years we shared with him/her. We lift him/her to you today, in honour of the good we saw in him/her and the love we felt from him/her.
Please give us the strength to leave him/her in your care, in the knowledge of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
Catholic Funeral Prayer
O God, Creator and Redeemer
Of all Your faithful people
Grant to the souls of all our faithful departed
Your mercy, light and peace
Lord, we pray that those we love
Who have gone before us in faith
May know Your forgiveness for their sins
And the blessings of everlasting life
In the company with the Virgin Mary
And all the angels and saints in ancient Heaven
An Apache Grief Blessing
May the sun bring you energy every day, bringing light into the darkness of your soul.
May the moon softly restore you by light bathing you in the glow of restful sleep and peaceful dreams.
May the rain wash away your worries and cleanse the hurt that sits in your heart.
May the breeze blow new strength into your being, and may you believe in the courage of yourself.
May you walk gently through the world, keeping your loved one with you always, knowing that you are never parted in the beating of your heart.
Non-religious Funeral Blessing
Be free, be strong, be proud of who you have been, know that you will be mourned and missed, that no one can replace you, that you have loved and are beloved.
Move beyond form, flowing like water, feeding on sunlight and moonlight, radiant as the stars in the night sky.
Rest, heal, grow young again.
A Prayer for a Grieving Friend
Today I ask you to help (friend’s name). I ask you to be with them while they struggle in the darkness of grief. May he/she recognise joy in the memories, hope in your love, and peace in the pain. May you walk beside him/her in his/her journey to recovery, filling the void and emptiness with your presence.
An Irish Blessing
May the road rise to meet you.
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sunshine warm upon your face.
May the rains fall upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the hollow of His hand.
Prayer of Thanks
God our Father,
We thank you that you have made each of us
in your own image, and given us gifts and talents with which to serve you.
We thank you for [Name], the years we shared with him/her, the good we saw in him/her, the love we received from him/her.
Now give us strength and courage to leave him/her in your care, confident in your promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.


Recently, at the Vineyard Men’s Retreat in Challis, I shared a little about my own dad. The guest speaker David Parker opened the mic on the final morning for testimonies and I jumped at the chance, because I felt a burden to share about my broken relationship with my dad. I believe there are plenty of men who, for one reason or another, are disconnected from their fathers, and I wanted to encourage other guys like me who have daddy issues.
As I said that morning from the stage, I’ve been trying my whole life to get my dad to engage, to show interest in my life, to be involved in what I do and in who I am. Sadly, he has never done that; not once. The only times we’ve been even semi-close or involved with each other have been when either I or my mom took the initiative or reached out. Ever since the divorce, he’s been passive, disengaged; he’s deferred to others—especially my step-mother. I realized the most painful part of it all only a few years ago—that in the process of destroying our family when I was two years old, he literally traded us in for something he wanted more. That’s been borne out by a great many bits of evidence, from how he does engage with my step-relatives to the fact that I haven’t received a phone call, email, letter, or even a card from him in the 5+ years since I decided to see how long it might take for him to notice me.
I share this not to bitch and moan. I share it only to illustrate that these patterns do not have to continue in my life, and especially not in the lives of my own two boys. I’ve made attempts to reconcile, don’t get me wrong. But at this point, it’s clear he just doesn’t want to be a dad or a grandfather to me or my brother and our families. I have moved past that. Now I focus on my own boys. So does my brother, with his own. We’ve had a great many conversations about this. One thing we decided upon was that it was a net good for us simply to be present in the lives of our boys. Sure, we mess up as dads from time to time. But we’re here. That’s the bare minimum, and we’re accomplishing that with gusto. I personally, and I know I can speak for my brother on this point as well, want more for me and my boys than just to be present.
I want to involve them in my life, and I want to be involved in theirs. Just last night, I was walking and praying and asking God to show me what to pray for in their lives for this next year or so. He showed me. He gave me specific things to pray for. I’m not going to share specifics here, because it’s none of your damn business, frankly, especially if you’re not family. But suffice it to say that what God led me to pray for in my boys is exactly what they need for this upcoming season of life, and it’s all blessing. I can’t wait to get started.
And if you’re like me, if you had to struggle through boyhood and manhood for years without much of an example, take heart. God uses that hunger to produce amazing and miraculous deeds of warrior fathering and genuine masculinity, not only in your life, but in the lives of your kiddos. Trust me, I know. My life is proof that God loves to use what everyone else thinks is useless and wasted and broken, and through grace, make it something magnificent. That’s what a man’s heart for his boys is. Magnificent.


The 2015 Synod convened in Bethel on January 26, to January 30, 2015. Brother Thomas W. Conrad,Pastor of the Bethel Moravian Church conducted the Devotion and Invocation. A total of fifty-four (54) Pastors, Elected Delegates, Ex-Officio Members, Provincial Treasurer, Provincial Finance Committee, andYouth Council attended from twenty (20) congregations and one (1) fellowship station. Two (2) churches were absent, and one (1) fellowship station. Guests introduced are: Luther and Michelle Harrison (Samaritan’s Purse), Don and Karen Hayes (Samaritan’s Purse), David Grosz, and Judy Ganz (BWM).
The Rev. Isaac B. Amik served as the 2015 Synod Chairman.
Appointments: Translators: Sister Darlene Daniel and Walter Larson Sr., Tellers: Alaska Bible Seminary
Students; Resolution Committee: Nelson Angapak, Thomas W. Conrad, and Jones Anaver, (Mike Kaganak, Alternate); Parliamentarians: Pat Samson and Nelson Angapak, Second Secretary: Sister Elsie Jimmie, and Sargeant-at-Arms: Isaac Tuday.
The 2014 Synod Highlights were adopted and approved.
The Synod theme is “A Prayer for Holiness and Purity” with Scripture from (I Thess. 3:11-4:8).
The Keynote Address was presented by, Mr. Luther Harrison of (Samaritan’s Purse).
Elections: Rev. Jones Anaver was elected as the APB Ordained Member (2018); Brother Joe Amik as the
Lay Member (2018), and Brother Andrew Kiunya as the Lay Member to finish a term (2017). Brother Peter
Matthew as the PBE Member (2018); and Brother John Charlie as the ACC Board Member (2018).
Reports were heard from the President / APB, Provincial Treasurer, Provincial Women’s Fellowship,
Anchorage Hospital Chaplain, Yup’ik Old Testament Translation Project, Provincial Hymnal Committee,
Alaska Bible Seminary, Board of World Mission, Provincial Board of Evangelism, Bookstore, Provincial
Land & Policy Committee, and Nunapitsinghak Camp’s current standing.
The 2015 proposed budget totaling $ 178, 846.45 for Administration was presented and approved; the
CE/Youth Program budget totaling $ 50,000.00 was presented and approved, and the Alaska Bible Seminary
Program budget totaling $ 123, 293.00 was presented and approved.
Synod Directives: 1) (APB) to look into the concerns / needs for a Bethel Hospital Chaplain, and to make it a
reality. 2) (APB) to research the Group Life Insurance, and present it at the 2016 Synod. 3) (APB) to pursue
as authorized the most efficient way to address rebuilding or replacing the President’s residence before 2016.
Wednesday Synod evening worship was conducted by the C. E. Department as the Singspiration Service and
concluded by the Alaska Bible Seminary.
2015 SYNOD RESOLUTIONS:
1. Synod Resolution # 15-01: Be it resolved that under the item H, Section XII, # 849, be amended as
stated: H. Should unmarried (Moravian) heterosexual parents who are living together ask for baptism of
their child(ren), they shall be given an opportunity to be counseled to seek marriage counseling and marry
before they can be approved for baptism. In case of a single parent with child(ren), baptism request may
be granted by the Board of Elders after pre-baptism counseling, and that sponsor(s) be required to take
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Be it further resolved that item I. be added addressing adopted children as follows: I, In case of adoptive
children, heterosexual adopting parent (s) shall have legal birth certificate on hand before baptism can be
2. Synod Resolution # 15-02: Be it resolved that # 741 be amended to read: “During the years the
evangelistic / revival services are given to Districts, the local congregations select speakers and plan the
dates. They may choose to hold an evangelistic or revival service. The local congregations will be
responsible to their selected speakers travel.”
3. Synod Resolution # 15-03: Be it resolved that paragraph 501, of the Book of Order is hereby amended to
say: # 501, The Provincial Treasurer shall work with the Provincial Finance Committee to prepare the
Administration Budget before the Synod convenes. The Provincial Treasurer shall provide members of
the APB and the Provincial Finance Committee with monthly reports of the Province finances. The
Provincial Finance Committee shall consist of the APB President, the Vice President, the APB Secretary,
the Provincial Treasurer, a member of the APB Executive Committee, and one Lay Member of the Alaska
Moravian Church with experience on Finance and Administration.
4. Synod Resolution # 15-04: Be it resolved that the 2015 Alaska Provincial Synod direct, the Alaska
Provincial Board to allocate funds, but not to exceed $350, 000.00 to provide necessary capital to purchase
furnishings needed for the multi-purpose, women and couples dormitory building, and renovation of the
existing Seminary dorm.
Be it further resolved that the 2015 Alaska Provincial Synod direct, the Alaska Provincial Board to allocate
funds, but not to exceed $50, 000. 00 to the Samaritan’s Purse as our Partnership contributor,
Now Therefore, Be it resolved that the 2015 Alaska Provincial Synod direct, the Alaska Province churches
and members to begin to fund raise to minimize the amount needed for these purchases.
5. Synod Resolution # 15-05: Be it resolved that # 14-05 be amended to state that, the evangelistic services
on odd years, for example (2015, 2017, & 2019) will be appointed by the Evangelistic committee then in
even years, revival services are planned and set by Districts.
6. Synod Resolution # 15-06: Be it resolved that the Alaska Moravian Church Synod, raise the Youth
Assessment to $ 500.00 per Youth Group and, Be it further resolved that the Alaska Moravian Church
Synod, raise the Christian Education Assessment to $ 750.00 per congregation.
2014 SYNOD RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. Synod Recommendation # 1: That there be one annual Pastor’s and Elder’s Retreat held in Bethel, AK and each
District hold their own additional conference per year.
2. Synod Recommendation # 2: That we make prayer a priority in the Alaska Moravian Church congregations as it is
shared in the book of Hebrews 10:25-26 by resurrecting our Wednesday Night Prayer Services, encourage all
Moravians to attend.
3. Synod Recommendation # 3: That Synod appoint the alternate for traveling Evangelist due to the current
appointee’s health issues.
4. Synod Recommendation # 4: That some villages in other Districts to fulfill the 2014 Evangelism services before
the end of spring 2015: (3) in Tundra District villages – (2) in Up-River District villages – (2) in East Coast District
villages – (4) in Togiak District villages.
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5. Synod Recommendation # 5: That assigned Districts fulfill their 2014 Gospel Team travel following the rotating
chart after the Evangelism services before end of spring 2015.
6. Synod Recommendation # 6: That each church began to bring a Youth member or Youth Group leader to Synod
beginning next year.
7. Synod Recommendation # 7: That trainings, retreats and workshops that AMC provides began to include Youth
and Youth leaders ie: (Sunday School teachers / leaders as well as Young People leaders.).
8. Synod Recommendation # 8: Re-visit the date for Youth Council meetings so that more Youth from other Districts
can participate. The current date of two weeks before Synod conflicts with the school events allowing the attendance to
9. Synod Recommendation # 9: Encourage each Pastor to check and make sure that Youth Group is meeting. It has
been reported that many Youth Groups are not actively meeting this year.
Appreciation address: We thank sisters: Sophie John, Ella Kinegak, Mary Wilcox, and Tiona Conrad for cooking and
working in the kitchen and keeping us well fed. The Bethel Moravian Church and its leadership are thanked and
appreciated for the use of the church building and the Fellowship Hall. All the Bethel and village people who donated
and brought food to the Synod and Bethel folks who opened their homes for hospitality and Pastor Tom Conrad taking
time to drive the church van. Well done Seminary Students for all your hard work in helping out to make things easier
and faster for us. Also for those we may have forgotten to mention.
May God richly bless you all!
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News from Lori's Parents
19 April 2003In this update:
Lori's Weekend Visit
At the end of March Lori was visited together by Marie Manrique, a human rights activist, and the Rev. Dr. William J. Nottingham of the Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis and the Christian Church-Disciples of Christ. Lori was grateful and thrilled by these "whole weekend" visits. They spent their time discussing numerous subjects, including the war in Iraq, and each has written an article. Marie Manrique's article, "Experiencing the Effects and Resolving the Past in Perú: Reflections on a visit to Lori Berenson" was distributed by Rights Action. The Rev. Dr. Nottingham's article "Whom Would Jesus Bomb?" was published by NUVO News (Indianapolis). Lori's article "No More War! No More Impunity!" appeared on her Spanish Website www.lorilibre.org and was distributed to human rights groups throughout Latin America. Over 90% of the Peruvian population was against the coalition invasion of Iraq and Lori was very upset that this situation could not have been resolved without violence.
Lori's Spanish Website Surprisingly Given Citation of Distinction in Perú!!!!
Although some of the heavily biased Peruvian media tried to trash the new www.lorilibre.org Website when it was launched last month, we were quite surprised to learn recently that Lori's Spanish Website was given a "Citation of Distinction" from the Peruvian internet organization Adonde. We wish to express our thanks to Adonde for this honor. Congratulations go to Webmasters JP in Ecuador and Ken in Atlanta for their great work! For those of you who speak Spanish, Adonde is an excellent resource for information. The URL is www.adonde.com.


Jesus ministry was set in a time when a “disciple” was a learner who would uproot himself to follow his chosen teacher. The disciple chose to follow a teacher because he knew who the teacher was, and knew that this particular teacher was one worth following. That being said, before we can follow Christ, we surely must know who He is, which then allows us to correctly see Him as a teacher worth following.
Colossians 1:15-16 – He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities.
What does it mean to be born of a father? A father does not create a child; rather, the material for making the child is taken from the father and mother, and thus the child is born of his parents rather than being created by his parents. All of the material that composes the child is taken from his parents. Paul speaks of Christ being the firstborn to separate Christ from creation, because, while God created us – we are the work of His hands, Christ is of God. That is to say, Christ and God are same.
The passage further connects God and Christ when it indicates that it is by Christ that God performed His act of creation. Here we also see further illustration of our purpose: the passage tells us that it is “for Him” that all things were created. Verses 15 and 16 connect Christ to God by showing us that Christ and God are same (He is firstborn) and that Christ shares in the glory of God that we were created to magnify (all things were created through Him and for Him).
Colossians 1:17-20- And He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent. For in Him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of His cross.
Laminin is a special kind of protein in our bodies. It is known as the “cellular adhesion molecule.” Literally, that means that Laminin is what holds our bodies together.
Molecular biology tells us that our bodies are held together by a molecule that bears the shape of the cross of our Lord, Jesus Christ. We are literally marked by the cross of Christ.
Verse 18 tells us that Christ is the head of the body*. He is the beginning (alpha α), and firstborn from the dead. Paul sets a differentiation between Christ being firstborn of God and from the dead – while being of God connects Him to God, being from dead separates Him from death, further enforcing the divine nature of Christ. Finally, verse 18 says that Christ is preeminent. Seven times in 4 verses Paul enforces the first-ness of Christ. He takes great care to emphasize Christ’s superiority as one worthy of worship, equal to God.
Two parts of the nature of God are that He is holy and He is just. Because of these qualities, we know that sin and God are completely incapable of coexistence; because He is holy, where He is sin cannot be also, and because He is just, He must punish sin. As a result of the fall, we reside in a state of existence where we are, by nature, sinful. Because of that, our nature renders us incapable of approaching God – the holy nature of His spirit cannot reside in us. Christ is, according to Colossians 1:19, one in whom the spirit of God is not only capable of residing, but pleased to do so. When we come into Christ (through faith) and His atonement covers our broken nature (because of our faith), we become the righteousness of Christ**, thus transforming us into beings in whom the spirit of God can dwell and setting us on a path of transformation into beings in whom God spirit will be pleased to dwell. The atonement of Christ brings our spirits back into the intimate communion with the spirit of God that I believe man experienced at his creation, before the fall. Now we see a true picture of reconciliation: God and sin are incapable of coexistence, but God’s son, who is same with God, became an atoning intermediary who settles our feud with the spirit of God.
*Ephesians 2:11-22- Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands – remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who one were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in His flesh the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that He might create in Himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility. And He came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near. For through Him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord. In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
**2 Corinthians 5:21 – For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.


God's revolution: World Youth Day and other Cologne talks
It's August, 2005. The newly elected Benedict XVI returns to his homeland, Germany, for World Youth Day-the spectacular event created by his popular predecessor, Pope John Paul II. All eyes are on the German pope in Cologne. "Will he relate to young people as John Paul II did?"
The zealous loving welcome of more than a million young people provides the answer. Benedict XVI pulls it off-in his own way, with his own style, without missing a beat. His encounters with young people are magical, even mystical. His message--a straightforward presentation of the Christian faith aimed at answering the perennial questions of young people: Who am I? Where am I going? Is there Someone who can help? How can I make a difference in the world?
Benedict XVI's answers to these questions all point to Jesus Christ and his teaching. He urges young people not to think that following Jesus requires abandoning anything of real worth. "Christ takes from you nothing that is beautiful and great," he declares. He dares young people to become "radicals"-to be part of "God's revolution." To commit themselves without reservation to Jesus Christ.
|Grouped Work ID||934301e9-cf9d-1830-e2b9-da8e93bcab56|
|Grouping Title||god s revolution world youth day and other cologne talks|
|Last Grouping Update||2019-01-01 01:10:20AM|
|Last Indexed||2020-01-23 04:42:33AM|
|author||Benedict XVI, Pope, 1927-|
|available_at_englewood||Englewood Public Library|
|owning_library_englewood||Englewood Public Library|
|owning_location_englewood||Englewood Public Library|
Spiritual life -- Catholic Church
|title_display||God's revolution : World Youth Day and other Cologne talks|
|title_full||God's revolution : World Youth Day and other Cologne talks / Pope Benedict XVI|
|title_sub||World Youth Day and other Cologne talks|


Just in time for the church’s 106th annual country fair, the Rev. Robert M. Ross, has accepted the call to join Weston’s Emmanuel Episcopal Church as its new rector. He starts Monday, Aug. 27.
Rev. Ross succeeds the Rev. David Feyrer, who retired from Emmanuel in 2010, after eight years of service to the church. The Rev. Robert Hoffman served as Emmanuel’s interim rector after Rev. Feyrer.
Rev. Ross, 61, recently served as chaplain at the Wooster School in Danbury and part-time at St. Matthew’s Church in Wilton.
He has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Harvard University’s extension program and a master’s degree in divinity from the Virginia Theological Seminary.
Rev. Ross was the rector for several years at St. Peter’s Church in Osterville, Mass., on Cape Cod, where he was also a chaplain for the local fire department. He then served as rector at Trinity Parish in Menlo Park, Calif.
In 2005, Rev. Ross and his wife, Sarah, moved to Connecticut where he became chaplain at the Wooster School.
The appointment of Rev. Ross ends Emmanuel’s nearly two-year long search for a new rector.
A parish search committee for a new rector was formed in November 2010, and in March 2012, the committee officially opened the position up to Episcopal clergy job boards, according to David Juneau, the senior warden at Emmanuel.
Applicants sent their information to the diocese, and in April the diocese presented the search committee with a list of candidates from several regions of the U.S. who expressed interest.
The search committee conducted interviews both in person and over Skype, and then presented a short list to the Emmanuel vestry board, who then conducted more interviews with the shorter list of candidates.
“After much prayer and thought and coordination with the diocese of Connecticut, we finally decided to ‘call’ the Rev. Rob Ross to Emmanuel,” said Mr. Juneau.
Rev. Ross has a wide variety of interests and is a man who is used to wearing “many hats.”
He enjoys tennis and likes to play, collect and repair guitars.
Born in Winchester, Mass., into a Roman Catholic family, Rev. Ross was interested in religion as a young boy, but not so much with the Catholic church. A friend brought him to a local Episcopal Church where the youth group listened to music and that appealed to him, so he converted to the Episcopalian faith. “The music spoke to me in my natural language,” Rev. Ross said in a recent interview.
When he met his wife, Sarah, they discussed the possibility of him being a priest on their very first date, which he still finds amusing.
It was a long process for him to become ordained in the Episcopal Church and he spent a year working as a youth minister before a rector would sponsor him. After he was sponsored, he went to the Virginia Seminary. While there, the couple’s first child, Benjamin, was born, followed two years later by the couple’s second son, Matthew.
When Rev. Ross got called to the Wooster School in Danbury, he said he really got to use his talents, not only as the school’s chaplain but also by teaching music and religion and public policy courses.
“I fell in love with Wooster, it’s a beautiful campus and I loved the kids,” Rev. Ross said.
He then decided to leave academic life and return to parish ministry. After meeting with the search committee members at Emmanuel he felt it was “a great fit.”
Although Rev. Ross lives in New Milford, he said he will be on call at Emmanuel 24/7 and he looks forward to Emmanuel’s upcoming country fair on Saturday, Sept. 15.
“One of my goals at Emmanuel will be to rebuild the youth program. I’m ready to move forward,” he said.
Mr. Juneau said Bishop Curry of the diocese gave Rev. Ross’s call his blessing. “This coming together is the result of much prayer and discernment by many people: The Emmanuel parish as a whole, the bishops and diocesan leadership for priests in transition, and finally the many qualified candidates we were fortunate to meet. Ultimately, we felt strongly that our next rector should be Rob Ross,” Mr. Juneau said.


8:00 AM - Old Goa walk starts at Viceroy's Arch
The Viceroy’s Arch erected in 1599 by Viceroy Francisco da Gama was once the main street for entering Old Goa. It was built as a memorial to the achievements of Vasco da Gama, the famous explorer. Incidentally Franciso was the great grand son of Vasco de Gama!
St Catherine Chapel
Next in this Old Goa walk, we will visit St Catherine Chapel a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built by Alfanso De Albuquerque in 1510 when he defeated the local Muslim ruler Adil Shah on St. Catherine’s Day that is 25th November 1510. The Chapel has rectangular window panes of the Old Portuguese style dressed in mica shells.
St. Francis of Assisi
Eight Portuguese Franciscan friars landed in Goa in 1517 and established the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. The Church follows a mixed construction style. Tuscan order has been applied for the exteriors, while the main altar has been built in rich Baroque style with Corinthian features.
Built in Manueline style, Se Cathedral was built to showcase the Portuguese’s victory over an invading Muslim army in the early 16th century. The day of that victory is celebrated as the Feast of Saint Catherine. In 20th century, the Pope Pius XII presented the honorary ‘Golden Rose’ to the cathedral, which is now placed on the tomb of Saint. Francis Xavier, inside the cathedral..
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the highlight of this Old Goa walk. It is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in India. It holds the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier who along with St. Ignatius Loyola has founded the Society of Jesus. The Blessed Sacrament was earlier kept on the main altar under the statue of St Ignatius and now is preserved in a gold tabernacle.
St Augustine Tower
St Augustine’s tower was built in 1600. It is one of the four towers of St. Augustine Church that once stood at the site. The Tower was meant to serve as a belfry and the Church had eight richly adorned chapels & four altars and a convent with numerous cells.
Noon- Old Goa walk ends at Rosary Church
Rosary church is the oldest surviving church in Goa. Afonso de Albuquerque, while fighting the Islamic army of Deccan Sultanate, took a vow to build this church as a token of gratitude to Our Lady of Victory. Its striking features are high altitude windows and round towers which makes it look like a fortress.
We did the rediscover grandeur of old Goa walk and it was simply great. We had a very knowledgeable guide who helped us explain how Velha Goa was one of the best cities to live in the world in 16th century. The churches were incredibly beautiful and we also had some delicious Goan refreshments with our friendly and immensely knowledgeable guide. Thank you so much
It was a fantastic walk through old Goa. Ram picked us up from the vice Roy arch from where the Portuguese had entered Goa! It was lovely to be taken back 500 years back when old Goa was a global city. We loved the guidance of Ram as he was very knowledgeable and I was able to appreciate all the churches we saw much more in his company. Highly recommended


Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Twilight is a series of books and movies written by Stephenie Meyer. She is a gifted author, which is obvious simply by the demand for her books. If they were written poorly I doubt any one would be drawn to a story about vampires.
What concerns me is how this story has resonated in the church. And not just among adults. Many of those that watch this story are far younger (8, 9 and 10) than the PG-13 rating suggests should see it. Parents are already showing a lack of discernment that even the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) understands - these movies are not for children.
Beyond that though, parents are constant teachers. Everything we do teaches our children. We have a responsibility to them and more importantly to God to raise our children in their fear and submission of our Lord; by God's grace seeing them trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior. Even after they have confessed Jesus as Lord, we have a responsibility to help them to mature in Christ, knowing how to make wise and godly decisions. I am not convinced that Meyer's story does anything to promote this kind of spiritual maturity and, worse yet, it may actually be counterproductive to the things that we are teaching our children about who God is, His love and the gospel.
Understand, in Christ we are free...free indeed. But just because something is permissible does not mean that it is good - “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be enslaved by anything." (see The Apostle Paul 1 Corinthians 6:12)
There are many troubling things in the series. Let me list three for you. 1) Paints an un-biblical view of love. John Lewinski makes several observations in an article (here). A love that leads to lying, disobedience, manipulation and more. Certainly not the kind of Biblical love that we find in 1 Corinthians 13 or commanded in Ephesians 5 (Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the church; wives submit to your husbands as unto the Lord).
2) Deep mormon world view. The author is a mormon. And her writing is no doubt supported by her theological beliefs. A Touchstone Article (here) says this: "Edward..., though described many times as an “angel” and though he has many of the characteristics of Joseph Smith, Jr., is also, as the First Son of the Cullen Father and Bella’s means to joining this Holy Family, the Christ figure of the story. His signature ability to enter into all minds (even Bella’s in the end) indicates his identity as the Logos that is the pre-existent “cohesion of all things” (Col. 1:17)." For a biblically astute adult this kind of allegory may not be problematic but for a child or teen who is often thrown by the wind of various doctrines and beliefs, something even this subtle could do great harm to their own understanding and faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He goes on to say further "In some streams of Mormon tradition, Adam is, in fact, the finite God of earth (or the Archangel Michael), and Eve is his celestial wife from another planet. The Fall and expulsion from Paradise, according to this view, were necessary in order for Adam and Eve to marry and reproduce. “Celestial marriage” is a core ordinance for Mormon exaltation (salvation), and without the “Fall,” man could not take this important step in his progression from mortality to post-mortal life as a god in the Celestial Kingdom. This is a remarkable departure from orthodox, creedal Christianity with respect to sexuality and understanding how human beings relate to God." Meyer has no desire to promote the biblical account of creation, fall, redemption and Christ. The series says undercuts what our children have been learning in Sunday school.
3) The Bible says this: 1 Corinthians 10:6 says, 6 Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did. 1 Corinthians 15:33 adds "Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” Or Colossians 3 says "5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. 6 On account of these the wrath of God is coming." 1 Thessalonians 5:22 - 22 Abstain from every form of evil. 3 John - 11 Beloved, do not imitate evil but imitate good. AND 2 John - 10 If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting" That is challenging - Don't bring it into your house - what is it - False teaching.
I believe that God is sovereign and that God will protect my daughters. But I can't help but wonder what I might be doing to undermine what God wants for them. Even something as subtle as what movies they watch or what books they read can be devastating to their understanding of the gospel. We have a responsibility as parents to direct our children to fear the Lord.
I love my daughters and their growing faith enough to say to them "O be careful little eyes what you see, o be careful little eyes what you see, for the Father up above is looking down in love, O be careful little eyes what you see."
Sunday, April 25, 2010
David Barton made this comment recently. "Respect the Office...Yes. Respect the man in the office...No I am sorry to say."
I was pondering this today, as I prepare to preach on Hebrews 13:7 - 17. Is this really what God wants us to do when it comes to our elected officials - respect the office not the man. Why don't we also apply that to the church - respect the office of elder but the man. Respect the office of deacon but not the man. What is the determining factor in who we respect and don't? If we simply don't like their decision, don't like their personality, don't like their hair? Do we stand in opposition to governmental authorities because they are antagonistic to God or simply because they are sinners? Obama is a sinner...but so I am I.
Romans 13 says that the authorities have been placed their by God. Not just the office but the man. God knows what He is doing (even though at times I think I know better...I don't). Did Paul respect the office or the man when we went before Agrippa or the leaders of Rome. Titus 3:1 Remind us to be submissive to rulers and authorities and to speak evil of no one (including Obama right?). He then gives us our motivation...because we were once like them...LOST.
I understand the frustration directed at our government. I am not pleased with the policies, decisions and directions of our president. But I have been convicted today as I read a statement that I probably used to say. A statement that made me feel (self) righteous. A statement that many Christians today are saying AMEN to. I am just not sure that it measures up to scripture.
Remember, our conflict is not against flesh and blood but against principalities of darkness. Respecting the man (and the office) does not mean we agree with everything the man does. It does not mean that we set aside our convictions. It does not mean that we are sellouts. What does it mean - that as I we respect and submit to him, we are demonstrating our submission to a much higher authority. A higher authority that one day even a president of the United States will bow to in honor. Only then, we won't be up in arms at the homage paid to a world leader. We will rejoice that every knee (including Obama) is bowing to the feet of King Jesus.


From 2000-2008, we joined with a foundation in Manila and we are very grateful for the excellent cooperation we had with them over the years, until it became possible for us to realize Rise Above Foundation Cebu, Inc., which became an independent foundation in Cebu on July 4th, 2008. Through the pages under Projects you will read about the steady progress in our work and through viewing the photos in the Photo Gallery, you can follow us through the exciting years till today.
Flemming and Elisabet Hansen
We came to Cebu in November 2000, upon an invitation, and we are so thankful we made that decision. It has taken us through years of challenges and growth, and when we were able to start our own Cebu based Rise Above Foundation in 2008, it was a dream come true.Flemming and I, Elisabet, come from Denmark and Norway, and we have 40 years of experience in missionary and humanitarian work. Our desire since we were young was to follow God and bring His love to needy people of this world. It has been an exciting life, working in 7 countries and visiting many more bringing humanitarian help to people of East Europe.To see the mission grow and take form through many different projects has been very fulfilling for us, and we see ourselves living and working here in Cebu for many years still.
Jovita Marie and Ireneo Gabriel Tangalin
Gabriel and Marie play a very important part in our Rise Above Team, and have been on board since 2001. Gabriel is a machinist by profession, but decided to be a missionary already in his 20′s. Through 30 years they have worked as full time missionaries bringing the gospel and helping people here in the Philippines as well as in Thailand.Gabriel is a man of many talents, and apart from bringing hope and encouragement to people through the sharing of God’s Word, he oversees all the building and renovation work, runs the technical aspect of our dental missions and has built all our mobile dental equipment. He is an essential part of our team, as he keeps all the practical aspects of our work running smoothly.Marie has been working with children through all these years, so it is natural for her to oversee the child minding at our Family Care Center. The mothers of these children have partaken in the training in bag-making, so Marie is one of the overseers of this livelihood program. She also oversees the food program, seeing to it that over 500 children are getting a good and nutritious meal every Wednesday.In our sponsorship for education program, she sees to it that 26 children from Guadalupe get all their educational materials and uniforms year after year, and that they get lunch and 2 snacks daily while in school. The children have to reach a certain level to continue to receive the sponsorship, so she keeps an eye on their achievements, and has meetings with their mothers if their grades are not up to par.
Francoise (Abi) Biard from Paris, France
Francoise (Abi) joined the team in August 2008. Previous to that, she worked with a humanitarian team in Senegal, West Africa for 9 years and she has 40 years experience of missionary life and a volunteer in more than 20 different countries! She is very happy to have come and live with such gentle people as the Filipinos and to be able to contribute in all the projects of Rise Above Foundation. Abi is one of those creative people that can “make something out of nothing”. Her artistic and decorative sense is fully used as she is now co-heading the bag-making project together with Marie. She enthusiastically shares her ideas with the women, and together they come up with beautiful designs that are much appreciated among the international and professional community here in Cebu. She shares her ideas freely and is a great promoter of the RecyBags on Facebook –http://www.facebook.com/RecyBagsCebu. Her hope is that the RecyBags project will become a cooperative, where the women has the opportunity of getting steady work and then promote the bags both locally and internationally.Our desire is to help poor families rise above poverty through for example the livelihood program of bag-making, so it brings a lot of happiness and fulfillment for Abi that she through this program is able to achieve her dreams.
Suzy is the daughter of Elisabet and Flemming Hansen, and decided to work alongside them after she completed her Senior High. She is a musician and sings beautifully, a gift she is using in her ministry. She shares motivational and Bible Classes regularly with the many friends she has in Cebu City and in her visits she shares lessons of faith and hope with them. She promotes the “Activated”, a motivational magazine that promotes faith in God and that gives answers to many of life’s questions. She moved to China for 16 months where she taught English, but has now returned to Cebu where she works full time at the Rise Above office with the volunteer/internship program.


To become a member of Sandy Springs Presbyterian Church, you don’t need to have a perfect life or agree with the church leaders about every point of doctrine. Instead, we just ask you to profess a genuine faith in Christ by affirming these four questions before God and the congregation:
- Do you believe the Bible, consisting of the Old and New Testaments, to be the Word of God, and its doctrine of salvation to be the perfect and only true doctrine of salvation?
- Do you confess that because of your sinfulness you abhor and humble yourself before God, and that you trust for salvation not in yourself but in Jesus Christ alone?
- Do you acknowledge Jesus Christ as your sovereign Lord and do you promise, in reliance on the grace of God, to serve him with all that is in you, to forsake the world, to mortify your old nature, and to lead a godly life?
- Do you agree to submit in the Lord to the government of this church and, in case you should be found delinquent in doctrine or life, to heed its discipline?
The elders will want to interview you beforehand, to be sure that you can give an informed and conscientious “yes” to all four questions. Usually this follows a short class for inquirers, which covers the basics of the Christian gospel, Christian living, the church, and the meaning of membership.