Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update
Following advice from the UK Government, and the Church of Scotland, All services, events and organisations within Renfrew North are currently suspended, this includes our community coffee bar.
You can keep up with all at Renfrew North below here on our website, watch our video service, subscribe to our e-mail Newsletter, or listen to our weekly podcast, also available on the church’s telephone system at 0141 530 1308 (Option 3)
Renfrew North is open for private prayer on Saturday Mornings between 10am and 12 noon, following new social distancing and hygiene procedures
We will continue to update both our website and social media accounts with information.
Our website was last updated on 28 July 2020
Welcome to Renfrew North
We are a welcoming, inclusive, witnessing Christian community, part of the Church of Scotland, and here to serve the Renfrew community. Please browse the website, where you will find details of our regular worship, as well as contacts for all of the organisations that meet here. From the Guild, to Junior Church, Guides, Brownies, Boys’ Brigade, Men’s Club, Forget Me Not cafe, Community Coffee bar and much more, you will find opportunities to meet other people and experience some of the life-affirming love that Jesus offers through his people here at Renfrew North.
There are also contact names for the different areas of church life if you have a particular question. Do contact me if you wish to discuss any of the events of life such as baptisms, weddings and funerals, as well as living life to the full as a follower of Jesus Christ.
Thank you for finding us here, and I look forward to meeting you in person.
Rev Philip Wallace
Minister, Renfrew North Parish Church
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The word "Gospel" is a word that comes from the Old English "god-spel" which means "good news".
The Gospel is indeed good news, but first we need to hear the bad news. The bad news is that God is holy, and not just holy, but infinitely holy and good.
This is bad news because we are not.
Sin, which is all those bad things we do in our rebellion against God that God doesn't like, separates us from Him. And since God is infinitely holy, our sin causes us to be infinitely separated from Him too, something the Bible calls "spiritual death", or simply "death".
We know that nobody is perfect, and the Bible tells us that all have sinned, which means that we are all infinitely separated from our Holy God and Creator as a result of our sin. Physically dying in that state causes that state of separation to be permanent, something most people refer to as "going to hell". It is important to understand that once you enter this state, it is eternal, there is absolutely no getting out of it.
If we are spiritually dead, the question that inevitably arises is "What can a dead person do?" How can we, being dead, remedy our situation? Unfortunately, there is absolutely nothing you can do to "make up" for your sin. Our sin is an infinite offense against God because God is infinitely holy, and since we ourselves are finite beings, we cannot make that infinite payment of justice we owe God. This is why the state is eternal if it is not remedied in life. No amount of good works, charity, kindness to others, or anything else will ever be enough to make up for your sin and earn your justification before God. Much like how no amount of charity, or good works would ever be enough to cause a judge to forgive a murderer. That would not be justice, and since God is also perfectly just, He cannot simply forgive people who have broken His holy law. How would you feel if that murderer had murdered your family, and the judge just let him free? What if the murderer promised to "never do it again"? Would you think it fair and just if he was forgiven by the judge then? So you see, just doing good things, and promising to never do bad things again is simply not enough to be forgiven. Justice must be served.
And this is where the good news comes in. The good news is that Jesus Christ, the unique Son of God, who was born of a virgin and lived a perfect life on Earth, fulfilling the law of God perfectly, and never sinning, died on the cross to pay the penalty of sin for those who place their trust in Him. On the cross, Jesus paid the full penalty for the sin of His people, receiving the full punishment that we sinners deserve. He then died and resurrected on the third day to proclaim His victory over sin and death. For those who fully place their trust in Christ, and not in their own works, deeds or anything else, all sins are paid for in full and their standing before God is made completely right. And not just that, because salvation is entirely His work, He also promises that nobody can snatch us out of His hand, because "He who started a good work in you, will see to its perfection". God offers salvation in no other way, the only way to the Father is through Jesus Christ, and there is salvation in no other name. No institution, church, religion, denomination, pastor, priest, preacher, religious leader, or anything or anyone else can offer salvation. There is salvation only in Christ.
When God saves a sinner, He grants them the gift of faith, which is that full trust in the redeeming work of Christ on the cross. He grants repentance, which is the turning away from sin and turning to God, so that sin you once loved you will now hate, and it will be replaced by a burning desire to seek holiness, righteous living, for the glory of your God and Savior alone. You will have a deep hunger for His Word, to know Him and His will for you better. All these supernatural changes to your heart will produce the fruit of repentance: holy living. Not perfect living, but a continuous conforming to the image of Christ, a daily growth in maturity and holiness, a process called "sanctification". And as Jesus said "unless you repent, you will all likewise perish". God does not grant salvation without repentance. And repentance necessarily produces holiness.
God calls all men to repent. Therefore, obey His command and repent. Believe that Jesus, the unique Son of God, and second person of the Trinity (one God, 3 persons) died for your sins and rose on the third day. Trust only in Christ for your salvation, and not your religion, your works, or your ancestry (your parents, your culture, your lineage). There is salvation in no other. Repent and believe, and trust only in Him, and be saved!
God then calls us to test ourselves, to make sure that indeed we have been saved. Check your attitude toward sin, toward your own sin. If you are not repulsed by it, and fighting it as though your very soul depends on it, then seek the Lord and repent, eternity is not something you want to gamble with. Repent and believe... today is the day of salvation.


Revolutionary War Historical Article
Christmas in the 17th and 18th Centuries
By Donald N. Moran
Editor's Note: This article was reprinted from the December 2001 Edition of the Liberty Tree Newsletter
In 17th and early 18th century Colonial America, a Christmas celebration did not resemble the festivities that we are familiar with today. Christmas was considered the first day in a season of celebration, a season which would last, in some areas, until the end of January. The Christmas Advent season consisted of December 25th, The Nativity of Jesus; December 27th, The Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist (celebrated by the Masons); January 1st, The Circumcision of Jesus; January 6th, The Epiphany of Jesus (The they twelfth day of Christmas); and February 2nd, the Purification of the Virgin. Christmas celebrations varied throughout the colonies, from the Puritans in New England who did not celebrate Christmas at all, to the Southern Anglicans whose revelries most closely match modern Christmas celebrations.
The Puritans of New England outlawed Christmas until the mid-19th century. In the early part of the 16th century, the Puritans in England, under Oliver Cromwell, outlawed the celebration of Christmas, calling it "Popish" (Roman Catholic) and considering the secular celebration a continuation of pagan beliefs. The Puritans in Massachusetts and other parts of New England held on to these beliefs.
In 1659, a law was enacted in Massachusetts to punish anyone who " . . . is found observing, by abstinence from labor, feasting, or any other way, any such days as Christmas day, shall pay for every such with offense five shillings." The immigration of other religious denominations to the colonies saw this attitude in New England, but weren't able to change it until about 150 years ago.
Although Christmas wasn't outlawed outside of New England, several denominations, mostly found in the middle colonies, were opposed to the celebration. In 1749, a visitor among the Quakers in Philadelphia noted that: "Christmas Day. . . The Quakers did not regard this day any more remarkable than other days. Stores were open. . . There was no more baking of bread for the Christmas festival than for other days; and no Christmas porridge on Christmas Eve!"
At first the Presbyterians did not care much for celebrating Christmas, but when they saw most of their members going to the Anglican Church on that day, they also started to have services. Philip Fithian, a Presbyterian missionary working among the Virginia Scotch-Irish in 1775, remarked that: "Christmas Morning - Not a Gun is heard Not a Shout - No company or Cabal assembled - To Day is like other Days every Way calme & temperate."
To the Anglicans, Roman Catholics and Lutherans, the Christmas season was embraced and celebrated mainly by the Church of England and the Roman Catholics, and primarily in the southern colonies. (One exception is the Dutch in New York who celebrated Christmas with religious services.)
The celebration of the Christmas season in the southern colonies consisted of parties, hunts, visiting, feasts and church services. Christmas decorations generally consisted of holly and ivy strung throughout the house, with a sprig of mistletoe prominently displayed. A great effort was made to decorate the churches with laurel, holly, and other garlands.
The traditional feast varied from household to household (depending on how wealthy the family was) but generally, consisted of wines, rum punches, hams, beef, goose, turkey, oysters, mincemeat pies, and various other treats. The season was considered a grown-up celebration, but presents would generally be given to children. Irena Chalmers notes that in 1759, that George Washington gave the following presents to his children: a bird on Bellows; a Cuckoo; a Turnabout Parrot; a Grocers Shop; an Aviary; a Prussian Dragoon; a Man Smoking; a Tunbridge Tea Set; 3 Neat Books, a Tea Chest. A straw parchment box with a glass and a neat dress'd wax baby. Southern families usually supplied rum and presents (often candy) to their slaves on the first of the year.
Traditional symbols of the American colonial Christmas did not resemble our modern Christmas celebration. The Christmas tree originated in Germany in the 16th century, but did not gain popularity in America until after 1842 when it was introduced in Williamsburg.
Life on the American colonial frontier was, as it would be expected, quite different from the well established east coast.
The frontier at that time was heavily populated with the Scotch-Irish. They organized their lives by the events of the Christian calendar, but differed greatly from the rest of British America. For reasons unknown to us, they seemed to have preserved some of the ancient Christian rituals which had lingered along the border lands between England and Scotland decades after they were abandoned in other regions of the British Isles.
Our frontier people seemed to have kept a day which they called "Old Christmas", on January 6th. On that day, even in the poorest of homes, feasts were common, and they lit bonfires that night. They also celebrated by continual discharging of their muskets. This had been the custom in the British borderlands. On the Southern frontier some of these customs continued to the 20th century. Visitors to Appalachia and the highlands of North Carolina found the practice of "Old Christmas" with bonfires and the firing of guns, along with fireworks still exist.
One visitor noted: "In some parts of this country it is the custom to observe what is known as 'Old Christmas' ". Opinion varies as to the date: Some believe it is the 5th and some the 6th of January. This day is believed by these people who keep it to be the real date of the birth of Jesus. They say the Christmas we observe is a "manmade" Christmas."
The first Christmas card did not appear until about 1846 in England.
Christmas Carols were sung during the holidays, but most of the popular carols of today had not been written before the late 1700's.
The most enduring hymn that was popular in colonial America was Joy to the World, written by Isaac Watts of Virginia during the 1760s.


Through the generous support of Trinity Church members, we have expanded our Food Pantry. Food insecurity is a growing concern in this area. Our new Food Pantry allows us to serve clients on a walk-in basis, five days a week!
Since 1993, the Storehouse has been helping needy families with clothing and household goods. Clothing for every member of the family is available and families can shop up to three times each calendar year.
If you are looking for a place to get plugged in and make a difference for the Lord, TOC is for you! We have opportunities to serve in many areas in our ministry and we would love to have you on our team.
Updated Today Stay Up-To-Date
You can click on the link below to check out our blog. We post inspirational stories, current needs, and serving opportunities. This is the best way to keep informed about what is going on at The Outreach Center
Diversify your usual life
God is doing amazing things through the Trinity Outreach Center! We are expanding services and partnering with other churches and agencies as we reach out into our community. Our mission is to connect people with God while helping them with the problems of everyday living. Many come to us during the worst time in their lives. We offer support, encouragement, and most importantly, hope.
We sponsor and support many outreach ministries throughout the year, such as our annual Christmas Blessing and Missions Week events. In addition we offer a year round food pantry and clothing ministry. Give us a call to see how you can become involved!
Join us in our efforts!


It is Parker's first Easter. We are so excited to share such a special day with him. We went to the Easter service at our church last night. Parker had been pretty cranky all day so we weren't sure how he was going to behave. He must have liked the windows open and lights up because he did great!
We gave him a bath when we got home and dressed him in his Easter jammies. We then read the Easter story from his children's Bible as he has his bedtime bottle. So many holidays can get over-shadowed by the commercialized stuff. I always said I didn't want to buy (literally) into that, but its hard not to when you have a little one of your own. I think we will always put a focus on the real meaning of Easter and still let him enjoy some of the commercial fanfare.
He is Risen! We will always recognize and praise that. It is because of this that we can live and enjoy life.
I had to take some fun pictures of P in his jammies. The green rug in his room felt like the perfect backdrop (is kind of looks like grass!) I must thank Auntie Julie for the fun hand-me down! I hope you all have a fabulous day celebrating!


If we walk in the Light
as He Himself is in the Light,
we have fellowship with one another...
1 John 1:7a
Community begins with real relationships. We believe real relationships begin with Jesus Christ.
Have you met Jesus personally?
Are you attracted to Him, but not sure about the Church?
Do you long for deeper relationships with people, but are not certain they can exist in the world in which we live?
Come visit with us. We are committed to pursuing community through worship, nurture, and mission. We desire to develop relationships that are deep and long-lasting. We are family!
The mission of Christ Chapel is to be a visible expression of the love of Jesus in our local community and in the world at large. We are committed to a life together of worshiping God, nurturing others, and reaching out to those who don't yet know God personally. We are submitted to the Lordship of Jesus Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and shaped by the authority of the Bible.
We believe that understanding and applying God's Word is essential to a vital Christian life; therefore, we emphasize systematic Bible study and teaching in our meetings. Knowing what God has said and understanding why He said it provides the basis for all that we believe, and forms our fundamental values. These values are summarized by three concepts: Worship, Nurture, and Mission.
Sunday School: Every Sunday from 9:30 - 10:20 a.m. (September through May)
Summer Fellowship 1/2 Hour: Every Sunday from 9:50 - 10:20 (June through August)
Corporate Worship: Every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. (Also Live Streamed at: https://www.facebook.com/ChristChapelKnox )
Christ Chapel is located on the corner of 16th and Highland in the Fort Sanders area (map).
Come, join us!
Upcoming Events @ Christ Chapel
1538 Highland Avenue, 37916
Current Teaching Series
This winter, and spring, we will continue to work our way through the book of Matthew. We will explore the ministry and teachings of Jesus as He proclaims timeless truth about the kingdom of God in contrast to the kingdoms of the world. As we study together, we will encourage one another to "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness."
As always, our study is intended to enable us to grow closer to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and live lives that are pleasing in His sight. Come join us as we grow and encourage one another in holiness and truth!


Thanks in advance. The Medal of St. Benedict has a special power at the hour of one’s death. THE POWER AND EFFECTS OF THE MEDALNo particular prayers are prescribed, for the very wearing and use of the medal is considered a âsilent prayerâ to God to grant us,through the merits of St. Benedict, the favor of protection we request. My daughter had given me a medal from Rome, and it had been missing for 3 years. To you I have recourse in the dangers that dailysurround me. St. Benedict medals of various types have been in use ever since, but the medal in its current form, known as the Jubilee medal, was not struck until 1880, when it was created to honor the 1,400th anniversary of St. Benedict’s birth. The St. Benedict medal is very powerful and, besides, it is intself an exorcism -- it wards off any and all evils that may invade your property. I have not written out my story yet, but I wanted to mention that it is a common practice for Catholics to bury St. Benedict's medals in the 4 corners of the house in the Earth. Benedict ~ Pray for us!+ Changes made by I. 40 minutes after the gift of St Benedict, I found the necklace with the medal!!! This small beautiful crucifix features a sunburst behind Jesus and detailed images on all 4 corners. The Cross of Eternal Salvation On the face of the medal is the image of Saint Benedict.In his right hand he holds the cross, the Christian's symbol of salvation. We moved to a new home in a new town 7 years ago. Shortly after moving here, my husband dug up a somewhat older version of the EXACT same statue, right our property line. One message said that we should make up four sets of sacramentals blessed by a priest. PRAYER: Approved Blessing of the Medal of St. Benedict(Copy and paste this prayer and give it to your parish priest to say, be sure to have a holy water vile handy for the last step of theprayer)Medals of Saint Benedict are sacramentals that may be blessed legitimately by any priest — not necessarily Benedictine(Instr., 26 Sept. 1964; Can. The world's best quality Saint Benedict Medal collection starting well below $1 each. +St. I hope this is the right forum for this problem. 6 p.m. Four Corners Monument closes at 6:45, and itâs about an hour from Mesa Verdeâs entrance, so leave the park by 5 to get there in time. M. Every Catholic can become an evangelist. On the front of the medal we find St. Benedict holding a Cross in one hand, and the Rule of St. Benedict in the other. Wooden Bead St. Benedict Bracelet SMALL. Is this superstitious?” In order to properly answer this question, we have to … At his sides are the words "Crux S. Patris Benedicti" ("The Cross of the Holy Father Benedict"), and below his feet: "Ex S M Casino MDCCCLXXX" ("From the holy mount of Casino, 1880"). 4. 1168). We have been advised to spray holy water in the corners of each window and doorway. Get one for each member of the family involved/living in the haunted location, need to wear it always such as on a chain aroundthe neck, even in the bath/shower (get the chain blessed too). Amen.”, Copyright 2017-2020 All rights reserved. Our Children had one taped under their cribs,hard to put one around their necks at that tiny and tender age. Your review * Name * Email * Notify me of new posts by email. The Medal of St. Benedict can serve as a constant reminder of the need for us to take up our cross daily and follow âthe true King, Christ the Lord,â and thus learn to âshare in the sufferings of Christ that we may deserve also to share in his kingdom,â as St. Benedict urges us in the prologue of his rule. In his right hand he holds the cross, the Christian symbol of salvation. Almighty God, the boundless source of all good things, we humbly ask that, through the intercession of SaintBenedict, you pour out your blessings + upon these medals. II. [The blessing can now be given by any priest (Instr., 26 Sept. 1964; Can. If not for the medal of Saint Benedict always around my neck since I was a teen, I might have beenphysically attacked or even killed at the hands of demons and evil spirits.It is hard to say, my choices were not the best and being the lead of a musical rock band puts you in potential temptation every otherday. Evil is the cup thou offerest; Drink thou thine own poison.The reverse of the medal bears the image of St. Benedict holding in his right hand the Cross, in the power of which he wrought somany miracles, and in his left hand bearing the Holy Rule, which leads all its followers by the way of the Cross to Eternal Light.On a pedestal to the right of St. Benedict is the poisoned cup, shattered when he made the sign of the cross over it. The St. Benedict medal has several prayers associated with it as identified by the acronyms on both sides. Origin of the Medal of Saint Benedict . The exact origins of the St. Benedict medal are uncertain, although it is said that the first medal was worn by the 11th century Pope, Leo IX, who attributed his miraculous recovery from a snake bite to it. This small beautiful crucifix features a sunburst behind Jesus and detailed images on all 4 corners. Place pepperonis in the 4 corners (5 in each corner) to mimic the circles on the back of the St. Benedict medal. On the face of the medal is the image of Saint Benedict. Also, there are 7 beads in each group to represent the 7 sacraments. Icons, or painted images of Christ and the saints, are especially popular among Eastern Christians as an aid to Christian piety and devotion. On the face of the medal is the image of St. Benedict. Choose from oval, round, blue and red enamel, silver oxidized, and gold plated designs with beautiful finishes as perfected only by the Italians. We believe use and wear ofthis medal and saying the appropriate St Benedict prayers will even prevent demonic possession as will living a holy life. Below St. Benedict we read: ex SM Casino MDCCCLXXX (from holy Monte Cassino, 1880). Of course, you can ask a priest to bless your house as well. This holy abbot, who was destined to influence the spread of Christianity across the world for centuries, had many encounters with the Devil during his life. I. The St. Benedict Home Protection Package includes: FIVE (5) Powerful St. Benedict Exorcism Medals , Wood St. Benedict Plaque anointed with exorcism oil, A Holy Card an explanation sheet and a prayer to Saint Benedict These medals are the most highly indulgenced medal in the Catholic Church! This beautiful smaller crucifix features a sunburst behind Jesus and detailed images on all 4 corners. Option: Bury a St. Benedict medal with each black stone. Any weird histories of the house or school? From shop AvBW. Lumos â to ignite oneâs wand-tip to provide light 6. It measures 1-1/4"(3cm) and is imported from Italy. The Images on the Medal. The exact origins of the St. Benedict medal are uncertain, although it is said that the first medal was worn by the 11th century Pope, Leo IX, who attributed his miraculous recovery from a snake bite to it. Read The Life of St. Benedict from Butler's Lives of the Saints. (you) Who made heaven and earth. Did you find out where the St Benedict's medal came from? Inspire me to imitate you in all things.May your blessing be with me always, so that I may see and serve Christ in others and work for His kingdom. OF THE IMAGE OF S. BENEDICT REPRESENTED ON THE MEDAL. May those who use them devoutly and earnestly strive to performgood works be blessed by you with health of soul and body, the grace of a holy life, and remission of the temporal punishmentdue to sin.May they also with the help of your merciful love, resist the temptation of the evil one and strive to exercise true charity andjustice toward all, so that one day they may appear sinless and holy in your sight. A St. Benedict medal is buried on each of the four corners of the property, (optionally adding 4 more at halfway between each corner). The Jubilee medal is a highly regarded Sacramental of the Church. – Publisher, 1995]. In the angles of the cross are found these four letters:C.S.P.B. Through Jesus Christ Our Lord��╈��. One thing one can also do is bury at the four corners of one's house or apartment building, 4 St. Benedict medals, this is very useful for protecting the land. St. Benedict's medal ; meaning of the initial letters. The sacramentals are a Crucifix, Miraculous Medal, Brown Scapular, and St. Benedict Medal. THE SUNDAY BLESSING WITH HOLY WATER; 3. The honour of appearing on the same medal with the image of the Holy Cross has been given to S. Benedict with the intention of expressing the efficacy which this holy Sign had when made by his venerable hand, S. Gregory the Great, who has written the Life of the Holy Patriarch, tells us how, by the Sign of the Cross, he â¦ (ask the priest, to do this blessing rather than the blessing he might bring). It's â¦ How long have you lived there? ), On one side the medal has a cross, the sign of our redemption, the protecting shield given us by God to ward off the fiery arrows ofevil spirits. Feb 27, 2020 - Explore Romygcal's board "St benedict prayer" on Pinterest. See more ideas about st benedict prayer, prayers, saint benedict. (you)Important: (The medals are then sprinkled with holy water. Needless to say, St Benedict joined the other medal. Box 528 Schuyler, Nebraska 68661. Saint Benedict, Protector of Hearth and Home! Nunquam Suade Mihi Vana. At his sides are the words "Crux S. Patris Benedicti" ("The Cross of the Holy Father Benedict"), and below his feet: "Ex S M Casino MDCCCLXXX" ("From the â¦ I longed to have it around my neck and I needed the protection especially during this time of turmoil. The prayer Bake and enjoy! 1168). They stand for the words: Crux Sancti Patris Benedicti: The Cross of the Holy Father Benedict. Amen.���. Find great deals for Saint Benedict Wall Cross Crucifix Medal Catholic House Exorcism Relief, 10 1/4. Avada Kedavra â to bring about instant death 8. St. Benedict medals of various types have been in use ever since, but the medal in its current form, known as the Jubilee medal, was not struck until 1880, when it was created to honor the 1,400th anniversary of St. Benedict’s birth. Changes made by Behold me humbly kneeling at your feet.I implore you in your loving kindness to pray for me before the throne of God. Construction: 32 beads - 4 groups of 7 beads with single beads in between on the loop attached to a center medal of St. Benedict, then a single bead on the tail with a St. Benedict crucifix. For a large selection of St. Benedict Medals, The Crucifix of St. Benedict, Rosaries, and selected books contact the Benedictine Monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 142 Joseph Blane Rd., Silver City, NM 88061 Tel: (575) 388-9279 / Fax: (575) 534-4320 or visit their website. As of 2015, the English Congregation consists of three abbeys of nuns and ten abbeys of monks. The Saint Benedict medals must have Saint Benedict facing you. Blessing of a St Benedict Medal; Blessing for All Things; Blessings for special days and feasts. A St. Benedict Crucifix is a very powerful sacramental with exorcizing properties; the exorcism is written on the medal embeded behind the head of Christ.
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I was born Troy Kendrick Etheredge in Midland,TX on January 2, 1956 to Troy and Janie Etheredge. I have three sisters, one older and two younger. I graduated from Lee High School in 1974 and then attended West Texas State University where I earned my Bachelors of Science in Biology and Chemistry in 1978. I met my wife-to-be Rachel Wolfe in the Lee High Band and we were married in January 1976 while both still in college.
I then attended Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, TX and earned my DDS in 1981 and returned to Midland to begin my practice of general dentistry.
Our son Christopher was born in August of 1981 only a month after returning to Midland. Our daughter Morgan came in November of 1984.
We have been blessed with 6 grandbabies in the last 5 years, Lela, Eli, Luke, Josiah, Faith and Caroline.
I accepted Christ as my savior in the spring of 1975 and was baptized at Crestview Baptist in Midland. Rachel and I began serving in the music ministry by singing in the choir and on one of our praise teams. Both Christopher and Morgan came to know the Lord at Crestview and have served in music and youth leadership. We all seek to serve God and follow His will in all that we do and as believers, we covet the prayer support of our brothers and sisters in Christ.
I started my dental practice as an associate of another dentist for the first ten years of my career . In 1991, I began a solo practice at my present location.
God has blessed me over the last 30 years of my life with a wonderful family, great friends and coworkers, and great patients! I still enjoy helping people with their dental needs and look forward to many more years of practice.
Thanks for your interest and God Bless!
T Ken Etheredge


C.S. Lewis had a wife by William J. Petersen Download PDF EPUB FB2
This book is fun. It is not just about C.S. Lewis and his wife Joy, but about a number of famous Christian men and their wives.
It is a very easy read and very pleasant. It has a few details that even scholars might not know and will enjoy, but it is clearly written for a popular audience. Don't expect too much detail as it isn't very long,/5(3).
C.S. Lewis Had a Wife by William J. Petersen. Goodreads helps you keep track of books you want to read. Start by marking “C.S.
Lewis Had a Wife” as Want to Read: Want to Read. saving. Want to Read. Currently Reading. Read. C.S. Lewis Had a Wife by/5. From New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan comes an exquisite novel of Joy Davidman, the woman C. Lewis called “my whole world.” When poet and writer Joy Davidman began writing letters to C.
Lewis—known as Jack—she was looking for spiritual answers, n4/5. Her latest book, Becoming Mrs. Lewis: The Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C. Lewis, is her first foray into historical fiction.
It is not the first time the unlikely story of Davidman’s relationship with C.S. Lewis has been fictionalized. The film Shadowlands, based on a play of the same name, covers Lewis and Davidman getting married so she could stay in the United Kingdom.
In this novel, we answer that question as we follow Joy on a decade long journey of transformation from a wife and mother in upstate New York to the beloved wife of C. Lewis. The expanded edition of Becoming Mrs.
Lewis, the Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C.S. Lewis, includes: A Map of Oxford/5(1K). On Ap he wrote to one of his former students, Sheldon Vanauken, an American who had studied at Oxford and whom Lewis had helped lead to the faith, and who had suffered the loss of his wife also.
Vanauken’s story is found in his autobiographical A Severe Mercy, a book I highly recommend. In this letter, Lewis says. Written after his wife's tragic death as a way of surviving the "mad midnight moments," A Grief Observed is C. Lewis's honest reflection on the fundamental issues of life, death, and faith in /5(K).
Gina Dalfonzo October 8, Image: The Marion E. Wade Center / Wheaton College "H. was a splendid thing; a soul straight, bright, and tempered like. In “Becoming Mrs. Lewis,” best-selling author Patti Callahan Henry explores the turbulent life of Joy Davidman, wife of renowned writer C.S.
Lewis. Although not. The official website for C. Lewis. Browse a complete collection of his books, sign up for a monthly enewsletter, find additional resources, and more. A new biography of C. Lewis’s wife, Joy, has altered my perception of Lewis himself.
This is not the first time that my view of someone has shifted based on the story of their spouse. Tozer’s wife’s comments about her husband made me wonder how a man so passionately devoted to God would be so cold and distant to his wife.
Read enough about G. Chesterton’s wife, and you. ‘I too have lost what I most loved’: the author CS Lewis writes about the death of his wife, Joy Davidman. The great tragedy of CS Lewis ’s life was the Author: Dalya Alberge.
A Grief Observed is a collection of C. Lewis's reflections on the experience of bereavement following the death of his wife, Joy Davidman, in The book was first published in under the pseudonym N.W.
Clerk, as Lewis wished to avoid identification as the author. Though republished inafter his death, under his own name, the text still refers to his wife as “H” (her first Author: C. Lewis. ISBN: OCLC Number: Description: pages: illustrations ; 18 cm: Contents: Meet John and Marjory Knox --Meet Hudson and Maria Taylor --Meet Billy and Nell Sunday --Meet Frank and Grace Livingston Hill --Meet Jack (C.S.) and Joy sibility.
C.S. Lewis had a wife. Petersen, William J. Publication date. Topics. Christian biography, Marriage.
Publisher. Wheaton, Ill.: Tyndale House : Aug Vicki Leave a comment. “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well,” so quotes Lewis (p 65) near the end of his published journal entries that relate to the loss of his wife, Helen.
Hilliard ) Pullman is an atheist and is known to be sharply critical of C.S. Lewis's work, accusing Lewis of featuring religious propaganda, misogyny, racism, and emotional sadism in his books.
However, he has also modestly praised The Chronicles of Narnia for being a "more serious" work of literature in comparison with Tolkien's "trivial Children: 2 step-sons; including Douglas Gresham. A journal written by C.S. Lewis from his personal experience upon the death of his wife. He tells of the shock, the stress, the doubts and frustrations with God and then his realization that in the long run there is a reason for our trials and God was with him all the time.
His experience mirrored mine and Lewis shows way to cope/5(K). : Through the Shadowlands is a gripping saga of first love between two unsuspecting participants who become gathered together by shared interest. Initially, for C.S. Lewis, love was a foriegn entity of unrequital dimension, entering his emotional psyche like a piercing, unidentified, flying object.
P atti Callahan is the author of over a dozen critically acclaimed novels. Her new book, Becoming Mrs. Lewis: The Improbable Love Story of Joy Davidman and C. Lewis. Even if “Joy,” Abigail Santamaria’s life of C.S. Lewis’s wife, were a bad book, Lewis’s zealous admirers would read it, eager for another way to finger his shroud.
C.S. Lewis had a wife ; Catherine Marshall had a husband. [William J Petersen] Home. WorldCat Home About WorldCat Help. Search.
Search for Library Items Search for Lists Search for Contacts Search for a Library (C.S.) and Joy Lewis. [book 2]. A Grief Observed, C.S. Lewis A Grief Observed is a collection of C. Lewis's reflections on the experience of bereavement following the death of his wife, Joy Davidman, in The book was first published in under the pseudonym N.W.
Clerk, as Lewis wished to /5. Walsh wrote a biographical article on C.S. Lewis for the New York Times inand he published the first biography of Mr. Lewis a few months later entitled C.S. Lewis: Apostle to the Skeptics.
Joy corresponded with Chad Walsh about her many questions related to Lewis's books. Late in life Lewis married Joy Davidman Gresham, an American who had become a Christian in part through reading Lewis’s books. The two began a correspondence inwhile she was still married to writer William Gresham; by she and her husband, who had been unfaithful, were divorced, and she was living in England, becoming a close.
Lewis had written about God and suffering in a book entitled “The Problem of Pain.” But when he wrote about losing his wife in “A Grief Observed,” he was a different man, says Ivan Strenski, a religious studies professor at the University of California, Riverside.
“The cocky self-confidence is totally destroyed,” Strenski said. Buy a cheap copy of C.S. Lewis had a Wife: An Intimate, Heartwarming Look at the Marriages of Great Christian Leaders by William J. Petersen BGSXXA0 - A gently used book at a great low price. Free shipping in the US.
Discount books. Let the s. CULTURE C. Lewis’s Journey to Faith By Robert B. Stewart Guest Writer. – C. Lewis left his childhood Christian faith to spend years as a determined atheist.
After finally admitting God existed, Lewis gave in and knelt in prayer to become what he described later as “the most dejected and reluctant convert in all England.”. Lewis Had a Wife by William J. Perersen. Tyndale House Publishers, Paperback.
Very Good. Disclaimer:A copy that has been read, but remains in excellent condition. Pages are intact and are not marred by notes or highlighting, but may contain a neat previous owner name. The spine remains undamaged. At ThriftBooks, our motto is: Read More, Spend jacket quality is not.
About C. Lewis's List. InThe Christian Century published C. Lewis's answer to the question, “What books did most to shape your vocational attitude and your philosophy of life?” Lewis responded with ten titles, ranging from Virgil's Aeneid to James Boswell's The Life of Samuel Johnson and from George Herbert's The Temple to Boethius's The Consolation of Philosophy.
I had already purposed to say this before I read in the press last weekend, or heard on the wireless, of the passing of Professor C.S. Lewis. I regret to say this, but that was more or less his teaching also. He believed that you could reason yourself into the Christian faith.
The first book he ever published was a book called The Pilgrim’s. C.S. Lewis () became the world's most famous spokesman for Christianity by the s.
Born into a Protestant family in Belfast, his mother was a mathematician and his father was a lawyer. Lewis began writing books on Christian apologetics after converting to Christianity in C.S.
Lewis () THE APPARITION OF C.S. LEWIS. More than half a century since his death, the books and writings of C.S Lewis still retain a large following, highly rated by both scholars and the public at large, with his Narnia books being turned into successful films.
In particular, the religious writings of Lewis maintain a significant readership amongst Christian believers, millions.


The Priests sign £1m recording contract
Three Roman Catholic priests are set to become stars after signing a £1 million contract with record company Sony BMG.
Father Eugene O'Hagan, 48, his brother Martin, 45, and their old school friend David Delargy, 44, who all hold parishes in Northern Ireland, signed the contract by the steps of London's Westminster Cathedral.
The singing trio call themselves The Priests, and have said that they would give money they made themselves from the music to charity.
The three started singing together at St MacNissi's College, Co Antrim, where they were nicknamed Holy Holy Holy due to their shared ambition to enter the priesthood.
The group have worked a special exemption into their contract, which allows them to stop promotional duties to deal with parish work such as presiding over funerals.
Fr Martin explained the reason behind the clause which allowed the priests to carry out their parish duties. He said: ‘Our work means a great deal to us. We are priests first and foremost. Our work will be at the heart of our plans.’
Fr David added: ‘Singing is very much what we do. This is bringing it to a wider audience. We are singing sacred music, continuing what we have always been doing.’
Nick Raphael, managing director of Epic Records, part of Sony BMG, negotiated the signing. He said: ‘Their voices are incredible. I'm extremely excited. They're going to be wonderful global superstars.’
Published: 24 April 2008


I nursed them up with pain and care, Nor cost nor labour I did spare. Yet, the main complaint Puritans had was the requirement that clergy wear the white surplice and clerical cap. However, the effect of baptism was disputed. Laws banned the practice of individuals toasting each other, with the explanation that it led to wasting God's gift of beer and wine, as well as being carnal. Unwilling to do so, the government issued orders for his immediate return to England in January , but John Winthrop warned Williams, allowing him to escape. The struggle between the assertive Church of England and various Presbyterian and Puritan groups extended throughout the English realm in the 17th Century, prompting not only the re-emigration of British Protestants from Ireland to North America the so-called Scotch-Irish , but prompting emigration from Bermuda , England's second-oldest overseas territory. The period — saw the execution of Quakers see Boston martyrs and the imprisonment of Baptists. Johns Hopkins University Press. These celebrations consisted of food and conversation. Puritanism first emerged as a distinct movement in a controversy over clerical vestments and liturgical practices during
Part of a series on. It counseled moderation within a psychology that saw worldly prosperity as a sign of divine favor. Puritan Gentry Besieged — Discovery Enterprises. As sinners, every person deserved damnation. The Puritan movement of Jacobean times became distinctive by adaptation and compromise, with the emergence of "semi-separatism", "moderate puritanism", the writings of William Bradshaw who adopted the term "Puritan" for himself , and the beginnings of Congregationalism. In New England, where Congregationalism was the official religion, the Puritans exhibited intolerance of other religious views, including Quaker , Anglican and Baptist theologies. Namespaces Article Talk.
Main article: List of Puritans. Similar to Max Weber 's famous claim on the link between the Protestant work ethic and the capitalist economy , Merton argued for a similar positive correlation between the rise of English Puritanism, as well as German Pietism , and early experimental science. Some Puritans refused to bow on hearing the name of Jesus, to make the sign of the cross in baptism, use wedding rings or the organ. Once in New England, the Puritans established Congregational churches that subscribed to Reformed theology. Main article: Definitions of Puritanism. Puritans felt that they had a direct covenant with God to enact these reforms. The Cambridge Companion to Puritanism. Eventually, Charles I will be overthrown, and the puritan dictator Oliver Cromwell will take power. They suggested it be rewritten as "we commit his body [etc. In churches with only one minister, the morning sermon was devoted to the argument interpreting the biblical text and justifying that interpretation and the afternoon sermon to its application the lessons that could be drawn from the text for the individual or for the collective community.
The Puritans did not come to America to establish a theocracy , but neither did they institute religious freedom. Williams refused to back down, and the General Court warned Salem not to install him in any official position. Further information: History of the Puritans in North America. Puritanism in American Life Puritanism gave Americans a sense of history as a progressive drama under the direction of God, in which they played a role akin to, if not prophetically aligned with, that of the Old Testament Jews as a new chosen people. In the aftermath of the crisis, ministers realized the need for greater communication between churches and standardization of preaching. Wikimedia Commons Wikiquote. All residents in Massachusetts and Connecticut were required to pay taxes for the support of the Congregational churches, even if they were religious dissenters. Main article: History of the Puritans. The major point of controversy between Puritans and church authorities was over liturgical ceremonies Puritans thought too Catholic, such as wearing clerical vestments , kneeling to receive Holy Communion , and making the sign of the cross during baptism. Scarecrow Press.


I watched the Queen’s speech. Christmas is a time for family, she said. A common theme and one I am sure she’s said before, or maybe I’m thinking of The Crown… For her, like many others, Christmas is about celebrating the most significant date in the Christian calendar. So, Christmas is about family and religion – but is it really? Families gather for maybe two days in December – on Christmas day and perhaps on Boxing day. We are also an increasingly secular nation. So, what is the dominant narrative of Christmas? The one that gets the nation so excited weeks and months before the birth of Christ?
Christmas, if the advertisements would have us believe it, is populated by of snow and bells and irritatingly happy people singing carols. I think we all know that it rarely snows at Christmas, while carols are Christian hymns and mostly take place in churches where a lot of the population don’t visit. Yet, I like all these things, I also like mulled wine, mince pies and getting presents.
I get that Christmas is an experience, I’m all for it, but it could be better, it could be a lot more authentic – let’s model it on Salzburg! I went there at beginning of December and am totally charmed. I left with just what I had not expected, ‘Christmas spirit’.
I drank Gluhwein in the markets, looked at Christmas decorations, at hats and gloves and ate pretzels the size of my face. I walked through the streets as it snowed and ducked in and out of the narrow stone passageways that are the arteries off the main street. I admired the beautiful, copper green, spires of the endless churches. People skated on the ice rink. I was totally consumed by this vision of Christmas – I had recaptured my childhood sense of wonder.
Had I not been taken I probably wouldn’t have gone to the Christmas museum, I expected to have a bit of a giggle at the twee collection of a fanatic, some Santa gnomes and lots and lots of baubles. In fact, it was like the rest of Salzburg, very tasteful and compact and taught me a great deal. I learnt that Christmas in Austria is terrifying, Santa’s duties are split between nice St Nicholas, giver of gifts to the good children, and the much more than naughty Krampus, tormentor of the bad children. Krampus tends to have a skeletal face, ram’s horn, red tongue and a tail, scary enough an image for me – but what about the children?! In one of the Christmas markets I went to, a more local one, they had his disembodied head hanging from a tree. The museum also had collections of decorative wooden nutcrackers and Christmas paraphernalia, which was genuinely tasteful. It conveyed all of the tradition of Christmas without the commerce that now comes with it.
It is possible to be transfixed by a down to earth and authentic vision of Christmas. I think it would sell better. Save the twee ads and put those execs on a plane to Austria. Perhaps they could distil some of the essence of what made me quite so charmed. Then this Grinch will be decked in tinsel, singing Christmas songs at midnight on the first of December.


Straggling behind their group made them easy prey for wild animals and outlaws as well.
The pilgrimage to the Holy Land was considered to be the most dangerous route. After the First Crusade recaptured Jerusalem in , important knightly orders such as the Knights Templar, the Teutonic Knights, and the Hospitallers were formed and provided a safe passage for pilgrims.
Pilgrimage in Medieval Europe
During this period, the number of Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem increased. However, pilgrimages were once again restricted and threatened by the Ottoman Empire.
- Travel Tips for the Medieval Pilgrim.
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Apr 14, Goran Blazeski. Pilgrim by Gheorghe Tattarescu. With the fall of the Roman Empire, the church managed to extend its power and dominate the lives of both the peasants and the nobility in Europe. It influenced all aspects of European life and encouraged many people to perform extraordinary acts of devotion.
Cosmopolitanism or Competition?Late Medieval Pilgrims at the Eastern Christian Holy Places
Medieval French Manuscript illustration of the three classes of medieval society: those who prayed—the clergy, those who fought—the knights, and those who worked—the peasantry. Among these acts of devotion to God, were the pilgrimages to special holy places called shrines. Christian pilgrimages became a common thing during the Middle Ages since people believed that by going on a pilgrimage they might be forgiven their sins.
- Pilgrimages: medieval summer holidays?.
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- Abrégé dhistoire du climat : Du Moyen Âge à nos jours (Divers Histoire) (French Edition).
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Thus, a pilgrimage was considered an ultimate spiritual act. The Way of St. Monasteries located along the pilgrimage roads Some monastic churches also housed relics of their own, and these often incorporated an interior passageway called an ambulatory, which allowed pilgrims to circulate and venerate the relics without interrupting the monks in their regular orders of prayer.
The need to accommodate larger numbers of pilgrims caused many churches to undertake major renovations, for example, Saint-Denis, which was dramatically altered under Abbott Suger in the early twelfth century. The concept and experience of pilgrimage was so strong in medieval Europe that it fired the imagination of the age and set the tone for travel of all kinds. The Crusades , armed campaigns mounted to win control of the Holy Land, were understood as a particular kind of pilgrimage, and so were many of the quests pursued by knights in life and legend.
The norms of medieval pilgrimage affected the visual arts as well. For example, an ivory carved around depicts the risen Christ with the two disciples who met him on the road to Emmaus; they are shown as contemporary pilgrims, with walking sticks, a vessel for water, and a purse marked with a cross The ivory reflects the popularity of Santiago de Compostela, then at the height of its fame, and it differs markedly from another depiction of the same subject in a ninth-century ivory, where the travelers wear modified classical garb and pursue their goal less emphatically A fragment of a painting by Sassetta represents another biblical journey, that of the Magi on the way to adore the infant Jesus; the kings are fashionably dressed, mounted on horseback, and surrounded by a lively entourage, like aristocratic pilgrims traveling in state The increase of humanity and naturalism in religious art of this time may be linked to this type of spiritual exercise.
F. Thomas Noonan
Even travels of nonreligious character might share the spirit of pilgrimage or appear so in art. Sorabella, Jean. Ashley, Kathleen, and Marilyn Deegan. Burlington, Vt.
Medieval Pilgrimages: It’s All About the Journey
Barnes, Ruth, and Crispin Branfoot, eds. Pilgrimage: The Sacred Journey. Oxford: Ashmolean Museum, Husband, Timothy B.
New York: Metropolitan Museum of Art, See on MetPublications. Kessler, Herbert L. Rome On the Path of the Pilgrim.
New Haven: Yale University Press, Sumption, Jonathan. Mahwah, N.


By Ingrid Weilguny
Photo credit: Til Westermeyer
With Christmas around the corner, I’m starting to think of the most wonderful time of year here in Austria. Christmas markets, the smell of roasted chestnuts and honey almonds swirling around me, standing by a fire outdoors with a mug of mulled cider. Christmas cookies, gingerbread houses and real Christmas trees surrounded by family until the Christkind comes on Christmas Eve. I cannot think of a nicer time of year.
However, Christmas for me as a child was something different.
My mother would wake up early the day before to go to the fish market in Sydney to get the best seafood she could find. Christmas was always a relaxed day with a picnic, often sitting under the sprinkler as it was so hot. As I grew older, I didn’t even go home for Christmas as I lived too far away. Christmas was often spent with a group of people on a beach. With Santa Claus!
For my children, weather aside, we try to capture the best of both cultures for my children. We write our letters to Santa in December (who is now high tech and will send your children a video back at Portable North Pole), decorate our tree early as a family and wait for both Santa and the Christkind.
As many multicultural families around the world can share, Christmas is one time of year when two cultures are often brought together:
SANDRA: “My mother was Belgium and my father English. We celebrated Saint Nikolas with a chocolate clog full of marzipan sweets on the 6th December – and Father Christmas with a stocking with small gifts left for us children on Christmas Eve – whilst we would leave carrots out for the Reindeer and a drink for Father Christmas…”
FRANNY: “I have an Italian father and an Australian mother. Christmas Eve was the Italian feast of fish and fried food with Christmas day being a traditional Australian Christmas dinner of Turkey and plum pudding. “Eating! That is all we seem to do at Christmas.”
ARY: “I also combine two different Christmas cultures. We have two family dinners. Spanish celebrate “Noche Buena” which means “Good Night” on December 24th with a big family feast, and then American Christmas dinner on December 25th. The children also receive presents on Dec 25th and Jan. 6th for Three Kings Day or the Feast of the Epiphany. We used to put out grass for the kings’ camels when they were little. It was fun celebrating both.”
BRANDI: “Christmas for us starts with St. Nikolaus which is celebrated in the evening with St. Nik shaking his keys against our door or ringing the doorbell and leaving bags of goodies on our doorstep. After this we go together as a family to pick out our tree, put it up and decorate it together, as well, a couple weeks before Christmas.
As the boys are bigger now, Christmas is just presents under the tree on the 24th but when the children were little we used to go to Oma’s house for Christmas. All the children were shooed out of the living room and into the kitchen to eat. One of the great aunts would quickly pull the tree out of the shut bedroom into the living room and place the Christkind’s gifts under it. We enjoyed a meal of gulasch and semmelknoedel and lots of cookies and sweets while the Christkind worked magic. On the 25th, Santa came to our house.”
LORENA: “With us it is tricky as we have three cultures: Austrian, American and Puerto Rican. Nikolaus comes first on the 5th of December. Then we decorate the tree. The Chriskind comes on the 24th, Santa Claus on the 25th and the Three Kings on the 6th January. The children gets lots of small presents spread out over the three days.”
How does your family mix and match your cultural traditions during the winter holidays?
Ingrid Weilguny is an Australian living in Austria with her three bilingual German/English girls. She has an MA in Applied Linguistics and an Med in TESOL. She works as an English as a Foreign Language teacher while working on a Masters in Journalism.


Characteristic of Responsibility
I Samuel 12: 3 – Behold, here I am: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received any bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.
Verse Three – “or whose ass have I taken?” – The donkey is a beast of burden and symbol of surefootedness. When traveling across rough terrain, the donkey was the animal of choice. Samuel was a man with values and he handled his personal issues privately. He never became a burden to the people and unloaded personal issues onto the nation.


Six young students from Canada and America have been active in the Parkes community this week volunteering their
help. The team from the Capernwray Bible School in Moss Vale came to Parkes for the very first time as part of their community involvement week on invitation from the Parkes Anglican Church.
According to Director of the Capernwray Bible School Peter Thomas there are 17 teams across Australia, including Forbes. They take in 45 students every year from all over the world. “Many of them see it as a gap year before they go to university, or taking a break from studies, to grow their personal faith,” said Peter.
The Parkes team had a busy programme helping out with the toy library, gardening, visiting old age homes, and the Christian School, sharing their lives at church services, as well as organising a Family Fun Day with the Forbes team for tomorrow.
The fun day, open to the whole community, will be at Lions Park from 2 to 4pm on Saturday with live music, games, face painting, traditional races and a sausage sizzle. “My time in Australia so far has been really cool,” said one of the students, Faith Pogoda. “I have seen my faith grow and have experienced what it is to live in a Christian community.”
She thinks Australia is awesome and loves seeing the different landscapes. “Parkes is really wonderful. It is amazing how festivals have drawn the community together.”
Troy Friesen loves Australia. “I was here two years ago and it is great to be back. The people are as friendly as in Canada, and Parkes is very welcoming. I am excited to be here.” On a personal level he has seen his knowledge of the Bible grow. “We have become great friends and it is really cool to be involved in different churches.”


Happy Thanksgiving from my home to yours. I am taking this day to give thanks for all the blessings in my life.
After serving the homeless by providing over 150 food boxes with our Church members we return home and have our meal.
We are hosting the Lesniak side of the family for a dinner and fellowship. It is a rare day we can all get together in one room to gather at the table.
As always, my blog family is remembered as we go around the table and express all the things we have and share with others.
I hope all of you have a wonderful gathering making memories. For those of you that spend today alone, there is always an empty chair at the table waiting for you.
I will be back on Saturday to share my good fortune with you all.


I grew up in Knoxville, TN., where I attended Inskip Elementary School for 8 years, and Central High School for one year. I played drums in the marching band. My parents sent me
away to Ben Lippen School in Asheville NC for my high school years. I graduated in 1973. Ben Lippen School is a Christian Prep School that helped me developed the spiritual habits of prayer and
Bible study. One of the smartest things I ever did was to set a specific time aside daily and commit that time to the Lord for prayer and Bible Study, a habit that I still keep to this day. It was
also at this school that I began playing guitar and writing songs. Playing guitar came almost as naturally to me as breathing, while the songwriting craft took a much longer time to develop.
As to my testimony of coming to Christ, I had my salvation experience when I was young at a Family Camp in Marion, NC, under the ministry of Robertson McQuilken. It was called Missionary Plantation. Since I was so deeply involved in sports, music never crossed my mind before I was saved. My first spiritual awakening beyond my salvation experience occurred at Ben Lippen School, when I discovered that I could learn to relate to God through Bible study and prayer.
During the late 1980s, while I was working in Atlanta GA and attending the North Atlanta Bible Church, I discovered that I had certain gifts that could be used in full time ministry. After spending a good deal of time receiving counseling from the elders of the church, I decided to pursue opportunities of full time ministry. In 1990, an invitation to become a full time member of the missionary staff of New Life Bible Camp was offered to me. It was a “raise your own support” position. That was almost 25 years ago. The Lord has provided for all my needs and giving me far beyond that I could even ask for. My responsibilities at camp include leading worship, speaking during the evening meetings of summer camp, developing the summer camp small group Bible Studies, and finding way to use my musical abilities to minister to the many small churches in our area in Buffalo Mills, PA.
My musical ministry is really more about the camping ministry than it is about a musical career. My first obligation is to serve the Lord at camp, which often means I have to do others things besides music. I have recorded 9 projects that contain all original Christian themed songs. I am deeply passionate about worshipping with people of like faith in Christ. I am the worship leader of New Life Bible Camp for both retreats and the summer camping programs.
My deepest hope and abiding desire is that I might one learn to write great and powerful songs like the hymn writers of old, songs that speak truth about who God is and who He can be within us.
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BRONZE Good Citizen Award
The Williamsburg Chapter has nominated the Rev. Jan Brown for VASSAR’s Good Citizen of the Year Award.
She is an ordained Deacon serving as the Archdeacon of the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia and Deacon at Williamsburg’s Bruton Parish Church.
One of Jan’s proudest accomplishments is the Spirit Works Foundation Center for the Soul, a community recovery organization that she founded. The Foundation delivers services for children, youth, and adults living in recovery from the disease of addiction.
The Chapter was pleased last July to present Jan Brown with its SAR Bronze Good Citizenship Medal.


I go through life as a transient on his way to eternity, made in the image of God but with that image debased, needing to be taught how to meditate, to worship, to think. Donald Coggan
Richard Foster’s book The Celebration of Discipline changed my thinking about several things when I was in seminary, mainly fasting and meditation. I highly recommend this book for a first read, even a second. The title is a bit misleading because though fasting, prayer, meditation, simplicity, solitude and the rest have been called “disciplines”, there is a negative connotation for many people to the word discipline when it comes to spiritual matters. The disciplines as Richard Foster describes them are doors to liberation. I have found them to be the pathway to hearing from God until you taste the sweetness and want more, more, more.
I love Elijah’s story. He was feeling alone as he ministered faithfully against a tough audience, delivering God’s messages. “And He (God) said, Go out and stand on the mount before the Lord. And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; 12 And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire [a sound of gentle stillness and] a still, small voice. 13 When Elijah heard the voice, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. (And God continued speaking to Elijah). I Kings 19 Amplified Bible
Might God’s still small voice shatter your life and bring you unmistakable joy.
You’ve got to LOVE the Old Testament!


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Why have I been neglecting my poor blog?
I making excuses & telling you all that I have just "been so busy" because I feel like I say it every time......even if it is true.
I have been quite busy with things in my life and I have been struggling with a few burdens.
Last night was a breaking point for me in my life and I realized that I have been neglecting more than just my blog. I have been neglecting my personal walk with God, some of my own personal responsibilities and neglecting my main goal in life, to be an example of Christ to others.
After tears and prayers, and pouring over God's word I feel like a new person. And I shouldn't have been amazed, but I was, to realize that God has forgiven me once again for stupid mistakes I have made. His mercy is everlasting, and he is always ready to forgive and restore his children.
Even if we continually neglect him like I realized last night I have been doing.
So begins my "transformation" my "metamorphosis". I feel like I have a new slate and I am so determined to set my priorities straight. My walk with my Saviour is first and foremost, but I honestly do feel that this blog is one of my priorities. Obviously I don't think it should consume my time and energy, but if I can be an example of Christ through something so simple as my blog, and the crafts I do......then I will do it to the best of my ability.
But I don't want you to finish reading this and feel saddened! Believe me I feel so joyful, and so excited! I have a new energy to do what is right and to serve my Lord! I have a fresh perspective on what is important in life!
I would covet your prayers!


swimsuits Secret Keeper Delicate Power Modesty
I truly do love this book. I saw it on the internet and ordered it, and what a blessing!! Modesty in our day in age is so rare now--even among Christians. This book was so needed, and wonderfully written. It talks not only about "dressing" modestly, but about modesty of the heart, and much more. It even showed the guy's perspective when we do dress immodestly--which really showed me A LOT! I would have not known, and it's so wonderful that Dannah wrote about it. We females need to realize what we do to the men around us when we dress immodestly. Especially Christian men. We think it looks good, but we forget about the men around us and the struggles going on in their minds. What an eye opener!
It not only talks about that dressing modestly is because God tells us to and it pleases Him when we do, but she explains that the Bible tells us that we are only to "intoxicate" one man with our beauty and the deepest secrets of our bodies. And when we dress immodestly, we allow "many" men to lust after us, which is sin.
There's much more I could say about this book, it is so wonderful! I have found myself reading it over and over again. It is easy to read, yet packed with tons of great info that all Christian and non-Christian females need to hear.
Every female should read this book!


“Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” Isaiah 5: 20
Two new mass graves containing over 30 bodies in the Christian city of Sadad were recently discovered, evidence of what one archbishop called “the most serious and biggest massacre” of Christians in Syria.
The situation for Christians in Syria has been horrific and it seems to be only getting worse as time passes. Indeed, for many Christians around the world, their faith puts them in the line of fire.
A report published by Fides on Thursday stated that some 45 Christian civilians, including women and children, were killed by Islamist rebels in Sadad, halfway between Homs and Damascus.
The report, which cited the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate in Damascus, stated that the Christian settlement was invaded and occupied by Islamist militias on Oct. 21, though it was recently recaptured by the Syrian army.
“45 innocent civilians were martyred for no reason, and among them several women and children, many thrown into mass graves,” said Archbishop Selwanos Boutros Alnemeh, Syriac Orthodox Metropolitan of Homs and Hama. “Other civilians were threatened and terrorized. 30 were wounded and 10 are still missing.”
Much of the city, which had a population of 15,000, was destroyed and looted, eyewitnesses said, according to the Christian Post.


Wilbur R. Harris, 92, of Monessen, passed away on Monday Sept. 23, 2019 in The Residence at Hilltop. He was born on June 15, 1927 in California, PA, the son of the late Raymond and Edna (Grimes) Harris. Mr. Harris served his country during WWII with the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Theater. He was a retired pipe fitter, having worked as a foremen in the pipe shop at the Monessen plant of Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Corporation. He was a member of the Epiphany of Our Lord Church and its Holy Name Society, Knights of Columbus Council 954, Mid Mon Valley Shipmates, and a former member of the Epiphany Bowling League. A devoted husband and loving father and grandfather, he is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mickalina Sparacino Harris, two daughters, Carol Cocciolone of Rostraver Twp., Michelle (John) Conley of McMurray; four grandchildren, Marissa (Adam) Cocciolone Nowak, Jason Conley, Justin Conley, Anthony "AJ" Cocciolone Jr.; brother, Arthur (Pauline) Harris of California, PA; and by numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister Evelyn Duvall and son-in-law Dr. Anthony "Tony" Cocciolone. Friends will be received in Dalfonso-Billick Funeral Home Inc. and Cremation Services, 441 Reed Ave. Monessen on Wednesday from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm. Services will be held on Thursday beginning with a 9:30 am Blessing in the funeral home, followed by a 10:00 am Funeral Mass in Epiphany of Our Lord Church 44 Pennsylvania Blvd. Monessen, with Rev. Michael J. Crookston officiating. Entombment will follow in Grandview Cemetery Mausoleum, Monessen. The following services will be conducted on Wednesday in the funeral home: Mid Mon Valley Shipmates Two Bell Ceremony at 3:00 pm, Knights of Columbus Council 954, prayer service at 6:00 pm. Condolences accepted for the family at www.dalfonso-billick.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wilbur R. Harris, please visit our floral store.


TGI Program Only
You must have a downloadable device to order this program.
Spiritual Awareness - Donna Anderson - $45.00
These TGI sessions will help you to re-connect with spirit and go inward to the quiet
stillness that is needed during difficult times.
Everything that needs to be taken care of, in your own mind, will be taken care of.
During these sessions, you will experience the omnipotent power that lies within you.
Track dasa01 - The Lord's Prayer
Everyone wants to know how to pray so that we may have the desires of our heart.
One of the most enduring and most known prayers throughout history is The Lord's Prayer.
With rote cadence, over time, the prayer of Jesus has lost its meaning and it's magic.
This is the very thing He warned about in the scriptures. Here, in this session, you are given
insights and understanding to what this powerful prayer really is, and how to apply it to any circumstance and receive your desired outcome. Let it be revealed to you the omnipotent
power that lies within you, through prayer.
Track dasa02 - The Funeral
One of the most difficult things we can experience is the loss of someone we love. It can be the most overwhelming emotional time in our life. With so much sudden and on-going change occurring, moment by moment, along with the responsibilities that come with honoring the departed, both publicly and privately, we often need a respite. This session will give you just that; a moment to breathe again and to go inward to the quiet stillness that is needed during this difficult time. This session creates a space in time for you to lay it all down, to nurture yourself and to take care of everything that needs to be taken care of, in your own mind, as you find the strength to say your final farewell.
Track dasa03 - Pure Awareness Everywhere
Psalms 139: 7 - 10. A Psalm of David ~ "Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend into heaven, You are there; If I make my bed in hell, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the morning, And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, Even there Your hand shall lead me, And Your right hand shall hold me."
Here, King David expresses the unfathomable presence of God as his words describe our total inability to be separate from God and our own true, essential nature. This presence fills all of the spaces, in all places. Whether we are aware, or not, this presence does not change. This session quietly allows you to notice, beyond the things that seem to keep us feeling separate, the silent presence that is there all along in everything and in every moment. Becoming more and more aware of this lively, silent presence allows you to experience peace, always available, as you begin to practice Pure Awareness Everywhere.


Monday, 16 June 2014
Heriot, Father Maurice Bernard 'Lou'
Earlier this year, the community of East Bentleigh lost a great man. Father Maurice Bernard Heriot—or 'Lou', as he was affectionately known—passed away after a long battle with illness. For 20 years, Father Heriot was the parish priest at St Peter's Church in East Bentleigh. He began training as a priest in 1944 and was ordained by Archbishop Mannix in 1951. A priest for 63 years, Lou served at many parishes, including St Peter and St Paul's in South Melbourne for four years.
It was in 1973 that the respected father Dan Coakley passed away, leaving big shoes to be filled. Lou was chosen for the task and he became parish priest at St Peter's in September that year. The one and only Father Bob Maguire succeeded Lou at South Melbourne and they remained great mates right up until Lou's sad passing. Lou and Bob shared one very special quality: they were people's priests. They understood and related to their parishioners, and they did not care much for the strict hierarchy of the church. At his service, attended by thousands of people, Father Michael Sierakowski quipped to Archbishop Denis Hart: 'He liked authority, didn't he!'
Father Lou loved riding his bicycle around East Bentleigh, visiting parishioners and local residents. He would visit families of newly enrolled students at St Peter's Primary School to welcome them to what is a wonderful community. One of my staff, who is not Roman Catholic, recalls how Father Heriot put in extra effort to welcome him and his family to the St Peter's community when he was enrolled at the school. Lou would often visit on his bike because he wanted everyone in that community, Catholic or not, to feel welcome at St Peter's. People with problems big or small would go to Father Heriot for advice, which he willingly gave. To the local community, he was a role model, a mentor and a friend.
In 1993, it was decided by the church hierarchy, not by Lou, that Father Heriot was getting on in years and would be transferred to the smaller parish of St Finbar's in East Brighton, where he remained until 2009. Having spent 20 years at St Peter's, Centre Road, East Bentleigh, and 16 years at St Finbar's, Centre Road, East Brighton, he was often referred to as the 'Centre Road priest'. He immediately embraced the parish at St Finbar's, and in turn was embraced by those parishioners. He continued visiting local people on his trademark bicycle for many years.
He retired from St Finbarr's in 2009. In semiretirement, he lived in Mornington, but he was still as busy as ever, assisting parishes, writing a book about his life and spending time with his family. Last Christmas, Lou was too unwell to be with his family on Christmas day but blessed the table over the phone, a poignant and special moment. He was a priest who embodied Christ's message of love, compassion and forgiveness. He gave so much of himself to the people he served. Father Lou Heriot died on Good Friday. Vale, Father Heriot.


Arlis Dale Ratliff Obituary
(From The San Angelo Standard Times (2/18/2002)
ARLIS DALE RATLIFF
BIG SPRING ó Arlis Dale Ratliff, 77, passed away Saturday, Feb. 16, 2002, at
1:05 A.M. in the Midland Memorial Hospital after a lengthy battle with emphysema
and diabetes. Service will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Big
Spring at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 19, with the Rev Jerry Don Cheshire, pastor of
the First United Methodist Church of Higgins, the Rev. Claude McKiddy, pastor of
the First United Methodist Church of Garden City and the Rev. Al Stiefer, pastor
of the First Baptist Church of Garden City, officiating. Internment will follow
in the Garden City Cemetery.
He was born on Sept. 12, 1924, in Lamesa, Texas, and married Barbara Lu Currie
on April 1, 1955, in Garden City, Texas. He grew up in Garden City and was a
lifelong rancher. He served in the U. S. Army. He also held the office of
Glasscock County Commissioner for four years. He and his wife served as
Glasscock County Chairmen for the Howard-Glasscock Centennial. He was honored at
the Old Settlerís Reunion as Pioneer of the Year.
He was an avid sports fan, loved playing dominoes, and in his early years, was
an outstanding roper; he held the highest average in the Glasscock County Roping
Club for two years. He was big-hearted, kind and loved people; he never met a
stranger. His pride and joy were his family, his wife of 46 years, Barbara Lu,
his daughter, Laura Maud Huitt and his grandson, Luke Huitt.
He was an active member of the First United Methodist Church of Garden City,
where he served as officer in almost every church office, and took great pride
in the maintenance of the church yard, a gift he gave to the church for over 15
years. He was also a member of the Menís Bible Class at the First United
Methodist Church in Big Spring, where he attended services for nine years.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam Ratliff and Ruthie Lawler Ratliff:
his brother, George Ratliff; his sister, Ruby Nelle Barfield and her husband,
Jiggs Barfield; and two nieces, Barbara Nelle Fonville and Diana Lu Currie
His survivors include his wife, Barbara Lu, his daughter, Laura Maud Huitt and
grandson, Luke Huitt, all of Garden City.
Pallbearers are John Sam Barfield, Garden City, Bill Currie, Big Spring, Jerry
Jon Currie, Big Spring , Freddy Chaney, Greenwood, Jose Lopez, Garden City,
Howard Engle, Adrian, Juan de Luna, Garden City and Michael Hoch, Garden City.
Honorary pallbearers are Lester Ratliff, Big Lake, Derwood Ratliff, Midland, Jay
Cunningham, Houston, Dale Cunningham, California, Kent Morgan, Big Spring, John
Currie, Big Spring, Jerry Currie, Big Spring, Duane Cox, Midland, Choc Harris,
St. Lawrence, Harry Love Calverley, Lubbock, James Currie, Garden City, Glenn
Riley, Midland and all of the men of the First United Methodist Church of Garden
The family especially appreciated the loving care and concern that was given to
Arlis during his illness by Rosie Roberts, Hobbs, N.M.; John Sam and Mary
Barfield, Garden City; Bill Currie, Big Spring; Janet and Harry Middleton, Big
Spring; Wilma Dean Webb, Midland; Derwood Ratliff, Midland; and Elia Gomez,
Midland. Also, a special thanks to Mildred Harris, Billy Nunley, and Dorothy
Webster, his telephone and television buddies. We would also like to thank the
physicians who took wonderful care of Arlis: Dr. John McKenna, Dr. N.M. Patel,
Dr. Bruce Cox, and, the superior nursing staff on the fourth floor of Midland
Memorial Hospital and Best Home Health Care of Big Spring.
The family will receive friends at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home on
Monday, Feb. 18, 2002, from 7:30-9 p.m.
Submitted by Gene
Schafer on June 2, 2002.
Back to Obituaries


Lee Salisbury, a former pastor, is a typical apostate. We see that his reasons for abandoning Christianity revolve around a faulty definition of the true meaning of “faith”, as well as many other emotional objections to Christianity. In an article posted at the Secular Web, “Answers to Prayer,” these flaws are quite apparent. 1
Answers to prayer should be the norm for Christians. Didn’t Jesus say ” Ask and it shall be given you” (Mt.7:7)? Based on Jesus’s words answers to prayer should be automatic.
Apparently Salisbury has never heard of “hyperbole” (aka, exaggeration used for emphasis). According to Salisbury, this is a problem for Christianity because so many Christians ask for help and don’t receive it. Yet the idea that all our prayers are automatically answered is bad theology and worse philosophy (since some prayer requests will contradict other requests and since some requess go against the will of God). I suppose that Salisbury had his former faith crushed when God didn’t make him win the lottery. The bottom line is this- Salisbury believes that many of the problems Christians have are directly related to their faith-based thinking:
These afflictions continue because the Christian thought-processes reject objective, rational, critical thinking. Since these thought-processes are done independent of God or the Bible they are considered to be ungodly.
And so we see that, despite years of pastoral service, Salisbury has an entirely faulty definition of biblical faith. 2 In actuality, biblical faith is built upon a rational basis, and it basically involves a trust relationship based on evidence. Most of Salisbury’s rant is focused on this faulty definition.
It might cause them to question their religion. This dilemma for many otherwise intelligent capable Christians is the crux of the problem.
Of course, this is the one-liner of the atheist crowd- “It might cause you to question your religion!” This sarcastic statement is utilized for polemical effect in an attempt to generalize Christians as blindly gullible. As a matter of fact, many Christians do have doubts, and they do question their faith- but they end up keeping it in the end. Oftentimes it seems as if nontheists literally cannot understand how an intelligent person can question Christianity and still remain a Christian. Ironically, it seems as though it is Salisbury who has rejected Christianity for irrational reasons (a misunderstanding of faith, evil deeds of the church and past Christians, etc.)
The 2nd century church father Tertullian wrote that the personal pursuit of truth and understanding is in itself an indication of heresy.
Apparently Salisbury doesn’t realize that “church fathers” are capable of error. Should we discount atheism because of what a famous atheist has said?
Thus, it is heretical to consider that the earth’s age might exceed 6,000 years, in spite of the geologic scientific record, lest one compromise the Bible’s genealogy of Jesus to Adam.
There are a variety of Christian views on this subject, and not all of them uphold the young age of the earth. 3
It is heretical to challenge the Noah flood story regardless of the extraordinary improbability of Noah’s ability to gather, feed, and keep alive two of every fowl, cattle, and creeping thing of the earth on a one-window boat for 10½ months; and in spite of the archeological record of neighboring cultures which contradicts the occurrence of a worldwide flood.
Likewise, even if we assume that Salisbury is right about this, there are a variety of Christian views on this issue, and not all of them uphold a literal global flood and ark.
Certainly it would be heretical to question the teachings and deeds of Jesus even though the earliest copies of copies of copies of manuscripts date from 300 years after his alleged life; and even though the reputable Jewish philosopher and historian Philo of Alexandria who was contemporaneous with Jesus never so much as mentioned the existence of a Jesus of Nazareth or the alleged miracles in and surrounding his life.
I would love Salisbury to compare the Christian manuscripts with any other manuscripts of any ancient historical document. Undoubtedly, such a comparison would be quite an embarrassment to Salisbury, for he would find that the manuscript evidence for the New Testament far exceeds that of any ancient historical document. 4 As for Philo, according to J.P. Holding such a lack of mention is hardly a surprise:
“…Philo may not have lived long enough to see Christianity become a threat, and make Jesus worthy of note; to report nothing about someone in your history was a typical means of oblique insult; and we know Philo at least never mentions Christianity either, so the silence about Jesus is hardly problematic…” 5
Next, Salisbury has some complaints about Christianity’s view of human nature:
For example, in order to be a candidate for becoming a Christian each person must accept that they are sinners. Why?
Well…. perhaps because we are. Salisbury gives us no reason to think otherwise. But, according to Salisbury the reason is this:
The historical facts as recorded in the Bible state that some 6,000 years ago a person named Eve, who, after being made from Adam’s rib while he slept, was spurred on by a talking snake to seduce Adam into the sin of eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Yes, this is so. However, it must be mentioned that, for those that find the story of Adam and Eve to be “unbelievable” (why?) then one can take Adam and Eve to be symbolic.
All objective, rational, critical thought must be suspended to believe this story. But, once this story is accepted (swallowed), the process of naive, exploitable, child-like faith and cognitive dissonance become the standard operating procedure.
Salisbury doesn’t say why this is so (perhaps he believes it is self-evident?), but I see no reason to listen to his rant. In any case Salisbury surely hasn’t used much “objective, rational, or critical thought” in order to discredit the story of Adam and Eve. How ironic it is that, in the process of completing a rant about supposed “critical thinking”, Salisbury has committed the fallacy of argument by assertion!
In fact, biblical Christianity undermines a person’s ability to think by using self-deprecation as the hammer to convince people of their depraved, sinful state. The acclaimed Protestant theologian John Calvin declared ‘We are nothing but mud and filth both inside and outside.’ The Roman Catholic Ignatius of Loyola stated, ‘We are mere dung.’
Here, once again, Salisbury quotes church fathers and theologians as if they were inerrant. Should we discredit atheism because Nietsche argued that life was totally meaningless? And what if Calvin and Loyola are right and we are complete scum? Is there any reason for us to think this is not true? But even if they are wrong, there is nothing in the Bible or Christianity that necessitates such a low view of human morality. And even if it did it would not necessarily mean that Christianity undermines a person’s ability to think.
In any case, let us consider the stance of atheism. On the atheist view, we are just the result of complicated chemical reactions. There is nothing objectively valuable to our existence. So, on the atheist view, we are “mere dung”- or even worse! We are absolutely nothing of value, living out our brief existence in a universe that has no value. Dung may be a rather generous view of ourselves if we follow the logical outcome of atheism. 6
Instead of empowering people, Christianity in fact weakens people’s ability to think, thus accentuating self-doubt, fear, exhaustion, helplessness, as well as all the other conditions expressed in the prayer request.
But Christ allows us to live in confidence and peace. Besides, what does any of this ramble have to do with whether or not Christianity is true?
Biblical faith’s substance is not only of things “hoped for” but depends on the evidence of things “not seen” (Heb.11:1).
Of course Salisbury mentions Hebrews 11:1 (Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.) We don’t receive, nor should we expect, any sort of examination of this passage in context. Here I will offer an extended quote of J.P. Holding:
There, see! The evidence of things not seen. Blind faith. Case closed.” Try again! The list that follows offers examples of people who had been given undeniable proof of God’s existence and power. Pistis here is a matter of trust in a God who has demonstrated His ability to be a worthy patron, and the examples are those of clients who, knowing this ability, trust in God’s record as a patronal provider. Hebrews 11:1 therefore is telling us that faith (trust in our patron, gained by conviction based on evidence) is the substance (the word here means an assurance, as in a setting under, a concrete essence or an abstract assurance) of things hoped for (this word means expected by trust, which is something earned!), and the evidence of that which is not seen, which in context means we expect, based on past performance, continuing favor from our patron, who has already proven Himself worthy of our trust by example, and this trust is our confidence in the fulfillment of future promises. Blind faith? Not in the least! It is faith grounded in reality. 7
In contrast, objective rational thought put forward by the likes of Copernicus, Kepler, Galileo, Descartes, Newton, Darwin, Paine, and, other reputable scientists and academics have catapulted us forward to advances in science, the arts, democracy in government, and human rights barely if ever imagined in religious history.
Interestingly, most the scientists on the short list provided were Christians! But why should “Christianity” be expected to come up with wonderful scientific advances? Scientific advances are supposed to come from scientists. However, as mentioned here, many of the scientists responsible for such advances are (and were) Christians, and were inspired by their Christianity to do such great work.
Religious, faith-based thinking has resisted these advances at every turn.
Which, even if true, does nothing to show that religion is wrong (see HERE). Nor does it show that these advances, according to sound Christian doctrine, should be opposed.
These advances, many of which came in spite of persecution from Christians, developed because various individuals had the courage to apply objective, rational, critical reasoning to the problems of their day.
It is indeed interesting that many of those who had the “courage” to stand up to the “evil Christians” were in fact Christians themselves!
Christians will continue to struggle as long as their faith requires them to violate the very foundations of that which provides health and well being to the human psyche.
Merely more ranting- totally unsubstantiated by any sort of argument. But, even if it were true, it would not show that Christianity is wrong.
Christianity with its longstanding weapon of maligning its detractors creates peer pressure from which few are willing or able to consider the contradictions and inconsistencies.
And, of course, this is how Salisbury answers the question “why are there so many Christians?” Obvious- it’s because of the brainwashing! This is merely another “sound bite” aimed at pleasing the crowd.
There really was very little of value in this extended rant by a former pastor. However, I decided to write a response because this is the sort of stuff you may find from most nonbelievers, particularly apostates. There is no need to be intimidated by these sorts of rants.
1. Salisbury, Lee. Answers to Prayer. Found at http://www.infidels.org/secular_web/feature/1999/prayer.html
3. India, “Reconciling Creation and Science”, http://www.rationalchristianity.net/creation_evolution.html
6. William Lane Craig, Reasonable Faith (Wheaton: Crossway books, 1994) Chapter 2.


Today marks 25 years of being married to my best friend, Janice. I love many things about her, these are just a few.
I love her faith.
I love how she dreams…big. And I love how those dreams include me.
I love how she continues to love me when I can’t always fulfill those dreams…at least not yet
I love how she loves our kids, she is an amazing mother who gives so much.
I love how brave she is, she had open heart surgery a few years ago to repair a very large hole in heart. (the size of a quarter!)
I love riding bikes with her
I love how she’s willing to laugh at herself.
I love how she was willing to hold my hand when I quit my job to pursue a life long dream off painting. It was like walking off the rim of the Grand Canyon and she was willing to come with me. And, by the way, she continues to hold my hand.
I love how we witnessed the sunset on the Grand Canyon together for the first time.
I love how we stood atop Half Dome in Yosemite to celebrate her 40th Birthday.
I love her slighty deformed left hand fingers that makes her uniquely her.
I love her sexyness ( That’s right, I said it)
I love how she loves Jesus; with all her heart and brokeness.
I love the cute grin on her face when she sneaks a bowl of ice cream. It’s the same cute grin she has when she wants something from me.
I love how she’s willing to push past her fears and race downhill on her bike going over 40 miles an hour.
I love how she loves good wine, good food and even better friends.
I love how she supports me and my wild dreams.
I love how she can calm my soul when it most needs calming.
I love how much she likes chick flicks and likes them even more when I watch them with her. We’re watching one as I write this post, Notting Hill. I love that movie.
I love her loving patience, and kind heart.
I love how much she loves this wildly unpredictable life that God and has given us, even though it can be very hard.
Speaking of unpredictable. I love how she’s willing to go skydiving next week to celebrate our daughters 21st birthday.
Most of all I love how God brought her into my life 27 years ago and that she found it possible to love me as she does.
Happy Anniversary to my best friend, lover and love of my life.


The Naz is the place for the community of Grove City to connect with each other and with the resources that grow healthy people and strong families. Whether your need is spiritual, physical, emotional, or relational, The Naz is the place to help you take your next steps...
The world is full of talkers. We can complain about the state of our world and pray to God to help make changes. How many of us actually take the time to hear God calling us to do what He did.
Can we step out of our comfort zone and GO to the places where God is wanting to take His Grace? Will we be prepared to DO what he has called us to do? Over the next few weeks we will not only explore how this can be done - we will look at actual stories of people who are doing it! Are you ready . . .GO -> DO!
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