“Oh, St. Joseph, guardian of household needs, we know you don’t like to be upside down in the ground, but the sooner escrow closes the sooner we will dig you up and put you in a place of honor in our new home. Please bring us an acceptable offer (or any offer!) and help sustain our faith in the real estate market.”
According to FishEaters.com, that’s one version of the popular prayer offered up by home sellers after burying a statue of St. Joseph, hoping for a quicker sale.
Apparently, this odd custom dates back to 1515 when St. Teresa of Avila needed to build a new convent for her quickly growing Disalced Carmelite Order. Of course she needed to buy some land in order for this to happen but she and her fellow sisters didn’t have enough to purchase it. They turned to St. Joseph for help, burying medals with his picture on them in the ground where they wanted to build their convent. Their prayers were answered.
This method also worked for Andre Bessette, when he prayed to St. Joseph and buried a St. Joseph where he would eventually erect the Shrine of St. Joseph in Montreal, Canada.
Though the custom started out as a means of acquiring land, it changed throughout the centuries and is now performed by sellers who carefully bury a statue of St. Joseph, upside-down and covered in protective cloth, in the front yard of their property.
I recently posted a home staging business dilemma that alluded to this custom. I asked stagers what they would do if they wandered into a FSBO that had been on the market for years with the listing price having been dropped by $100,000 and all that had been done to prep it for sale was the burial of St. Joseph statues in the yard. (If you didn’t read it you can see that post here.)
Curiously enough, not many of you actually referenced this act in your feedback, choosing instead to talk about how you would approach the topic of home staging with the homeowner. A commenter named Peggy, however, did pick up on the St. Joseph reference, exactly as I’d hoped someone would when she said, “I would gently remind the client that in case she hadn’t heard, St. Joseph has been putting in some extreme overtime of late and that even the Good Lord ‘Helps those who help themselves!’ Of course I would admit to her that for ‘good measure,’ I too buried a St. Joseph statute in my yard (I did!) but then I did everything else in MY POWER to help him help me! And the utmost help I could offer was by staging my own home!”
Peggy cleverly added her own home staging success story in her comment when she wrote, “I would then tell her how my staged home sold to the first buyer through and how there were 3 back up offers in waiting! I would add that there were no less than 30 other homes on the market in my neighborhood alone at that time. I would then suggest she consider helping St. Joseph help her by setting up a time that she and I could discuss in greater detail the power and effectiveness of home staging!”
So while burying a statue of St. Joseph in the yard might help sell faster, it might be prudent to do the same thing Peggy did and ensure that the home is staged too (you know, just in case!) because as she added in her comment, “I would share with her my belief that, ‘In today’s real estate market, a home seller can’t take themselves or what they are trying to accomplish seriously until they have at least spoken to a home stager about how they can get their home sold faster and for the most money possible.’”
By the way, I confess I never even heard of this practice of burying a St. Joseph statue until a frustrated home seller called me to say that she’d tried it unsuccessfully for three years (!) and she was desperate and ready to try home staging instead. I sent her to the Staging Diva Directory of Home Stagers to locate a Staging Diva Graduate who could help her.
Have you heard of any other techniques home sellers have used besides home staging, price cuts and statues of St. Joseph? I’d love to hear your comments and share them in a future post.
Debra Gould, The Staging Diva®
President, Six Elements Inc. Home Staging
Debra Gould knows how to make money as a home stager and she developed the Staging Diva Training Program to teach others how to earn a living doing something they love.[tags] home staging, home stager, home stagers, home staging, home staging dilemma, St. Joseph statue, buried st joseph statue, staging diva[/tags]


|Gary Alan's Christian Oldies|
Gary Alan's Christian Oldies
Welcome to the home of Gary Alan's CHRISTIAN OLDIES. CHRISTIAN OLDIES is a one hour radio program originating in Medford, Oregon. Check our On The Radio page to see if CHRISTIAN OLDIES is available in your area. The focus of the program is the ministry of contemporary Christian music from 1965 to 1985.
Who is your favorite Christian Oldies artist? Our "Artists" page will show you the current results of our favorite artist poll. Don't forget to vote for your favorite artist.
Contemporary Christian Music has been in and around my family since I was very young. In the mid 60s I did all I could to get to concerts and to buy the music. I was either listening to it or singing it. God has given me incredible "on the job training" in the Christian music field. I was an announcer and music director in Christian Radio for several years. I served as a Sales & Marketing Representative for Christian Recording Companies and Sales Manager for a Distributor of Christian music. Over the years I've collected hundreds and hundreds of my favorite recordings on 8 tracks, reel to reel, LPs, cassettes and CDs. I know the effect that this music has had on my spiritual growth over the years. It is filled with God's word and I believe that is it's real power to change lives. My passion is to get this music into the ears and hearts of Gods people once again. It's message is not old and outdated but living and powerful and more up to date lyrically than tomorrows newspaper. I am dedicated to making contemporary Christian music of 1965 through 1985 available through the Christian Oldies radio program, this website and every other opportunity I have as God directs.
The Fingerprints of God
Gary has loved music all of his life. In the early 60s, he began singing Christian music in choirs and quartets. His first job in Christian radio was as announcer for KEAR in San Francisco, CA in 1974. Thats when he picked up the radio name of Gary Alan.
For almost two decades he prayed and watched for greater opportunities to use his talents (especially his voice) for the Lord. More than once he was told that he should start his own radio program. In early 2004, the Holy Spirit breathed life into an idea and the Christian Oldies radio program and ministry was born.
Gary had a home studio that he had been using for several years to provide voice recordings for various ministries and advertising agencies. He researched contemporary Christian music for 1965 to 1985 by going through his personal collection and by communicating with the folks at CCM Magazine. With the help of CCM and a growing network of other audiophiles, he carefully built a database of what were the most popular songs during that era. He sent out CDs, rough demos of the program to friends and family asking for their input. Over the next few months Christian Oldies was trademarked, he acquired the Christian Oldies domain, the first website went up on the internet 10/16/04 and the first Christian Oldies radio program was broadcast Saturday October 23rd on KDOV in Medford, OR.
Many lives have been touched by the ministry of this contemporary Christian music, old school.
I love that song! It is my dad's favorite. [Leon Patillo/J.E.S.U.S.]
I couldnt help but to just cry when I heard that song again. It took me back to a time when God was really working on me.
It's awesome to hear DeGarmo & Key again. They are my absolute favorite bar none.
My vote is for the Gaither Trio. The music of the Gaither's probably changed "popular" Christian music more than any other in the last 40 years.
*Mark D. I was saved in 1982 and the songs remind me of how God was working in my life then.
*Genna B. My absolute favorite contemporary Christian album of all time is "The Way" by the band "The Way" from Maranatha music. Their music is still anointed after all these years!*Jim G. I was saved in the early '80s. The songs remind me of what God was doing in my life in the early years of my faith. I was heavily into secular Rock N Roll. God replaced this with Contemporary Christian Music! The music of Christian Oldies blesses my heart.
Gary Alan: Host and producer of Christian Oldies
Stack of Stuff
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VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE CHRISTIAN OLDIES ARTIST/GROUP
Email us the name of your favorite Christian Oldies artist or group. We have the results of this poll on our "Artists" page. Only artists and groups who made recordings from 1965 to 1985 are included in this survey.


St. Louis native, Gregg Haynes was born to play the guitar. At the tender age of 10, he began to nurture his passion for music. Funds were not available for guitar lessons. Gregg's mother, the late Georgia Haynes laid hands on him with blessed oil and prayed that God would anoint him to play. Over the years, his skills would quickly develop as he played regularly at his dad’s church, St. Paul COGIC. Gregg’s exceptional gifting to play the guitar, coupled with his God-given anointing, opened many doors of opportunity for him.
The exuberant expressions of praise released as Haynes played, eventually led to him being dubbed as the man with the "Happy Guitar" so named by his cousin, Dr. Levi R. King, Sr.
Gregg was the accompanying guitarist for the award winning documentary film, "Say Amen Somebody" featuring Dr. Thomas A. Dorsey and many of the pioneers of gospel music. He has accompanied or recorded with many gospel greats such as Edwin Hawkins, Andrae` Crouch, Rance Allen, Kirk Franklin and the list goes on.
Haynes is also an ordained minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Elder Haynes and his lovely wife Shirley are co-presidents of the "Happy Guitar Music & Arts Foundation," a non-profit organization providing Mentorship, Music and Arts Education in the community.
Haynes has received national attention and rave reviews with more than 15 CDs and DVDs to his credit. The latest project is entitled: "Sanctified Groovin.'" 3 legendary guitarist
not competing, but completing one another.
Also Gregg released "The Story Behind The Glory" a book of Self Help and Motivation!
Get To Know Gregg "Happy Guitar" Haynes Better


For those who may not know the story about Cain and Abel, the short version goes like this;
Cain was the first born of Adam and Eve followed in short order by his brother, Abel. Cain was a farmer and Abel was a shepherd. Somewhere along the line they brought offerings of their respective bounty before the Lord and God liked Abel’s sheep but Cain’s fruit, not so much.
Cain got jealous and killed Abel. God came looking for them and asked Cain where was his brother. Have you ever heard the phrase, “Am I my brother’s keeper”? This is where it comes from. Anyway, God, being God, already knew what was up and banished Cain to the land of Nod.
This is where, if taken literally, the story gets a little sticky. First of all, Cain freaks out and is afraid whoever finds him will kill him. The question begs to be asked, who would find him? Up until now there are only the four of them, Adam, Eve, Cain and Abel. Who are these other people?
To make it even more interesting Cain goes to Nod and his wife bears him a son. Wait a second! Where did she come from? Where did the people of Nod come from?
Some will argue that, of course, Adam and Eve had more sons and daughters. They lived hundreds of years so there was plenty of time to populate more than a few cities. Remember, be fruitful and multiply.
But the thing is, taken literally, the next child Adam and Eve had was Seth, who came after Cain killed Abel. The only talk of having ‘other sons and daughters’ comes after the birth of Seth.
If we’re going to take it literally, we don’t get to make up stories to fill in the holes, and this story is littered with holes.1
After the birth of Seth there’s a whole list of people having children who had children who had children, etc.. And since these people were living upwards of 700 years, there was plenty of ‘being fruitful’ going on, and the earth was getting populated.
Not only that, but apparently the sons of God, whoever they were 2, were turned on by the human women and came in unto them, if you know what I mean. These women had children known as ‘mighty men’.3 Apparently these mighty men were giants or supermen or something.
So there you have it, aliens were having sex with human women and creating some sort of hybrid being. I’ll leave it to you conspiracy theorists to figure that one out, but there it is in black and white.4
1 But a lot of people believe it word for word.
2 Angels maybe?
3 Genesis 6:2-4
4 Conspiracy theorists, unite!


PRAISE AND WORSHIP 11:15 A.M. each Sunday
Official site of Williams Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, Detroit, MI.
Copyright 2014 The Chapel LIFE Church
3100 Elmwood - Detroit, MI 48207 www.thechapellifechurch.org 313-924-8907
Our VISION is to be a place where the hurting, depressed, frustrated and confused can find Love, Acceptance, Help, Hope, Forgiveness, Guidance and Encouragement.
"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.
I have come that they may have LIFE,
and that they may have it more abundantly."


23, or are playing with, pet waste water, planet, on water pollution. We had some sickness and didn’t go to church two Sundays and I had only my kiddos in Sunday school another week. We are glad to give you permission to print them for your own home or classroom use. 11 Combo Update, Mac OS X Update, R for Mac OS X, and many more programsMac OS X Leopard DVD 10. I decided to make a cross with cubbies and have the kids write a prayer on their paper on the first day of Sunday school with the instructions that we would read them on the last day of class and discuss their outcomes. the Sunday School is not as prevalent today as it once was. First Communion Journal (Catholic Icing) Sacrament of Holy Eucharist File Folder Game (The Catholic Toolbox). The Good Samaritan Crossword Puzzle- Parables Posted by A. August 18, 2019: A Covenant To Marry - RUTH 3:1–6, 8–12, 16–18. Beginning with the concept that the Bible is an adventure book, these lessons take your kids to a different country and language group each Sunday!. Come, Follow Me Resources Visit lessons and other teaching materials available for teachers of youth. Join us as Penn Jillette, Michael Goudeau, Matt Donnelly, and YOU discuss the news of the week. Individual Sunday School Lessons: These are 45 minute to 1 hour format lessons. Young visited the church to teach Sunday school with Carter on Aug. If you are looking for a good wreath, Amazon Has A Great Selection. These Bible based games are fun and challenging. Books of Old Testament Song (Wav file) Books of the New Testament Song (Wav File) My God Is So Big (Includes three versions with hand motions) Zacchaeus Kid's Song Video. Crystal River Publishing is pleased to offer our comprehensive, visual-rich Early Bible Curriculum for your pre-school, pre-K or early elementary Children's Church program, ages 2 thru 8 years old. The Gospel Changes Lives! A successful Jesus-centered ministry starts with a comprehensive plan—a plan that builds year upon year from birth through preteen with a proven scope & sequence and age-appropriate lessons. The lessons and activities listed below are completely free and great for use at home, in a Christian school, or in an ongoing Bible study at church such as Sunday School. These Sunday school lessons can be taught cold. These games can be used along with the Bible lesson to give the children a new way to remember Bible facts. Youth Sunday School is only taught on the 1st and 3rd Sunday, so we have combined multiple weeks in each packet. Word Games. Great for children's church, child evangelism, learning the bible, and for reviewing sunday school lessons. And once everyone has gathered at the front or in the aisles, invite members of the congregation to come forward to place a hand on the shoulder of each one while you pray for God's blessing on their year as they learn, as they teach, and as they live out their faith in whatever school God has placed them. Many of the activities came from a list printed in Church News in 1983. Words to Sunday School Songs. Below are some links to worship service and Sunday School activities to help your congregation celebrate the "Blessing of the Backpacks. The prayer has a rhyming nature - you may wish to consider teaching the first verse of this prayer to your children for them to memorize and say each week at the beginning of your sessions. About School Games. In this free Sunday school craft, children make a beautiful flower to remind them to be thankful for all God does. These are printables that I created to use in my Sunday School class. The Good Samaritan Crossword Puzzle- Parables Posted by A. 525 The blessing may be given. Fall is here and Sunday school teachers are looking for Christian Fall craft ideas to keep children busy. About School Games. The Adult Sunday School The Adult Sunday School is the weekly commentary of Jed Greenough on the scripture covered by the International Sunday School Lessons known by some as the Uniform Series. These bible lessons are on the Old Tetsament and New Testament stories of the bible. All of God's children, young and old, were encouraged to bring their backpacks, laptops, graphing calculators, planners, smartphones, paintbrushes, car keys, cookbooks - any of the tools used to help work and learn. Sign up today for exclusive deals, discounts, and special offers! Join. Beliefnet c. Children's Bible Stories Stories by Allan McNabb. Church House Collection has free Sunday school lessons that comes with matching materials such as coloring pages, Bible snack ideas, printables, templates, Sunday school crafts, Bible puzzles, and more. has established itself as one of the fastest-growing lubrication product lines in the consumer automotive aftermarket, featuring a line of engine oils, greases, gear lubes, problem-solving additives, and car-care products. CELEBRANT: With your fatherly blessing, Lord,. Now, let’s pray and thank God for our blessings and pray for a blessing for others as well. May your purse always carry a shilling or two. Olympic Gold Medalist Dan Gable once said, "After you’ve wrestled, everything else in life is easy. 2 days ago · The University of Florida's band director says he was attacked Saturday night after the school's football game against the University of Miami in Orlando. If you're looking for lesson plans, crafts, games, tips, tricks, and a little laugh now and again then you're in the right place!. 1 Church instruction > 12. The Good Samaritan Crossword Puzzle- Parables Posted by A. Youth Sunday School Come, Follow Me New Testament 2019 June 17–23 Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 19 “It Is Finished” AND June 24–30 Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20–21 “He Is Risen” AND July 1–7 Acts 1–5 “Ye Shall Be Witnesses unto Me” Printable Lesson Packet for Latter-day Saints. SUNDAY SCHOOL activities here are for LDS and General Christian. If this blessing is given during Mass on Sunday, the Mass of the day is celebrated. Great for children's church, child evangelism, learning the bible, and for reviewing sunday school lessons. 525 The blessing may be given. New Apostolic Church International Home > Catechism > 12 Divine service, acts of blessing, and pastoral care > 12. SundaySchoolCenter. com as a way to share my ideas with you. Click on these links to access the Sunday School Lessons for the week. Palm Sunday marked the start of what is often called “Passion Week,” the final seven days of Jesus’ earthly ministry. We scoured the internet (and Pinterest) for the very best Bible games-and by that we mean active, fun, and meaningful!. Summer 2019 Words of the Day Quiz. Free Sunday School Lessons for Youth. If you are looking for Thanksgiving Sunday School Lessons and Crafts for Kids, you're in the right place! This page includes the FREE text for a Thanksgiving Sunday School Lesson that you can use at your church this Thanksgiving season. Prayerfully casting your cares on God while offering thanks for your blessings, results in a happy and joyful life -- you'll rejoice in the Lord. We invite you to take advantage of our FREE LESSON OFFER! You will receive a complete weekly lesson FREE to keep and use. Lisa Robertson has been a leader in women's ministry for over 20 years, as a Bible study teacher, speaker and author of Advent: Making Christmas about Christ. Bible Basis: 1 Samuel 1:9-20 Bible Truth: Hannah, in deep despair, prays for a son and God answers her prayer. Kid’s Journal Page – Going the Second Mile. Regular season of high school football kicks off Thursday. We read the story of Daniel in the…. See more ideas about Bible activities, Bible activities for kids and Sabbath school lesson. Youth Sunday School Lesson Helps - December: Christmas: How can I share my testimony that Jesus Christ is the Son of God? How Can I Become a Better Leader? December Youth Sunday School Lesson Packet by Debra Woods How can I understand the symbols used to teach about the Second Coming? Lesson Helps for December Youth Sunday School Lesson. Sunday School Teacher of the Month. Trends Sunday, April 1, 2018. Many of the activities came from a list printed in Church News in 1983. How to Spring Clean Your Car Like a Pro. Stolen Blessing Tent Craft from Gospel Hall. Click any certificate design to see a larger version and download it. Today, my preschoolers made them as part of their lesson about Phillip and the Ethiopian eunuch, but it's adaptable for any baptism story (Lydia, John the Baptist, etc. You do not need to use all the numbers. Exclusive discount for Prime members. Add some fun to your children’s ministry with these 101 Game ideas for Sunday School. Word Games. The obvious conclusion is that Sunday school really had no impact on what children believed in these critical areas. The goal of teaching Sunday school centers around making disciples It actually makes a lot of sense why this is the goal of so many Sunday school teachers. These games can be used along with the Bible lesson to give the children a new way to remember Bible facts. Sometimes, when we talk about God blessing us, people only think of blessings in terms of things like money, houses, cars, and clothes. Thank you Kids Sunday School Place for being part of JDP Kids Ministry and blessing each child in our ministry. Try Sunday school crafts, and allow kids to express their creative side while considering a Bible message. Jacob and Rebekah deceived Isaac and Esau, but God knew before they were born ; Vocabulary:blessing: blessing is a sign of special favor that is intended to result in prosperity and success (Baker's Evangelical Dictionary of Biblical Theology). Flower delivery is easy at 1-800-Flowers. He had a very difficult night trying to call him without being answered the night before yet he couldn't leave his wife on the middle of the night. Declare that His solutions prepares another generation for life. In Kenya many Churches have concentrated, on Bible school, Man ministry, Youth Women etc, but Children have been totally forgotten, its so rare to find a Sunday school programme or training, you Children in Kenya are growing up without having a foundation of the word of God. May a rainbow chase after each spot of rain. The season of Advent, which comes from the Latin word adventus meaning “coming” or “visit," begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. BLESSING MASK: Cut a big circle in a large piece of poster board. This video meditation features an empowering blessing, written by the Rev. The right Sunday School games and activities can take a class from ho-hum to I can’t wait to come back next week! Kids often learn best when engaged in creative play, and with these easy activity ideas, you may have the most fun of all. Ruth and Boaz The story of Ruth and Boaz is a beautiful story of love and redemption. Prayer Tower Sunday School Activity. 2 days ago · The University of Florida's band director says he was attacked Saturday night after the school's football game against the University of Miami in Orlando. com is a great resource for Sunday school teachers. Sunday School High Attendance Promotions. Feb 9, 2019- Explore Jennie Bean's board "blessings/ Sunday School Teacher", followed by 189 people on Pinterest. Free resources for Kids Sunday School and Children's Church. President Carter’s Sunday School class begins at 10:00 A. Free Bible Class Curriculum for Sunday School. I am going to use this game for Easter, but I plan to use it for some of my Sunday School lessons by making up my own questions because I know they will like it better and will have fun learning while playing the game and not even realize they are learning about a Bible lesson. some people of today resort to illegal activities to make ends meet. Growing in Christ Sunday School by CPH Discovering God's Good Gifts In a Growing in Christ Sunday School classroom, children hear the Good News of Christ's death and resurrection in every lesson and are exposed to a substantial scope of Bible stories from early on!. During the service, ask them to come forward with their backpacks. To start “PlayMemories Home” from the Start menu, click [Start] [All Programs] (PlayMemories Home). Include the Blessing in Your Worship Service. " This milestone is a great outreach to the local community as well as a wonderful Welcome Back event for your congregations families. Thomas Alexander has been on staff for the summer with the Episcopal Church in Arkansas. Ministry Matters™ is a community of resources for church leaders. In Kenya many Churches have concentrated, on Bible school, Man ministry, Youth Women etc, but Children have been totally forgotten, its so rare to find a Sunday school programme or training, you Children in Kenya are growing up without having a foundation of the word of God. A Child's Ten Request-ments - for Sunday school or Christian School. So the Blessing of the Backpacks should be done in front of as many people as possible. At the beginning of Sunday school, give each teen a sheet of paper filled with the names of all the other teens in the class. Since it was already late, Jesus said, "Give them something to eat. com is a great resource for Sunday school teachers. backpack blessings This blessing was shared at Calvary Lutheran Church, Grand Forks, as a way of celebrating and blessing the beginning of a new school year. Find nearby businesses, restaurants and hotels. The Essence of Thanksgiving A visitor to America from outer space in late November might conclude that we worship the turkey goddess. These wordsearch and crossword puzzles will help teach biblical facts. Meet at a local coffee shop (or another relaxed environment), connect, discuss a spiritual topic and close in prayer. Come, Follow Me Resources Visit lessons and other teaching materials available for teachers of youth. All of these Sunday school resources are excellent children’s ministry ideas for getting kids involved in your Sunday school lessons. For any reuse or distribution of this Thankfulness Quotes - the What, Who, and When of Thankfulness Sunday School lesson or any of our free Bible study materials author credit and web address is required. (For Grades 3-6) In this noisy and rambunctious game, children will learn the books of the Bible and where to find them. DiscipleLand's family of Bible resources forms a comprehensive Children's Discipleship System™—an intentional, relational, and transformational process designed to help make disciples for life. There are a lot of good churches, and even some great ones; but there is only one Broadway Assembly! What binds us together as a faith family is our common mission, our deep love for Christ, our unyielding commitment to the Bible as God’s Word, and our determination to make a difference in the world. Help your teen and her group reflect on the blessings in their lives and all of the positive characteristics of their peers. So if you are in a pinch as what to do at your next event give these printable Bible Games a. For if the Gentiles. The great saint Archdeacon Habib Girgis strived to improve Sunday School significantly, to produce an academic standard to the Sunday School experience. Sunday, 11/11/2018 HOWA - 1500 300 WIN MAG 26 THREADED HEAVY BARRELED ACTION now only $349. These topics/pictures might include soldiers, the sick, family members, daily needs, the church and all the needy. These fun prayer activities will teach your kids how to pray and why praying is an important part of their relationship with God. Sunday School Lessons Review based on International Sunday School Lessons *You can get these Sunday School Lessons sent every week to your email! Words From Our Subscribers: "Thank you for your faithfulness in providing the Sunday School Lessons each week. Sunday Church School is an important part of the life of a Christian, from birth until death, because it is here that you grow in your faith, learn the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, and Ten Commandments. A collection of free Christian Church and School Prayers for children - Church and School Prayers for kids. Just Us Little Guys Sunday School Center Genesis – Lesson 8 www. I took it and made this review game. Games are an enjoyable way to learn -- and can be an appropriate activity for a teen Sunday school class. ChildrensMinistry. As she explains in the books, when a class takes a break for a. Tonight we finished up our lessons with this craft. Teens and tweens can explore faith through games in Sunday school. MSSS - Crafts and Resources for Bible Stories. The second half of today's post will include a game. Use Sunday school lessons for kids on praising God to teach students what the Bible has to say about worshipping and praising God through discussion and activities related to passages from the Bible. Metal allergies can make wearing any type of jewelry, most especially wrist watches, itchy and painful. These Bible based games are fun and challenging. Post navigation ← RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL LESSON 43: THE BLESSEDNESS OF FRUITFULNESS-JUNE 26, 2016 RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL LESSON 45: "LIKE FATHER LIKE SON "-JULY 10, 2016 -JULY 3, 2016 →. Christian Crafts, Games, Skits, Hands-On Bible Lessons, Sunday School. One of the ways we, as a congregation, help you do this is through our Sunday Church School Program. Aspiring to Strengthen Faith, Confidence, and Joy in Jesus Christ. First, explain that a covenant is a promise made between two parties, in this case, God and his people. Blessing The blessing of catechists follows the general intercessions. Meet Team ISSD! Meet the ISSD. I am going to have our Sunday school (very small in number) colour in the sheets, then I will laminate them and bind them. Whether your church has ten pews or a thousand seats, a praise band or a pipe organ, one-room-Sunday school or a network of small groups, a huge staff or just you. Ministry Matters™ is a community of resources for church leaders. Get a round-up of stories from The Sunday Post every week. Send this Sunday School page to a friend Subscribe to our Sunday School Lessons mailing list today! Every Monday evening you will receive easy to understand lesson summaries directly to your email in King James Version , or New International Version King James Version , or New International Version. A book can be crafted into a book and quill, which can be used to create written books. Great ideas for Sunday School and children's ministry. Read reviews, compare customer ratings, see screenshots, and learn more about Children's Bible Games for Kids, Family and School. com Just Us Little Guys Page 5 ©2012, Sharon Kay Chatwell Birthright and Blessing – The children will create coupons for Birthright and Blessing. Makingfriends. These bible lessons are on the Old Tetsament and New Testament stories of the bible. We praise and thank you for the gift of this school year. Jacob's Dream - Ladder to Heaven. We scoured the internet (and Pinterest) for the very best Bible games–and by that we mean active, fun, and meaningful!. These Bible based games are fun and challenging. We are providing you Quickbooks pro Full with 10 Years License. We are available to assist you Monday-Friday 8:00am - 4:30pm EST. What great love Jesus showed for these precious kids!. Sunday School Crafts: Prayer It’s been a few weeks since I posted a Sunday school craft idea. These readings complement the Sunday and festival readings: Thursday through Saturday readings help prepare the reader. com/37537/bible-coloring-pages/ http://niagaranissan. In today's lesson John wept. The Blessing Jar has been a tradition in my family for several years. SundaySchoolCenter. Free subscribers can search and share thousands of articles and resources. worship service. Before you purchase anything, you might search around online to see what sorts of resources you can access for low cost or even free. 8:30AM and 11:00AM Sunday School: 9:45-10:45AM On a fifth. Teachers in the youth Sunday school department can organize Bible trivia and Bible charades competitions, scenarios where teens must decide how to respond ethically, and Bible scrambles where teens must unscramble a Bible verse from a pile of paper strips that contain single. Review Activities Page I believe all classroom activities and games should serve to reinforce the lesson and its application. Vacation Bible School using World Sunday School. sunday school activities. Sword drills, where teens race to see who can find a Bible passage the fastest encourages teens to learn where to find each book of the Bible. o Games : Bagi Anak-anak beberapa kelompok, Kemudian suruh setiap kelompok untuk menuliskan sesuatu rencana apa yang mereka lakukan kepada kelompok lain, lalu (Rahasia) setelah selesai kumpulkan kertas itu dan masing-masing kelompok melakukan sendiri apa yang mereka tulis barusan. - The Best Game - This game showcases hidden and incredibly random talents and skills. How To Go To Heaven. This video meditation features an empowering blessing, written by the Rev. So, what about Sunday School?. Let’s take the gifts that you’ve been given and bless someone else. Free Thanksgiving Game & Black Friday Sale Happy Thanksgiving Week. The laptop owner can run the laptop while the kid's decide on the answer to be chosen. Suggested Activities: Adult Journal Page – Love Your Enemies. I could not find a game for Balaam when I was teaching it a few years ago. Find out more. The first is a short opening prayer for children to say before the class. That’s an example of how, though we don’t have to earn God’s blessing, certain types of lifestyles result in being blessed. We compared wedding receptions of today to those in bible times. 389 likes · 4 talking about this. PDF Printable Sunday School Lesson Pack (With easy to read instructions following the P. Official MapQuest website, find driving directions, maps, live traffic updates and road conditions. Simple Origami Noah’s Ark at Origami Make. Check back soon for our collection of children's songs. Review Activities Page I believe all classroom activities and games should serve to reinforce the lesson and its application. Sunday School Technology Ministry Transportation Ministry Trustees Ushers, Nurses and Welcome Com Women's Ministry Worship and Arts (Music) Youth Ministry. Penny Dell Sunday Crossword x. Accurate and Reliable Information about Christ the King Sunday: History, Prayers, FAQ, and More Christ the King Sunday Officially called "The Feast of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King," it is celebrated on the final Sunday of Ordinary Time, the Sunday before Advent. VBS Director / Sunday School Teacher I pray this is a blessing to you. Children get a chance to stretch their legs and get out some of their energy, while still learning at the same time. As she explains in the books, when a class takes a break for a. Save 78% on $315 worth of youth ministry lessons for back to school and beyond! VIEW BUNDLE. Games can be easy too. 389 likes · 4 talking about this. But keeping the interest of today's technology-saturated kids takes a lot of creativity. Spring is just around the corner! Check out these tips for cleaning up your car so you’re. Blessing The blessing of catechists follows the general intercessions. Before Class: Provide a copy of the Birthright and Blessing activity sheet for each child. Best-selling author, Colleen Coble’s latest book, The Blessings Jar is a wonderful tool for teaching kids to count their blessings. This Sunday takes precedence over the three Holy Days which follow Christmas Day. Sunday School Lessons: These are 45 minute to 1 hour format lessons completing a full 13-week curriculum course. … Nanticoke finished with leads of 14-12 in first downs and 171-133 in rushing yards, but Pittston Area used an 86-22 advantage through the air for a 219-193 lead in total offense. Back to School Blessing Editable Document. - Build Tower Game - Great creative group game- See whose team can build the highest tower using newspapers! - Fishbowl - Fun-filled word and memory game- Charades, Taboo and Password combined! Little preparation required. Declare that His solutions prepares another generation for life. This page will help you prepare your Sunday school lesson on Mark on the Bible story of Jesus heals a paralytic. Below is a list of different games that we have found work well in a classroom setting. Tray of blessings: For this visual lesson, you need a deep tray or shallow basin plus many clear cups and glasses of varying sizes. At first glance, today's scripture appeared very simple too simple for a game. Here is a Sunday school lesson or Bible study on blessings from the Bible. Kid’s Journal Page – Going the Second Mile. This is "The Blessing - Sunday, July 21, 2019" by Shadow Mountain Community Church on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them. Count Your Blessings The song, Count Your Many Blessings, sums up these thoughts: When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,. See more ideas about Activities, Catechism and Crafts. Catholic Religious Education Lesson Plans - Laura's Favorite Religious Education Websites Thank you to Laura Grace , from St. Great ideas for Sunday School and children's ministry. What great love Jesus showed for these precious kids!. Sunday School Lesson Key Points-January 7, 2018 Daniel and his friends had a new home, strange new names, new teachings, and were even offered a new diet; but they kept the same same heart dedication to the Lord. These games can be used along with the Bible lesson to give the children a new way to remember Bible facts. This blessing may be used at special family visits (such as holidays), at the beginning or end of a visit, or at another appropriate time. blessing at home, across the street and around the world. I created this game with numbers 1-8 as we have a LOT of people in our family. Ten Commandments Crafts for Preschoolers Inspirational Fruit Of the Spirit Bible Crafts and Bible Games for Sunday School Back to 72 Ten Commandments Crafts for Preschoolers Fruit of the Spirit Bible Crafts and Bible Games For Sunday School from ten commandments crafts for preschoolers , source:daniellesplace. Post navigation ← RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL LESSON 43: THE BLESSEDNESS OF FRUITFULNESS-JUNE 26, 2016 RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL LESSON 45: "LIKE FATHER LIKE SON "-JULY 10, 2016 -JULY 3, 2016 →. Sunday School Games About Prayer Prayer is a fundamental skill for any Christian to learn, and we want to reinforce it in our classrooms in a fun and memorable way. That’s an example of how, though we don’t have to earn God’s blessing, certain types of lifestyles result in being blessed. God Answers Prayer. format on how to conduct each lesson with areas for adding personal notes): Sunday School Lesson - Love Your Enemies. How to Spring Clean Your Car Like a Pro. Here is a Sunday school lesson or Bible study on blessings from the Bible. Large type makes Primary Bible Learner easy for primaries to read on their own. Memory Verse: 1 Samuel 1:17 Lesson AIM: By the end of this lesson, we will: RECALL the story of Hannah's desperate longing for a child; REFLECT on longings for God to intervene in our lives; and PRAY with confidence that God will provide what is best for us. Check out these Bible games for kids! Kids love playing these Bible games in your Sunday school, midweek program, children's church, or even at home. DiscipleLand's family of Bible resources forms a comprehensive Children's Discipleship System™—an intentional, relational, and transformational process designed to help make disciples for life. A blog with ideas to aid us on our life's journey to perfecting ourselves and our families. This Litany of Blessing for Teachers, Leaders and Students can be used to celebrate both the public school year getting underway as well as the Church. Thanksgiving Prayers and Dinner Blessings A simple definition meaning a short prayer expressing gratitude - literally giving thanks for food on a daily basis. Make it is a substance organic, causes and pollution in pakistan. Age 2–Grade 6: Strong Kids Introducing the brand new Sunday School Strong Curriculum designed for all ages that will help build stronger churches through teaching all Scripture to produce spiritually mature believers who measure up to the. AIM: The aim of the ‘Belt of Truth’ Sunday School Lesson (Ephesians 6:14) is to teach the children what it means to wear the belt of truth and to have the truth of Jesus in their lives, holding them together. Back to School Blessings PDF. I started Creative-Sunday-School-Ideas. Shortly after supper break they had an Easter Egg Hunt for the children who attended. Metal allergies can make wearing any type of jewelry, most especially wrist watches, itchy and painful. We invite you to take advantage of our FREE LESSON OFFER! You will receive a complete weekly lesson FREE to keep and use. Noah’s Ark Book to Create. Spring is just around the corner! Check out these tips for cleaning up your car so you’re. 1 Instruction of children > 12. These are printables that I created to use in my Sunday School class. May your purse always carry a shilling or two. 1 Church instruction > 12. As a member at LeaveAMark, you have access to thousands of Bible Study resources for your small group, family, and children. Play free kids games at Some School Games. Teachers in the youth Sunday school department can organize Bible trivia and Bible charades competitions, scenarios where teens must decide how to respond ethically, and Bible scrambles where teens must unscramble a Bible verse from a pile of paper strips that contain single. Lo nuevo de FL studio 11: Modo Performance: se pueden disparar clips del Playlist envivo, usando un ratón, pantalla táctil, teclado o controlador MIDI. Blessing Of The Backpack Tags. Prayers relating to Thanksgiving Day can be accessed by clicking Thanksgiving Prayers. Find nearby businesses, restaurants and hotels. Now, let’s think of someone that we can give it too. How many H. Stop calling it Sunday “school”. Blessing of the Animals The blessing of pets and animals is often celebrated on October 4, the feast of St. Sword drills, where teens race to see who can find a Bible passage the fastest encourages teens to learn where to find each book of the Bible. Gaming can get expensive whether you are using an Xbox, playstation, DS, or some other type of console. I could even hand one to an untrained parent or volunteer in an emergency and it would work. Jesus Gives Us Mouths and Wisdom. 1 Instruction of children > 12. (AP) — Mourners used colored markers to write messages on Keyla Salazar's white casket before a funeral Tuesday for the middle-school teenager killed in a mass shooting at a. Simple crafts and activities that teach children about the love of Jesus!. validation code for quickbooks 2013 Dec– QuickBooks Pro 2013 All Versions Activator is one of the most famous application. A Prayer for Sunday School Day Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Free Thanksgiving Game & Black Friday Sale Happy Thanksgiving Week. and 10:00 a. How to use blessing in a sentence. Sunday School Lessons & Curriculum for Kids More than just a Sunday morning activity, Sunday School is a time to tackle real life issues, present the story of redemption, and have spiritual conversations with kids that could transform their lives forever. *FREE* shipping on qualifying offers. May the sun always play on your window pane. the Sunday School is not as prevalent today as it once was. In this sweet story, Punky Grace is encouraged by her grandmother to turn a bad day into a good one by stopping along the way to recognize the many ways God blesses her day. We're revamping our Sunday School materials for children. Book Mark for Back to School Prayers PDF. Sunday School Activities for Kids Teaching my children about Jesus is one of my greatest passions. 1,Windows 8,Windows 7 ,Microsoft Windows Server 2012,Microsoft Office 2010 , 2013 , 2016 and more. This HBLT Lesson #1, begins a new series in Ephesians 1:3-14, and it’s for September 1, 2019. Decorating your Sunday School Classroom can get expensive. Easter Sunday School Teacher's Guides Contributed by Leanne Guenther These teacher's guides pull together children's version Bible stories, songs, crafts, coloring and recipes to guide Sunday School teachers or parents in teaching the Easter story. Download Children's Bible Games for Kids, Family and School and enjoy it on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Individual Sunday School Lessons: These are 45 minute to 1 hour format lessons. 1 day ago · There are many ways for a church to have a lasting impact on its local community. Free Bible Lessons for children aged Preschool-2nd grade. PDF Printable Sunday School Lesson Pack (With easy to read instructions following the P. com) Baptism is an important event in the life of a young Christian. But keeping the interest of today's technology-saturated kids takes a lot of creativity. A big like" from me and may God use this len to bless more people. Blessing the Backpacks is one way to celebrate the return to school. When the weather is nice, Sunday School teacher may get a chance to take their students outside for some fun games. The second half of today's post will include a game. We believe that Christian Education is a lifelong process – we never stop learning! Sunday School is an opportunity for kids ages 3 through 18 to learn and grow in the Christian faith. Jacob's Dream - Ladder to Heaven. it is a good idea for my children. Save 78% on $315 worth of youth ministry lessons for back to school and beyond! VIEW BUNDLE. com provides free Sunday School lessons, review activities and games, songs, trading card files, and teaching tips for primary and junior level church classes. It’s only been available to download in full for a day, but Ableton Live 10 has already become the most talked about subject in the music tech world. Sunday school teachers should take the opportunity to have children memorize a Harvest-themed Bible verse. The first is a short opening prayer for children to say before the class. They are intended for children ages 3-6. Come, Follow Me Resources Visit lessons and other teaching materials available for teachers of youth. The blessings we receive are supposed to flow through to others, not stop with us. Justin Martyr Sunday School Program is now in session! St. The prayer has a rhyming nature - you may wish to consider teaching the first verse of this prayer to your children for them to memorize and say each week at the beginning of your sessions. Organizing Priesthood Sunday Activities What can we do to help our parishioners honor our priest[s] on Priesthood Sunday? Work with the pastor, the deacon[s], parish staff, Parish Council, Parish Finance Council, and volunteers to discuss the possibility of organizing Priesthood Sunday on the weekend after Thanksgiving Day, or any weekend of. It was called “Sunday school or Starbucks?” I had no idea how many people would show up but knew that my own experiences with adult Sunday school have not always been ideal. These are free Sunday School Lessons which you may download and use as is or use as a resource to help you in your teaching ministry. The Advent Wreath is a popular tradition related to Advent, the Church season immediately before Christmas. by SundayPost.


‘The Gathering’ community group is meeting at 11:00 am Sunday mornings in room E 214 of the Education Building. We also host meals monthly and have a wide variety of fun events! If you are in your 20’s to early 30’s (single or married), please come join us to develop friendships and enjoy fellowship with others in your same life stage.
If you would like Tim or Lisa to call you, send a text message with your name to 720-217-7964 and one of us will call you.
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful; 24 and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging [one another;] and all the more as you see the day drawing near. [Heb 10:23-25 NASB95]


The Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces. Isaiah 25:8
The celebration of the Christian funeral brings hope and consolation to the living. While proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and witnessing to Christian hope in the resurrection, the funeral rites also recall to all who take part in them God's mercy and judgment and meet the human need to turn always to God in times of crisis.
If you have recently lost a loved one and need to plan a funeral, please call the Parish Office, 303-233-6236. The Funeral Ministry will meet with you to arrange a date, schedule a priest, and plan the Liturgy. Although many mortuaries contact the parish and cemetery as plans are being made, it is imperative for the family to establish contact with the Parish Office.
To pre-plan a Funeral Liturgy with the help of our clergy, please call the Parish Office, 303-233-6236. By pre-planning, your family is relieved of making these decisions in their time of grief. Planning ahead simplifies the process of selecting scripture readings, music and logistics of the Liturgy. When these decisions are made in advance, the burden placed on family members is lifted at an emotionally sensitive time, and the timeframe between initial contact and the funeral can be greatly reduced.
The date, time and place for the Vigil, Liturgy and burial must be coordinated with the family, parish and mortuary so scheduling conflicts will be avoided. Because of the busy weekend Mass schedule and extensive use of the Halls on weekends, funerals are not held on Saturday or Sunday at Our Lady of Fatima. With all the coordination that is necessary, it can take as much as four or five business days from initial contact for a funeral to take place.
A priest from Our Lady of Fatima will normally be the celebrant at the Funeral Liturgy. However, there may be situations where a personal family friend or family member who is a priest will be the preferred celebrant. This is an acceptable practice at Our Lady of Fatima.
Once a date and time for the Funeral Liturgy has been scheduled, a meeting will be setup with the Priest and family members to refine the details of the Liturgy and implement wishes. Parish staff will arrange for musicians, Altar Servers, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, and any others who need to be involved in the services.
The Mass, the memorial of Christ's death and resurrection, is the principal celebration of the Christian funeral. However, a funeral liturgy outside Mass is an optional rite which may be used for various reasons:


Our Maronite Jewelry is a custom design exclusive to Cappiello Jewelers. Each piece is custom made to symbolize faith and hope.
Herco offers 14KT & 18KT gold jewelry in white, yellow, and pink. Additionally, we carry items in platinum, palladium, silver, and stainless steel.
The Maronite Cross is also referred to as an Antiochene Cross. Antioch, an ancient city in present day Turkey, was converted to Christianity through the ministry of the apostle Paul and fellow missionary Barnabas.
Saint Peter was the first bishop and the Church extended its territory, becoming one of the original patriarchates. These were the first people to be called ‘Christians’ and the Church of Antioch can justifiably claim to be Pretty Old.
A few hundred years passed and by 518, dogmatic squabbling split the Church into two groups: the Chalcedonians and the monophysitic anti-Chalcedonians. A century later, the Chalcedonians divided into the Syriacs, the Maronites and the Melkites each of which had its own Patriarch. By the 7th century, the Assyrians and the Armenians also had their own Patriarch, and by the 12th century the Latin Patriarch was established.


Today, our world strives on negativity. It can be found in our politics, in our communities, and in our homes. This powerful state of mind is like a drug-- it will significantly hurt your life the more you invest in it. Prince Ea once said, "A thought is like a cloud-- it comes an it goes but it says and it grows if you give it the power too." To often, the thoughts we grow in our head are negative ones, and its these thoughts are what have the biggest impact on our lives.
Something that I have witnessed day in and day out at school is how quickly these negative thoughts spread. There are people who are addicted to this drug of negativity; they are constantly in search of something they can argue about. A simple remark about a recent political action springs into an argument, which springs into a personal, insult hurling yelling match. I am astonished about how the way some people live their lives. I cant imagine living my life in constant search for an argument. Its so much more than "expressing" self-opinion-- it's forcing negativity onto people that don't know how to take it. The same people who are complaining about the divide in our country are continuing to grow it. Our perspective and outlook on the world is backwards. Instead of focusing on what people should be doing, focus on what you can be doing.
The best way that I have found to go about the issues of negativity is to remember that God always wins. No matter the argument, no matter the issue, no matter the person, God is always in charge. Negativity to me is just a way of distracting us from the good that is happening. God brings us together, just trust in Him! Our culture moves from one issue to the next without ever seeing the end of it. As soon as the negativity starts to end on one issue, we jump right on to the next story. Its so easy to jump on this negativity train, but its the opposite of what we are created to do. Instead of being apart of the negativity train, lets create some kind of positive change! Lets be the generation that gets stuff done, instead of getting stuck in the cycle of political agendas. God wants us to break free from this negative cycle! We can't get caught up in silly arguments that don't do anything. We must be apart of something big. Something that God wants us to do. In order to bring our communities together, we must simply understand that God is the ruler over everything; our negative remarks and arguments get nothing done! It doesn't matter what side of the political spectrum your find yourself on. It doesn't matter how rich or poor you are. It doesn't matter how well your educated. God rules over all of us, and we must put our faith in Him instead of keeping our attention on the negativity cycle that sucks us in and takes our lives. And if He rules over all of us, then put the ego aside and help someone today. One person is not better than the next.
Please feel free to comment your thoughts!


Sunday 29 September, 3.00pm
Celebrating 90 years of City Church (or City Temple as many still remember it) with a service of joyful worship, stories from both the history and current life of the church and information on our plans to Bless the children of Cardiff in our Anniversary year.
FREE TICKETED EVENT. Tickets directly available from City Church:
Tel: 07968 861 269
PLEASE NOTE: Running times are approximate and supplied for guidance only. They may be subject to change.


Hartland Bible Institute is a local church ministry that was established for the following purpose:
- To train men to be Bible Believing, Baptist preachers & missionaries
- To fully equip men/woman in the scriptures who know the book, can rightly divide the Word and effectively communicate it to bless the saints
- To help any Christian who desires a better understanding of the Bible for their own benefit
- To aid in fulfilling the great commission
- To promote the Local Church
Beginning 2015, students from another "likeminded" church outside of Victory Baptist with approval from their Pastor, or approved by Pastor Guenther may be admitted to the institute 2015-2016 Teachers Pastor Ryan Guenther, Bro. Gary Petrie, and Dr. Bill Grady.


Have you ever felt alone, unsupported, not understood, doubted about your capabilities, abilities and wisdom in everything that you do, especially when it comes to your dreams, burning desire in your hearts and souls?
It is ok if the people around you don’t understand your journey. It just means that you don’t need it. Only you can know what is true for you and the purpose of your own journey.
Thank them for giving you even more fuel to light up that burning fire within you even stronger and brighter to trust in you, your journey and dreams. It is one of the most priceless gifts from them, from life to get you to let go of self-doubt and embrace your self-trust and trust in God within you. The more you trust you, the more you hear God within. Believe in you and your dreams with conviction no matter what. Everything else or everybody else who is not in alignment with you is just a distraction. Let go of all those distractions even if that includes letting go of friends, relationships, whoever or whatever that disempowers you or drags you down. Nobody and nothing can stop you. The only person who can stop you is... you. Keep going with more self-love, self-trust, trust in God within you, that heart and soul calling within you no matter what. You are unstoppable and indestructible. You are a warrior of love, light, truth, knowing and wisdom. You are that big, that huge, that magnificent, that powerful and potent. Don’t ever dim your light. Choose to shine your light even more brightly and unapologetically. Choose to surround yourself with those who believe in you and empower you as you believe in you. Start with you first. Always... One step at a time. You got this.


The Liturgical Choir is the primary Choir of the University of Notre Dame's Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Its repertoire is drawn on the diverse traditions of a cappella and accompanied sacred music from the Renaissance through the twentieth century. The Choir, sponsored by Campus Ministry, provides musical leadership for the Basilica's 10 am Sunday Mass as well as a variety of other Basilica and University liturgies such as Sunday Vespers, weddings, building dedications, ordinations, Advent Lessons & Carols and special University liturgies such as Junior Parents' Weekend and the Baccalaureate Mass. Holy Week is especially important to the Choir, who sings for Palm Sunday, Tenebrae, the Good Friday Celebration of the Lord's Passion, the Easter Vigil, Easter Mass, and Easter Vespers.
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Liturgical Choir Welcomes New Members
Last week, we had our first rehearsal with the newest members of Team LC! We are about 70 members strong and are looking forward to a great year!
August 25, 2018 ● Kelly, Tara
The Liturgical Choir's Concession Stand
Come stop by our concession stand at the Pitt game on October 13th! We will be located just south of the Snite near DeBartolo Hall. Help support the Liturgical Choir!
"It's hard to believe that I am entering my eighth year as director of the incredible Notre Dame Liturgical Choir. I strive to continue to build upon the foundations of my teacher and friend Dr. Gail Walton and pray often that she is pleased with my efforts. The Liturgical Choir just keeps getting better and better, not because of anything I am doing but because the Choir is gifted with incredible young Notre Dame women and men. The current student leadership is responsible for this fantastic new website and for that I am so grateful."


Some are aiming for women worship-leaders, lady preachers, and yes, even female elders. How does the conscientious Bible student distinguish the options of culture from the abiding obligations of divine command? First, no one has the right to assume that a divinely given instruction or practice is culturally conditioned unless there are contextual considerations which clearly indicate that such is the case.
For example, when Christ sent his disciples forth to proclaim the coming kingdom, he forbade them to preach to the Gentiles or Samaritans Matthew ff. Was this to be the case always? In other words, was this cultural circumstance to persist or was it limited to the immediate events? Clearly it was limited.
After the church was established, both Samaritans and Gentiles were granted the privilege of responding to the gospel Acts Thus, though the preaching mission of the apostles in the preparatory phase of the kingdom was culturally limited , as the Jews were being prepared for an acceptance of other peoples, such is not the case now. During his second missionary campaign when Paul came to Lystra, he had Timothy circumcised Acts Was this practice to persist as a divine demand or was it a culturally conditioned decision?
How is one to know? Certain false teachers in the early church attempted to bind circumcision as a matter of religious obligation, but the doctrine was summarily rejected by men acting under the guidance of the Spirit of God Acts , 28ff.
“Engaging the Culture” Doesn’t Work Because Christian Beliefs Are a Mark of Low Status
When Judaizers demanded the circumcision of Titus, Paul refused to yield to their dictates—even for an hour Gal. The New Testament expressly states that circumcision received as a matter of attempting to achieve salvation voids the work of Christ, for in Christ the ritual is valueless Gal. Thus, additional biblical information regarding circumcision puts the matter into clear focus.
Upon what basis, though, could one argue that immersion in water was a cultural phenomenon of antiquity and therefore not binding today? There is absolutely none! The New Testment teaches that the basic elements of Christianity were to be age-lasting.
They were not cultural influences on the religion. Consider these examples. Within this context the Lord authorized immersion into the name of the sacred Godhead. Moreover, the promised blessing—that Jesus would remain with His people unto the end of the world—was coexistent with the responsibility to be immersed. Hence, immersion would be a divine duty until the end of the world.
It was not a temporal, culturally oriented option. May we substitue modern elements more meaningful to our present generation, as some contend? These were not optional expedients flavored by culture. Consider this point. Was this ordinance an accommodation to the cultural habits of that day? May we assume that the teaching of Jesus on divorce and remarriage is not binding today so that one may capriciously divorce and remarry without limitation?
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- Zwischen Dionysos und Buddha: Avantgarde und Psychoanalyse um 1910: Erster Band: Dionysos (German Edition).
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The fact is, Jewish, Greek, and Roman attitudes concerning divorce and remarriage were all exceedingly loose in that era. Get the point, please. When a New Testament teaching is based upon the historical facts of creation , it cannot be dismissed as cultural. Similarly, in several New Testament contexts Paul affirms the concept that there is a scale of authority in the divine scheme of things. In 1 Corinthians ; ; and in 1 Timothy , the apostle sets forth three fundamental truths.
Sharing God’s Love
First, man is the spiritual head of woman. She is to respect that position 1 Cor. Third, the theological bases of these instructions arise from the creation background 1 Cor. They are coexistent with the Christian age. It is grounded in facts which are not altered by geography or centuries , Rather, it was bound upon churches everywhere. And if any were disposed to argue against his apostolic injunctions, they were informed that their conduct was out of step with the general practice of the churches of God 1 Cor.
We must remember that when one removes a divinely stated rationale for a practice from the text of the New Testament and then injects his own assumed rationale as the basis for the instruction, he is no longer practicing exegesis. He is, instead, guilty of eisegesis i. It is argued that the early church never possessed the entire New Testament. Since a New Testament pattern could not have been required as the norm for the entire family of God in that era, the obligations set forth in the New Testament are not patterns for today.
First, it is an argument based in ignorance. Those early saints may have possessed many more copies of the scriptures than is assumed by some modern scholars. Also, other inspired documents other than what we possess may have been available to the early Christians 1 Cor. Also, the early church had divinely inspired prophets and teachers who were empowered directly by the Holy Spirit to instruct the saints in faith and practice.
The Church’s Response to Changing Culture: A Review of “Future Faith” – in All things
Are we to assume that the Holy Spirit taught a different gospel through direct revelation than that which was eventually recorded for the abiding instruction of the church? What is the basis for making such an assumption? Acts ; Rom. First, the alleged parallel is specious. There is absolutely no evidence that the saints of the early church were ever commanded to kiss one another as a method of greeting.
Nevertheless, reaction against culture can be as powerful for identity formation as would be accepting culture. Thus, Christians throughout time have taken stands against alcohol, polygamy, divorce, abortion, and a myriad of other issues.
Some Christians might reject a certain practice while others gladly accept it. Debates over ethics and practice are intrinsic to the multicultural nature of the Christian religion.
- The Holy Roman Empire;
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Thus, the Jesuits saw no harm in Chinese converts honoring their ancestor, while the Domincans and Franciscans called it idolatry. Western missionaries in Africa were more often than not solidly opposed to polygamy, while indigenous Church leaders were occasionally more willing to entertain the possibility. Yet this is not to say that Christianity lacks a core and is completely determined by surrounding culture. On the contrary, at the center of World Christianity is a story. It is the story of the relationship between God and the world, as told through the lens of Jesus Christ.
The example, influence, and reality of Jesus have provided a touch point for all Christian traditions. Thus, the study of world Christianity asks what it is that makes Christians unique as individual groups and coherent as a whole. It seeks to understand the cause of division and conflict both within the Christian community and also with the wider world. As Christians become increasingly aware of their cultural differences, the study of World Christianity will provide tools for navigating the diversity.
It will also, hopefully, provide a space and a platform for discussing our differences and finding a common ground. Annual Theme home.
Related Cultural Change and Biblical Faith
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Queen of Peace, obtain for us the grace to establish and assure that the peace in our own lives will light the way for others. We pray that all nations will seek tranquility, that the Kingdom of God may prevail. This we ask through Jesus Christ, thy Son, our Lord. Amen.
The Order of Our Lady is a path of spiritual growth, devotion, and service for women in The Liberal Catholic Church. Our mission is to become more complete embodiments of Our Lady’s love and compassion and to spread her light, blessing, and consolation into the world.
There are chapters of the Order in parishes in Australia, Europe, and North America.
This is the website of the New Mexico chapter of the Order. Women from the parishes of Our Lady Queen of Angels LCC in Rio Rancho and St. Michael the Protector LCC in Mountainair founded this chapter in January 2011.
We meet monthly and have developed a Rule of Life for our use. We have also chosen particular liturgy to open and close our meetings. In November 2011 we embarked on a Prayer Project, to offer daily intercessory prayer for those whom we know are facing particular challenges.
We will hold our next meeting on Saturday, January 28, 2017, at Our Lady Queen of Angels Church in Rio Rancho, at 2 pm. Women members of The Liberal Catholic Church who are interested in our Order are very welcome to join us.


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Why Max Lucado Broke His Political Silence for Trump
In the face of a candidate’s antics, ‘America’s Pastor’ speaks out.
Max Lucado is a pastor in San Antonio and a bestselling author of 32 books, including the most recent Glory Days. In a 2004 piece, Christianity Today dubbed Lucado “America’s Pastor,” alluding to his broad appeal to mainstream Americans. Part of that appeal can be attributed to his approach to politics: typically, he stays out of it. He never endorsed or opposed a presidential candidate. Then Trump happened.
In a recent blog post, Lucado chose to speak out against what he calls Trump’s “antics,” insisting that, “such insensitivities wouldn’t even be acceptable even for a middle school student body election.”
We talked to Lucado about his motivation for speaking up and how Trump has changed his attitude toward pastoral involvement in politics.
Prior to you publishing your post, “Decency for President” this week, how would you describe your typical approach to politics as a pastor?
I don’t even put a candidate’s bumper sticker on my car. People don’t attend church to hear my views on a presidential candidate.
In this case, it’s not so much a question about particular policies or strategies about government or even particular opinions. It’s a case of public derision of people. It’s belittling people publicly. It would be none of my business, I would have absolutely no right to speak up except that he repeatedly brandishes the Bible and calls himself a Christian.
I wrote this article and sent it to the Trump team in hopes that they would respond. But they never did. I cannot imagine what their world must be like. Who knows? It probably got lost in some email basket out there. But I tried because I felt that that would be more appropriate ...Continue reading...
Interview: N. T. Wright: The Church Continues the Revolution Jesus Started
In his new book, Wright explains that Jesus' death does more than just get us into heaven.
A foundational Christian belief is that Jesus Christ died on the Cross for our sins. For many, the most important result of this is that believers go to heaven when they die. Bestselling author, scholar and bishop, N. T. Wright, thinks we’re missing a critical aspect of what Jesus accomplished on the Cross if we limit our understanding just to this explanation. His latest book, The Day the Revolution Began, explores the Crucifixion and argues that the Protestant Reformation did not go far enough in tranforming our understanding of this event. Mike Bird, author of What Christians Ought To Believe, interviewed Wright about how Christians should view the Crucifixion.
Tom, you describe Jesus' death as the beginning of a "revolution." What was that revolution and why does it still matter today?
Most Western Christians have been taught that Jesus died so that they could escape the results of sin and go to heaven after they die. The New Testament, however, regularly speaks of Jesus’ death as the defeat of the powers of evil that have kept the world in captivity, with the implication that the world is actually going to change as a result—through the life and work and witness of those who believe this good news. Think of Revelation 5:9–10. Humans are rescued from their sin so that they can be “a kingdom and priests serving our God, and they will reign on earth.” That began at Easter and, in the power of the Spirit, has continued ever since. Of course, the “reign” of Jesus’ people, like that of Jesus himself, is the reign of suffering love . . . but that’s a whole other story. Suffice it to say that the vocation of God’s people today is to continue to implement ...
You Are the Manure of the Earth
Jesus' metaphor about salt was actually about fertilizer.
My first job after graduating from Clemson University was as a quality control chemist at a small pharmaceutical company in Atlanta. It was a great job, but I was far too extroverted to enjoy a career in a lab. Initially, I had enrolled in college with the intention of becoming a physician, but after a spiritual awakening during my senior year, I made a decision to attend seminary instead of medical school. As a consequence, I learned the Bible with the sciences in mind—which has been a continual source of insight into my reading of Scripture.
For example, I was recently doing some research for a lecture on Luke 14:34–35. When I read Jesus’ words—“Salt is good, but if it loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?”— I decided to look into what Jesus’ original audience might have understood about salt when Jesus taught them to be “the salt of the earth.” When I discovered that salt was used as a fertilizer in Palestine, it permanently changed how I viewed the command to love my neighbor. What previously had been a somewhat strange charge by Jesus to be “salty” became a source of inspiration for Christian life and mission.
You are ‘salt for the soil.’
According to specialists in environmental science and soil chemistry, salt has been a major method of fertilizing soil for centuries.
An old article in the journal Biblical Archaeology, “Salt, Soil, Savior,” stands the test of time. Eugene P. Deatrick, former head of the soils department at West Virginia University, argued that in Matthew 5:13, Mark 9:50, and Luke 14:34–35, Jesus was speaking not primarily of salt’s household use but of its agricultural use. According ...
Should Christians Vote for the Lesser of Two Evils?
Even at the ballot box, morality is not relative.
For years, I have urged Christians to take seriously their obligations as citizens, starting with exercising the right to vote. In the public square and at the ballot box, we must be more engaged, not less.
But what happens in a race where Christians are faced with two morally problematic choices? Should voters cast a ballot for the lesser of two evils? This unpredictable election cycle could go in any number of directions, and I keep getting asked this question.
For starters, unless Jesus of Nazareth is on the ballot, any election forces us to choose the lesser of evils. Across every party and platform, all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Still, the question is a valid one. Believing in human depravity doesn’t negate our sense of responsibility. By the standard of God’s law, every person is a liar, but that doesn’t mean we should hire an employee we know has a pattern of lying. Jesus taught that all who have lust in their hearts are adulterers, but that doesn’t mean a woman should shrug her shoulders when she learns her potential new husband is a serial philanderer.
When considering the question of choosing between the lesser of two evils, we must begin with what voting is within our system of government. In our system, citizen is an office; we too bear responsibility for the actions of the government. Just as the lordship of Christ made demands for public justice on office-holders in the New Testament (Luke 4:15), the same is true for those who rule as citizens.
The apostle Paul taught that the sword of Caesar is given by God to commend good and punish evil (Rom. 13:1-5). The Bible addresses the limits of this role, recounting those who use the sword in unjust ways and are held accountable ...
James Dobson: Why I Am Voting for Donald Trump
The founder and president of Family Talk explains why his decision centers on the future of the Supreme Court.
What are the strongest arguments for a Christian to support Donald Trump for the US presidency?
First, let me say that I will respond to your questions as a private individual and not as a representative of the organization I lead.
I don’t vote for candidates or political parties. I support those who will lead the country righteously, honorably, and wisely. In many ways, this is a single-issue election because it will affect every dimension of American life: the makeup of the Supreme Court. Antonin Scalia’s sudden death made this election the most significant of our lifetime. The next president will nominate perhaps three or more justices whose judicial philosophy will shape our country for generations to come.
Unelected, unaccountable, and imperialistic justices have a history of imposing horrendous decisions on the nation. One decision that still plagues us is Roe v. Wade, imposed on America in 1973. It divided the nation and has led to the murders of 54 million innocent babies. This killing goes on every day.
That leads us to ask what the judiciary will look like in a Trump administration. I attended a June 2016 event called “A Conversation with Donald Trump” in New York, with more than 1,000 other religious leaders. Before the meeting, 30 of us met Trump in a private session in Trump Tower. Most were evangelicals or conservative Catholics. I asked the candidate about his concerns regarding religious liberty.
I liked that he promised us emphatically that he will work to protect our religious liberties. He has since released a list of potential Supreme Court nominees that is stellar. We must pray that, if elected, he will keep his word.
Trump’s selection of Governor Mike Pence as his running mate ...Continue reading...
Cover Story: Inside the Popular, Controversial Bethel Church
Some visitors claim to be healed. Others claim to receive direct words from God. Is it 'real'--or dangerous?
I have seen a man dance holding a translucent scarf, the fabric billowing around his spinning form like a garment made of stars. I have prayed for strangers’ healing from high-blood pressure and unspecified neurological disorders. I have wept with salt-faced abandon as four women prayed over me; I have walked through a “fire tunnel”; I have seen a woman bob in Hasidic fashion over the Bible app on her smartphone.
I experienced all this at the increasingly famous (and, to some, infamous) Bethel Church, and I did so as an evangelical Christian of Reformed persuasion. My parents named me for the Welsh pastor-theologian Martyn Lloyd-Jones. My father is a pastor in the Christian and Missionary Alliance, Jonathan Edwards is one of my guiding lights, Wheaton College is my alma mater, and I attend a Presbyterian church in Toronto where I have never heard anyone speak or pray in tongues.
Yet Bethel has been on my mind since a friend prayed for my healing at a campground in Wisconsin in 2010. She introduced me to the teachings of Bethel’s senior pastor, Bill Johnson, and gave me a few of his books. As Bethel grows, you might very well hear from a few people in your congregation who have traveled to Redding to find out if Bethel is “real”—and who come back proclaiming that revival is under way.
When I set out for Bethel Church—a hub of a global revival movement—I half-expected to discover a rogue organization of hucksters intent on subverting the faith. And I half-expected to discover a community of believers more earnest and devoted to God than anyone I’d ever met. In the end, what I discovered in Redding, California, didn’t fit either narrative neatly.
Bethel Church sits ...Continue reading...
Speak Truth to Trump
Evangelicals, of all people, should not be silent about Donald Trump's blatant immorality.
As a non-profit journalistic organization, Christianity Today is doubly committed to staying neutral regarding political campaigns—the law requires it, and we serve our readers best when we give them the information and analysis they need to make their own judgments.
Just because we are neutral, however, does not mean we are indifferent. We are especially not indifferent when the gospel is at stake. The gospel is of infinitely greater importance than any campaign, and one good summary of the gospel is, “Jesus is Lord.”
The true Lord of the world reigns even now, far above any earthly ruler. His kingdom is not of this world, but glimpses of its power and grace can be found all over the world. One day his kingdom, and his only, will be the standard by which all earthly kingdoms are judged, and following that judgment day, every knee will bow, in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, as his reign is fully realized in the renewal of all things.
The lordship of Christ places constraints on the way his followers involve themselves, or entangle themselves, with earthly rulers.
On the one hand, we pray for all rulers—and judging from the example of Old Testament exiles like Daniel and New Testament prisoners like Paul, we can even wholeheartedly pray for rulers who directly oppose our welfare. On the other hand, we recognize that all earthly governments partake, to a greater or lesser extent, in what the Bible calls idolatry: substituting the creation for the Creator and the earthly ruler for the true God.
No human being, including even the best rulers, is free of this temptation. But some rulers and regimes are especially outrageous in their God-substitution. After Augustus Caesar, the emperors of Rome became ...Continue reading...
Who’s Who of Trump’s ‘Tremendous’ Faith Advisers
The Republican candidate finally names his campaign’s evangelical connections.
Following his much-anticipated confab with nearly 1,000 evangelical pastors and leaders, Republican candidate Donald Trump has released a long list of his born-again advisory board.
Not everyone on the board endorses Trump—but they’ve agreed to consult with him as he continues to reach out to an evangelical movement solidly split between the already on-board, the hesitant, and the decidedly #NeverTrump.
Some of the 25 figureheads on Trump’s board have relationships with him that go back several years. Some first connected at earlier campaign events targeting clergy. The breadth of his list serves as a reminder of the wide reach of American evangelicalism, from the institutional leaders in the Southern Baptist Convention to the prosperity gospel preachers made famous through Christian TV programming.
Below are brief explainers on each of the evangelicals who have signed on to influence the theology of Trump:
The Big Names
James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family
Who he is: Dobson led national Christian ministry Focus on the Family from its founding in 1977 through 2003. He now hosts a radio program called My Family Talk. He also founded the Family Research Council, a Christian lobbying group currently led by Tony Perkins. Dobson, a pioneer Christian psychologist, has penned dozens of books about family life. His wife, Shirley, was the head of the National Day of Prayer Task Force until this year, when she handed over the reins to Anne Graham Lotz.
His evangelical ties: Dobson’s father, grandfather, and great-grandfather were all pastors in the Church of the Nazarene. Dobson and the organizations he launched are household names among American evangelicals, synonymous with “family values” stances. ...Continue reading...
Losing Your Religion While 'Black-ish'
Declining faith can feel like a threat to cultural identity for African Americans.
When ABC’s Black-ish opened its third season at Disney World—filled with sunny optimism and corporate product placement—I thought the show might be losing its edge.
Then came the second episode, entitled “God.”
Dre Johnson (played by Anthony Anderson) responds to his teenage daughter Zoey’s (Yara Shahidi) growing spiritual doubts. It’s a dramatic shift for a show that usually plays faith for laughs, with Dre’s overbearing mother Ruby and her exclamations about Jesus and other outlandish churchy behavior.
As Dre explains in the narration, faith has been a vital part of the African American historical experience, so it makes sense for viewers like me to assume the whole Johnson family believed in God. (Stats back this up too. About 8 in 10 African Americans say religion is very important in their lives, reported Pew Research in 2009, compared with 56% of the general US population.)
When Zoey begins doubting God’s existence in a world filled with injustice, her father experiences his own crisis of identity. After noticing a lack of faith among his white affluent coworkers, Dre associates his daughter’s wavering belief with her proximity to affluent white suburbia (a recurring theme on Black-ish).
Dre’s suspicion of white affluence is partially rooted in his distrust of his biracial brother-in-law Johan. Freshly returned from Paris, Johan (Daveed Diggs, in an homage to his roles in Hamilton) embodies the European stereotype—sophisticated, worldly, and atheistic. Overreacting like a typical sitcom dad, Dre attempts to ban anything in the home that feels too white—including almond milk, radicchio, and even hummus.
Growing up in Portland, Oregon, one of the ...Continue reading...
‘13th’ Introduces America to the Dark History of Our Criminal Justice System
The new Netflix documentary makes the case that to save the future, we need to stop defending the past.
“Defend the past. Save the future.”
Those words are lighting up TV screens this week, promoting the new NBC time-travel adventure series Timeless. But really, it’s ridiculous. No matter how many people want to go back and “kill Hitler,” the past cannot be changed. Right? Right?
I don’t know. Last night, director Ava DuVernay took me back to familiar figures from my childhood. She didn’t “defend the past.” She revealed politicians I remember as heroes to be complicit in things I find difficult to accept. And if you take that journey with me, we might yet become a church that helps “save the future” by refusing to defend our past.
DuVernay, who directed Selma—a gripping historical drama that has the gospel blazing through its veins—has just delivered a brilliant lesson in time travel, and its streaming now on Netflix. It’s called 13th.
With startling interviews, ugly statistics, kinetically charged animation, and shocking man-on-the-street footage of American history, 13th reintroduces Americans to their very own criminal justice system. I say “reintroduces” because DuVernay films through lenses that reveal a cancer running unchecked.
Full disclosure: Despite Jesus’s call for his followers to visit prisoners, I have never stepped through those gates. Remember those religious hypocrites who pass by the man beaten, robbed, and left by the side of the road? DuVernay’s perspective convicts me. I see now how blind I became, proudly pledging my allegiance to the ideal of “liberty and justice for all” while revering politicians who manipulated laws to perpetuate injustice.
Informed by the testimonies of historical and ...Continue reading...
Clinton, Trump, or Neither? 3 Views on the 2016 Presidential Election
Ron Sider, James Dobson, and Sho Baraka make the best Christian case for each choice.
As most readers know, a not-for-profit publishing company like Christianity Today has to remain not-for-prophet when it comes to (prophetically) endorsing a presidential candidate. That’s why in presidential elections of the past, CT magazine has opted to simply note the issues that divide the major candidates, or to feature profiles of candidates from the major parties. This year, we’re trying something completely different: advocacy pieces for each of the major party candidates from three evangelical leaders.
Some might wonder if we are legitimizing one or the other candidate by doing so. Not quite: For better or worse, our political system and fellow Americans have legitimized them. They are the major parties’ nominees. But given the unique controversies surrounding each candidate, more Christians than ever are seriously entertaining the idea of voting for neither candidate—thus the third article in the package.
Such election features are designed to help readers make “informed decisions.” (Also see our new election book, How to Pick a President.) We trust that this package will do just that. Yet given the complexities of this election, we’re sure our readers will need not just information but also some unearthly wisdom. —The Editors
The Cosmos Is Vaster than the Ancients Imagined
Looking at the stars is always humbling. Wrong understandings of their movement are even more so.
As a teenager, I frequently climbed on top of my dad’s shop to look at the stars. When I looked upon a clear, unobstructed night sky, it was as if the starry hosts engulfed me. The lights making their slow dance across the heavens gave a perspective of existence that is hard to find elsewhere. It compelled me to reflect on how big God is and how truly small I am.
Due to centuries of observations, ideological struggles, and successful scientific endeavors, we know quite a bit about the starry hosts. We know that the universe is vast—that there are billions of galaxies with billions of stars and planets each. And we know that Earth rotates at about 1,000 miles per hour and revolves at a speed of 70,000 miles per hour around the sun. None of this, however, is obvious from an Earth-bound perspective.
If I were to go back in time to before the 1600s, though I would be looking at the same starry hosts, I would understand the universe differently.
In the early 1500s, a Polish astronomer developed a theory that changed the way we see the universe. The theory was so controversial that Nicolas Copernicus resisted publishing it until right before his death. What was this contestable idea? Copernicus conjectured that the sun, not Earth, was at the center of the solar system.
Before Copernicus’ theory became popular, most scientists claimed that Earth was at the center. The idea is not as silly as it seems. Even if the theory ultimately turned out to be false, ancient scientists based their ideas on many complex, reasonable explanations.
Suppose you are in the Northern Hemisphere stargazing, and you look up and see the Big Dipper. You will notice the constellation of stars making a counterclockwise, circular motion around ...Continue reading...
Trump Tape Forces Deeper Conversations on Evangelical Ethics
Purity teachings, abortion, Hillary Clinton, and what really matters to American Christians in 2016.
By now, you’ve probably seen the 2005 video of Donald Trump bragging to then–Access Hollywood’s Billy Bush about his aggressive groping and kissing of women.
If you’re running for election as a Republican, it may have encouraged you to change your strategy. (Arizona Senator John McCain dropped his endorsement. GOP House Leader Paul Ryan has said he’ll stop campaigning for Trump.)
But so far, Trump’s most vocal evangelical supporters—including James Dobson, Eric Metaxas, Tony Perkins, and Jerry Falwell—haven’t wavered in their support. (Read CT’s full report.)
“The whole thing is baffling yet predictable,” said Jemar Tisby, the president and co-founder of the Reformed African American Network.
While allegations of Trump’s previous sexual attacks on women currently make the news, his campaign won the primary while proposing a ban on Muslims from entering the US and attacking a Mexican-American judge for his heritage, actions indicative of a larger thread in Republican history, said Tisby.
“That Donald Trump, out of 16 candidates, would end up being the nominee is on one hand utterly perplexing. On the other hand it doesn’t surprise me in the sense that what he’s playing to what has been present in the GOP for decades,” he said.
But will this be true in the future?
“I’ve seen a lot of people want to say ‘The Religious Right is finished. They don’t have the clout that they had,’” said Matthew Lee Anderson, the founder of Mere Orthodoxy. “I think that it’s way too premature to say that sort of thing. We do need a couple of election cycles…One of the things that I will watch very ...Continue reading...
Interview: The Value of Friends Who Don’t Look, Think, or Vote Like You Do
When you limit your social circles, you limit your opportunities to grow.
In an era of stark political division and social-media distraction, genuine friendship doesn’t come easy. Which makes it all the more urgent, says Nashville pastor Scott Sauls. In Befriend: Create Belonging in an Age of Judgment, Isolation, and Fear (Tyndale), Sauls especially advocates taking risks in befriending people unlike ourselves. CT online managing editor Richard Clark recently spoke to Sauls about building God-honoring friendships.
Where do we go wrong in our ideas of friendship?
One of our biggest mistakes is to limit our circles to people who look, think, and vote like us. It minimizes friction and disagreement—but also the opportunity to grow, to learn, and to have our assumptions challenged.
We’ve also substituted digital connectivity for real, face-to-face, life-together friendships. This lets us give edited self-presentations, putting our best foot forward rather than allowing ourselves to be fully known. An essential aspect of community is having people know our best and our worst—our dreams and aspirations, but also our fears, insecurities, and failures.
What if we reach out in friendship to someone unlike us, but the other person resists?
You at least need the commonality of wanting friendship. David and Jonathan are a great example. One is a blue-collar tender of sheep, and the other is a prince. For friendship to happen, both parties have to be committed.
There’s a person in our church who has strong blue-state politics. He asked to be matched to a small group with a bunch of Republicans, because he felt that experience would be valuable. Two years later, he told me that people from that group are some of his best friends. They go on vacations together and do things together on ...Continue reading...
News: InterVarsity Asks Staff to Choose a Stance on Sexuality
Campus ministry's push for theological consistency prompts painful backlash.
It’s up to staff members on 667 college campuses to decide whether they share InterVarsity Christian Fellowship’s theological beliefs on sexuality, following an 18-month study on LGBT ministry that concludes next month.
There will be no morality clause to sign, no list of things they can and cannot do or say, and no statement to verbally affirm, according to Greg Jao, vice president and director of campus engagement for the evangelical student ministry.
Instead, if any of InterVarsity’s 1,300 staff members oppose the theological positions detailed in a 20-page document—including prohibitions against same-sex relationships, sex before marriage, divorce, masturbation, and the biblical underpinnings for each—released in early 2015, they are expected to disclose their conflict and leave.
“We’re trusting their integrity that they’ll resign rather than continue to work with an organization that disagrees with them,” said Jao. “We framed it as an involuntary termination, even though staff are self-disclosing. We are trying to acknowledge that they would not have chosen this except for the fact we have clarified and reiterated our position.”
The policy was reported by Time magazine yesterday, bringing a barrage of public commentary and questions to a sensitive issue that staff members have been weighing for months. Jao says he knows fewer than 10 people who have resigned since this summer; one former staff member estimated it was at least 20.
As Christians on both sides react to the news, some say that InterVarsity’s scenario will only become more common for evangelicals and their organizations: Those who have kept their convictions over marriage and sexuality to ...Continue reading...