What we are About
OUR CHURCH MISSION
To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and teach the Apostolic Doctrine to all people that they may come to Salvation, Healing, Reconciliation and Restoration. To teach biblical principles for practical living and gain everlasting life.
Greater Refuge Church is an apostolic church, located in Richmond, Virginia. Our ministry has grown with over 200 members who congregate weekly to obtain knowledge and strength in God’s word. Greater Refuge Church is one of the most respected ministries in the Richmond community and surrounding area for over 50 years.
We are affiliated with the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ (COOLJC), which was founded under the late Bishop R.C. Lawson in 1919. Greater Refuge is one of over 500 churches dedicated to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ to all the world, preaching and teaching and baptizing in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ! In the words of the organizations great leader, the late Apostle William Lee Bonner, we continue to “Add thou to it” increasing awareness of the knowledge and greatness of Jesus Christ our Lord!
Who is Pastor Peters?
Our beloved pastor, Apostle Samuel R. Peters, Sr. was born February 27, 1948 in Sussex County, Virginia. He was the third child and second son of 11 children born to Roosevelt and Minnie Dora Chambliss Peters. He was raised in the rural area of Sussex attending Sussex County and Prince George County public schools. Moving to Richmond, Virginia as a child, he continued his education in the Richmond Public Schools graduating from Armstrong High School, class of 1966. He was an advanced student in drafting/architectural drawing and played on the varsity tennis team.
He was married in 1967. From this union were born three children. Samuel R. Peters, Jr., Consuelo G. Peters-Parham, and Alicia D. Peters-Jordan, eight grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter.
While in his senior year of high school, he took the civil service exam and qualified himself to be hired by the U.S. Post Office. He worked as a letter carrier from 1966 to 1974.
Pastor Peters accepted his call to the ministry while still in high school. After he was baptized of the water and spirit, his life than began to unfold in an unusual way. God had a masterplan in mind for him. After graduation he continued his ministerial studies under the late Apostle John W. Pernell, and later under Apostolic William L. Bonner, both of the Church of Our Lord Jesus Christ of the Apostolic Faith, Inc. While serving as assistant pastor to Bishop Bonner, he enrolled at the Church of Christ Institute in New York. Later, he attended the WL Bonner College in Columbia, South Carolina for two years. Pastor Peters attends seminars, conferences, and workshops on a regular basis. This has helped to broaden his ministry insight.
Bishop Peters was appointed pastor of Greater Refuge Church (called Mother Refuge Church then), October 8, 1974 by Apostle William L. Bonner. The ministry has continue to grow and over 2,000 souls have been baptized in the name of Jesus and over 1,100 filled with the Holy Spirit under his leadership.
Pastor Peters is a preacher, teacher, and builder. He is a visionary in his own right. He has built or assisted in the building of 10 churches in the United States and foreign fields. One of his latest achievements was the construction of our 6,000 square foot educational building. This building housed our Kings Kids Christian Academy until December 2012. It is now home to Seniors First Choice, a ministry dedicated to the health and well-being of senior adults.
Today, Apostle Peters travels extensively throughout the USA and abroad promoting the gospel of Jesus Christ. His travels have taken him to Israel, Rome, Italy, London, Croydon, Canada, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Hawaii, Leeward Islands, and 45 out of the 50 states of the USA.
His favorite saying is “God is so good! I don’t have no sad story to tell you.”


Raising Spirits at ChristmasMy
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Raising Spirits at Christmas
It is indeed that time of year. The pulse of the Universe seems to be beating faster every day. The media constantly lets us know how many days have slipped away as the time draws nigh to the big day. Some of us have gotten tired of the commercialization of this holiday. What can we do about it??
Right now stop, close your eyes and take a deep breath. What three words come to mind for you about Christmas? Jot these down. Did any of you come up with the words rest, relaxation, and peace? My words used to be stress, stress and more stress. This is how I changed that for me. We all have the ability to make change and there is still time to incorporate it in this year's celebration.
My peaceful words came after years of experimenting with Christmas.
One of the first things to change was decorating. My children took over that chore. They had their friends over and I made lunch while they put things anywhere they wanted. That went well until we all moved out. Since then I have done Christmas many ways.
One year I traveled. My children had been here a few weeks before Christmas and we exchanged gifts then and they returned to NC to spend Christmas with their father and friends. My boyfriend and I went to Mexico for Christmas week. It turned out to be a very sad time for me. Being in a foreign place with my boyfriend was different and difficult. I didn't feel connected. We went to mass in a little town and that helped some. The entire service was in Spanish, which I don't understand. Before Christmas we noticed many towns had huge crèches outside churches, town halls and hotels. All of the mangers were empty. On Christmas day the baby Jesus arrived and was placed in the manger. Seems like they paid attention to the details of the Christmas story more than we did. What I missed was my family being around and my home. This was a 2 years after I had divorced and was trying to find my comfort zone. A good friend had told me the first Christmas after divorce is the worst. Every year after that it gets better. She was so right. It has gotten better.
The next year I went to NC and met my children at my son's apartment with a Christmas dinner purchased from the honey baked ham store. That felt more connected even though it didn't last long and I was in a friend's house for Christmas Eve.
Lately I have been staying home and really like that the best. We have been doing an extended Christmas celebrating when anyone shows up. Our grandson and his mom made an unexpected trip to visit us in November. Bob got out our artificial Christmas tree with lights. He had purchased it last year when it was too cold to visit the lots. Actually lots of people here are using them in hopes to preserve trees from being cut. Sure does make it easier to get the tree up and down. Our grandson Keegan 2 years old, was here for the weekend. He walked in and saw the tree with his presents under it. He loved unwrapping them and we got to enjoy him playing with them for the time he was here. We even hung his stocking. Still haven't put ornaments on the tree yet, but we definitely beat all the neighbors for having a tree up first.
We will repeat this when my daughter comes to celebrate before she flies to NC. There is even a possibility that we will have two more celebrations if my sons decide to make a visit before the 25th. I have found that Christmas is truly in the heart and you can celebrate it any day.
The reason my 3 words for Christmas are rest, relaxation and joy is that Bob and I have spent the last 3 years in Marco Island, Florida, the first week in December. It is our Christmas present to each other. We rest swim, relax and do some Christmas shopping. It is a slow down instead of a speed up time for us. We look forward to this vacation time all year.
Most of us have discovered shopping from organizations that are connected with those in need. The heifer project is great-you can donate and send a card to friends letting them know this is what you did for them. I have reduced the number of gifts I give. I have made it okay if my boys don't come and just happily wrap Christmas boxes for them. I am cutting out those "have to presents". It is fun to give to those who least expect it, such as the mailman and the garbage men.
For years I taught a workshop about taking the stress out of Christmas. I think I am finally implementing it in my life. My words are peace, relax and joy.
Last year I read the book Skipping Christmas by John Grisham. It is a delightful story of a couple doing just that to the consternation of their neighbors. It has a warm, feel good outcome. You can enjoy reading it after the Christmas rush is over and you are enjoying the week after the holiday. This is the most relaxed and restful week of the year for most of us.
Look at the things you have to do before Christmas and ask yourself what do you enjoy doing? What can you let other family members do to help you? What do you really want out of the holiday? I have found that spending time with my family and friends is most important to me. So we make it work whatever day it is and it doesn't even have to be in Dec. This year Bob and I may be alone or end up with a house full. My son and his daughter have not made a decision yet about coming. It will be okay either way as Christmas is in the heart. Going to church on Christmas Eve is the only tradition I have kept.
Now take a deep breath and imagine the Christmas you really want. Notice how you are feeling. What are people around you doing that makes them feel good? Is it doing Christmas baking? Is it decorating? Is it singing? Is it going to church at midnight? What opens your heart and those around you? Let your imagination show you what is really important to you for the holiday. Before you open your eyes what 3 words come to mind when you think of Christmas? I hope it is peace, joy and happiness. We all deserve to have the Christmas that opens our hearts and makes us truly happy. Make it the Christmas you want.
Paula Vaughan is a spiritual counselor, business and medical intuitive, and medium. She lives in Boulder, CO and can be reached at 303-447-0250 or email firstname.lastname@example.org you can visit her website at www.paulavaughan.com


When the Boxing Day tsunami hit, Australians were moved to help in a massive outpouring of sympathy and aid. But one of the first to arrive in the worst-hit area, Banda Aceh, was Father Chris Riley, the priest renowned for his dedication to improving the welfare of Australia’s poorest kids.
Father Chris was so touched by the plight of the children who’d lost their parents and their homes in the disaster that he was determined to help, despite great obstacles. And in an extraordinary operation in the most devoutly Muslim and strife-torn area of Indonesia, his organisation, Youth Off The Streets, was the first to set up an orphanage for local children.
Following on from the bestselling and widely praised Mean Streets, Kind Heart, Sue Williams takes up the inspiring and heartwarming story of Father Chris and his new quest to help some of the world’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable children.
Yet World Beyond Tears is not just the moving story of the children whose lives he’s managed to turn around in Indonesia. Father Chris is now also helping kids in East Timor, the Philippines and eastern Europe while, back home, he’s set up his first shelter for Aboriginal children and is extending his work nationally to help as many Australian kids in need as he can. Father Chris’s ability to overcome enormous odds to help every child he comes in contact with is a testament to his belief in a shared humanity.
For further information about Youth Off The Streets, visit their website: www.youthoffthestreets.com.au.
World Beyond Tears: The Ongoing Story Of Father Chris Riley was published in October 2005 by HarperCollins, rrp $29.95
a moving story
— MORE Weekend 5/11/05
Kids’ champion Father Chris Riley surmounted enormous odds to set up a tented orphanage for Indonesian children in tsunami-devastated Banda Aceh
— Sun Herald 23/10/05
Sue Williams’ book is dense and gripping. As with her previous biography, she has done Father Riley and YOTS proud.
— The Age 15/10/05
Book of the Week.
— YOU MAGAZINE 18/10/05
— Northern Daily Leader 24/9/05
Father Chris looked into the bewildered eyes of the child on his screen and felt all his resolve suddenly crumble. The words ‘back on the streets’ hooked into his mind, and echoed again, and again, in all their hopeless resignation.
— Daily Telegraph 1/10/05
When Youth off the Streets founder Father Chris Riley took his charity to the tsunami-ravaged Banda Aceh in January, he was issued fire and brimstone warnings against converting Muslim children to Christianity. The Catholic priest had nothing of the sort in mind.
— Sunday Telegraph 5/6/05
It’s a heart-wrenching story
— Teenmatters Winter 05
Father Chris managed to pull off the kind of coup that many before him had tried – and failed. He succeeded in signing an agreement with the world’s second largest Islamic organisation, the Indonesian Mohammadiyah, to set up and jointly run the tented orphanage.
— Catholic News October 05
Follow-up to Mean Street Kind Heart, author Sue Williams takes up the inspiring story of maverick priest Father Chris Riley and his mission to help society’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable children. This book takes Father Chris’s new challenges abroad, extending his reach to help children in Asia and Europe.
— Seek Books October 05
Ordinary people working together in good faith can overcome any obstacle. What hope does a never-take-no-for-an-answer Catholic priest and his crew of former Sydney street kids have competing with the expertise of international aid organisations in assisting in such a humanitarian crisis? The answer is ‘plenty’
— Catholic Outlook December 05
World Beyond Tears takes in Father Chris’s new challenges abroad – extending his reach to help children in Asia and Europe – and in Australia, where he has set up his first home for Aboriginal street kids, with the emphasis on helping them discover their own cultural past as well as encouraging them to have a stake in their futures.
— Big W December 05


Here is your Friday update for the weekend!
We need you for Parish Council and to help us be “One in Christ”! As you may have seen in the parish bulletin we are getting ready to have parish council elections in August and we need a few more candidates to run in the election. I am looking for people interested in focusing on this document from our Archbishop called “We are One in Christ”:
I have written about it in previous bulletin letters and I think it has some important things to say about being Catholic in the 21st century and how we might want to structure our ministries. More and more Bishops and Catholic leaders are seeing the need to evangelize and proclaim the Gospel from the parish instead of just inviting people to it. The Archbishop has some interesting ideas that I think could help bring some additional life to our parish and help young people feel more involved. If this interests you please sign up to run in the election for parish council! We hope to be able to have electronic elections closer to the end of the month. You will need to submit a short bio and a photo for the election process and you can email the current president Joe Neeson at firstname.lastname@example.org for more information! You can also contact me at the office if you have questions at ext. 222 or email@example.com.
Evening 5:45pm Masses Monday – Friday: for those unable to wear a mask If you are unable to wear a mask for medical or any health condition we are reserving the weekday evening Masses for you, as there is plenty of room to have six feet of distance between families. You may still wear a mask of course, however if you are unable you do not have to.
School is starting next week! Welcome back to our students! School begins for our students on this week on Wednesday August 5th! It is not too late to register if you have any questions please contact our Principal, Kent Clady, in the school office or send him an email at firstname.lastname@example.org.
Prayers for Patty Schnarr: As many of you know our youth minister Patty Schnarr has been battling cancer on and off for the past year. She is currently in the midst of receiving chemotherapy and this current round has been much more difficult for her. After some discussion with her, Patty has decided to retire from the position effective last week. She is financially taken care of but certainly could use your prayers and support. If you would like to send her a card you can mail it to us here at the office and we will make sure she gets it.
Fr. Vinny and I are keeping in touch with her as are the rest of the staff and she remains in our daily prayers. Please keep her in yours.


With more than 16 years of ministry experience, some with Living Waters Canada and some with Desert Stream, Debra (Deb) Ivancovich has established Journey USA as part of the global community to offer courses, programs, and trainings within the United States and abroad.
This ministry has developed a strong reputation of helping Christian men and women walk through their healing journey. This is possible because the ministry is based on a set of core principles and foundational beliefs, which guide and direct all that happens at Journey USA.
“By providing sound biblical teaching for the relationally and sexually broken, Journey meets a critical need within churches— offering hope, healing and wholeness to those in despair, crisis, and confusion.”
How We Minister
As a Christ-centered ministry, we follow the biblical foundation of serving people with compassion, integrity and dependence on the Holy Spirit. In all we do, we share Jesus—the One who is full of grace and truth (John 1:14). The following are some of the founding principles of Journey USA:
Healing is a journey and a process
By relying on the Holy Spirit to renew people, we try to provide a basis for a lifetime process of healing in our identity, sexuality and relationships. This process includes Christian discipleship, which needs to take place in the body of Christ. Thus each Journey group is part of the local church.
Men and women are image bearers
We also believe that healing best occurs when men and women minister together, releasing the presence of God to one another that corresponds with our deepest needs for love.
Jesus is at the heart of healing
At the center of the journey is the cross of Jesus Christ discovered in His community—the means through which we have access to the Father’s love. The cross is the place where we lay down our sins and wounds, and receive the Holy Spirit of resurrection. At the cross, Journey seeks to explore the wounded and complex habits of the heart in order to impart the truthful, healing love of Jesus there.
“Many days I wished my sexual and relational struggles would just go away. I often hoped for some magic cure that would fix my pain. Instead I’ve come to realize that the healing of my heart and soul comes as I seek Jesus. He alone is what I need.”
What We Believe
Founded upon biblical principles, Journey USA adheres to the following beliefs, which make up our statement of faith.
- We believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the inspired Word of God, the final authority of doctrine, reproof, correction and instruction in right living.
- We believe in one God, existing eternally in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
- We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, fully human and fully God, only begotten Son of the Father. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, and lived a sinless life. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, buried and rose physically from the dead. He ascended to the right hand of the Father and will come again in power and glory.
- We believe that faith alone in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord frees us from the mastery of sin, and its consequences of death and eternal damnation. He assumed the penalty of death Himself, and enables us to live out of His resurrected life unto eternity.
- We believe the Holy Spirit carries out this work of renewal in our lives, empowering us to grow in loving union with our Heavenly Father and to walk in obedience to His will.
We believe that the church of Jesus Christ is formed of all those who know Him as their Savior and Lord, regardless of denominational beliefs.


Hopko is not a common surname, and Hopko genealogies are rare. The only one we have found is listed in the catalog of the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, which is the primary library for family historians to send their work. According to the catalog notes, the early Hopko/Hobko family members lived in the Province of Rzeszow, which is the southeasternmost province of Poland.
Our cousins in Gregorovce told us that Basil Hopko, the bishop of the Greek Catholic diocese in Presov, used to visit Gregorovce -- they thought he was seeing his Hopko relatives. We decided to learn more about Bishop Hopko.
The Seminary and Cathedral of the Greek Catholic Church are in Presov. No doubt this was where the Greek Catholic priest Jozef Maslej of Sarisske Sokolovce had studied. We visited this beautiful cathedral on Monday, and found our way to the two side chapels to the bishops Basil Hopko Bishop Hopko in Presov Cathedral (1904-1976) and Paul Gojdich (1888-1960) who were imprisoned, placed on starvation rations, and tortured under the communist regime in Czechoslovakia. As a consequence, both men were beatified by Pope John Paul II.
Bishop Hopko was a Rusyn, or Lemko, from the small village of Hrabske, near the Polish border. Although we have established no firm genealogical connection to Bishop Hopko, it seems likely that the entire Hopko family is Lemko (or Carpatho-Rusyn).
The Carpatho-Rusyns are associated with the Greek Catholic religion, and the wooden Greek Catholic churches of Eastern Slovakia are favorite tourist The Dukla Battle Memorial attractions. We resolved to take a day trip eastward. (We had been warned not to travel into the Ukraine; even our younger cousins left their cars at the border and walked across to do their shopping. We will wait before making such a trip.)
Tuesday morning Tom, Elsa, and Bob set out together, as Marilyn spent the day recovering from a bug. Our first destination was Dukla Pass, where there are the greatest concentration of wooden Greek Catholic churches, and also the scene of an important battle of World War II.
The Battle of Dukla Pass is not given much mention in American histories of World War II, probably because few English-speaking soldiers fought there. Nevertheless it was an important strategic objective for the Red Army in 1944, Elsa, Tom and Russian Tank as it gave their armored divisions a clear avenue for the rush to Berlin. The advancing armies included the Czechoslovak Army Corps under Brigadier Ludvik Svoboda, who later became president of Czechoslovakia.
There were nearly 150,000 casualties in the battle, and the countryside was strewn with tanks, planes, and guns for years afterward. We found the pass a quiet and peaceful scene, spotted with monuments and some military equipment mounted on concrete platforms as memorials. The most moving display is the memorial and graveyard for the Czechoslovak troops at the top of the pass, adjoining the Polish border. There is a large observation tower, but it had already closed for the season.
Wooden church at Mirola We visited the wooden churches at Bodruzal and Mirola, situated just 6 kilometers off the Dukla Pass road. Tom worked his customary magic and conjured up the local representative of the Save The Wooden Churches organization to open the 17th century Greek Catholic church at Bodruzal. Customarily the tallest bulb-shaped spire is over the entrance, the lowest over the altar; the three towers signify the Trinity. The iconostasis, which separates the congregation in the nave from the priests at the altar, is illustrated with representations of the Trinity, the apostles, and the patron saint of the church.
At the base of the Dukla Pass sits the town of Svidnik, which was burned by the retreating German Army and is now rebuilt. We visited the Museum of Ukrainian-Ruthenian Culture, where we encountered a young woman, Tatjana, Rusyn or Lemko migrations who spoke English. She offered to go through the museum with us, leaving her little sister with her mother.
The ethnic group has been known under the names Rusnaky, Ruthenians, Malorussians, Carpathorussians, Ugrorussians, Subcarpathian Rusyns, Lemkos, Ruthenian-Ukrainians, Ukrainians, etc. The migrations into Poland and Slovakia, extending into what is now the Czech Republic, took place in the 13th to 17th centuries (see map.) In the following years, the cultural characteristics of these immigrant peoples have slowly evolved to distinct subcultures in Poland and Slovakia.
Svidnik Museum display Ethnic groups eventually become diluted through intermarriage, as occurred in Labowa, Poland, and in our Hopko family as well. The weakening of the Lemko tradition in modern Poland and Slovakia is evidenced by the shift in church attendance from the Greek to Roman Catholic, and from the Cyrillic to the Roman alphabet. The ethnographer traces the cultural characteristics such as building styles, clothing, tools, art, and folkways, all of which were beautifully displayed in the museum. We purchased a new book by Dr. Miroslav Sopoliga detailing the Ruthenian culture in Slovakia. We have made it a goal to translate this book, but this will no doubt be a slow process.
Bardejov plaza We were not done with our trip! Bardejov is considered by many to be the most beautiful town in Eastern Slovakia, and we travelled there to view its huge open plaza surrounding the 16th century town hall and the Basilica of St. Egidius. After walking around the town and visiting an unbelievable butcher shop with a wide array of sausages and cold cuts, we spied the characteristic three spires of a Greek Catholic church. "Hello," said a young lady as we walked toward the door. Of course we greeted her in English and of course she offered to show us the Greek Catholic church. This kind of warm help to tourists in Slovakia is wonderful!
She explained that the Greek Catholic priests are encouraged to marry before they take holy orders, that the iconostasis should be thought The Hopko memorial in Hrabske of as writing, not painting, originally designed to explain the Bible to illiterate parishioners, and that the Greek Catholic mass differed in a number of particulars from the Roman Catholic mass, including the priests' use of incense and walking behind the altar.
Leaving Bardejov, we stopped on the way home to see the village of Hrabske, birthplace of Bishop Hopko. The village was in the process of a building a beautiful shrine and visitor center in honor of their native son, but it was not yet open.
On the road to Hrabske we passed a gypsy village. A few permanent buildings have been augmented by dozens of corrugated shacks. A dozen young boys played stick hockey in the road. Later, in the twilight, we saw gypsies on their A Roma village way back to this village stopping to harvest some potatoes from a field.
Gypsies, or Roma comprise about 5% of the population of Slovakia. They are the objects of adverse discrimination throughout Europe; their principal problems are poverty, unemployment, and crime. Having been protected by the paternalistic communist governments, gypsy welfare benefits were reduced by the emerging Eastern European democracies. With high birth and mortality rates, the average age and educational level of the gypsy population is low. The Decade of Roma Inclusion is an initiative launched in 2005 by nine central and southeastern European countries to improve the conditions of the Roma.


St. Mark's Terraces, Penn Yan and Dundee, are corporations governed by one voluntary Board of Directors. The Board is composed of members from both the Penn Yan and Dundee areas who are active in their communities but are not required to have previous housing management experience.
St. Mark's Housing is non-denominational; several board members are part of the congregation of St. Mark's Episcopal Church as a requirement of the original housing charter. Members are appointed for three year terms.
Board Members for the 2021 term are:
President: Rector of St. Mark's Church, Reverend Dan Burner
Vice President: James Harris
Treasurer: Carolyn Hopkins
Secretary: Karen Christiansen
Dr. Craig Sandberg
Debra Hafleigh – Executive Director


Welcome to St Andrew's Church of England Primary Academy
We are really pleased to be able to share our SIAMs (Statutory Inspection of Anglian & Methodist Schools (SIAMS). We are delighted that our strengths have been fully recognised and that the school was judged overall to be a good Church school: "The distinctiveness and effectiveness of St Andrew's as a Church of England school are good".
The quality of our "vibrant, inviting spiritually enriching" learning environment and the "very strong sense of belonging to a caring, inclusive Christian community, where there is mutual respect" as well as pupils' enjoyment of RE lessons where "We watch video clips, have discussions and I look forward to RE now because it is fun and I learn and remember more" are among the many positives highlighted in the report. As we move forward in 2017, we look forward to building on the GOOD result and apply the lessons leaned to other area of the school improvement as well as aiming to continue this good work by further developing RE lessons, as well as other recommendations made in the report to work towards an Outstanding outcome next time we are inspected.
The full report came be found under the tab About us > Ofsted/SIAS
For our latest Diary Dates please have a look at the Parents tab - Newsletters
LIVING THE LOGO
The tree represents the fact that we are a nurturing, forest school.
The leaves represent the diversity and unity of our school community working and learning together. It represents the fact that we are about the growth of the whole child and that we are stronger as a team.
The hand as the branches of the tree represents our 'AIM high' motto, reaching up for strength and support from the community, as well as aiming to be good contributors to our community - striving to be the best we can be.
The tree growing out of the book comes from how we see that children grow from their learning, inspiring a love of books and reading, as well as respect and love of the stories in the Bible.
The white cross at the heart of the tree, makes clear our commitment to our church values and the fact that we are proud of our status as church academy within the DNEAT family.
Written collectively by St. Andrew's pupils & staff, Jan 2016
We are life-long learners... What does that mean? Find out here...
Our small school (50 children on roll) is also home to our thriving pre-school, Little Sunbeams.
We serve the communities of North and South Pickenham and the surrounding area. Could you help by becoming one of our team of school Governors (more information on being a Governor) or joining the Friends of St Andrew's?
Our Facebook page has the latest school news and information. Emergency school closure information will be broadcast on local radio or you can visit www.schoolclosures.norfolk.gov.uk
This page has all our contact details.
This page contains links to all the information that we are required to publish by the Department for Education.


FFM HOME CHURCHES
Home churches meet once a month in the relaxed comfort of members' homes to fellowship and explore God’s Word. No formalities here! Meetings are brief, refreshments are served, and the groups offer prayer for individual needs.
GOD ANSWERS PRAYER AT THE HOME CHURCHES!
HOME CHURCH LEADERS AND INFO:
Leaders: Prophet Cori Shelton, Calvin Marshall Jr., Anthony J. Adams Jr.
Hosts: Calvin & Latoya Marshall Jr.
Contact: (504) 344-4956
Leaders: Apostle Sherman Shelton Sr.
Hosts: Berdell Bland, Brenda Hall, Laurita Barras
Leaders: David Hassenbolher
Hosts: Steve & Marie Daigle
Address: 1604 Manson Ave. Metairie, LA 70001
Contact: (504) 382-8774
(ALL EASTBANK LOCATIONS MEET AT THIS LOCATION)
N.O. EAST CHAMPIONS:
Leaders: Frank Bissant
Leaders: Sam Rapp
Host: Willie Mae Gross
One brother who had been denied $10,000 by the bank requested prayer for the needed monies to repair his home. God provided the $10,000 from a source whom he did not even ask!
A connected member in need of finances to pay college fees was told that her grant money had run out. After her group prayed, the school called back to say she now had funding for her classes.
Two connected members of this group who are siblings were both in need of employment and report receiving jobs following requests for prayer from their home church.
A connected member of this home church reports concern when called into a meeting with her boss. Instead of a reprimand, she was given a bonus and told how very lucky her employers feel to have her on their staff!
The group prayed for a connected member in need of a job. Her job was manifested shortly thereafter. She is now employed as a teacher, the job for which she received her degree.


PODS are same gender groups of approximately 5 people that focus on discipleship and accountability through regular meetings where time is spent in the Word, prayer, and application. We currently have many PODS of both men and women, some of which are peer groups and some that are more mentoring groups. If you would like to know more about PODS, contact Pastor Joel at email@example.com.
Senior Adults ministry was originally designed for those 55 and older, but more recently has become an outlet for any adult. This group has regular social functions including monthly restaurant gatherings and monthly activities. Over 70 people have participated in one way or another through this ministry in the last year. For more information, please contact Judy Daye.
Beginning in September, our FUSION groups will be using Starting Point from Andy Stanley and NorthPoint Church. Everything has a starting point – your life, your relationships, your education, your career. Sometimes we forget that faith has a starting point as well. But what if you could find a new starting point for faith?
Join a group for this 8 week series. This is a great study for anyone!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR A FUSION GROUP
We have a FUSION GROUP for you!
There are groups for EVERYONE—couples, singles, males or females, young adult or senior citizen. We have groups with couples only or singles and couples together. FUSION Groups are starting soon and we would love for you to join us. Check out the information below and sign up NOW!
What is a FUSION Group?
A FUSION group is a relationally based gathering of 8-16 individuals. These individuals interact, support and pray for one another and meet once a week to discuss a Biblically based lesson. Each group will have the opportunity to participate in outreach projects, celebration services and fun social times.
What happens at a FUSION Group Meeting?
FUSION Group meetings are typically held in homes and last approximately 2 hours. The group participates in discussion and prayer. Meetings also include a time of light refreshments before or afterwards.
Why should I be in a FUSION Group?
FUSION Groups are a reat way to get connected to others in a very special way. FUSION group members provide support for their group members during times of crisis and concern. Being in a FUSION group allows you to grow in your faith and get connected to others.


In light of things I’ve been learning and growing in as a parent and spouse, I was thinking about this post yesterday on my Dad’s 61st birthday.
love, love, love my dad.
From February 2, 2008:
“Tomorrow, February 3rd, is my dad's 57th birthday. Thinking about what to get him, on a recent drive into Austin, (No radio for a sleeping baby gives one much time to think.) led me to think about why he is such a good dad.
What I decided is that there are so many things that I love about Dad... how he tells stories, loves a good laugh, his "nuggets" of truth, that everyone that knows him--loves him, how clueless he is sometimes, etc...
but there are 3 main things that make him so special to me.
1. How much he loves me...
He never had any trouble telling me that he loved me.... "with all (his) heart, for real, for real, forever and ever" every time he thought about it. I'm the only kid I know that was "bu-wudduh-wudduhed on" every night (sometimes mercilessly). He maybe didn't go to every one of my choir concerts, but he took an active interest in the shaping of my character and the growing of my spirit. Research shows that so much about a girl rests on her relationship with her dad. I always had an identity in his love and correction and KNEW I had great worth, so didn't search for it in less fulfilling places.
2. How much he loves my mom...
I think it does something extra special for a daughter's spirit when she knows, without a doubt, that her dad thinks her mom is the most beautiful creation on this earth and wants to be around her every second of every day. My sister and I heard him say every Sunday morning when were ready to go to church, "You SURE are pretty," in that distinctive Texas drawl. We knew that she is his favorite person in the world and that he felt it to be the greatest gift just to call her his wife.
3. How much he loves Jesus...
Some of my earliest memories are emerging sleepy-eyed from my room in the morning to see my dad sitting at the table with his Bible. From an early age, Suzanne and I both got to hear the profound thoughts and revelations that my dad was receiving. He was always ready to pray as a family and draw our attention to the way God was working in the life of our family in the times of blessing and times that tested his faith. Most important of all, I got to see that his relationship with Jesus was something that he devoted time and energy to and was always growing.
Being that I share his same sense of humor.... we aren't comfortable being sentimental much... but sometimes it's called for. This public proclamation should last for quite a few years.
In one more bit of serious-ness, I was blessed to have him as a dad and I'm so excited for Luke and Lily (and Ethan and Eli) to get to have him as their Granddad. (renamed ‘Augie’ by Lukie B.)”


We will be meeting periodically through out the summer. For dates and times please call Randy at the church.
Starting back in September we will meet every Thursday evening where we want to provide a space for young adults to study God's word, pray, and grow in relationships with one another and Jesus. All those graduated up to the age of 30 are welcome!
When: More info to follow
“Like” our Facebook page to be informed of other events that come up during the week.
For more information contact Randy at 250-334-3432 or email: [email protected]


(Below is a Testimony I gave at a Community Bible Study meeting. My friend Sondra who is also a great editor, edited this for me from it’s original version. I decided to keep it mostly ‘as is’ and not completely edit it for this blog. I pray somehow this will encourage you.)
My name is Rebecca and I am here today to share with you God’s work and faithfulness in my life through a difficult journey with 2 of my 4 children after they were diagnosed with Autism. It was a journey that I was not prepared for in any earthly sense. But looking back, I see how God prepared me spiritually for this unexpected journey.
My testimony begins when I was a single, 22 year old new believer in the Lord Jesus. I was basking in the newness and the fire God placed in my heart for Him. Everyone around me heard the Gospel and I couldn’t wait to tell others what He was showing me in Scripture. I understood his Word for the first time and in my zeal I would ask my brothers and sisters in my singles group to pray for me to be put through the refiner’s fire – because I wanted to really grow-and grow now!
God had given me favor at my place of employment and he gave me a blessed ministry there with women as well as the women in my single’s group at church. My time with God was rich. I spent 8 years as a single pouring myself into the study of His word and in fellowship with Him.
God was also faithful in surrounding me with solid believers who helped me get grounded in His word and kept my face turned toward Him. When I think of my journey, the verses in Lamentations 3:22 and 23 come to mind: “The LORD’S loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail, they are new every morning, great is your Faithfulness”.
After eight years of walking with God as a single, God answered my prayer and I met my husband at a picnic. I fell in love with his humble heart for the Lord Jesus and his desire to minister to singles. God was faithful and answered my prayer many times over. We dated and then married a year later. God blessed our marriage with our first son Elijah, and after a short time we were pregnant again with our second son, Isaac. Elijah and Isaac were awesome babies, but needless to say life got a lot busier for Patrick and me.
When Isaac was almost 2 years old, our third son Andrew was born. At this point in time, I had 3 boys under the age of 4.
Elijah was a chatterbox and spoke at an early age. But Isaac didn’t talk much at all and wasn’t interested in interacting with other children. He was pretty quiet compared to his older brother, and a few of my friends would mention how it must be a relief to have my second boy be so quiet. Another friend told me he didn’t talk much because Elijah did it for him, so I just assumed he was a quiet child by nature.
As time went on, Isaac’s quietness and lack of social play with other children grew more pronounced. All he could do was repeat the last line of phrases he would hear. He also started occasionally flapping his hands and exhibiting non-functional pacing. That graduated into flipping his fingers in front of his face real fast over and over again. Instead of playing with cars and trucks the normal way, he would run them up and down the wall repeatedly. He did not have any understanding of what to do with the rest of the toys. When he received a Buzz Lightyear life size doll for his birthday, he would take the doll and hurt himself with it because he had no concept of pain, so I had to take it away.
Isaac was unable to make eye contact with people. He also began throwing tantrums and going into mini trances or stares that were hard to get him out of. He would go round and round in circles with his head tilted like he was chasing his tail. He was unable to make expressions on his face as well as understand other people’s expressions. He was also born without the ability to imitate which is an essential tool God has given us and is foundational for learning.
When taken to a playground, Isaac would vanish and the next thing we knew he would be at the top of the tallest ladder – totally unaware of the danger. He did this frequently and one time jumped into the deep end of the pool and almost drowned. Needless to say, we were becoming increasingly frightened and very concerned.
We had been to a pediatric doctor who told me to keep an eye on him and if he wasn’t talking by age 2 ½ then we will research further.
I didn’t want to wait. It was obvious something was wrong, so a friend told me to get on the waiting list at a disability unit at a hospital where he could get a thorough look by a team of doctors. So I put Isaac’s name on the list.
After waiting for two months, Isaac was seen by a team of Doctors. We endured a half a day observation by a psychologist, speech therapist, Occupational therapist, pediatric doctor and a full hour observation by the hospitals top pediatric neurologist. At the end of the day they pulled us into the room, handed us a box of Kleenex and told us to sit down. “I’m sorry but your son has Autism”. I asked how bad it was and they told us he was presenting “severe”, but that it could change in time with good therapy.
Patrick cried. I didn’t. Instead I took the reins. You see, I was always able to fix things in my life. When any adversity came along, I was able to fix it and it was out of my hair pretty quickly, but this time it was going to be different as I would soon find out. The first words out of my mouth were, “O.K. so how do we fix this”. They explained to me that with the right therapies he could improve so much that others might not be able to tell he has it, but there are no guarantees. They explained that he will never lose his Autism or be cured.
I wouldn’t allow myself to grieve because I didn’t think it would do Isaac any good. By grieving, I thought that somehow I would lose control. What I had to learn was that this was completely out of my control. I didn’t know how to handle this, but God in his great compassion and mercy knew I was struggling with a myriad of emotions. Control, worry, anxiety – you name it – I was experiencing it. What I needed to do was to quit clinging to God like I was hanging off a cliff, but rather let go and fall into his arms. God in his patience knew that would take time. I was still wrestling with God – trying to take the reins and to stay in control of this trial.
Finally, a year later while driving in the van on the way to a friend’s house I broke down and cried out to God for his mercy on Isaac. I finally surrendered my illusion of control and let go. And it was by letting go that I finally fell into the strong and loving arms of my Heavenly Father. Matthew 11:28-30 says: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
During this journey, the Holy Spirit so faithfully counseled me with God’s Words. He brought them out of my heart – where I had stored them so many years ago – and into my mind. He comforted me over and over again through His living Word. I clung to God’s promise in Isaiah 26 where He tells us to keep our minds staid on Him and He will keep us in perfect peace, and to trust Him because He is our everlasting rock. He used Philippians 4: 6-7 to remind me to: “Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God and the peace of God which surpasses all comprehension will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
God continued to give me His peace in the midst of my pain. It still amazes me how God used all those verses I memorized and all that time in his word as a single to prepare and strengthen me for this time.
At the time of Isaac’s diagnosis, we were also studying scripture with an older wiser couple, Bob and Nancy, whom God graciously gave us during this time.
Bob said something to Patrick and me that I have not forgotten to this day. He told us that God had wired Isaac this way. He had allowed Isaac to have Autism. Bob reminded us that his Autism was no accident and that God had a plan and a purpose for Isaac – just as he is. Psalm 103:19 says,“God has established his throne in the heavens and his sovereignty rules over all”. Yes, God is sovereign and knows what He is doing – not just in our lives – but in Isaac’s life as well.
So we embarked on the long and arduous journey of intensive in home therapy, but God wasn’t done increasing our family and He surprised us with our fourth son Jacob. I have to admit I was scared when I found out I was pregnant with Jake. We were in the midst of doing intensive therapy with Isaac and I had Andrew and Elijah who needed me, a husband working long hours and I was now pregnant again. I was overwhelmed, but God had me in a place where I could look nowhere but in His face.
Four years after Isaac’s diagnosis our eldest son Elijah was diagnosed with a mild form of Asperger’s Syndrome which is on the Autism spectrum. So, now we had two with Autism. They told us to keep an eye on our third son. Worry crept in and again the Holy Spirit gave me His word to combat my thought life during this uncertain time.
One of my greatest worries was that Isaac would never be able to understand the Gospel. Whenever Satan put this worry in my mind, God reminded me again of how He is the one who prepares and brings understanding to the heart, and yes he can do this with Isaac.
Flash forward to today. Isaac is 9, he gave his life to Jesus two years ago, on his own. God brought him understanding. Even someone with Autism who sees life completely different than the rest of us can understand and accept God’s great gift of salvation. Praise be to God!
Isaac is now high functioning. His Autism will never go away, and he still struggles with friendships and social interaction, but it could be a lot worse.
As for me, remember the prayer I asked my single’s group to pray for me so many years ago? That I would be put through the Refiner’s Fire so I could grow? Well, God has spent the last Twenty Three years refining me. He has taught me that we will encounter various trials until we are taken home to glory, and that Isaac is His, not mine. He taught me that only by giving up control, by surrendering; by fully running to Him and resting in His arms while entrusting Isaac into His capable hands would I experience the peace of God which passes all understanding.
Patrick and I are currently helping with an Autism Support Group that has started in our community. We are thrilled that we have the opportunity to be salt and light to the young couples who have new diagnoses, who are right where we are at. I can’t imagine going through this without Jesus.
I would like to conclude my testimony today by glorifying the Lord in song. The song I would like to sing is what I call my “soul song” to God during this trial. I can testify that God gave me His peace as I struggled daily to let go of the cliff and fall into his arms. I pray this song will encourage those of you who may be struggling with an unexpected journey today. It is called “It is Well with My Soul”. Thank you so much.


Crestview Baptist Church
7600 Woodrow Ave
Crestview Baptist Church, Austin
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"Today I come to you as Mother of the World. I want to tell you I am so very happy for all of your generous prayers. You have saved many children with your prayers and have averted many chastisements. But, this I tell you: there will be many more storms to ride out for you. Many weather changes.
Oh, my children, REPENT of your horrible sins before they DESTROY you! You are letting evil take over your lives. Your money has taken over your lives as your god. There are many Luciferians,--your young people worship DEMONS as gods. Why do you not take care of your families? Your children were a GIFT from God. Pray for these waylaid children, and bring them back to the Lord.
God is very hurt over all the evil; my Son's Heart is pierced by your sins; you do not value human life. Your marriages,--most have not welcomed Jesus into their marriages. Children, take your marriage to God; take your children to God; teach your children of the Love and Mercy of Jesus.
Give your lives to Jesus. Do you not know how much God LOVES you?
He gave His ONLY Son for your salvation!
Jesus gave His LIFE for your sins!
As this week approaches, go to Confession. Make your body a temple to God. Take my Son's Body, that He asked you to do in remembrance of Him. Love your Jesus and remember He was risen from the dead, and ascended to Heaven to be with His Father to make a place for YOU. Soon He will come again and you MUST be prepared for His return.
Make it known that evil will NEVER rule Jesus' Church, Jesus will not allow that to happen. When the Anti-Christ takes over Rome, Jesus and the angels will return to fight the last battle, and Jesus will reign. My Immaculate Heart WILL triumph against the demons of the netherworld, who roam your earth seeking the ruin of souls. They will all be sent to Hell and Satan will be chained. Pray MUCH, my children, PRAY, for the time is upon you!
I have asked my daughter ( Patricia Mundorf ) to make a booklet of the messages I have given to her, so she may spread the word to many more people and to go where asked, to speak of her messages from me and about how she came to know my Son, Jesus. Any monies made are to be returned to my mission, to teach the world of my love, and the Love and Mercy of Jesus to all the world, to save many souls, to help the poor,--those in need of food , clothing and shelter. These will be determined by a table of people.
I also have asked for a medal to be cast of Jesus' and My Heart intertwined with the thorns, as I had shown Patricia before. I will continue to guide her in the ways of making this medal. All monies collected are only donations and no charge will be given for this, or any of my daughter's work. The donations will go for the poor.
If Jesus were to come to you hungry, cold or in need of a place to stay, would you turn HIM away?? Well the poor are just as Jesus was when He roamed the earth teaching My children of the way of salvation,--He hungered and you fed HIM.
YOU ARE ALL GOD'S CHILDREN. I leave you in Love and Peace.
Thank you, my children, for responding to my call."
Mary said: "My dear children, today I come to you as you remember my Son's Passion, His dying on the cross for your sins to give you eternal life with the Father.
As Jesus' mother, I do remember how he suffered from the straps that beat him, the thorns as they dug into his brow, the taunting, and name-calling. Oh, how I wanted to stop it all and hold my Son in my arms and SOOTHE His pain! But I knew it was not to be.
His life He gave for you, to save your souls from eternal damnation. Give your lives over to JESUS, my children!
Satan and his demons are now lurking throughout your lands trying to taunt you, as Jesus was taunted. He knows that his time is little in this world, and he is trying to get many to be his soldiers. I tell you this, his time is SHORT.
We WILL do battle and our children will join us in battle, and Jesus will reign over the earth. Satan will be chained in Hell for all eternity. I will crush the serpent's head.
My children, look forward to your Millennium year. Be at peace with your neighbors of all nations. Learn to love all, and to give of yourselves.
This Sunday as you celebrate Jesus' Rising from the dead, look forward to what lies ahead of you after all your battles. I ask you to take up your cross and be strong. Unite in Faith , my children. Unite in Love. Give of yourselves to save all of humanity. Let your ideations and earthly treasures be gone from you.
This summer in your land, my daughter, there will be many problems with your crops in your fields. Prepare now for this occurrence. In many lands there will be famine. Will brother help brother? This we will see.
God gives you all trials thru your lives. He wants you to show your love and know your inner self.
My children, I have told you there were to be many more storms for you. They are NOT over. Be prepared. Look to your Bible, to your Gospels, when you want to know what to do.
My children, You ask of taking my Son's Body in your hands. I tell you this, you must follow Church law. There are God's Laws, and Church law which can be changed by the Seat of Peter.
I ask you, what do you WANT to do? There HAVE been many changes. Pray, my children, for a return to your TRUE Faith. Follow your Pope.
My children, receive my Son's body NOW, while you CAN, as there will come a time when you may not be ABLE to partake of this Gift. Then you will know that my Son will soon come to earth with His heavenly angels to do the Final Battle.
Pray MUCH, my children! Do penance for your sins; offer yourselves to Jesus while there is still TIME.
Thank you, my children, for obeying and allowing my words into your hearts.


The Vice President of Mission Integration provides leadership in the design, development, implementation, evaluation and coordination of programs, and activities to ensure and advance mission and values integration, Catholic identity, the charisma of sponsoring Congregations, organizational and clinical ethics, spiritual care, workplace spirituality and clinical pastoral education and community benefit services. The position is also responsible for community outreach, involvement and partnerships, including the local Catholic community and the Archdiocese of San Antonio. The Vice President of Mission Integration is a member of the regional senior leadership team.
A Master's degree in theology, scripture, spirituality, ethics or the equivalent.
Must be fully bilingual English and Spanish
Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to work as a team member; poise and clarity in group presentations.
Understands and is committed to Catholic healthcare.
Proven experience in planning, management and implementation skills.
Knowledge of the history and heritage of the sponsoring Congregations.
In depth knowledge of the Catholic Church and its moral teachings with particular familiarity with the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services.
A practicing Catholic with experience in Catholic healthcare.
Experience in either developing or working with church and church leaders, outreach programs and services and mission related activities.
Minimum of three years of experience working in a healthcare organization with an understanding of healthcare operations.
CHRISTUS HEALTH is an international Catholic, faith-based, not-for-profit health system comprised of almost more than 600 services and facilities, including more than 60 hospitals and long-term care facilities, 350 clinics and outpatient centers, and dozens of other health ministries and ventures. CHRISTUS operates in 6 U.S. states, Colombia, Chile and 6 states in Mexico. To support our health care ministry, CHRISTUS Health employs approximately 45,000 Associates and has more than 15,000 physicians on medical staffs who provide care and support for patients. CHRISTUS Health is listed among the top ten largest Catholic health systems in the United States.


This Mughal tinted drawing of the Virgin and Child dates to the11th century AH/AD 17th. The Virgin Mary is shown in a diaphanous light pink garment seated beside two baskets. She looks toward the infant Jesus, who clasps her hand. The image documents Mughal interest in themes circulated by the Jesuits and European traders. The Virgin and Child were popular subject matter under the Mughal emperors, especially Akbar and Jahangir.
Ink and pigments on paper