Monthly Archives: November 2016

As we prepare for the upcoming Christmas season through Advent, let us remember what Paul has said to us in his letter to the Ephesians “thererefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved … Continue reading →

Growing up, my Dad used to remind me: inside every dark cloud, there’s a silver lining and along with every silver lining comes a dark cloud. He explained that life is a series of wonderful moments, terrible moments and so-so … Continue reading →

To me, solid comfort is my cozy lounge chair with a snuggly fleece blanket and a compelling book. Maybe I’ll add some soft music and a flickering candle. I’m relaxed just thinking about it. Or it could be my favorite … Continue reading →

I heard earlier this week that a recent article reports that a child’s father and grandparents (grandfathers had slightly more influence than grandmothers) are the biggest influence on a child’s faith formation and whether or not a child will attend church … Continue reading →

It’s that time of year again– Thanksgiving, Christmas and then the New Year.  If you’re like me, you sometimes get caught up in what needs to get done– in the details of holiday preparation– trying to make it a special … Continue reading →

Yesterday we celebrated Thanksgiving. People all over America sat around a table eating with family, friends, or maybe even strangers.  At JOY, we gathered to celebrate Thanksgiving together and had a feast!  This reminds me of our weekly gatherings to … Continue reading →

So this bunch of illegal aliens turns up in the neighborhood, and some of them have the nerve to rob you.* Next thing you know most of them are sick and they don’t have enough food. What do you do? … Continue reading →

I just read a poem called the empty chair prayer.*  As we prepare for thanksgiving, we think of all the things that we are thankful for. I am thankful for all the people in my life that have previously occupied … Continue reading →

At Family Fun Night this month we created a group prayer.  As we talked about what we were thankful for, we passed around a sheet of paper and took turns drawing what we were talking about and what we were … Continue reading →

If you’re a parent, you probably remember little children who had no qualms about voicing their requests to you. Can I have an ice cream? Can I go over to Tommy’s house? I need cookies for school tomorrow! They didn’t … Continue reading →