Author Archives: joyocala

Two strangers were fishing opposite each other on a beautiful Idaho trout stream. At sunset the younger fisherman went to greet the older fisherman on the far side of the stream. He was perplexed that the older fisherman had thrown … Continue reading →

I am a Stephen Ministry Leader. When I speak with people about this ministry, I am often met with confused looks and lots of questions. For a ministry that has been around for a long time with a stellar track … Continue reading →

My father, a machinist, could look at a blueprint and use it to turn stock metal into intricate machinery. Like my father, I took classes in drafting and machine shop, but unlike him most things I made didn’t turn out … Continue reading →

Here is a new recipe for beef-barley stew that I’m planning on trying. Brown and sear one pound of beef cut up into cubes. Add salt, onions, shallots, barley, and water. Simmer until tender. Finish by adding milk and crushed … Continue reading →

My congregation knows enough about me to know that I am a second-career pastor. My first “life” or career was as a Navy musician. The next layer of knowing this about me is that I originally wanted to be a … Continue reading →

May we never forget the men and women who fought for our freedom, who put their lives on the line for us. The 11th of November, first Armistice Day, now Veterans Day, marked the signing of the armistice by the … Continue reading →

In your lifetime, be it 10 years, 20 even 80 years, have you ever stumbled? I’m guessing everyone has stumbled more than once in their lifetime with decisions, with the aftermath of poor decisions or even physically stumbled or fallen. … Continue reading →

A new child in the family is coming soon. The room, its clothes, are prepared. Baby showers are given; the expectant mom is made comfortable; the dad is congratulated. Extensive preparations in joyful expectation are made. Do we enter Advent … Continue reading →

I have always loved Halloween. As a child, creating a unique costume consumed most of October. My mother was a good sport about the celebration; often staying up late to finish a special creation for one of the nine children … Continue reading →

We commemorate today three Lutheran missionaries: John Christian Heyer (1793-1873), Bartholomaeus Zigenbalg (1682-1718), and Ludwig Nommensen (1834-1918). Heyer and Zigenbalg were missionaries to India. Heyer was the first missionary sent by U.S. Lutherans. Danish-born Nommensen was the first Lutheran missionary … Continue reading →