Author Archives: joyocala

I think as a whole, people tend to have a jealous nature. The degree of that jealousy can be harmful if one allows it to overtake their thoughts and actions. It can not only be toxic to others, but also … Continue reading →

I have just returned from a women’s club meeting where the speaker was a representative of the Sheriff’s office and the topic was avoiding scams, all kinds of scams. Corporal Remington did an admirable job of educating us on how … Continue reading →

I learned something new recently. In the middle ages, a woman who joined a monastery had to give a dowery, a payment, to the monastery. The effect was that most nuns or sisters were noblewomen or belonged to the upper … Continue reading →

This coming Sunday is Pentecost when the disciples received the Holy Spirit in public and began to preach the Good News about Jesus Christ to everyone.  The Holy Spirit is the part of God that makes us want to be with … Continue reading →

If we were perfect, we couldn’t belong. Church is a place, a sanctuary, a refuge for Imperfect sinners. Just this morning, and quite regularly, I am reminded how inclusive we are at this church called Joy, and to also be … Continue reading →

Before this month is over, three of my grandchildren will have celebrated graduations:  one from high school, one from college, and the third from grad school.  Since they’re brothers and sisters, they’ll celebrate with one BIG party of friends.   I … Continue reading →

I’m being a little silly with the title question but must confess to loving a calm sea on a small lake.  My brother owned a sailboat for a while and we sailed the intracoastal waterway in St. Augustine at dusk, watching … Continue reading →

I’m not challenging God’s revelation in Scripture, but some Bible stories puzzle me. There’s a story in 2 Kings 2:23-24 about the prophet Elisha on his way to Bethel. Some boys came out of the city and shouted at him: … Continue reading →

Here is a slightly edited blog from a couple of years ago. As I age, birthdays become even more meaningful for me. So this is my gift to you and to me and a tribute to all our mothers who … Continue reading →