Tag: Community
Everyone Counts
At the end of last month, I found myself watching the NFL draft. There are seven rounds, each with 32 slots for teams to fill out their rosters. The first night of the draft is a mega event with glitz and glamour as players, their families, college coaches, and fans wait to hear which team… Continue Reading Everyone Counts
Jesus is the Reason for the Season
Growing up, I enjoyed numerous Christmas traditions. One of my favorite celebrations was singing Christmas carols. My family moved while I was in high school, and our new neighborhood would have block parties on Memorial Day and Independence Day. At Christmas, our neighbor Eli would host a Christmas party. A small group of carolers would… Continue Reading Jesus is the Reason for the Season
A Time for Giving
Each year, as I search for the perfect Christmas gifts I think back to when I first began shopping. Growing up, one of the major department stores in downtown Cleveland created a Christmas shop just for children. My sister and I would take our savings, tied in a handkerchief, and attempt to find presents for… Continue Reading A Time for Giving
Making Things New Again
I am a film buff. Growing up, I watched classic movies on weekday afternoons and late at night, when I should’ve been asleep. When I have the opportunity I will watch films on Turner Classic Movies, to enjoy cinema from the silent era to the turn of the 21st century. Over the years, the channel… Continue Reading Making Things New Again
An Invitation to the Table – A Thanksgiving Message
In my parents’ house, this week was always super special. My mom, similar to many women of her generation, was an amateur chef. Her regular menu included smothered pork chops, meatloaf, fried chicken, and numerous casseroles. She looked forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas — the best investment of her culinary talents. She would do her… Continue Reading An Invitation to the Table – A Thanksgiving Message
Necesito Refrescar
These words come from a sermon I heard a few years ago. The English translation is basically, I need to refresh. These words are a reminder to examine where we are, what we’ve learned and how to reshape our lives in the midst of ongoing changes. The word refresh is synonymous with revive, enliven and… Continue Reading Necesito Refrescar
I Am Inspired
As the District Superintendent, I have the privilege to attend worship services, online and in person, of the faith communities in the District. This is also the season for Church Conferences in which I learn of the missions and ministries which are beginning or discovering new life, following our journey through COVID. I want to… Continue Reading I Am Inspired
I Am Not a Fair-Weather Fan
This past weekend was not a good one for many teams. Michigan State lost to the Buckeyes on Saturday. The Lions were unable to score any points against the Patriots on Sunday. And as I write this post, the Cleveland Guardians are losing to the Yankees, once again. For me, the most painful game on… Continue Reading I Am Not a Fair-Weather Fan
Devastation
When I was a child, I remember being affected by only one hurricane. It was Camille, a category 5 storm. Landfall was in the Mississippi and Louisiana areas. By the time the remnants of the storm reached Ohio, it sparked tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, and very strong winds. I was at camp at the time, and… Continue Reading Devastation
How Can I Keep From Singing?
The pandemic has changed the ways we live our lives. COVID updates are part of the daily newsfeed with positivity rates, hospitalizations and sadly death rates presented. Trips to stores and hospitals have encouraged or required us to wear a mask, maintain social distancing and check our temperatures on a regular basis. Delivery companies like… Continue Reading How Can I Keep From Singing?