There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die…a time to weep and a time to laugh – Ecclesiastes 3 From the very beginning, we were created in God’s image. What an immense honor it is to have the features...
Author: Reverend Dr. Layne Beamer (Layne Beamer)
Cutting Back to Grow
I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. – John 15:1-2 No one likes the process of pruning and the pain of loss, but...
Teaching and Learning to be Family
In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future. – Alex Haley You are members of God’s family. Together, we are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. – Ephesians 2:19-20 As I write, Michyl-Shannon and I are back in my boyhood home on the...
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas.
While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth and laid him in a manger, because there was no place in their rooms. – Luke 2:6-7 Away in a manger, no crib for his bed, The little...
Stewardship of Our Three T’s
Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not regretfully or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. – 2 Corinthians 9:7And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. – Hebrews 13:16Everyone can be great because everyone can serve....
Trunk or Treat at an Urban Sanctuary
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear. – 1 John 4:18 Dear Sisters and Brothers, While it is true that the observance of Halloween has its roots in ancient pagan (particularly Druid)customs and beliefs, it is also true that the Church influenced the event. Attempting to counter variouspagan beliefs and...






