This article was originally published on the blog for the Disability Ministries Task Force of the Susquehanna Conference Introduction Dear Friends, In the Susquehanna Conference, Disability Awareness Sunday is recognized as the second Sunday in October. It's a day when we recognize and honor the gifts and graces of people who are part of the… Continue reading Prayers for Disability Awareness Sunday
Category: Women in Ministry
Ten Fun Facts About Easter and United Methodism
He is Risen! He is Risen indeed! With Easter Sunday quickly approaching, I thought it would be fun to share some interesting facts about this special holiday and its connection to the United Methodist Church. Here are five fun facts you may not know: Easter is a “holiday” which comes from the words “Holy Day.”… Continue reading Ten Fun Facts About Easter and United Methodism
Four Reasons Why Disability Is Not a Bad Word: Why Language Matters
I was inspired to write this article because language has power. I know that people are often reluctant to use the term “disabled.” I especially see this reluctance in my work in the church. Well meaning people often suggest alternative terms, such as “differently abled,” or “special needs.” However, in the past, erasing the word “Disability” has been used as way to erase us.
10 Bible Verses on Forgiveness and Repentance for Your Lenten Journey
Personally, I'm dying for some chocolate (I gave up chocolate for Lent) and I am eagerly looking forward to the festivities of Easter. I have found it helpful to meditate on the following Bible verses during my Lenten journey
Free Crochet Cross Bible Bookmark Pattern
These make great gifts for your church family or Sunday School class! If you can make a granny square, you can make this cute bookmark!
My Top 12 Favorite Books of 2022
I love to read. This year I read 90 books from a variety of genres, including memoir, poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and theology. Lots of them were great, but these were some of my favorites that I highly recommend. What was the best book you read this year
Connecting to God Through Christ’s Mother: Our Lady Saint Mary by Rev. J.G.H. Barry, D.D
Even if you do not agree with all the assertions that Rev. Barry makes in this piece, I hope that it will give you some interesting food for thought in your own ministry setting this Advent. The section on the sacramental theology of baptism as viewed through a Marian lens is particularly interesting.
A Brief Summary of the 2022 Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference of the UMC with Suggestions for Accessibility
A Brief Summary of the 2022 Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference of the United Methodist Church with Suggestions for Accessibility The Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference (NEJ) of the United Methodist Church was held on November 2-4, 2022 in College Park, Maryland. The theme was “One in Ministry to All the World." Approximately 150 delegates, including both laity and… Continue reading A Brief Summary of the 2022 Northeastern Jurisdictional Conference of the UMC with Suggestions for Accessibility
Three Lessons I Learned as a Visually Impaired Piano Student
Subtitle: Piano lessons taught me about self-reliance, perseverance, and life! Note: This piece was written in response to the Pennsylvania Council of the Blind’s Prompt, “Self-Reliance.” Image shows the author seated on a piano bench Introduction: I remember the first time I ever saw a concert pianist. His name was Andre Watts and he was… Continue reading Three Lessons I Learned as a Visually Impaired Piano Student
Altoona District UMC Churches Purchase Lifechanging Device for Visually Impaired Teenager in Africa
Claudine is sixteen years old and visually impaired. After losing her parents, she found a home with Mama Arlene Brown and Hope Made Real. She dreams of becoming a doctor. In this photo, Rev. Rebecca and her husband, Jeff, stand with mama Arlene Brown. Mama Arlene Brown is originally from Pennsylvania. She started an orphanage… Continue reading Altoona District UMC Churches Purchase Lifechanging Device for Visually Impaired Teenager in Africa