I don’t think I leave a diaconate conversation without hearing about the struggle deacons face regarding helping vs. hurting, enabling vs. empowering, rebuking vs. compassion. Whatever words we use to describe the debate, the fact … Read More
The Gift of Presence
Written by Bernita Tuinenga “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him.” 1 John 4:9 I love this … Read More
Hospitality as a gift
“Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. 2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers…” (Hebrews 13”1-2a) Imagine approaching a church as a total stranger and asking permission to use the facility for a … Read More
Grace or Disgrace
This time of year always stirs in me a vast array of emotions. I find myself unable to fathom the amount of torture, pain, suffering, humility, disgrace and inhumane behavior that occurred leading up to … Read More
The Leadership Training Event (LTE) 2014
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Matt 18:20 (ESV) The Leadership Training Event (LTE) 2014 has come and gone and is already a memory of the … Read More
It’s All About the Heart
What can I give him, poor as I am. If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb. If I were a wiseman, I would do my part. Yet what can I give him, … Read More
I am thankful for deacons
“In that wonderful day you will sing: ‘Thank the LORD! Praise his name! Tell the world what he has done. Oh, how mighty he is!’” Isaiah 12:4 (NLT) I love fall! Watching a tree turn … Read More
Reflections of the Leadership Training Event 2013!
(Leadership Training Event is an annual training for ministry leaders hosted by Volunteers In Service and CR Home Missions) The months of planning, organizing and preparing are complete. Volunteers arrive ready to serve and wait … Read More
The Importance of Relationships
Recently I was blessed by a drop-in visit from a very dear couple who has volunteered for VIS for many years. The day before was their 60th wedding anniversary and they were quite excited to … Read More