By Andy Hale Do you remember that moment when you knew your calling for the rest of your life? For some, it is an instantaneous moment for clarity. For others, it is more of a process of discernment. And still, for others, they are still trying to figure it out. At summer camp, when I … Continue reading
By Laura Stephens-Reed At the transfiguration, a recent lectionary text, Jesus invites Peter, James, and John – his executive committee – on a hike. A team-building exercise. A bit of continuing education. We don’t know if this committee has been briefed about what they’re going to witness at the peak. And even if they’ve gotten … Continue reading
By Andy Hale There are just some characters from certain movies that have an indelible mark on your life. For me, Robin Williams’ portrayal of boarding school teacher John Keating is one of those characters. Through literature, Keating inspired young me to rise above mediocrity and convention to become something more. This is encapsulated in … Continue reading
The following post comes from one of CBF’s field personnel, Michelle Norman. Michelle and her husband, Matt, were appointed CBF field personnel in 2011. They are currently waiting for proper paperwork to move to their field of service, Barcelona, Spain. Click here to support and learn more about the Norman’s ministry. “I have decided to follow Jesus, … Continue reading
As we prepare to move to Greece this summer to serve with Albanian immigrants through PORTA, Michelle and I have been keeping a close eye on the economic news in Europe. There are several Greek newspapers and sites that we follow each day to give us insight and we are learning much. Frequently, those whom … Continue reading
Perhaps you have heard the same weary questions, “What can we do to bring young people back into our church?” “Why are we declining?” “Our funding is becoming lower each month, what are we going to do to?” “What is the future of Baptists?” “Will Baptists exist in 50 years, and what of organizations like … Continue reading
Kenneson, Phillip, D. Life on the Vine, Cultivating the fruit of the Spirit in Christian Community. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1999. In the book Life on the Vine, Phillip Kenneson challenges the Western Church to take up the action of discernment. He wonders if the fruit of the spirit is in fact being cultivated … Continue reading