Reflections

There are a number of things that can lessen or increase anxiety as a child gets ready to go to school for the first time. The first that comes to mind is an overall atmosphere of stress in daily family life. This may result in an increased level of anxiety and distraction. Is there consistency in family routines? Do kids … Read More

There are various points in life when a child deals with being away from home. There is the first day of Pre-school or Kindergarten if you do not home school. There is the first time going to camp and being away for a week. There is a teenager’s first unsupervised drive away from home for an out-of-state visit. Finally, there … Read More

“…eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3) In the body it is the living Spirit that holds all members together, even when they are far apart. So it is here. The purpose for which the Spirit was given was to bring into unity all who remain separated by different ethnic and cultural … Read More

The following is from the December Newsletter from Archangel Michael in Broadview Hts. Thank you Fr. John 1st CORINTHIANS – CHAPTER 13, Rewritten for the Christmas Season If I decorate my house perfectly with lovely plaid bows, strands of twinkling lights, and shiny glass balls, but do not show love to my family, I’m just another decorator. If I slave … Read More

At the end of a recent Liturgy I had the privilege of listening to ten children aged 6 to 14 recite as a group the first two chapters of the Book of Galatians from memory. I was amazed at this. How did they do it? They did so by practice and repetition, and it had to be disciplined. You don’t … Read More

I had hard time coming up with something to write about this week. Instead, read this piece taken from the OCA web page asking the question, “How can this be used as a teaching opportunity with ones’ children?” The blessing of the Lord be upon you. +Paul The writer of the Epistle or Letter of James is traditionally identified as … Read More

Galatians 1:15-16 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and had called me through his grace, was pleased to reveal his Son in me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles.  I preached on this verse several weeks ago and it has stuck with me ever since. Bear with me a moment as I … Read More

There is a lot of material wealth in this country. Many people have a good standard of living, and it shows by the kinds of things we have or are given. I gave up long ago buying gifts for anyone in my family, because they have so many things. I don’t know what I could give them that they don’t … Read More

If we are going to embrace a Sanctity of Life view, can we: Affirm that life begins at conception, which means saying no to abortion? Embrace and support policies that call for the proper care of families and their children who are here illegally until their status is addressed? Advocate for appropriate measures in our schools to keep children safe, … Read More

In the last 15 years, Halloween has increasingly become a major event celebrated in today’s secular culture. It is no longer just a day where kids go out to trick or treat for candy. Adults celebrate it with parties. TV and Hollywood make it a big item on their program list. It is put on a similar level as the … Read More