“I pray always with joy in my every prayer for all of you, because of your partnership for the Gospel from the first day until now.” One of the great things about living in the liturgical season of time within the community of the Church is that there is always something new that recalls something past that projects into the future. none more pertinent time that this embodies is the current Season of Advent. Just think of it: we move into yet another pre-Christmas mode, recalling past times, perhaps even last Christmas, and many others, no doubt, to set the stage for something wonderful. “In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was tetrarch of Galilee…” Even the inspiration of Luke’s Gospel brings this concept alive because of the historical context with which it begins. At a certain place, in a certain span of time, God speaks and acts in our lives. Always has. Always will.
“For God will show all the earth your splendor: you will be named by God forever the peace of justice, the glory of God’s worship.” Here is the somewhat alarming yet not surprising assertion we will make today in honor of the “most wonderful time of the year.” How we prepare and celebrate Christmas says everything about how we prepare and experience the closing and perhaps most compelling last minutes of our lives. If we have done nothing and the 25th arrives and throws us into a panic, chances are that’s how it’s going to be when our time is up. If we have relished every single moment, song, quiet time with Jesus, listening and reading from the awesome Word of God, then Christmas will find us as excited as a child waiting for that special request lodged beneath the tree, not without a glance over to the dining room table to see if cookies and milk were enjoyed by the special guest. And then, my friends, it will be Christmas forever.
“He always knew he was a little different, but he let his light shine regardless of what others said. Be more like Rudolph!” from An Autistic Christmas.
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”