A voice in the wilderness: Waiting, alone
Asa, right, with his brother, Gabe. I remember the first time I felt completely alone. I was about six years old, and had been on a bike ride with my family, which consists of…
2
Multiplying light
In the great plains of South Africa, there’s a poor farming community called Nieu-Bethesda. One of the small houses stands out from the rest. The yard is full of statues – cement camels and mermaids, wise men and angels, and lots of owls. They are bi…
3
Gathered at the table: Kathleen Sciacero
One might say that our family’s commitment to faith isn’t restricted by distance. We have a 65-mile drive to worship and confirmation classes when we travel to St. Paul. The ministry offered here alone is worth every mile traveled. I can still rememb…
5
Missed connections
Flying can be an isolating experience, which is ironic because airports and airplanes are usually crammed full of other people. But when you fly, your own needs and wants take up a substantial amount of space in your mind. Do you feel that way, too?…
2
Crumbs of Gratitude
Last week I took a few minutes to thoroughly sweep all the nooks and crannies in our kitchen. Especially horrifying are the patches of floor under the chairs where my children sit to eat their meals. (Our beloved black lab, Sydney, passed away earlie…
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Nourishing community: Sara Harless
Take a moment and think of a favorite dish from holiday dinners of the past. What did it taste like? What was it served in? Who made it? Who was gathered around the table. So many times, food serves as the foundation of some of the most important mem…
Gathered at the table: Ken and Carol Kerker
Carol was confirmed at St. Paul (many years ago), but we joined St. Paul as a couple after moving to Eldridge from Moline. We were looking for a church that offered the traditional Lutheran liturgy, varied opportunities for worship and service, an ac…
Gratitude. Groceries. Reunion.
On Thanksgiving Eve, Nov. 21, 7 p.m., come and give thanks, reunite with friends from near and far, and bring a bag of nonperishable food items and toiletries to help fill the shelves at the Friendly House Food Pantry (food can also be brought the we…
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Rehearsing faith
Growing up, I took piano lessons for the better part of seven years or so. And yet, if you sat me in front of piano today, about the only melody I might be able to produce would be one half of the Heart & Soul duet. Or maybe, if I had enough time…
1
Nourishing community: Amy Sivertsen
Take a moment and think of a favorite dish from holiday dinners of the past. What did it taste like? What was it served in? Who made it? Who was gathered around the table. So many times, food serves as the foundation of some of the most important mem…
1
Gathered at the table: Al and Sandy Hutson
We have found St. Paul to be a friendly, welcoming place to worship from the very first day we attended. After that first service, more than five years ago, we sat in the narthex enjoying a cup of coffee, while observing people greeting one another w…
1
Offering insight into moral injury
Jeff Zust’s grandfather and great-uncle served in the military during World War I. His grandfather came home, took off his uniform and threw it away. His great-uncle was injured, and spent much of the rest of his life in the hospital. He died of his…