As has been my chosen practice the past few years, my gift giving is in the form of a monthly donation to the relief work of Mercy Corps, based in Portland, Oregon; www.mercycorps.org. This year We are adding a bit to provide a “goat“ to a family in need. By accepting this card in an e-format you are contributing as well and Thank You!
2014 - WOW what a year! To begin with Veronica and Adam gave birth, OK! Mostly Veronica :0), on January 24 to Reuben Adam Ward, AKA “R.A.W.”. Welcome to our world Reuben! And possibly before the year is out Alexandria and Tim will be welcoming a daughter, Charlotte??(not official yet)! WoHoo!
In April Michael and I ventured over to Kauai. On the 28 th we put the finishing touches on a Labyrinth in Sherita’s Memory. Would have been our tenth. Special time at Momilani Kai (Pearl Cove).
Between immersion in the mystical world of emergence and the practical need to “preach” short sermons at Fern Gardens, I have been blessed with a peaceful focus toward relationship and service to all God’s Creation. At this period of the year, as we celebrate the Incarnation of God’s Love among us, that “Coming” becomes so close to each of us as we rest in that Spirit of Immanuel (God With Us).
Dealing with the beauty and visceral nature of facilitating a weekly communion service brings the sacramental nature to a new and even deeper understanding. I am beginning to experience the Eucharist as a “Type”, or “Microcosm”, or example of the whole Gospel of Christ; Caring of each other, Serving each other, Feeding the hungry and thirsty.
And thereby Loving God with all we are!
Being Blessed to be able to start installing two more Labyrinths these past two years has been a great joy - These both are the same pattern as Sherita’s Labyrinth at the hospital in Ashland, except larger (7 circuits), with one notable difference. They both are composed with native materials and are laid out to incorporate the local terrain; I.e. Trees are walked around or between not needlessly cut down . Because of the aspect of honoring nature, we have come to call these “Franciscan” Style Labyrinths. One is being installed in the hills above Ashland near the nine mile marker off Dead Indian Memorial Hwy. The second is on the bluff just above Pearl Cove on Kauai.
May This Blessed Season and The New Year Find You All Well and at Peace!
Love! Bob / Dad / Gmpa / Chaplain Bob
http://praisegodviathespiritofthechrist.blogspot.com/
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