For many, fall days and cooler temperatures are something to look forward to and enjoy.  For others, the shorter days bring seasonal affective disorder, less time spent in nature or added weight to a grieving process.  What does it mean to embrace the darkness and find God’s holiness in it?

 

 

In the last week, I’ve discovered that I am terribly ignorant when it comes to the political realities in the Holy Land.  As I pray for peace, I’ve found these resources helpful:  What is Palestine-Israel: Answers to Common Questions by Sonia Weaver (published by Herald Press and commissioned by Mennonite Central Committee) and the Mennonite Church USA Seeking Peace in Israel and Palestine resolution passed by delegates in 2017.

 

 

It’s the time of year when churches start planning worship for the Advent/Christmas season as well as Christmas programs of all kinds.  As we plan for how to make this season of waiting spiritually meaningful, our family found The Advent Experience Box from The Parent Cue; we can’t wait to try it out.

 

 

When I’m not working at Anabaptist World, I am a librarian for our area conference of MC USA.  Recently my first grader and I read a children’s book, originally published in the 1950s.  It was a delightful story of a bygone area with very amusing events.  I noticed that the last person to check out the book was the late wife of a dear friend.  She checked it out 22 years ago, meaning she read it to/with her children when they were young.  I mentioned this to my friend and he read it too.  Now we have three generations who have enjoyed the Ridgeway family’s adventures in Midwest City.  It’s wonderful  how a good book can build community across generations: with those who have gone on to their heavenly home and with those around us right now.  So if you read something good — share about it!  And be sure to check out the November 24 issue of Anabaptist World for our annual books issue.