Prayer Requests

[NathanATX]

Hello my friends...

Please use this thread to post your prayer requests. I believe one of the most powerful and beautiful ways we can express our faith is by asking God for direction, comfort, healing, etc.

Christian, Buddhist, Jewish, Muslim, etc..., just share what's on your heart and we will hold you in our thoughts & prayers.

peace,

Nate

[NathanATX]

I have some unspoken requests for some of the people in our young adult ministry.

And keep me in prayer as I prepare for school and this new season in my life.

[Zerbie]

Thanks Nate,

and actually, let's add prayers for my community which, for reasons I cannot go into publicly, needs them right now as well.

Thanks everyone. :love: :pray:

[BenL]

Please pray for our children and their relationships with us.

Ben & Charley

[NathanATX]

The young adults in question are going to be ok. :)

Plus, we had some a lot of new young adults come to church today... FUEL is going to get huge this year! :)

Pray that I am have clarity, discernment, integrity & responsibility this year. I'm up to some big things and I need to be really, really great to make all this happen.

PS: I'm very, very thankful for such an amazing boyfriend.

[ctozrn]

Hello everyone,

This was such a good idea!

I would like to ask for prayer for my two children. Caleb 15, Carsyn, 13. They are going through all the angst of being a teenager. I pray that they have good friends that surround them. I also lift them up to God to keep them safe in this time of their life.

Also prayers for their mom that I too survive being the mom of two teenagers!

[NathanATX]

Hello everyone,

This was such a good idea!

I would like to ask for prayer for my two children. Caleb 15, Carsyn, 13. They are going through all the angst of being a teenager. I pray that they have good friends that surround them. I also lift them up to God to keep them safe in this time of their life.

Also prayers for their mom that I too survive being the mom of two teenagers!

Praying for you all. :)

[BenL]

Need prayers for help in discerning the path God wants me to follow. Sometimes it's pretty clear. For the past week or so, the way has been very murky. I'm feeling very dis-empowered because of it.

Thanks.
BenL

[Lydia]

I'm praying for everyone.

My prayer request is rather practical: I need a job. I have been sending out my resume and getting some replies, I just need a nudge over into employment land. :)

[Zerbie]

Hey, I have a personal request from my friends here.

For those of you keeping this board in mind during prayers, I could use a boost today. :( Had a bad "stomach flu" last week and could not eat for many days during which I lost 7 pounds, and am still 5 pounds down (this is NOT a good thing). I cancelled everything this afternoon and evening to sit around at home, but I'm just being depressed and angry with myself for cancelling (my body is not up to the strenuousness of the work planned for tonight.) :o

It's minor, I know, but it's important to me that I be able to fully participate in the things coming up. Please send some prayers that my health and energy pick up. :(

[Lydia]

Of course I'll pray for you. Feel better soon. :love:

[suzer1013]

I've read and will pray for everyone's requests.

A couple personal notes: Lydia -- I know the stress of finding a job - I hope and pray that will go well for you. And Zerbie -- feel better soon, friend! And, good Lord, woman -- I'll send you a few pounds if you need 'em -- I've got plenty extra (oy!). ;)

I have one request. My partner suffers from chronic pain (of unknown origin). She's been having a pretty bad flare up. We went to the doctor yesterday, but no answers yet. It has been a hard road, and puts stress on us both. I hate to see her suffering so, especially when there's nothing I can do about it to make her feel better. All the love in the world can't make pain go away -- it breaks my heart to see her go through this. At 4 a.m. this morning I was on the way to the 24 hour pharmacy to fill her pain meds prescription -- it had gotten that bad -- and I just said "Please God, help." It's the only prayer I can think of for this situation right now. Thanks, y'all. :love:

Susan

[Zerbie]

. And Zerbie -- feel better soon, friend! And, good Lord, woman -- I'll send you a few pounds if you need 'em -- I've got plenty extra (oy!). ;)

Susan

Pounds gladly accepted!!! Please!!! I know that's why I'm so exhausted - I think a 7 pound loss means about a 24,000 calorie deficit? My stomach shrank I guess - I get full from a couple sips of juice.

I so feel for your partner. Chronic pain is the worst thing ever! I had muscle pain really badly for 11 years. No one could trace a cause for the longest time - finally discovered the cause years later, once the pain had basically vanished. I have no idea what your partner's health situation is, but if she can handle yoga, it's worth a try. Yoga sometimes causes "miraculous" healing of long-lasting pain and injury.

[ctozrn]

Hey Suzer,

I read your post about your partner. Do you have a chronic pain clinic in your area? I am a hospice nurse so I know how debilitating pain can be. Pain is now a specialty in medicine. Many docs have no idea how to deal with chronic pain. They are often turning to Dr's that specialize in pain. If you haven't already, it may be worth a try. In the meantime I will send you some prayers and good thoughts from N.C. to GA!

Christine

[suzer1013]

Thank you, Zerbie and Christine -- the thoughts and prayers are much appreciated. To answer your questions -- she has tried yoga in the past, and it did help, so she's looking around to find somewhere to do yoga again. There's quite a bit to choose from in the area, and I may even try to do it with her -- it would probably do us both some good! It's hard to even get out of the house when she's in so much pain, though.

She is seeing a rheumatologist who has a specialty in pain relief, but we are also trying to get a referral to a pain specialist I happen to know of through my job. We're trying -- it's hard when the cause is so difficult to pin down.

Thank you both, and many blessings to you! Gotta run, someone's at the door.

Susan :love: :pray:

[BenL]

The All Saints Church Alliance and the Kairos Spiritual Center (both in Worcester MA) is holding a "Day of Reflection and Conversation for GLBT Christians" on Saturday, Feb. 24.

Charley and I are telling our faith stories to kick off the afternoon program.

Please pray for us and for the other participants.

Thanks.

BenL

P.S. There are still spots open. If anyone is interested in participating, PM me for details.

[Lydia]

I'm praying for you, BenL

[NathanATX]

The All Saints Church Alliance and the Kairos Spiritual Center (both in Worcester MA) is holding a "Day of Reflection and Conversation for GLBT Christians" on Saturday, Feb. 24.

Charley and I are telling our faith stories to kick off the afternoon program.

Please pray for us and for the other participants.

Thanks.

BenL

P.S. There are still spots open. If anyone is interested in participating, PM me for details.

I said a prayer for you on Saturday. How did it go?
Nate

[BenL]

Thanks, Nate and Lydia, for the prayers ... and to others who prayed anonymously.

The "Day of Reflection and Conversation" was a blessing for those of us who participated. Thirty people attended. Eight of us were from the sponsoring groups. The others came from all over the region, some as many as three hours away.

There were gay men, lesbians, bisexual men and women, one intersexed person and five trans people in attendance. We were all so comfortable with one another right from the beginning. The Rev. Ann B. Day of the UCC keynoted the day with her usual dry sense of humor and encouraging words on the progress LGBT folks have made in the last 20 years. Her talk included her experiences as an out, partnered, lesbian pastor. We broke into small groups and invited people to tell their stories. We grew so much as we listened to each other and honored each person's story.

Charley, my FTM spouse, and I told our faith stories in the plenary session after lunch. I was nervous, because I have never outted myself so publicly before, but we were met with so much love and affirmation. I've been on Cloud 9 ever since. All in all it was an awesome and awe-inspiring experience.

Thanks for asking.

BenL

[NathanATX]

I have been trying to get rid of a nasty cold that has attached itself to me since Tuesday. My nose is red/hurts, I can't breathe well, I can't sleep, yuckkkk. I'm supposed to sing tomorrow night, but not without a miracle.
Nate

[Zerbie]

I have been trying to get rid of a nasty cold that has attached itself to me since Tuesday. My nose is red/hurts, I can't breathe well, I can't sleep, yuckkkk. I'm supposed to sing tomorrow night, but not without a miracle.
Nate

Oh honey I've so been there!!!! :love: :love: :love: (I once sang an opera on acute laryngitis - talk about misery!)

Okay. Zerbie the medically-unqualified meddling soprano recommends: sleep (take whatever cold medicine will allow you to breathe enough to sleep (Afrin nasal spray is good for opening clogged nostrils) or take a cold med that knocks you out), water water water, steam steam steam. Irrigate your nose (try Ocean saline nasal spray. I just pour it in one nostril and let it roll out the other, then blow.) Oh and when I say 'water,' I mean drink a gallon a day.

Oh and over the counter Mucinex (it's pure guafenisen) - it's an expectorant. It thins the mucus so it doesn't clump up in your nose and over your larynx. 3 Mucinex tablets (600 mg guafenisen each) and a gallon of water, plus sleep and steam, and you will be able to sing.

What, you want prayers too? Okay. Ya got it. :love:
:pray:

[Rick336]

I have been trying to get rid of a nasty cold that has attached itself to me since Tuesday. My nose is red/hurts, I can't breathe well, I can't sleep, yuckkkk. I'm supposed to sing tomorrow night, but not without a miracle.
Nate

For colds I use Zicam nasal spray. IT WORKS!!! At the very first sign of a cold I begin using Zicam and it kills the cold. I used to get a bad cold at least two times a year. Since I started using Zicam I haven't had a cold in five years.

I know this probably sounds like a commercial but seriously, if you get Zicam and follow the directions, you will get rid of your cold. But it works best if you catch the cold in it's very early stages.

Rick

[RevVW]

Hi Everyone,

I've been reading through the prayer requests, and my heart has been touched.

I would simply like for like minded people to remember me in prayer every now and then. Life can be a struggle, but all in all I handle things well. Pray that I will be able to keep my heart and mind focused on what God would want, and that I will remember it isn't all about me.

I know this is a bit vague :). Maybe I can fill in the blanks later.

Thanks, Vern

[Zerbie]

I would simply like for like minded people to remember me in prayer every now and then. Life can be a struggle, but all in all I handle things well. Pray that I will be able to keep my heart and mind focused on what God would want, and that I will remember it isn't all about me.

I know this is a bit vague :). Maybe I can fill in the blanks later.

Thanks, Vern

Will do.
:pray:

You don't have to fill in any blanks, ya know. We'll be praying for God's best for you, your life and your community.:love:

[RevVW]

Thanks Zerbie, I feel like I know you. I won't hide anymore.

Vern

[andrewlittle]

Vern, What she said. You're in mine, too.

[Lydia]

I'm praying for you as well, Vern. Let us know if there's anything else we can do. :)

[RevVW]

I just wanted to let all of you know how wonderful my Sunday was. I conduct two services Sunday am, one at 9 one at 10:30. As I left quite early to make it to the first service, I watched the mist in the valleys (I live the foothills of the Ozark Mtns), saw the daffodils starting to open, and thought, "they've been praying for/with me." It made for a wonderful albeit, rather busy day. I'm still smiling :)

Vern

[ctozrn]

That is so neat! It is amazing how the littlest hints such as daffodils can make us feel close to God.

What a gift that it enabled you to have such a happy day!

I will have to keep a look out for those spring daffodils!

Christine

[Zerbie]

I just wanted to let all of you know how wonderful my Sunday was. I conduct two services Sunday am, one at 9 one at 10:30. As I left quite early to make it to the first service, I watched the mist in the valleys (I live the foothills of the Ozark Mtns), saw the daffodils starting to open, and thought, "they've been praying for/with me." It made for a wonderful albeit, rather busy day. I'm still smiling :)

Vern

:) That's great!

I spent a summer in the Ozarks a few years ago, just outside of Eureka Springs, maybe an hour or two from Fayetteville, I don't recall the distance, just lots of greenery everywhere you look, and of course, rolling hills. And that big white statue. :D We went swimming in Beaver Lake.

I like daffodils. Miss flowers like those - here, sigh, the warm weather has begun - which means 5% humidity, sunburn, and a lot of dust. I feel like a raisin. But on the floral side, we DO have beautiful, extremely fragrant citrus blossoms starting now. And the winter crop of citrus has to get picked, so lots of fresh grapefruit juice and lemonade.

But this thread is about prayers. Now that my life has calmed down some I am back to my usual sunrise prayer practice. It's so peaceful. I light tea candles along the windowsill. :dove:

It feels good to think of everyone on this website throughout the day. Sometimes, when I'm cranky, I'll remember how many friends I really have and it makes a difference. :D

Vern we're glad you're here. :love:

[Lydia]

Very cool, Vern.

I'll be attending a job fair tomorrow, and I'd appreciate it if y'all kept me in your prayers between now and then. I'm a little nervous about it. :)

[Zerbie]

Very cool, Vern.

I'll be attending a job fair tomorrow, and I'd appreciate it if y'all kept me in your prayers between now and then. I'm a little nervous about it. :)

Ooh, good stuff! Hold out for the best opportunity Lydia. Best of luck!
:pray:

[RevVW]

That's great Lydia, you will be in my thoughts and prayers. I'm believing for only the best for you. Vern

[RevVW]

Hey, just wanted all to know, I've got two parishioners who are very ill, a 70 year old man with inoperable cancer, and a lovely lady with COPD. Just a thought or two, I know with that, we can have the perfect plan of the One who holds us all in Her/His hands.

And, Zerbie, I'm glad to be here, just don't know what took me so long.

Vern

[Zerbie]

And, Zerbie, I'm glad to be here, just don't know what took me so long.

Vern

Well all that matters is you're here *now.* Glad ya finally jumped in - as they say "the water's warm," :p :) :love:

Our thoughts and prayers will be with your two parishioners as well.

[andrewlittle]

...unquestionably gentle spirits with us, I think. And he found one of the other truly gentle spirits on the boards - Zerbie.
Hey, just wanted all to know, I've got two parishioners who are very ill, a 70 year old man with inoperable cancer, and a lovely lady with COPD. Just a thought or two, I know with that, we can have the perfect plan of the One who holds us all in Her/His hands.

And, Zerbie, I'm glad to be here, just don't know what took me so long.

Vern

We will, indeed, keep your parishioners in our prayers, as well as you, my new friend.

May God bless you and surround your parishioners with love and the assurance of God's limitless grace.

Andy

[Lydia]

Thanks for the prayers, Zerbie and Vern (and anyone else who prayed). The job fair went well. It was pretty small as job fairs go, but I did make one good contact.

I was nervous about it this morning, but once I arrived the butterflies in my stomach stopped and I think I did a fairly decent job of "selling" myself.

[Lydia]

Hey, just wanted all to know, I've got two parishioners who are very ill, a 70 year old man with inoperable cancer, and a lovely lady with COPD. Just a thought or two, I know with that, we can have the perfect plan of the One who holds us all in Her/His hands.


I'm praying for them and their loved ones.

[andrewlittle]

Right now I'm struggling to overcome an onset of depression - the bane of my existence. I would appreciate your prayers.

Thanks,
Andy

[RevVW]

Andy, Thanks for the kind words. And I will be praying for you. Depression-what is it about us? I too suffer with this bane, as you called it. I have found a lot of sensitive souls battle with depression. The good thing being, we recognize it and at least try to do something about it, if nothing else, just tell someone.

Thanks to all for your prayers, and, you are in mine.

Vern

[Zerbie]

Andy darlin',

I will indeed keep you in thoughts and prayers. As all of my SF friends are. :love: :pray:

Dave's advice is sage. Do as he says. :agree:

I think I have an idea what you guys may be dealing with as I get sudden massive clouds of sorrow, sadness, despair that land on me often, without warning and not-infrequently without discernible cause. Just had one last night. It's part of a nasty PTSD that I have struggled and battled with for many years. My hope is to get rid of it completely and re-wire my brain as if it had never had PTSD, but in the meanwhile, the best I can do is continually improve coping skills.

If anyone wishes to pray that I will acquire a healthier brain - have at it!:)
Thanks. ;)

[Zerbie]

Hello all,

For those of you who may have missed Daniel's post on the "hello my name is" forum, he is dealing with an ear problem that started suddenly about a week ago.

Please keep Daniel in your prayers.

Thank you.

[Lydia]

I'm praying for you, Andy. I've struggled with depression in the past myself.

[Lydia]

I'm praying for you as well, Zerbie. While I don't know what it's like to struggle with PTSD I do have some personal experience with other challenges.

Daniel, I hope your ear(s?) feel better soon.

[NathanATX]

Robert & I are doing great. We hope to move soon to a better neighborhood. Please pray for our contiued growth, synergy, and intimacy as couple.

I'm doing well in school, but the semester is heating up.

I'm going to be participating in several conferences, speaking about trans issues and then about sexuality & faith.

I'm working on my first book... pray for dedication and creative energy.

Keep our young adult ministry in prayer, we're working on making some good changes.

Our church's interim pastor starts with us on Easter weekend.

I should be ready to work aggressively in my business by May. Pray for success and a positive attitude!

******

I pray for you all continually.

Peace,
Nate

[tdogg]

My prayers are being sent up for you all. :pray:

Here are some hugs for you too {{{{:love: :love: :love: }}}}

[RevVW]

Hey All,

Just to let you know you've been with me all weekend. Yesterday was another wonderful day. We've been doing a series of Lenten services in our district, Ash Weds. to Maunday Thurs. All of the churches in our district meet together on Sunday eves. for services at different churches in the district. Last night was my turn at one of my churches, what a wonderful experience! Thank you so much for your prayers. The only time I really feel whole is that one hour (or two or three, as in this Sunday) when I'm standing in that pulpit sharing the love of our Heavenly Mother/Father God. And I know I've only been sharing on this forum for a short while, but I've been "looking" for a year, and just knowing you are here has been such a strength, thank you. I'm praying for you all, and thank you for remembering me.

[tpdncr4christ]

this morning, about 3 am. pray for her please...

[NathanATX]

this morning, about 3 am. pray for her please...

Praying for your grandmother.

[Lydia]

How are you doing, Zerbie?

I'm praying for your grandmother, tpdncr4christ. It's scary to see loved ones ill, eh?

[Lydia]

Yesterday was another wonderful day.

How cool. :)

[Zerbie]

All Soulforce friends and families are in my daily prayers. Vern, glad to hear you smiling broadly. :D :)

Thanks Lydia, I'm doin' awright. The usual stuff, but hafta say I feel I'm dealing with it all better than ever.

Yesterday I got my hair colored bright coppery red, and am feeling very vivacious! :p ;)

[BruceChris]

With that new hair, you may suddenly find your self being pursued by males, AND females with inclinations and proclivities that simply cannot be talked about in polite company! (But then again, do be sure and send me a photo.)

Prayers for all

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

[Zerbie]

With that new hair, you may suddenly find your self being pursued by males, AND females with inclinations and proclivities that simply cannot be talked about in polite company! (But then again, do be sure and send me a photo.)

Prayers for all

Peace and Love, Bruce Chris

And that would differ from the rest of my usual life, precisely how?
;) ;) ;)

:lol:

From flirty golden blonde to vivacious redhead. This is FUN! :lol: :p

[BenL]

Please keep my spouse Charley in your prayers. There are some heart concerns. We see the cardiologist today. I'm very nervous.

[Lydia]

I'm praying, Ben.

[Zerbie]

Please keep my spouse Charley in your prayers. There are some heart concerns. We see the cardiologist today. I'm very nervous.

Oh how scary!!!!

Praying for good news. :pray:

[u-dog]

I'm praying for Charlie today.

[BenL]

The appointment went well. There are some worrisome anomalies, but the cardiologist agreed to treat them with medication for a period of time before resorting to more invasive interventions. That's a relief. Hospital stays for trans people can be a very scary experience we hope to avoid. There is still much education that needs to happen in the medical field about respect for persons whose gender expression may not match their physical bodies.

[Zerbie]

Courage and love to Ben and Charley.

Medical science has come a long way in recent decades. I've got a family member with some "anomalies" in cardiac health, for nearly a decade, which are managed smoothly with medication. No change in lifestyle whatsoever, totally as active as ever. The only difference is popping a pill every day. I pray that Charley has a smooth time managing his condition as well.

:pray:

[RevVW]

I've been out of town since Monday. Just logged on, I too, will be praying for your Grandmother.

BenL, the two of you will be in my prayers also. Vern

[RevVW]

Hey Zerbie,

I can just see that red hair! I love it. Thanks for the prayers. Vern

[RevVW]

Lydia,

How is the job search coming? I'm still praying about that for you. Remember, only the best! Vern

[Lydia]

Still plodding on.

I've attended a few job fairs and am still sending out resumes and cover letters. I am getting some good responses, most of them are just located too far away from the subway for me to do it. Toronto is a pretty safe place to live, but like every large city there are some neighborhoods in which I as a woman would not be comfortable walking through alone after dark.

And it's all complicated by my husband's health - he's been depressed lately.

But I plod on. :)

[Zerbie]

Oh no! It's really hard when a partner is depressed, it can affect you too. Keep taking good care of yourself like you're doing, and know you have a ton of support. We're cheering you on with the job search. Go Lydia!! :)

[andrewlittle]

As many of you may know, my wife is a UMC minister. She is, in fact, a “probationary elder”, which means that she is in the three year (minimum) period of commissioning before full ordination. Her Board on Ministry has approved he for ordination in June, after the minimum three years.

She has been positioned in 3 churches in 3 years. The first was not actually a church – it was a parish of 5 churches served by one minister – a parish in which the two smallest “family” churches rode rough shod over the silent majority in the others, and in which the former minister, who was enabler, retired and moved across the street. My wife’s conference wanted her skills present there (like me, she’s a gender-bender, and she’s very gifted in “masculine” traits) and she accomplished what they desired. She was also vilified by some of the authorities who do not want to see change, but would rather have change happen (???) while doing the same, comfortable things.

Her next was a sick church – counting among its body count, three ministers who have left ministry as a result of their stints there – one by eventual suicide. They wanted to know what was really going on. She found out and exposed it. In the process she was vilified yet again, and threatened multiple times. The bulk of the bishop’s cabinet supported her throughout, and voiced their intention to withdraw participation in the union church (2 denominations in one). After her job was done, they moved her again.

We have been in a new home since November. Between the time of the move and now, the leadership of the bishop’s cabinet has been revamped, with all the change agents replaced with those who think the best way to deal with problem churches is to appease them. My wife is no appeaser and, as such, she was recently visited by her District Superintendent and told that the small number of parishioners who are resisting any change have stated they don’t want my wife as the minister. Never mind the overwhelming majority that do, this small group has the money and power.

So Jenna has been told that, unless she ceases fighting for change and just “keeps everyone happy”, she will be replaced and will not be reappointed or ordained. She is being blackmailed into keeping the status quo. It has come up in conversations with some of the local church leaders, that this same D.S. met with the church council privately and told them he suspects my wife's sexuality, accused her of abandoning her children (which are now with their father under court-decreed shared parenting rules),and of abusing the other two churches she was in. She has been, in my mind, been set up because she does not represent the “vision” of the conference that now seems to worship money and peace over honesty and change – the very change she was requested to make.

My wife is heart-broken on one hand, and resolute on the other that she will not acquiesce to a sick system. She is also very concerned because, until I find a job in an area where church and other jobs are in short supply, she is the “bread-winner.” She is conflicted. She is also conflicted about staying in a system in which another female minister she knew, who was also gifted with “masculine” traits committed suicide as a result of innuendos spread by her new D.S. and picked up by her church. Another woman minister, who is also a straight GLBT advocate, is currently also being vilified by some in her church and threatened by her D.S. The pressure is on in Iowa.

We need prayers. I support my wife in whatever decision she makes – actually that may not be true – if she stays and accedes to this abuse, I will be sorely disappointed. I am encouraging her to leave, as she is encouraging me to broaden my search for a job. The larger questions are almost overwhelming. To where would we go? If I got a job, what would she do? What are the prospects for us? We are both disillusioned with the church as it is, and both very passionate about changing that. But how? And where? And how do we survive in the meantime?

Please pray for both of us, and for my wife in particular, as we wrestle with visions of being in ministry, and the idealism that we share. Together, at the moment, we just seem to hold each other and weep. That’s good for now, but we needs God’s direction to be made clear.

Thanks for reading this, BTW.

[kara speltz]

The larger questions are almost overwhelming. To where would we go? If I got a job, what would she do? What are the prospects for us? We are both disillusioned with the church as it is, and both very passionate about changing that. But how? And where? And how do we survive in the meantime?

Please pray for both of us, and for my wife in particular, as we wrestle with visions of being in ministry, and the idealism that we share. Together, at the moment, we just seem to hold each other and weep. That’s good for now, but we needs God’s direction to be made clear.

Oh, Andrew, what a scary place to be in. And what an amazing couple you and Jenna are. I will put you both into my prayer circle. I highly recommend you find some of Dorothy Day's writings, perhaps her biography, "The Long Loneliness." Dorothy was the founder, along with Peter Maurin, of the Catholic Worker newspaper and movement. There's a movie out concerning her life called, "Entertaining Angels."

She had the most amazing trust in God that if what she was doing was God's work, God would always provide. And provide S/He did, on a daily basis. Stories abound of days upon days of bills coming in, and just "enough" money coming in that day. Today some 300 houses, all over the world, try to follow her way of life. Having run a Catholic Worker House, I have personally experienced days when our bills that had to be paid for that day might be $650; and sure enough that's exactly what would come in for the day. It was an amazing experience and has been the foundation of how I live my life since then.

Trust that God will get you through those scary moments. It will often get down to counting pennies, but somehow, with the grace of God, you will get through. This surely will strengthen your faith in the long run, but it's not an easy path.

Thank you for sharing this with us and know how deeply I, personally appreciate all that you share on this forum.

Kara

[Zerbie]

Oh Andrew! :pray:

What a situation!! I don't know what to say, so I'll share a personal experience.

Years ago, my mom was made administrator of a nursing home. The owners continally pressured her to do things that would protect/increase their profits by abusing the elderly residents (taking advantage of them in various ways amounting to all kinds of abuse, while lying to the families who were paying to keep their relatives there.) When my mom continually refused to give in, the owners fired her. Hmm, come to think of it, that's the one memory I have where my mom wasn't afraid of "authority" pressure, and stood up to it. Good for her. :)
My dad had already been laid off before that point, and unemployed over a year. When my mom got fired, I was 17, in high school, and for 6 months or so, the only one of us earning any income, from my $4.25/hour job ringing a cash register.

We got by. When my mom worried about finances, dad would say "It's only money. ;) "

Andy, I'm betting with integrity like yours, the two of you are going to be "found" by a parish that is REALLY striving to live up to its ideals, and once there you will find yourselves very wanted and appreciated.

Meanwhile, let everyone you know know that you two are available, so that word gets out that there are two wonderful qualified people ready to be snapped up by some lucky organization.

May the very best come to you and yours. :pray: :pray: :pray:
:love: :love: :love:

[u-dog]

...between going on a rant about how stupid and fake the institutional church can be and being pastoral and caring about you.

Hmmm.... O screw your feelings! The church today sucks! ... oh.. sorry.

seriously:

Much of the church is dysfunctional. Much of it is SO dysfunctional that it is no longer, in fact, the church. Its just a bunch of rabid puppies at prayer. Those of us in professional ministry give our hearts, our souls, our energy to the service of God and to the people in the church and when they bite our hand like a rabid dog... it hurts. We feel betrayed and discouraged. When their "bite" crosses the line from vicious to evil (as in the case of Jenna's DS) and people start whispering hurtful lies in order to intentionally destroy us... it is truly devastating.

However, when conflict reaches this level and their is no one with the health and the authority to intervene and insist on some process of healing there is nothing to be done. Her congregational system is sick but the larger denominational system is ALSO sick and Jenna doesn't have the power to address that larger institutional sickness in any meaningful way. Jenna will either need to pretend to acquiesce until she is ordained and attains a level of power in the system that allows her to withstand the storm or she needs to escape the system somehow. Not an easy choice to make, but was it ever, really Jenna's call to serve inside a sick system that is not and probably has not been for a very long time -- the Church of Jesus Christ? I'm thinking probably not. As scary as the prospect is, she probably needs to hang on until you are employed and then bail out and seek ordination in another District or Conference or in another denomination. You probably need to search for a call nationally and to hell with Iowa.

In any case, I didn't mean to start dispensing free advice (its probably worth exactly what you paid for it) You are in my prayers you old Fart. neither you nor Jenna deserve this. Its just what happens to prophets ... always has ... always will. At least they haven't tried to throw you off the cliff yet. :love: :pray: :love: :pray: :love:

[BruceChris]

They've got you by the shorthairs, until you get there, but once you get there, you've got to REALLY screw up, before they will do anything.

You probably remember the cartoon, showing a very large room, entirely filled with empty chairs? And the sign over the door said, "Adult Children of Functional Families" :confused: :eek: :lol: :lol: :lol:

P&L, BC

[RevVW]

Dear Andy,

I'm so sorry to hear of this. As you probably know, it is something I fear may happen one day in my own ministry in the UMC in AR.

All I can say is, I'm so very proud of you both, and I will be praying for you. Stay the course for what it right, and you both know what that is. Yes, we can compromise the truth as we know it, but then what do we have?

Tell Jenna I'm with her all the way, and you both are in my daily prayers.

You know, I think something is going to happen in the "established" church as we know it. Let us not faulter. I'm sorry, that sounds like preaching! But I truly believe it, it is time we were counted among those who stand for the truth.

Another thought, the realization of truth has generally come to we humans at a great price. Are we willing to pay that price?

God, I hope I am.

Sincerely, Vern

[Jan]

Hope it's not too late to add my prayer request.

Please pray for me for healing concerning my recent diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. There's no "quick fix" for this so I'm looking at years of therapy and dedication on my part.

:pray: Philippians 4:13 :pray:

[andrewlittle]

Hope it's not too late to add my prayer request.

Please pray for me for healing concerning my recent diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. There's no "quick fix" for this so I'm looking at years of therapy and dedication on my part.

:pray: Philippians 4:13 :pray:

You are definitely in my prayers, Jan. The years will be worth it. Your life will begin opening up in front of you, and it will be a treasure.

God bless you

[NathanATX]

Hope it's not too late to add my prayer request.

Please pray for me for healing concerning my recent diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. There's no "quick fix" for this so I'm looking at years of therapy and dedication on my part.

:pray: Philippians 4:13 :pray:

Jan, I'm praying for you. Know that this difficulty doesn't mean anything about how wonderful you are or how much God loves you. You're taking the right steps... therapy and medication... and being responsible for your life. I'm very proud of you. I'm praying for your healing and your peace.

Nate

[NathanATX]

Please keep me in prayer. I'm going to be taking a TOUGH accounting test soon.

I also have several "unspoken" prayer requests.

peace,
Nate

[Daniel]

Jan- you are in my prayers and meditations. Please persist in your treatment and therapy. Sometimes all we can do is hang on to each moment as it comes. Hang in there!

Nate- I hear you loud and clear. Never liked tests much myself. Keep in mind that the brain needs 6 hours for short-term memory to make it to long term memory- from the front of the brain (short term) to the back (long term). This means that the last thing you focus on before you go to bed will in long term memory when you wake up. ;) This is how I memorize music. I wake up with it in my head. Seriously. It works.

Andy and Jenna- Love to you both. May be wings of Angels lift you both towards all that you are here to do and be.

Ben and Charlie- praying that the meds work well.

Lydia- Toronto is such a wonderful city. An alternative treatment for depression can be found at the Listening Centre on Markham St. It's good stuff. Changed my life and career.

Did I miss anybody? Hey. You're all getting blessed!

[RevVW]

Andy, Kara, I noticed you are both online right now. I don't have much time, came home from the hospital to feed the animals, I'm going right back. Wanted to let the group know, my daughter was hospitalized this morning after collapsing at work, they did many tests, the final one being a cat skan, it revealed she has pulmonary embolisms in both lungs. My wife just called from the hospital, appears our daughter has developed an extreme headache, so they are, as I'm writing this doing a brain scan. Please pray, Vern

[andrewlittle]

We will keep her in our prayers. And you and your wife.

[tdogg]

So much in a short time! My prayers and heart are with you all. :love: :pray:

Austin, I'm truly praying for your grandmother. You just need to get through the next few days and your faith will help you through that. She is so blessed to have a wonderful grandson (that's you!). My father had a stroke in 1992 - I can pass along some experiences and thoughts if you like. You can always PM me. Otherwise, just be there for her and be strong.

Ben & Charley - my prayers are also going up for you both. For healing, understanding (of others for you both) and dealing with all the emotions that go along with this.

Andy, my prayers are going up for you and Jenna. what a difficult situation you are both in. I totally get the internal conflict and the desire to hold out for what is right. I'm just praying for God to bless you both in any decision. This is another example of why we need actions like the ER, change is not an option, it's a dire necessity so things like this don't happen. Be there for each other, and if I can think of any ideas I will pass them on. For now, my heart goes out to you and prayers up for you.

Jan, definitely send some prayers up for you as well. It's not easy to live with a personality disorder (borderline or not). But you seem like a strong woman and knowing the need for help and initiating action to get it is so the right start. I really feel like you are going to be in such a great place in your life soon. Please continue to share with us and know that we are all here for you.

Nate, I will send a prayer up for clarity of mind and a successful test experience. Accounting is truly difficult! I remember taking hours to do my homework and on occasion crying because it was so complex! Just remember to give yourself a few moments prior to beginning the test, to clear your mind, and take some deep breaths - getting the bad air out and the good air in. Lots of good oxygen to get those brain cells on overtime! You can do it! Oh, and I'll send some for your unspoken requests as well...

Vern, prayers for you, your wife and your daughter are on their way. Please keep us posted on how your daughter is doing. Sounds so serious and scary, but so wonderful that the two of you can be there for her together.

Lydia, good luck and prayers also for you in the job hunt. Wish I had ideas for you, but living in California, I don't know where to begin to help you in Canada. Seems like you have an excellent head on your shoulders so I can't imagine some company won't scoop you up soon!!

Daniel - yes, still praying for your crickets to dispense!

Prayers going up for all of you!!! blessings! :love: :pray: :pray: :pray: :love:

[tdogg]

Zerbie of the red hair!

Cool! I have red hair now and then, one of my funnest was bright copper hair with blond highlights - best of both worlds. Bet you are an awesome redhead! U go girl!

[kara speltz]

Andy, Kara, I noticed you are both online right now. I don't have much time, came home from the hospital to feed the animals, I'm going right back. Wanted to let the group know, my daughter was hospitalized this morning after collapsing at work, they did many tests, the final one being a cat skan, it revealed she has pulmonary embolisms in both lungs. My wife just called from the hospital, appears our daughter has developed an extreme headache, so they are, as I'm writing this doing a brain scan. Please pray, Vern

Dear Vern: Just found this note. Be assured of my prayers. Could you privately email me her first name and I'll add her by name to my prayer circle, until then, I'll simply pray for her as Vern's daughter. I know this is really scary. So be sure to say some prayers for your own tranquility and serenity to trust that God is with you. Kara

[Lydia]

Thanks, everyone :)

Andrew - as a Preacher's Kid, I know quite a bit about what your family is going through. I'll be praying for y'all. Feel free to PM me if you need a sounding board.

I'm praying for you, Jan. I once dated someone who was Borderline. I'm very proud of you for being strong enough to seek help.

How was your test, Nathan? I prayed for you.

Daniel, I'll pass that suggestion on to my husband. Thanks.

[Zerbie]

Andy, Kara, I noticed you are both online right now. I don't have much time, came home from the hospital to feed the animals, I'm going right back. Wanted to let the group know, my daughter was hospitalized this morning after collapsing at work, they did many tests, the final one being a cat skan, it revealed she has pulmonary embolisms in both lungs. My wife just called from the hospital, appears our daughter has developed an extreme headache, so they are, as I'm writing this doing a brain scan. Please pray, Vern

:'(

Vern, we are praying. :love: :pray:

[Jan]

I wanted to give a postive testimony; Since asking for prayer on this thread I have felt the strength in my daily life. I am passed the mourning of my past relationship with my partner and able to focus on the healing that is ahead of me. Healing that comes from years of childhood trauma (via my therapist).

Guys I don't want to sound like a broken record here. It seems that when I do post it's mostly of self absorbed issues. Please know that I pray for all of you as well!

I think by praying for each other on a daily basis will only add peace and understanding to our lives.

Bless you every one! :pray:

Love,
Jan

[Zerbie]

I wanted to give a postive testimony; Since asking for prayer on this thread I have felt the strength in my daily life. Love,
Jan

ME TOO!!!!! :D


The past couple/few weeks my energy has soared, and I've been doing so much better on all levels. I was asking myself what's changed the past couple weeks, and this is one of about 2 things I can think of. I think this is a powerfully positive group, generating some really good energy. (Ie, I strongly suspect the group prayers are working.)

[RevVW]

Dear Ones,

Our hearts are a bit raw, but all of yours are working. Our daughter, Nicole, has been diagnosed with a D.V.T., deep vein thrumbosis. No idea how this occured, but they are treating her with a high powered blood thinner they are calling a "clot buster", I believe it is Heprin. The C.T. on her head came back clear. So...it appears at this point, all she is dealing with is this clot in her leg and the thrumbosis in her lungs. The Dr's said part of this clot broke off and exploded into her lungs, we are just so grateful it did not go to her brain or her heart. They are keeping her in ICU until they are sure the clot is being assimilated into her system. Her Dr. told us tonight that we are not out of the woods yet, but that he feels much better about her prognosis.

Words are not sufficient to say thank you, but, thank you.

You all continue to be in our thoughts and prayers,

We are off to bed, exhausted.

Vern

[Zerbie]

Good night Vern,

Glad to hear of the relatively good news. Interesting. A few years ago my roommate had a blood clot come out of nowhere - he was 25 and a runner, in otherwise perfect health. Strange stuff. Yes, that can be quite dangerous. But with the blood thinner, it should get all taken care of.

Thank you for updating us. Rest well. Our prayers remain with your family. :pray:

[RevVW]

Thanks Zerbie,

This means a great deal to us. Vern

[andrewlittle]

Praise God for good clinicians who found the cause of a difficult to diagnose problem. They must be very good doctors, so she is in good hands.

You, my friend, must be exhausted. If my feelings about you are right, you have spent a great deal more energy worrying about your daughter and caring for your wife than you have caring for yourself. I pray you rest well.

[ctozrn]

Hi Vern,

I am so glad that your daughter is doing better! I am a nurse so I know how dangerous blood clots can be. It is amazing how sometimes they can just appear out of nowhere! It sounds like the docs are doing all the right things. Heparin will do the job along with the other meds! We use it a lot and it works! It sounds as if the worst part is over. Catching it and treating it quickly is key.

I will continue to pray for her and your family,

Christine

[RevVW]

Dear Ones,

We are off to the hospital. We both indeed had a restful night, and woke with such a beautiful calm. Thank you again for your continued prayers. We truly feel your thoughts, your warmth, kindness, and prayers.

I'll try to post tonight when I get in. Big hug, Vern

[tdogg]

Thanks for the update Vern. Glad to hear things are looking up!

Praise God - prayer is such a wonderful and powerful tool and blessing. This news is great, and just the thing I need to propell me out of my chair at home and back to work!

Please continue to keep us posted and Andy is right, take care of yourself too Vern.

Tdogg :pray: :pray: :love: :love: :love: :pray: :pray:

[RevVW]

Late last night, our daughter was moved to a private room. She is still confined to her bed. They will do another C.T. scan Tuesday, at that point they will determine if the blood clots are assimilating into her system as they have been hoping. When we arrived at the hospital this morning (Sat.), she was in a fetal position, not interested in talking...broke our hearts. By this evening, after a bath, given by wonderful care-givers at the hospital, and the arrival of some beautiful flower arrangements, her spirits were up a bit...it was good to see the little gleem in her eye once again.

I've been there so many other times, when it was someone else's daughter, and really thought I knew empathy....honey, ain't no way, 'til you've been there.

Keep praying, our daughter suffers with clinical depression (as do I), and this has been very hard on her, but as I said, this evening she was smiling...in spite of the bed pan!

Tonight, Anne is staying at our daughter and son-in-laws place with the Scottish Deerhounds, so our son-in-law can stay at the hospital with Nicole, so, I'm here with our dogs and 4 parrots. The alone time has given me time to think of the many times I've sat with families really believing I knew what they felt....what an awakening. I've tried to sleep, and I see pictures of my Nicole as a small child, vulnerable, completely dependant on me and her mother, now she is completely dependent on another, our Gracious and Merciful Mother/Father God. We feel completely helpless. I guess that is where our God wants us, completely dependant on God.

Frankly, my dear ones, not a fun lesson to learn.

I've got two services facing me in the morning, and never, never, in almost 30 years of pastoring have I faced a congregation without a thought completely written out in front of me. Tomorrow I will mount those pulpits empty handed, heart in hand.

I'm going to finish a glass of wine, and once again try to go to sleep, trusting in God's mercy.

Thanks again for your prayers, thank you for your support in my living the life my choices have made. Vern

[Lydia]

Typing this with tears in my eyes. And I pray.

[andrewlittle]

Vern, speak from your heart and with room for the Holy Spirit to work through your words. This is the season of dying to the old and resurrecting into the new. I am sure you have amazing thoughts to bring to those concepts.

You are still in my prayers, as is Nicole and Anne, your son-in-law and the deerhounds.

Love, Andy

[kara speltz]

Late last night, our daughter was moved to a private room. She is still confined to her bed. They will do another C.T. scan Tuesday, at that point they will determine if the blood clots are assimilating into her system as they have been hoping. When we arrived at the hospital this morning (Sat.), she was in a fetal position, not interested in talking...broke our hearts. By this evening, after a bath, given by wonderful care-givers at the hospital, and the arrival of some beautiful flower arrangements, her spirits were up a bit...it was good to see the little gleem in her eye once again.

I've been there so many other times, when it was someone else's daughter, and really thought I knew empathy....honey, ain't no way, 'til you've been there.

Keep praying, our daughter suffers with clinical depression (as do I), and this has been very hard on her, but as I said, this evening she was smiling...in spite of the bed pan!

Tonight, Anne is staying at our daughter and son-in-laws place with the Scottish Deerhounds, so our son-in-law can stay at the hospital with Nicole, so, I'm here with our dogs and 4 parrots. The alone time has given me time to think of the many times I've sat with families really believing I knew what they felt....what an awakening. I've tried to sleep, and I see pictures of my Nicole as a small child, vulnerable, completely dependant on me and her mother, now she is completely dependent on another, our Gracious and Merciful Mother/Father God. We feel completely helpless. I guess that is where our God wants us, completely dependant on God.

Frankly, my dear ones, not a fun lesson to learn.

I've got two services facing me in the morning, and never, never, in almost 30 years of pastoring have I faced a congregation without a thought completely written out in front of me. Tomorrow I will mount those pulpits empty handed, heart in hand.

I'm going to finish a glass of wine, and once again try to go to sleep, trusting in God's mercy.

Thanks again for your prayers, thank you for your support in my living the life my choices have made. Vern

Dearest Vern: My heart and prayers go out to you. And I have no doubt that the Spirit will lead you this morning. Your post reminded me of Nouwen's, "The Wounded Healer." If you haven't read it, I highly recommend it. Hang in there my friend. Kara

[Zerbie]

Vern. :love: :love: :love: :love: :love:
:pray:
Was thinking of you and your family strongly last night while praying.

Cannot think of anything else worth typing right now. 'cept one thing:
We love you.
:love: :love: :love:

[u-dog]

Hey Vern! I read your post this morning at 4:30 am as I was preparing for MY palm Sunday Sermon. I sent some prayers your way :pray: as you slept so if you woke up with a sermon already on your lips? That was me. :rolleyes:

So Did the Holy Spirit give you a sermon? Or use your brokeness AS the Sermon? Either way I am sure that your flock was well fed well this morning!

:love:

[RevVW]

Dear Ones,

I'm sitting here with tears of complete gratitude running down my face for all of you, it is 11:12 pm.

I can't say it was an easy day, but it was a day filled with grace. All of you were with me, and, u-dog, yes, the Holy Spirit gave me a sermon, out of my brokeness. Both services were meaningful and completely from the heart of God, I had nothing left to give. By the way, u-dog, I didn't know you are minister too (you must e-mail me privately! Are you married too? Sorry if that is asking for too much!:)

Honestly, I almost didn't go to either service, almost just headed to the hospital knowing that both congregations would understand. Something deep within me said no, so I went. And for the first time ever, I stood in front of my congregations on Palm Sunday, in 501's and a purple shirt and white tennis shoes and shared from the depths of my heart....of brokeness and hope...a hope that is eternal, that outlives all of our pain, all of our sorrows...a hope that is more real, more tangible, than any physical thing we can put our hands on.

Anne and I then went to the hospital to find that Nicole was able to take a shower, was sitting up in bed in the pink PJ's we had bought her, and we saw that same hope in her eyes.

I think I've told all of you that she is going to have another C.T. scan on Tues of this week. Deep in my heart I truly believe all is well.

u-dog, Zerbie, Andy, Kara, Lydia, you will never know the strength your prayers and love have given me (and Anne) through this. You know, the Methodists talk of the "connection" we have as Methodists, they have no idea.

With Love, and complete Gratitude, Vern

[kara speltz]

Dear Ones,

I'm sitting here with tears of complete gratitude running down my face for all of you, it is 11:12 pm.

I can't say it was an easy day, but it was a day filled with grace. All of you were with me, and, u-dog, yes, the Holy Spirit gave me a sermon, out of my brokeness. Both services were meaningful and completely from the heart of God, I had nothing left to give. By the way, u-dog, I didn't know you are minister too (you must e-mail me privately! Are you married too? Sorry if that is asking for too much!:)

Honestly, I almost didn't go to either service, almost just headed to the hospital knowing that both congregations would understand. Something deep within me said no, so I went. And for the first time ever, I stood in front of my congregations on Palm Sunday, in 501's and a purple shirt and white tennis shoes and shared from the depths of my heart....of brokeness and hope...a hope that is eternal, that outlives all of our pain, all of our sorrows...a hope that is more real, more tangible, than any physical thing we can put our hands on.

Anne and I then went to the hospital to find that Nicole was able to take a shower, was sitting up in bed in the pink PJ's we had bought her, and we saw that same hope in her eyes.

I think I've told all of you that she is going to have another C.T. scan on Tues of this week. Deep in my heart I truly believe all is well.

u-dog, Zerbie, Andy, Kara, Lydia, you will never know the strength your prayers and love have given me (and Anne) through this. You know, the Methodists talk of the "connection" we have as Methodists, they have no idea.

With Love, and complete Gratitude, Vern

Dear Vern: Oh what a wonderful testimony to the power of prayer and the Holy Spirit. Your story is exactly what Nouwen wrote about in "The Wounded Healer." It is in sharing our woundedness that the deepest connections are made and the transformations abound. We are all keeping the three of you in our prayers. And again, thanks for sharing your day with us and giving us all new hope.

kara

[Zerbie]

Dear Vern,

What a courageous thing you did showing up and sharing your vulnerable self with your congregation. What a gift for them!!

How wonderful your little girl (doesn't matter does it, even if we're all grown up and married? we're still the little ones) was more alert and feeling better today. I'm glad for your family.

I guess that's what being in the arms of life is like. Scary and completely real. Makes you appreciate how transient things are (and how superficial we make so much of this world to be.)

Love you.
:love: :pray:

[RevVW]

Good night all, thank you for a wonderful close to a difficult but wonderful day. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Vern

[NathanATX]

Praying for your family's peace and rest... and your daughter's continued health.

Peace,
Nate

[Daniel]

You are in my prayers, thoughts and meditations.

:love: :love: :love: :love: :love: :love:

[RevVW]

Wanted to let all know how things are going. The Dr's did an ultra-sound on her legs, and a C.T. on her lungs, neither showed any change. They have increased her dosage of blood thinners, and told us it is a wait and see situation. Frankly, none of us are doing very well.

As the day wore on today, Nicole seemed to brighten quite a bit, and I was grateful to see that.

Thanks for your prayers, we are exhausted.

Vern

[kara speltz]

Wanted to let all know how things are going. The Dr's did an ultra-sound on her legs, and a C.T. on her lungs, neither showed any change. They have increased her dosage of blood thinners, and told us it is a wait and see situation. Frankly, none of us are doing very well.

As the day wore on today, Nicole seemed to brighten quite a bit, and I was grateful to see that.

Thanks for your prayers, we are exhausted.

Vern

Hang in there Vern. Feel the power of people's prayers holding you up.

kara

[andrewlittle]

Vern, I continue to hold Nicole, Anne and you in prayer.

God is with you all, my friend. May the Holy Spirit enfold you in love, Andy.

[BenL]

Charley's symptoms continue unabated despite the drug therapy. He is scheduled for a heart catheterization early tomorrow. Please pray. I find myself numb with worry.

[RevVW]

BenL, We share your corcern, and hold you and Charley in our thoughts and prayers. Vern

[RevVW]

BenL, We share your concern, we will hold you and Charlely in our thoughts and prayers. Vern

[Lydia]

Still praying.

[RevVW]

This morning I chose to sleep in just a little. Poured a cup of coffee and walked down the path to the paper box to collect the morning paper. Walking back up the path I saw that one of our Azalea bushes is now in full bloom, a bright beautiful pink, and absolutely covered in blossoms. I smiled, then realized it was the only one blooming, the others all in bud, not yet opened. Well, you've gotten to know me a bit by now, I started crying, I really feel it was sign of our God's love and concern about and for our daughter. I again feel that peace, that all will be well.

Thanks again for your prayers, and Kara, thank you for reminding me to "feel the power of people's prayers", it works, just gotta remember to do it. Love, Vern

[Zerbie]

Vern and Ben,

Sending much love to both of you and your respective families.

:love: :pray:

[JudB]

to both families

[tdogg]

Vern, wow, your daughter, and you and your family have been through so much the last few days. I will continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. It's good to sometimes have alone-time and sort things out. Please keep the faith, and many blessings (and healing!) to you and yours.

Ben, praying for you and Charley as well. Hope and pray that all goes well with the surgery and recovery, and that it will help Charley get better. God bless you!

[NathanATX]

Please pray for a young person in my church who attempted suicide today.

peace,
Nate

[kara speltz]

Please pray for a young person in my church who attempted suicide today.

peace,
Nate

Holding them in my prayers as well as their family. kara

[u-dog]

Nathan,

Your young friend is in my prayers! make sure that he knows that scads of people who never met him are holding him up all day today and in the days ahead!!

Ben and Vern: :pray: :pray: :pray: :love: :love: :love:

[RevVW]

Good news. Nicole is coming home today, still some issues to deal with, but the Dr's say they can deal with those as an out-patient.

Thank you for your support and prayers through this very trying time.

All of you remain in my prayers.

Vern

[kara speltz]

Good news. Nicole is coming home today, still some issues to deal with, but the Dr's say they can deal with those as an out-patient.

Thank you for your support and prayers through this very trying time.

All of you remain in my prayers.

Vern

Vern, I'm so happy to hear that. What a wonderful way to celebrate Easter - talk about resurrection! kara

[Zerbie]

I'm so glad! Yesterday I was looking at flowers and thinking what you must have been going through, and hoping Nicole would be well and home soon. Home to enjoy the holiday, too. Glad to hear she's so much better. :)

Nathan, our prayers are with your community, and especially that young person. Hugs to you. :love: :pray:

[RevVW]

Spent the day today with our daughter, she is doing well. Not sure when she will be able to go back work. Thanks again, so much, for your prayers.

Vern

[Lydia]

Praying, Nathan.

That's great news, Vern.

[tdogg]

I just found out an hour ago that my dad had a major fall Monday and subsequently had a seizure today and is in the hopsital. They are preparing him for transport to another facility for observation and possible brain surgery. He had a stroke 5 years ago and is pretty much confined to a wheelchair. We aren't sure if he had another stroke and fell and that's causing the bleeding, or if the fall was bad enough to cause a brain hemorrhage.

I'm headed off shortly to the hospital to let me dad know I'm there (if he can possibly know) and to be there with my stepmom. My other sister is on her way too. Please pray for all of us, especially my dad, to get through this time. My dad has some difficulty communicating and understanding what's going on, so he's a little confused and probably scared. My mom is calm now I hear but pretty much a slightly controlled basket case.

It's a scary situation, and add to that I haven't really communicated with my stepmom much in the last year and a half (yes because I came out to her and she's having real difficulty with it) - but the main thing is I'm there with my dad and my mom. All else can wait.

Thanks, I appreciate any prayers you can send up. Of course, we will all be praying fervently as well.

[Lydia]

I'm praying, t-dogg.

And I have a prayer request myself - On Monday I'll be interviewing for a job that I really would like to be offered. It's an administrative assistant/receptionist position in a company that sounds like a really amazing place to work.

Assuming that God wants me to work there, would you pray that it all works out?

[Pablo Rafael]

Vern, Ben, Nate, Tdogg, Lydia,

Just to let you know that even though I haven't said anything to each of you individually I have been keeping you, your loved ones and friends in my prayers. May God give you (them) blessings and healing.

Tu Amigo, Pablo

[dsdrane]

Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve your sick servants, and give your power of healing to those who minister to their needs, that those for whom our prayers are offered may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

[kara speltz]

I just found out an hour ago that my dad had a major fall Monday and subsequently had a seizure today and is in the hopsital. They are preparing him for transport to another facility for observation and possible brain surgery. He had a stroke 5 years ago and is pretty much confined to a wheelchair. We aren't sure if he had another stroke and fell and that's causing the bleeding, or if the fall was bad enough to cause a brain hemorrhage.

I'm headed off shortly to the hospital to let me dad know I'm there (if he can possibly know) and to be there with my stepmom. My other sister is on her way too. Please pray for all of us, especially my dad, to get through this time. My dad has some difficulty communicating and understanding what's going on, so he's a little confused and probably scared. My mom is calm now I hear but pretty much a slightly controlled basket case.

It's a scary situation, and add to that I haven't really communicated with my stepmom much in the last year and a half (yes because I came out to her and she's having real difficulty with it) - but the main thing is I'm there with my dad and my mom. All else can wait.

Thanks, I appreciate any prayers you can send up. Of course, we will all be praying fervently as well.


Keeping your whole family in my prayers. kara

[andrewlittle]

Tdogg, Ben, Nate, Lydia, and Vern - may God continue to give you strength and embrace those you love in tender presence.

Just a quick note, BTW. Vern has been off the boards a couple of days due to a computer malfunction. He is aware of your prayers and love, and actively praying for everyone. He will be back on-line as soon as his computer is fixed.

In the meantime, his daughter is at her home and continues to be under care and watchful, devoted eyes. Vern thanks you with all his heart for your prayers for Nicole, Anne and himself.

[tdogg]

Thanks everyone for send your precious prayers up. I spent the night with my dad, it was pretty rough but he was stable and much more comfortable and coherent by the time I left. My stepmom and sister are there right now, he's having a CT scan to check the bleeding in his brain. He started showing some distress again though. We are taking it pretty much a little at a time. Medication to help stop the bleeding increases risk for another stroke. We are being/feeling positive, but can't help but be a little worried too. I'll be going back to the hospital in a while. :love:

Lydia, good luck on that interview and yes, I'll be praying for God's plan to become evident to you and for the interview to go well (yes, and get the job if it's God's will - although I know it's God's will for you to be happy!). :)

[NathanATX]

Hi everyone..

My mom's friend/boyfriend... who is basically my dad... had a major motorcycle accident. A woman pulled out in front of him, he hit her and flew off his bike for 15+ feet. He's home now, but has m-u-l-t-i-p-l-e broken bones. I'm also worried about the financial impact, insurance and all of that related to the accident.

On a lighter note, my younger brother's baby is due in June... it's a girl! :)

I have some major,major decisions to make... so please keep me in prayer.

Peace,
Nate

[kara speltz]

Hi everyone..

My mom's friend/boyfriend... who is basically my dad... had a major motorcycle accident. A woman pulled out in front of him, he hit her and flew off his bike for 15+ feet. He's home now, but has m-u-l-t-i-p-l-e broken bones. I'm also worried about the financial impact, insurance and all of that related to the accident.

On a lighter note, my younger brother's baby is due in June... it's a girl! :)

I have some major,major decisions to make... so please keep me in prayer.

Peace,
Nate

Dear Nate: Will keep your family in my prayer circle. kara

[Daniel]

Nate, Tdogg, Vern, Lydia: You are in my thoughts and prayers and I send you all much love and healing- for you and your families. May the Light of Lights shine forth.

[RevVW]

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers. My computer gave up on me a couple of days ago, but my son-in-law fixed the problem, and I'm up and running.

Felt lost without being able to touch base, good to be back.

You are all in my prayers.

Nicole is doing well, it is going to be a rather slow process, but we know that all will be well.

Love, Vern

[Zerbie]

All of you continue in my thoughts and prayers as well.

:love: :love: :love: :love: :love:

[BenL]

... all will be well.

Vern,

I don't know if you quoted Julian (14th century English mystic) consciously, but that is what she says that Christ told her in a vision: "All will be well, all will be well, all manner of things will be well." (quoting someone's translation from the middle English from memory) That is the highest form of faith, I think, being able to accept that in God's hands all will be well. Thanks for using the words, intentionally or not.

Update on Charley: He's back to work. The tests showed no coronary disease whatever. The cardiologist says that whatever's happening is benign and he (the doc) is not overly concerned now that he has seen what the test shows. Thanks for all you prayers and support. I admit I was scared. It brought the reality of my/our mortality very close indeed. I wish I had been calm enough to recall Julian's dialogue with Christ.

[tdogg]

Vern, Ben - good news! Prayer definitely works. My dad had a good day, a very good night, I stayed with him again. His scan shows bleeding stopped, only one small bleed and appears the other bleedings have disappeared completely! he is pretty much back to his old pre-fall self. Still in ICU, probably get moved today. Has a touch of pneumonia to overcome before going home. We are all praising God and celebrating today for sure. Thanks for keeping all of us in your prayers. :love: :pray: :)

Nate, keeping you in my prayers. Your mom's boyfriend too. That's a LOT to deal with, physically for him and emotionally for everyone. Oh, and send up a special prayer :love: for a certain very special pending delivery of a precious baby niece! :love:

[keltic63]

Friends, I need your prayers.

I have a major financial problem, thanks to the IRS. I thought it would be taken care of by the purchase of my home, but I owe them again this year, and at the moment, I don't know where the money is going to come from. This is causing me emotional stress in addition to the financial burden.

Thanks for saying a prayer for me.

[NathanATX]

Friends, I need your prayers.

I have a major financial problem, thanks to the IRS. I thought it would be taken care of by the purchase of my home, but I owe them again this year, and at the moment, I don't know where the money is going to come from. This is causing me emotional stress in addition to the financial burden.

Thanks for saying a prayer for me.

Request an extension!

Praying.

Nate

[keltic63]

Request an extension!

Praying.

Nate

an extension only gives you more time to file, payment is still due tomorrow. All of this is compounded by the fact that I already have a payment arrangement with the IRS because of child support issues and who is allowed to claim them as dependents.

[andrewlittle]

an extension only gives you more time to file, payment is still due tomorrow. All of this is compounded by the fact that I already have a payment arrangement with the IRS because of child support issues and who is allowed to claim them as dependents.

You are in my prayers, Steve.

I know how relentless, intrusive and unforgiving the IRS can be. Don't be discouraged, despite what may seem very dark days when you are dealing with them and their threatening stands.

Andy

[kara speltz]

Friends, I need your prayers.

I have a major financial problem, thanks to the IRS. I thought it would be taken care of by the purchase of my home, but I owe them again this year, and at the moment, I don't know where the money is going to come from. This is causing me emotional stress in addition to the financial burden.

Thanks for saying a prayer for me.

Keeping you in my prayers. I'm sure you can work out a monthly payment situation. The interest is steep, along with the fines, but trust you'll get past all of this. kara

[Vanessa White]

And Nate, Lydia, Tdogg, and others, who have concerns. I have lost track of this prayer list, and will keep all of you actively in my thoughts. I would like to request prayers of my own. I also owed IRS, a whole lot more than I anticipated, and am very insecure about my immediate and long term financial future. In addition, I am asking for prayer to relieve my feeling of discouragement and hopelessness. I feel alone, and fragile, and that I need to feel a warm embrace. I am praying a great deal, and letting go as much as I can, but feel overwhelmed by my losses of love, home, child, and relationship in the last year. I need to feel the prayers of my friends here. Thank you all for you love and compassion, Vanessa :love: :love: :love:

[keltic63]

thanks Vanessa,

praying for you.


an update: I was able to secure the money to pay the IRS. That takes care of part of my problems this week. The rest, well, I'm still working on those.

[Daniel]

Do you have an tax accountant who is doing the paper work for you, or are you doing it yourself?

If you are doing it yourself, you may not be aware of the deductions you can claim- performers and musicians/teachers have some people don't think about.

Example: if you teach at home, part of that area used can be claimed; professional publications; dues; music; books; journals; rentals; trade papers and newpapers (one does not even have to have a receipt); Cable bill & telephone etc etc.

These deductions might take away a bit of the pain.

And when all else fails, the IRS, as Kara alludes to, is amenable to payment plans. It sucks- I know.

One option might be to borrow from a lender at a much lower rate than the IRS will give you.

[Daniel]

Steve! I see you posted as I was twiddling my fingers! Glad things resolved themselves! (for now) :love:

[kara speltz]

And Nate, Lydia, Tdogg, and others, who have concerns. I have lost track of this prayer list, and will keep all of you actively in my thoughts. I would like to request prayers of my own. I also owed IRS, a whole lot more than I anticipated, and am very insecure about my immediate and long term financial future. In addition, I am asking for prayer to relieve my feeling of discouragement and hopelessness. I feel alone, and fragile, and that I need to feel a warm embrace. I am praying a great deal, and letting go as much as I can, but feel overwhelmed by my losses of love, home, child, and relationship in the last year. I need to feel the prayers of my friends here. Thank you all for you love and compassion, Vanessa :love: :love: :love:

Dear Venessa: My prayers are that you feel enveloped in God's love and ours, and know that God will never fail you. kara

[u-dog]

I'll be praying for you Vanessa. I ALSO just untangled a mess with the IRS (Is there something about gay people that keeps us from getting this tax thing right?) It sucks.

[BenL]

... I feel alone, and fragile, and that I need to feel a warm embrace. I am praying a great deal, and letting go as much as I can, but feel overwhelmed by my losses of love, home, child, and relationship in the last year. I need to feel the prayers of my friends here.

Sending hug prayers your way. :love: :pray: :love: :pray: :love: :pray:

Our church has a prayer shawl ministry. Women and a few men knit or crochet shawls for people in need of healing, companionship, love. The shawls are blessed at Sunday service and delivered to the person in need.

Try finding a shawl that can make you feel warm and wrapped in God's love. Or knit or crochet one yourself, praying with each stitch. Invest it with your prayers and ours, and then wrap it around you, knowing God is caring for you even in your time of trial.

Many, many hugs. :love: :love: :love:

[kara speltz]

Sending hug prayers your way. :love: :pray: :love: :pray: :love: :pray:

Our church has a prayer shawl ministry. Women and a few men knit or crochet shawls for people in need of healing, companionship, love. The shawls are blessed at Sunday service and delivered to the person in need.

Try finding a shawl that can make you feel warm and wrapped in God's love. Or knit or crochet one yourself, praying with each stitch. Invest it with your prayers and ours, and then wrap it around you, knowing God is caring for you even in your time of trial.

Many, many hugs. :love: :love: :love:

How interesting, I've never heard of such a ministry, but I guess one of my congregation has. In the midst of my despair around quitting Soulforce, one of my congregation knitted me the most beautiful shawl, in my favorite colors. There's probably not a day goes by, that I don't have it on at some time in the day. And it worked too! That's a wonderful suggestion Ben.

kara

[Vanessa White]

I greeted the day today feeling a little better, a little bit lifted. And, BenL, I love your idea, what a beautiful way to wrap myself in love and comfort. So, last night, in general conversation with a friend, she told me that she knows how to knit, and will teach me. And I will create my own comfort. Thank you so much for your kind thoughts and prayer. I love this community of humans so much!!!!! Peace and love, Vanessa :love: :love: :pray:

[BenL]

The prayer shawl ministry has a Web site at http://www.shawlministry.com/

It's often touted as a ministry where women care for women, but my experience is that it has grown to become people caring for people. The fact remains that most men don't knit or crochet, though some do. But surely men who are terminally or chronically ill or housebound and lonely can get comfort from something warm and fuzzy like a specially crafted shawl. Sick children and babies are vulnerable and can use shawls. Sex abuse victims, who may cringe at human touch after their trauma, may find a warm shawl comforting and therapeutic. Well, you get the idea. And the crafters of the shawls use the activity as a prayer discipline. Lots going on here.

[andrewlittle]

Because of a couple of other treatment issues which take precedence, my wife will have to wait until May 22 to have a total hysterectomy. Before that time, but we're not sure whn yet, they will also be doing abdominal explorations to check see if the cancer has metasticized to other organs or lymph nodes.

Jenna has been cancer-free for 19 years after having one ovary with tumors removed. The doctors, based on the belief the cancer is slow growing, believe she has a good prognosis. She is, understandably, quite worried - as am I - but we just found out today and the full impact of all the information hasn't hit home yet.

[BenL]

She is, understandably, quite worried - as am I - but we just found out today and the full impact of all the information hasn't hit home yet.

Andrew and Jenna, I am holding you up in love, confident that God knows intimately the pain you feel and will comfort you. Look for the light, eschew the darkness if at all possible, and count on your SF friends to be storming heaven on your behalf.

:love: :pray:

[kara speltz]

Because of a couple of other treatment issues which take precedence, my wife will have to wait until May 22 to have a total hysterectomy. Before that time, but we're not sure whn yet, they will also be doing abdominal explorations to check see if the cancer has metasticized to other organs or lymph nodes.

Jenna has been cancer-free for 19 years after having one ovary with tumors removed. The doctors, based on the belief the cancer is slow growing, believe she has a good prognosis. She is, understandably, quite worried - as am I - but we just found out today and the full impact of all the information hasn't hit home yet.

Dear Andrew: Adding you and Jenna to my prayer circle. Much love, kara

[Zerbie]

Prayers your way!!!

:pray: :pray: :pray:

(Vanessa, I've also been holding you in my heart as always, sorry I didn't get around to posting so in a timely fashion. You remain in my thoughts.:love: )

[Vanessa White]

Andrew: My prayers are with you and your wife and you face this challenge. May the lord hold you in his warm embrace, and keep you in his tender care. I will think of you both.

Zerbie: Thanks for the thoughts, and for reminding me of them even when you are not posting. I have missed you. Love, Vanessa :love:

[keltic63]

andrew: prayers going up for you and Jenna

[u-dog]

You already KNOW that I'm praying for you two! Don't waste your healing loving energy on worrying! You hear me? Let the troubles of the day be sufficient thereto ... Let God handle tomorrow!

As much as it pains me to admit it... We love you ( by which I actually mean that "I" love you ... but somebody might think I'm gay or something). hang in.

Dave

[NathanATX]

Because of a couple of other treatment issues which take precedence, my wife will have to wait until May 22 to have a total hysterectomy. Before that time, but we're not sure whn yet, they will also be doing abdominal explorations to check see if the cancer has metasticized to other organs or lymph nodes.

Jenna has been cancer-free for 19 years after having one ovary with tumors removed. The doctors, based on the belief the cancer is slow growing, believe she has a good prognosis. She is, understandably, quite worried - as am I - but we just found out today and the full impact of all the information hasn't hit home yet.

Holding you both in prayer and peace.
love,
Nate

[u-dog]

A new member "youngtopper" shared some pretty heavy and unpleasant feelings about himself and how the news about his orientation might affect his life and relationships last Thursday afternoon and then hasn't logged on since. I don't want to embarrass him if he just went camping for the week-end or something but...

Could we all just kind of keep him in our prayers till we hear from him again?:pray:

[andrewlittle]

We still have nothing defnitive on Jenna's tumors. There is some hope, because of scans, that they are benign. They have decided to delay abdominal explorations until they do the hysterectomy and biopsy the tumors themselves. They will have a general surgeon available should further procedures be needed at that time.

Also, and this pales in concern, I am being considered for a call by three churches. Two, in particular, are attractive to me. I would like prayers for discernment - for both myself and the churches. Jenna is definitely leaving parish ministry, and we also need to be in an area where she can find meaningful and gainful employment.

Thanks

[kara speltz]

We still have nothing defnitive on Jenna's tumors. There is some hope, because of scans, that they are benign. They have decided to delay abdominal explorations until they do the hysterectomy and biopsy the tumors themselves. They will have a general surgeon available should further procedures be needed at that time.

Also, and this pales in concern, I am being considered for a call by three churches. Two, in particular, are attractive to me. I would like prayers for discernment - for both myself and the churches. Jenna is definitely leaving parish ministry, and we also need to be in an area where she can find meaningful and gainful employment.

Thanks

Dearest Andrew: Your family continues to be in my prayer circle. Please allow yourself to be wrapped in and comforted by our prayers for you and Jenna. Love kara

[Vanessa White]

Dear Andrew: I will continue to maintain you and Jenna in my prayers, regarding her health issues, and for the churches to afford you the opportunity that is best meant for both of you. Peace and love within, Vanessa :pray: :love:

[Thaddus]

We still have nothing defnitive on Jenna's tumors. There is some hope, because of scans, that they are benign. They have decided to delay abdominal explorations until they do the hysterectomy and biopsy the tumors themselves. They will have a general surgeon available should further procedures be needed at that time.

Also, and this pales in concern, I am being considered for a call by three churches. Two, in particular, are attractive to me. I would like prayers for discernment - for both myself and the churches. Jenna is definitely leaving parish ministry, and we also need to be in an area where she can find meaningful and gainful employment.

Thanks

Andrew, I am relatively new to this forum and tonite is my first night visiting this prayer request thread. I shall keep you and Jenna in my prayers for healing, hope, comfort and strength. I also want to thank you for spending the time to share your thoughts and insights in contributing to this forum. I really do benefit from the information from your posts. I aslo enjoy the many others too; such as u-dog, Zerbie, t-dog, Daniel, Pablo-dog, Scott, topchrist-dog, Kara and so many others. I believe you share my desire to live life to the fullest — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. We want a miracle from God so we can be a miracle for God. It’s not that we want anything less for others, but we want to live life fully blessed by God, no matter what medical science might have to say.
Believe it. God has miracles in store for you.
Thaddus

[andrewlittle]

But I would like to especially thank Thaddus, who i don't know very well as yet. We are relative strangers, which makes your kind and thoughful words, Thaddus, that much more a demonstration of the love we can only share because God first loves us.

Everyone else knows I love them and, being an egomaniac - a loveable one, though - I trust they love me. You, however, Thaddus I have not had much interaction with, and I am deeply touched by your gentle expression. Thank you, my new friend. Thank you, indeed. May God continue to bless you.

[BrentRichards]

Andrew

Can I ask my congregation to pray for you and Jenna this Sunday?

[keltic63]

Friends, Pray for me!

I am playing a wedding today at 2:00pm (EST)

I was cutting some veggies this morning at 10:00am


I sliced my hand across the fold between my thumb and pointer of my left hand. I've been to the ER and they glued me back together. I've got pretty good range of motion, but the pain seems to be increasing.

I just need to get through the wedding ceremony....
then church services tomorrow.....

oh, and a concert monday evening. :(

[Daniel]

We still have nothing defnitive on Jenna's tumors. There is some hope, because of scans, that they are benign. They have decided to delay abdominal explorations until they do the hysterectomy and biopsy the tumors themselves. They will have a general surgeon available should further procedures be needed at that time.

Also, and this pales in concern, I am being considered for a call by three churches. Two, in particular, are attractive to me. I would like prayers for discernment - for both myself and the churches. Jenna is definitely leaving parish ministry, and we also need to be in an area where she can find meaningful and gainful employment.

Thanks

Andrew and Jenna,

May the Deep Peace of Christ be with you now- and bring clarity and healing to you both.

You are in my prayers, thoughts and meditations.

[kara speltz]

Friends, Pray for me!

I am playing a wedding today at 2:00pm (EST)

I was cutting some veggies this morning at 10:00am


I sliced my hand across the fold between my thumb and pointer of my left hand. I've been to the ER and they glued me back together. I've got pretty good range of motion, but the pain seems to be increasing.

I just need to get through the wedding ceremony....
then church services tomorrow.....

oh, and a concert monday evening. :(

Oh my, what lousy timing! You're in my prayer circle. Don't know if you believe in the concept of redemptive suffering, but when I'm in intense pain, I offer it up for someone I'm concerned about. Somehow it makes it easier to bear. My prayer is for you is strength in the Spirit. kara

[Daniel]

Friends, Pray for me!

I am playing a wedding today at 2:00pm (EST)

I was cutting some veggies this morning at 10:00am


I sliced my hand across the fold between my thumb and pointer of my left hand. I've been to the ER and they glued me back together. I've got pretty good range of motion, but the pain seems to be increasing.

I just need to get through the wedding ceremony....
then church services tomorrow.....

oh, and a concert monday evening. :(

Oh Honey! I did that with a bagel knife a year ago. I'm so sorry this has happened to you! And I went and had myself glued together too. No 10th's for you. Stretching you hand might break open the wound.

I know a technique that can help with pain- and since it uses one's hand's, it might help. Here's what you do.

1) get yourself in a mediative/prayerful mode- that is- eyes closed- deep breathing -- calm.

2) imagine that you are putting your hand in a bucket of ice. Imagine that your hand has a tingling sensation- and that is is very very sensitive. And when you do this, say to yourself the words "gone gone gone'. The idea being that the pain is 'gone gone gone'.

3) do the same thing but imagine that your hand is in a bucket of hot water and say to yourself the words 'gone gone gone'.

The idea here is to stimulate the bodies own healing energy.

~

My prayers are with you.



:pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray:

[Zerbie]

Ay yi yi, Keltic!

Cop out on the octaves with the left hand. Just poke the bass with one finger, and fake the middle voices. Give it time to heal.

:love:

[u-dog]

YOuch! I'm prayin for ya. I understand the need to tough it out and play the wedding... but You might consider lining up a replacement for tomorrow and Monday.

It's two PM RIGHT NOW and you are probably playing the mothers music or the processional so I'm putting down what I'm doing to keep you in prayer.

:pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray: :pray:

[andrewlittle]

Andrew

Can I ask my congregation to pray for you and Jenna this Sunday?

That would be wonderful. Thank you.

[keltic63]

OH My, thank you all so much. Your prayers really helped. I was able to play the wedding without too many problems. I even did some octaves, Zerbie! Luckily, I've not had too much pain, although it's swollen and a bit ugly. I received many compliments on my playing, so things really did turn out well.

yeah, the arm is hurting from the tetanus shot. :rolleyes: that may prevent me from playing as I normally do on sunday.

You guys are the greatest. :love:

[Vanessa White]

Hi all: I just wanted add Jen to our prayer list here, since she wrote in another thread about another round of struggles in regard to her father. May she feel the warm embrace of her family here, and allow God's guidance to bring her and her family through this is a good way. :pray: :love:

[NathanATX]

Hi everyone,
I'm alive and well... thanks for all your prayers and kind words.

In the past few months, I've realized that I need to move back to Oklahoma to finish my degree. I can complete it in 3 semesters there or in 6-7 here in Austin... so I have to go back.

My boyfriend & I have been having some struggles over the past few months and I decided to end the relationship because he wasn't going to move with me because of his job situation and I didn't feel we were strong enough as a couple to endure the distance. So please pray for him...

I'm also leaving many dear friends, many of whom are basically now my family.

I'm leaving the young adult ministry that I started two years ago... but it is in the hands of some very capable and gifted young adults that have worked with me for over a year.

On the upside... I'll be in the same town as my mother, my two younger brothers and their families. I should be becoming an uncle for the second time in a week or so.

Also, I'm really looking forward to see what kind of ministry I'll be doing in Tulsa. I'm very excited about attending Carlton Pearson's church "New Dimension."

I believe this is a good move... and it's something I feel I'm being led to do. Please pray for wisdom, possibiity, and peace.

I should be more of a presence on the boards in a few weeks.

Peace,
Nate

[NathanATX]

He was found unconscious in his office today.

[Zerbie]

Nate,

Best to you on all the new ventures. Change like that is very stressful, I know. You are in my thoughts.

[BenL]

Please pray for wisdom, possibiity, and peace.

I'll add courage to the list. It must be frightening to separate from all the good things and people you listed. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

[Casey]

I dont know if this sounds selfish or not... but... I would really like for someone to pray for my girlfriend, Sadie... well now, she is my ex girfriend... Yesterday, probably the worst day of my life, she broke up with me because she believes our relationship is against God and wrong... I would like for someone to pray that she understands that its not wrong and that i love her with all my heart and soul... Please...

[sjbouza]

I dont know if this sounds selfish or not... but... I would really like for someone to pray for my girlfriend, Sadie... well now, she is my ex girfriend... Yesterday, probably the worst day of my life, she broke up with me because she believes our relationship is against God and wrong... I would like for someone to pray that she understands that its not wrong and that i love her with all my heart and soul... Please...

You and her are in my prayers Casey. Have you pointed her to this site? There is a great deal of literature and videos that will, well hopefully, give her a better understanding of what the Bible really says about homosexuality. Print out the booklet "What the Bible Does and Doesnt say about Homosexuality". Also, the thing that helped me the most are these two videos.

How Can I Be Sure That God Loves Me Too...Sermon by Dr White (http://www.soulforce.org/article/mel-white-sermon-video)

There's A Wideness in God's Mercy: Video Interview with Dr. Lewis Smedes on Romans 1 (http://www.soulforce.org/article/lewis-smedes-video)

Check those out. They really helped me to realize and accept that God made me just as He wanted me to be.

[Casey]

Thank you so much. She actually did see some of the things on this site, but ill try to show her these videos too. Hopefully i can get the love of my life back with your help... Thank you... You are in my prayers too

[andrewlittle]

Jenna will be undergoing testing and preparations tomorrow, and then have surgery on Tuesday. She is expected to be in hospital three days after surgery. As of this time, there is still limited optimism that the tumors (yes, now they know of several) are benign. We will not know for sure until the biopsies are performed as they are removed.

On the church front, I have to be careful what I say. I will just say that someone filed a complaint on Jenna's behalf, and the Bishop's process review committee decided (1) she was treated unjustly by her superiors, (2) she was the victim of bias and unfairness, and (3) she should be ordained in June as originally recommended. The ball is now in the Bishop's court, so we'll see what happens. Meanwhile her church is trying to get out of paying salary and benefits while she is off on medical leave. Ain't Christians great sometimes.

Keep her in your prayers on both counts, if you will.

[kara speltz]

Dear Andrew: Wow, it never rains, but it pours huh? You and Jenna are in our prayers. It absolutely makes me ill to watch a so-called Christian church body act so unjustly. kara

[BenL]

... Keeping you and Jenna in our hearts and minds, and asking God for the fullness of blessing for both of you.

[Vanessa White]

Especially Andrew and Jenna, with the struggles within the church and her physical body;

For Nate, safe journeys, adventures, and peaceful transitions;

For Casey, that what is meant to be will be, and that your love will find the peace within to embrace herself with love;

I will pray for all of you in my mind and heart. Feel the God power within.....

Love and prayer, Vanessa :love::love::love::pray::pray::pray:

[Zerbie]

Praying. :pray: I wish you and Jenna health, peace, and joy.
Please keep us updated.
:love::love::love:

[andrewlittle]

Jenna came through the surgery like a champ. They removed the three tumors they had identified, and some smaller ones that they didn't know about, as well performed the complete hysterectomy. The initial opinion is that all the tumors are benign, and that their source was the abnormal cell structures in the uterus. We will know more after the pathology report, but all indications lead to optimism at this point.

Jenna is recovering well, is in good spirits and has very good vital signs. She even has an apetite. Thank you for your continued prayers.

[Vanessa White]

Amen Andrew!!! Love and prayers, Vanessa :pray:

[BrentRichards]

Great news! Keep it coming!

[Zerbie]

:) Very good news!

I hope things continue to look well - keep us updated. :love:

[andrewlittle]

It is official - Jenna's tumors were benign. She is doing well, especially knowing no further treatments are necessary. Her pain is manageable and her outlook is very good - as long as she doesn't think about the church stuff. I do believe prayers were responsible, all of yours included. Thank you so very, very much.

Now, to the church stuff, and what life will look like moving forward.

Earlier, I had written:
On the church front, I have to be careful what I say. I will just say that someone filed a complaint on Jenna's behalf, and the Bishop's process review committee decided (1) she was treated unjustly by her superiors, (2) she was the victim of bias and unfairness, and (3) she should be ordained in June as originally recommended. The ball is now in the Bishop's court, so we'll see what happens. Meanwhile her church is trying to get out of paying salary and benefits while she is off on medical leave. Ain't Christians great sometimes.

The Bishop, who had said in a face-to-face meeting that included Jenna's advocates that there was no plan to "get rid" of Jenna, sent her an email the day before her surgery. The email said that she would NOT be re-appointed, she would NOT be continued in ministry, and that she WOULD be dismissed as of June 30. He cited the same unfounded, unwritten, slanderous report of her District Superintendent as was previously found to be "unfair and unjust" by the review team. He lied to her to her face, and then behind her back ignored all the findings of the judicial review team. She is, of course, in no condition to deal with this right now, as health is her top priority.

The net effect of the way this was done effectively removes her from consideration for ministry in any Conference in the US, unless she begins the entire process over again. Other UMC ministers are lining up to help "defend" her, but she is not sure she wants defending. She is done with it, I believe. She has no trust whatsoever that the UMC has any concept of ethics or the covenant relationship that is supposed to exist in a connectional system. She is, however, experiencing pain that cuts almost to her very soul.

WE have found some links that are particularly bothersome. A group in Iowa called the Methodist Lay Reform Movement (yes, they want the UMC to do away with female ministers, are staunchly anti-gay and against "political" involvement of the church - read, no social justice), is interestingly represented in this debacle. Jenna's current and previous church appointments, both of which have been contentious, have provided the main leadership for this movement (which, of course, no-one has bothered to disclose). Being a feminist, and voicing clearly her disagreement with the UMC stand on GLBT people, she is "the enemy" for this group, and they have effectively removed yet one more "liberal", female minister.

Anyway, this all brings up the need for prayers for our future livelihoods. As of June 30, we will both be jobless and effectively homeless. We have credit resources to survive for a period of time, but we are already in debt up to our shoulders from my not being able to find work in Podunk, Iowa. Only last month, when we realized that Jenna would not likely find a home in Iowa UMC, did I start a nationwide search for a church or non-profit position. These things generally take a good long time and, for a time anyway, we will need to find temporary housing and sources of income.

This is a long report. Please pray for whatever you feel moved to pray for. I am having trouble even contemplating what our needs are at this point. Jenna and I are quite overwhelmed.

[kara speltz]

Dear Andrew: How wonderful that Jenna's tumor were all benign. I remembered you at Mass during the petitions. And how awful that she was treated the way she was by the UMC. Unfortunately, it's not surprising given their track record. I'm afraid the the IRD (Institute for Religion and Democracy, sic) has successfully taken control of much of the UMC. They really should change their name to the IRT because what they want is not a democracy but a theocracy.

I know this must be a very scary time for the two of you. But never give up trusting that God does and will provide. Dorothy Day ran the Catholic Worker for 50 years, never knowing how the next days bills would be paid. She used to say God gave her just enough that she never forgot who it was she was dependent on.

You continue to be in our prayers. kara

[lydiam]

I need prayer support for my parents. I am one of the many who is struggling with family relationships (namely my mom) as a result of my sexuality. My Dad is a pastor and very supportive. I sent him a link to Mel White's "How Can I Be Sure God Loves Me, Too" sermon and he wrote back with this:

Lydia,

You are right. It is a fantastic sermon. Mel White puts it together in an amazingly appealing way.

I believe he is right about what makes any of us sure that God loves us. It is a message especially for homosexual persons, but it is so true for all.

I hear what he is saying and want to join in getting the message to my church and to homosexual persons. However, you know better than anybody what I am up against. I want to help my church become accepting and inclusive of all persons. I don't want to be a coward about it. Please, pray for me as I pray for you.

Most of all, Lyd, know that God loves you and of course, I love you. And I look forward to the day when your Mom can be unafraid and tell you she loves you. Meanwhile, we will remain open to God's leadership on how to approach her and others.

Love,
Dad

I'm praying for my dad's courage and wisdom with his church and his wife, and for my mom to open her heart. I'm also praying that I'll have the wisdom to know how to speak to my mom. Thanks for praying with me.:pray:

[Vanessa White]

I will pray with you for all of those intentions, as well as a prayer of thanks for you that you have such a loving person such as your father, a man of faith, to stand with you throughout your journeys. God be with your entire family and support system at this difficult time. Vanessa :love::pray:

[d_pedr]

Lydia

God be with you and guide you with your mum.

I'll keep praying that Jesus will give you his peace, and timing, as you speak with your mum.
After 20+ years, mine still thinks my sexuality is a phase that will pass (whatever she means by that).

d_pedr:love::pray:

[d_pedr]

Hi all

please pray for my application as a volunteer for Terence Higgins Trust. (Main HIV/AIDs support group here in the UK)
Pray that God will guide the application through, and I will be put with the right team, with duties that will bring the Glory to Him. I seem to have been fighting this call for years, due to confusion, and worrying about what others would think.
Pray also for my church's responce, as news gets out, my minister is one of my refererences, but I had to go to another elder (rather than my own) for the second reference, due to my elder's oppinions.

God bless you all

d_pedr:love::pray:

[lydiam]

d_pedr,
You are in my prayers as well. I'll be praying for you and the people in your church. Thanks for your prayers and encouragement. I'm almost hoping my mom will come to the place where she could at least think of it as a phase. Right now pretends I don't exist.

Vanessa,
Thank you for your prayer too! I really appreciate that and youre right, I'm a lucky girl to have my Dad.

[d_pedr]

Hi all,

have provisional date for volunteer interview with the Terrence Higgins Trust on Friday 15th June at 16:00, in Brighton.

please pray for my arriving on time - traffic and parking, and during the interview.

[kara speltz]

d: prayers are being sent your way for a successful interview. kara

[d_pedr]

Please can we all pray for Kitt2000, and his partner Todd, and his unwell brother Jim.

Kitt is going through a lot, having to leave Todd to look after his brother, getting used to computers, and forums etc. Loads of changes all at once.

I don't know what to reply on his 'Hello my name is' thread that would help, so hopefully this prayer requewst will.

God loves us all equally.

love and hugs

[u-dog]

Please can we all pray for Kitt2000, and his partner Todd, and his unwell brother Jim.

Kitt is going through a lot, having to leave Todd to look after his brother, getting used to computers, and forums etc. Loads of changes all at once.

I don't know what to reply on his 'Hello my name is' thread that would help, so hopefully this prayer requewst will.

God loves us all equally.

love and hugs

Amen and Amen! and I'm just laying in bed feeling sorry for myself so I will lead the prayer charge against the gates of heaven!

[BenL]

We here in Massachusetts have enjoyed same-sex marriage for three years. Tomorrow the Legislature will sit as a Constitutional Convention to decide whether or not to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot in 2008 that would define marriage as between a man and a woman only.

Despite some very moving television and print ads by MassEquality, most people think the amendment will move to the ballot. The opposition has cleverly framed the issue as "let the people vote", "do the democratic thing," but I'm sure that the ballot fight will be bloody and costly, with most of the money coming from out of state.

It is time to turn this over to prayer. I'm asking my Soulforce family to support us with your prayers.

What a difference a day makes! The amendment was defeated 151-45. Deo gratias.

[tdogg]

We here in Massachusetts have enjoyed same-sex marriage for three years. Tomorrow the Legislature will sit as a Constitutional Convention to decide whether or not to put a constitutional amendment on the ballot in 2008 that would define marriage as between a man and a woman only.

Despite some very moving television and print ads by MassEquality, most people think the amendment will move to the ballot. The opposition has cleverly framed the issue as "let the people vote", "do the democratic thing," but I'm sure that the ballot fight will be bloody and costly, with most of the money coming from out of state.

It is time to turn this over to prayer. I'm asking my Soulforce family to support us with your prayers.

Ben, I am praying! Didnt' realize this was happening already. For every couple of steps forward, we take one back. Others are watching this to see what happens, it could set some precedence and make gay marriage/civil unions more difficult to get through in the future if the issue successfully goes to ballot.

[progressive4christ]

continuing direction in helping the GLBT people(God's Little Rainbows). I feel that as a Christian we have a passion to serve God by serving others; especially the ones who are most vulnerable to hateful circumstances. I feel God has giving this in trust to me to show His love is for the GLBT people. I hope He uses me in a big way.

I was able to donate a few hundred dollars of household stuff to OutYouth an organization here in Austin, but I want to do more. So I need God's guidance and that He will bring the right peoplee in my life to make it possible.


:pray::pray::pray:

[d_pedr]

Many thanks for your prayers - I've had the reply after my interview with Terrence Higgins Trust.

They want to train me, but are not sure where to use me, due to my lack of 'experience' (clubs, bars, outdoor venues) over the last years as a single parent.

Please continue to pray:pray::pray:

[progressive4christ]

my husband was involved in a hit and run this morning. They hit the car behind him which thenstruck his car. The women driving the car jumped out and ran in opposite directions, so at least they got the car. He is ok so far. the rear end is damaged. We only have PIP for this car for it is old and a lot of miles. So, we more then likely will end up with the bill.

[BenL]

Giving thanks that your husband was not hurt. Holding you in prayer about paying for or replacing your vehicle. More than that, I know how shook up you get when you've been involved in accident, even a minor one. Praying for peace for both of you.

[Vanessa White]

progressive: I am also sending my thoughts and prayers your way, during an upsetting time. Accidents are very scary, no matter how "minor" they are in terms of physical or vehicle injury. I pray that all will be well with the outcome. Peace, Vanessa :love:

[u-dog]

my husband was involved in a hit and run this morning. They hit the car behind him which thenstruck his car. The women driving the car jumped out and ran in opposite directions, so at least they got the car. He is ok so far. the rear end is damaged. We only have PIP for this car for it is old and a lot of miles. So, we more then likely will end up with the bill.

Pro4Christ,

Tell your husband to be on the lookout for signs of depression over the next 6 weeks or so. It is an often overlooked side effect of whiplash and can take you by surprise.

[Paulus]

You might know of others in the North Texas area...

By Tuesday this week, Sherman, TX had had two drownings due to flash flooding; 1 two y/o & her grandmother. Gainesville, TX had lost 5 or 7 to drowning.

Many low-lying areas were flooded. A friend's son's apt (1st floor) had water chest-high, his borrowed car was below the water.

It could have been worse.

Due to the weather, we got another Flash Flood Watch until 4pm today; God willing, it won't rain or if it does, hopefully -- a light gentle rain instead of the gully-washers that we have been getting.

[gman620]

It's so nice someone did this thread. Here's some prayers I'd ask that everyone consider.

1. I pray that my father may recover from his heart problems. He lives in constant danger of serious illness and even death due to his health.

2. I pray that I will recover from my own medical problems (they're too embarrassing to mention on here).

3. I pray that God will heal my heart of all negative emotions and feelings, and help me to live in appreication for what I have, not for what I wish I had.

4. I pray that I will find that special someone, hopefully sooner rather than later :love:

5. I pray for all victims of terminal illness, natural disaster, violence, terrorism and oppression of any kind, here and throughout the world.

6. I pray for all members of soulforce, that you may all find happiness and peace in your lives, and remain strong and faithful to God, even in the darkest times.

[u-dog]

It's so nice someone did this thread. Here's some prayers I'd ask that everyone consider.

1. I pray that my father may recover from his heart problems. He lives in constant danger of serious illness and even death due to his health.

2. I pray that I will recover from my own medical problems (they're too embarrassing to mention on here).

3. I pray that God will heal my heart of all negative emotions and feelings, and help me to live in appreication for what I have, not for what I wish I had.

4. I pray that I will find that special someone, hopefully sooner rather than later :love:

5. I pray for all victims of terminal illness, natural disaster, violence, terrorism and oppression of any kind, here and throughout the world.

6. I pray for all members of soulforce, that you may all find happiness and peace in your lives, and remain strong and faithful to God, even in the darkest times.


Thanks G-man! You are a kind and gentle soul. I can pray all of these things with you... and will. Blessings on your pointy little head :love:

[Jennifer5]

On a lighter note, my younger brother's baby is due in June... it's a girl! :)
...and on that note... I saw the picture of her and she's adorable!!

Nate, I'm thinking of you! I admire your courage to get up and go when the time is right and not tie yourself down.

Hi all: I just wanted add Jen to our prayer list here, since she wrote in another thread about another round of struggles in regard to her father. May she feel the warm embrace of her family here, and allow God's guidance to bring her and her family through this is a good way. :pray: :love:
Only just read this tonight... and thank you! Luckily my mom's attorney is on vacation now through the end of the month, so until he's back we don't even have to think about any of it. :love:


I love all of you and will keep you in my prayers. :love:





Now,

I hope my brother will have a safe flight as he comes in tomorrow night (or actually tonight I guess, the 5th).

For my uncle... health stuff, that I don't feel I can go into (violation of privacy)

For my sister... because everytime my dad comes up, she'll say that things aren't bothering her.. but I can see that it isn't so.

For my mom... probably more then anything... because things come up with the attorney or with him or anything even relating... she becomes increibly stressed and scared. (because my sister and I really do mean the world to her... and it's sweet... but I just don't like seeing her get upset.)


:love:

[u-dog]

Hey friends,

I am in the midst of a major process of vocational discernment here and would appreciate a little prayer support from you. A job has opened up that I am interested in. However, to take it means I could never go back to what I do now with organization I currently work within. it would be a major career move. The job would allow me to do what I do while being much more open about who I am, but the money is significantly less than I currently make and I got 3 in college. I need a major NUDGE from the almighty if this is what he wants me to do.

[Zerbie]

Hey friends,

I am in the midst of a major process of vocational discernment here and would appreciate a little prayer support from you. A job has opened up that I am interested in. However, to take it means I could never go back to what I do now with organization I currently work within. it would be a major career move. The job would allow me to do what I do while being much more open about who I am, but the money is significantly less than I currently make and I got 3 in college. I need a major NUDGE from the almighty if this is what he wants me to do.

If you can live on the less money. . . what would this new career do for your spirit? What does your current career do for your spirit?

I say go where the spiritual growth is most likely stronger. Especially if you can meet necessary expenses with the pay cut. There all kinds of ways of making money. Not as many ways of strengthening the spirit.

Obviously you are going to tap into your own prayers on this. Follow your intuition. Sometimes something looks on the surface like exactly what we're looking for and need, but even though it fits the surface description, it is STILL the wrong path. If you receive a "no" message, follow it. If, on the other hand you receive a "yes" message, follow that.

[BenL]

Hey friends,

I am in the midst of a major process of vocational discernment here and would appreciate a little prayer support from you. A job has opened up that I am interested in. However, to take it means I could never go back to what I do now with organization I currently work within. it would be a major career move. The job would allow me to do what I do while being much more open about who I am, but the money is significantly less than I currently make and I got 3 in college. I need a major NUDGE from the almighty if this is what he wants me to do.

U-Dog,

The beauty of our holding this in prayer for you is that we don't have to go through the agonizing process of discerning and deciding. It's almost like a cop-out, but I'm just as glad I don't have to struggle with you. Anyways, I'll offer this in my daily prayer, knowing that God already supports you in whatever decision you make.

Zerbie is right. Submit the whole matter to the process. Poll the family, especially your spouse. Read up on the job. Search your own heart. Then let go for awhile. At least that's how I have to do it when I get stressed by a major decision that's not clear. You will know what to do at the right time. Then follow your gut. Think of us as watching your back for you.

[Zerbie]

One more:

I have a doc appointment momentarily for help with PMS - please pray that we can come up with a non-drug alternative to help with this. Drugs and Zerbie are a dire combination.

Thanks.
:love::pray:

[wmanion]

Hi All,
I would like you to remember my brother in prayer. As you know he has been a C-5 quad for thirty years when they only gave him five after his accident. Each day he has made it past those five years has been a miracle and we are thankful for each day. For the last ten years he has lived on kidneys that are not funtioning as they should. It has now gotten to the point where he bounces between the third and fourth stages of kidney failure. I know there are some in the group that have medical knowlege so you will know what I am saying when I say his output is now down to less than 900cc's a day with an intake of over 3000cc's. He is in a lot of pain and he is ready to go home...he has told me this on many occasions this past month. I just want you to pray that he will not suffer and that God will help ease the pain. I do not like seeing him in so much pain and unfortunate, as it is, many of the pain meds are processed through the kidneys and it adds to the problem. He is taking some valium but this interferes with his ability to breath...so he is really stuggeling. I do not want to let him go but I do not want him to hurt either. Please pray that God will have his way in my brother's life. Thank you!!

Hugz,
Bill

[BenL]

Bill,

Praying for you two. You already know that God loves both of you so much. We can never fully understand why suffering is part of God's plan ... but God understands and values both yours and your brother's. I'm praying for peace for both of you in these difficult days.
:love: :pray:

[u-dog]

We're praying friend... for both of you!! :pray::love::pray::love::pray::love:

[Vanessa White]

My thoughts and prayers are with both of you during this time of struggle. I know and believe that God will guide both of you through this journey, and do his will. You are held in a warm embrace among all of us here. Peace and love to you, Vanessa :love::love::love:

[Progo35]

Hi, Wmanion,

I'm so sorry to hear about your brother. I know that this must be heartbreaking for both of you. One thing I wanted to ask right away is if he's on the list for a kidney transplant and whether or not there is a registry where people can get tested to see if they're a match? I'm sure that many here would be willing to go and see if we matched and that there are others in your area who would be willing to do the same. I have a friend who did have a kidney transplant and it really helped her-she does not live in pain all the time now.

I will certainly be praying that God would be with your brother and would ease his pain so that he might live a fulfilling life with whatever time he has-long or short-on this earth. Has he tried any alternative medicines or therapies, such as herbal supplements and/or holistic therapies like meditation/fresh air? I wonder if these might be helpful as ways to mangage pain through a change in environment/a channelling/control of one's pain/stress.

I also have some good prayers somewhere that deal with praying for oneself or another person against sickness and pain. I will try to find them and send them to you via pm. I empathize with your brother just wanting to go home to heaven-that is the Christian hope, after all, and the place where God will be with us without any pain or sickness. We will be made whole. However, I pray that if it is God's will, he will open avenues to enable your brother to survive as a physically healthy person. And, as Jesus said of the blind man he healed in John 9, sickness and disability can be used to further God's glorty-so, remind your brother of how precious he is to God and of the inspiration he is to you. And, just simply be there to be empathetic. Please let us know if we can be of any further help or if any of us can help by getting tested as a possible match or encouraging others to do so.

Much love,
Meghan

[wmanion]

That is such a sweet post. Unfortunatley, he is not a canidate for a kidney transplant, he has been told that if he was to undergo a transplant that there would only be about a 1% chance of it working due to the degree of his spinal cord injury, due to the fact that he cannot move or exercise and the fact that ciruclation is so important to a successful transplant; it is too risky of an undertaking. And my brother said it is not worth takeing a kidney that would help someone else more in the long run, he said it would be a waste when it could give a mother, a father, or even a child a chance of a living a long life.
My bro has a wonderful heart. When the accident first happened, I prayed and prayed for a healing, and even got upset with God when he didn't deliver. However, my brother brought this back in prospective when he said, had he been healed, he would not have changed. He would have still done drugs, drank, and the next accident might have taken someone's life besides his own.
He has all ready declared that he does not want to live artifically and he has refused dialysis because he does not want to live on a machine. He has been in that chair 30 years now and he says he is tired, has had a wonderful life, and although he would never do anything to purposely end his life, he is awaiting the day that the pain will be gone for good. I cannot even relate to his pain because he feels it all in his head with sharp pains and his body will have spasms that makes him sweat. He literally has to be tied into his chair or else the muscle spasms would throw him out.
I am taking him to the doctor tomorrow, he will refuse to go into the hospital if the doctor suggests it, but he will take any medication the doctor prescribes.
Thank ALL of you so much for your prayers. I feel selfish when I ask God not to take him, so I just ask that God makes him comfortable and ease the pain.

Hugz,
Bill

[Progo35]

Bill,

I know that we will all be praying for God to ease your brother's pain. Yes, he does have a good heart. It is sad that a transplant will not work at this time, but I am sure that God has a plan "to give a future an a hope" to your brother, whereever that future is. Also, if your brother thinks that he may not live much longer, it still might be worthwhile for him to think about exploring alternative medicines or trying a change of scenery. While this may not prolong his life, such measures might be very helpful in relieving pain. Is there anything that he's really wanted to do for a long time? He should go and do it, if possible: this can really help with quality of life and closure. I would encourage you to encourage him to feel free to do this for himself.

One thing that I'm glad to hear for you is that it sounds like you and your brother have a very good relationship. That is a treasure: if your brother's time to go to Heaven comes, at least you both can say goodbye to each other in peace, knowing that you expressed love to one another.

Whatever your brother decides, it seems like he's really thought about what he wants. I will say that if he should decide that he would like to explore transplant options, he could always go to another doctor for a second opinion, as prognosis in the cases of people with spinal cord injuries are often bleak, even from the best doctors. Sometimes other consultation indicates a much more hopeful outcome. What I mean is, his decision not to do a transplant is perfectly okay if that is what he wants, but I hope he doesn't feel like it would be wrong for him to recieve a transplant: he's not obligated to give his life because of his injury, his life is just as important, and he certainly has a right to explore all options. But, it seems like your brother has been trying to make some very serious, difficult decisions and has been trying to do so altruistically. Has your brother looked into home hospice care to help with pain?

I'm sure many of us will be praying tonight before he goes to do the doctor tomorrow. And, once again, please let us know if we can do anything to help your brother in terms of providing advice, support, or assistance in anything.

I know that God has a close eye on your brother and know that he will be right there with him, esp. in the persons who love him, like you.

[keltic63]

Please pray for my kids. Today they are going on a "vacation" with their mother. The destination is the sister's house which is only about 3 hours away from here. My oldest son came to visit me yesterday and voice his concerns about the trip. The aunt has become very verbally abusive of the older 2 since I left their mother. She views them as "supporting" me and "hurting" their mother, and it seems to be because I have maintained a good relationship with my kids.
In addition, the family dynamic that plays out is the 9yo, who is wonderful by himself, becomes a brat around his siblings. he instigates, slaps, punches, calls names, etc. If the older 2 defend themselves or correct him, they are attacked by their mother and aunt.
My oldest son is not looking forward to this week. He knows that there will be nothing for him or his older sister to do. The week will focus on what the 9yo wants to do, and what the mom and aunt want to do: shopping. Any resistance to their desires, or suggestions as to doing something else, will be met with criticism. If it escalates, the aunt will somehow turn it into a popularity contest between myself and the ex.

He spent nearly 2 hours here yesterday talking about it. I feel for him, but there's really no way I can help him out of the situation. I'm hoping this is the last trip like this that he'll "have" to take.

[u-dog]

The only way you can win these kinds of battles is not to fight them. if Mom and Auntie behave badly and you behave well and fairly this will not be lost on your offspring. I know that you already know this.

As far as helping your kids get through it. Listen, commiserate, honor their anger with their mother, but never join them in it. Express your confidence in their ability to cope with whatever comes.

Sorry that they and you have to dance this dance... it is such a waste of peoples energy. I'm particularly sorry that the Auntie feels that its her place to stir up a situation that is complicated enough under the best of circumstances. :pray:

[Progo35]

Hi, Keltic,

I will certainly pray for your kids. I know that this kind of stuff is rough. If it's at all helpful, I would advise your two oldest to seek solace in each other when their aunt starts to say mean things, and also to bring something to help take their mind off it or help them think through it, like music on a portable CD player, which can be vindicating and soothing.

[keltic63]

Hi, Keltic,

I will certainly pray for your kids. I know that this kind of stuff is rough. If it's at all helpful, I would advise your two oldest to seek solace in each other when their aunt starts to say mean things, and also to bring something to help take their mind off it or help them think through it, like music on a portable CD player, which can be vindicating and soothing.

Yes, but my daughter is hoping to escape on her own by meeting up with a friend from college who lives in the area. That will leave my oldest son with no one to hang with on at least one of the days.

the music is a given. they'll both have their Ipods with them. My son also borrowed a book from me, so that should help him spend the time.

u-dog: as you suspected I did all of that. I also pointed out, reminded him, that much of this, esp from his mother, was really nothing new. I experienced a lot of these kinds of things when I was in the marriage. She's just redirecting the behaviors toward the kids. It took some time with a therapist for me to see that outside of my orientation, I was in a bad marriage! Much of what happened in the marriage, the things that went wrong, had nothing to do with my being gay. when I discovered that the marriage was lost, it made it easier for me to come out, or at least explore that part of me that I had denied for so long.

[Jennifer5]

Keltic, I will hold them in my heart.... I understand what it feels like to be in that kind of situation. :love:

[tdogg]

Just a little prayer request - my partners father is having knee replacement surgery tomorrow. The knee replacement is no problem. But last time he was under anesthesia, he had a heart attack. The family is very scared this time. So prayers for guideance for the surgeons and anesthesiologist, health and a successful procedure for dad, and some comfort and not too difficult waiting period for the rest of us. My partner has been really stressed for the last couple of weeks. It will be a huge relief when he is out of recovery and in a room after the surgery.

Thanks and love to you all. :love:

[d_pedr]

My prayers are with you.

Its good to know that you have that extended family, and how much support you've been able to give your partner.

Prayers go up for you all and the medical team who are performing the op.

love and hugs:pray::love::pray:

[Jennifer5]

For me, my sister, and I think above all my mom... my brother is gone again, and we all hate it. He belongs here. :'(


Pray that he and his girlfriend will either have a same flight back to NY the 21st or that they will chicken out, not get on the plane, and just come home.




:love:

[elcharrom]

I would like to request a prayer for myself, so that God can help me find the truth and guide me to the happiness I've been searching for.

[elcharrom]

Another request, for my family, we all need god's help and find ourselves with him again, we've been ignoring him long enough.

[tdogg]

Just a little prayer request - my partners father is having knee replacement surgery tomorrow.

Thanks for the prayers. Surgery went great, and I think he's coming home tomorrow. Had a fever this morning but broke this evening and much better. I think the atmosphere will be much better at home and he will heal faster. He is doing great at already working the knee and moving about with a walker! :love:

[Jennifer5]

Thanks for the prayers. Surgery went great, and I think he's coming home tomorrow. Had a fever this morning but broke this evening and much better. I think the atmosphere will be much better at home and he will heal faster. He is doing great at already working the knee and moving about with a walker! :love:

I'm so glad that he's going well... :love: :pray:

[Jennifer5]

For my brother... he and his girlfriend leave out of Portland tonight and head back to NY, just I hope that he stays safe and calm, he's terrified of flying.:love:

[tdogg]

For my brother... he and his girlfriend leave out of Portland tonight and head back to NY, just I hope that he stays safe and calm, he's terrified of flying.:love:

That's a tought one - sending up some prayers for a good trip, flight and some enjoyment on the flight for your brother (and his girlfriend). Oh, and so their next trip out won't be so long for you!!! :)

[keltic63]

Please pray for my kids. Today they are going on a "vacation" with their mother.......

He spent nearly 2 hours here yesterday talking about it. I feel for him, but there's really no way I can help him out of the situation. I'm hoping this is the last trip like this that he'll "have" to take.


Thanks for the prayers everyone. I got to talk to my oldest son about the trip on saturday. It wasn't good, but it wasn't as bad as he expected it to be. However, he did say that this was his last trip with the family to visit his aunt. I talked to him about it, and how he would need a strong backbone when the topic comes up, and it will as they go over thanksgiving nearly every year.

it was also good to see them again. they're like water for me, I need them to survive.

[dsdrane]

Good morning, All.

As some of you may know, I also participate over at GCN. I learned just yesterday that someone I've grown quite close to over time was viciously mugged over the weekend -- fractured nose, 40 stitches, etc.

I have no idea yet if this was a hate crime or a "garden variety" mugging. Regardless, it's very upsetting news.

Of course, I thank God it wasn't worse.

This friend -- Dave -- is a very friendly and loving presence at GCN and uses his free time to minister to others at his church and through his band Canaan. He gives tremendously of himself -- this in spite of the fact that he has suffered a number of losses recently.

His body will no doubt heal, but I fear the biggest challenge will be the emotional/mental healing.

Please remember him in your prayers by asking for God's peace and strength while he recovers.

:love:, -d.

[Vanessa White]

Dave: That is frightening news about your friend. I will pray for speedy healing on all levels, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. It had to have been a frightening experience for him, thank God he is okay.

I am also asking for prayers for myself, friends. I am again having some troublesome medical issues going on with me, that are concerning and frightening. ALthough I firmly believe that all will be well, I am worried at times about possible negative outcomes. I will not have any conclusive information for at least a few weeks, so if you could send some prayer energy my way, and upward on behalf of me, I would really appreciate it.

I love all of you here. Thank you for being such great friends.......:love::love:

[Zerbie]

Yes. Prayers, definitely.

For health, for healing, for all concerned.

:pray:

[u-dog]

PRAYERS!! On their way even as I type !!!!

:pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray::pray:

[BenL]

... for healing and peace of mind for both of you and your loved ones.

[Vanessa White]

First of all, for missmari, who is struggling badly right now, and needs mega prayers and support from all of us here. I know that we can all help her through her struggles right now. May God be with her, at her shoulder, when she feels most vulnerable and despondent......

And also, for one of my close friends, Jill. Her father is having major surgery today to remove a tumor that they suspect is cancer, and I want as much prayer energy with she and her family as possible today. :pray::pray::pray::love::love:

[wmanion]

Vanessa,
I have all ready been praying for Missmari and I will add Jill's dad. Prayer is a wonderful tool.

Bill

[Jennifer5]

Jill, missmari and Dave :pray: :pray: :pray:




Now, one that I'm having a hard time with...

There's this great guy who attends the church (the one that my sister and I go to school at) and he had a stroke about a year ago. Well, he hasn't been the same since... and I just found out this morning that he apparently fell off a ladder (and not a normal ladder, we're talking like two stories) and he's basically in a coma and isn't expected to make it. :'(

Please pray that he may some how come out of this and be okay, if at all possible... we need our Crazy Ray! :'(:'(:'(:'(:'(

[NathanATX]

For all of your prayer requests...

:love::pray: prayers for hope, healing & peace :pray::love:

much love,
nate