Until Everyone Hears

Operation Birthday: Days 12 and 13

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 23:07:00 +0000

Mission: make a viral video.

This was a two day mission. One was making the video. The other was for editing. I'm not sure if this video will actually go "viral" or not but it is definitely cute enough to do so.

Our youth group went to visit two of the "Recycled Kids" from our church. Lamar Wallace was one of them. Lamar is over 100. But for some reason he can get jiggy with it like he's 29. We asked if we could dance with him and he was all for it!

The result is our valentine greeting for the world. God loved the world so much He gave us His only son. We love the world so much we give you Lamar and The Cupid Shuffle and if it makes you laugh we'll tell you about God and His son too.

Share it if you can. I'll let you decide what "it" is.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 11

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 06:33:00 +0000

Today's Mission: Party!

I enjoy a good party. I enjoy throwing a good party even more! But when I'm the focus of the party yet I have no say in it, I get a bit nervous. I start asking the "what if" questions:

What if they have balloons? (I have a major phobia)
What if all they have to eat is mushrooms and cucumbers? (I don't eat fungus and cuke seeds are too strong a flavor for me)
What if I'm not dressed right?
What if I say the wrong thing?
What if others don't have fun?
What if no one talks to me?
What if I don't convey my appreciation enough?

Before you start thinking that I'm a worry wart or wonder where your invitation went, let me tell you that my party for close family and friends was a worry free one.

We had a marvelous time and it was a great celebration.

The women and the children joined in the celebration, and the noise they all made could be heard for miles. Nehemiah 12:43

Until Everyone Hears,

Sis' girls with my Dori

A different sis - Johnsafanda

Stepmonstor and me

Daddy and me

Operation Birthday: Day 10

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 13:35:00 +0000

Today's Mission: buy stuff for the amazing family dinner I'm making, work on a video, enjoy a kids movie night.

Accomplishments: waited 2 hours and 30 minutes in the eye doctor's office.

Sure they can make an appointment time but they can't keep the appointment time. I checked my kids out early from school for this and then did not have time for grocery shopping or energy to do much of anything else.

I did however have the energy to sit on the sofa and watch Tangled. My three year old asked a ton of questions like, "Can I go into that TV and hit the mean lady?" and "Why are they singing AGAIN?"

Then I crashed at 8:30 pm exhausted from all the celebrations this month and from the unnecessary waiting at the eye doctor.

Welcome to the "F" years!

James 5:7
[ Patience and Prayer ] Be patient, then, my friends, until the Lord comes. See how patient farmers are as theywait for their land to produce precious crops. They wait patiently for the autumn and spring rains.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 9 (aka the actual birthday)

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:41:00 +0000

Today's mission: 72nd floor of the Westin, shopping at Mall of Georgia

Other Bonuses: flirting with the hair straightener guy, coming up with an idea for a comic duo, eating a cake pop for breakfast, flowers from my man, Varsity for lunch, not getting sick from lunch, a late dinner with my man, notes and flowers from my boys, lots of plans for future birthday missions, lots of well wishes, a surprise appearance by those-who-shall-not-be-tagged...

One TIRED 40 year old.

Proverbs 22:6

New King James Version
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 8 (a day late and a $ short)

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 04:06:00 +0000

My First Shoes

My First 40 something Picture

Today's mission: girls night in!

I have a three year old who has learned very quickly the importance of girls night out (or in). She asks on a fairly regular basis when she and I can have girls night. For her, girls night is all about the popcorn and coke that she deems as a requirement to all girls' nights. She also strongly believes a movie should play a key role but knows that it is not crucial.

The men of the house scored some free Hawks tickets for the evening so it was a perfect opportunity for girls night. She and I (and a few other friends) were able to celebrate my last night of my thirties. The thirty-something decade was surly a great one. I had an amazing time during this tenure. I visited Vienna. I preached the opening of a new church. I had a baby girl. I completed my Master's degree. I visited London and Paris. I became a dog owner. I met amazing people. .I read through the Bible. I learned how to paint.

So as I sat with my friends to ponder the importance of these years, I enjoyed a tall glass of one of my favorite cocktails - limeade mixed with a fiber supplement.

I know how to party.

He-who-shall-not-be-named-in-sermons-or-blogs snapped the above photo at 12:01. My first minute of being 40 was exciting. I got flowers and hugs and then shooed everyone out the door because I was about to turn into a pumpkin. It was, after all, two hours past my bedtime.

Proverbs 22:6

New King James Version
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 7

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:23:00 +0000

Today's Mission: Spa Day

How am I able to afford all these luxuries you ask? Gift cards left over from Christmas. Its a great strategy when your birthday is 1.2 months after Christmas.

Today I was able to get a massage (photo not permitted and author would not like it shown in either case). Then I had a lunch with some great friends.

It may not have been the complete package but it was very relaxing and enjoyable.

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. - Philippians 4:7

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 6

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:11:00 +0000

Technically its day 7 and I'm breaking #5 on the list: blog daily with pictures. But its late and I didn't really do anything from the list today so I'm gonna turn back my clock and pretend I am doing #5. Can I do that on Thursday too? (actually turn back the clock I mean)

As for a picture, here you go.....

That's me after the clock is turned back. Or my daughter. She is a mini-me.

Psalm 97:9-11

New International Version (NIV)

⁹ For you, LORD, are the Most High over all the earth;
   you are exalted far above all gods.
¹⁰ Let those who love the LORD hate evil,
   for he guards the lives of his faithful ones
   and delivers them from the hand of the wicked.
¹¹ Light shines^[a] on the righteous
   and joy on the upright in heart.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 5

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 02:57:00 +0000

Today's mission: worship God and plant some seeds for further missions.

I had a great day at Hopewell UMC. I've got something planned for the youth to help me check something off my list next week.

Other than that, there was some sporting event that I had on the TV while I ate snacky food.

It was a good day.

Exodus 20 -

⁸ “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. ⁹ Six days you shall labor and do all your work, ¹⁰ but the seventh day is a sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. ¹¹ For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 4

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 03:41:00 +0000

Tonight's mission: go to a place where I have to wear formal attire.

I was kind of at a loss on this one. I'm not one to dress up often and he-who-shall-not-be-named-in-sermons-or-blogs' idea of dressing up is wearing jeans and a shirt that isn't a t-shirt or sweat shirt.

Either I was going to have to drag my date kicking and screaming or book a cruise really fast. Neither was really an option.

But thanks to my amazing friend Lynda Owens I was able to pull this one off. She was a major player in the Miss Sandy Creek pageant this year. I had already planned on attending since two beautiful girls from our youth group were entered.

Lynda asked me if I'd like to be a sponsor for the pageant and present the sponsor award for the student who raised the most sponsorship money. In doing so I not only got to get all dressed up, I also got to help out backstage during the pageant and crown the sponsor award winner (and yes I tried on the crown before I presented it).

This was no "toddlers and tiaras" pageant. These were real girls who were just a beautiful on the inside as they were on the outside. It was fun and glamorous. I even got to lace someone's built in corset. Who knew dresses were still like that?

So thanks again for the opportunity Lynda! I thoroughly enjoyed myself.

1 Peter 3:2-4

New International Version (NIV)

² when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. ³ Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. ⁴ Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 3

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 02:48:00 +0000

Tonight we attempted #24 on my list: a super romantic date night. I had hoped to combine this one with #10 and see a show at The Shakespeare Tavern because this month is Romeo and Juliet but alas my date would rather get "stabbed with a knife" than see a Shakespeare play so we went out for a lovely dinner.

On the way there I told he-who-must-not-be-named-in-sermons-or-blogs that this was supposed to be a super romantic date night. So he looked at me and reached over....

and...

put B98.5 on the radio.

Which may have been a lame attempt at romance if Delilah was still on this channel in Atlanta but she isn't so we listened to Asia on the way to Carrabba's.

We had a great dinner with no children and came back to watch the Disney channel with the remaining awake children.

So romance may not be what it was when we were in our 20's but we''ll take what we can get.

" I went to my garden, dear friend, best lover! breathed the sweet fragrance.
I ate the fruit and honey,
I drank the nectar and wine.

Celebrate with me, friends!
Raise your glasses—'To life! To love!' "- Song of Solomon 5:1 The Message

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday: Day 2

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 02:55:00 +0000

Today's mission: Walk into a restaurant and shout, "Hey everybody! It's my birthday! Drinks are on me!"

Plan A was to hit Starbucks this morning. Morning turned to mid-morning and by the time I reached Starbucks (the slow one in the Kroger), no one was really there. It didn't feel right. Epic fail.

So I went to plan B. I called a few more people and discussed it over lunch. I went to the more popular Starbucks just after a late lunch. Not as expensive, um I mean, crowded as the morning but still had a good flow going.

My partner in crime JLJ wanted to scope things out so she went ahead to see how many people were in there and I stayed outside. I wanted to just pop in and make my announcement so I didn't chicken out.

She came out and said there were about 10 people inside. So I rushed in and shouted my announcement and waited for the cheering and celebrating....

What I got was some crazy looks and one casual dude who looked up from his laptop to say "Happy Birthday." (note there is no exclamation point here)

But one of the people in line said, "Seriously?"

"Yes!" I said. "I have a list of things I want to do for my birthday and this is one of them." I put a stack of cash on the counter and told the Barista to keep ringing people up until it was all gone. She was so excited that she was almost jumping up and down.

Finally people realized I was serious. I wasn't crazy (visibly). And they really could get a drink for free. Now the happiness started and people were excited. Even before they got their caffeine, they were more awake and ready to take on the afternoon. All because they got some free coffee.

It made me happy. I got an adrenaline rush. I'm not sure I can top it tomorrow. But alas I will try.

Leviticus 23:37
(“‘These are the LORD’s appointed festivals, which you are to proclaim as sacred assemblies for bringing food offerings to the LORD—the burnt offerings and grainofferings, sacrifices and drink offerings required for each day.

Until Everyone Hears,

Operation Birthday - Day 1

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:08:00 +0000

Well here we are. Day 1 of my month long celebration. I'd like to tell you that I was greeted by breakfast in bed with Harry Connick Jr serenading me followed by a hot stone massage. But I woke up to an alarm that didn't go off and had to make my own tea and oatmeal. It could be worse. I am fortunate to have tea and oatmeal.

My plan for day 1 was a GNO that had to be postponed on both ends of the G's. So my back up plan went into effect.

I've placed a few painting on ebay as a fundraiser for our youth group. I haven't had any nibbles but have had a few views. If you are interested, here's the link for one of them: http://www.ebay.com/itm/220935979308?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649#ht_500wt_1203

And some of the pictures are below. Not a very exciting day for the start of Operation Birthday but I do get an extra day this year for the month long celebration so I'm sure I'll make up for it.

Psalm 2:7-9
Let me tell you what God said next. He said, "You're my son, And today is yourbirthday. What do you want? Name it: Nations as a present? continents as a prize? You can command them all to dance for you, Or throw them out with tomorrow's trash."

Until Everyone Hears,

What like you blend?

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I'm not a crafter most of the time but tonight in the Karafanda home we melted crayons together into a heart shaped mold.

The project required using "naked" crayons broken into small pieces. When I'm coloring with my three year old, all I find is naked, broken crayons but when needing them for a craft we (and by "we" I mean Jessica Johnson) had to take all of the paper off of the ones we were using.

The craft didn't have the results expected. We were hoping for more of a marbled look that might color two colors at once. What we got was more of a finger painting look. The colors didn't really blend most likely due to a temperature/time difference.

Sometimes we try to blend things together that don't need blending. They might compliment each other but fusing the two together just doesn't work. A great example of this is peanut butter and chocolate. They taste great together but put together in a food processor, you won't end up with complimentary flavors but a totally different taste. Not a bad taste but different.

There are times when you want things to compliment each other and when you want them to blend. We have to realize this with people too.

There are times when we need to hear amazing solos from people and other times we want to hear a great orchestral work.

What I ended up getting was the crayola equivalent of a chamber orchestra or even a string quartet.

So today as you follow what God is calling you to do, ask if you are supposed to be blending or complimenting. It could make all the difference in how you serve Him.

Until Everyone Hears,

Commando

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

"And do not go up to my altar on steps, or your private parts may be exposed." - Exodus 20:26

I'm not sure exactly what kind of underwear they wore in Biblical times but this verse leads me to think that they went commando.

There have been those rare times in life when I've worn a skirt or dress and had to walk somewhere with the fear that a) I'll end up doing a Marilyn Monroe and not looking quite so sexy at it or 2) there will be guys under the bleachers trying to see if my name is Victoria and I have any secrets.

Most of the time its not an issue. I'm more of a jeans girl so my biggest worries are if crack kills or if my jeans qualify at mom jeans.

I always thought that clothing didn't matter to God. God didn't care how we dressed for church - He really just wants us to go to church. And Jesus tells us not to worry about what to wear - I try to think about that every time I get shopping anxiety trying to find the right outfit.

But even though we aren't to worry, I think that God does care about our clothes. He cares about everything about us. We may wonder at times why all this weird stuff is in the Bible but when we step back and take a look at it, there's a sentiment that God cares about everything we do. Not that we need to worry about every detail but that every detail matters to God.

God doesn't want others to see our hoo-ha during a time when we are doing something sacred (like going to God's altar). Hoo-ha viewing is reserved for those select times when we 1) are being fruitful and multiplying or B) seeing a doctor for medical necessity.

So don't go commando at church. And remember that God loves you no matter what, but He can still have a good chuckle when we have a wardrobe malfunction.

Until Everyone Hears,

Barbie

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I've never been much of a Barbie fan. Not because I'm morally opposed to Barbie but I never had one growing up so she just wasn't on my radar.

After having two boys I was thrilled to have a girl for two reasons 1) the clothes are so much cuter and b) I was excited to play with the toys of my youth again.

Don't get me wrong. Front end loaders are really fun to play with but fashion plates have more of a draw for me.

My little girl will be four this year but I can remember her first Christmas. I was SO EXCITED to be able to shop the pink section of toys instead of the battery operated, noisy, transforming alien-truck-monster-spinning-battle-to-the-death section.

I lingered in the princess aisle and finally stopped in the Barbie section to see what I've been missing. I saw Barbie, Ken, some pre-teen relative named Kelly (or something), a dream house, a mustang, Barbie as a doctor, Barbie as a Vet, Barbie getting married, Barbie's racially diverse friends, Barbie going to a Christmas party, etc

I double checked the aisle to make sure I wasn't missing something. Where was Reverend Barbie? Did the Southern Baptists have control over Mattel so that Barbie could be whatever she wanted to be EXCEPT a spiritual leader?

This led me to question the entire spiritual life of Barbie (who is really quite old and doesn't seem to be able to commit to a profession at all). Who was Barbie's military chaplain when she was in the Army? Did she ever have to call in a clergy person when she was a doctor assisting a dying patient? Who was the officiant at her and Ken's wedding?

Why is there no one in Barbie's life to lead her into the more spiritual parts of this world? More specifically - has no one ever shared the good news of Jesus with Barbie?

And what does it mean for my daughter that Barbie can be anything from a plastic surgeon to a McDonald's cashier and yet she has no chance of being clergy?

So I bought me a Barbie and I told her that God loves her. I told her that God has always loved her and wants her to realize that with God in her life she can be transformed so that the dream house and mustang aren't the limit to her success. She can "do all things through Christ who strengthens her." (Philippians 4:13)

I guess I did a great job because as you can see above, Barbie gave her life to Jesus and became an Ordained Deacon in the UMC. She lives in the youth room at Hopewell UMC. She gets her liturgical colors a bit confused at times but she (literally) sits at the feet of Jesus and hopes to see some real transformation going on in that room.

Today my daughter got a Doctor Barbie in her Happy Meal. I smiled knowing that no matter what Barbie's calling truly is, she is on the right track. I've seen it myself and hope to see it in others as well before my calling here is done.

Until Everyone Hears,

My Misguided Prayer List

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

“If you don't know what you're doing, pray to the Father. He loves to help. You'll get his help, and won't be condescended to when you ask for it. Ask boldly, believingly, without a second thought. People who "worry their prayers" are like wind-whipped waves. Don't think you're going to get anything from the Master that way, adrift at sea, keeping all your options open.” James 1:5 MSG

Dear God,

Here's my list:

Help me loose weight
Help me be successful
Help my kids stay healthy
Help my kids with their grades
Help my family to be happy and healthy
Help the sick people in my church
While we are at it, please help all sick people and people who are poor or treated unfairly

Thanks. I love you.

Amen

Dear Shannon,

In regards to your list:

Exercise and eat healthy
Stay off Facebook
Tell your kids to wash their hands
Turn off the TV
Turn off the TV, stay off Facebook, and wash your hands
Visit the sick people in your church and next time prove to me you know their names.
I will if you will.

Thanks. I love you too.

-G

Until Everyone Hears,

Everyone needs a cheerleader

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Working in youth ministry has been the most rewarding calling that I've followed but also the biggest blow to the ego. If the youth don't make you remember how little you actually know, then there will be a parent who will throw you a curve ball and ask you a question that only prayer can give you the answer to.

It's not easy. There is VERY high turnover in youth ministry. I know several who have left the church entirely due to a bad situation at one of their churches.

But I also know a few select elite youth ministers who have been doing it for years and still get joy out of their calling. And I think I've found one of the secrets to their endurance (there are more but this one hit home this week): they all have a cheerleader and often more than one.

A cheerleader can do a lot of things to help keep you going when you need a little pick me up.

1) A cheerleader gets the entire crowd roaring. Even when you're losing, cheerleaders will get the entire crowd to rally behind you.
2) A cheerleader expects you to fumble but still keeps cheering. . Your "fans" may boo at you and throw red solo cups but your cheerleaders will still shout out some praise.
3) A cheerleader reminds you why you play the game. When you hit those time when you forget why God calls you into ministry, your cheerleader reminds you of the passion you started with.

If you have a cheerleader in your life, thank them today for what they do and if you don't have one find one who will cheer you on with the grace that only God can put in our lives.

Proverbs 15:15
A miserable heart means a miserable life; a cheerful heart fills the day with song.

Until Everyone Hears,

How to be a big brother...

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:54:00 +0000

There have been a lot of baby celebrations going on around me lately. So for those of you who have newborns and especially those of you who have a newborn with an older sibling, here is a video my son did in third grade about being a big brother.

Even if you don't have a "brand new baby" around the house, this is still pretty darn cute.

Luke 18:15
People brought babies to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. When the disciples saw it, they shooed them off. Jesus called them back. "Let these children alone. Don't get between them and me. These children are the kingdom's pride and joy. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in."

Until Everyone Hears,

I ain't got rhythm...

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 18:41:00 +0000

For those of you who think you don't have rhythm....

May you discover today what your calling is and share it with the world.

Psalm 66:1
All together now—applause for God! Sing songs to the tune of his glory, set glory to therhythms of his praise. Say of God, "We've never seen anything like him!" When your enemies see you in action, they slink off like scolded dogs. The whole earth falls to its knees— it worships you, sings to you, can't stop enjoying your name and fame.

Until Everyone Hears,

Daniel

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

This is Daniel. He's a crazy, liberal Democrat. But he's a United Methodist and engaged to a brilliant girl who has amazing taste in higher educational institutions so he does have some good qualities.

Actually he's a funny guy with a passion for America and a passion for God.

Daniel needs a kidney. He's too young to need one and to have any health problems but he does everything his doctors say and yet still needs a kidney.

I'm not the best one to tell his story. He is. So go to http://danielneedsakidney.com/ to learn more.

Or better yet click on the donate button on that page. You can read on his web site how expensive the procedure and anti-rejection drugs can be and how much money he has to raise and how much can get matched.

Luke 9

¹ Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. ² He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

Until Everyone Hears,

Advice

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

I recently taught an adult Sunday school class. I hadn't taught one of those since before there were Mormon billboards along the interstate.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect but I wanted to bridge the gap between the youth and this class. I thought about making them play capture the flag as a warm up exercise. I pondered asking them in what way Lady Gaga's latest album was more spiritual. I even thought about modifying a cheek sista ritual.

But in all of those cases, it was just too much of a boundary to cross so I settled. And I'm glad I did.

I decided to ask them what one piece of advice they would have for youth or those working with youth. Their opinions were nothing new but always good to hear. So here we go. I hope you can gain some wisdom from these. I know I did.

Balance the three F's - Fun, Fair, and Firm
Be Consistent!
Tell the Truth - its easier than backpedaling
Don't let anyone tell you you can't follow your dreams
Seek first the kingdom of God
Pick your friends carefully
Never settle for second best
Stuff you say will follow you forever
Think before you speak.
Always know how valuable education is.

Daniel 4:27
Therefore, O king, let my advice be acceptable to you; break off your sins by being righteous, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. Perhaps there may be a lengthening of your prosperity.”

I missed my chance...

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:11:00 +0000

This weekend I did my emergency trip to Sam's. I know it is time to return to Sam's once we run out of Nutella. We were about five days past due. So after spending the minimum $200 requirement, I proceeded to the check out. The cashier began checking us out and telling us about his own Nutella addiction when my son realized that my name on the check out screen had an "Rev." in front of it. As this is not a standard title available at all places, he thought it was pretty cool.

The cashier took notice as well and asked, "Are you a minister? What denomination?" "Why yes I am!," my proud-self said while trying to get my three year old to stop climbing the flat bed cart where this nice young man was trying to stack 30 bags of Bugles.

"What is the difference between the UMC and PCUSA?, " the inquisitive cashier continued.

"Well I don't know much about the different Presbyterian denominations," I honestly stated.

"Well one is very traditional and conservative and the other one is pretty anything goes." he explained. (yes I know there are more than two but this is what the theological cashier at Sam's gave me so I went with it.

I had a moment. I was being asked a religious question that might transform a life for the transformation of the world. And here was my answer...

"Well we're pretty moderate. We ordain women but don't ordain homosexuals." - said the female pastor with the master's degree.

God had given me the moment. An opening that few people ever get - a willing and captive audience. And my answer boiled down to gender and sexual preference.

I felt guilty the rest of the night. We believe in so much more.

I'm not making that mistake again. Since you've read this far, I'm going to assume I once more have a captive audience. What do we believe? Here are just the highlights. Want to know more? Let me know.

We believe in a living, loving God revealed through Jesus Christ.
Our faith is a choice we make that can be nurtured through a Christian community.
Salvation is a gift from God. Once we get on this road, we are on the way to perfection.
Grace is wonderful but not always fair. Even that idiot next door receives God's grace even though he's grumpy and wanted to sue you that one time because you cut down a tree. Yeah - you might be a "better" person but you both are loved by God.
Faith is active - meaning if someone believes you should be able to tell by what they do.
Theologically we use Scripture, experience, tradition and reason as a guide for how our beliefs interact with the world around us.
Sure we disagree at times but we don't disagree with #1 so our disagreements are kind of like sibling bickering - its annoying but when it comes down to it we've got each other's back.
We have two sacraments - communion (which we can do in church as much as we like) and Baptism (which we do with God only once - cause God always keeps His end of this deal so there's no need to redo the whole thing).
If you went to 10 different United Methodist Churches on Sunday, you'd probably find 10 different styles. One might have a rockin band singing contemporary worship songs. Another might have a gospel choir singing African-American spirituals. You might have a preacher who uses the lectionary each Sunday or one who creates a sermon series based on topical current issues.
We do ordain women (and men too). But we feel that all are called into service for God

Now for the beliefs you won't find on the UMC.org website:

We do have The Davinci Code secrets hidden in some of our churches. I have cracked this code and can let you in on some of the secrets. For instance the different colors that the pastors wear on Sunday stand for different things.
Food other than communion is not a sacrament but is still holy. It is holy in a different way in America than it is in other countries.
We believe that youth and children are important but the youth at my church are the most important.
We are all about the numbers. Jesus fed 5000 so we need to try and live up to this standard as best we can.
Some of us go to church to be seen. Unfortunately they don't realize God is watching.
Our doors are open. Unless you come in late or too early or want to steal our sound equipment.
Our hearts are open - most likely due to our love of holy food and the doctors willing to open them up and fix them.
Some of us love to sing but that doesn't mean we can.
Some of us are tippers. Others are tithers. If you can get the government to stop talking about money, maybe we will too. (but Jesus didn't so that would be hard for us to do)
Apparently some churches have a dress code but only a select few know about it. The rest are free to dress as they wish.

Maybe if I had more than twenty seconds I could have gotten a few of these across to the Sam's guy. But maybe, just maybe, he's an avid blogger and I can correct my fault.

Genesis 15:6
And Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith.

Until Everyone Hears,

Can I pass for your sister?

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:10:00 +0000

When I first started in youth ministry, I was often asked where the Youth Pastor was. I specifically remember taking two sixth graders to a service project and being mistaken for one of them.

It happened. It was embarrassing at the time but something I replay in my head now when I see a new wrinkle.

I wasn't surprised when that stopped happening as much as that I immediately when from being mistaken for a youth to being mistaken for a youth's mom. While that doesn't bother me anymore (I know have a child in sixth grade), it did bother me when it first happened. I guess age - no matter what the circumstances - will always bother women.

So when I started at Hopewell and began to visit some of the kids for lunch at school, I had one youth say that people would probably think that I was her mom because we both had blond hair. As much as I would like to have her gene pool (she is slim, beautiful and talented), I really would have preferred to be mistaken for her older sister than her mom. So i started telling everyone who asked that I was her sister. For the most part people would be polite to me and realize I was crazy when this youth would roll her eye and say very loudly, "NO SHE'S MY YOUTH PASTOR!" After that it became a marketing tool. It was easier to spread the word when youth made and outburst about who I was thereby giving me an in to say something youth group related without crossing the scary church/state boundary that scares so many.

But the moment that thrilled me the most was when I was at the middle school with a different youth and a 7th grader came up to her and asked if I was her sister. It happened and now I have something else to replay in my head (of course I did suggest that this youth's friend may need a trip to the eye doctor).

I don't think I look anything like my picture from 8th grade above but I do think I have kept a portion of my young heart in tact so that I'm still fun and faithful (even if it is only in my mind sometimes).

Psalm 103:5
He fills my life with good things. My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!

Until Everyone Hears,

What are you doing for others?

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

A genuine leader is not a searcher for consensus but a molder of consensus.

A nation or civilization that continues to produce soft-minded men purchases its own spiritual death on the installment plan.

Have we not come to such an impasse in the modern world that we must love our enemies - or else? The chain reaction of evil - hate begetting hate, wars producing more wars - must be broken, or else we shall be plunged into the dark abyss of annihilation.

He who passively accepts evil is as much involved in it as he who helps to perpetrate it. He who accepts evil without protesting against it is really cooperating with it.

In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.

Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'

Our scientific power has outrun our spiritual power. We have guided missiles and misguided men.

Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.

The past is prophetic in that it asserts loudly that wars are poor chisels for carving out peaceful tomorrows.

The Doubter's Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Shannon Karafanda) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 05:01:00 +0000

THE DOUBTER'S PRAYER
by: Anne Bronte (1820-1849)

TERNAL Power, of earth and air! Unseen, yet seen in all around, Remote, but dwelling everywhere, Though silent, heard in every sound; If e'er thine ear in mercy bent, When wretched mortals cried to Thee, And if, indeed, Thy Son was sent, To save lost sinners such as me: Then hear me now, while kneeling here, I lift to thee my heart and eye, And all my soul ascends in prayer, OH, GIVE ME--GIVE ME FAITH! I cry. Without some glimmering in my heart, I could not raise this fervent prayer; But, oh! a stronger light impart, And in Thy mercy fix it there. While Faith is with me, I am blest; It turns my darkest night to day; But while I clasp it to my breast, I often feel it slide away. Then, cold and dark, my spirit sinks, To see my light of life depart; And every fiend of Hell, methinks, Enjoys the anguish of my heart. What shall I do, if all my love, My hopes, my toil, are cast away, And if there be no God above, To hear and bless me when I pray? If this be vain delusion all, If death be an eternal sleep, And none can hear my secret call, Or see the silent tears I weep! Oh, help me, God! For thou alone Canst my distracted soul relieve; Forsake it not: it is thine own, Though weak, yet longing to believe. Oh, drive these cruel doubts away; And make me know, that Thou art God! A faith, that shines by night and day, Will lighten every earthly load. If I believe that Jesus died, And waking, rose to reign above; Then surely Sorrow, Sin, and Pride, Must yield to Peace, and Hope, and Love. And all the blessed words He said Will strength and holy joy impart: A shield of safety o'er my head, A spring of comfort in my heart.

Until Everyone Hears

Operation Birthday: Days 12 and 13

Operation Birthday: Day 11

Operation Birthday: Day 10

Operation Birthday: Day 9 (aka the actual birthday)

Operation Birthday: Day 8 (a day late and a $ short)

Operation Birthday: Day 7

Operation Birthday: Day 6

Psalm 97:9-11

Operation Birthday: Day 5

Operation Birthday: Day 4

1 Peter 3:2-4

Operation Birthday: Day 3

Operation Birthday: Day 2

Operation Birthday - Day 1

What like you blend?

Commando

Barbie

My Misguided Prayer List

Everyone needs a cheerleader

How to be a big brother...

I ain't got rhythm...

Daniel

Luke 9

1 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. 2 He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

Advice

I missed my chance...

Genesis 15:6And Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith.

Can I pass for your sister?

What are you doing for others?

The Doubter's Prayer

¹ Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. ² He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.

Genesis 15:6
And Abram believed the LORD, and the LORD counted him as righteous because of his faith.