Here are some census numbers from census.gov that begin to paint a picture of rural life in America. Rural areas in this country cover about 97 percent of the land. A little over 19 percent of the population (60 Million) live on this land. A significantly higher percentage of families
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I have experienced the goodness of God. My husband and I married eight years ago this summer. There is much that could be said about our first six years of marriage and where we have been. But, that’s a story for another day, so, I’ll fast forward to the weekend
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The Center of Hope first opened its doors in 1985 in a rented room next to a laundry mat in downtown Livingston to respond to the physical and spiritual needs of low-income families in Polk County. A significant reason for starting the mission was that several churches in the area
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I am happy to share with you that Dr. Keith Loomans was my mentor and friend. I first met Keith as a member of the review committee when I was hired into church work, and he acted as my part-time boss and advisor for a number of years. For those
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I sat with a man I’ll call Diego at a recent gathering of a newly launched church. The church is gathering at a local rehab center. Residents join with people from around the community for worship, conversation, relationship building, prayer and fun. The rehab center residents invite family and staff
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Fifty years ago, a rural school district in south Texas ran into a predicament. One of the students lived in such a remote area, no one wanted to drive the school bus all the way out to his home to pick him up or drop him off. The student’s name
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Life in cities can be very complex and simple at the same time. The convenience of having all that you need readily available for you within a walking distance, if you can afford it, makes life in the city simple. However, the noise, the hustle and bustle of living in
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I’m all about being an historic Lutheran. Contemporary additives have never been my cup of tea. But wait! Before you get ready to reply vociferously in the comment box, let me explain. I’m not referring to worship style, church architecture, or how people dress. I’m talking about new attitudes that
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A sentiment that surfaces in the church every now and then is that mission outreach and evangelistic efforts are not necessary. The reasoning goes: God has predestined people to salvation; He will convert whom He will convert; all we need to do is wait for the elect to become part
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If you have never witnessed the impact a Christ-centered 12-step program can have on an individual, it is truly a humbling experience. Vicar Adam Meyer got involved serving in a Recovery Ministry at the Austin Stone early in 2016 and was amazed to witness as people began to encounter God
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