By Valerie Minard For some, prayer may not play a big part in their life until a life-threatening situation arises. That was certainly borne out recently when hurricanes Harvey and Irma struck the mainland United States. There were millions of prayer requests on Google. But is prayer just a shot in the dark or […]
Does age really matter?
By Valerie Minard Tennis player Venus Williams gets it all the time. Questions about her age. Although the 37-year- old is ranked ninth in the world and is having her best season in years, reporters always question her age, as if she has exceeded her shelf life as a tennis player and her next game […]
Feeling a void on Father’s Day? There is an answer!
By Valerie Minard With Father’s Day almost here, many of us are reminded of all the wonderful ways fathers have strengthened and supported their families. But for more than 20 million children living in the US without the physical presence of a father, Father’s Day can be a difficult time. Add to that the millions […]
At annual meeting, Christian Scientists see “new spirit” emerging in society
By: Kevin Ness Dateline: June 5, 2017 Boston, MA — In today’s culture of political divisions and religious strife, Christian Scientists spoke at their church’s annual meeting of “a new spirit” emerging, which is calling forth the best in people across denominational and national lines. In an interview, the chair of the denomination’s board of […]
Celebrating God as Mother on Mother’s Day
Waking up one morning during a very demanding time in my life, one of my first thoughts was, “I wish I had a mother!” Although I have two children of my own, I yearned for the comfort of a close mother-daughter relationship — with me as the daughter. Not only did I yearn to be comforted, but […]
Women’s History Month: Celebrates Mary Baker Eddy
By Valerie Minard Women’s History month commemorates the achievements of remarkable women who have made a difference in American history. Most of us may be familiar with such notables as Harriet Tubman, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, or Clara Barton. But, if they were here today, they may have nominated one of their contemporaries, […]
How does one pray about financial problems?
By Valerie Minard How does one pray about financial problems? Is it ethical to pray for material gain? The Bible tells us, “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” (1) Yet the Bible is full of examples of God meeting the needs of those who prayed to Him. Perhaps the […]
Is church relevant?
By Valerie Minard While I was picking up my dry cleaning, I got into a conversation with the attendant about New Year’s resolutions. When she started to share her goal, I expected her to say something standard like, “I want to lose weight” or “exercise more.” But much to my surprise, top on her list […]
A new year, a new you!
By Valerie Minard Each year thousands of people make New Year’s resolutions to improve their lives. Whether it’s to lose weight, get a better job, or do something about a relationship, it seems like the New Year causes us to be introspective—perhaps revealing a discontent with how things currently are and a desire for how […]
Are you a Thanksgiver?
By Valerie Minard Okay, I know that Thanksgiving in the United States is just around the corner. But, it got me thinking about the holiday and what it means — how I could be more grateful during the rest of the year. How I could be a more consistent thanksgiver. Studies show the benefits of gratitude include […]