Greensboro Daily Photo

Moravia Moravian Church of Oak Ridge

 

Last week, in preparing a post about the First Moravian Church of Greensboro, we were searching for more Moravian history in the Greensboro area. In searching, we were actually directed to the Greensboro Daily Photo post (4/3/22) about the Moravia Moravian Church in Oak Ridge (see HERE). Moravia Moravian, located at 2920 Oak Ridge Road, was started by Jennie Donnell, who had been a Methodist, but adopted her husband's faith upon marrying Robin Kerner in the late 1800s. The original church was a wooden structure. In 1964, a brick church was constructed to replace the wooden one and held its first service on Christmas Eve. The property has an ample yard with a play area for children, a covered picnic shelter, a cemetery and a new columbarium. 

Since last year's photo featured the exterior, we thought we'd share an interior view of the church. The stained glass windows add great visual interest. We wanted to feature the Moravians again because this Friday and Saturday are the big Candle Tea days for the Moravian Church at 304 South Elam Avenue. This tea has been a Greensboro tradition since 1962. There will be music in the sanctuary, a putz, arts and crafts, and plenty of people to answer any questions you may have. See the schedule HERE. 

Happy Sunday!

First Moravian Church of Greensboro

This past week was the birthday of the Moravian Church in North Carolina. In 1752, the Moravians purchased 99,000 acres in North Carolina which would become Forsyth County and Bethabraba. Bethabraba was founded November 17, 1753. A Moravian church was first established in Greensboro on October 5, 1908. The above photo features the First Moravian Church Greensboro on Elam Avenue. Initially, the congregation met on Lee Street (now Gate City Boulevard).  The congregation moved to Elam in 1937 in a facility they called "the hut".  According to the cornerstone on the above building, the first church erected on this site was in 1948, and the building you see above was erected in 1984.

We are entering the season when the Moravian church will hold all of their Christmas events, most of which are well attended by the Greensboro community at large. The candlelight tea, the displaying of the putz, and the holiday market will be Friday, December 1st and Saturday, December 2nd. If you haven't experienced these events, we urge you to do to. See more, HERE.

Happy Sunday!

Christ's Restoration Assembly

Christ's Restoration Assembly is location up on a hill at 1483 Alamance Church Road, just south of the City of Greensboro and down the road from the mega-church, Mt. Zion Baptist. This little church evokes a feeling of tradition. It is beautiful in its simplicity. To the right of the building is an old, black walnut tree. Black walnut trees are said to mature slowly and can live more than 250 years. Their root system is deep and wide. The wood is a valued hardwood. The tree has already dropped its leaves and there are black walnuts all over the ground. Hopefully, someone will gather them after church today and make a black walnut cake. Surely, there is someone in the congregation who could use one. 

As you can see from the sign, services at Christ's Restoration Assembly are at 11:00 am on Sundays. Head on over this morning if you are looking for a church in the southeast end of Guilford County. May this little church be as steady and long-lasting as that walnut tree beside it. We don't think we've featured it before. We always love to find churches that are new to us and in 15 years of Spiritual Sundays on Greensboro Daily Photo, it is nice to know we still haven't run out of houses of worship to feature.

Happy Sunday!

Remembering the Saints

Christ Lutheran Church on Lawndale is having a "Remembering the Saints" event. As you drive by, on the southeast corner of Lawndale Drive and Pisgah Church Road, you see all of these crosses. They represent "Saints" from the history of the church. Wednesday, November is "All Saints Day". There is also a cross for Martin Luther, one for fallen fire fighters and fallen police. We don't know how long it will remain up, but, if you get a chance, please drive by. It is an impressive sight. Christ Lutheran opened 18 March 1959, at a time when this location would have seemed a far piece from downtown Greensboro. This display must have taken a long time to prepare. Someone worked really hard to keep the rows straight!

Happy Sunday!

It's Pumpkin Time at Mount Pisgah Church

It's pumpkin time at Mount Pisgah Church. The youth group's annual fundraiser is well under way. The above photo was taken last night on the front lawn of the church at 2600 Pisgah Church Road. The pumpkins are so nicely organized by size and price. Little children run through here selecting pumpkins. This is how learning to make decisions begins. Sometimes parents cringe at a child's choice; yet, this is how they learn. 

In addition to the pumpkin patch, the annual Trunk or treat will happen on Sunday, October 29th at 5:00 pm. Dressing in a costume is encouraged but optional. For those who want to attend a worship service, the traditional service is held in the sanctuary at 8:30 am and also at 11:00 am. For those who want a more modern service, praise and worship is in the new fellowship center at 10:45. While the church is on a busy intersection, at Battleground Avenue, once it is night, from the pumpkin patch, it is as if  you are on a country road, remotely located. The church got its start in 1845, before the Civil War and thirty seven years after Greensboro was established as a city. Mount Pisgah is about four miles north of Greensboro. They had a big change this year. On June 26, 2023, they voted to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church and to affiliate with the Global Methodist Church; hence, the new name, Mount Pisgah Church.

Happy Sunday!

Heaven on Earth

The Qur'an describes paradise "as vast as the heavens and earth." (Q.3:133). There is no consensus on heaven in Judaism; emphasis is on doing good deeds while alive. In Christianity, heaven is the community or place one goes for those who are committed to Christ. There are many other ideas and interpretations of heaven and the afterlife.

The above photo is the sky reflected in a water element on at the Greensboro Country Club's Farm Course golf course. It evokes a sense of calmness, beauty, and peace; a feeling most of us strive for while on earth. This has been a jarring week of news. May we focus on our common humanity, being good people, and doing what we can to ensure everyone has a good quality of life while on this earth. Here's to being good Samaritans; charitable, helpful people while on earth (Luke 10:33). We'll be back next Sunday with a house of worship.

Happy Sunday!

Happy Sunday!

RESET Ministry Center

Reset Ministry Center is located just southwest of the Bennett College campus, at 455 Gorrell Street. It is a dynamic congregation that incorporates lots of music into their ministry. They meet on Sundays at 3pm and Wednesdays at 7pm with Pastor and Lady Robertson leading the worshiping. Following a current trend, there is no hint of affiliation of a specific denomination.

The front view is deceptively small. The building is long, extending to the back of the lot and amounting to 4,860 square feet. The cinder block building was built in 1950.  With its location beside Bennett College and just down the street from Magnolia Manor and Southside, RESET is in a very dynamic part of town. We're not sure when they opened. With only a banner sign and not a marquee, it is likely newly established. Based on the energy and smiles of the congregation's 4th Sunday selfies, we're betting the congregation will continue to grow.

Happy Sunday, everyone!

New Cedar Grove Baptist Church, 1114 Morris Street

Today's photo for Spiritual Sunday is of the New Cedar Grove Baptist Church at 1114 Morris Street, where Pastor Thurman Highsmith, Jr. officiates there. When we were there last Sunday, church was already over, but the neighborhood was lively. On High Street, just east of Highway 29 and south of Gate City Boulevard, children were enjoying an after-church birthday party with a bounce and other inflatables. It is so special seeing communities, in this case, the Asheboro neighborhood,  fellowshipping together. 

There is a vacant house across from Cedar Grove Baptist. It would be a good investment for anybody willing to go in and get it fixed up. That part of Greensboro is a place where you can still buy a home at a reasonable price and the neighborhood is conveniently located. Mrs. Hattie Mae Walker Black died at the age of 88 in 1993, 30 years ago. Her funeral was held at New Cedar Grove Baptist. At the time, Mrs. Black lived at 2222 East Lee Street, back before it was renamed Gate City Boulevard. We couldn't find anything online about this church, other than this obituary. Every church deserves a member-historian to document church history.

Well, it is the first day of October, which begins the final quarter of 2023. Before you know it, we will be closing out the year. On another note, today is "Art in The Arboretum" in the Arboretum from 12:00 noon- 5:00 p.m. This will be a fantastic, not-to-be-missed event.

Happy Sunday!

Carina Cole, Manager of Hannah's Bridge

Carina Cole is the manager of Hannah's Bridge, a thrift shop with clothing for women, children, and men. We had a lovely conversation with Ms. Carina yesterday at the Grove Street location in Glenwood, which is actually Hannah's Bridge, Too. Hannah's Bridge (One) is in the Lawndale Plaza in Irving Park. The banner behind her explains the mission of Hannah's Bridge and their addition recovery program, Hannah's Haven. Testimonials on the wall in the store are from several young women who have seen their life turn around with help through Hannah's Haven. The program and the thrift shop are affiliated with Grace Community Church on West Gate City Boulevard, not too far from the Glenwood neighborhood.

The store is so beautiful. It is clean, spotless, and looks brand new, as do the clothes. Ms. Carina explained that they wanted to make sure their Glenwood location was as nice as the Lawndale one. The public schools in the Glenwood area are Title 1 schools and Hannah's Bridge does what they can to help the local community. As an example, this Saturday (September 30th), at the Glenwood location from 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, all clothing and shoes will be sold for $1. If you know someone who needs clothing, please consider taking them to get a new outfit. Alternatively, consider stopping by and leaving a financial donation. They are a great cause. The addiction recovery program is Christ-based and for those who are ready for help, this is a great community resource.

The not-for-profit program was started by Bonnie Harris in 2003; the name Hannah came to her in a dream. When she checked the Bible, she learned that Hannah was a barren woman who cried out to the Lord and then gave birth (1 Samuel 1:19). "Haven" comes from the notion that that a haven is a safe place, and the "bridge" is the pathway to the haven.

Happy Sunday!

 

Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church: West Market Street View

Our Lady of Grace (OLG)  is a Roman Catholic Church in the Sunset Hills neighborhood of Greensboro. According to their website, they are a welcoming community that helps members have a close relationship with Christ through prayer, the sacraments, and charitable service. Located at 2203 West Market Street, the church is highly visible from the road.  The church was erected as a memorial to Ethel Clay Price by her husband. She was a devout Catholic. This year is the 70th anniversary of the Parrish.

The architecture of the church resembles Our Lady of Refuge in Brooklyn, New York. There is a really nice Wikipedia entry about the church (see HERE). The above photo shows people hurrying to get to the service. How nice there is a sidewalk in front of the church. OLG is as beautiful on the inside as it is on the outside.

Happy Sunday!

Faithstep Ministries Church

Faithstep Ministries is located at 309 West Gate City Boulevard, very near the Salvation Army Thrift Store. This church is in a small strip mall and near the downtown greenway. As you can see from the above photo, it is a small sanctuary, but is well cared for. It is evident from the interior that music is an important part of the ministry. They don't have a website, so it is hard to find out much about them. They have a saying on the outside of the building, "Stepping Out With Faith in Christ". The sanctuary was quiet yesterday, but we're betting it is full of enthusiasm and praise today.

Happy Sunday!

Faith Walk Baptist Church Is For Sale

About a month ago, we featured Faith Walk Baptist Church at 1305 Rankin Mill Road, out near Keeley Park. As it turns out, when we drove past last Sunday afternoon for the MUSEP concert, the above van was gone and we saw a for sale sign. The church is being sold. It is a very simple building that could be converted into just about anything, easily. The property is a prime piece of land in a part of the county that is changing before our eyes.

As we drive to MUSEP this evening at Barber Park, who knows what we will see or what will have changed. SunQueen Kelsey and the Soular Flares will be playing tomorrow evening. Their music is about self-love. As we consider our spirituality, our journey is a faith walk and it is more likely to be positive if we practice self love. Grad a friend and head on out to MUSEP this evening. In the meantime, if you have an idea for a former church property, there is one waiting for you.

Happy Sunday!

First Lutheran Church

It has been about five years since we featured the First Lutheran Church of Greensboro; so, we stopped by yesterday afternoon to see if there were any changes. There don't seem to have been any changes to the structure; however, there are some new benches installed in a garden area just behind where we stood to take this photo. Also, we'd forgotten just how well the grounds are maintained. From hydrangeas to costa to mature trees, the church is a lush haven on Friendly Avenue near Holden Road. The original First Lutheran Church was located at 307 Ashe Street and the architect was Henry E. Bonitz. It was constructed in 1910-1911 and, unfortunately, is no longer standing. Thanks to local historian Gayle Fripp, we know the architect of the first First Lutheran Church. However, an online search did not yield results for the architect of the above iteration of the church.

As you can see from the photo, this structure is has noteworthy, even unique, architecture  and is literally solid as a rock. The triangle/trinity theme is ever apparent. The diamonds that flank the main part of the building provide a way to enter the building on the ground floor. The stonework is beautiful as is the sanctuary. This church was rather quiet on Saturday afternoon However, on Sundays and during the weekdays people are constantly coming and going, either to worship or to participate in one of the many groups that meet here. We hope to get detains about the architect and architecture. 

Have a great Sunday!

 

See the website of the church HERE.

Guilford College on a Quiet Sunday Morning

Guilford College was founded by the Religious Society of Friends (also known as Quakers)  in 1837. This 340 acre campus, once remotely located west of Greensboro, is now part of the suburbs of the city. Seeing the  publicity lately about its the involvement in the Underground Railroad, we are reminded of what a peaceful sanctuary this lovely place is. Since 1990, Friends Center has been a program on campus that aims to support and nurture the Quaker-inspired and multi-faith activities. Friends Center is located in the Alumni House. 

Soon, students will be arriving on campus for fall semester. Especially for students who are struggling being away from home for the first time, or students in general who are feeling lonely, a place like Friends Center can make all the difference in helping students adjust to campus life. If you are looking for a way to do some good, consider donating or being involved in a program like this one or any such program at a house of worship. In the meantime, if you just need a quiet place to walk and appreciate the beauty of nature, the Guilford College Campus is a great place to start.  The Underground Railroad Tree, a tulip popular that dates to the 1700s, is such a spiritual place and a great addition to any campus walk. 

Have a great Sunday!

Briggs Memorial Church

Briggs Memorial Church is one of those great finds when we were driving through the countryside in Guilford County. It is located at 1344 Rankin Mill Road in McLeansville. The eastern end of the county is full of churches; actually, the whole county has an abundance of churches. Sunday school is at 10:00 am and preaching starts  at 11:00. People of all ages are encouraged to attend this church. According to the cornerstone, the church was first built in 1954 and relocated to here in 1971. We haven't been able to find out the back story about the relocation, but we're sure it is interesting. It is a beautiful church, built on a large lot. We hope to see it inside someday.

Happy Sunday!

Love Is All Around

Sometimes, people just put you in a good mood. The above photo was taken a few weeks ago in the 300 block of South Elm Street. To the right, you see members of the Jehovah Witness congregation ready to talk to anyone who wants to learn more about their faith or attend a service in a Kingdom Hall.

To the left a you see a downtown shopper with a canine companion. Just seeing the two of them bouncing up Elm Street, exuding great joy,  put all of us in a great mood. It is a 21st century photo with the optimistic, "feel good" vibe of the Mary Tyler Moore Show from the 1970s. Today is Saturday and we suggest you head downtown on Elm Street, not just to seek joy but to bring some joy to those around you.

Happy Saturday!

Faith Walk Baptist Church

We have found yet another church in Guilford County that we have not yet features over fifteen years of Sundays. Faith Walk Baptist Church is one of those humble, unadorned country church with a white exterior and one cross at the entrance. It is narrow and long with plenty of parking. As far as we can tell, they are still an active church, although we couldn't find an active website or Facebook page. There is a van parked on site that indicates they will pick up people interested in attending church.

According to signage on site, the Pastor and Founder is Reverend Dennis White and the First Lady is Wanda White. It is located at 1305 Rankin Mill Road in Greensboro/Mcleansville, right down from Keely Park. There is a cemetery right beside the church with many members of the Rankin, which is a popular name in the Greensboro area with a street and school named Rankin. These country churches hold so much history of a region. We hope someone has documented it.

Happy Sunday!

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church

Trinity Episcopal Church is getting some work done this summer. It looks like that beautiful slate roof is getting some repairs. It is absolutely breathtaking and matches the stone facade perfectly. It is located in the historic district of Fisher Park. Two weeks ago, when we helped a delegate from France visiting a couple of weeks ago. We drove them past Holy Trinity because they could also see the First Presbyterian Church and St. Benedict Catholic Church. They were amazed that all of these churches were right together. Truly this trinity of churches clustered together show the diversity of Greensboro's Christians. And, West Market Street United Methodist Church and First Baptist are right down the street.

On the day we were at Trinity Episcopal taking photos, there was a camping tent put up beside the labyrinth. Churches are dynamic places now. They do so much for so many. If you are looking for a great religious community, head to the service at Trinity today. All are welcome at Trinity and Sunday services are at 8:30 and 10:30 am. Even if you don't get to the service, stop by, walk the labyrinth and check on the progress of the repairs.

Happy Sunday!

First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro

The First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro is one of our city's most recognizable churches. This brick building, in gothic revival style architecture, is actually the fourth building of the Presbyterian Church. It was built in 1927 and replacing the building at 130 Summit Avenue that  today houses the Greensboro History Museum.  The First Presbyterian Church of Greensboro was founded in 1824. The architect was Hobart Upjohn and the building is said to resemble the Cathedral of Albi in Albi, France. The interior is equally beautiful, with the  stained glass rose window being especially breathtaking. Currently, the First Presbyterian has about 2,700 members.

When we recently volunteered with a delegation from France, we pointed out this church, mentioning that it was one of our most European looking churches. They were very impressed with all of the churches condensed into that part of town; specifically St. Benedict's Catholic, Holy Trinity Episcopal, and First Presbyterian with First Baptist and West Market Street UMC not far. Each has a distinct style of architecture. Remember, for the month of July, there is only one service, at 10:00 a.m. If you make it downtown for a service today, be sure to join the congregation for lemonade on the lawn after the service.

Happy Sunday!

Higher Ground Ministries

Higher Ground Ministries is located at 107 West Whittington Street, just south of Gate City Boulevard and between Eugene and Elm Street. The one-story church was built in 1989 and the lot size is one and a half acres. It is located on the east end of the Warnersville neighborhood. Named for Pennsylvania Quaker Yardley Warner, Warnersville was recognized as Greensboro's first Heritage Community in 2015. It was the first planned African American community in the are. Mr. Warner took 35 acres of land and divided it into plots that were available to "freedmen."*.

If loop.net is correct, this Higher Ground property is currently for sale for $825,000  (see HERE). According to their website, "Higher Ground provides support and encouragement not only to those whose lives have been torn apart by addictive behaviors, but to those who are living with the effects of someone else’s addiction or any life controlling issue." Higher Ground has more than one location in Greensboro. Perhaps this location has relocated. At any rate, this is a prime piece of property located close to downtown. If a church is looking to expand, here is one that ready and waiting. As is, that roofline definitely says "church".  It will be interesting to see what the site becomes.

Happy Sunday!

*reference and more information HERE.

 

First Moravian Church- Vacation Bible School

School is out for the summer and tis the season of Vacation Bible School. The above photo is of the First Moravian Church of Greensboro (304 South Elam Avenue) with the signage on their front lawn advertising their Vacation Bible School. Crafts, music, dinner, what could be more appealing to provide an option for children to build summer memories with their spiritual home. If you are interested, you'd need to do something TODAY, because it starts tomorrow- at least based on what we see on the website. The theme this year is "Going Global: Where in the World Are Moravians?" Participants will learn the culture and customs of Moravians around the world. To be sure, follow the QR code on the banner in front of the church.

If you are not Moravian, not to worry, there are summer VBS programs for all denominations. If you want to be Moravian, this church is a fabulous place to visit.

Happy Sunday!

Chabad Community Center

The Scott D. Kaplan Chabad Community Center is located at 5203 West Friendly Avenue. The structure, originally built as a single family house in 1939, is on one acre. It sits back from the highway and the front yard is well manicured and peaceful. From what we can gather online, this community center was established to serve the needs of the Greensboro Jewry. From activities related to the high holy days to daily study opportunities, they seem to remain busy. In addition to the house, there is a large event tent on the property. Chabad Rabbi Plotkin, who hails from Montreal, Canada, is the spiritual leader of this center. Education is the cornerstone of Rabbi Plotkin's mission (reference and more HERE). Formerly, he taught at the American Hebrew Academy. Also, he teaches classes to those who want to learn more about the Talmudic way.

Chabad Hasidic philosophy focuses on religious and spiritual concepts from a Jewish perspective. The Jewish community of Greensboro has contributed in so many ways to our city's history and resources. It is nice to have an organization committed to outreach, educational studies, philanthropy, and spirituality for our dynamic, Jewish community members. 

Happy Sunday;  while not the Sabbath for the Jewish community, traditionally the day we post something spiritual. For our readers affiliated with Chabad, we invite you to educate us!

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church

In walking and driving around weekend, we've noticed how different some things look by day and by night. The above photo is of St. Paul's Catholic Church at the corner of Horse Pen Creek and New Garden Road.  That dramatic, triangular roof is a standout regardless of time of day. However, the lighting on the church at night accentuates the shape. Also, the the small pond in front of the church, adds yet another element. Last night, it was cool (in the mid- 50s) and breezy, adding a blur to the bottom third of the photo. However, the reflection serves to emphasis the greenery surrounding the church, something not nearly as noticeable by day. Also, St. Paul's has lined the parking lot with flags in preparation for Memorial Day tomorrow. None of this would have been noticeable had we not taken that closer look we suggested yesterday. 

St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church was dedicated in 1976  to meet the needs of the growing Catholic community in Greensboro, especially in the northwest part of town. However, the above sanctuary was built and dedicated in 1993, again to accommodate growth in membership. On the church website, the last membership statistic they give is for 1998, a time when there were 1,900 families (over 5,000 members). Not visible in the above photo is the Parish Life Center, built in the early 2000s, adding space to provide a place for classrooms, a gymnasium, and a great space for special events like their ever-popular kids' consignment sale. 

Other Catholic Churches in Greensboro include: St. Benedict, Our Lady of Grace, St. Mary's, St. Pius, and St. Peter Yu Korean Catholic. According to this website, 49.6% of the people of Greensboro are religious and 3.8% of Greensboro's residents are Catholic. In preparing this post, we learned that Greensboro ranks 4th in churches per capita in the United States, making it easy for us to find a house of worship to post here on Sundays!

Happy Sunday! 

Church of the Covenant... Psalm 100:4

Today's Bible verse is from Psalm (100:4) and it is posted at the entryway to the Church of the Covenant on South Mendenhall Street. We saw it recently when attending a concert there. Don't you wonder how it is that some scripture gets quoted, or inscribed for all to see? The Book of Psalms was used in Ancient Israel and a key book for Jews and Christians alike. In searching the meaning online, it appears to reminds believers to go to God with thanks and to give thanks under any circumstance. On the evening we were at the church, for a short while we were the only ones in the entrance area and this door looked so inviting. We didn't, however, open it.

Do you have a favorite verse? What are some of your favorite religious quotes and  inspiration seen around Greensboro, published for all to see?

Happy Sunday!

Bruce Molsky performs Presbyterian Church of the Covenant

The Presbyterian Church of the Covenant is located at 501 South Mendenhall Street. Designed by Greensboro Architect. Harry Barton, the Church of the Covenant was built in 1914 to replace a church that was built in 1906. Have you ever noticed that it has symmetrical facades on Walker Avenue and Mendenhall Street? The above photo features the sanctuary. It is built on the corner of the lot and the shape actually adds to the acoustics of the space. The above photo was taken from the balcony this past Friday when Bruce Molsky was performing.

Bruce teaches in the American Roots Program at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA and he is one talented musician. He plays guitar, banjo, and fiddle. His playing style is influenced by Tommy Jarrell. When Bruce plays the fiddle and sings at the same time, it is hard to distinguish sometimes if he is singing or if the violin is playing a drone note. Bruce is very personable and had just the right amount of telling the back story to a tune or song and playing. Bruce also held a fiddle and banjo workshop on Saturday, in the above photo. If you ever get a chance to pray, meditate, or hear a concert in the Church of the Covenant, you should take advantage of it. You would be in for a treat.

Happy Sunday!

Hare Krishna Chariot

The International Society for Krishna Consciousness was founded in the mid-1960s in New York City.* The Hare Krishna movement is a branch of Hinduism. The above photo is of a religious chariot, used in Ratha Yatra public processions, which are expressions of love for Lord Jagannath. Imagine our surprise when a few weeks ago, we saw the chariot assembled on Church Street near Wendover Avenue. Two devotees had were busy making sure everything was in good order before shipping the chariot out on loan for Ratha Yatras to Chicago. It is loaned out for Hard Krishna events all over the United States. Between events, the chariot resides in Greensboro. It can be disassembled for storage.

On the top left of the chariot is Jackson Mayshark who became a Hare Krishna in 1972 while living in California. Mr. Mayshark lives in Greensboro, where he owns and manages Ambleside Art Gallery on South Elm Street. He had an earlier iteration of a chariot, but sold it after he refined design specification and purchased the above model. Mr. Mayshark's  friend ("brother") Al Fitch is on the ladder. He is a practicing Krishna, from Ohio and will borrow the chariot, soon for an event in the Ohio Valley.

There are three Krishna Temples in North Carolina: One in Stokes County. one in Hillsborough, and one in Apex. The day we happened upon the chariot on Church Street, Mr. Mayshark and Mr. Fitch were very kind to answer questions at great length about the religion, as well as details about the chariot. We hope to learn more about the community in the Piedmont area of Greensboro. Mr. Mayshark has offered to take us to take us to a service and we hope to do so. There is so much depth and texture to the people of Greensboro. Greensboro Daily Photo helps us take the time to learn more about the people of our great community.

Happy Sunday!

 

* read more about the Hare Krishna movement and history HERE.

Earth Day 2023 at Congregational Church of Christ

Did you have a nice Earth Day, yesterday? Guess what? Today, at Congregational Church of Christ they are holding an Earth Day Festival. It will be held to day from 12-3pm,  in the Refugium in front of the church. The church is located at 400 West Radiance Drive. We attended last year and it was a great job to learn more about native plants, and we even got to take some home. There will be food, music, exhibits, and more. According to their website, there will be over 15 displays, demonstrations, activities for children, plants for sale and give away, and more. Food from Reto's Kitchen and Maxie B's will be on a donation basis. This church is conveniently located just off of Friendly Avenue and Josephine Boyd. 

While, technically everyday is Earth Day, is is nice to take a day to be extra appreciative of the amazing balance in nature and to learn what we can do to help decrease our carbon footprint and environmental impact. If you are looking for an open-minded, liberal church, this may be just the church for you.

Happy Sunday!

Congregational United Church of Christ: Solar Panels

According to church records, 145  United Church of Christ churches have solar panels. The Congregational United Church of Christ in Greensboro is one such example. It is one of eight UCC churches in North Carolina with solar panels. We noticed the panels driving along Josephine Boyd near Friendly Avenue.  The actual location is Radiance Drive.

One of the UCC solar churches reported liking the lower energy costs and  also sees the initiative as "eco-evangelism" * It is seen as "creation-justice"  work. The solar panels are located on the east side of the church, capturing the energy from the morning sun. This church also has a habitat refugium in the front yard for plants, birds, butterflies, and other pollinators. The church is committed to using native plants in their habitat refugium. This seems like a church that really makes an effort to welcome people  of all backgrounds, and they make an effort to teach people how to live sustainably.

Happy Sunday!

 

* reference and more information HERE.

Happy Easter 2023

Happy Easter! The above photo was taken at Morehead United Methodist Church on Horse Pen Creek Road. It was taken on Good Friday, a day in Greensboro that was extremely gloomy and overcast. For Christians, the day, overcast weather would seem appropriate, given Friday was the day Christ was crucified. The fact that it was crucifixion day is the reason the cloth, draped on the cross, is black. As a liturgical color, black reminds us to pray for the soul of the departed*. Today, the cloth will be white. White is used on Christmas and Easter, symbolizing the birth and resurrection of Christ. 

Morehead Church has been working hard to prepare for Easter. Look at how perfect that turf is, and that new seating area is so inviting. The weather today is predicted to be sunny all day, which should make for an uplifting sense of joy and hope whether one is at church, at home, or somewhere in between. 

Happy Easter!

*more information about liturgical colors.

Palm Sunday, Minerva, and Mercy Hill

Today is Palm Sunday; for Christians, the day Christ entered into Jerusalem. It is the first day of Holy Week. So why does the above photo feature the Minerva Statue on the campus * of UNCG? Well, last week, we were walking across campus and noticed the apples are back. As tradition has it, since Minerva is the goddess of wisdom, justice, law, and victory, college students leave an apple, with one bite out,  at her base to bring them luck during exams. However, curiously, we noticed someone was placing Easter eggs at the base, too. We had to investigate.

As it turns out, college students (a few, off on the right edge of the photo, you can see a couple of them) were placing the plastic eggs in highly visible places. Inside was a piece of candy and a note advertising a church service geared towards college students. a service and a late night party at Mercy Hill Church, the northwest campus at 5330 Edgefield Road.  Stuffed in with a wrapped piece of candy, the message read, "Join us as we celebrate Easter with other college students across the Triad! We would love to see you there." The students felt like the Easter egg hunt would be more effective than just having an informational table. Let's hope the effort worked for them and that the students who are looking for Christian fellowship found their way to Mercy Hill. Mercy Hill has 5 campuses in Guilford County and services all this week, including a "Walk through" experience on Good Friday. See their schedule of events for the week HERE. There will be something to do almost every day this week. We're wondering how the students hiding the eggs in plain sight became affiliated with Mercy Hill and whether or not new students attended this week. 

Have a great week, and, if you are looking for a spiritual connection, this is a good week to find it.

Happy Palm Sunday!

* watch this short Youtube video about the Minerva statue. See HERE for the story of the sculptor of the Minerva statue, James Barnhill. 

Shalom! Jewish Festival at Temple Emanuel- Today

The above photo was taken at Temple Emanuel during Friday evening services. Temple Emanuel is a Reform Jewish Temple, located at 1129 Jefferson Road. Today, from 11:00am-5:00 pm, they will hold their annual Jewish Festival, now in the spring, instead of the fall. This community-wide event, celebrating Jewish life and culture, will be held rain or shine. There will be Jewish and Israeli food, temple tours, exhibits, music, dance, arts and crafts and more. There will be a kids zone as well as characters from Tanakh (what Christians refer to as the Old Testament). So, if you attend the festival, don't be surprised if you see Moses, Abraham, Rachel, and Noah walking around.  It is a good chance for the community to learn about Judaism and to celebrate a community that has done so much for Greensboro. 

Word has it that one of our favorite jewelry artists, Anette, will be there with jewelry  inspired by the people and symbols in Judaism. We are also looking forward to the Rabbi telling us about the symbolism in the 12 stained glass windows, as well as the meaning of the gold letters at the top of the sanctuary. The tents are in place, the food is ready, and Moses will be there to tell you just how he felt when God delivered the 10 commandments to him.

Happy Sunday!

Ramadan Mubarak at Nazareth Bread

Ramadan is the holiest holiday for Muslims. Ramadan literally means "the hot month", a month of worship, prayer, studying the Quran, and fasting. Practicing Musilims get up before sunrise, eat breakfast, pray, and abstain from from food and liquids all day until after a final prayer at sunset. Once the sun sets, they break the fast and eat a meal. The above photo is the evening buffet at Nazareth Bread, located at 4507 West Market Street.  Due to demand, this Middle Eastern eatery offers this buffet during Ramadan. after a day of praying, reflecting and abstaining, people are ready to enjoy a meal together. This delicious buffet, which appears to extend forever, is $21.00.

Based on the People Groups website, There are over 10,000 people in Greensboro whose religion is Islam, and this number continues to grow. If you have Muslim friends you can help them by being mindful that they aren't able to eat or drink during the day. They may not want to be around while you are eating a meal or having your coffee break. If you want a great meal, stop by Nazareth Bread tonight and partake in this buffet. People of all faith groups are are welcome.

Happy Saturday!

A Bit of A Nonconventional Church

A church is a public place made available for worship. Today's "church" is a display set up in the middle of the Antique Marketplace on Burnt Poplar Road. Master interior decorator and room stager, Lori Gray, often stages the displays at the entrance of Antique Marketplace. Sometimes she brings in items to use. Other times, she just walks around the antique mall and takes items for sale at the different vendors' booths and assembles them in the middle of the store. The above photo is a scene, a church, she staged recently. The more you look at the display, the more references you will see. A fan on the altar for hot days, before there was air conditioning, shine brightly reflecting the light from the lamps. There are crosses on the doors- probably 20 feet tall.  The trumpets represent the music in church. Ladies Sunday-go-to-church hats are on the chairs beside purses, and a collection plate. In the middle is a painting of the Last Supper. 

This display is so creative. Have you ever seen one quite like it in an antique mall. As we walked the aisles, passing by the display a few times, by the end, we really did want to sit, rest, and have a little silent meditation. A church is a public place made available for worship. So, technically, last Tuesday night, we went to church. However, we need to get back and drop a few dollars in the collection plate. Remember church, synagogue, temple, or mosque is not about the physical space as much as what we do there.

Happy Sunday!

St Marys Catholic

St. Mary's Catholic Church takes up almost a whole city block at the corner of Gorrell Street and Duke Street. The above photo is of the Parrish Center. It was built in 2003 and is located beside main sanctuary. The church sign on Gorrell Street is written in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, representative of the diversity within. St. Mary's has a very informative history posted online. Thanks to this digital history, we learned that St. Mary's Parish traces its origin in St. Benedict's Parish.  An outgrowth of St. Benedict's, St. Mary's was established in 1928 to serve the black residents of southeast Greensboro who had converted to Catholicism.  

Starting in the 1970s St. Mary's began serving refugees and immigrants from Africa and Southeast Asia. In the 1990s, many of the Latino immigrants  began worshiping there. Today, the congregation is comprised of people from twenty-one countries and, according to their website, from every continent except Australia and Antartica. St. Mary's is committed to helping those in need, many fleeing civil wars in their respective countries. While not a financially wealthy parish, St. Mary's is rich in love and doing God's work. 

Happy Sunday!

Original Methodist Church

As you can read on this sign, the original Methodist church was built here on South Elm Street in 1831, 33 years after Greensboro became a city. Today, it is located on West Market Street and known as West Market Street United Methodist Church. This monochrome, black and white photo, taken yesterday, emphasizes the lines and the fact that the trees still don't have leaves. If you look to the right of the trees and streetlamp on the right, at the end of the awning. you can see a pear tree that has already bloomed. Spring is a little early this year in Greensboro.

The other side of this historic marker is entitled, Former Methodist Cemetery, and reads: The original Methodist cemetery, west of Elm and south of Bragg streets, was used for public burials also. In 1916 the city purchased the land to extend Ashe Street, so the graves were moved. The church purchased plots in Green Hill Cemetery for 106 bodies unclaimed by family members. We're off to Green Hill to see if we can find the section with the unclaimed bodies. Do any of you know what part of the cemetery they are buried in? There is always something new to learn about Greensboro.

Happy Sunday!

College Park Baptist: Astro Dog Food Truck

College Park Baptist Church is located at the southwest corner of Walker Avenue and Josephine Boyd. This photo is of the food truck Astro Dog that is set up there Thursday-Sunday afternoons and evenings.. The photo was taken last night. This high visibility corner, right across the street from the westernmost side of UNCG, is the perfect spot to attract students, as well as people who just happen to be driving by. College Park Baptist has many outreach initiatives;while the food truck doesn't appear to be related to outreach, who knows. If people start walking or driving to the church to nourish their bodies, they just may head there to nourish the soul. College Park Baptist describes itself as progressive, diverse, ecumenical, and welcoming to everyone.

We interviewed people in line waiting for food and they said they really liked it and were return customers. There appears to be one menu item, Korean style corn dogs. You can get them sweet or savory; mild or spicy; or, with toppings like hot Cheetos, nacho cheese Doritos, and cool ranch Doritos. If you want something to drink, Mexican sodas (Jarritos & Mundet) and water are available. On nicer nights, people often sit in the parking lot and enjoy their dogs.

Church services at College Park Baptist are at 8:30 in the chapel; 9:45 Sunday school; and 10:45 in the chapel. Astro Dogs is open from 3:00 pm- 10:00 pm. You could start and end your day right here. Happy Sunday! 

Christ Is the Way

The "Christ is the Way" or "Jesucristo es el camino" bus belongs to Mr. Sinai Church/"Iglesia Monte Sinai." It is located at 4711-A  West Gate City Boulevard, just south of Groometown Road. It ia a Pentecostal Church. The brick building is a strip mall with another church beside it and some empty store fronts. The bus looks freshly painted with clear lettering.

On the front, the signage above the windshield just says JESUCRISTO. Likely, the bus brings to church for services. They meet on Saturday at 7:00 pm and Sunday at 10:00 am. They also have Tuesday and Thursday services at 7:00 pm. These start up churches often start out in humble spaces and grow into nice, stand-alone buildings. It was a lovely day full of sunshine yesterday and we only noticed the church because of the beautiful, freshly painted church. If you are driving past, it is impossible not to notice it.

Happy Sunday!

Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church

Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church is located at 3100 Creek Ridge Road, at the intersection with Four Seasons Boulevard. It is between Four Seasons Mall and Sedgefield, on the eastern edge of the Lamrocton neighborhood in Greensboro. Did you even know of this neighborhood? We didn't! It is amazing what one can learn from a good map.* If our source is correct, Lamrocton  is a diverse neighborhood of Danish, Sub-Saharan African, and Vietnamese residents. It also reports having many college students and same-sex couples. 

We drove past Mt. Tabor UMC serendipitously when we took exit 218A instead of B in south Greensboro. While the church doesn't appear to have a website, they do have a Facebook page. According to the cornerstone, the church was rebuilt by Rev. P.I. Wells in 1953, but is doesn't say when the original church was built. There is a fellowship building attached to the side of the church. It was added on in 1965. The church participates in community events like Crop Hunger Walk, and they also host their own events, like fish fries.  Behind the church is a cemetery. In Christian tradition, Mt. Tabor is the site of the transfiguration of Jesus. 

We hope Rev. Carson and his congregation have a great service today and that your Sunday is everything you hoped it would be.

 

*read more about Lamrocton, here. 

Friedens Tiny Chapel

If you read Greensboro Daily Photo last Sunday, you saw the post on Frieden Lutheran Church, located on Frieden Church Road in the eastern end of Guilford County. The congregation has owned the property and has had a church there since 1775. The church started out as one made out of hand-hewn logs and then built a brick church in 1879. The church burned in 1939, and another was built in its place. In the background, you can see the latest iteration of Frieden Lutheran (see also, HERE). 

The Wagoners, church members, used the logs from the original church for a smokehouse. When they dismantled the smokehouse, they gave the logs from the original church back to the church. In 1961, church member Roland Summers recruited the young adult Sunday school members to use the timbers to help build a tiny chapel that was a replica of the original church from the 1700s. You can see the tiny hand-hewn log chapel in the foreground. Inside are pews and an altar from the past. This is a church that takes its documentation seriously. You can learn more by going to the article we referenced. Also, we highly recommend your keeping records of any organizations with which you are affiliated.

Happy Sunday!

 

*Reference and more  history of the church can be found HERE.

Fridens Evangelical Lutheran Church

Friedens Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 6001 NC 61 in Gibsonville,  was organized in 1745, thirty one years before America was a country. The church was rebuilt in 1939 after a fire destroyed the original building. However, this church community is 278 years old this year. To put this into perspective, Luther began the Protestant movement in 1517 and Frieden Church was built in 1745, 228 years after the Protestant movement began. So, it is closer in years to the beginning of the Protestant movement than it is to the year 2023. This historic church is recorded as one of the oldest of its denomination in the south. The church, founded by German Lutheran immigrants heading west, even maintained church records in German until 1830.*

We stumbled on Friedens Lutheran while riding around the urban loop I-840 this weekend, getting off on Huffine Mill Road, and driving the backroads through Guilford County to Gibsonville. The  church is at the crossroads of NC-61 and Frieden Church Road. Frieden is derived from a German word that means peace and tranquility. Walking around the property of the church, the cemetery, and the small replica of the original church located across the street, indeed, brings a sense of peace and tranquility. While the eastern end of Guilford is changing,  this little slice of county make it feel like time is standing still. 

You can tell from the photo that the white columns at the entrance are a dominant feature. However, the stained glass windows are also very special. Have a great Sunday!

 

*reference and more information HERE.