Greensboro Daily Photo

Peace Festival at First Friends on Friendly Avenue

The weekend of September 23rd, the First Friends Meeting of Quakers on Friendly Avenue held a PEACE festival. There were art vendors, food trucks, and people sharing information about environmental causes. Most importantly, at the festival, there were people telling about their respective religions sharing prayers in different languages and from different belief systems.

The large, blue flag of the dove with an olive branch is the international sign of peace. In the biblical story of Noah and flood, the dove returns to the arc holding an olive branch. In 1949, Picasso made a poster for the World Peace Congress, incorporating the dove and olive branch. The association remains a symbol of peace today. The above photo, while a bit out of focus, shows a section of festival attendees enjoying the event.

If you are looking for something to do today, consider heading to the Arboretum for Art in the Arboretum. More then 50 artists will line the walkway from 12:00 - 5:00 pm. While not directly associated with peace, art does a way of bringing people together and, togetherness can foster peace.

Market Street Looking East

Today is Sunday morning and there are so many options for praying and being with a faith community. The above photo features Greensboro's main street leading to town, with the West Market Street United Methodist Church positioned on the left, right in the middle of the Lincoln Financial Building. While not always located in this same spot, the church does have a 175 year history in Greensboro, with the congregation dating back to the 1820's. Remember, Greensboro has only been a city 1808.

If you need someone to pray with, Geensboro has many options. As one example, the 2,000 members of West Market Street will welcome you with open arms! West Market UMC looks so small from the above vantage point, but the good deeds it does for the city are so great. Happy Sunday!

PEACE Festival @ First Friends Meeting

What could be more peaceful than nature? Well, today, from 12:30 pm - 2:00pm, First Friends Meeting at 2100 West Friendly Avenue will hold a PEACE Festival. To quote their website, "there will be food trucks, singing, dancing, creative arts projects, local artisans, adoptable puppies, and more." Speakers from many different faith groups will be there to give short presentations on their faith and to answer questions. 

The more people from different faith groups interact with each other, the more people realize how much we have in common. One of the goals of the PEACE festival  is to eliminate prejudices and racism. Another theme will be finding PEACE through care of the earth. If you are looking for something today, come out and find some PEACE, generate some PEACE. Today's peaceful photo was actually taken on Battleground Avenue. Here's to making sure that we keep the GREEN in Greensboro. Happy Sunday!

Cardinals on a Branch at CAN-NC/Bell House Center

 

Male cardinals have long been associated with being spiritual messengers. For many, the cardinal is the bridge between Earth and Spirit. Some believe they signal a visit from a deceased love one. For Catholics, cardinals are ecclesiastical leaders.  Regardless of one's religion or beliefs, seeing cardinals can be uplifting. How touching that, this weekend, the above cardinals are in an art show & sale directly behind Beacon Place, Greensboro's Hospice facility.

The mixed-media piece, Cardinals on a Branch, were hand carved by local artist Jennifer Nichols. Jennifer, who holds a BFA degree from UNCG, grew up in Winston-Salem watching her father carve Windsor chairs. Jennifer works full time at the Servant Center, part time as a teacher for the Creative Aging Network of North Carolina, and founder of Art Reach, an outreach program that provides art supplies to artists experiencing homelessness. People like Jennifer, who are committed to enhancing the lives of others, are what make Greensboro such a nice place to live. Stop by CAN-NC/Bell House Center at 2400 Summit Avenue today between 12 noon and 5pm to purchase this piece or other artwork.* Even if you don't need it, perhaps you know someone who would find great comfort in having this piece. If you are heading to Beacon Place to visit a friend or loved one, swing by this exhibit and give yourself a little time to experience some beautiful art.

* Jennifer's artist's statement and other information can be seen, here.

Folk Festival Preacher

This evangelist is at the North Carolina Folk Festival preaching the basic Christian redemption message.  Evoking a tradition that dates back to the first century, this man stood, for hours, sharing his message with those who were passing by. Many ignored him, like the young couple in the background. Others gave him a high five to signal their approval of the preacher's message.

The preacher was located between Greensboro two downtown parks, Center City and LeBauer on Davie street. Since he was there on Saturday night, it is highly likely that he will be in that spot on Sunday morning. Here's to a great final day to the folk festival. Let's hope, maybe even pray, for good weather. Happy Sunday; happy folk festival!

Faith Presbyterian Church

Faith Presbyterian Church is located in West Greensboro at the corner of Auburndale and W. Friendly Avenue. This photo was taken yesterday, a glorious day in Greensboro. The lawn had just been cut.  Today, the congregation is celebrating today as the last day of summer vacation for their members who will be going back to school tomorrow. This small, but dynamic congregation maintains a garden for Urban Ministries. They have a traditional Sunday service, a coffee hour, even a Swahili service.

As church congregations shrink around the globe, Faith Presbyterian works hard to adapt and do what they can to continue to be relevant and meaningful to their congregants. Happy last Sunday of summer vacation to the folks at Faith Presbyterian, and to the rest of Greensboro!

Church Signage

Remember when church signs were something that you had to brave the elements to change by hand. Rain, snow, sleet, or blazing sun, if a preacher wanted his spiritual food for thought, he had stand by the road and attach the letters by hand. Now, even some of Greensboro's oldest churches, like Mount Pisgah Methodist Church, at the northeast corner of Pisgah Church and Battleground, have digital signs that are programed remotely. Nor more black and white same-size, same-font lettering. The signs are now multi-color and can accommodate multiple messages: something spiritual, plus announcements and lists of events.

Before we know it, Mt. Pisgah's lovely green lawn will be full of pumpkins and gourds of all sizes, colors, and shapes. Likely, the dates of their great pumpkin patch will be announced on the digital sign soon, if it isn't already. 

Literally, what a SIGN of the times!

Youth For Christ

As local universities and public schools are gearing up for fall semester, so is Youth For Christ. YFC is a Christian movement that works with young people around the world. The main purpose of the organization is evangelizing with young people and to do missionary work. The YFC program was inspired by the work of Jack Wyrtzen in New York City in the 1940s. North Carolina's own Billy Graham was the first full-time evangelist for Youth For Christ International. Rev. Graham's involvement with the organization helped launch his career.*

The YFC organization, including the branch in Greensboro, works hard to provide activities for youth, reasons to gather, for spiritual reasons, above and beyond attending a traditional, Sunday service. The above house at 917 North Elm Street has been transformed into home base for the YFC organization in Greensboro. From the wasp-deterring, haint-blue porch ceiling to the Boston ferns flanking the stone stairs, and those comfy white rockers, the facility is comfortable and inviting.

*reference and more information, here.

Spirituality of Nature

Today's photo features a male American redstart, who was flitting around in the leaves in the Bog Garden off Hobbs Road. Since November 2017, volunteers have planted 1,427 native plants in the Bog Garden. The funding for the new plants has been provided by Greensboro Beautiful and also the Piedmont Bird Club. These native plants attract birds and other wildlife. The American redstart is a warbler that likes open wooded habitat with deciduous trees. They are active birds that seem to never stand still.

In Psalms XI, the soul is compared to a bird. "Flee as a bird to your mountain." This week, Greensboro lost Phil Segal III, who was the founder and owner of Havana Phil's Cigar Company. We featured his business yesterday, not knowing that he passed away on Wednesday. On Friday, David Tyler, a young college student who grew up is Greensboro, was buried. So, today's moment of spirituality is in memory of Phil and David. Life is short, precious, and, before we know it, we flee as a bird to our mountain. The Greensboro community is grateful for our time with Phil and David. Both men left this earth too soon. We are thankful for public places like the Bog Garden that give us a chance to sit and reflect on life and the beauty all around us, especially in times of loss.

College Park Baptist

College Park Baptist Church, located at the corner of Aycock Street and Walker Avenue, has scaffolding around the steeple. It looks like it is getting painted. This dynamic church, located on the western edge of UNCG, is as liberal of a Baptist congregation as you will find. They are an inclusive faith community, explaining that they are "Progressive, Diverse, Ecumenical." College Park Baptist has many activities and offer something for people of all age groups.

Going strong since 1906, this church has a very close connection to UNCG and its campus ministry. College Park Baptist invites students to consider this their spiritual place while away from home. For students who attend, the congregation is quick to offer meals, care packages, and extra nurturing and prayers- especially during exam time. It looks like College Park will be sparkling and ready when the students return next month.

Happy Sunday, everyone!

Mind, Body, Spirit and the Bryan YMCA

Sunday for many, and here at GDP, is a day for pause and reflection. Instead of taking a day off from posting, we like to be more reflective, grateful, and ever hopeful. The above photo is features the Bryan Y.M.C.A. in downtown Greensboro. The Ys have rebranded to use the "Y" (Young) and, as of 2010, have dropped the "MCA" (Men's Christian Association), to be more inclusive, espousing Judeo-Christian values. Today, there is more emphasis on the ethical aspect of the Abrahamic religions, as opposed to the theological. To be sure, the "Y" is more inclusive, doing more to foster inter-group relations. Bibles are welcomed, but you do not need to be a Christian to walk through the doors.

Y memberships today, give you access to more than one Y and there is even national membership. If you are a Y member, you should be free to try out other facilities. The one above, the Kathleen Price Bryan Family Y at 501 W. Market Street, has always been inclusive and inviting. If you ever feel alone, lonely, in need of community, wanting to boost the spirit, mind, and body, take a Y class, walk the track, or participate in a pick up game. Heck, you can even hover around the coffee pot. Conversely, if you see that lone person at the Y (or anywhere), be the one who initiates a conversation. Spirit. Mind. Body. Everyday and everywhere.

"Y" not?

Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit

Today's Sacred Sunday shot is of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Spirit on Yanceville Street, just south of Lee's Chapel Road. The church is small and humble, but they are doing great things. Just beyond the church is a community garden with raised beds that are thriving. Next Saturday (June 23rd) from 12-3pm, they will offer free health screenings. You can get blood pressure and blood sugar screening and some other services. 

Today, faith groups are playing a major role is seeing that congregants, and other community members in need, take important steps towards staying healthy. Screenings and good produce are two such examples. You are also encouraged to nurture your spiritual self while at it. Happy Sunday! Happy healthy!

Rainbow Over the Golf Course

Today's photo was taken at the golf course of the Greensboro Country Club along Carlson Dairy Road. While the farm course is extra thirsty due to having extensive landscaping done, most golf courses require generous amounts of water. The photo reminds us that when there is water, and the sun is angled just right, a rainbow forms. Rainbows can appear in unexpected places at unanticipated times. Let's all help each other find the rainbows even when the clouds loom large. Happy Sunday.

Evangel Fellowship Word Ministries

The above photo was taken in downtown Greensboro in Governmental Plaza on First Friday. Members of the Evangel Fellowship Church of Greensboro were doing sound checks, getting ready for Christian Anderson to sing at a benefit concert,  which was a fundraiser for East Greensboro tornado victims. Ms. Anderson was scheduled to sing at 6:30 and, hopefully, she got to perform before the wind and rain disrupted many First Friday events. 

Evangel Fellowship is a dynamic congregation that worships at 2207 East Cone Boulevard. Otis Lockett, Jr. is pastor. The biblical-based congregation has been together for 35 years, moving from Freeman Mill Road to East Cone Boulevard. Christian Anderson is a local Christian musician who spreads the word of God through her voice. Sometimes, a powerful song can move a person spiritually even more than just plain talking; although, congregants sing the praises of Pastor Lockett and his wife. Happy Sunday!

Youth for Christ

Today's feature is the sideview of the Youth For Christ (YFC)  house at 917 North Elm Street in Greensboro. YFC reaches out to youth who share the love of Christ and who are looking for social involvement centered around Christian endeavors. On their website, YFC helps explain its mission in the following way: 

"Just as our nation's culture has changed dramatically in the last 30 years, so has the way in which people come to Christ. The weekend church service is no longer the primary mechanism for salvation decisions; only one out of every ten believers who makes a decision to follow Christ does so in a church setting or service. On the other hand, personal relationships have become even more important in evangelism, with a majority of salvation decisions coming in direct response to an invitation given by a family member or friend."  Evangelism is most effective among kids. Copyrighted by The Barna Group, Ltd. Youth for Christ has been evangelizing since 1944. The YFC building on North Elm Street is relatively new, freshly painted, and equipped with vehicles and vans to help teenagers participate in Christian activities. We hope you have a happy Sunday and, if your church is looking for a way to support teens in their faith path, consider volunteering for or donating to YFC.

Father's House of Praise

The Father’s House of Praise is located on 152 Litwin Drive, Thomasville, NC, just down the road from Greensboro and highly visible on the right if you are driving to one of the Chartreuse Barn Sales. For a small church, the Father’s House of Praise offers many worship opportunities.  The’ve got Sunday school, Sunday church, Sunday night services and Wednesday night services. Music appears to be an important part of their services.

As seen in the above photo, the church pops against a blue sky wth that bright red roof, double crosses, and little white steeple. Exploring the communities surrounding Greensboro, like Thomasville, makes for great “free time” fun. Happy Sunday, dear readers. If you want to learn more about the Father’s House of Praise, they have a Facebook page, but don’t seem to have a website.

Luther's Cafe

Luther's Cafe is attached to the kitchen at the First Lutheran Church of Greensboro. It is a place where food can be prepared and served. From meals to coffee hour, churches are well served to have a place for food, beverage, and fellowship. First Lutheran is a dynamic church with many community groups meeting here. On any given night, when the church is seemingly as quite as a church mouse, you must might find a scout troop in here assembling snack packs for a camp in. 

Believe it or not, in 2017, Jason Derose, for National Public Radio, wrote a food history and culture article entitled, Recipes for Reformation: A Menu to Mark Martin Luther. Perhaps, we should meet up at Luther's Cafe, at the corner of Friendly and Holden,  and learn more about these recipes! Happy Sunday.

Collins Grove United Methodist Church

The original Collins Grove United Methodist Church was built just after the Civil War. It is located in a community that is also known as Collins Grove. It was settled primarily by African Americans and, in the 1960's, boasted 60 families. With all of the construction of highways and businesses over the decades, the community has declined significantly. According to Jim Schlosser, who wrote an article about the community for the News & Record, in 2005, only about 20 families remained at that time and the number was predicted to decrease significantly.*

It is hard to know what has happened to the neighborhood these past thirteen years; however, to be sure the church and the historic cemetery behind it have been beautifully maintained. Often, in these small rural communities, the church is the pulse of the neighborhood; and, at the corner of Lewiston and Fleming Roads, just beside a Dollar Store, Collins Grove UMC is just that place.

 

*reference and more information, here.

First Lutheran Church at the Corner of Friendly and Holden

 

Churches can really have some interesting rooflines. The First Lutheran Church of Greensboro is no exception. This photo was taken a few weeks ago, early morning, when the church was teeming with shoppers for their Spring Yard Sale. The sale was very organized. All items were clearly priced and placed in rooms, thematically arranged. It was a good opportunity to get to see the church and interact with church members without committing to a service.

If you look on Friendly Avenue, as you are heading west, and just before reaching Holden Road, you will see First Lutheran up on the hill. At first, the roofline just looks mod. As you study it more closely, you will start thinking about things like how all of those geometric triangles evoke the idea of trinity. While the congregation is over 100 years old, the above structure dates to 1969. The whole facility is cozy, unique and woodsy. Hopefully you will have a chance to see it sometime.

Mt. Zion Church

Mt. Zion Church on Alamance Church Road is known for its community involvement. In additional to typical church outreach, they sponsor events that engage the whole community. As an example, they have held faith-based healthcare summits. Most recently, last Tuesday, they opened their doors to the Guilford County Schools. Superintendent Contreras assembled  school personnel to execute an outreach plan to go into neighborhoods affected by last Sunday's tornado. Teachers, staff, and administrators got on  activity busses to go into neighborhoods to see what needed as they recovered from the tornado. They also explained about school re-openings and the return of transportation services.

Communities heal fastest when there is group and individual involvement. Mt. Zion does their fair share, and then some. Since 1900, this church has worked very hard to develop long-lasting relationship with the community. In 1936, the church was destroyed by a tornado. While they were spared during this week's tornado, it is fitting that Mt. Zion was there to help the community during this very trying time.

 

Guilford Park Presbyterian

Yesterday was a big day for Greensboro churches with regard to outreach and visibility in the community. The First Baptist Church and the First Lutheran Church both held yard sales which had people filtering in and out of their buildings all day long.  

The above photo features Guilford Park Presbyterian Church at the Earth Day celebration at Kathleen Clay Edwards Library off of Hobbs and Guilford College Road, behind Jefferson Elementary School. Guilford Park Presbyterian had a recycling game at the event and participants could win prizes. People had an opportunity to learn about recycling and get to know church members without feeling the pressure of becoming involved with the church, unless, of course, that's what they wanted to do.

Guilford Park Presbyterian is located on Fernwood Drive in Kirkwood, near the Target on Lawndale. However, yesterday, they were also located in the 98-acre Price Park that was teeming with children and adults alike, who were learning how to care for and celebrate the planet earth. Regardless of one's religious beliefs, stewardship of the earth is something that can unite humans worldwide.

Lindley Park Baptist Church

For Easter, in addition to a lovely Easter service, displayed a cross with flowers. By the time this photo was taken at the end of last week, the flowers had long faded. However, there is some beauty in seeing faded flowers, for a holiday that ended, against the backdrop of the beautiful brick church with the tall steeple. 

Lindley Park Baptist Church was built in 1949, at 4010 Walker Avenue at Holden Road. By that time World War II had ended, the local population was increasing, and families needed places for going to church. According to the census, in 1940, Greensboro's population was 59, 319 people. By 1950, it had grown to 74,389, an increase of 25%. Lindley Park Baptist was started at that time by the Reverend T.L. Sasser of the Piedmont Baptist Association, and over the years, the church has continued to grow- as has Greensboro's population.

Lindley Park Baptist Church  just got a new website. If you want to learn more about the church, contact a member on Facebook or go to their website, here.

Happy Easter 2018

Happy Easter! In Greensboro, spring has arrived in all of its glory, just in time to help celebrate the rebirth, renewal, and resurrection that Easter and spring represent. If you celebrate Easter and were in Church, you may have noticed that the liturgical colors have changed from purple to white. On parishioners, you will have seen Easter outfits as colorful as the hyacinth featured above.

While many stores will be closed, a lot of restaurants will be serving Easter brunch.* For some Christians, Easter marks the end of a fasting period, often the end of abstinence from dairy and meat products. Greensboro restaurants have prepared some fine food to help you celebrate. The red velvet waffles at Four Flocks and Larder look especially tasty! Whether you eat at home or in a restaurant, have been fasting or not, Easter is a nice transition from the dark and dreary days of winter to the bright, colorful days of spring. Bulbs, like daffodils and hyacinth are associated with the new season and remind us that, in Greensboro, before we know it, the dogwoods and azalea will bloom in all of their glory. Happy Sunday!

 

* See the extensive list that Carl Wilson assembled for the News & Record, here.

St. Benedict's Catholic Church

St. Benedict's Catholic Church, located at the corner of North Elm and Smith Streets, is Greensboro's first Catholic Church. The original congregation first held meetings around 1870.  In 1898, the current church was built with funds provided by Saint Katherine Drexel, who funded the project under the stipulation that Saint Benedict would reserve pews for Greensboro's black Catholics. This aspect of integration was important to Drexel who worked so hard for rights for Native Americans and African Americans.

The above photo features St. Benedict's sanctuary, today. It has not always looked so elegant. In 2017, church members raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars and undertook the renovation of the sanctuary, doing much of the work themselves. It is such a close knit, yet welcoming congregation. Ask any member about the renovation and you will likely get a personal tour. And Saint Katherine Drexel would be pleased to know that there are parish families from all over the world: Togo, Philippines, Croatia, and Nigeria, to name a few places. Pastor James Duc Duong is from Vietnam. Read more about the grand transformation in the December issue of Greensboro's own O. Henry Magazine (here).

 

Farewell to the Reverend Billy Graham

Presidential Proclamation on the Death of Billy Graham:

"As a mark of respect for the memory of Reverend Billy Graham, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that on the day of his interment, the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset on such day." President Donald J. Trump

Rev. Billy Graham first came to Greensboro to preach in 1951, nearly 67 years ago. He filled 15,000 seats at a time when the population of Greensboro was only 70,000. If this wiki list is complete, it appears that was the only time Rev. Graham held a crusade in Greensboro. The above photo was taken at the post office on Battleground Avenue, yesterday, in the plaza where Earth Fare is located.  May his family find comfort during this difficult time. 

The Life Church

After nine years of featuring places of worship at least once a week, you would think Greensboro Daily Photo would run out of places to feature. One thing that adds to the weekly inspiration and options is the fact that some churches change hands. The above photo is of the church right across from Grimsley High School. It began as Westover Terrace Church. When Westover Terrace Church outgrew the location, Daystar moved in. When Daystar outgrew the location and recently relocated, The Life Church moved in. It is a multi-cultural and multigenerational congregation.

Yesterday, Life Church members wearing blue, church t-shirts were seen working hard getting the church ready for the new congregation about to inhabit the facility. Perhaps they know of the good karma surrounding the building and the fact that, if they are as successful as their predecessors, this congregation will outgrow the facility. This is such an interesting name, The Life Church. Local Pastors  Bill and Sharon Motley and Jeramie and Kendra Dawson are starting up Life Church. The are Christian, but with no apparent denominational affiliation. If you want to be part of the launch team of a church, this is your opportunity. As of February 2018, it is open for worship.

Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church- Enveloped in Fog

With the fog, Mt. Pisgah United Methodist Church, located on busy Pisgah Church Road, looks as if it is on a country road in rural Guilford County. In reality, it is right across the street from Lowe's Home Improvement Center at Battleground Avenue. The church, with a congregation of over 1,200 people, dates back to the mid-1800's in Greensboro; back in the early years of our city and in a time when this area was, indeed, rural.

You may recognize them as the church with the vibrant orange pumpkin patch in the fall. They were one of the first, if not THE first church to feature the now-ubiquitous, October pumpkin patch. Just to the right of this photo is a graveyard, somewhat hidden by a fence. Behind the church property is Lewis Recreation Center,  J. Spencer Love Tennis Center, Forest Lawn Cemetery, Jaycee Park, and Country Park. This is a corner of Greensboro with so much history and so much to do, literally from cradle to grave.

Happy Sunday, we hope you have a great day.

In This House, We Believe...

Sometimes, it is best to let the sign speak for itself. And this one speaks volumes about the people who live at this address...

Many houses around Greensboro have signs with messages like the one above. If memory serves, this sign was spotted in a yard in Westerwood. Then again, signs with this type of inclusive message are often spotted in Fisher Park and in Lindley Park. How would it make you feel to have a sign like this one pop up in your neighbor's yard? As we do our Sunday musing, meditating, praying, or whatever we do to ponder the big spiritual, moral, and humanitarian questions, let us all think about what our own sign would say. To be sure, they are a window into the heart and soul. Happy Sunday! Happy reflecting to our friends in Greensboro and beyond!

Immaculate Heart of Mary

The Virgin Mary is drenched in symbolism and, up until the 18th century, the was the single-most commonly depicted female figure. While there are many different ideas about her and her role in Christianity, she is Jesus' mother and in iconography is depicted with him. She is linked to human nature and the earthly aspect of Christianity.* In St. Luke's gospel, it is said that Mary kept all things in her heart to ponder them. 

The above photo is of a painting of Mary that was turned into a collage and recently for sale at a Greensboro thrift store. Last time we checked, she had been sold. Somebody in Greensboro has rescued her. It made us wish we'd left a business card taped to the back of the piece asking the person who purchased it to let us know what happens to her. We hope you have a great Sunday and, if you have time, look around and see the beauty around us. Mary would want that.

*reference and interesting article here.

Winter Night Sky

 With the recent blanket of white snow lingering and a couple of sunny days, it is easy to forget that we are still in the time with the longest nights of the year. The above photo is of this week's waxing crescent moon. Today, the sun rises at 7:27 a.m. and sets at 5:35 p.m., giving our lattitude about ten hours of daylight and fourteen hours of night.

There are many references to darkness in the Bible, often referring to evil and taking the wrong path.  An example is Proverbs 4:19: But the way of the wicked is like total darkness. They have no idea what they are stumbling over. A more lighthearted reference to darkness can be found in Psalm 104:19-20: He made the moon to mark the seasons, and the sun knows when to set. You bring darkness and it becomes night, and all the beasts of the forest prowl.

Even though Greensboro is working its way out of a hard week of true winter and it was as if the whole city was at a standstill, as we consider Psalm 104, we are reminded that the light and dark are purposeful.  The waxing crescent moon is the prelude to 14 hours of darkness, merely a way of marking the seasons. Nothing says winter like single digit temperatures, nine inches of snow, and extra hours of darkness. 

Happy wintertime! Happy Sunday-  where the very word has embedded in it the moon's bright counterpart!

College Park Baptist Church

Today's photo of College Park Baptist Church was taken in early December when Greensboro had its first snowfall of the year. Since the forecast is predicting snow again this week, the photo is timely. College Park Baptist is located at the southwest corner of Walker Avenue and Aycock Street- just across the street from UNCG.  

College Park Baptist, is known for being about as welcoming, inclusive, and liberal as a church can be. The church was founded in 1906 and originally called Forest Avenue Church. Given its close proximity to UNCG, college students have always been an important part of the congregation. The church was the first in Greensboro to have an ordained female minister. Over the years, twelve of their members have been ordained as ministers and they have sent nine missionaries to foreign countries.*  Whether you are actively seeking out a church, or just looking for a congregation to visit, one that will welcome you with open arms, step in and give CPBC a try. If you happen to get stuck in a snow storm and are in the neighborhood, we're betting someone at the church will lend a hand.

*reference and more church history, here.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Shabbat Service at Temple Emanuel

Last night was the 23rd annual Shabbat Service at Temple Emanuel, honoring the memory of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  Also addressed was the issue of racism in society today. Rabbi Guttman went "off script" to address the topic, relating his message to recent events in the news.  The keynote speaker, UNCG's Chancellor Gilliam spoke about racism, the power of storytelling, and the need for social change.

Throughout the very special two hour service, Jewish prayers and rituals were combined with music- contempory, traditional, and religious. The service reminded the congregation and guests that there is much work to be done to have a more equal and just society. It was a memorable moment hearing Hank Brodt, a survivor of five Nazi concentration camps sang V'shamru. Another special moment came when everyone in the room sang a song that combined "America the Beautiful" and "We Shall Overcome." Politicians and religious leaders in the audience were recognized; quite a testimony to the diversity in the audience. At the end of the service, all religious leaders in attendance went up front to show solidarity and a common vision. It was a very memorable service, where all felt embraced and welcome.

Nativity at Centenary UMC

Centenary United Methodist Episcopal Church was originally established in 1884 in Greensboro. It was named "Centenary" because 1884 was the one hundredth anniversary of Methodism in the United States. The church was originally located on Arlington Street, and then in 1961, a new building was erected at the Elam/West Friendly Avenue location. The new sanctuary was completed on that same in 1969 and has remained there for the past 49 years.*

The nativity scene on the Friendly Avenue side of the church is a reminder that yesterday was Epiphany or Three Kings Day (above right). Especially if you are a Catholic or Orthodox Christian, you will know that yesterday Balthasar of Arabia, Melchior of Persia, and Gaspar of India, the Three Magi of Bethlehem, arrived to pay their respects and bring their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The whole story is brought to life in the nativity scene at Centenary.

It would have been hard for the members in 1884 to imagine life in 1984. It is equally hard to imagine life 66 years from now, in 2084. Here's to another great century for Centenary in Greensboro. Thank you for doing so much for the community, including providing the lovely nativity scene.

 

* reference and history, here.

Christ Church

Christ Church, located at 414 North Church Street, is one of those churches that can go unnoticed, even though it is in plain sight. The first location downtown for Christ Church was 421 West Smith Street, where it opened January 2011. By 2014, the church had outgrown the Smith Street location and, in Fall of 2015, opened the new facility on Church Street. Christ Church is situated beside Fisher Park Law and the Greensboro Housing Authority.

Built in 1989, the building was formerly a data center. While you don't see crosses, stained glass, or a steeple, if growth in membership is any indication, we're betting that once you step inside, you know you are in the presence of a welcoming religious community. The unidentified family on the sidewalk just happened to be walking by as we were on location yesterday. While you can't tell by the photo, the little girl was carrying a pink plastic case for her plush pet. Her parents, walking arm in arm, gave her a little independence, but never took their eyes off of her. The happy family reminded us, it takes people, not crosses and steeples, to make a church.

Creche for Christmas 2017

The above creche was spotted in a neighborhood off of Westminster Drive, near West Friendly Avenue. Representing the scene of Jesus Christ's birth, nativity scenes can be seen at churches as well as private homes. St. Francis of Assisi is credited with staging the first nativity scene in 1223. St. Francis set up a manger with hay, a live ox and an ass, in a cave in Grecio to use during a service where he preached about the birth of Christ*  While nativity scenes are more closely associated with Catholicism and Southern Europe, it is not uncommon to see them at Christian churches or households of people of any denomination.

We try to post at least one nativity scene a year. Two highly visible ones are the creche at Greensboro College on West Market Street and the one at Centenary Methodist Church on West Friendly Avenue at Ridgeway. If you know of others, post a comment below and we'll put it on the "to be photographed" list. Happy Christmas Eve Day! Can you spot the squirrel who was paying his respects on the day we were there?

* reference and more information, here.

Salvation Army Prayer Line of Greensboro

As seen in the above photo, Greensboro's Salvation Army has a prayer line. This sign is located at the Salvation Army Family Store on East Gate City Boulevard- across from the Kotis property that was formerly Brooks Lumber. If you look on the telephone pole, you can see that I-40 and I-85, the two interstates that go through Greensboro, are not too far from the sign in the above photo.

The photo was taken yesterday when the air was crisp and cool, the sun was shining, and the sky was cloudless and blue. It was lovely. The sign reminds us all that if you feel alone, you can call and someone will reach out to you. This service is especially important at this time of the year when people can feel (and be) so alone. If you asked someone to pray for you, what would you want them to say? Even if you don't speak these words out loud, just thinking them can help clear one's mine. Thank you Salvation Army for all you do for the community. Support services are greatly needed.

PRAY4ME 51555.

First Moravian Church, Revisited

Today, we return to the First Moravian Church. The First Moravian Church, located on South Elam Street, was not on the running route for the Running of the Balls event last night, but you never would have known it by the amount of festive decoration and lighted-balls in the trees, around the church. Lindley Park is the next neighborhood over from Sunset Hills. Both neighborhoods have dynamic residents and the majority of the homes are owner occupied. The weather turned out to be perfect for last night's fundraiser: Crisp, hovering around 32 degrees with snow on the ground, Streets were clear and it did not rain or snow last night.

The above photo features the lighted steeple of the First Moravian Church, surrounded by Greensboro's famous lighted-tree-ball decorations. The scene is even more beautiful in person as the colors of the decorations are much more vibrant. We really hope you have a chance to get out and see all of the decorations in the Sunset Hills/Lindley Park neighborhoods. Oh, and be sure to keep your head tilted toward the sky as the decorations are a vertical wonderland!

 

First Moravian Church of Greensboro: Candle Tea 2017

You know it is December and the Advent season when the First Moravian Church of Greensboro has their Candle Tea. This year's event, Friday and Saturday, was fabulous. The church members put so much effort into the event and it shows. There are arts and crafts, including Moravian stars; there is food, especially the chicken pot pies; there is music, including handbells; there is a demonstration of candle making, the old fashioned way. And then there are exuberant church members, like the young lady above, who is just so proud of her church and confident in herself. This may well be our favorite "Sacred Sunday" photo of the year. The joy and spontaneity of her gestures are enough to make one want to attend the First Moravian Church.

The First Moravian Church of Greensboro is located 304 South Elam Avenue. With roots dating to the 1400s in Bohemia, Moravia, and Silesia, the Moravian Church is one of the oldest Protestant denominations in the world. Its formal name is Unity of the Brethren. If you have ever visited Old Salem in Winston-Salem, that community was founded by the Moravians. The church is very open and inviting. They emphasize personal piety and to the Moravians, music is important in worship. For one weekend a year, the Moravians of Greensboro open their doors and the members of the church come together to give to the community. If you live in Greensboro, you owe it to yourself to attend the Candle Tea. As for the young lady above, she is to the Moravian Church what Sally Field was to the Flying Nun! We wish we'd gotten her name, but she dashed off to work some more and we didn't get a chance to talk to her.

Triad Yard Cards & Thank you Jesus Signs

Triad Yard Cards is a locally owned company that prints plastic signs and provides the metal stands to hold them in yards. Yard signs have been very popular for groups advertising events, especially religious organizations. The above signs, the Star of David, and the Inclusive, Rainbow Heart,  were installed by Triad Yard Cards at Temple Emanuel last month.*

Other local yard signs, sweeping the nation, are the "Thank you JESUS" signs. Unlike Triad Yard Cards, with  a seemingly unlimited array of signs, symbols, and individual letters, the Thank you Jesus signs only offer one sign. The company was started by an Asheboro teen and, to date, has sold over 100,000 "Thank you JESUS signs.* If you are driving around town today, past any house of worship, and see signage in the yard, you can be relative confident that the signs were made locally. If your religious organization need signs, consider these two businesses. Truly, you will be contributing to the "shop locally" movement. Happy Sunday!

• Contact information: 336-937-2560 Michele@triadyardcards.com
• Contact information: www.thankyoujesus.com

Jewish Fesitval at Temple Emanuel

Temple Emanuel, located at 1129 Jefferson Road, is hosting their Jewish Festival today from 11:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. The SHALOM Y'ALL sign along Jefferson lets everyone feel welcome attending. The above photo is of the temple through the "O" on the SHALOM sign. You don't need to be Jewish to enjoy the events and food featured today. Jewish and Israeli food, like pastrami on rye sandwiches, chicken noodle and matzo ball soup, bagels, kosher hot dogs, and fabulous desserts will be available. Additionally, there will be sanctuary tours, Bible characters walking around to meet and greet you. Artisans will be selling jewelry, pottery, and more. Continuous entertainment and educational activities are featured all day long.

Temple Emanuel is a Reform Jewish congregation. The congregation is very open, inviting and embraces diversity. As stated on their website, the services are joyous, informative, and filled with great music. Who knows, you may stop by for a sandwich, but leave having found a spiritual home. Greensboro is lucky to have a dynamic congregation like Temple Emanuel. Here is a photo of the temple with the above-mentioned SHALOM Y'ALL sign.