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How should pastors be examples to the flock?

But Thomas, called Didymus, one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. — John 20:24 As we consider the subject of Sunday morning worship and church growth, we must get rid of our modern-day ideas, and put ourselves in the time period of the early church. I have tried to focus on the early New Testament church and the truth of Scripture. But some people are saying, “Lyn Stimeling is writing divisive articles; he is even against regular church attendance. Nothing could be further from the truth.” I am writing against unscriptural man-made legalism in the church. If you ...

Chicken pot pie is on the menu in Bev’s Kitchen

Hello again from the kitchen! February is moving right along and we’re one day closer to spring. Before you know it, it’ll be time to plant those spring onions. When our kids were little, we grew a big garden. The spouse planted and I made meals and preserved what we harvested. Apparently I do not have a green thumb, as I tend to kill plants. I try, but I’ve come to the conclusion that someone else needs to grow them for me. Thank goodness for local roadside stands and markets. This past week was a busy one in the kitchen. Making food for the Super Bowl, Donut Day and ...

Exploring George Washington’s lesser-known side

As we approach Presidents Day, I thought it would be interesting to investigate and unearth some lesser-known facts about our founding father, George Washington. I will sift through the myriad of information out there to uncover the truths amidst the fictions. Let’s begin by debunking a popular myth. At the risk of disappointing you dear reader, I must expose the truth. According to every account I read, the enduring story of young George chopping down the cherry tree and then confessing the misdeed to his father is pure, unsubstantiated fiction. A good story with a wonderful ...

1973: Plans are finalized for the new MC Library

When we last talked about Library History, we ended in 1972 with a grant, an architect and momentum. The original architectural plans called for a 14,000 square foot two story building (7,000 square feet of floor space on each level) but due to the cost, the lower level would not be finished. I know from completing my annual reports for the Office of Commonwealth Libraries that I report the “library” as 9,630 square feet. As the months moved along toward 1973, so were the plans finalized for a new library building. There were still money woes as well as concerns over another go ...

The JC Library in 2023: Facts, figures and more

I look forward to writing this column every year. I love seeing what were the most popular and sought-after titles. It helps me get a glimpse into what the interests are here in Juniata County. I’m always surprised to see an item on the list that I wouldn’t have imagined to be as popular as it turned out to be. Conversely, I find it interesting to not see some books or authors on the list. Below I list the titles, the circulations (checkouts and renewals) and some details about the item. Heart Bones by Colleen Hoover (22 circulations) – new adult fiction. Last year’s most ...

We can’t run from God

We can’t out-run God or His love — Jonah 3:10 It’s futile to run from God. Jonah discovered that. When God called him to go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim their impending judgment, Jonah refused and fled. Why? Because he knew what would happen. The Ninevites might repent of their wickedness, and he knew God was gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, willing to relent from sending calamity. Jonah didn’t want God to spare these bitter enemies. He learned the hard way, though, that you and I can’t out-run God or His love. Jonah ...