THE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury Oh, that the inimitable Will Rogers were alive today. The need for his disarming smile and positive spirit helped Americans survive the Great Depression. He’d go a long way today in bringing people together as mounting challenges blot out our better acts and kinder nature. Even Will might not know where to start. An introductory
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By NANCY PATRICK As a baby boomer, I’ve enjoyed this label that has always reminded me of the end of WWII. Although my generation actually includes people born between 1946 and 1964, I generally think of my generation as the kids of the 1950s. The 1950s exudes an image of innocence, family values, and spiritual commitment. Many of the young
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The Carl Spain Center on Race Studies & Spiritual Action, housed at Abilene Christian University, will present a Spiritual Think Tank virtual program, “Thinking About Critical Race Theory Together,” 2-4 p.m. Dec. 4. The program is free, but register here to get a link to the online program. The Carl Spain Center website gives the following information about the program?
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The congregation of Brook Hollow Christian Church has a new meeting place at 4606 S. 14th St. in Woodhaven Shopping Center. Services are at 10:10 a.m. Sundays. The church sold its building at South 23rd and Willis Streets to Beltway Park Church and started meeting in its new location on Nov. 21. The sale was finalized on Nov. 19. the
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The calendar is already filling up with Christmas events, from The Messiah to Christmas at The Zoo. The following list will be updated continuously. To add a Christmas-related event, email details to editor@spiritofabilene.com CHRISTMAS IN THE ALDERSGATE GARDEN Aldersgate United Methodist Church’s Open Door Community Garden, on the corner of S. 19th and Amarillo streets, will turn into a Christmas
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By LORETTA FULTON A white board for jotting down reasons to be thankful filled quickly Wednesday morning as guests stood in the serving line at the day-before-Thanksgiving breakfast served by City Light Community Ministries. “Getting an apartment”“Being alive” “A meal here”“My City Light Family” Those were among the many blessings listed by guests and volunteers. The breakfast is a tradition at
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Chanukkah or Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, will be observed the evening of Nov. 28 through the evening of Dec. 6. Locally, Dr. Marc Orner will lead a service, which includes dinner, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 3. at Temple Mizpah, 849 Chestnut St. Tickets for the dinner are $5 and reservations are required by Dec. 1. Those who
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2021 Winter Lightfest 2250 EN 10th StSCHEDULEFriday – SundayNovember 26-28December 3-5, 10-12 & 17-19The Week of ChristmasDecember 20-23 & 26(Closed Christmas Eve & Christmas Day)HoursThe park is open 6-10 p.m. .The parking lot opens at 5:30 p.m. with last entry granted at 9 p.m.Parking is FREE.PricingSkip the lines and purchase your tickets here before you arrive. Tickets are good for any
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By DANNY MINTON “Thanksgiving Thursday” has officially been part of the American culture since around 1863. At that time, the government decided that the country would observe Thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November. During that time, the Christmas season didn’t start until the day after Thanksgiving. In 1939 a group of merchants complained that there were times when Thanksgiving
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Howard Payne UniversityOffice of University Marketing and Communications Area residents and visitors are invited to the 37th annual Community Thanksgiving Feast at Howard Payne University, scheduled for 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 25. The event, which is free to the public, will be held at HPU’s Mabee University Center, 1219 Fisk Street. The traditional Thanksgiving meal will consist of
Read moreMonty Lynn, a business professor at Abilene Christian University, with experience in social work and international development, shares historical accounts of Christian service in his new book, “Christian Compassion: A Charitable History,” published by Wipf & Stock. Lynn discovered in his own work that learning about the service of early Christians gave him insight and encouragement. “I often found historical
Read moreTHE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury A dozen years before “Sir” was added to his name, Winston Churchill motivated Britons with his unforgettable “never give in” speech. It lifted spirits for freedom as World War II raged and frequently is quoted even now, 70 years later. His message was to “never give in, never give in, never, never, never–in nothing great
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By DANNY MINTON One of the biggest challenges in “church work” is teaching each other not to pass judgment on others. There is a strong tendency to form quick opinions on people and actions without really knowing them or trying to understand what’s going on. People often judge actions or become quick-tempered before taking the time to get facts and
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23rd ANNUAL MISSION: THANKSGIVING ITEMS NEEDEDMonetary DonationsFrozen Meat (Deer or Cow)Non-perishable FoodNew Socks and UnderwearCoatsSleeping BagsBottled Water & Soft DrinksTravel Size Personal Hygiene ItemsSCHEDULETHURSDAY, Nov. 187 a.m.-5 p.m.Love and Care Ministries(325) 670-0246233 Fannin StreetAbilene, Texas 79603http://www.lcmin.comFRIDAY, Nov. 197 a.m.-7 p.m.Arrow Ford4001 South First StreetMORE INFORMATION: Contact Mark Hewitt, executive director of Love & Care Ministries, 325-670-0246NINTH ANNUAL MERKEL EVENTWhen: 7 a.m.-7
Read moreJay Moore’s newest book, “Abilene Daily: Snapshots of Home,” contains one or more vignettes from Abilene’s history for each day of the year. Periodically, stories with some connection–however loose–to Abilene’s religious life will be featured in Spirit of Abilene. The book can be purchased at Texas Star Trading Co., 174 Cypress St. www.texasstartrading.com or call 325-672-9696. Books are $27.50. Following is an excerpt
Read more“The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Who Are They?” is a question that members will try to answer during the November meeting of the Abilene Interfaith Council. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16, at the LDS Church, 3325 N. 12th St. The public is invited to the free meeting. LDS Members serving as panelists are
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By NANCY PATRICK America prides itself on freedom. I can do whatever I want, and no one can tell me what to do! I’ve heard that more than ever since the world entered the COVID pandemic. This critical time in history has provided my first experience with a worldwide issue that has occurred simultaneously around the globe. As I watched
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By JIM NICHOLS Perhaps because my adult career has included both teaching and science, I am discouraged with our current American cultural climate. Somehow, we have concluded that two of the most positive human endeavors are now untrustworthy. The media are full of conflict voices questioning the basic skills and intentions of people who, historically, have been held with esteem.
Read moreThe following opinion piece by Dr. Robert Sellers originally was posted on the Baptist News Global website. It is reprinted here with permission. Sellers is professor of theology and missions emeritus at Hardin-Simmons University’s Logsdon Seminary. Statistics for 2021 from across multiple Christian denominations reveal a decrease in church membership and active participation, according to the parachurch organization Exponential and the Pew
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By MARIANNE WOOD Christians in the Visual Arts, or CIVA, held its biennial conference in Austin this past week with the theme “transcendence.” Since our calendars were clear and this event was nearby, my friend, Sue Wood (no relation), and I signed up and packed our bags. We went in need of artistic nourishment, inspiration, and a desire to deepen
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By LORETTA FULTON OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILDWhen: National collection week Nov. 15-22Where: Local drop-off locations are First Baptist Church, 1333 N. Third St., and Wylie United Methodist Church. 3430 Antilley Road. First Baptist drop-off hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 15; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 16; 1-6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday,
Read moreMacedonia Baptist Church, 608 N. Seventh St., will host an initiative called Community Conversation at 7 p.m. Nov. 20. to address mental health issues. “Removing the Stigma” is a community service that provides greater awareness of mental health in general and depression specifically. The public is invited to the free event. Several mental health care professionals will share important information
Read moreTHE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury There will be those who insist that I have received my just desserts. However, I choose to believe that I have been favored by unbelievably good fortune despite a fall from my church platform. Thankfully, heartbeats and breathing were restored countless times. This occurred during the October 24 Sunday morning traditional service at Burleson First
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By JIM NICHOLS Most people early in life understand the concept of “tying up loose ends.” We all have small and large projects with a proposed ending date, and we are trying to complete the details before that time. What happens if the time runs out when we still have loose ends dangling? Two weeks earlier, he had sat at
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By DANNY MINTON Through all my years of ministry, many criticisms and compliments have come my way. Like most of us, we hate to hear the criticisms. Sometimes we deserve them, while at other times, they only represent the opinion of the giver. Criticisms can be hard to handle, especially if we feel them to be unfounded. No one likes
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By MARIANNE WOOD “Mimi, can I go to your house to help you and Pop look for Eddie?” Our granddaughter, age four, asked me this question as I drove her home from her preschool. I told her she’d have to ask her parents but that I (her Mimi and Pop-her grandad) would like that very much. She repeated her question
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Aida Pantoja, in upper left photo, shows off her beautiful dress during a celebation Monday night of Dia de los Muertos of Day of the Dead. The annual celebration of the lives of loved ones is a tradition in Mexico and in Hisanpic cultures. Below is a short clip of dancers from Ballet Folklorico from St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Church.
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Remember that hour of sleep you lost in March when Daylight Saving Time kicked in? Well, you’ll get it back this weekend when DST ends early Sunday morning. Officially, DST ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 7. But just to be on the safe side, move your clocks back one hour before going to bed Saturday night. For those who
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A new book by Loretta Fulton accompanies the opening of a new main building at Hendrick Home for Children, South 27th Street and Treadaway Boulevard. Grand opening ceremonies have been postponed due to COVID concerns, but the book is available at Texas Star Trading Company, 174 Cypress St. Titled “Hendrick Home for Children: Still Building on a Firm Foundation,” the
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By NANCY PATRICK Sunday, October 10, 2021, Dr. Bob Ellis filled the pulpit at First Baptist Church, Abilene. He treated our congregation to an excellent sermon while our search committee seeks a new senior pastor after our long-time pastor, Dr. Phil Christopher, retired. Dr. Ellis, a true intellectual, has the talent of imparting difficult concepts to average people. He chose
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By JIM NICHOLS It seems that every year there is a new block-buster superhero movie available. Each one promises, and usually delivers, expanded technologic graphics, noise, and excitement. It is hard to avoid the understanding that being a hero (or heroine—why did we lose that word?) requires events or individuals that are far from ordinary. Do not each of us
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By DANNY MINTON Driving northeast from Waco, Texas, at approximately the 30-mile marker, you will come to Hubbard, Texas, with a population of 1,761 according to the 2019 census. In Hubbard, on April 4, 1888, one of the greatest baseball players of all time was born. He became known as “the Gray Eagle.” Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Ty Cobb, Cy
Read moreTHE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury We spend hours at homecomings, reminiscing about bygone days. There were mutterings of how time flies at Howard Payne University’s annual gathering on October 1. The class of 1971, headed by Darrell Miles, wanted to honor HPU athletes, including basketball stars Russell Berry and Ray Hildebrand. (Paula Berry accompanied her husband Russell.) These were mostly 70-somethings.
Read moreTwo environmental organizations applauded President Biden’s Build Back Better Framework, which includes a historic $555 billion investment to take on the climate crisis and would set the U.S. on track to cut carbon emissions in half by 2030. The Framework was announced Thursday, Oct. 28. Both the Young Evangelicals for Climate Action and The Evangelical Environmental Network praised Biden’t initiative.
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How to Get “Safe Energy Forever: Pure Water for the World and a Cure for Cancer”Amazon: $12.95 paperback, $3.99 KindleContact author David Halbert: 325-668-6016 By LORETTA FULTON David Halbert has a simple favor to ask, and it won’t take but a minute. The favor concerns a book he wrote, “Safe Energy Forever: Pure Water for the World and a Cure
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Rick Hammer, former biology professor at Hardin-Simmons University, is well known in Abilene for his role in the development of a nature park at Kirby Lake and for his creation stewardship activism. He recently had an article published on the Baptist News Global website titled, “Why I see COVID-19 vaccines as a sign of God’s grace.” The article begins with,
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By LORETTA FULTON Fall festivals, religious services, and a Cypress Street takeover are among the many offerings this week as Abilenians prepare to celebrate Halloween, All Saints and All Souls days, and Dia de los Muertos. (Click here to read separate article, including dates of observances, about “El Dia.”) To add an event, send details to editor@spiritofabilene.com Pioneer Drive Baptist
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By LORETTA FULTON It’s that time of year again when religion and culture come together for a mix of somber and fun events. Halloween (All Hallow’s Eve), with its costumes and trick or treat tradition, and Dia de los Muertos, practiced by indigenous people of Mexico for centuries, come on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Also, in some Christian traditions,
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By DANNY MINTON Winter and her close friend decided to take a trip to New York City to meet another friend and have an office picnic in her Twin Tower office. Before the trip, Winter’s mother called and said she planned to come for a visit. Winter tried to persuade her to change the plans, but her mother felt it
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By JIM NICHOLS One of the results of high definition, large televisions and the abundance of sports on the screen is the ability for a viewer to see a player become injured. The pain of the injury is sometimes severe enough that we viewers can see these adult players fighting back or giving into tears. Since each of us has
Read moreTHE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury Alexander William Kinglake is a name snuggled deeply inside of all-knowing Google. He was a 19th century lawyer who gave up his legal practice to become an author, best known for a single proverb: “Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will never hurt you.” It is believed that Kinglake’s intent was to help
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By ANNA SCHILLER Pew Research Center As houses of worship continue to reopen, most U.S. adults who regularly attend religious services voice confidence in their clergy to provide guidance on the coronavirus vaccines – and far more say they have heard their pastor, priest, rabbi or imam encourage people to get vaccinated than have heard their clergy raise doubts about
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By LORETTA FULTON Letters from former students, colleagues, and friends poured in a year ago when McMurry University planned to honor professor emeritus of religion Dr. Robert C. Monk. But COVID-19–the grinch that stole 2020–dashed that plan and the ceremony was postponed until Friday, Oct. 15, 2021. Monk has had a year to savor those letters, and on Friday he
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By NANCY PATRICK I have not kept up with all the new trends in modern American education since my retirement from public school teaching in 2004. Although I continued to teach at the college level for another 10 years, I discovered that not all state rules apply to private college education. In the Sept. 14, 2021, edition of the Abilene
Read moreTHE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury During almost two decades of writing weekly accounts of humorous and/or unlikely occurrences, I’ve never come across anything quite so bizarre as the subject of this week’s epistle. It is a legal case in progress, as the wheels of justice necessarily turn slowly. Otherwise, the folks at Alta Mesa Church of Christ in Fort Worth
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By DANNY MINTON I walked into the backyard one evening, sat in the rocker, and gazed into the clear night sky. I thought about the grandeur of all the heavenly bodies that God placed within our sight. Then I wondered, “How many others over the centuries had gazed at the same array and felt the awe of something greater than
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Jay Moore’s newest book, “Abilene Daily: Snapshots of Home,” contains one or more vignettes from Abilene’s history for each day of the year. Periodically, stories with some connection–however loose–to Abilene’s religious life will be featured in Spirit of Abilene. The book can be purchased at Texas Star Trading Co., 174 Cypress St. www.texasstartrading.com or call 325-672-9696. Books are $27.50. Following is an
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By JIM NICHOLS The Meals on Wheels client was complaining about the expense and size of the local newspaper. The price had gone up and the size had gone down, and she wondered whether it was still worth taking. “The only reason I take it anymore is for the comics and the obituaries,” she said. I used to think people
Read moreTHE IDLE AMERICANCommentary by Dr. Don Newbury J. Ron Hardin, from most angles, might appear to be the kind of guy others would enjoy competing against. They might figure him to be a “push-over” in recreational or business endeavors, and they’d be wrong. He’d probably get so far ahead of ‘em that he’d soon be out of sight to the naked
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By JIM NICHOLS It was just a green postcard that appeared in the mail. It read “Official Jury Summons” and identified a time, date, and place that I was to report to help construct a jury pool for an upcoming trial. I had occasionally received such a summons but was usually dismissed after reporting because I was not needed or
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By MARIANNE WOOD I feel moved every time I recall the Amish farmer in the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia one Thanksgiving week. He sold me ten deep red leather candy canes with bells held on brass rings. I gave the sets of bells to friends that year for Christmas. I love their tinkling sound and the memory that follows.
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By JIM NICHOLS It seems as if the political season never ends in our country. We just had a presidential election and already the 2024 hopefuls are beginning to make a case for themselves. Assuming that some of these individuals are nice and capable people, it is already tiring to see them make plays for what some might consider the
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