By JIM NICHOLS What would your decision be should you be asked to participate or support some action with which you disagree? Not just a mild disagreement, but a serious, considered disagreement for which there seemed to be no second alternative. The term “conscientious objector” is most often connected to military service. There is a long and worldwide history of
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By DARRYL TIPPENS There is the legend of the old Scottish True Believer who fervently prayed: “O Lord, I pray that I am right about everything, for Thou knowest I never change my mind.” While I’ve never prayed this prayer, I understand the sentiment of it. I was raised in a family which fostered self-confidence. My five siblings and I
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By The Rev. LESLIE DUNLAP On Ash Wednesday, Grace Lutheran Church will once again be offering “Drive-through Ashes,” a new approach to a centuries-old Christian tradition. I will be located on the sidewalk in front of the church at 1202 S. Pioneer Drive from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 to 5:30 p.m. You can pull up and
Read moreBy JIM NICHOLS St. Francis of Assisi suggested that, when attempting to be God’s people to others, we should start with human suffering rather than human sinfulness. Have you ever made a hospital visit to a friend or relative and encountered a law enforcement officer sitting in a chair outside some room on the floor? Though not a common sight
Read moreBy DANNY MINTON Several years ago, I came across a story where caregivers from a special needs group home started bringing the clients to a worship service. The group would take up a full row toward the rear of the auditorium. As with many individuals with special needs, they can, at times, like small children, not sit still or be
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Hardin-Simmons University issued the following news release Friday, Feb. 21, concerning announcement of the closing of Logsdon Seminary and other changes at the university. HARDIN-SIMMONS UNIVERSTIY NEWS RELEASE Jacob Brandt Director for University Marketing We have received a number of questions regarding the recent campus changes that were announced on Friday, February 14. In an effort to help publish answers
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By LORETTA FULTON In the last six months, Dr. Carson Reed has visited ten different churches, not looking for a church home but looking to help leaders of the churches that others call home. Reed is vice president for church relations at Abilene Christian University and executive director of the Siburt Institute for Church Ministry housed at ACU. Through the
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By LORETTA FULTON Once upon a time, Doug Mendenhall dabbled in politics before coming to realize that it is more fun to write about hot button issues from the sidelines than to be in the thick of the fight. He turned that realization into a popular column on “faith, values, and how Jesus would’ve done it” that was published in
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By LORETTA FULTON The man behind the newest and perhaps the grandest pipe organ in Abilene doesn’t even consider himself a professional organist. Try telling that to members and visitors at First Central Presbyterian Church who are graced by the skills and dedication of Larry Wolz, who is entering his 40th year as organist at First Central and 50th as
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Spirit Of Abilene 