“He will keep you firm to the end, irreproachable on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” One thing is for certain: everyone suffers. There is not one human being who can escape that category of experience while walking any number of years on this earth. And within that stipulation, many suffer for the Church, in the Church, and for what is just and right. These provide great moments of inspiration and deep calls for prayer and solidarity. Today is also the Feast of St. Monica, who prayed incessantly for her wayward son, who would become one of the greatest Saints, writers, and examples of complete and remarkable conversion (St. Augustine). Sometimes we think only of the glorious, apparently worry-free, and sparsely inhabited areas of problems when we think of saintly life, but actually ordinary people became great saints precisely because of their suffering and their never-ending desire to pray and life to God those they have loved and wanted as a heavenly destination. Those who are constantly praying for others can relate to the joy and peace that is given that their prayers are not only being heard but are also answered within the Divine Providence that exists in Heaven as it does here on earth.
Our prayers are definitely answered, making us even more enthused and desirous of continuing their mandate to Heaven, to our loving God who cares for us so much and is always reaching out to us with inspiration and strength. Jesus made this crystal clear: “For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” Today on the special day of Saint Monica, let us renew our hopes and dreams to never lose heart in praying for everything we see that we need. Keep remembering those you love and those you have lost, no matter what the situation or how dark things may seem. Jesus is the Light of the World and can and does illuminate every dark crevice in our lives, now and at the hour of death.
“Bury my body wherever you will; let not care of it cause you any concern. One thing only I ask you, that you remember me at the altar of the Lord wherever you may be.” St. Augustine, quoting his mother, St. Monica; Confessions
Board Member
Everyone needs to have a Ray “Redfish” for a friend or at least to meet one like him before you leave the planet. He has never been known to interrupt a single person, say an unkind thing, although he did come close during the last Dallas Cowboy game, or leave any food on his plate. Ray wants to live in a world where Jesus is Lord, life is sacred, and blessings never end.
Board Member
Grateful for an amazing group of friends and a life that has been blessed and enriched by so many, Andrea brings a deep joy and dedication to the mission of CityOfAgape. She is detail-oriented and uses her experience and foresight to proactively address the needs of those around her. When you speak with Andrea, you feel like you’re the only one in the room.
Board Member
Father David comes from the land of Iowa where you can get sunburn and frostbite all in the same week. He has the mind of an architect and the soul of a musician. Father David has given his heart to Jesus and truly lives in the Kingdom. An accomplished guitarist, drummer, phenomenal preacher, he has the voice of a baritone angel. His prayers are powerful and his humor, well… it’s Iowan.
Secretary/Treasurer
Every day, for nine months, an intermittent light rain falls in Seattle, Washington. Those days are brightened by the warm smile and hopeful outlook on life that Angelyn brings to every encounter. Her financial expertise and engaging conversation has ensured great things ahead for CityOfAgape. Her life is filled with a constant welcome that is focused and friendly.
President
Jacqueline’s life epitomizes hard work, creative service and complete dedication, not only to CityOfAgape, but also to her husband, Joshua, and her beautiful children. Her smile, even when things are difficult, is refreshing and comforting. In most currently used English dictionaries, under the word “energy,” you will find Jacqueline’s picture.
Secretary/Treasurer
Janice is not only meticulous in reviewing records and requests for Scriptures, but her eyes well-up with joyful tears when you ask her about all the letters she has received from the thousands of Bible recipients over the years. She loves gardening and listening to the earth; her life is like a long stroll through an intriguing and engaging nature center.
Board Member
Father James’ priestly service has taken him to four different countries, many parish settings, and in contact with more friends that rivals most politicians. One of his favorite quotes is by G.K. Chesterton, “Let your religion be less of a theory and more of a love affair.” If there are sounds of a lively discussion, mixed with hearty laughter and the aroma of a good cigar, Father James can’t be too far way.
Founder and President Emeritus
The minute John walks through the door, your IQ goes up. He embodies the remarkable talent of grasping the bigger picture while juggling multiple points of view, in a world where many are very one-sided. Always happy, even when he is sad, John is ready to challenge and comfort all in the same breath. Where some only see problems, John sees the bright promise of tomorrow. His inspiration and memory will outlast his years on earth. John always says, “there are always miracles where there is great love.”