What’s New

Toward the end of another year of IVC service, it might be time to reflect again on what it’s all about. We serve. We gather. We share. We learn.We pray. We grow. And we serve again. The cycle is endless . . . and it’sintended to be so. Why? Well, two things come...

(For all those lost on the cold hard streets of the city) Knocking at the steel door unable to rise from the prison of my wheel chair I grimaced through teeth that had stained by years of indulgence and neglect My yellowing eyes full of sorrow and distress were...

In last chapter of “The Joy of the Gospel” Pope Francis wants to inspire us, to put us on to a spirituality that might carry us through the rough slog that being an apostle of evangelization can be. Inspire is a good word for this chapter and for this month when we...

The Christian world prayed, celebrated and greeted Easter Sunday with joy and exuberance. In addition to special liturgies there were eggs hunts, chocolates galore and tables abundant with the foods of spring. Then it was Monday and for many it was business and school...

Jesus said that he wanted his joy to be in others. (John 15.11) Can we “give” experiences of joy to people, or, can anyone cause another to become joyful? While we might not literally be able to take our joy and directly initiate the same response in someone else,...

by Louise Sandberg A tearful woman said, "I wasn't going to come when I saw the snow, but I knew I had to be here. I had to do this for ME." I feel her intensity, her pain, as she struggles to articulate the chasm between herself and her spouse. This retreat on...

What's in a name? In our culture, a lot.  We are encouraged to "go make a name for yourself" or to "see my name in lights".  To do so means success and accomplishment. In contrast, as Christians we learn that to be called by name is not about fame, riches, or worldly...

“He’s just not that into you!” Wasn’t that a title of a popular book a few years ago? I never read it but according to talk shows it was a blunt awakening intended to let folks know that if they’re being strung along by a hoped for love, with no commitment—the reality...