CHICAGO, IL (June 4, 2007) – Hardly a week goes by that we do not receive a few comments from readers on stories published as part of the Covenant online news report.
We will share from time to time some of those responses generated through the “comments” link attached to each published story. This kind of feedback is very helpful to our Covenant News Service staff as we seek to identify and publish stories of great interest to a broad spectrum of online readers of this report.
Following are comments relating to recently published stories, edited in some cases for length. To read a particular story of interest, click on the headline.
Grandmothers Connection Thriving in Colorado
Eileen Maelzer of Loveland, CO, writes: I am the author of this story and found your article concluded with an email address for more information – however, that email address is out of date. The correct one is eileenmaelzer@msn.com.
Editor’s note: The email address on the original story has been updated.
Ann Louise Thyreen of Gulfport, FL, writes: I read books on tape to my grandsons in Minnesota. I also send the book so they can follow along as I talk about the pictures and react to what I’m reading.
Marilyn Moore of Somerville, MA, writes: Wonderful project. We met at the last Triennial in Portland. Our church in Lexington (MA) had a chance to host the Maelzers when they were here for the birth of their first grandchild. I had the pleasure of being a guest in the Maelzer’s home two years ago for about a week following The Feast and the Annual Meeting in Keystone (CO), waiting for my van to be repaired in Kansas. A buck had decided to take my van out of action on I-70 at Salina on the way to Keystone. Eileen and her dear hubby, Gary, were kind enough to host me after Keystone until the repairs were completed. They both have the wonderful gift of hospitality as well. God bless, and many thanks again to both of them.
Covenant Pastor Named Naval Chaplain of the Year
Ernest Berkas of Dearborn, MI, writes: An excellent story for Memorial Day. We are thankful to Covenant chaplains. We look forward to hearing more from him.
Youth Group Named Volunteers of the Year
Shirley Hacker of Rockford, IL, writes: This is an inspiring story – young people enjoying serving! I am sure God is blessing them and it will become a way of life for them.
Bare Bookshelves to Help Overseas Pastors
Phyllis Porcelly of Venice, FL, writes: I may have some books that you could use. Please contact me to let me know if you want to have them.
First Covenant Omaha Celebrates 125 Years of Ministry
Lois Pamp Swanson of Sacramento, CA, writes: My father, Frederic E. Pamp, was the minister of First Church Omaha from about 1913 to 1920 with my mother, Sanna Hagstrom Pamp. Eunice Pamp, Alice Pamp Jacobson, Frederic E. Pamp Jr. and Phyllis Pamp Kuehne all were born in Omaha, as were my sons, Mark Wesley Swanson and Mitchell Lee Swanson. My husband, Wesley A. Swanson, and I pastored at Bensonvale Covenant Church from 1952 to 1957. So we have a long history with First Covenant. There are many happy memories of our times in Omaha with Rev. William Freeman and family. I also have a set of hand-painted dishes made for my mother by a Mrs. Comfort and given to her in Omaha. I would like to know more about Mrs. Comfort. Also there was a beautiful quilt that had names of those who served in World War I that I remember was made by women of Omaha First Covenant – I believe that my mother gave it to the church. Congratulations to you all and thanks for starting the Bensonvale Church so that we could make many friends and serve there.
Celebration Turns to Tragedy in Congo
Geraldine Wallace of North Easton, MA, writes: My husband and I were so deeply sorry for the immeasurable loss for those families in the Congo. Just a thought – maybe too complex – but Vacation Bible Schools are soon to start and maybe there is an opportunity to collect funds for a lasting, living memorial to these young people.
Sarah Thontwa of Chicago, IL, writes: My thoughts and prayers go to families and friends during this time of sorrow.
Donna Halleran of East Bridgewater, MA, writes: I am so saddened by the news of the youth choir tragedy. I continue to pray for the family and friends of the youth and church volunteers and leaders.
Marilyn Moore of Somerville, MA, writes: Our hearts are filled with grief for our Congolese brothers and sisters and their families. This is such a tragedy, especially at this time of year. We are in pain for them as well as the youth leadership and adult leadership of the CEUM with whom we have become good friends. May our wonderful God of all comfort give them peace in their hearts during this tragic time.
How to Build a Church ‘For a Song’
Kyle Small of Chanhassen, MN, writes: Andrew is an incredible musician. In seminary he incorporated the cry of Jonah into a masterfully fun piece, and shared it with our Hebrew class. His ability to weave together God’s narrative with our narratives is quite powerful. Is there a way to post a selection of the music on the website, so that interested folk can get a feel for the music? It might even spur on more sales.
This Church Got Its Two-Cents Worth!
Shirley Hacker of Rockford, IL, writes: Great, inspirational story – an easy way to get out of our church walls into the community to touch people and make a difference!
Alaska Pastor Takes Issue With Article on Suicide
Todd Chasteen of Blowing Rock, NC, writes: Mr. Funk hits the nail on the head. He is not talking theory, but a living reality of the positions he espouses. I have personally observed the impact he is having in the village at Hooper Bay.
Older Stories
Occasionally we receive comments about stories published some time ago. Most often, readers come across them while topically perusing search engines or when visiting the online Covenant News Archive maintained by Covenant News Service. We appreciate reader comments at any time about any story that has appeared as part of our online Covenant news report.
Covenant Bible College to Close
Cheryl Friendt of Maplewood, MN, writes: Although I am very saddened at the news of CBC closing, I think that Paul Lessard did a wonderful job of telling the story of such a wonderful and unique place. I, like many others, have very fond memories of my year spent in Colorado, and I will never forget what God did to me and through me. I am sad to think that no one else will experience the intense and invigorating time that is spent within the academic year at CBC – it is a bittersweet feeling to have experienced it for myself. I know that the stories and experiences will live on in years to come, as we share our memories with those around us.
Swedish Lutherans, Mission Covenant Sign Worship Agreement
Oscar Tundashungu of London, United Kingdom, writes: I am looking for Pastor Oscar Strenstrom. He was a long time ago in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa (1957-1960) and was from Mission Covenant Church. He was a director for my dad when he worked in Kimpease. I want to give my testimony, but it has been up to 35 years ago. If anyone can help, please do not hesitate to contact me.
‘No Ordinary Day’ for Surprise Guest at CHIC
Brent Zweigle of Austin, TX, writes: Wow, that was a Kingdom of God moment. I praise God that Zack had an opportunity to go to CHIC. I remember when I went my junior year of 2001 – I didn’t want to leave Knoxville. The spirit of Jesus was on campus. Zack and I have one thing in common – we both had cancer. I have been in remission now for five years. I understand the battle that this warrior is going through. Keep up the fight Zack.
From Partygoer to Pastor: the Long Road Back
Amy Scholta-Ruedas of Victorville, CA, writes: This story really touched me! I am a former neighbor, classmate and friend of Lance’s. My family moved away from Oklahoma City and eventually Lance and I lost contact, but I have thought about Lance a million times. I heard he is now a pastor, but never knew the story behind his coming back from the dark side. Good for you, Lance! Good bless.
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