Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Sorry for so little posting over the last few days. It's been about nine days since my last decent post! Of course, over Thanksgiving week, I didn't have computer access, but I should have put up more yesterday and Monday.
Both days have actually been rather easy, especially yesterday. On Monday, besides watching a certain football game, I cleaned up my mess from crashing the night before, because I had been too tired to do much then. As well, I found the third volume of Solzhenitsyn's famous Archipelag Gulag (of which I read volumes I and II years ago) and have read the first few chapters since then. Yesterday, with so little to do, I decided to play Age of Empires II for the first time all semester. One minor problem I had is that, with the shape and size of this monitor, the game screen must be zoomed in more than the computer at home where I've always played it before.
I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but it's interesting: on the days when I have the least to do, I frequently post the least. I need to be a better blogger :-(
When I returned a few days ago from Thanksgiving break, I arrived in the room before Tony did. Imagine my surprise to find the blinds and part of the window frame on the floor, shattered! Immediately I set off to find the RA and the RD (the professional dorm resident), but neither one was in. However, when Tony arrived, he told me that the RD himself had brought down the blinds. Apparently, when the RD was trying to lower the blinds after everyone else had left, he discovered that what I had told him about poorly-functioning blinds was true. It is to be fixed soon, but it's not been done yet.
Without blinds, the window lets in plenty of light. This does not only include sunlight — the window faces the parking lot, so we get tons of car lights into the window. Therefore, yesterday, Tony and Micah Wright decided to put a sheet over the window!
Most importantly, I've printed my big fifteen-page term paper!
Both days have actually been rather easy, especially yesterday. On Monday, besides watching a certain football game, I cleaned up my mess from crashing the night before, because I had been too tired to do much then. As well, I found the third volume of Solzhenitsyn's famous Archipelag Gulag (of which I read volumes I and II years ago) and have read the first few chapters since then. Yesterday, with so little to do, I decided to play Age of Empires II for the first time all semester. One minor problem I had is that, with the shape and size of this monitor, the game screen must be zoomed in more than the computer at home where I've always played it before.
I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but it's interesting: on the days when I have the least to do, I frequently post the least. I need to be a better blogger :-(
When I returned a few days ago from Thanksgiving break, I arrived in the room before Tony did. Imagine my surprise to find the blinds and part of the window frame on the floor, shattered! Immediately I set off to find the RA and the RD (the professional dorm resident), but neither one was in. However, when Tony arrived, he told me that the RD himself had brought down the blinds. Apparently, when the RD was trying to lower the blinds after everyone else had left, he discovered that what I had told him about poorly-functioning blinds was true. It is to be fixed soon, but it's not been done yet.
Without blinds, the window lets in plenty of light. This does not only include sunlight — the window faces the parking lot, so we get tons of car lights into the window. Therefore, yesterday, Tony and Micah Wright decided to put a sheet over the window!
Most importantly, I've printed my big fifteen-page term paper!
Tropical Storm Epsilon has formed in the central Atlantic. This, the twenty-sixth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, is not expected to threaten anything except for shipping.
Time for bed. I'll hope to post more tomorrow (well, actually today, but you get the point).
Monday, November 28, 2005
16-7 Colts at halftime!
Sunday, November 27, 2005
Back. Tired. Had a good vacation. Got a lot of work done. Thanks to Katie for doing the ratings. Will post more tomorrow. Good night.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving!
Mom's family are celebrating Thanksgiving tonight at the house of a Mr. James Wilson, Mom's third brother. My uncle, aunt, and three cousins are being quite the hosts, providing tables, much food, games, and great hospitality. They, unlike my grandparents and another uncle next door to my grandparents', actually have Internet access.
Several notes:
I had hoped to post by audiopost, as has Katie several times. However, apparently I must pay to use this service, contrary to what I thought the site said. Any help, anyone?
Unless something surprising happen, I might not have any more Internet access until Monday, and at least none until the night before. Therefore, don't expect me to reply to anything sent or said before then.
Because I won't be able to be on for several more days, I will be unable to do the regular blog listings. Katie, will you please do it? Whether or not you can, when you read this, will you please comment to tell me whether or not? And lastly, if Katie cannot, will someone else volunteer for it? Thanks so much!
Mom's family are celebrating Thanksgiving tonight at the house of a Mr. James Wilson, Mom's third brother. My uncle, aunt, and three cousins are being quite the hosts, providing tables, much food, games, and great hospitality. They, unlike my grandparents and another uncle next door to my grandparents', actually have Internet access.
Several notes:
I had hoped to post by audiopost, as has Katie several times. However, apparently I must pay to use this service, contrary to what I thought the site said. Any help, anyone?
Unless something surprising happen, I might not have any more Internet access until Monday, and at least none until the night before. Therefore, don't expect me to reply to anything sent or said before then.
Because I won't be able to be on for several more days, I will be unable to do the regular blog listings. Katie, will you please do it? Whether or not you can, when you read this, will you please comment to tell me whether or not? And lastly, if Katie cannot, will someone else volunteer for it? Thanks so much!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Change of plans: I set up Audioblogger today, so I hope to be able to post with it throughout the week. We'll see how that goes...
Today, I'll be leaving for my grandparents' after my 3:00 humanities class. My parents are coming to stay Thanksgiving week with my Wilson grandparents, who live one county north of here. Because neither they nor my uncle and aunt nearby have Internet access, I will not be able to post the rest of the week. As well, I will be unable to be on instant messenger that whole time.
Besides that news, read this story from Fox News, which happened in a Cleveland suburb.
Into the Woods, Into the Woods
PAINESVILLE, Ohio (AP) — An animal rescuer who abandoned 35 kittens in two parks has been sentenced to a night in the woods without food or shelter.
Painesville Municipal Court Judge Michael A. Cicconetti, known for handing out unusual punishments, sentenced Michelle M. Murray to the spend the cold night alone when she begins her 15-day jail sentence next week.
"How would you like to be dumped off at a Metropark late at night, spend the night listening to the coyotes coming upon you, listening to the raccoons around you in the dark night, and sit out there in the cold not knowing where you're going to get your next meal, not knowing when you are going to be rescued?" the judge asked. "That's what you're going to do."
Murray, 25, pleaded guilty last month to abandoning domestic animals, a second-degree misdemeanor. The kittens were recovered but many had upper respiratory infections and nine died.
She apologized and has previously said she was experiencing family problems when she dumped the kittens.
Murray must report to jail Wednesday where a park ranger will drop her off at a remote location.
Cicconetti previously sentenced a man who called an officer a pig to stand on a city sidewalk for two hours in a pen next to a 350-pound hog along with a sign reading, "This is not a police officer."
Besides that news, read this story from Fox News, which happened in a Cleveland suburb.
Into the Woods, Into the Woods
PAINESVILLE, Ohio (AP) — An animal rescuer who abandoned 35 kittens in two parks has been sentenced to a night in the woods without food or shelter.
Painesville Municipal Court Judge Michael A. Cicconetti, known for handing out unusual punishments, sentenced Michelle M. Murray to the spend the cold night alone when she begins her 15-day jail sentence next week.
"How would you like to be dumped off at a Metropark late at night, spend the night listening to the coyotes coming upon you, listening to the raccoons around you in the dark night, and sit out there in the cold not knowing where you're going to get your next meal, not knowing when you are going to be rescued?" the judge asked. "That's what you're going to do."
Murray, 25, pleaded guilty last month to abandoning domestic animals, a second-degree misdemeanor. The kittens were recovered but many had upper respiratory infections and nine died.
She apologized and has previously said she was experiencing family problems when she dumped the kittens.
Murray must report to jail Wednesday where a park ranger will drop her off at a remote location.
Cicconetti previously sentenced a man who called an officer a pig to stand on a city sidewalk for two hours in a pen next to a 350-pound hog along with a sign reading, "This is not a police officer."
Monday, November 21, 2005
Sorry for not much of an update on the conference until now. First, however, I want to deal with Dr. Hemphill's services.
On Wednesday, I went with Mrs. Ruth Vos (daughter-in-law of the famous Dr. J. G. Vos) to the late visitation for Dr. Hemphill. Because we arrived early, I had a bit of spare time (much of which I used in work on my prophets paper for Bible), most of which I spent in the Home library. As well, I decided that I'd find Miss Grace Rhodes, a member of Rose Point RPC (my Wilson grandparents' home church) who lives at the Home. Miss Rhodes, it must be noted, is over ninety years old, but she looks as if she is in her early seventies. Anyway, I went to her door twice, although she was out — only to have her come into the library later! It was nice chatting with her. Shortly after that began the late visitation time. Before I left, I was able to speak with Mrs. Hemphill, her son Dr. Bruce Hemphill (pastor of Covenant Fellowship RP in eastern Pittsburgh), and her daughter (whose name I forget).
Thursday morning was Dr. Hemphill's funeral at the Home. Although I was unable to go, Amelia Ward assured me that it was wonderfully done and extremely faithful to the gospel. Dr. Hemphill was buried on Friday afternoon at Fairview Cemetery outside of Belle Center, with his son officiating. My parents helped by coördinating the family dinner, among other things.
On Friday afternoon, I left with Seth Wing, Avery Mann, and Brenda Gladfelter for the conference at Gibsonia. Speakers included Seminary Prof. Dr. Gamble, Seminary President Dr. O'Neill, and the Rev. Martin Blocki, associate pastor of North Hills RPC. Because the conference was organized by the Rev. Harry Metzger, senior pastor of North Hills, we saw plenty of him throughout the conference. The conference featured, among other things, transportation to North Hills for morning worship: my second time on the property, and my first time for worship there.
These last few days have been quite enjoyable as far as friends. Besides seeing the usual friends here on campus, I enjoyed seeing Ryan Cerbus at the conference, and I was able to talk with Rory for a good while after lunch today. However, I was most gratified to find Michael Fulk at the conference, because I had forgotten that he is now attending the Pittsburgh Art Institute. Quite surprising, however, was the revelation that Michael was living on the property where the conference was held.
I mustn't forget to mention: Ohio State beat Michigan 25-21!
On Wednesday, I went with Mrs. Ruth Vos (daughter-in-law of the famous Dr. J. G. Vos) to the late visitation for Dr. Hemphill. Because we arrived early, I had a bit of spare time (much of which I used in work on my prophets paper for Bible), most of which I spent in the Home library. As well, I decided that I'd find Miss Grace Rhodes, a member of Rose Point RPC (my Wilson grandparents' home church) who lives at the Home. Miss Rhodes, it must be noted, is over ninety years old, but she looks as if she is in her early seventies. Anyway, I went to her door twice, although she was out — only to have her come into the library later! It was nice chatting with her. Shortly after that began the late visitation time. Before I left, I was able to speak with Mrs. Hemphill, her son Dr. Bruce Hemphill (pastor of Covenant Fellowship RP in eastern Pittsburgh), and her daughter (whose name I forget).
Thursday morning was Dr. Hemphill's funeral at the Home. Although I was unable to go, Amelia Ward assured me that it was wonderfully done and extremely faithful to the gospel. Dr. Hemphill was buried on Friday afternoon at Fairview Cemetery outside of Belle Center, with his son officiating. My parents helped by coördinating the family dinner, among other things.
On Friday afternoon, I left with Seth Wing, Avery Mann, and Brenda Gladfelter for the conference at Gibsonia. Speakers included Seminary Prof. Dr. Gamble, Seminary President Dr. O'Neill, and the Rev. Martin Blocki, associate pastor of North Hills RPC. Because the conference was organized by the Rev. Harry Metzger, senior pastor of North Hills, we saw plenty of him throughout the conference. The conference featured, among other things, transportation to North Hills for morning worship: my second time on the property, and my first time for worship there.
These last few days have been quite enjoyable as far as friends. Besides seeing the usual friends here on campus, I enjoyed seeing Ryan Cerbus at the conference, and I was able to talk with Rory for a good while after lunch today. However, I was most gratified to find Michael Fulk at the conference, because I had forgotten that he is now attending the Pittsburgh Art Institute. Quite surprising, however, was the revelation that Michael was living on the property where the conference was held.
I mustn't forget to mention: Ohio State beat Michigan 25-21!
Sunday, November 20, 2005
More later...
BLOGS I was disappointed that so many people did not post. Should a non-poster hold ninth place?
1.
: 5 posts, on 5 days.
2.
: 5 posts, on 4 days.
3.
: 6 posts, on 4 days.
4.
: 3 posts, on 3 days. This includes one audio post.
5.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.
6.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.
7.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.
8.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.
9. Rebekah: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 12 November.
10.
: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 10 November.
11.
: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 31 October.
BLOGS I was disappointed that so many people did not post. Should a non-poster hold ninth place?
1.
: 5 posts, on 5 days.2.
: 5 posts, on 4 days.3.
: 6 posts, on 4 days.4.
: 3 posts, on 3 days. This includes one audio post.5.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.6.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.7.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.8.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.9. Rebekah: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 12 November.
10.
: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 10 November.11.
: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 31 October.Friday, November 18, 2005
Let me clarify: That sticky situation involved a friend of mine and some other people. I was not involved in it; I simply was aware of it.
I'm about to leave for "Strengthening Your Prayer Life," a college conference held this weekend at the Gibsonia property of the North Hills [Pittsburgh] RPC. I'm really looking forward to it, mainly because the speakers are Dr. Gamble, Seminary President Dr. O'Neill, and the Rev. Martin Blocki, along with the Rev. Harry Metzger leading the workshops. One nice feature of this conference is that I'll get to worship at North Hills congregation for the first time in my life. Of course, that means that I'll miss worship at Eastvale. Besides the simple fact that I won't be there, that means that I'll miss hearing the preaching of the Seminary Librarian, the Rev. Thomas G. Reid. Ah, well, otherwise I'd sacrifice seeing all of my friends, worshipping at North Hills, and hearing four other ministers, including Dr. Gamble.
No post will be made tomorrow. When I get back, I hope to post about Dr. Hemphill's visitation, among other things. Just a quick note about that: his funeral yesterday, according to those who attended it, was wonderfully done, with a clear gospel message. He was buried today at Belle Center, where he was born and raised.
I'm about to leave for "Strengthening Your Prayer Life," a college conference held this weekend at the Gibsonia property of the North Hills [Pittsburgh] RPC. I'm really looking forward to it, mainly because the speakers are Dr. Gamble, Seminary President Dr. O'Neill, and the Rev. Martin Blocki, along with the Rev. Harry Metzger leading the workshops. One nice feature of this conference is that I'll get to worship at North Hills congregation for the first time in my life. Of course, that means that I'll miss worship at Eastvale. Besides the simple fact that I won't be there, that means that I'll miss hearing the preaching of the Seminary Librarian, the Rev. Thomas G. Reid. Ah, well, otherwise I'd sacrifice seeing all of my friends, worshipping at North Hills, and hearing four other ministers, including Dr. Gamble.
No post will be made tomorrow. When I get back, I hope to post about Dr. Hemphill's visitation, among other things. Just a quick note about that: his funeral yesterday, according to those who attended it, was wonderfully done, with a clear gospel message. He was buried today at Belle Center, where he was born and raised.
Today was mostly a day of working on political science. Last week's POL midterm included a take-home portion that's due tomorrow (well, I guess officially today, judging by the clock). Normally, I would have had this done days ago, but I had five papers due this week, only one of which I had written by this time last week. As a result, I only finished work on that paper this evening. Now, all I must complete is my paper for the Learning and Transition class that's due on Monday morning.
Updates: That sticky situation with someone whom I knew on campus has been resolved rather peacefully. Although there was some unhappiness, all parties appear to be okay with the situation.
My aunt is doing much better; she's out of the hospital and improving. Thanks for your prayers!
This week, I arranged my schedule for next semester. Here it is, for all of you who are curious:
• Monday: 1115-1210 SCS 110 Lecture [Introduction to Natural Sciences]; 1220-1315 HIS 201 [Introduction to History]; 1325-1420 HUM 203 Lecture [Humanities].
• Tuesday: 800-920 BIB 152 [Honors New Testament]; 930-1025 PHY 103 [Physical Education]
• Wednesday: 1115-1210 SCS 110 Lecture; 1220-1315 HIS 201; 1430-1525 HUM 203 Discussion
• Thursday: 800-920 BIB 152; 930-1025 PHY 103; 1400-1655 SCS 110 Lab
• Friday: 1115-1210 SCS 110 Lecture; 1220-1315 HIS 201; 1325-1420 HUM 203 Lecture
Updates: That sticky situation with someone whom I knew on campus has been resolved rather peacefully. Although there was some unhappiness, all parties appear to be okay with the situation.
My aunt is doing much better; she's out of the hospital and improving. Thanks for your prayers!
This week, I arranged my schedule for next semester. Here it is, for all of you who are curious:
• Monday: 1115-1210 SCS 110 Lecture [Introduction to Natural Sciences]; 1220-1315 HIS 201 [Introduction to History]; 1325-1420 HUM 203 Lecture [Humanities].
• Tuesday: 800-920 BIB 152 [Honors New Testament]; 930-1025 PHY 103 [Physical Education]
• Wednesday: 1115-1210 SCS 110 Lecture; 1220-1315 HIS 201; 1430-1525 HUM 203 Discussion
• Thursday: 800-920 BIB 152; 930-1025 PHY 103; 1400-1655 SCS 110 Lab
• Friday: 1115-1210 SCS 110 Lecture; 1220-1315 HIS 201; 1325-1420 HUM 203 Lecture
Thursday, November 17, 2005
Snow is officially falling in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania.
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Tonight, I went to the usual Dessert & Devotions program held by Matt Filbert, the Geneva clerk of session. After a while of talking and singing, I decided to leave to talk with Mr. Caskey, one of the retired ministers on our session, for a few minutes. I ended up staying for over an hour! Mr. Caskey was planning to go to bed soon, but he was happy to talk with me. I learned a great deal.
After the evening worship this week, I rode back to the dorm with Mr. and Mrs. McMillan (Mr. McMillan is another of the retired ministers). Along the way, I discussed with them the idea of doing an evangelistic Bible study, an idea that Mr. McMillan endorsed. This was the subject of my talking tonight with Mr. Caskey, although I learned many other things as well. Among others, he gave me a better sense of the congregation's views and position in the community — essential when doing outreach!
If my idea were to be attempted, we would set up Bible studies, to be run by an elder or a rotation of elders, focussed mostly on evangelism in the community. I would like to see other students helping to do a door-to-door campaign of trying to get people to come, using such methods as fliers, talking with people, etc. I'd like to be able to try to include both Eastvale residents and Beaver Falls residents. Hopefully, we will be able to see people showing up and people being saved by the blood of Christ. Pray for us!
After the evening worship this week, I rode back to the dorm with Mr. and Mrs. McMillan (Mr. McMillan is another of the retired ministers). Along the way, I discussed with them the idea of doing an evangelistic Bible study, an idea that Mr. McMillan endorsed. This was the subject of my talking tonight with Mr. Caskey, although I learned many other things as well. Among others, he gave me a better sense of the congregation's views and position in the community — essential when doing outreach!
If my idea were to be attempted, we would set up Bible studies, to be run by an elder or a rotation of elders, focussed mostly on evangelism in the community. I would like to see other students helping to do a door-to-door campaign of trying to get people to come, using such methods as fliers, talking with people, etc. I'd like to be able to try to include both Eastvale residents and Beaver Falls residents. Hopefully, we will be able to see people showing up and people being saved by the blood of Christ. Pray for us!
Tuesday, November 15, 2005
HEMPHILL
REV. (ERNEST) RAYMOND, D.D.
On Saturday, November 12, 2005, Rev. (Ernest) Raymond Hemphill, D.D. Beloved husband of Jennie C. Hemphill; father of Alan Hemphill, M.D. of CO, Bruce C. Hemphill, PhD and Beth H. Marshall of CO; brother of Robert Hemphill and Marguerite Dean, both of Beaver Falls and the late Willard and Penny Hemphill; also survived by 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Friends received on Wednesday from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. at the Reformed Presbyterian Home, 2344 Perrysville Ave., where service will be held on Thursday at 10 a.m. Interment to follow on Friday in Fairview Cemetery, Bellecenter, OH. Arrangements by
SIMONS FUNERAL HOME, INC.
www.simonsfuneralhomeinc.com
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
Published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on 11/15/2005.
That is Dr. Hemphill's obituary in today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. There are two errors. "Bellecenter" is obvious, and he was preceded in death by three (not two) brothers: Willard, Wendell, and Kenny (not Penny).
Please pray for my schedule in the next few days, as I'm to be rather busy. Tonight I'm to go to the session meeting to present the church directory (several elders have approved it, but the session hasn't officially). I made arrangements to go tomorrow evening to Dr. Hemphill's visitation at the Home. Thursday, I have Treasure Diggers, our children's ministry. Friday evening is the start of a weekend-long conference at the Gibsonia property of North Hills RP in Pittsburgh, from which I won't return until after worshipping at North Hills. And I have two papers due on Friday and one on Monday.
I must remember: it could be worse. Please pray for Katie as she is to be extremely busy with orchestra practice for this weekend's Southport High School musical. Can you imagine being at school for twelve hours per day for a whole week? And if that isn't enough, can you imagine having three tests in the same week? I don't think my workload can compare to that.
REV. (ERNEST) RAYMOND, D.D.
On Saturday, November 12, 2005, Rev. (Ernest) Raymond Hemphill, D.D. Beloved husband of Jennie C. Hemphill; father of Alan Hemphill, M.D. of CO, Bruce C. Hemphill, PhD and Beth H. Marshall of CO; brother of Robert Hemphill and Marguerite Dean, both of Beaver Falls and the late Willard and Penny Hemphill; also survived by 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Friends received on Wednesday from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. at the Reformed Presbyterian Home, 2344 Perrysville Ave., where service will be held on Thursday at 10 a.m. Interment to follow on Friday in Fairview Cemetery, Bellecenter, OH. Arrangements by
SIMONS FUNERAL HOME, INC.
www.simonsfuneralhomeinc.com
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
Published in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on 11/15/2005.
That is Dr. Hemphill's obituary in today's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. There are two errors. "Bellecenter" is obvious, and he was preceded in death by three (not two) brothers: Willard, Wendell, and Kenny (not Penny).
Please pray for my schedule in the next few days, as I'm to be rather busy. Tonight I'm to go to the session meeting to present the church directory (several elders have approved it, but the session hasn't officially). I made arrangements to go tomorrow evening to Dr. Hemphill's visitation at the Home. Thursday, I have Treasure Diggers, our children's ministry. Friday evening is the start of a weekend-long conference at the Gibsonia property of North Hills RP in Pittsburgh, from which I won't return until after worshipping at North Hills. And I have two papers due on Friday and one on Monday.
I must remember: it could be worse. Please pray for Katie as she is to be extremely busy with orchestra practice for this weekend's Southport High School musical. Can you imagine being at school for twelve hours per day for a whole week? And if that isn't enough, can you imagine having three tests in the same week? I don't think my workload can compare to that.
Monday, November 14, 2005
Busy.
Sunday, November 13, 2005
Today, our preacher was the Rev. Dr. Prof. Jonathan Watt, Professor of Biblical Studies at Geneva College and the current Moderator of the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America. Now, after that introduction, I'll stop boring you :-)
Dr. Watt preached from three passages (II Tim. 1:8 and two passages I can't remember; it may be somewhere in Acts) on the three callings that we have as Christians. These callings are, as he listed them by order of importance, are (1) to repent of sin and to submit to Christ; (2) to have a Christian character; (3) to live like Christians.
Attendance was good, with 36 people showing up, even though Mr. Harkins, the Warrens, and Jed Wallace weren't there. Dr. Carson, however, was able to be there; he said that his mouth still hurts, but he is obviously doing somewhat better. One reason for the good attendance was that we had several visitors: Dr. and Mrs. Watt and one of their sons and two girls from Treasure Diggers. Most interesting, however, was that Tony decided to visit for once. This was mostly to see people: he hadn't heard Dr. Watt preaching in a long time, and we have two members (Mrs. Carson, daughter of the Rev. W. W. Weir, and Mr. Caskey, son of the Rev. Cloyd Caskey) who grew up as RP missionary children in Cyprus.
I took a draft copy of the new directory to church, where it got positive reviews. However, there were a couple of mistakes: I mistyped a phone number (easy to do), and I misspelled an email address. That doesn't sound bad until you realize that it's the Dymond family's, and their email includes their last name, which I spelled Dymon.
BLOGS When was the last time that everyone on the list posted? After a bit of searching in archives, I found the answer: the last time that happened was the week of 14 August, ¼ of a year ago!
1.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.
2.
: 4 posts, on 3 days.
3.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.
4.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.
5.
: 3 posts, on 2 days.
6.
: 1 posts, on 1 days. That was actually last week's post, but I didn't find out until this week.
7.: 1 posts, on 1 days.
8.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.
9.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.
10.
: 1 posts, on 1 days. I based that off her Xanga, since my computer won't let me look at her Blogger site.
11. Rebekah: 1 posts, on 1 days.
Dr. Watt preached from three passages (II Tim. 1:8 and two passages I can't remember; it may be somewhere in Acts) on the three callings that we have as Christians. These callings are, as he listed them by order of importance, are (1) to repent of sin and to submit to Christ; (2) to have a Christian character; (3) to live like Christians.
Attendance was good, with 36 people showing up, even though Mr. Harkins, the Warrens, and Jed Wallace weren't there. Dr. Carson, however, was able to be there; he said that his mouth still hurts, but he is obviously doing somewhat better. One reason for the good attendance was that we had several visitors: Dr. and Mrs. Watt and one of their sons and two girls from Treasure Diggers. Most interesting, however, was that Tony decided to visit for once. This was mostly to see people: he hadn't heard Dr. Watt preaching in a long time, and we have two members (Mrs. Carson, daughter of the Rev. W. W. Weir, and Mr. Caskey, son of the Rev. Cloyd Caskey) who grew up as RP missionary children in Cyprus.
I took a draft copy of the new directory to church, where it got positive reviews. However, there were a couple of mistakes: I mistyped a phone number (easy to do), and I misspelled an email address. That doesn't sound bad until you realize that it's the Dymond family's, and their email includes their last name, which I spelled Dymon.
BLOGS When was the last time that everyone on the list posted? After a bit of searching in archives, I found the answer: the last time that happened was the week of 14 August, ¼ of a year ago!
1.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.2.
: 4 posts, on 3 days.3.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.4.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.5.
: 3 posts, on 2 days.6.
: 1 posts, on 1 days. That was actually last week's post, but I didn't find out until this week.7.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.8.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.9.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.10.
: 1 posts, on 1 days. I based that off her Xanga, since my computer won't let me look at her Blogger site.11. Rebekah: 1 posts, on 1 days.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
"God is our refuge and our strength;/In straits a present aid,/And therefore, though the earth remove/We will not be afraid./Though hills amid the seas be cast,/Though troubled waters roar;/Yea, though the swelling billows shake/The mountains on the shore." Psalm 46:1-3.
"Because this God will be our God/Through all eternity./Yes, even on through death itself/Our constant guide is He." Psalm 48:14.
"So now, when I am old and gray,/O God, forsake me not/Until Thy strength and power I have/Each generation taught./O God, Thy righteousness extends/Into infinity;/And Thou hast wrought such miracles,/O God, who is like Thee?" Psalm 71:18-19.
"Yet evermore I am with Thee:/Thou holdest me by Thy right hand./And Thou, ev'n Thou, my guide shalt be;/Thy counsel shall my way command;/And afterward in glory bright/Shalt Thou receive me to Thy sight." Psalm 73:23-24.
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25-26.
Tonight, I spoke with Dad, who told me that Dr. Hemphill passed away at about 5 PM today. I'll stop now and let his son, the Rev. Bruce Hemphill, tell you, through his email on Covienet.
E. Raymond Hemphill died late this afternoon; his wife of 65 years, Jennie, was alone in the room with him. His last struggle was mercifully brief, and his battle with pain is over. At the age of 94, he was, in the Biblical phrase, in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people.
He has left his mark in the lives of many people and several churches in the States and in Japan. His legacy is one of faithfulness and diligence for the kingdom of Christ, a life well lived in the service of others. His family will miss him greatly, but we happily release him to that home prepared for him which he has long desired. His own father died in a flu epidemic when he was only eight, and I can imagine they're having an emotional reunion there before the throne of the Lamb this evening.
"Because this God will be our God/Through all eternity./Yes, even on through death itself/Our constant guide is He." Psalm 48:14.
"So now, when I am old and gray,/O God, forsake me not/Until Thy strength and power I have/Each generation taught./O God, Thy righteousness extends/Into infinity;/And Thou hast wrought such miracles,/O God, who is like Thee?" Psalm 71:18-19.
"Yet evermore I am with Thee:/Thou holdest me by Thy right hand./And Thou, ev'n Thou, my guide shalt be;/Thy counsel shall my way command;/And afterward in glory bright/Shalt Thou receive me to Thy sight." Psalm 73:23-24.
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die." John 11:25-26.
Tonight, I spoke with Dad, who told me that Dr. Hemphill passed away at about 5 PM today. I'll stop now and let his son, the Rev. Bruce Hemphill, tell you, through his email on Covienet.
E. Raymond Hemphill died late this afternoon; his wife of 65 years, Jennie, was alone in the room with him. His last struggle was mercifully brief, and his battle with pain is over. At the age of 94, he was, in the Biblical phrase, in a good old age, an old man, and full of years; and was gathered to his people.
He has left his mark in the lives of many people and several churches in the States and in Japan. His legacy is one of faithfulness and diligence for the kingdom of Christ, a life well lived in the service of others. His family will miss him greatly, but we happily release him to that home prepared for him which he has long desired. His own father died in a flu epidemic when he was only eight, and I can imagine they're having an emotional reunion there before the throne of the Lamb this evening.
Friday, November 11, 2005
Dad has told me that doctors expect the Rev. E. Raymond Hemphill, about whom I posted last week, to pass away before Thanksgiving.
Please pray for my big political science midterm at 9 AM today!
Tuesday, November 08, 2005
Please pray for my aunt, Debbie Pockras. She's about to go into the hospital with a possible blood infection. I just talked with her and found that, although this could be a serious infection, she isn't feeling too bad. Please pray that, when lab results are returned tomorrow, the treatment might be effective very quickly.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Please pray for a friend of mine here on campus who is in a rather difficult situation. I can't post more online (if a certain person saw details on here and realized that I knew what was going on, my friend would have worse problems), but I can discuss this by instant messenger if you want.
Sunday, November 06, 2005
Today's sermon was preached by Dr. Edward Robson, the retired RPTS professor who's preached for us several times before. He didn't use a single passage of Scripture; his sermon was on eyes. Because he has had eye problems, he was focusing on the eye as it relates to major themes throughout the Bible. Before this sermon, I had thought of almost nothing that he mentioned. What a useful sermon!
Church today was very good, both the standard forty-five minutes of College Hill and everything at Eastvale. Usually, Pastor Selvaggio's sermon is just beginning or hasn't begun yet when I need to leave College Hill at 9:30 (to get to Eastvale by 9:45), but today the sermon (on Mary, Jesus, and the perfume in John 12) began at 9:10. As well, today I decided to sit on the edge of the main seating at College Hill, instead of sitting in the back. Singing sounds much better! Furthermore, Eastvale was really good, as well: we had an interesting and useful sermon, we had our usual monthly lunch, Tricia came (bringing Brenda along) to speak before the service on her mission team experience in Galway. What's more, between Tricia and Brenda visiting, and several people coming who haven't been able to come much recently, we had thirty-eight people there this morning. That's at least as good of attendance as we averaged at Belle Center until the past couple of years. A pity that this was quite above average, but oh well...
1.: 6 posts, on 4 days. This doesn't count a duplicate post.
2.: 6 posts, on 5 days.
3.: 3 posts, on 3 days.
4.: 3 posts, on 3 days.
5.: 3 posts, on 3 days.
6.: 3 posts, on 3 days.
7.: 2 posts, on 2 days.
8.: 1 posts, on 1 days.
9.: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 24 October.
10. Rebekah: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 14 October.
has been dropped for a lack of posting. He will be reinstated upon publication of more posts.
Church today was very good, both the standard forty-five minutes of College Hill and everything at Eastvale. Usually, Pastor Selvaggio's sermon is just beginning or hasn't begun yet when I need to leave College Hill at 9:30 (to get to Eastvale by 9:45), but today the sermon (on Mary, Jesus, and the perfume in John 12) began at 9:10. As well, today I decided to sit on the edge of the main seating at College Hill, instead of sitting in the back. Singing sounds much better! Furthermore, Eastvale was really good, as well: we had an interesting and useful sermon, we had our usual monthly lunch, Tricia came (bringing Brenda along) to speak before the service on her mission team experience in Galway. What's more, between Tricia and Brenda visiting, and several people coming who haven't been able to come much recently, we had thirty-eight people there this morning. That's at least as good of attendance as we averaged at Belle Center until the past couple of years. A pity that this was quite above average, but oh well...
1.
: 6 posts, on 4 days. This doesn't count a duplicate post.2.
: 6 posts, on 5 days.3.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.4.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.5.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.6.
: 3 posts, on 3 days.7.
: 2 posts, on 2 days.8.
: 1 posts, on 1 days.9.
: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 24 October.10. Rebekah: 0 posts, on 0 days. Last post 14 October.
has been dropped for a lack of posting. He will be reinstated upon publication of more posts.Saturday, November 05, 2005
Good night!
Friday, November 04, 2005
Today has gone generally well. Tonight, meanwhile, is what's being called the Redneck Dinner, in the Skye Lounge. I'm planning to go, but only because it's being billed as exciting. Let's see how it will turn out.
English class today looked at source materials. For me as a historian, this session was quite useful, especially because we considered the location of certain important documents in the college's McCartney Library. What a useful class today!
Here is a message that came in the email via Covienet at 10 AM today. It was written by the Rev. Bruce Hemphill, pastor of Covenant Fellowship in Pittsburgh.
To all of you who know and respect Ray Hemphill:
I am writing to let you know that my father has been diagnosed this week with cancer in his lungs. It appears to be in an advanced stage. We don’t know for sure what kind it is because we have decided not to pursue all of the tests necessary for a definitive diagnoses, but the lung specialist has called it a probable bronchial alveolar lesion. In addition there are enlarged lymph nodes in his abdomen of unknown etiology which may be cancer also. Dad has returned from the hospital to the nursing unit of the R.P. Home. He is resting easily and does not appear to be in much distress from the lung lesion. He does continue to have severe pain in his lower back from spinal stenosis. He accepts this news with a calm and sure faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He does not see that he has any more work to do for the Lord now, and is ready to go to his fathers. He believes that resurrection beats death every time. Dad and Mother's address is: 2344 Perrysville Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15214, if you would be inclined to send a card or note to them.
Bruce Hemphill
English class today looked at source materials. For me as a historian, this session was quite useful, especially because we considered the location of certain important documents in the college's McCartney Library. What a useful class today!
Here is a message that came in the email via Covienet at 10 AM today. It was written by the Rev. Bruce Hemphill, pastor of Covenant Fellowship in Pittsburgh.
To all of you who know and respect Ray Hemphill:
I am writing to let you know that my father has been diagnosed this week with cancer in his lungs. It appears to be in an advanced stage. We don’t know for sure what kind it is because we have decided not to pursue all of the tests necessary for a definitive diagnoses, but the lung specialist has called it a probable bronchial alveolar lesion. In addition there are enlarged lymph nodes in his abdomen of unknown etiology which may be cancer also. Dad has returned from the hospital to the nursing unit of the R.P. Home. He is resting easily and does not appear to be in much distress from the lung lesion. He does continue to have severe pain in his lower back from spinal stenosis. He accepts this news with a calm and sure faith in the gospel of Jesus Christ. He does not see that he has any more work to do for the Lord now, and is ready to go to his fathers. He believes that resurrection beats death every time. Dad and Mother's address is: 2344 Perrysville Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15214, if you would be inclined to send a card or note to them.
Bruce Hemphill
Thursday, November 03, 2005
Today I had an absolutely wonderful Bible class, as we considered the Psalms for the second straight class. Today, we looked closely at the meaning of specific psalms, especially 22. What a time! For a long time, I had understood how Psalm 22 speaks to the sufferings of Christ. However, I'd not thought of the manner in which it speaks to his exultation. As Dr. Smith pointed mentioned, the prestigious Keil-Delitzsche commentary remarks that the end of the psalm could be paraphrased, "It is finished!" What a glorious ending to such a difficult psalm!
Psalm 73 was closely considered as well. We used it as an illustration of how people question God's justice: not only do bad things happen to good people, but good things happen to bad people. Although the first ⅔ of the psalm is very difficult, verses 23 and 24 are one of the most comforting passages in the Bible: "Yet evermore I am with Thee;/Thou holdest me by my right hand./And Thou, e'en Thou, my guide shalt be;/Thy counsel shall my way command./And afterwards in glory bright/Shalt Thou receive me to Thy sight." (This may be just speculation, but it's possibly significant) Notice that in the imagery God holds us by our right hand, using his left. He leaves his right hand open — and it is the right hand that is used for defense. God holds us, not only to keep enemies from taking us away, but also to keep us from running away.
Over the last couple of years, Dr. Smith has seen plenty of trials and pains. As someone said to him recently, after one such trial, "This hurts like hell!" Dr. Smith mentioned this in class, not to get us emotionally excited by the use of such language, but to remind us of the hellish nature of our problems. Sometimes, we face difficulty and frustration, as is ultimately faced by those in hell. Furthermore, sometimes we feel completely isolated from God; what could be more like hell than isolation from God? How wonderful it is that, despite our feelings at some times, God is faithful to preserve us from all of his and our enemies.
Psalm 73 was closely considered as well. We used it as an illustration of how people question God's justice: not only do bad things happen to good people, but good things happen to bad people. Although the first ⅔ of the psalm is very difficult, verses 23 and 24 are one of the most comforting passages in the Bible: "Yet evermore I am with Thee;/Thou holdest me by my right hand./And Thou, e'en Thou, my guide shalt be;/Thy counsel shall my way command./And afterwards in glory bright/Shalt Thou receive me to Thy sight." (This may be just speculation, but it's possibly significant) Notice that in the imagery God holds us by our right hand, using his left. He leaves his right hand open — and it is the right hand that is used for defense. God holds us, not only to keep enemies from taking us away, but also to keep us from running away.
Over the last couple of years, Dr. Smith has seen plenty of trials and pains. As someone said to him recently, after one such trial, "This hurts like hell!" Dr. Smith mentioned this in class, not to get us emotionally excited by the use of such language, but to remind us of the hellish nature of our problems. Sometimes, we face difficulty and frustration, as is ultimately faced by those in hell. Furthermore, sometimes we feel completely isolated from God; what could be more like hell than isolation from God? How wonderful it is that, despite our feelings at some times, God is faithful to preserve us from all of his and our enemies.
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Sorry for no decent posts since the weekend. I've been rather busy; among other things, I wrote a five-page history paper and did a bit of Bible work.
Today, as other days, has gone well. Classes were usual, except for history where Prof. Werthmuller asked me to read a passage from Beowulf in the original. He even had people applaud when I was done :-)
On Monday, I made a great discovery, thanks to Dr. David Carson. By his knowledge, I found copies of the Minutes of Synod (back to 1862) on the open, checkable-outable shelves. I had never known that the library had any copies of the Minutes, other than the ones in the almost-inaccessible Covenanter Collection.
Today, as other days, has gone well. Classes were usual, except for history where Prof. Werthmuller asked me to read a passage from Beowulf in the original. He even had people applaud when I was done :-)
On Monday, I made a great discovery, thanks to Dr. David Carson. By his knowledge, I found copies of the Minutes of Synod (back to 1862) on the open, checkable-outable shelves. I had never known that the library had any copies of the Minutes, other than the ones in the almost-inaccessible Covenanter Collection.
It's too late. I should have been in bed an hour ago. I'll be napping tomorrow for sure.
