The following questions and answers are intended to promote personal reflection. They are theological or philosophical beginnings, not endings . . .
Q: What is life’s purpose?
A: To grow closer to God; to achieve spiritual healing and wholeness.
 
Q: How can I experience spiritual growth?
A: By accepting God’s love into your heart; by offering unconditional love and [...]

Q: What prayers are most useful?
A: “Ask to be a servant of the Lord, a vehicle of Divine love, and a channel of God’s will. Ask for direction and Divine assistance, and surrender all personal will through devotion. Dedicate one’s life to the service of God. Choose love and peace above all other options. Commit [...]

Is it possible that, after death, one’s relationship with God can be improved? Among Christian religions, only the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican-Episcopal Church, and certain Orthodox churches believe that, after the body’s death, one’s Soul may be “purified” in preparation to enter Heaven. However, Judaism also teaches that purification of the Soul might be [...]

According to David Hawkins, MD, PhD the ego can be viewed as a set of entrenched, negative habits of thought. The ego, for example, may suggest that you’re a victim and urge the expression of fear, anger, lack, jealousy, or revenge. Negativity becomes reinforced by repetition and by the consensus of society. Yet, he points out [...]

After reflecting on what might interest a group of social workers, bereavement counselors, and fellow chaplains at Hospice of Dayton, I decided to talk about religion’s influence on anxieties faced by terminally ill patients. I’m happy to share this presentation with you. This is the second of two installments, and it unfolds largely as a [...]

I’ve been asked to speak to a number of my colleagues at Hospice of Dayton. After reflecting on what might interest a group of social workers, bereavement counselors, and fellow chaplains, I decided to talk about religion’s influence on anxieties faced by terminally ill patients. I’m happy to share this presentation with you. Due to [...]

I’m excited to finally write a new blog. Six months ago, I took a much needed break in order to complete the last requirements for a graduate degree in Theology. So for my first post in a long while, I opted to reflect on the familiar words “In God we trust.” Why not? After all, [...]

A short time ago, I was asked to speak at a memorial service hosted by Hospice of Dayton. As a staff chaplain for HOD, I’m honored to take my turn fulfilling assignments like this. Everyone in attendance had recently lost a loved one who had chosen Hospice of Dayton for end-of-life care. This post offers [...]

Timeless wisdom – it’s still a beautiful thing!
We can reflect on wisdom’s truth and grace while welcoming the New Year.
To understand everything is to forgive everything.
Gautama Buddha
There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth: not going all the way, and not starting.
Gautama Buddha
Thousands of candles can be lit from a [...]

For my final blog of 2009, I’ve decided to share the brief opening remarks and prayer I offered for Hospice of Dayton’s holiday memorial tribute and tree lighting ceremony. Feel God’s light, love, and peace during this traditional time of worship and celebration.
John
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From a secular perspective, the holiday season can be stressful: shopping, baking, decorating, [...]