Old books . . . current books - all treasured

Bookshelf

by Robert William Service

I like to think that when I fall,

A raindrop in Death's shoreless sea,

This shelf of books along the wall,

Beside my bed, will mourn for me.
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“No man can be called friendless who has God and the companionship of good books.” ~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Seguin Law Enforcement Honors

Each year, the Guadalupe County Sheriff's Department and the Seguin Police Department honor one of their own for outstanding service. This ceremony is traditionally held in one of the Seguin Churches and is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. I've only been to four ceremonies: two at St. James Catholic Church, one at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, and this year's at First United Methodist Church.

Sheriff Arnold Zwicke and Chief Kevin Kelso presented the awards.
These men and women who keep us safe and provide order in our town are persons of dedication and character. It was gratifying to see the Sheriff's Department and the SPD in attendance to honor one of their own.

Season of Epiphany Ending - the Journey Beginning

Epiphany Sunday (in the Methodist tradition) is the first Sunday in January.

Now, as we begin the Season of Lent, one could certainly feel 'the presence of the Lord' in worship service Sunday.

On Transfiguration Sunday, the Bell Choir's beautiful music above and behind us was stirring.

The Choir's voices were soaring and moving; the words of the hymns uplifting. My heart was full!

This is a busy season - yet it is a season of reflection that can be very calming - as we look forward to Easter.

On February 24th, the United Methodist Men will serve a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Great Room. Wednesday will be Ash Wednesday. I especially like that the three Methodist Churches in Seguin worship together.
This is a JOYOUS SEASON!

Hallelujah!

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The Significance of Lent
Lent is the fourth season of the Christian year. Its length is the 40 days preceding Easter Day, not counting Sundays. This means Lent always begins on a Wednesday, known as Ash Wednesday. Lent commemorates Jesus’ fast and temptation in the wilderness of Judea Province, which, according to the Gospel, lasted 40 days. Just as Jesus confronted his temptations during these 40 days, Lent helps Christians focus on our most basic need as sinners: forgiveness.The only way our Lord’s forgiving power can become effective in our lives is by our taking the initiative to confront our sins, confess them and repent of them. In short, Lent is a season of penitence. Some Christians fast during Lent. This denial of bodily comforts can help encourage self-reflection about the need for Jesus’ forgiveness.

Shadows

To enjoy the light within is not the result of our effort but of God's loving kindness.
- Gregory the Great

Victor Hugo:

"To think of shadows is a serious thing."

Allen Hall Mulberry Tree

Persimmons

PERSIMMON CAKE

INGREDIENTS
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups sugar
1 cup milk
2 cups persimmon pulp
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract



DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch loaf pan.
Whisk together the flour baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar in a bowl, set aside. Whisk together the eggs, persimmon pulp, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth. Fold the persimmon mixture into the flour mixture until no dry lumps remain. Pour into the prepared pan.

Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 1 hour 15 minutes. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan, and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before icing.

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I've not tried this recipe, BUT if I acquire some persimmons, I will give it a try!