Author Archives: Matt
Rome: A Religous Experience
Rome, Italy: April 18 – 24 Relics of another time stand frozen among the bustling metropolis of Rome. Scattered throughout the city, temple pillars and palace columns rise from the ground like stubborn redwoods. But beyond the staggering antiquity of this tourist wonderland lies a deep reverence for all things sacred. Catholicism is evident throughout … Continue reading
Seeing Southern Spain
Malaga and Valencia, Spain: April 14 & 15, 2011 Though vastly different in size and scope, Malaga and Valencia share the warmth found on Spain’s Mediterranean coast. Often successive ports of call for sea going cruise guests, these dynamic cities can easily pass by in a blur. Take time to see the sights and indulge … Continue reading
Coastal Cadiz
Cadiz, Spain: April 13, 2011 Cranes tower above the skyline of Cadiz situated on Spain’s southern Atlantic coast. Preparations are underway giving a facelift to classical architecture for an international diplomatic gathering taking place next year. Within the compact city, temporary construction stirs as workers ready the streets and plazas for holy week. Coming late … Continue reading
Exploring Tenerife
Tenerife, Canary Islands: April 11, 2011 Memorials dot the winding roadside that climbs towards Tiende, Spain’s highest peak. The evidence of tragic death clashes against a backdrop of vibrant flora vying in futility for attention amid a tropical paradise. This road leading toward the summit along Tenefrie’s northern coast passes through several microclimates before punching … Continue reading
The best laid plans
I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess. – Martin Luther Looking back on years gone by and the plans I made for myself, I can see the beauty in trusting in something greater than yourself. There … Continue reading
Faith in Action
I had the privilege this week of sharing with our Sunday School class a message I feel very passionate about and one that I believe we do not hear often enough.
I talked about faith and the importance of acting on our faith. Although in print it is quite lengthy, in my excitement about the message I hurriedly breezed through the lesson. So after class, I was asked for the referenced scripture and realized others may have missed them as well. Therefore I have edited the lesson to be presented in writing and posted it here. Continue reading
The Plan
Well, Brielle and I have made our plans official and announced it publicly (including our employers). That being said, we will steadily be adding content to this site as the countdown to the old continent continues. We are currently in the final planning stages of preparing to set sail for Europe. We will embark on … Continue reading