To everything there is a birth, and a death

May Saint John the Wonderworker pray for us all. We are in need of a miracle.

As of March 31, 2011, those of us who have made the Live-In community at Raphael House our home and mission will be... homeless.  The management and the board have decided that our Live-in/volunteer model is outdated, an old-fashioned model of service which has no place in the 21st century. 

On Monday morning, we gathered at 6:45 to begin preparations for the Santa Lucia procession around Raphael House. Each year, on the darkest and shortest day, "Santa Lucia" dons a wreathed crown of candles, a gown of white, and moves through the house to light the way for those still sleeping. She brings breakfast for sleepy-eyed dreamers, and walks to the quiet song of her followers. 

Santa Lucia is a light in the shadows, a reminder of the hope that will overcome the darkness.

Pray for us, and pray for the families at the shelter. May Santa Lucia guide our way.

There is snow in the house

It has been officially the Christmas season since five minutes after Thanksgiving dinner was over; however, I had yet to properly acknowledge the fact on this blog.

Now I have:

First time ever to have a "2-3 foot" tree. In the corner. It's magnificent. 

I also painted paper mache eggs to look like penguins

Zak and I have gone from this:

to this:

They all said marriage would make you round. At least we are tastefully decorated.

Merry Christmas season. Make it a good one