Podcasts about community groups

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

This episode of the Identity at the Center podcast delves into the complex topic of death and the digital estate (DADE). Jim McDonald hosts Dean Saxe, Heather Flanagan, and Mike Kiser, who discuss the importance of planning for digital assets after death, the cultural implications of digital identity, and the evolving role of technology in managing these assets. They emphasize the need for individuals to take proactive steps in documenting their digital estate and the challenges posed by varying legal frameworks and cultural perspectives. The conversation also touches on the future of digital identity in the age of AI and the ethical considerations surrounding it.Episode Links:Death and the Digital Estate (DADE) Community Group: https://openid.net/cg/death-and-the-digital-estate/Connect with Dean: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanhsaxe/Connect with Heather: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hlflanagan/Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-kiser/Connect with us on LinkedIn:Jim McDonald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmcdonaldpmp/Jeff Steadman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsteadman/Visit the show on the web at http://idacpodcast.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Identity at the Center Podcast00:10 Introduction to the Death and Digital Estate (DADE) group03:07 The Role of Identity in Digital Estates06:01 Understanding Digital Estate and Its Components09:09 Community Groups vs. Working Groups in Standards11:59 The Importance of Digital Estate Management15:09 Cultural Perspectives on Digital Death18:12 Legal and Ethical Considerations in Digital Estates20:59 Future of Digital Estate Planning24:03 Conclusion and Call to Action31:33 Cultural Frameworks and Digital Estates35:12 The Importance of Protocols in Digital Estate Management39:30 Navigating Digital Wills and Estate Planning42:19 Challenges in Digital Recovery and Access45:18 Actionable Steps for Digital Estate Planning48:52 Personal Reflections on Digital Legacy50:57 The Future of Digital Remembrance54:25 Final Thoughts and Community EngagementKeywordsdigital estate, death, identity management, OpenID Foundation, digital assets, cultural perspectives, technology, legal considerations, AI, planning guide

Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!Today's Message: Faith That Prevails (Nehemiah 6) with Pastor Jordan FanaraIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give

Pregnancy doesn't always go the way you imagined it would. For my dear friend and fellow SMBC, Mel Anderson, what began with excitement quickly turned into one of the hardest seasons of her life. Instead of hiking and practicing yoga through her pregnancy as she had envisioned, Mel faced hyperemesis: severe nausea and vomiting that left her unable to care for herself, barely able to eat or drink, and often confined to the bathroom floor.⚠️Before we dive in, a gentle heads up: this episode includes a detailed discussion of hyperemesis and the mental health struggles that can come with a difficult pregnancy. If you're feeling particularly anxious about pregnancy, this might not be the right episode for you. And if you're currently in the middle of a hard pregnancy yourself, please know there is relief and joy on the other side (which you'll hear about in the next episode, in which we'll continue with Mel's story).In this deeply vulnerable conversation, Mel shares what it was really like to go through pregnancy without a partner while navigating a condition that tested her body, her mental health, and her spirit. From the heartbreak of canceled embryo transfers to the unexpected challenges of her pregnancy, her story is raw, honest, and important.If you're considering solo motherhood, pregnant yourself, or simply want to know you're not alone in facing a difficult path, this conversation will remind you that strength can grow even in the hardest places.In this episode on Mel's story about her pregnancy without a partner, we discuss:Mel's path to becoming a single mother by choice after ambivalence about having children in her younger years;How Mel's relationship history played into the decision;Being diagnosed with hyperemesis and how it shaped her pregnancy;Mental health struggles and learning to advocate for herself in the medical system;The critical role of support during a high-risk pregnancy as a solo mom;Why sharing the hard stories matters just as much as sharing the joyful ones;And more.

Imagine you were in Paul's sandals. For 30 years you devoted your life to zealously carrying out a mission, traveling far and wide to spread the Gospel. Church leaders valued your teachings and copies of your letters spread throughout the churches you help build. You were on fire for Jesus, but your ministry ends with you alone in a cell awaiting execution.Paul never did see the fruits of his labor. He may have experienced doubts that all he sacrificed even mattered. But you know what he never doubted? The love and grace of Jesus that saved his life and spurred him on. It's the same love and grace that we have been given, and it's a message worth hearing every Sunday. Pastor Chuck Schlie takes a look into the last days of one of the giants of the faith in this week's episode. In his words we find absolute assurance that a life lived for Jesus is always worth any cost!If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!Today's Message: Fear God or Man? (Nehemiah 5) with Pastor Jordan FanaraIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give

The Spanish Point Energy Fair is taking place on Wednesday the 24th of September from 7:30-9pm at The Armada Hotel. To find out more Alan Morrissey was joined by Conor Tubridy of Spanish Point Community Group and Colm Garvey of Clare Community Energy Agency on Wednesday's Morning Focus.

If you've ever doubted that Jesus can change the heart, just look to the example of Paul (aka, Saul). Once renowned for his violent persecution of early Christians, Paul has a conversion experience that knocks him to the ground (literally!). Days later, he sees the light (literally!) and emerges as one of the church's great leaders. Take a listen to this week's episode as Vicar Ryan Pfendler walks us through the heart change Paul experienced and how we can change our own hearts.If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

What does being devoted to fellowship look like? It is so much more than just feeling positively towards the body of Christ. Dan Rude explains how fellowship is organic and how fellowship is also deliberate and why it mattered in the early church and today! Outline: What is fellowship?1. Fellowship is the fruit of walking in the light (organic)2. Fellowship is actively participating in the life of Christ together (deliberate)Benefits of fellowship1. Maturity in Christ-fellowship is the path to maturity- We need each other to know Christ deeply (Colossians 2:1-3)- How we treat each other is one of the primary ways we serve Jesus (Ephesians 4:15-16)2. Reaching the world for ChristPrioritize Christian fellowship1. Be a great, encouraging friend- Be what the church should be;don't point fingers at others2. Give generously3. Go to church4. Join a Community Group

In a world full of chaos, how do we stay faithful to God's purpose when we've made a mess of things? In What A Mess: Samson, Pastor Roberto unpacks the story of a man whose strength wasn't in his hair, but in his commitment and consecration to God. We're reminded that patterns of compromise can weaken our calling, but God's grace always leaves room for redemption. If you've ever felt stuck in cycles of failure, you're not alone. Join us as we reflect on how God can take our greatest weakness and turn it into our greatest strength. Ready to take the next step? Join a Community Group or discover how to live out our mission to Know Jesus, Grow Faith, and Go Multiply.

Motherhood—especially solo motherhood—rarely unfolds exactly the way we imagined. Fertility treatments don't always go as planned, babies don't follow sleep schedules, and even our best-laid visions of how life “should” look often get disrupted.In this episode, I'm sharing one of our private Village Podcast episodes on the theme of Managing Expectations and Embracing Flexibility. Inside The Village, each month we take on a broad coaching topic that applies across every stage of the solo motherhood journey, from considering this path to parenting young children. Along with a monthly coaching episode like this one, members also receive a companion workbook and access to an entire library of past themes.In today's conversation, you'll hear about:Releasing unrealistic expectations of perfection, both in parenting and in lifeBuilding resilience when things don't go according to plan (another failed transfer, a toddler meltdown, or changes in your own path to motherhood)Practical ways to adjust plans with more ease and less pressureLearning to “ride the wave” of unpredictability, even when it feels uncomfortableWhether you're just beginning to imagine solo motherhood or you're deep in the day-to-day of raising your child, this episode will help you soften rigid expectations, prioritize what matters most, and find more peace in the process.And if you love this episode and want more like it, I'd love to welcome you inside The Village—a community designed to support women at every stage of the journey with resources, coaching, and connection.

It was an exciting time to be alive in Jerusalem back around AD 30-33. Not only did you have the chance to run into Jesus in the flesh during His ministry years, but you would have heard first-hand accounts of (or even bore witness to!) His victory over death. Imagine getting in on the ground floor of the Jesus movement! Those church fathers (and mothers) had a front row seat to the action. But what they began, we get to continue. In this week's episode, Pastor Chuck Schlie will help us experience the passion of the early church and learn from their example on how we can ignite the same fervor for the gospel today.If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

A Porirua community group says members are saving money for the first time and breaking free from devastating cycles of debt by creating their own pool of savings and interest-free loans. It's a model that's been operating for decades, but may be getting more common as daily life gets more expensive. Ellen O'Dwyer reports as part of Pinch Point - an ongoing RNZ series about living with the cost of living.

Would you like to dive deeper into the topics and Scripture from Sunday morning at BCC? Then you've come to the right place!Welcome to the Journey Deeper Podcast! Living into the second part of our church's vision, join two of our pastors at BCC: Lead Pastor Jeni Hall & Worship Pastor Mark Hall, as they dialogue through enriching, bonus material meant to further cover the topics from Sunday's message.Community Groups

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!Today's Message: Encountering Opposition (Nehemiah 4:1-14) with Pastor Thomas LongIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give

Bo Noonan teaches that true spiritual formation happens in intentional, vulnerable community—Jesus didn't make disciples in isolation but called diverse, imperfect people to follow Him together. As our church grows larger, we must “Connect Small” through Community Groups, which serve as training grounds for kingdom living, healing, and deep transformation as we apprentice under Jesus with others.

Welcome to week 5 in our series titled, “The Journey Deeper”, where we are exploring how the regular, rhythmic practices of a Jesus follower become the trellis on which their life in Christ grows. This week is all about Community. We take a look at the early Church formation as well as the creation of humanity at the very beginning to hopefully shape how we view - what we believe - of Community. Join us as we seek God's direction for our community-driven, spiritual lives together.Things to consider as you listen:As image bearers of the Triune God, we were created for community.We've been intentionally designed to need one another.1 in 5 U.S. adults experience feelings of loneliness on a daily basis.Fictive kinship group = people who are not related by blood or marriage but form strong bonds and act as family members, providing emotional support, stability, and practical care.The local church is built on relationships that become “kin” - where encouragement, support, and accountability is foundational. Community Groups - a chosen family built upon shared life and commitment to Journey Deeper together through fellowship, study of God's Word, and prayer.ACTS 2:42-474 Invitations for Community:Be family around a table.Share your joys and sorrows.Advocate for growth.Stay.

Back on 1st June this summer, the Woven in Kirklees Festival kicked off with World Stitch Day at Oakwell Hall in Batley. Among the attractions of stalls from local community groups, textile artists, workshops and an interactive fabric 'Time Machine' was The Red Dress on display in West Yorkshire for the first time.The Red Dress is an award winning collaborative embroidery project which was conceived by the British artist Kirstie Macleod. It took 14 years to complete and features the work of 380 embroiderers from 51 different countries, many of whom come from marginalised communities. The dress is currently in the middle of a global tour and was on display for the whole of June at Oakwell Hall in Birstall.The 'Woven in Kirklees' textiles festival first launched in 2019. The community festival celebrates all kinds of textiles and related crafts with yarn bombs, textile art exhibitions, workshops and talks.The biennial festival runs for a whole month and this year had 130 different events happening throughout June. Initiated in 2019 by Kirklees Council, the festival "is owned by everyone, including community groups, textile businesses, cultural and educational organisations, artists and heritage sites across the district".I went along to World Stitch Day and spoke to a number of the exhibitors, the festival's curator, Nat Walton as well as Kirstie Macleod about the amazing Red Dress. Here are some useful links to discover more about the events and groups featured in this episode:Woven in Kirklees WebsiteThe Red Dress Website The Campervan Collective Six Million PlusAnd to find out more about the appeal to make crocheted hearts for the North West & North Wales Paediatric Transport Service, please click this link.For full show notes for this episode, please visit this page on the Making Stitches Podcast website.To join the mailing list for the Making Stitches Newsletter, please click onto this linkThe theme music is Make You Smile by RGMusic from Melody Loops.The Making Stitches logo was designed by Neil Warburton at iamunknown.You can support Making Stitches Podcast with running costs through Ko-fi.Making Stitches  Podcast is supported by the Making Stitches Shop which offers Making Stitches Podcast merchandise for sale as well as Up the Garden Path crochet patterns created by me & illustrated by Emma Jackson.Making Stitches Podcast is presented, recorded and edited by Lindsay Weston.

In last week's episode, we looked at the interactions of Jesus and his disciples during the final evening of his earthly ministry. The events after that fateful night would forever alter their worlds (and ours). Imagine seeing the person you learned from, sacrificed for, and loved over the course of three years publicly executed—and someone you considered a brother being the catalyst for your teacher's shocking end. The pain and distress overwhelmed them. Then something changed everything. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim Mueller is going to celebrate the greatest comeback in history. Experience the disciples' confusion, elation, and ultimate understanding of what they were a part of when Jesus conquered death. It's a life and a movement that Jesus invites us into too!If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

by David Lee

EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland's electricity grid, has awarded community groups and not-for-profit organisations near the Celtic Interconnector project a total of €821,265.50. The funding, associated with the sub-sea cable project which will link the electricity grids of Ireland and France, will see 53 local community groups and projects benefit. This is the second of three phases of funding available to communities in the project area, with the total fund amounting to €2.4million. This latest phase of funding covers three activity streams, with €240,000 allocated through the community stream, €236,437.50 via the sustainability stream and €344,828 for projects covering biodiversity initiatives, with the biodiversity figure including an additional amount of funding due to an underspend in biodiversity projects in the first phase. Speaking about the fund,?EirGrid's Head of Public Engagement, Sinead Dooley, said:?"This fund was established to support east Cork communities to develop projects and initiatives that will leave a lasting positive legacy long after the Celtic Interconnector project is delivered. This latest phase will continue to support the huge efforts of community groups in developing positive spaces for all ages, supporting healthy initiatives and providing an important boost to energy and biodiversity projects. We are once again proud to support these efforts and look forward to seeing what can be achieved through this fund." The Celtic Interconnector Community Benefit Fund was established by EirGrid to recognise the important part local communities play in the development of the electricity grid, the impact works can have on communities, and to ensure funds benefit groups and projects in these areas. For a list of the successful groups and projects, visit www.eirgrid.ie/celticinterconnector#CBF More about Irish Tech News Irish Tech News are Ireland's No. 1 Online Tech Publication and often Ireland's No.1 Tech Podcast too. You can find hundreds of fantastic previous episodes and subscribe using whatever platform you like via our Anchor.fm page here: https://anchor.fm/irish-tech-news If you'd like to be featured in an upcoming Podcast email us at Simon@IrishTechNews.ie now to discuss. Irish Tech News have a range of services available to help promote your business. Why not drop us a line at Info@IrishTechNews.ie now to find out more about how we can help you reach our audience. You can also find and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!Today's Message: God's People Doing God's Work (Nehemiah 3) with Pastor Jordan FanaraIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give

In today's sermon from Rev. Vicki Harrison, she walks us through the powerful and often overlooked story of Deborah, found in Judges 4 and 5. As part of our What a Mess series, we explore how God raises up unlikely leaders—people the world may never choose—to accomplish His purposes in the midst of chaos. Pastor Vicki opens with a reality check: the time of the Judges was marked by confusion and rebellion, a time when “everyone did what was right in their own eyes.” Sound familiar? Yet even in the disorder, God was still listening, still calling, and still delivering. And in this case, He chooses Deborah—a woman, prophet, and judge—to lead Israel with bold faith. We learn that Deborah doesn't just sit in authority—she acts. She calls Barak to battle, encourages him to trust God's promise, and even goes with him when he hesitates. Her leadership is marked by courage, obedience, and worship. After victory, Deborah sings a song of praise, making it clear that the true hero is God alone. Throughout the sermon, Pastor Vicki invites us to reflect on some deeply personal questions: Do we believe God still hears our cries? Are we ignoring a call because we feel unqualified or unseen? Are we giving God the credit for the victories He brings? And most importantly—how does Deborah's story point us to Jesus, the ultimate deliverer who leads, saves, and sings over His people? If you've ever felt unqualified, invisible, or overwhelmed by your own mess, Deborah's story reminds us: God sees, God calls, and God delivers. Want to go deeper? Join a Community Group to process the message with others, or learn more about how we Grow Faith together at New Hope.

I remember well all seven of my children when they were infants. When they were born, they couldn't really say anything, but that didn't mean they were not communicating! It just sounded like gibberish, and yet these sounds that pass from parent to infant, though not articulate speech, are rich in meaning. There is no lexicon for this speech, and yet what is happening in these screams of frustration being answered by soothing words is incredibly profound—trust is established, faces are seen, and the foundation for a life of love is established. Soon names are known, categories are learned, and slowly a child learns to make sense of the world through language—words and vocabulary. Each family will develop its own lexicon of formulary words that are particular to their little tribe, and what is important to the family will be established—the words will shape them and be shaped by them. I use the word lexicon because that is the title of our new series starting this fall. A lexicon, simply put, is the set of words used in a particular language or field of knowledge, or profession, or subject—a vocabulary. This is true of the Bible and the story of redemption we find ourselves in. There is a vocabulary particular to the believer. These words have incredible meaning to shape our souls. This is true also of each particular family of God's people, like St. Patrick. We use certain words often because they express our heartbeat and passion about the gospel and our mission in the world.  They are so important that we will spend the next twelve weeks looking at 12 words that shape who we are as a community of faith. They are so important that our children will be looking at them in Sunday School and Sonshine—for them, we made twelve videos from our pastors. For our Community Groups, we have written questions that will be discussed and reflected upon at our scattered tables. This week, we will look at the word you hear all the time around here: Grace. We will ponder the question, “What is so amazing about grace?”  Also, to aid in preparation for our worship time on Sunday, we have linked the songs that we will be singing in worship on Sunday. Check it out, it might be a new song you are unfamiliar with, and now you will have a chance to learn and rehearse it before worship.  I hope you will join us this Sunday as we kick off a new semester of worship and ministry!

I remember well all seven of my children when they were infants. When they were born, they couldn't really say anything, but that didn't mean they were not communicating! It just sounded like gibberish, and yet these sounds that pass from parent to infant, though not articulate speech, are rich in meaning. There is no lexicon for this speech, and yet what is happening in these screams of frustration being answered by soothing words is incredibly profound—trust is established, faces are seen, and the foundation for a life of love is established. Soon names are known, categories are learned, and slowly a child learns to make sense of the world through language—words and vocabulary. Each family will develop its own lexicon of formulary words that are particular to their little tribe, and what is important to the family will be established—the words will shape them and be shaped by them. I use the word lexicon because that is the title of our new series starting this fall. A lexicon, simply put, is the set of words used in a particular language or field of knowledge, or profession, or subject—a vocabulary. This is true of the Bible and the story of redemption we find ourselves in. There is a vocabulary particular to the believer. These words have incredible meaning to shape our souls. This is true also of each particular family of God's people, like St. Patrick. We use certain words often because they express our heartbeat and passion about the gospel and our mission in the world.  They are so important that we will spend the next twelve weeks looking at 12 words that shape who we are as a community of faith. They are so important that our children will be looking at them in Sunday School and Sonshine—for them, we made twelve videos from our pastors. For our Community Groups, we have written questions that will be discussed and reflected upon at our scattered tables. This week, we will look at the word you hear all the time around here: Grace. We will ponder the question, “What is so amazing about grace?”  Also, to aid in preparation for our worship time on Sunday, we have linked the songs that we will be singing in worship on Sunday. Check it out, it might be a new song you are unfamiliar with, and now you will have a chance to learn and rehearse it before worship.  I hope you will join us this Sunday as we kick off a new semester of worship and ministry!

On Friday, September 5, more than a dozen community groups led by the Justice Center of Rensselaer County held a news conference in front of Troy City Hall to call on local and state officials to keep ICE out of Troy and other communities. They also called on the state legislature to come back in a special session to pass the New York For All Act to prohibit local officials and law enforcement from cooperating with ICE and their kidnapping of community residents. Speakers at the news conference included Jamie Crouse as emcee; Jessica Ashley of The Justice Center of Rensselaer County; Angela Beallor, Troy Capital Region Sanctuary Coalition (CRSC); Bryan McCormack, Columbia County Sanctuary Movement; Jahaira Roldan, New York Immigration Coalition; Rev. Donna Elia, Troy Area United Ministry; Verónica A Troy resident whose husband was kidnapped by ICE; Melanie Trimble, New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU); Naomi Jaffe of the Jails Justice Network; and Starletta Renee, YWCA of the Greater Capital Region. This has been Mark Dunlea for the Hudson Mohawk Magazine.

Even with careful planning, none of us can predict how our path to motherhood will unfold.When we last spoke with Tara Resnick, she was preparing for another egg retrieval and left us with quite the cliffhanger. Today, she's back to share the next chapter of her journey toward solo motherhood.In this conversation, Tara speaks with honesty and vulnerability about the setbacks she's faced—multiple egg retrievals, the financial strain of treatment, and the deep emotional toll of pursuing IVF as a single woman at 42. She also opens up about the regrets she carries: wishing she had pursued IVF or at least frozen eggs earlier, and staying in relationships longer than she now wishes she had.What makes Tara's story so powerful is not a picture-perfect narrative, but her willingness to share the messy middle—the heartbreak, the resilience it takes to keep going, and the importance of self-compassion when the outcome is still unknown.Tara's reminder for all of us: resilience isn't about toxic positivity. It's about choosing yourself, holding onto hope, and finding peace even in the hardest seasons.“Choose yourself, always.” – Tara ResnickIf you've ever wondered what it's really like to walk through IVF on your own—the ups, the setbacks, the financial and emotional weight—I hope this conversation will make you feel less alone.In this episode, we discuss:Tara's second and third egg retrievals, including the unexpected decision to pursue a Duo Stim cycleThe financial and emotional impact of IVF as a single womanThe vulnerability of navigating fertility treatments without a partnerReceiving difficult PGT results and the decision to transfer an untested embryoHow to balance hope and grief without falling into toxic positivityWhy Tara believes trying was still the right choice for her, no matter the outcomeAnd moreConnect with Tara: Instagram | @TaraLaurennnSimple Coaching for Health & Weight LossEvolve with Tara: Solution Focused Coaching

For thousands of years God's people have had no trouble getting into trouble. They've repeatedly gone their own way, sinned on grand scales, and tested the patience of a very patient God. Now the time has come for God's wrath to be unleashed. But instead of punishing the ones who deserve it, he sacrifices his own son. Today, we'll see Jesus in all his humanity. He experiences betrayal, desertion, and incredible agony as he awaits the fate that will finally reconcile us to our creator. Join Pastor Jim Mueller in this week's episode to reflect on the events that reveal the deepest love we will ever know.If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!Today's Message: Where God's Work Continues (Nehemiah 2:9-20) with Pastor Jordan FanaraIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give

Aug. 29, 2025- New Yorkers are poised to lose their government health coverage in the coming years as the result of changes in Washington D.C., but a new report argues that community organizations could help prevent a gap in insurance. We explore this report and next steps for state policymakers with Elisabeth Benjamin, vice president of health initiatives at the Community Service Society of New York.

What if we told you that the Creator of the universe and the Savior of the world wants a relationship with YOU! YOU are His beloved child and He wants to meet you where you are. This week, Ryan Pfendler will be examining God's character as He is revealed in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

One of the most amazing aspects of Jesus’ life and ministry is how He saw crowds. We tend to see masses of people, lumping them into categories, and gazing over the tops of their heads. But whenever Jesus saw crowds, He looked into the soul of each person. They were precious to Him, image bearers, His special creation. His mission was gloriously simple, to proclaim the Kingdom and change their lives. Yet, He did not do this alone. Jesus formed the first Community Group, a band of twelve guys who learned from Him and lived on mission with Him. His invitation to them was to lift their eyes so that they, too, would see crowds of people through His eyes, and notice that the fields were ripe. And then pray for the harvest, that God would raise up people to reach each and every one of them with the message of the Kingdom. This is also our invitation: to look on the harvest and notice that it is plentiful. And then to pray to the Lord of the Harvest.

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

Welcome to Immanuel Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia!Today's Message: Faith In The Waiting (Nehemiah 2:1-8) with Pastor Jordan FanaraIf you're new to Immanuel, please take a moment to tell us about yourself through our online connect card.We would love to connect with you this week!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/connect-cardYou can also download our Free app — which makes learning more or watching services even easier.» https://subsplash.com/immanuelbaptist/appIf you would like to join a Community Group, meeting twice a month in homes throughout metro Richmond, visit:» https://immanuelbaptist.org/community-groupsYou can learn more about us anytime at: http://immanuelbaptist.org/Giving remains available online. Thank you for your faithfulness, church family!» https://immanuelbaptist.org/give

Julie thought she was freezing her eggs for a future partner.Instead, she ended up fertilizing all of them on her path to become a mom on her own—then finding love and partnership afterward.That's the short version of Julie Ferguson's story, but there's so much more to it.Julie is a PR firm owner and solo mom by choice who's been through more than her share of plot twists on the road to motherhood: divorce, miscarriage, five egg retrievals, two IVF cycles, and one hard-won embryo that became her son. She opens up about what it really took—emotionally, physically, and financially—to make her dream of motherhood happen.And her story doesn't end there.Now a proud mom to a two-year-old, Julie shares what it's been like to date as a solo mom, including an unplanned pregnancy at 45 and the evolving relationship that followed. We talk about rediscovering yourself in motherhood, building connections with other donor sibling families, and Julie's advocacy work with the Stork Foundation, which helps families access IVF through grants.Whether you're still navigating fertility as a single woman or already parenting solo, Julie's mix of honesty, humor, and hope is one you don't want to miss.In this episode, we cover:Navigating miscarriage, divorce, and solo motherhood during the pandemicDoing multiple egg retrievals and two rounds of IVF in her early 40sThe emotional toll of losing an embryo and trying againMaking the leap from egg freezing to IVF with donor spermAdvocating for IVF access through the Stork FoundationDating as a solo mom and navigating an unexpected pregnancy at 45Building a donor sibling community and raising a happy toddler soloWhy prioritizing self-care matters in solo motherhoodAnd moreResources mentioned:The Stork FoundationLittle Words Project - Hope BraceletSociety for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART)It Starts With the Egg BookPulling Down the Moon Holistic Fertility CenterConnect with Julie: Instagram: @chijulesJulie's PR Firm

Chances are, you've experienced trouble in life. The list of things that can (and do) go wrong is a long one. Our problems can range from minorly inconvenient to devastatingly life-altering. If you've ever been afraid, you're in good company. Even the disciples, who saw Jesus perform miracles, had moments when fear overtook faith.In this week's episode, Pastor Chuck Schlie will remind us of His goodness, His power, and His love. There's nothing ordinary about how deeply Jesus cares for us and how steadfastly He stands with us. Come and take comfort in His presence!If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

Believers in local communities who come together to disciple one another through study, fellowship, and service. Studying together strengthens everyone's faith, fellowship builds relationships and helps group members fulfill their callings, and serving one another and others demonstrates the love of Christ to their community. Start a Group: https://m.churchforentrepreneurs.com/posts/welcome-leading-a-community-group

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

If you confess Jesus as your Savior, every day you're being targeted. Satan wants nothing more than to separate God from His people, and he's really, really good at knowing how to go about it. We all have trials and temptations in life, and Satan has a great sense of timing. He knows when we're most vulnerable to his lies and what he can use to tempt us. That's a lot of doom and gloom, but it's the reality of life for a Christian. Of course, we're not without hope! Early in His ministry, Jesus endured (and conquered) Satan's temptations. We have tools against the devil's schemes—and a loving God on our side who will go to any length to save us. In this week's episode, Pastor Chuck Schlie looks at the beginning of Jesus' mission of salvation.If you'd like to dig deeper, check out these discussion questions. You can complete them on your own, with your Community Group, or with family and friends.https://messiahstcharles.org/the-story/Normal Goes A Long Way Website: https://www.normalgoesalongway.com/Normal Goes A Long Way Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/normalgoesalongway/Normal Goes A Long Way Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Normal-Goes-A-Long-Way-110089491250735Normal Goes A Long Way is brought to you by Messiah St. Charles: https://messiahstcharles.org/Normal Goes A Long Way is hosted on Zencastr. Create your podcast today! Get 20% off when you choose Zencastr for your podcasting needs: https://zencastr.com/?via=jill#madeonzencastr

About the Episode In this powerful episode Becky is joined by Licensed Professional Counselor, Catherine Virden for an honest and insightful conversation about the impact of trauma and stress—especially within families navigating disabilities. Becky shares her personal path into counseling, how her lived experiences shaped her approach, and the importance of recognizing both big “T” and little “t” trauma. Together, they explore how the nervous system responds to stress, introduce practical tools for managing trauma responses (fight, flight, freeze, and fawn), and emphasize the importance of listening to your body.  Whether you're a caregiver, parent, or simply someone seeking a deeper understanding of trauma, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and encouragement. Related Links Find a Community Group! Hey Friend Videos on App    

What we focus on forms us. It forms us mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and communally. Join us as we focus on the One who changes everything... Jesus!For this week's Outline and Community Group questions, download our app or visit hillsidefellowship.org, click on Resources, and find today's sermon.

Life doesn't always unfold the way you imagined. For Tara, that meant rethinking everything she thought she knew about love, family, and the “perfect” timing. After years in relationships that weren't moving toward the future she desired, she found herself at a crossroads: stay stuck waiting for someone else to come around, or start creating the life she dreamed of on her own.In this episode, Tara opens up about the heartbreak of leaving long-term relationships, the fear and uncertainty of starting over at 38, and the courage it took to finally consider solo motherhood. She shares her experiences with fertility testing, choosing a sperm donor, a difficult miscarriage, and the incredible support she's found in this SMBC community as she takes those first steps toward becoming a single mom by choice.Whether you're exploring solo motherhood yourself or simply need a reminder that starting over is possible, Tara's story is filled with courage, clarity, and deep self-trust.In this episode on pursuing solo motherhood, we discuss:Feeling stuck in relationships and deciding when it's time to choose yourself;The fear of starting over in your late 30s and facing fertility decisions alone;How finances, support systems, and fear hold women back from solo motherhood;Fertility testing, donor conception, and facing miscarriage as a single woman;The emotional growth that comes from doing it scared;The power of connection and finding your people in the SMBC community;And more from Tara's deeply honest and inspiring journey.Resources mentioned in this episode:

(00:00) Fred, Hardy & Wallach discuss awkward Facebook Community Groups involving fetishes that are geared towards a niche audience. (16:26) It’s TIIIIME for the Email Bit. Use the link below to email any of us. Reaction to Bert Breer interrupting Fred’s contest live read. (31:47) THE STACK (PLEASE be aware timecodes may shift up to a few minutes due to inserted ads) CONNECT WITH TOUCHER & HARDY: linktr.ee/ToucherandHardy This episode of Toucher & Hardy is brought to you in part by Profluent and then have that linked to https://go.happinessexperiment.com/begin-aff-o2?am_id=podcast2025&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=michael