Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. – Romans 13:1
Here we go again, it’s another election year! Super Tuesday is February 5th. How ironic the next day, when we may find out who are the most likely Democratic and Republican candidates in the fall elections, is Ash Wednesday. Of course Ash Wednesday for Christians is an annual call to repentance and cleansing in the Blood of Christ. Would that our elected government officials could focus their attention along the same lines! Not to mix religion and government, yet a parallel cleansing of national interests would add a refreshing tone to the politics of our national elections. But, alas, the personal attacks and dirty tricks have become an inherent part of the game and election strategy on both sides of the aisle. It will be a rough year as the campaigns for each candidate become more desperate for our votes and our support. Sometimes it’s difficult to understand that their authority exists and has been given by God’s administration, but it’s a good point to keep in mind. As it is said, people usually get the government they deserve. Perhaps that should guide us to stop blaming the politicians so much and examine more closely what might improve the results for what we deserve.
In other words, shouldn’t we be looking inwardly as much as we look outwardly? Or, to coin a phrase, all politics begin inside of us (not just at home!). King David, a politician of a different era, prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” And his example has been at the heart of Christian renewal as far back as the church begun. What effect do you suppose would happen, not just personally but corporately as well, if a majority of people in our churches seriously took David’s words to heart? And what effect do you think that would have on our nation? And what effect might it have on the world? One can only imagine, but one thing is for sure: for there to be any effect at all it must begin in me and you. For if the motivations and desires that guide our lives and propel our votes come from God cleansed hearts, then regardless of who wins the nominations and elections that govern our land, in God we can still trust.
One of course must fulfill their civic duty as well, especially in our country where we are free to vote for those we believe will serve us best in the authority God has given them. And that in itself is an awesome responsibility, for it is more than a popularity contest. We are forced to look below the surface and avoid the pressure of media and movements, but as objectively as possible consider the merits of each candidate in the face of grave and serious national and human interests. Our criteria in this endeavor are what separate church and state. Our civic interests should always be compatible with the purposes of our faith, but must first be concerned with America’s strength as envisioned by its founding principles and conserving it for the generations that follow us.
But let it begin with a grateful heart for all we have received and enjoy through faith in Jesus Christ who for our sakes and the forgiveness of our sins went to the cross to give us a greater freedom than any nation or government on earth can offer. And to our God who through divine providence has given the people of America great privileges in electing those who govern our lives here on earth.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
2008: A Time for Faith to Grow
“. . . a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted.”
– Ecclesiastes 3:2b
– Ecclesiastes 3:2b
I’m looking forward to a good year in 2008, how about you?
What will 2008 bring? What might we see happen that could bring the kind of happiness we hope for? In general terms related to the world we live in, it should be an interesting year at least. With the improvement seen in our military success in Iraq we are hopeful that fewer of our soldiers will be needed in the Middle East to secure a complex and dangerous political situation there. We hope also that greater security from terrorist movements will lessen the threat to our homeland. But then there are major political issues that will be at the heart of an election year sure to become at the center of our expectations for the future. It will truly be an interesting year indeed.
There are always a good many external events of which we have little control except in their aftermath that will also affect the coming year. Weather, human tragedy and institutional failure will all take their turn in bringing their own affects upon communities and individuals across our land and possibly including ourselves either directly or indirectly in major ways.
But whatever happens, and we can never depend on our knowing beforehand, we can be sure of the most important and essential thing that should matter the most to us, and that is God’s love for us in Jesus Christ and what faith in Him can bring. This can become a great year for us under any circumstances if we allow our faith to grow. There are many ways we can contribute to this growth process, all of course dependent on God’s Spirit and grace as the enabling power making it work. Devotions and Bible study are key activities requiring only a little self-discipline to be effective. Start with the Portals of Prayer booklets that we give out at church. There are also some good on-line resources and email lists that can be of help for those of us who spend a lot of time in front of a computer. A daily reading plan such as found on page 299 of the Lutheran Service Book hymnal coupled with a review of Luther’s Small Catechism is another helpful way, and there are many other such tools that can help us. Just reading and reflecting on a portion of Scripture each day will help your faith to grow. Of course these times are useful for fellowship with the Lord in prayer. As James tells us, the prayers of a righteous person have great effect, and we are made righteous by faith in the Lord Jesus that grows while we are in the Word and pray.
There are a lot of people who say they don't attend a certain church or they don't go as often as they should. But then how can you be growing in the Lord without a church to feed you in the Word? If you don't water a plant, it will wither and eventually die. The same is true of our walk with the Lord. We can grow complacent and immune to the ways of the world far too easily without being held accountable and being fed with His Word on a regular basis. Besides, your regular participation in church will bring you fellowship with other believers, vital to permanent growth in your faith. There is nothing like having that special "bond" with a fellow brother or sister in the Lord with whom you share a spiritual relationship in your church when you need a shoulder to cry on, advice, or encouragement in your life.
So make 2008 a year of growth, for you and for your family, and may God continually bless you in your commitment to him and in your endeavor to see your faith in Him grow.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
PEBBLES IN THE SAND
Newton apparently had nothing on us after all, except of course his great intellect. Most of the time we, like him, are like that boy on the seashore finding pebbles in the sand. That is, we are so preoccupied with our own interests and thoughts that we pay no attention to the greater realities around us. Our circle of truth encompasses only what our short attention spans seem able to handle in a given moment. But though most of what is true escapes us even as we touch on it with great frequency in our meanderings, there are truths and realities that we are compelled to consider from time to time. Jesus draws our attention to one such significant truth; one which brings light, knowledge and wisdom to the most basic problem that faces all people whatever age or circumstance they may find themselves in.Sir Isaac Newton, after his sublime discoveries in science, said, “I do not know what I may appear to the world; but to myself I seem only like a boy playing upon the seashore, and diverting myself by now and then finding a pebble, or a prettier shell than ordinary, while the great ocean of truth lies all undiscovered before me.”
—Foster
Invariably one of the pebbles in our life that we pick up and examine is an act or attitude of our own doing or being that wants to lead us to guilt or remorse. For some that pebble is like a hot potato and it is dropped immediately and quickly forgotten as something more attractive gains their attention. For others it is like a rough and heavy rock that is hung around their neck as a burden that weighs on the conscience and hard to remove or ignore. For these latter Jesus spoke his words of comfort and release, “if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Only He, the Son of God, can forgive us and remove the burden of sin that we carry, but not only must we be willing to give honest scrutiny to that ugly “pebble” in our way we must also be hearing him and abiding in his word. So the Gospel tells us very plainly.
We are now approaching the end of another church year and a new Advent season. Soon our thoughts will be focused on celebrating our Savior’s birth, another significant truth to believers in the Christian message. But in the midst of our meanderings, another pebble we can pick up and examine carefully is the opportunity to give special thanks to our loving and gracious Heavenly Father God; both for the goodness we enjoy in our nation and for sending his Son Jesus to set us free from sin and death so that we are free indeed. Thanksgiving Eve, Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. we encourage all who can to join us at church – another way we can abide in His word. May you enjoy His grace as you continue along the shore of life and truth, picking up pebbles and pretty shells.
“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” –John 8:31-32
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
LIBERAL CONSERVATISM
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering,
for he who promised is faithful. – Hebrews 10:23
Conservatives are often considered roadblocks to progress. Sometimes that may be the case, but not necessarily. In fact, they may represent the most progressive elements of society. Indeed, “Christian Conservatives are linked by the Media with the much to be feared “Religious Right” as the most radical segment of the voting public today.
But the true meaning of conservatism is to preserve what is good, reliable and useful while being liberal in the extension of benefit to the largest possible number of recipients. The heart of today’s political debate is over the role of government in extending those benefits. But, at least for the church, our objective and attitude should be that of the true conservative: preserving God’s Word and its application and extending its promise to the widest possible extent.
That this conservative purpose can have much effect for positive change in the world can be shown in just two examples: the world of the Apostle Paul and the world of the great Reformer, Martin Luther. But in both of these cases, the changes first occurred within the church, before their impact on the broader scale was felt. What seems lacking in today’s religious influence is the right balance of the true conservative’s principles in the spirit of biblical and reformational Christianity. These principles may also be expressed as Law & Gospel, both the heart of Paul’s and Luther’s influence upon first the church and then the world.
In Paul’s time it was the Jewish Church that needed the Reformation and the Roman world that needed the Good News of Jesus Christ. In Luther’s day it was the Roman Church that needed the Reformation and Western Civilization that needed the Gospel preached throughout. It was the extent of commitment in their respective churches that produced the effects of their outreach. And though its primary purpose was for personal salvation and the fruits of the Spirit with those in whom the seed of God’s Word was sown, secondary civil and social benefits were clearly accrued for all people.
In our time it may be said that the Protestant Church, the church of Western Civilization, is the one needing Reformation before a more global world can be reached with the Good News and both its primary and secondary effects can be produced. But that needed reformation must be formed on the same principles of true conservatism as those advanced by Luther and Paul.
The problem with the church which Paul was Called to reform was that it had become Law centered, pushing out the refreshing spirit of the Gospel. The same is said for Luther’s church. For each of them the Gospel gained prominence, not by replacing the Law but by keeping them in their proper relationship. This is what gives Christianity its unique and overwhelming value, conserving what is good, reliable and useful; but extending its benefits to the greatest numbers of people.
Unless the Church of our period in history is able to regain the true principles of conservation, making the benefits of the Gospel our goal while keeping it in balance with the Ten Commandments, offering salvation and hope without giving up our moral values and the authority of God in our own daily lives, then we will fail in the commission we have received.
All our endeavors, political and otherwise, will accomplish nothing except further abuse and despair if we don’t take the right course. That course is: Reformation within and Gospel without. Order here is essential. Try to do it backwards, as some in the Religious Right seem to be doing, and neither the church nor the world will benefit. Rather let us be true conservatives and we can be used to change the world for Christ!
for he who promised is faithful. – Hebrews 10:23
Conservatives are often considered roadblocks to progress. Sometimes that may be the case, but not necessarily. In fact, they may represent the most progressive elements of society. Indeed, “Christian Conservatives are linked by the Media with the much to be feared “Religious Right” as the most radical segment of the voting public today.
But the true meaning of conservatism is to preserve what is good, reliable and useful while being liberal in the extension of benefit to the largest possible number of recipients. The heart of today’s political debate is over the role of government in extending those benefits. But, at least for the church, our objective and attitude should be that of the true conservative: preserving God’s Word and its application and extending its promise to the widest possible extent.
That this conservative purpose can have much effect for positive change in the world can be shown in just two examples: the world of the Apostle Paul and the world of the great Reformer, Martin Luther. But in both of these cases, the changes first occurred within the church, before their impact on the broader scale was felt. What seems lacking in today’s religious influence is the right balance of the true conservative’s principles in the spirit of biblical and reformational Christianity. These principles may also be expressed as Law & Gospel, both the heart of Paul’s and Luther’s influence upon first the church and then the world.
In Paul’s time it was the Jewish Church that needed the Reformation and the Roman world that needed the Good News of Jesus Christ. In Luther’s day it was the Roman Church that needed the Reformation and Western Civilization that needed the Gospel preached throughout. It was the extent of commitment in their respective churches that produced the effects of their outreach. And though its primary purpose was for personal salvation and the fruits of the Spirit with those in whom the seed of God’s Word was sown, secondary civil and social benefits were clearly accrued for all people.
In our time it may be said that the Protestant Church, the church of Western Civilization, is the one needing Reformation before a more global world can be reached with the Good News and both its primary and secondary effects can be produced. But that needed reformation must be formed on the same principles of true conservatism as those advanced by Luther and Paul.
The problem with the church which Paul was Called to reform was that it had become Law centered, pushing out the refreshing spirit of the Gospel. The same is said for Luther’s church. For each of them the Gospel gained prominence, not by replacing the Law but by keeping them in their proper relationship. This is what gives Christianity its unique and overwhelming value, conserving what is good, reliable and useful; but extending its benefits to the greatest numbers of people.
Unless the Church of our period in history is able to regain the true principles of conservation, making the benefits of the Gospel our goal while keeping it in balance with the Ten Commandments, offering salvation and hope without giving up our moral values and the authority of God in our own daily lives, then we will fail in the commission we have received.
All our endeavors, political and otherwise, will accomplish nothing except further abuse and despair if we don’t take the right course. That course is: Reformation within and Gospel without. Order here is essential. Try to do it backwards, as some in the Religious Right seem to be doing, and neither the church nor the world will benefit. Rather let us be true conservatives and we can be used to change the world for Christ!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Visit To The Creation Museum
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
– Genesis 1:1-2
On our vacation this summer, we visited the new Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, that opened on Memorial Day this year. What a wonderful exhibit it is, telling the real story of God’s creation and God’s truth about the creation of the universe and everything in it. Not only is it factually based and in total agreement with the Bible, but they have done a fantastic job of showing the comparison of what God’s Word teaches versus the view of human reasoning that discounts or ignores biblical revelation.
With the theme “Prepare to Believe” the museum takes you through beautiful displays showing representations and actual artifacts that illustrate and describe all of the major events of Genesis chapters 1 – 11. There is also a fantastic planetarium show that puts all the galaxies, constellations, stars and planets in context with the Bible’s account of creation. The many rooms of exhibits then explain in scientific terms how what can be observed and proven fit very well with the Genesis account and why there is a difference of interpretation by modern evolutionary based scientific theory. “Same Facts, but Different Views… Why?” are demonstrated regarding such topics as dinosaurs, coal and oil formation, speciation in animal and plant life, recent creation and evolution, our first human parents, the universal flood of Noah and the Ark, Flood Geology, the Ice Age, survival of dinosaurs as the basis for dragon mythology and many more.
I was also impressed with the non-sectarian content and view taken with the museum. Lutherans, Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, Episcopalians and Catholics, indeed all Christians having only in common a complete acceptance of all the canonical books of Holy Scripture would have no problem with anything viewed or described. Only the skeptic, agnostic, atheist or non-Christian would be uncomfortable, as in fact many such critics have already expressed themselves. I also appreciated the inclusion of a display figure of Martin Luther posting his 95 theses on the Wittenberg Church Door. In fact one lady hearing my expression that Luther was my hero volunteered to take my picture along side his image in the Biblical Relevance Room.
Perhaps most fulfilling of all was seeing the thousands of people there that day viewing and appreciating the work that had been done in making this a very professional first class museum of the finest quality suitable for its high purpose and glorifying the Creator and Savior Jesus Christ. The last feature after seeing all the display rooms was the Last Adam Theater, beautifully telling the Gospel story in a tasteful and appealing way. That’s the climax to the Creation as the Bible tells it, Jesus Christ fulfilling it all by going to the Cross and dying for our sins so that we might enjoy the new Creation to come forever.
By all means go see it if you can. Every Christian and especially every parent with their children needs to visit this museum. It is a beautiful story told in a beautiful setting with nature trails and gardens and lakes surrounding it. Teenagers especially, about to enter high school and college should have this presentation before facing the secular and brainwashed teachers and professors they will soon come across. The museum doesn’t force your agreement with its viewpoint, but lovingly, accurately and convincingly it will reinforce your faith. Go to www.creationmuseum.org to plan your trip and when you get back let me know what you think. May God bless you as you Believe in Him!
– Genesis 1:1-2
On our vacation this summer, we visited the new Creation Museum in Petersburg, Kentucky, that opened on Memorial Day this year. What a wonderful exhibit it is, telling the real story of God’s creation and God’s truth about the creation of the universe and everything in it. Not only is it factually based and in total agreement with the Bible, but they have done a fantastic job of showing the comparison of what God’s Word teaches versus the view of human reasoning that discounts or ignores biblical revelation.
With the theme “Prepare to Believe” the museum takes you through beautiful displays showing representations and actual artifacts that illustrate and describe all of the major events of Genesis chapters 1 – 11. There is also a fantastic planetarium show that puts all the galaxies, constellations, stars and planets in context with the Bible’s account of creation. The many rooms of exhibits then explain in scientific terms how what can be observed and proven fit very well with the Genesis account and why there is a difference of interpretation by modern evolutionary based scientific theory. “Same Facts, but Different Views… Why?” are demonstrated regarding such topics as dinosaurs, coal and oil formation, speciation in animal and plant life, recent creation and evolution, our first human parents, the universal flood of Noah and the Ark, Flood Geology, the Ice Age, survival of dinosaurs as the basis for dragon mythology and many more.
I was also impressed with the non-sectarian content and view taken with the museum. Lutherans, Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, Episcopalians and Catholics, indeed all Christians having only in common a complete acceptance of all the canonical books of Holy Scripture would have no problem with anything viewed or described. Only the skeptic, agnostic, atheist or non-Christian would be uncomfortable, as in fact many such critics have already expressed themselves. I also appreciated the inclusion of a display figure of Martin Luther posting his 95 theses on the Wittenberg Church Door. In fact one lady hearing my expression that Luther was my hero volunteered to take my picture along side his image in the Biblical Relevance Room.
Perhaps most fulfilling of all was seeing the thousands of people there that day viewing and appreciating the work that had been done in making this a very professional first class museum of the finest quality suitable for its high purpose and glorifying the Creator and Savior Jesus Christ. The last feature after seeing all the display rooms was the Last Adam Theater, beautifully telling the Gospel story in a tasteful and appealing way. That’s the climax to the Creation as the Bible tells it, Jesus Christ fulfilling it all by going to the Cross and dying for our sins so that we might enjoy the new Creation to come forever.
By all means go see it if you can. Every Christian and especially every parent with their children needs to visit this museum. It is a beautiful story told in a beautiful setting with nature trails and gardens and lakes surrounding it. Teenagers especially, about to enter high school and college should have this presentation before facing the secular and brainwashed teachers and professors they will soon come across. The museum doesn’t force your agreement with its viewpoint, but lovingly, accurately and convincingly it will reinforce your faith. Go to www.creationmuseum.org to plan your trip and when you get back let me know what you think. May God bless you as you Believe in Him!
Friday, May 25, 2007
RELEVANT CHRISTIANITY
How relevant is Christian faith and practice to the world we live in? By that I don’t just mean its relevance to your life or my life, or even its relevance to the church – our church or your church. Lutheran theology has always recognized a two-kingdom approach to understanding our Christian life and responsibilities in this world. In other words we each live in two realms at the same time: one of civil authority and the other under Christ. And we owe each its proper allegiance. But under Christ what do we owe civil government? Only our civil obedience and our voice and vote when given opportunity to elect government leaders or approve certain laws or propositions, or can we go further on moral and biblical issues?
The concept of “separation of church and state” has evolved to the point in our day that Christians may feel an intimidation against their speaking out publicly on matters affecting their Christian beliefs based on Holy Scripture. This is especially true when there is conflict with publicly held dogma as in the evolution versus creation debate.
The recent passing of Reverend Jerry Falwell reminds many of the impact his “Moral Majority” had in the political concerns of the ‘80’s. His religious exuberance and appeal was offensive to “liberals” and of some concern to many “conservatives,” But in the aggregate one might recognize certain achievements in highlighting a number of Christian concerns while living in a freely elected civil state. Debate on subjects of abortion, marriage, homosexual lifestyle and others ensued, resulting in the success of some candidates favorable to a Christian worldview, despite some possible excesses that were not as helpful.
The better approach seen by the faithful is the evangelical one: preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ, testifying to our faith by our words and by our actions and raising our families in connection with a Bible based church. These are, of course, obligations to our Lord and His Kingdom done out of gratitude for the forgiveness of our sins, his spiritual gifts and our life to come. But as the relevance of the church diminishes in our culture there may also be a loss in the affect Christianity is able to have in the realm of civil affairs. Christians need to be engaged on both fronts if we are to remain relevant in a world for which Christ died for all. Indeed we must stand up for the truth of the Bible reflected in honest, but loving Christian faith, regardless of the cost, and in the public arena as much as in the religious one.
Having just studied “Christianity, the First Three Centuries,” a video series by Dr. Paul Maier, at our Wednesday night Bible Study, we were impressed with the struggle of those early believers. Many died as martyrs for the faith in the face of fierce opposition from the Roman state, but through perseverance the church flourished and prevailed. The opposition we face is nothing in comparison with theirs. Should we not just as vigorously engage our world both with the Gospel and with our citizenship as Christians in the freedom of an America still under the blessings of God?
The concept of “separation of church and state” has evolved to the point in our day that Christians may feel an intimidation against their speaking out publicly on matters affecting their Christian beliefs based on Holy Scripture. This is especially true when there is conflict with publicly held dogma as in the evolution versus creation debate.
The recent passing of Reverend Jerry Falwell reminds many of the impact his “Moral Majority” had in the political concerns of the ‘80’s. His religious exuberance and appeal was offensive to “liberals” and of some concern to many “conservatives,” But in the aggregate one might recognize certain achievements in highlighting a number of Christian concerns while living in a freely elected civil state. Debate on subjects of abortion, marriage, homosexual lifestyle and others ensued, resulting in the success of some candidates favorable to a Christian worldview, despite some possible excesses that were not as helpful.
The better approach seen by the faithful is the evangelical one: preaching the Good News of Jesus Christ, testifying to our faith by our words and by our actions and raising our families in connection with a Bible based church. These are, of course, obligations to our Lord and His Kingdom done out of gratitude for the forgiveness of our sins, his spiritual gifts and our life to come. But as the relevance of the church diminishes in our culture there may also be a loss in the affect Christianity is able to have in the realm of civil affairs. Christians need to be engaged on both fronts if we are to remain relevant in a world for which Christ died for all. Indeed we must stand up for the truth of the Bible reflected in honest, but loving Christian faith, regardless of the cost, and in the public arena as much as in the religious one.
Having just studied “Christianity, the First Three Centuries,” a video series by Dr. Paul Maier, at our Wednesday night Bible Study, we were impressed with the struggle of those early believers. Many died as martyrs for the faith in the face of fierce opposition from the Roman state, but through perseverance the church flourished and prevailed. The opposition we face is nothing in comparison with theirs. Should we not just as vigorously engage our world both with the Gospel and with our citizenship as Christians in the freedom of an America still under the blessings of God?
Monday, December 11, 2006
MERRY CHIRSTMAS 2006
Christmas Greetings to Ya’ll,
2006 has been an eventful year for us as we near completing three years in our Alabama home. We feel we have settled in nicely here and continue to enjoy our new friends in our church, general good health (for our age!) and all the blessings of our Savior Jesus Christ.
We enjoyed camping with our Jeep & Trailer on several trips this year despite a little accident on the way home through Kentucky. Spent some time in Chattanooga, Nashville, Washington D.C., Ohio and Kentucky. Went to the Rio Grande Valley in Texas to help Jeanne & Ken* renew their 50th. Pomeroy had LCMS meetings in Jacksonville MS, Baton Rouge LA and St. Louis MO. Nelda has really gotten into knitting and helped start a class at church. We both visit the gym several times each week and with our closest church friends we usually “lift one” at a local pub and have Friday dinner at El Tapitio Mexican Restaurant each week. We continue to enjoy our daughter Liz living with us and the holiday visits of Sheri and her family when they come down from Kentucky. We do miss our other children this year, Tim in Utah, Pat & Jeri in So. Cal. But we hope 2007 will see us all get together at least once during the year.
We hope and pray that you too know the blessings of Jesus and his forgiving love and that you have a very merry little Christmas wherever you are. God bless you now and in the new year. May He come soon!
Love from the Heart of Dixie,
Pomeroy & Nelda Moore
* Pomeroy’s sister & brother-in-law living near the area we grew up in.
Merry Christmas !!!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
GENEOLOGY IS FUN
Anyone who has enjoyed looking into his or her family history knows that one’s genealogy can turn up some interesting results. Last month I reported on some events at the conclusion of Nelda’s and my vacation that were unexpected, unpleasant and unfortunate, but which left us unharmed and grateful. But the vacation itself to that point was very delightful and enlightening. Not only did we visit many important sites in and around Washington D.C. that reinforced our appreciation of American history, but a number of places connected with my genealogical history. Beginning with the Moores of Prince George County Maryland arriving in the 17th century we followed their migration westward as pioneers to Fayette County Pennsylvania and to Adam’s County Ohio. We met Moores in these places that were able to show us where our ancestors lived, fought, farmed and raised their families. They became good friends even if our relationships might be somewhat obscure. The surprise of it all, however, was after our return home and hearing from a niece also researching our history that we may not be descended from these Moores after all, but that my grandfather was likely adopted by one of them later living in Illinois. Perhaps this explains why my Y-Chromosome DNA test results don’t fit well with most of the Moores of which I could compare. Oh well, I still consider myself a Moore by the legitimization of adoption as well as their family history, traditions and values.
In the same way, all of us who believe in the testimony of Jesus Christ are legitimized as God’s children, descendants of the Christian family of faith and true heirs of all that our adoption as son’s guarantees. We don’t have to go through court records, census data or cemeteries to research our genealogy in the Faith, all we have to do is go to God’s Word. For there it is clearly established in the only court that really matters, the court of the Kingdom of God’s Son. Ephesians 1:3-6 is just one of many places in the Bible where this promise is recorded:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved."
The value of this spiritual and eternal genealogy is also found in the relationships that we enjoy. Other members of our family with the name Christian become true friends and with them we can enjoy our common genealogy, for we are all adopted, we are all brothers and sisters sharing the same family history, from the Bible and the history of Christ’s church on earth. With them we can live, work, promote the Kingdom and enjoy the spiritual fruits of our faith in Christ.
So, whether you are interested in your own family’s genealogy or not, and it can be fun, take especial interest in your Christian name and family tree.
That can be a lot of fun too.
In the same way, all of us who believe in the testimony of Jesus Christ are legitimized as God’s children, descendants of the Christian family of faith and true heirs of all that our adoption as son’s guarantees. We don’t have to go through court records, census data or cemeteries to research our genealogy in the Faith, all we have to do is go to God’s Word. For there it is clearly established in the only court that really matters, the court of the Kingdom of God’s Son. Ephesians 1:3-6 is just one of many places in the Bible where this promise is recorded:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved."
The value of this spiritual and eternal genealogy is also found in the relationships that we enjoy. Other members of our family with the name Christian become true friends and with them we can enjoy our common genealogy, for we are all adopted, we are all brothers and sisters sharing the same family history, from the Bible and the history of Christ’s church on earth. With them we can live, work, promote the Kingdom and enjoy the spiritual fruits of our faith in Christ.
So, whether you are interested in your own family’s genealogy or not, and it can be fun, take especial interest in your Christian name and family tree.
That can be a lot of fun too.
EARTHLY GOODS LET GO
Every once in awhile things happen in life to remind us of what’s important. These are necessary reminders, for without them most of us would just get carried away with the way things are and our daily effort to maintain the status quo. I was struck by this last week while preparing for Sunday’s sermon on Jesus’ calming the storm. His disciples were doing something very ordinary in taking a fishing boat across the Sea of Galilee – something very usual and familiar in their way of life. It was so normal and comfortable that Jesus was asleep on a cushion in the back of the boat. But suddenly things changed – a vicious storm arose to threaten their earthly lives and their earthly goods. Then in their distress they called out to Jesus to save them.
What gave me pause to look again at the personal implications of this familiar Bible story were the events of the previous Sunday when suddenly things happened that were unexpected and life threatening. We were returning home from what had been a very delightful vacation trip, making new friends and seeing new sights, learning about our nation’s history and some family history too. Then the first wave struck, while we were still sleeping in our camping trailer. Thieves broke in and stole some expensive and valuable goods from our Jeep tow vehicle as it was still attached to our portable home on wheels but, alas, unlocked. That was enough to cause distress, for with the loss of my laptop computer and digital camera hours and months of labor were lost, not to mention all my vacation pictures except for several rolls from Nelda’s camera. But our little storm wasn’t over and when a light rain fell on a twisted narrow highway in Kentucky we were left skidding across the road into a granite hillside bank on the other side. Needless to say we were shook up but were not hurt. God had preserved us from what could have been a fatal end. Like the disciples, who suddenly found that the storm had been stilled, we were left standing beside the road alive and well despite our scare.
Some things, of course, had changed. Damage to our Jeep and trailer will have to be fixed. Extra trips to retrieve them will be needed when ready. Many hours of rebuilding lost data and steps needed to prevent identity theft and fraud if files on my computer are misused. But the best change is to realize that none of these earthly matters matter in the real scheme of things in this world. Only our faith in the living God and trust in Christ our Savior and life with the indwelling Holy Spirit are the things that ultimately matter. That was the lesson for the disciples in the boat and that is our lesson anytime we are brought to realize that earthly goods can be let go and we cannot be destroyed by such losses. Even if our lives had been lost in a head-on collision as we crossed the centerline of the highway or a cliff had awaited us instead of a solid bank, our life with Jesus had been secured forever. This is the joy of true Christian faith, not that we will be spared of problems and threats, but that whatever happens we will in the end see Jesus in the Promised Land.
What gave me pause to look again at the personal implications of this familiar Bible story were the events of the previous Sunday when suddenly things happened that were unexpected and life threatening. We were returning home from what had been a very delightful vacation trip, making new friends and seeing new sights, learning about our nation’s history and some family history too. Then the first wave struck, while we were still sleeping in our camping trailer. Thieves broke in and stole some expensive and valuable goods from our Jeep tow vehicle as it was still attached to our portable home on wheels but, alas, unlocked. That was enough to cause distress, for with the loss of my laptop computer and digital camera hours and months of labor were lost, not to mention all my vacation pictures except for several rolls from Nelda’s camera. But our little storm wasn’t over and when a light rain fell on a twisted narrow highway in Kentucky we were left skidding across the road into a granite hillside bank on the other side. Needless to say we were shook up but were not hurt. God had preserved us from what could have been a fatal end. Like the disciples, who suddenly found that the storm had been stilled, we were left standing beside the road alive and well despite our scare.
Some things, of course, had changed. Damage to our Jeep and trailer will have to be fixed. Extra trips to retrieve them will be needed when ready. Many hours of rebuilding lost data and steps needed to prevent identity theft and fraud if files on my computer are misused. But the best change is to realize that none of these earthly matters matter in the real scheme of things in this world. Only our faith in the living God and trust in Christ our Savior and life with the indwelling Holy Spirit are the things that ultimately matter. That was the lesson for the disciples in the boat and that is our lesson anytime we are brought to realize that earthly goods can be let go and we cannot be destroyed by such losses. Even if our lives had been lost in a head-on collision as we crossed the centerline of the highway or a cliff had awaited us instead of a solid bank, our life with Jesus had been secured forever. This is the joy of true Christian faith, not that we will be spared of problems and threats, but that whatever happens we will in the end see Jesus in the Promised Land.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Sunday Was Not As Planned
Throughout our vacation we had been blessed with cool weather, beautiful days and a modicum of rain while we slept and one day in Maryland as we rested. But Sunday morning, preparing to make our leg to visit daughter and family in Danville Kentucky, began with an ominus awakening. Making ready to collapse the trailer and load the Jeep still hitched and ready to pull us on the road, I was startled to notice something wrong. Stupid me I forgot to lock the Jeep and had left some valuable equipment aboard as I was tired and done after a very busy and productive visit to Adam's County. Then I noticed my laptop computer was gone, also my new Cannon digital camera, my portable XM satallite radio and our very helpful companion and navigator "Jane" the voice of my Tom Tom Go700 GPS. Well, it was early Sunday morning in a small rural river resort town and by the time I was able to get a sheriff's deputy to write up my theft it was noon before we left in a most dejected manner our final stop in public facilities. Never in 35 years had I lost anything camping like the sudden loss of that day. But that wasn't the end of it.
Not having much further to go in Kentucky we headed toward Lexington, then around to the US68 and KY33 south. A light rain was beginning, but the Jeep was doing fine pulling the trailer as it had through mountains and valleys for two weeks without any problems. But then as we began the winding twisting road southwest of the city we slowed to almost stopping at several places and then, suddenly, we were out of control sliding across the highway, off the shoulder and finally stopped by a granite bank. The road was slick and wet and we simply hydroplaned, unable to brake at all. But the rig was almost stopped, enough that the air bags did not deploy and we neither suffered any damage nor bruises, climbing out down on the passenger side and finding the trailer still upright and hitched, though the front bumper of the Jeep was hanging down by the wheels. We called 911 immediatly and got two sheriff deputies and two tow trucks, called Sheri who got there in about 30 minutes and by 4 pm the Jeep was on its way to a Chrysler/Jeep dealer in Nicholasville and Sheri's neigbor had our trailer in tow to her house with his truck. Of course there was much more to be done and many loose ends to clear up, but we were safe, unhurt and it can all be fixed. So we have much to be thankful for and we are!
Came home on Wednesday in a rental, left the trailer in the driveway until we can come back get the Jeep and take it to the manufacturer, which just happens to be on the way in Knoxville, TN. We'll leave it for its repairs (minor but significant) and get it sometime later. By then we'll be ready for a nice quiet trip to Guntersville State Park only 45 miles away.
Not having much further to go in Kentucky we headed toward Lexington, then around to the US68 and KY33 south. A light rain was beginning, but the Jeep was doing fine pulling the trailer as it had through mountains and valleys for two weeks without any problems. But then as we began the winding twisting road southwest of the city we slowed to almost stopping at several places and then, suddenly, we were out of control sliding across the highway, off the shoulder and finally stopped by a granite bank. The road was slick and wet and we simply hydroplaned, unable to brake at all. But the rig was almost stopped, enough that the air bags did not deploy and we neither suffered any damage nor bruises, climbing out down on the passenger side and finding the trailer still upright and hitched, though the front bumper of the Jeep was hanging down by the wheels. We called 911 immediatly and got two sheriff deputies and two tow trucks, called Sheri who got there in about 30 minutes and by 4 pm the Jeep was on its way to a Chrysler/Jeep dealer in Nicholasville and Sheri's neigbor had our trailer in tow to her house with his truck. Of course there was much more to be done and many loose ends to clear up, but we were safe, unhurt and it can all be fixed. So we have much to be thankful for and we are!
Came home on Wednesday in a rental, left the trailer in the driveway until we can come back get the Jeep and take it to the manufacturer, which just happens to be on the way in Knoxville, TN. We'll leave it for its repairs (minor but significant) and get it sometime later. By then we'll be ready for a nice quiet trip to Guntersville State Park only 45 miles away.
The Moore Pioneers On the Move
Friday morning, the 16th of June after a breakfast of eggs, sausage and toast, we struck out again on Interstate on our way to Ohio, picking up US50 at Clarksburg and crossing the river at Parkersburg. Then we dropped down on OH32 to the Lazy Dog Camp-Resort 4 miles east of Jackson. This was a neat camping stop with a lake, well run facilities and clean pull-through RV sites. We also got there early and enjoyed an afternoon of relaxation at the pool and the gazebo with the rocking porch swing by the lake. Then we went into town for a nice dinner at an Irish Resturant/Pub. Refreshed we left early Saturday for West Union in Adam's County, the next Moore stop and our final geneological destination.
Arriving at the Adam's County Geneological Society building and Heritage Center a little early we enjoyed another beautiful day while waiting for it to open for my research. We were expecting Bart's family to join us in the afternoon and take us on a visit to the old Burkitt Cemetary near Brush Creek and the area that Aaron's son Hosea and his family came to live. This they did after I had some time to puruse the rich store of records and files on the Moore's of Adam's County. They were among the first residents, Hosea having been given a land grant for his war service. Son Newton David married Rebecca Burkitt and remaining today is the cemetary where Hosea, Isabelle his wife, son Newton and wife Rebecca were buried. All the grave markers and monuments are in good condition and the cemetary still in good maintenance. A Moore reunion is planned for July 9th this year, unfortunatly after we will have gone. But it was still a very interesting visit, and great to meet a cousin decendant from my great-great grandfather Newton. His son John moved to Cole County Illinois to a farm bought by his father for him near to Mattoon where my grandfather Thomas Moore became a business man in the early 20th century. We sincerely enjoyed Bart and family, including Uncle Bill and his wife who shared the old Moore family Bible and other records with us.
Leaving West Union we headed to a campground on the Ohio River advertized in the Adam's County Visitor Guide. It was convenient and pleasant, but little did we know what was ahead.
Arriving at the Adam's County Geneological Society building and Heritage Center a little early we enjoyed another beautiful day while waiting for it to open for my research. We were expecting Bart's family to join us in the afternoon and take us on a visit to the old Burkitt Cemetary near Brush Creek and the area that Aaron's son Hosea and his family came to live. This they did after I had some time to puruse the rich store of records and files on the Moore's of Adam's County. They were among the first residents, Hosea having been given a land grant for his war service. Son Newton David married Rebecca Burkitt and remaining today is the cemetary where Hosea, Isabelle his wife, son Newton and wife Rebecca were buried. All the grave markers and monuments are in good condition and the cemetary still in good maintenance. A Moore reunion is planned for July 9th this year, unfortunatly after we will have gone. But it was still a very interesting visit, and great to meet a cousin decendant from my great-great grandfather Newton. His son John moved to Cole County Illinois to a farm bought by his father for him near to Mattoon where my grandfather Thomas Moore became a business man in the early 20th century. We sincerely enjoyed Bart and family, including Uncle Bill and his wife who shared the old Moore family Bible and other records with us.
Leaving West Union we headed to a campground on the Ohio River advertized in the Adam's County Visitor Guide. It was convenient and pleasant, but little did we know what was ahead.
Aaron Goes West and So Do We
Leaving Prince George's County Maryland we headed out the Beltway west to I270 then north to Frederick in Washington County where Aaron and Mary Prather Moore made their way with wagons and mules or horses. We didn't make any better time with the traffic than they but once we left I495 we made good time. Frederick is where Hosea was born on Christmas Day in 1763 as his family headed toward Springhill Township, Fayette County Pennsylvania. Actually we traveled on I70 & I68 through Northwest Maryland and West Virginia, up and down the Appalachians to Morgantown were we made camp by noon at Sand Springs Camping Area, a rustic campground in the mountains and trees northeast of the city. That gave us the afternoon to detach our trailer and take the Jeep north into Pennsylvania on 857 (same CR in WV & PA). Crossing the state line in just a few miles we were greeted by a sign stating "Springhill Township, Fayette County" and behind it "Welcome to Pennsylvania." Now we had to find "George's Creek," the only identification I had of Aaron's farm. Then crossing over to US119 at Smithfield and taking the road to Ruble Mill we continued to find a bridge over a good fresh running creek and next to it a municipal plant sign declaring it as "George's Creek." After taking our pictures we crossed the bridged and followed the gravel road along the creek for several miles, viewed an old abandoned house (Aaron's??), then back to the 857 and our traveling home. It felt good having been at least in the area of Aaron's property where he raise his family and called home as he fought in the Revolutionary war for the new republic of America that his father George had given to his decendants.
We had a quiet evening with no TV to interupt the sounds of night in the Appalacian mountains before heading west again next morning.
We had a quiet evening with no TV to interupt the sounds of night in the Appalacian mountains before heading west again next morning.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Our Last Day in PFC & DC
Well, the plan was to go up the Washinton Monument today, since we couldn't get into the White House, but to no avail. It too was sold out for advance tickets and we didn't arrive in time for same day, so it was a good time to visit the National Archives. Good thing we were early for by the time it opened at 10 the line was out on the sidewalk around the corner. We were the 7th & 8th people to get in and enjoyed the exhibition that included the Magna Carta, Declaration of Independance, Constitution and Bill of Rights. Then guess what, Nelda wanted to go back to the Natural History Museum (third time!) to get a copy of the Hope Diamond Necklace. I don't quite get the facination, but glad to make her happy with such ease. We skipped the Atrium, had a smooth last trip on the Metro system and got back to the campground early. Tomorrow we leave for Morgantown, WV and a visit to Springhill Township in Fayette County, PA. That's where Aaron son of George migrated to before his son Hosea moved to Adams County Ohio, our stop on Friday. More on that later. It's been a good trip here to Prince George's County. Excellent campground, wonderful new friends, mind boggling informational overload and lots of fun. Someday we'll have to come back to refresh our experience and do some things in more depth that we only touched on the surface. Glad we still have another week of vacation.
The Capitol Tour - Days Four & Five
Our plan was to take a day off to take it a bit easier on Monday and the weather cooperated very nicely. We had been having clear and mild weather making our walkathons as pleasant as possible. Monday we awoke to rain that lasted until mid afternoon, perfect for catching up on laundry and rest. Also called Senator Sessions' (Alabama) office to request a tour of the Capitol. Told to arrive about 10 a.m. we were a little early allowing time for our bus/subway trip into town. We became experienced Metro riders, even transferring from the Green to the Red line and ending at Union Station, closest to the Russell Senate Office Building. Union Station is a shopper's delight, but we were satisfied with some good coffee after an hour plus riding. When the other two families arrived we left the office with the secretary and three interns going to the basement for a ride on the Capitol underground tram. That was a fun beginning to an informative tour including the Old Supreme Court Chamber, the Rotundra of course and the gallery of the senate which was in session, but very limited participation. We thoroughly enjoyed an hour and half tour then ventured back to the Natural Science Museum to get some gifts for our girls (Nelda saw them before, but of course didn't get them while there). After another lunch in the Atrium then walked over to the White House Visitor Center to see if we could get into the White House tour on Wednesday. But it takes six-weeks advance notice for a security check so that was out and we headed back to the Metro, this time leaving from the Archive building stop. Tuesday evening we met Jim & Madeliene again when they came to the conference center in the campground for sqare dancing with their group. Jim had brought me more material for my geneology study. He is the most informed person on early Maryland, the Moore's and others of interest and the local sites and history of the area in and around DC. Again a blessing to our trip.
Sightseeing with Friends - Day Three
Two days on our own and now it was time to be treated to a guided tour. Our new friends Jim and Madelien picked us up at 8 a.m. Sunday for a drive to the National Mall. Parking was free, available and close to our destination - the Lincoln Memorial. On the way we visited the Vietnam Wall, which is one of the most visited memorials on the mall. Seeing the names in simple display is a powerful and meaningful tribute to the sacrifice of noble servicemen. Lincoln's statue enclosed with majestic columns is unsurpassed by the many other representations of this great president. From there we passed and viewed the Korean War Memorial on our way to FDR's and Jefferson's, returning by way of the WWII Memorial and a hot dog stand on Constitution Avenue near our parking spot. Next we drove down to East Potomac Park at Hains Point where we stopped to view "The Awakening," a statue of body parts representing a giant emerging from the ground - a facinating work of art in a rather bizarre fashion. From there we went north on the Potomac to the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park for a view of the Great Falls and the old Canal Tavern and lock house. Though the water levels were down from lack of rain the rapids were still flowing sufficient to attract several kayak enthusiasts. It was interesting to see the preserved locks and the canal barge replica awaiting replacement for operational demonstrations. We ended the day with chinese takeout and several games of Train dominoes. Our thanks to Jim and Madeliene for a great day to remember of our vacation 2006,
Mt. Vernon & Arlington - Day Two
Saturday we decided to provide our own transportation and took the Beltway in our Jeep looking for Mt. Vernon. We went East around to Alexandria and missed the off ramp to the Mt. Vernon Parkway, but finally found it - arriving at the home of our first President ready to enjoy our visit. But by then the line going into the mansion was half a mile long, or so it seemed. So we skipped that part and began walking the rest of the grounds. Actually we saw so much and enjoyed the scenary of the park and the Potomac enough to satisfy our interest. With lunch at the visitor center we were ready to find Arlington. This was a breeze compared to our earlier drive, taking the highway along the bank up to Alexandria then cutting over to Jefferson Davis Highway on up to the cemetary. After considerably more walking we made it to the Tomb of the Unknowns, then watched the army sentinel making his vigil of 21 steps in each direction followed by the ritual changing of the guard. It is a very moving and impressive display of military honor to unkown casualties from WW I, WW II and Korea. But again our feet and Nelda's knees were begging relief so that ended our visit and we returned to the campground for a swim and and jacuzzi bath.
Sightseeing in and Around DC - Day One
After spending my first day visiting Moore geneoligical sites, Nelda and I ventured out on Friday to explore The National Mall via the Metro system. The Metro bus from Cherry Hill begins in the campground and took us to College Station on the Green line for 60 cents each. Having bought two Senior Fare Passes for $10 each we entered the turnstiles for the subway and were soon on our way to the Metro station behind the National Archives building. Our first visit was to the Smithonian Air & Space Museum which was impressive if a bit tedious. From there we walked over to the Capitol steps and saw an openinng ceremony for the National Crime Investigators Runathon. A military honor guard, a solo rendition of the National Anthem and a welcome by Miss America provided a captivating show. Then we made the long trek back to the National Museum of Natural History where we had lunch at the Atrium before visiting the dinosaur boneyard and tributes to evolutionary theory explaining all ancient and historical lifeforms, compete with Neanderthals, charts and graphs as needed to support the presuppositions of modern science. Upstairs the star attraction was the Hope Diamond on display in a rotating glass case. Fortunately next door was the American History museum, afterwhich we dragged our aching feet back to the Metro station for transportation back to camp. With a transfer and as seniors there was no charge for the return bus ride so our total transportation cost was $2.90 apiece including the intial fee for the bus. Not bad when gas around DC is $3.11 a gallon.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Prince George’s County & Washington DC (click for pictures)
Our 2006 vacation is well underway and haven’t had much time to update the old blog ‘till today. We arrived DC area on Wednesday to Cherry Hill Park, a very nice campground with onsite bus access to Metro system.
Thursday I spent the day with James Moore enjoying visits to places and properties where George Moore, my first ancestor to the American Colonies, is believed to have come. James has done considerable expert research on the Moore’s of Prince George’s County in the 17th & 18th centuries. The best reconstruction at present is that George, older brother William and younger John landed at Mt. Calvert on the Patuxent River with their parents, John and Mary Moore, sometime around 1695 when about 15. Visiting the site we saw the likely landing spot below the brow of a hill where Jim’s ancestor James Sr. operated an Ordinary (tavern &general store) a few years later. John and his family may have come from Barbados or the British Isles and stayed with James Sr. at a nearby property named Four Hills. John died within a short time of his arrival and Mary remarried Martin Faulkner, then after his death Hugh Ryley.
George apparently went on his own after 1703 and in about 1715 married Elizabeth Lucas. We visited St. Barnabas Church on Leland Road west of US301 northwest of Mt. Calvert. The current Episcopal/Anglican church stands where the older brick church was located at the time when George and Elizabeth were possible married there and where two or more of their children were baptized. Inside we saw the painting of the Last Supper and the Baptismal Font preserved from the old church that was there when George and his family attended.
Then we went to the Patuxent Research Refuge and were given a tour that came as close as we could go to the location of Moore’s Industry, a 100 acre property owned by George sometime before 1723. We couldn’t go exactly where the property was on the west bank of the Patuxant between Duvall Bridge and Cash Lake because it is currently in a Whooping Crane protective area, but looking down the river from the bridge I could picture it close by. We were guided by the Refuge director Nancy Morrison who very graciously drove us to a number of sites on the preserve, including the Snowden cemetery and nearby ruins of Birmingham, Richard Snowden III's home and whose iron foundries and land holdings were the source of the Snowden’s wealth and prosperity.
George obtained several properties from Richard Snowden, including Moore’s Industry and Moore’s Rest located on the western side of the Little Paint Branch (creek) about five miles north of Cherry Hill Road where our campground was located. Jim and his wife Madeline had taken us on a hike along the Little Paint near the campground on our first day here. I managed to walk into several patches of Poison Ivy along the bank while taking pictures, but with no ill effect after washing my legs with soap and water soon after.
There was more to the genealogical information, insight and familiarization than I can relate in this report, but I thoroughly enjoyed it all and cannot say enough about the help, guidance and understanding and documentation supplied by my friend Jim. He and his wife have been most hospitable and helpful in all we’ve done and seen while here in Prince George’s County – the home of my family’s American roots.
Thursday I spent the day with James Moore enjoying visits to places and properties where George Moore, my first ancestor to the American Colonies, is believed to have come. James has done considerable expert research on the Moore’s of Prince George’s County in the 17th & 18th centuries. The best reconstruction at present is that George, older brother William and younger John landed at Mt. Calvert on the Patuxent River with their parents, John and Mary Moore, sometime around 1695 when about 15. Visiting the site we saw the likely landing spot below the brow of a hill where Jim’s ancestor James Sr. operated an Ordinary (tavern &general store) a few years later. John and his family may have come from Barbados or the British Isles and stayed with James Sr. at a nearby property named Four Hills. John died within a short time of his arrival and Mary remarried Martin Faulkner, then after his death Hugh Ryley.
George apparently went on his own after 1703 and in about 1715 married Elizabeth Lucas. We visited St. Barnabas Church on Leland Road west of US301 northwest of Mt. Calvert. The current Episcopal/Anglican church stands where the older brick church was located at the time when George and Elizabeth were possible married there and where two or more of their children were baptized. Inside we saw the painting of the Last Supper and the Baptismal Font preserved from the old church that was there when George and his family attended.
Then we went to the Patuxent Research Refuge and were given a tour that came as close as we could go to the location of Moore’s Industry, a 100 acre property owned by George sometime before 1723. We couldn’t go exactly where the property was on the west bank of the Patuxant between Duvall Bridge and Cash Lake because it is currently in a Whooping Crane protective area, but looking down the river from the bridge I could picture it close by. We were guided by the Refuge director Nancy Morrison who very graciously drove us to a number of sites on the preserve, including the Snowden cemetery and nearby ruins of Birmingham, Richard Snowden III's home and whose iron foundries and land holdings were the source of the Snowden’s wealth and prosperity.
George obtained several properties from Richard Snowden, including Moore’s Industry and Moore’s Rest located on the western side of the Little Paint Branch (creek) about five miles north of Cherry Hill Road where our campground was located. Jim and his wife Madeline had taken us on a hike along the Little Paint near the campground on our first day here. I managed to walk into several patches of Poison Ivy along the bank while taking pictures, but with no ill effect after washing my legs with soap and water soon after.
There was more to the genealogical information, insight and familiarization than I can relate in this report, but I thoroughly enjoyed it all and cannot say enough about the help, guidance and understanding and documentation supplied by my friend Jim. He and his wife have been most hospitable and helpful in all we’ve done and seen while here in Prince George’s County – the home of my family’s American roots.
Monday, June 05, 2006
On The Road Again
Here we go again - vacation 2006. I know some people (you know who you are) don't think pastors should take vacations, but boy do we need it. Our people are great and gracious, but most of them know we need a break now and then and we really do appreciate it. Helps us to concentrate on the church the rest of the time.
Enough, this year we are taking our trailer in tow with our Jeep Liberty and heading toward Washington DC. Right now we are half way there, staying two nights at a KOA in Wytheville, VA. Left at little after 8 a.m. CDT and got here about 6 p.m. EDT for a total of 388.2 miles. Not bad considering Nelda never saw a rest stop she didn't like. At least I got away with ignoring her recognition of every Cracker Barrel along the way.
Today was a beautiful day for travel. Temperature in the 70's, blue sky with white cumulus clouds and wonderfully green terrain. Came up I59 and I24 to I75 then I40 to I81. We'll take I81 on Wednesday to I66 then the beltway I480 around to the north where Cherry Hill Park Campground is located. From there we will sightsee DC, visit some properties owned by the first Moore's in my family tree to migrate across the sea, spend some time with some Moore's who have researched our geneology and enjoy a week of living in our home away from home.
That's all for now. Tomorrow we just rest up for the next leg of 311 miles on the interstate dodging all the trucks. Nelda is fixing our dinner so here's to all our friends. Pickle, this one is for you as promised.
Enough, this year we are taking our trailer in tow with our Jeep Liberty and heading toward Washington DC. Right now we are half way there, staying two nights at a KOA in Wytheville, VA. Left at little after 8 a.m. CDT and got here about 6 p.m. EDT for a total of 388.2 miles. Not bad considering Nelda never saw a rest stop she didn't like. At least I got away with ignoring her recognition of every Cracker Barrel along the way.
Today was a beautiful day for travel. Temperature in the 70's, blue sky with white cumulus clouds and wonderfully green terrain. Came up I59 and I24 to I75 then I40 to I81. We'll take I81 on Wednesday to I66 then the beltway I480 around to the north where Cherry Hill Park Campground is located. From there we will sightsee DC, visit some properties owned by the first Moore's in my family tree to migrate across the sea, spend some time with some Moore's who have researched our geneology and enjoy a week of living in our home away from home.
That's all for now. Tomorrow we just rest up for the next leg of 311 miles on the interstate dodging all the trucks. Nelda is fixing our dinner so here's to all our friends. Pickle, this one is for you as promised.
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
NASHVILLE
After planning a camping trip to the Cheaha Resort State Park with our trailer in March, we changed our plans since thunderstorms were forecast for the time we planned to go. So instead we went to Nashville, where I think Nelda really wanted to go in the first place. Stayed at a Good Sam Park close to Opryland and had a great time. Took the backstage tour of the Grand Old Opry on Friday, then went to the early show on Saturday evening. They had a shuttle from the campground so didn't have to find parking at a sold out show. Pam Tillis and Little Jimmie Dickens were the MC's and the show was a lot of fun. Two hours of good entertainment and when we got home the next week we got to see part of it again on the GAC channel. Sunday night we went to a dinner show at a theater next door to the campground. It to was a great program and the food was pretty good. Opryland is on the outskirts of Nashville where Grand Old Opry moved in 1974 from the Ryman downtown. They still do shows at the Ryman in winter but had already moved back to the newer theater complex when we were there. Did try to visit the Ryman and other downtown sites but the NCAA SEC Basketball championships were going on and traffic was crazy and no parking anywhere so we gave that up for another time. There also is a huge outlet mall called Opry Mills adjacent to the Opryland theater complex so spent some time, but not much money, there. Our weather turned out great. Rained the first night after we got set up and didn't rain again until we got home Monday. Then Monday night we had our first severe tornado threat warning. All prepared to go to our "safe room" a a solid brick windowless basement room under our deck, but the storm fizzled out and bypassed us at the last minute.
The Liberty does a great job pulling the trailer. No problems so far and we make it up the grades no problems. A little larger wheelbase and engine would be better I'm sure, but the trailer trails very nicely with the anti-sway bar hitch assembly. I'm quite happy with it and we love the Jeep. I had just got a TomTom GPS that mounts on the dash and it guided me through all the interchanges around Nashville and directly to the campground just fine. I also have a portable XM radio that I had professionally mounted in the Jeep but which I can also use in the house, office or trailer. The Jeep came with SIRIUS but then they dropped Fox News Channel in December, so decided to change over to XM before renewing SIRIUS for another year (the first year was included in the purchase of the Jeep). Of course, after doing all this SIRIUS picked up Fox again but too late. Besides I like the portablility of my XM radio. I can even clip it to my belt and listen although the built in antenna isn't as good as the car and home one's are.
Oh yes, while in Nashville we attended services at an ELCA church near the campground. It actually was a good service, much like TLC Anaheim and a "male" pastor who seemed quite biblical, conservative and competent. Enjoyed the service and the sermon. Nelda said it reminder her of Cursio. Communion by Intincture with choice of wine or grape juice. We, of course, chose the wine!
The Liberty does a great job pulling the trailer. No problems so far and we make it up the grades no problems. A little larger wheelbase and engine would be better I'm sure, but the trailer trails very nicely with the anti-sway bar hitch assembly. I'm quite happy with it and we love the Jeep. I had just got a TomTom GPS that mounts on the dash and it guided me through all the interchanges around Nashville and directly to the campground just fine. I also have a portable XM radio that I had professionally mounted in the Jeep but which I can also use in the house, office or trailer. The Jeep came with SIRIUS but then they dropped Fox News Channel in December, so decided to change over to XM before renewing SIRIUS for another year (the first year was included in the purchase of the Jeep). Of course, after doing all this SIRIUS picked up Fox again but too late. Besides I like the portablility of my XM radio. I can even clip it to my belt and listen although the built in antenna isn't as good as the car and home one's are.
Oh yes, while in Nashville we attended services at an ELCA church near the campground. It actually was a good service, much like TLC Anaheim and a "male" pastor who seemed quite biblical, conservative and competent. Enjoyed the service and the sermon. Nelda said it reminder her of Cursio. Communion by Intincture with choice of wine or grape juice. We, of course, chose the wine!
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