Author Archives: Lorna and Tony

Church Conference in Houma, Louisiana.

Good morning, everyone! I am honored to stand before you today as we gather for this wonderful church conference here in Houma, Louisiana. This is a special place, and I’m so glad we are all here together, ready to reflect on God’s incredible creation and the role we play as part of His community. For those of you who may not be as familiar with Houma, allow me to share a few thoughts about this charming town, which perfectly encapsulates the idea of God’s abundant blessings.

Houma, often referred to as the “Sportsmen’s Paradise,” offers a glimpse into the incredible beauty of God’s creation. From the sprawling marshlands to the meandering bayous, this region of Louisiana is truly a haven for those who appreciate the outdoors. Whether it’s fishing, kayaking, hiking, or simply exploring the natural beauty of the area, Houma is a reminder that God has placed us in a world full of adventure, wonder, and opportunities to marvel at His work. Many of us find God in nature, as it allows us to step outside of the busyness of life and into the vastness of creation. The quiet stillness of the waters or the majestic trees stretching high above us can bring us closer to God, reminding us that He is the creator of all things.

One of the gems of this area is the Mandalay National Wildlife Refuge. Just a short drive from the heart of Houma, it’s a serene spot where you can see firsthand the delicate ecosystems of Louisiana’s wetlands. As we walk through these spaces, we are reminded of the words in Psalm 19:1: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” Indeed, every tree, every bird, and every ripple on the water serves as a testament to God’s creativity and handiwork. It’s hard not to stand in awe of the beauty that surrounds us, reflecting on how all of creation is part of God’s divine plan.

Nearby, we also have the Bayou Terrebonne Wildlife Museum, which celebrates the region’s natural diversity. Here, we have the opportunity to learn more about the local wildlife, the plants, and the delicate balance that makes this area so unique. It’s a place where we can connect with the land, but also understand how much care and responsibility we must take to protect what God has entrusted to us. Just as we are stewards of our faith, we are also stewards of the earth, called to care for it and nurture it so that future generations can continue to experience its beauty and bounty.

As we consider Houma’s natural beauty, we must also reflect on its deeper sense of community. Despite being a smaller city with just over 33,400 residents, Houma’s residents demonstrate a close-knit and welcoming spirit. This community, like the body of Christ, works together to support one another in times of need and joy alike. I see this same spirit of togetherness and care in the church – a place where we come together to worship, to pray, and to serve one another. It reminds me of Romans 12:4-5, which says, “For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” We are each unique, but we are called to come together to serve and glorify God.

One of the highlights of any visit to Houma is St. Francis de Sales Cathedral, an iconic place of worship that stands tall and proud in the center of town. The cathedral serves as a beautiful symbol of the rich faith history of this community. Just as this cathedral has stood through the years, providing a place of refuge and hope for countless individuals, so too does the church today serve as a beacon of God’s love and grace. As we gather here, we stand on the foundation of those who have gone before us, building a legacy of faith that we continue to live out. I encourage all of you to take a moment to visit this beautiful landmark and reflect on the importance of remaining grounded in faith, just as this cathedral has remained steadfast for generations.

As we talk about community, it’s important to also consider the practical side of living in a town like Houma. Despite being a small city, it offers an affordable cost of living and a slower pace of life that many of us long for in this fast-paced world. The simplicity and quietness of the town provide an opportunity to truly enjoy the blessings we have – our homes, our families, our work, and our time together. I’ve spoken with many of you here today, and I know that Houma’s charm lies in the fact that people are able to thrive in this peaceful environment. It’s a reminder that sometimes, less is more, and true fulfillment comes not from the things we accumulate, but from the relationships we build and the lives we touch.

But, of course, all of this comes down to the heart of what we are doing here today. Our mission as the church is to be that living, breathing community of believers who exemplify the love of God in everything we do. We are called to spread the gospel, to serve others, and to build relationships rooted in faith. Just as Houma’s residents take pride in their community, we too should take pride in the body of Christ. We are His hands and feet in this world, called to serve the least of these, to care for one another, and to build God’s kingdom on earth.

As we reflect on the unique opportunities Houma presents for outdoor recreation, community engagement, and spiritual growth, we are reminded that all these things are part of God’s greater plan. In the simple moments of life – whether that’s fishing with a friend on Bayou Terrebonne or sitting in worship at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral – we encounter God’s presence in profound ways. We are invited to be part of something greater than ourselves, a community of believers that spans generations, united in our faith and our love for Christ.

I am thankful for each and every one of you here today. Your presence in this conference is a reflection of your commitment to walk alongside one another, to grow in faith, and to spread the love of Christ throughout this community and beyond. Just as Houma is a beautiful reflection of God’s creation, we, as a church, are meant to reflect His love, grace, and peace to the world.

May this conference serve as a time of renewal for all of us, a time to recharge and refocus on the work God has called us to do. Let us leave this place with hearts full of hope and hands ready to serve, knowing that God’s plan for us is ever-present, guiding us toward greater unity and purpose in His kingdom. Amen.

Church Newsletter – Shreveport Edition

From the Desk of Lydia

Greetings, dear brothers and sisters in Christ!

I hope this newsletter finds you well and filled with the peace and love of our Lord. As we journey through life together in this wonderful community of Shreveport, I want to share some reflections and thoughts that I believe will encourage and uplift you.

Shreveport, as many of you know, is a city filled with opportunities, blessings, and challenges. From its bustling downtown, with the hum of activity and the energy of everyday life, to the serene beauty of the riverfront that offers moments of calm and reflection, this city truly is one of the best places to live in Louisiana. As we walk our daily paths, we are reminded of the greatness of God’s creation and His presence in all corners of our lives.

We are so blessed to call Shreveport home. Not only is it rich with diverse cultural experiences, but it also offers a wide range of educational opportunities. Louisiana State University Shreveport stands as a beacon of learning, drawing students from all over the state and beyond. We are grateful for the many educational institutions that continue to shape the minds of our future leaders. But it is not just the education system that makes Shreveport special; it’s also the variety of industries that sustain this city.

In Shreveport, we are blessed with a strong and diverse economy. Healthcare, education, and general manufacturing play vital roles in supporting our community. It is incredible to see how these sectors continue to grow and evolve, providing jobs, resources, and opportunities for so many in our city. As a church, we have been blessed to partner with various organizations and individuals who are striving to make a difference in the healthcare and education sectors. Whether it’s through outreach programs, volunteering, or simply being there to support one another, we are a community committed to strengthening Shreveport and glorifying God through our work.

As we look around us, it’s important to remember that God’s presence is not only in the grand moments but also in the everyday lives we live. In our workplaces, our schools, and even in our homes, we can find ways to glorify God. It might be through acts of kindness, the way we treat others, or simply the joy we share with those around us. Let us remember that our work is not just for a paycheck but is a calling—each of us is a witness to the world, and our actions reflect our relationship with the Lord.

One of the ways we can be a light in our community is by staying rooted in our faith. It is through the Word of God that we continue to grow and remain steadfast. As Christians, we know the importance of fellowship, prayer, and worship in our daily lives. We gather together each Sunday, not just as a congregation, but as a family united in Christ. It is through this unity that we can strengthen one another, encourage one another, and grow in our walk with God.

Over the past few weeks, our church has been focusing on the importance of gratitude and thanksgiving. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of life, especially in a thriving city like Shreveport, but let us take a moment to reflect on all the blessings we have received. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, we are reminded to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Let’s remember to give thanks not just for the big things but also for the small moments. Every breath, every step, every new day is a gift from God.

Our outreach programs continue to serve those in need, and we are so grateful for the many volunteers and supporters who make this ministry possible. Whether it’s preparing meals for the homeless, helping families in crisis, or offering a listening ear, we are showing the love of Christ through our actions. It is a powerful reminder that the church is not just a building but a body of believers who are called to serve the world around us.

As we look ahead to the future, I encourage each of you to consider how you can be a part of the continued growth and ministry of our church. There are many ways to get involved—whether through volunteering, joining a small group, or simply being a prayer warrior for those in need. Remember that no act of service is too small in the eyes of God. Every effort, no matter how big or small, has eternal significance.

In closing, I want to thank each and every one of you for being a part of this vibrant community. Shreveport is a place where God is moving, and we are blessed to be a part of His work here. Let us continue to be a light in this city, showing the love of Christ in everything we do. I look forward to seeing how God will continue to use us to transform this city for His glory.

Blessings and love to all of you,

Lydia

Healing Power : A Bossier City Gathering

In the heart of Bossier City, Louisiana, a peaceful evening unfolded, filled with anticipation as a healing meeting was about to take place. The meeting was set in a warm, welcoming church hall, where residents of the sparsely suburban town gathered with a mix of hope and expectation in their hearts. Bossier City, though known for its close economic and social ties with neighboring Shreveport, was becoming known for something else—a growing community of believers coming together to seek healing, both physical and spiritual.

Madeline, a woman known for her unwavering faith and passionate dedication to the power of prayer, was the one leading this evening’s meeting. She had become a pillar in the community, and her reputation for witnessing miracles and healing had reached the hearts of many in Bossier City. This evening, she was about to facilitate a gathering that would leave an indelible mark on the lives of those present.

The church hall, with its rustic charm and comfortable seating, was full of individuals—some came with ailments and others with a simple curiosity. The people of Bossier City were a close-knit group, and the town’s spirit of hope was evident in the conversations before the meeting began. A few families from Benton Intermediate School and Cope Middle School had even arrived, bringing their children with them, in search of healing not only for their own bodies but for their loved ones as well.

Madeline stood at the front, her voice calm yet filled with authority, as she welcomed everyone to the meeting. Her words resonated with the energy of the room, filling it with a sense of peace and anticipation. “Tonight, we are not just gathering as individuals; we are coming together as a community of believers, united in faith, to claim the healing that God has promised us,” she said, her eyes sweeping over the crowd.

Many of those in the room were familiar with Madeline’s ministry and had already witnessed her incredible ability to channel the healing power of faith. Others had heard stories of miracles—stories of people who had come to Bossier City seeking healing and left restored, both physically and emotionally. The word had spread, and the expectation was high.

Madeline began the meeting by reading a passage from the Bible, specifically Isaiah 53:5: “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” She paused after reading the scripture, allowing the weight of the words to sink in.

“We are healed by His stripes,” Madeline continued. “This is not just a metaphor or a distant promise. It is a truth that applies to each and every one of us today, in Bossier City, in our homes, in our bodies. Jesus paid the price for our healing, and by His stripes, we are made whole.”

As she spoke, there was a quiet stirring in the room. Many in the congregation had come with ailments—chronic pain, illness, and emotional struggles—but Madeline’s words were stirring a deep faith in their hearts. They were starting to believe that healing was not just something for others but something available to them as well.

Madeline encouraged those present to bring their concerns forward. She invited them to share their struggles, both physical and emotional, as a way to acknowledge the need for healing. The floor opened for testimonies, and one by one, people came forward. There was John, a middle-aged man who had been battling severe back pain for years. There was Sarah, a mother of two, who had been struggling with a long-term illness that had drained her energy and spirit. And then there was Emily, a young woman dealing with anxiety and depression.

Each person spoke openly, and Madeline listened with compassion. She reassured them that there was no issue too big or too small for God’s healing power. The faith of the congregation was growing with every testimony, and Madeline’s words of encouragement were bringing comfort to those who had come seeking hope.

Once the testimonies were shared, Madeline led everyone in a time of prayer. She spoke of God’s power to heal, to restore, and to renew. “We serve a God who does not change,” she reminded them. “He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. And His healing power is just as real today as it was when He walked on this earth.”

As the prayer began, there was a noticeable shift in the atmosphere of the room. The presence of God seemed to fill the space, and a sense of peace and warmth swept over the congregation. Madeline moved through the room, laying hands on those who were seeking healing. One by one, people received prayer, and some even began to feel the physical effects of the healing power they had been praying for.

John, who had been struggling with back pain for years, felt a sudden release of tension in his lower back as Madeline prayed for him. Tears welled up in his eyes as he tested his movements, realizing the pain that had been a constant companion was gone. Sarah, who had been so drained by illness, found her strength returning as she felt a surge of energy she hadn’t experienced in years. Emily, who had lived in the grip of anxiety for so long, felt a deep peace wash over her, a peace she had never known.

Madeline continued to pray for the people, speaking words of healing and restoration over their lives. Her faith was unwavering, and the presence of God seemed to be moving in powerful ways. She knew that healing wasn’t just about physical ailments; it was about restoring the whole person—spirit, soul, and body.

After a time of prayer, Madeline invited the congregation to worship. The music played softly in the background as people began to sing, their voices rising in unity. There was a collective sense of gratitude and awe in the room, as many were feeling the tangible effects of healing in their lives. The miracles that had begun during the prayer continued in the worship, as hearts were healed, bodies were restored, and faith was strengthened.

By the end of the meeting, the room was filled with praise and thanksgiving. People who had come in search of healing left with a renewed sense of hope and victory. They knew that the God who healed them was not distant or detached but very present in their lives, working in the small and big moments.

As Madeline closed the meeting, she reminded everyone, “Healing is not a one-time event. It is an ongoing journey. Keep holding on to the promise that by His stripes, you are healed. And remember, His healing power is available to you every day.”

The healing meeting in Bossier City had come to an end, but its impact was far from over. The town, with its close-knit community, would continue to witness the power of God at work, and many more would come to experience the healing that had been promised to them. Madeline’s faith had sparked a new fire in the hearts of the people of Bossier City, and the town would never be the same.