Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and pray that you will have a Blessed New Year. Keep Christ first and his blessings will continue to abound.

Lag BaOmer calls for reflection and spiritual growth

This Sunday, some in the Jewish community here in Cincinnati and around the world will celebrate Lag BaOmer, a joyous and festive occasion. It is not biblically commanded but is a result of Kabbalistic interpretations of the Torah, the mystic traditions of the Zohar.

After 3400 years in Egypt the waters of the Red Sea cleansed the Israelites as they fled from bondage and began a 49-day journey of spiritual growth and refinement that prepared them to receive the Torah.

The spiritual significance of this journey is that the Israelites moved from the lowest point spiritually when they departed from Egypt to the highest point when they received the Torah. This spiritual growth and refinement was not a one-time experience. It is to be repeated every year from the first day of Passover on 15th Nissan to the 6th of Sivan, The Festival of Weeks or Shavuot.

As diverse as Cincinnati is (it is one of its strongest assets), spirituality binds the community together. Indeed spiritual growth and expression in one ethnic group can have a positive impact in the spiritual growth of another.

Ahavat Yisrael, for example, or love for one another, which is one of the lessons of Lag BaOmer, is a universal virtue, which connects all faiths and traditions. Another example from Lag BaOmer and embraced by most faith systems is the setting of high goals of spiritual growth and striving to attain them.

It is therefore fitting that the whole community in Cincinnati, while embracing its diversity, can reflect on spiritual growth on this Lag BaOmer festival. Each segment of the community can also seek to hear the voice of its scriptures speaking to it afresh each day. For the Kabbalists, the Torah is received on every Lag BaOmer.

If you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you

The news coming out of television networks is mostly about the demise of Osama bin Laden. Gleeful crowds assembled in front of the White House immediately after the announcement of the death of a monster. Collage campuses erupted in jubilation and the mood everywhere was, in general, one of relief. The President declared, "Justice was done".

Something is wrong with this picture though. Not that Osama bin Laden should have been left alone, but the jubilant atmosphere and the kind of "justice" done are flawed.

The human society needs to look squarely into the eye of the cause of the anger and despair that breeds the types of Osama bin Laden. This has not happened and the monster is still out there. As the German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche (1844 -1900) once remarked: "He who fights with monsters might take care lest he thereby become a monster. And if you gaze for long into an abyss, the abyss gazes also into you".

An article in Tikkun rightly pointed out that it is futile to try to fight malaria by killing mosquitoes. The biggest mosquito was killed and even many more may be killed in the future. Nevertheless, the only sure way to fight malaria is to drain the stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.

One abyss that Cincinnati has been staring at for too long is urban poverty. And, yes, there are many doses of killing mosquitoes that cause urban poverty. But what is needed is concerted action to drain the water.

In the coming days and weeks we will introduce our readers to specific initiatives developed for this purpose, such as CORECHANGE. The hope is that you will contribute ideas for the success of these initiatives.

The more the spirit of giving the better the quality of life

Some time last year, the small town of Holland, Michigan, was voted "the best town to live" in. Of course, different places are voted "the best" at different times. Holland, MI has extreme weather conditions, especially frigid winters - not quite an ideal factor for "good" living. Furthermore, the percentage of retirees in the city is rather comparatively high.

What was equally surprising was the high level of volunteerism in Holland, MI. (Some people might mischievously conclude that the retirees are the reason). But it was also revealed that there are many places of worship too, making volunteerism a spiritual experience.

Cincinnati is not far behind in volunteerism either. Faith-based and non-profit organizations like City Gospel Mission rely on volunteers in carrying out their mission.

Go-Cincinnati is a citywide annual drive to engage volunteers in diverse projects in the community. This year's Go-Cincinnati takes place this coming Saturday, May 14. It is a day that everybody is encouraged and invited to give back to the community.

Everyone can find something to give by way of time, talent or treasure. And there is always great spiritual energy when people come together for a common purpose, in this case, volunteering.

For Believers volunteering is an act of obedience to the Lord Jesus who taught: "Freely you have received, freely give" (Mtt. 10:8). And if a better quality of life is a direct result of the individuals’ spiritual connection to the community, then there is every incentive to want to be involved in Go-Cincinnati.

A better life for each, a better life for all

Because of the uniqueness of Cincinnati, possibly there are many people in the community who wrestle with the question: "How can the quality of life be improved for every resident of this 'Queen of the mid-west'?" It is the preoccupation of both Agenda 360 and Vision 2015 just for an example.

How about starting with the assets or the "what is" and then move on to the possibilities? Greater Cincinnati has many strong factors that can be used to bring about the dreams of its residents and those who love living here.

How often do you appreciate the beauty of Cincinnati? Think of its geography, history and architecture. How about the arts and sports? Consider the fact that Cincinnati is home to many international and Fortune 500 companies. There are some Best 100 Hospitals right here as well as nationally and internationally recognized schools, universities and research centers.

Because of these factors, Cincinnati has a unique diversity, unmatched in the mid-west.

This diverse community is equally generous. The level and spirit of volunteerism and philanthropy is outstanding. There is passion for the well being of others. Leaders - in corporate, public, private and civic institutions - truly care about the community.

How can these positive qualities be used to bring about positive change, a better life for each, and a better Cincinnati for all?

Happy Mothers Day 2011

It was not until May 9, 1914 that President Woodrow Wilson declared a national Mothers Day to be observed on the second Sunday in May. Today, Mothers Day is observed as a special occasion to show gratitude to all mothers for all they are. Mothers represent a myriad of very special individuals. In every society they are by nature the center of family life and continuity.

Julia Ward Howe, often referred to as The Queen of America and credited by some as the founder of Mothers Day was passionate about women’s rights including women suffrage, prison reform and education. These are issues that shape the quality of society.

She was a writer, poet, preacher and reformer – all in one. To a very large extent, that is the picture of mothers – many roles in one person. In her vision, Mothers Day was to be a special council of women to discuss protection of children and attainment of world peace.

For 40 years after her husband’s death, and committed to a life purpose, convinced to be  answerable to her conscience and to God only, Julia travelled the world for those causes she believed in.

Today, in Cincinnati and around the world, mothers are carrying forward the legacies of pioneers like Julia. It is fitting to pay special tribute to those mothers in poor neighborhoods like Over the Rhine. They are mothers and “fathers” to extended families. All around the nation, more and more mothers are also their grandchildren’s “mothers”.

Imagine a community without them! If only every community could embrace those qualities that emphasize protection of children and families as exemplified in the life of Julia Ward Howe!

Happy Mothers Day all you wonderful mothers!

If you can imagine it, you can achieve it

This quote from the German author Johann von Goethe (1749 -1832) has inspired many people over the years. Some people may think it is a cliché because it is repeated too many times; but it is true.

The big news in Cincinnati this weekend is the Flying Pig Marathon. Saturday events included the 5K, 10K and kids races. The rest take place on Sunday.

It is the “big news” not only because it brings people together from all walks of life and from near and far for a common purpose but also because it enables individuals, groups and teams to experience the joy of completing an endeavor.

One man in the 5K race – there could have been many others like him – inspired many people who saw him. He had a walker and had to pause with every single step he made in order to make the next one. It was a slow movement with some effort. Yet he completed the 5K with rousing applause at the finish line.

He demonstrated that you can achieve anything you put your mind and your heart into. Jesus told his disciples, “…if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you” (Matt. 17:20 NIV).

Think of the things you have told yourself: “I cannot do this!” or “ It takes too long!” May be you have thought, “ I am too old for this!” or “I am gone too far, it is impossible to turn back”

We often put too many limitations on ourselves. More than 19,000 people are proving this weekend that “if you can imagine it, you can achieve it”.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step

The famous Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu (604 -531 BCE) gave us this quotation. A strict translation of the original Chinese would render it: "The journey of a thousand miles begins beneath one's feet". It can also be translated, "Even the longest journey must begin where you stand".
Whatever version you take, it fits perfectly with the 130 men and women of City Gospel Mission's Step Forward Team  who will participate in this year's Flying Pig Marathon on Saturday April 30 and Sunday May 1.
It has been a journey of a thousand miles so far for many in the team since preparations for this première Cincinnati event kicked of on January 29, 2011. Newsletter after newsletter from the Team has highlighted testimony from men and women who see the progress they have made this far as a major accomplishment in their lives. After years of life lived in a circle, participating in group training twice a week for four months is indeed a journey of a thousand miles.
What is even more inspiring is the vision that each one sees of the finish line because, barring last minute injuries, the 130 individuals in the Team have come too far not to cross it. Many of them have never before crossed a positive finish line. With one in hand, we can all expect many more to come as this journey continues.

Seeing the Cross as a sign of God's persistent, relentless love

During the Easter Triduum, The Right Reverend Thomas E. Breidenthal, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio stressed in his sermons that the Cross represents God’s relentless love as it encounters human rebellion and resistance.
For many Christians, the Cross is seen as symbolizing the atoning act of Jesus Christ on behalf of sinners.
In the Washing of Feet service on Maundy Thursday, Bishop Breidenthal raised the question: What did Jesus mean when he said to Peter, ‘A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean…?’ (John 13: 10). His response was that as long as we are in this world our feet will get dirt. We need to be engaged with one another and with society. In doing so our feet get dirty and require washing.
That is God’s love in action: relentless, not giving up, and that is the Cross.
Even when everything seems to be lost, as represented in the stripping of the altar to its barest on Maundy Thursday and finishing up the consecrated communion on Good Friday, we still see God’s relentless and persistent love in the waters of baptism and the new communion on in the Paschal Vigil.
What greater manifestation of God’s love than the empty tomb and the assurance of victory over everything that would hinder us from experiencing it? There is so much energy just seeing everything in the light of God’s love

Good Friday and Earth Day: A common message

For the first time since its founding on April 22,1970, Earth Day falls on Good Friday. While Earth Day activities in Cincinnati kicked off at Sawyer Point from noon to 5:30 on Saturday, April 16, Good Friday is only a few hours ahead.
"Praying the Steps" is a uniquely Cincinnati tradition which will mark its 150th anniversary this year. People from around the world walk the hour and a half climb up the steps to the Holy Cross- Immaculata church on Mt. Adams. People gather from 12 midnight and in the course of 24 hours between 8,000 and 10,000 will walk their version of Via Dolorosa.
Most churches of course will have one form or another of recalling the Passion of Jesus. In a small island in the Philippines, some Christians will chose to be nailed to crosses!
Whether extreme or mild, Christians strife to understand the meaning suffering which goes hand in hand with redemption. Jesus vanquished suffering for every believer. There is victory in His suffering.
The merging of Good Friday and Earth Day this year should help us to see in a clearer perspective the suffering of creation because of human competitiveness, consumerism, selfishness, exploitation and greed. Ironically this year's Earth Day is on the anniversary of the greatest ecological disaster in the US history just as its founding was motivated by the Santa Barbara oil spill a year earlier.
Creation is the best teacher if we are willing to learn. As St.Paul says: "We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in pains of childbirth right up to the present time" (Rom.8: 22)
On this Good Friday, Christians reflect on redemption from sin and suffering, and creation too is pleading for redemption from human exploitation and greed.

Maundy Thursday emphasizes serving others

Many churches across the country will observe Maundy Thursday on April 21, 2011. Traditionally, what makes this day special is the institution of the Last Supper, which continues to be celebrated as the Eucharist or the Holy Communion.
Pilgrims to Jerusalem this time of the year witness something else very touching and memorable during services - the Washing of Feet. Some churches here too include washing of feet in their services. At Christ Church Cathedral in Cincinnati, for example, the experience of this symbolic act of humility, leaves a deep spiritual impact on everyone who attends the service.
After washing his disciples feet, Jesus told them:
"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you" (John 13:14 -15).Washing another person's feet is the lowliest of service. That is precisely what Jesus wants of His followers.
It would be appropriate for Jesus' followers to remember, on this Maundy Thursday, the lowliest in society. We have been spreading the message and appeal from Sojourners to join together this time of the year on behalf of the poor and needy. Giving them a voice and being their defender is to follow the example Jesus set.
Reflect on these words from Proverbs 31:8-9:
"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy" (NIV

The Holy Week brings Christians together more than generally realized

Greater Cincinnati's landscape is dotted with churches. In old neighborhoods like Over the Rhine, Walnut Hills or Price Hill church spires soar high into the sky. The first European immigrants who brought European Christianity to the new lands built some, if not most, of these churches.
On the other extreme are some newer churches that adhere to various doctrines ranging from non-denominational to Pentecostal and everything in between. On many street corners are some small church buildings that were once liquor stores or bars. One major intersection in Florence - US 42 and Main Street - has four or five churches around it.
There is something quite inspirational in this entire quest for spiritual experience.
The significance of the Holy Week for every Christian of any creed and doctrine is the Resurrection of Christ, which took place "on the first day of the week" (Matt.28:1; Mk.16:2; Lk.24:1; John 20:1). The first day of the week, or Yom rishon in Hebrew, is Sunday. The Gospels give an account of Jesus suffering, or passion, leading to the Crucifixion in that final week.
This is the motif of the Holy Week and no Christian disputes that. It is the basis of every Christian's hope and without it there would be no Christianity. It is what binds Christians together.
Yet, during this Holy Week too much controversy among some Christians, supported by Atheists and non-believers, takes precedence regarding the origins and background of Easter to the point of diluting the central motif. It has often been remarked that some within the Christian fold seek to be identified by what they disagree with.
We should note too that Christianity was not meant to remain in Galilee or Jerusalem. It is a transforming power and in its spread it has transformed cultures, customs and people for a better relationship with God.
Let us join together in celebrating the gift of salvation, which is commemorated in the Holy Week.

Comments and suggestions are welcome. You can also send me an e-mail or comment on Twitter.

The Holy Week begins in step with the Jewish Pesach

There are over 27,000 people of Jewish faith in Cincinnati. In fact Cincinnati is home to the" oldest Jewish community west of the Alleghenies". Residents of Greater Cincinnati are too familiar with the invaluable contribution of the Jewish community in business and commerce, education, culture, the arts and philanthropy.
The eight-day celebration of Pesach - or Passover in English - began at sundown on Monday, April 18. The central motif of Pesach is of course the exodus from Egypt. The richness of the rituals of cleaning houses to remove yeast to the manner of celebrating the Seder to signify freedom provides a learning and spiritual experience to be cherished by all - Jews and non-Jews alike.
The exodus experience is for all - from the youngest to the oldest - and every generation. "This day shall be to you one of remembrance: you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord throughout the ages; you shall celebrate it as an institution for all time" (Ex.12: 14 JPS Bible).
Every generation must experience that exodus moment experienced by the generation that left Egypt. Reciting the Passover Haggadah is a way of living that moment. By asking questions during the Seder Meal, children learn and live that moment.
This year the Holy Week and the Passover are celebrated at the same time. Even though the Nicene Council intended to avoid this happening, years of Jewish-Christian Dialogue continue to remind us that we have common roots. It would not even be such a bad idea for the Church to do away with the complicated Nicene formula of calculating Easter.
It is encouraging that the President, for the third year, hosted a Seder Meal last night. It is equally encouraging that many Christians in Cincinnati are getting involved in one way or another in either celebrating the Jewish Passover or incorporating some of its elements in their worship services during this Holy Week.
Comments and suggestions are welcome. You can also send me an e-mail or comment on Twitter.
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There is a lot of common ground between different religious philosophies

A couple of years ago some people in the Episcopal Church - and the Christian community in general - were shocked to learn that Episcopal bishop-elect practised Buddhism. Consider this: There are numerous Buddhist centers in and around Cincinnati, such as the Diamond Way Buddhist Group of Greater Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Zen Center, the Buddhist Dharma Center, the Ohio Buddhist Vihara - Sri Lanka just to mention a few. Bear in mind too that Buddhism is no longer "an Eastern religion" confined to India, Southeast Asia, Japan, China and Korea, but is a worldwide philosophy of more than 350 million followers in more than 100 countries.
There are many people in Cincinnati and around the country practicing some aspect of Buddhism even though they do not ascribe to any formal Buddhist tradition.
Meditation, for example, is a key element of any Buddhist group. Western religious traditions too emphasize and encourage meditation especially during this season of Lent. Similarly, compassion towards others - a key precept in Christian and Jewish scriptures - and in Islam too - is espoused in this quote by the Buddha: "If you light a lamp for somebody, it will also brighten your path".
April 8 is the birthday of Gautama Buddha, an ordinary human being and the founder of Buddhism which is a philosophy with no fixed creed regarding any deity or worship yet espousing some aspects of various religious traditions as exemplified above.
The benefits of cross-cultural diversity include mutual learning experiences and edification. Healthy lifestyles and community, for example, are emphasized in Buddhism and in western religious traditions from different motivations but with the same benefits.
On this birthday of Buddhism let us all be willing to learn from our diversity. As Buddhism teaches: "It is never too late to start practicing ...The less ignorance one has, the less suffering"

Hold fast to what you have, so that no one may seize your crown

Today, March 30, 2011 marks the 141st anniversary of the 15th Amendment to the Constitution. That historic day, March 30, 1870 ushered in momentous progress in the political emancipation of African Americans.
A day after the 15th Amendment was adopted, Thomas Peterson-Mundy of New Jersey became the first African American to vote. In the South, Hiram Rhoades Revels of Mississippi became the first ever African American to serve in the Congress.
Many more freed slaves - in excess of 600 - served in state and local offices in the South during that first decade of the adoption of the 15th Amendment.
It was also within that momentous decade that the then Republican Party in the South disappeared as Reconstruction also ended and ipso facto state governments nullified the 15th Amendment - along with the 14th - and stripped African Americans of the rights to vote.
It is worthwhile to bear in mind that it took a century - almost - before the nation once again established equal rights for African Americans in the South.
The warning - or advice - in Revelations 3:11 is worth reflecting on whenever there is an occasion to celebrate past achievements: "Hold fast to what you have, so that no one may seize your crown".

A memoir in the works

Many people have wondered about my involvement with City Gospel Mission in light of my academic and vocational background. The question came to me vividly during a recording at WCVG 1320 AM radio for a program "Consider the Poor" - a program of City Gospel Mission. It inspired me to endeavor to complete writing about my experiences, a project I had started a few months ago.

Inspirational verses from Romans

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practise hospitality (Rom.12:11-13)