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Tag Archives: transformation

A Prayer for a Passionate Marriage

Last night Geri and I shared God’s vision for Christian marriage (over against secular marriage) with our New Life FIRM small group of 18 people. Among other things, we talked about the necessity of bathing our marriages in prayer if our relationship is to become what God intends. Only God’s power and strength, accessed through prayer, can transform us so that our marriage vocations might become “signs and wonders” of the kingdom of God on earth. I promised our group that I would post the prayer Geri and I pray, separately and together, each day. I often include it in my morning Daily Office. Meditate on it. You may want to memorize it. I don’t necessarily pray these exact words each day, but the rich theology and vision contained here keeps me anchored in God’s high vision for a uniquely Christian marriage. (This is adapted from a pamphlet distributed by the Pastoral and Matrimonial Renewal. Read more.

The Best Way To Help Fathers Be Good Dads

According to a report from New York City’s Mayor’s office called “The Mayor’s Fatherhood Initiative,” more than 24 million children are growing up in homes without a father. In New York City, about 33% of children under 18 years old are growing up in fatherless households (Sadly, the number climbs to 51% among Black and Latino children). They note the effect of fatherlessness as being poor, being in jail, and doing badly in school. What is most shocking are their 3 recommendations – uncover and remove any barriers fathers face in interacting with City agencies, support fathers as they try to be good dads, and assist in the creation of memorable moments between fathers and their children. There was no mention of the best way to help fathers be good dads (and create memorable moments) as marrying and remaining married to their children’s mothers. Interacting with a city agency will never come close to taking the. Read more.

The Best Way To Help Fathers Be Good Dads

According to a report from New York City’s Mayor’s office called “The Mayor’s Fatherhood Initiative,” more than 24 million children are growing up in homes without a father. In New York City, about 33% of children under 18 years old are growing up in fatherless households (Sadly, the number climbs to 51% among Black and Latino children). They note the effect of fatherlessness as being poor, being in jail, and doing badly in school. What is most shocking are their 3 recommendations – uncover and remove any barriers fathers face in interacting with City agencies, support fathers as they try to be good dads, and assist in the creation of memorable moments between fathers and their children. There was no mention of the best way to help fathers be good dads (and create memorable moments) as marrying and remaining married to their children’s mothers. Interacting with a city agency will never come close to taking. Read more.

What is the difference between Christian transformation and other transformational programs?

As I prepare for my small group meeting this week I am mindful that we are not just about transformation, but very distinctly, Christian transformation. My reminder comes as I contemplate the work of theologian and New Testament scholar, Robert Mulholland, on the “eve” of his upcoming visit to NLF. I had the opportunity to sit under his teaching last year and next weekend he’ll be with our leadership community. Ever since I discovered (should say experienced) the life-changing integration of emotional health and spirituality I have wanted to eagerly lead others into transformation. Dr. Mulholland’s NT work dovetails beautifully with what I am seeking to accomplish in the lives of my small group members which is, putting off the false self and putting on the true self. This is a significant part of the growth required for Christian maturity and authentic loving. Robert Mulholland’s work is highly concentrated on keeping this transformation anchored. Read more.

Tribute Poem for our 26 year Ministry at NLF by Emily Hazel

One of the great highlights of our celebration last week was this incredible poem by a beautiful and gifted poet in our church. It is so fashioned and shaped and nuanced to our journey at NLF I was in awe. It is evident from the poem that Emily has been watching and listening and personally experiencing the journey as well. With deep gratitude I say thank you to Emily. UNDER THESE GREEN LEAVES by Emily Ruth Hazel Dedicated to Pastors Pete and Geri Scazzero ~ Presented September 27, 2013 ~ Queens, New York City TWENTY-SIX YEARS to arrive at this day. Another doorway: after all the transformations you have ushered us through, now we frame this space for you. What started growing years ago in a sidewalk crack in Queens has taken hold—its roots now reaching deep, uplifting even concrete. The ministry you planted has become a canopy of shade and shelter. Only God. Read more.

Poetry Capturing Our 26 Years of Leadership

This poem by Emily Ruth Hazel, a poet in our church, was written and dedicated to us at our 26th Celebration on Sept. 27th, 2013. It captured the essence of our lives, leadership, ministry, and transition at NLF. Enjoy! “Under These Green Leaves” by Emily Ruth HazelDedicated to Pastors Pete and Geri ScazzeroPresented September 27, 2013Queens, New York City Twenty-six years to arrive atthis day. Another doorway:after all the transformationsyou have ushered us through,now we frame this space for you. What started growing years agoin a sidewalk crack in Queenshas taken hold—its rootsnow reaching deep, uplifting even concrete.The ministry you planted has becomea canopy of shade and shelter.Only God could have imaginedthese generous branches,how wide they would spread.Under these green leaves,the next generation is emergingout of this fertile ground. In the beginning, you stood aloneat the edge of what you knewas waves redefined their boundariesand brought you to your knees.You waded in and walked. Read more.