We read in the book of James:
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12 NIV)
Life is full of trials, but we are blessed with the knowledge that God loves us, that He will not try us beyond what we are able and that we can receive a crown of life by persevering under that trial. We also know that God has provided us with a roadmap for life in the Bible and many wise brothers and sisters that can and will assist in our time of need. That is the purpose of this site. We hope provide brothers and sisters in time of trial with information based on God's word and the collective expertise of brethren who have been trained in or perhaps overcome a partcular trial of life. This site can be used by ecclesial elders who are trying to help a brother or sister or even by the person who is suffering through the trial itself.
We do not intend this site to take the place of ecclesial shepherds or trained professional counsellors. We hope that it will be a readily available tool that is created for and by Christadelphians with our unique hope and perspective in view. It is simply one resource to consider.
We pray that all of those dealing with problems and issues, whether giving counsel or receiving counsel, will benefit from this site and the many brethren that have contributed from it. God bless you all. Even so, come Lord Jesus.
– The Directors of WCF and the Solution Leaders
For more information concerning WCF, please visit www.wcfoundation.org
Marital/Sexual
- Marriage Problems - Bro. Jonathan Midgett, Phd.
- Homosexuality - OPEN
- Pre-Marriage/Choosing a Mate - OPEN
- Child Sexual Abuse/Incest - Bro. Erik Sternad
- Sexual Addiction - OPEN
- Pornography - Bro. Kyle Tucker
- Rape - OPEN
- Infertility - Sis. Corina Midgett
- Depression - Sis. Becky Ross
- Suicide Prevention/Support - OPEN
- Alcoholism - Bro. Bob & Sis. MaryAnn K
- Drug Abuse - Bro. Ed Rivet
- Body Image/Eating Disorders - Sis. Mandie Smith
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder - Sis. Vicki Martin
- Cancer - Sis Elizabeth & Sis. Linda Fordham & Sis. Wendy Johnsen MD
Sisters - Sis. Hannah Fadelle,
Children
- Parenting - Sis. Ruth Midgett
- Home schooling - Bro. Jeff & Sis. Kellie Gelineau
- Children of Divorce - Bro. Daniel & Sis. Emery Chiles
- Retirement - OPEN
- Care for the Infirmed - Sis. Anna DuVall
- Service Opportunities for the Elderly - OPEN
- Elder Abuse - Sis. Anna DuVall
- Leadership - Bro. Colin Edwards
- CYC - Bro. Andrew Wentworth
- Sunday School - OPEN
- Conscientous Objection - Bro. Steve Davis
- Lost Sheep - OPEN
The Role of Solution Leaders
We wish to thank each of the solution leaders for lending their time, efforts and talents to this project.
This site is a collaboration between WCF and brethren throughout the world to create a web site to help solve real life problems that are encountered by our brethren. Our intent is to create a database where brethren can benefit from the experience of other brethren or ecclesias. The site has not only suggested ways to deal with a problem, but resources to assist in handling them whether it be a book, web site or a brother/sister with expertise in that area. As you can see from the above, it is a work in progress.
The Solution Leader's role is as follows:- Creating the content for the specific topic. You would submit it to me in a Word document format and I would then post it on web site. The content can be whatever or whereever you think they need to go. You could post your telephone number if you wanted to talk to people. You could post a few book titles and a synopsis of each. You could post a few web sites and hotlinks to each. You could post your own papers. You can reference videos, hotlines, etc. Basically, we are looking for you to tell people the best starting point for reaching a solution to their particular issue.
- Act as the contact point for other brethren who might want to add something useful to the site. We would depend on you to recommend this content or deny posting of this content.
- Keep abreast of the subject so that from time to time you can review, update or modify the content.
We are NOT asking you to deal with each problem that comes up in every ecclesia relating to this topic. What we are asking you to do is give brethren a good, solid starting point.
Tips On Creating Your PageThere are a few things that you will need to keep in mind when creating your page.
- International Audience: This site is intended for brethren and sisters throughout the world. Keep this in mind while you are creating your content. If you are putting country-specific information on the site, clearly note that it is country-specific. For example, if you are listing governmental regulations for the reporting of child abuse in Australia, please clearly note it so there is no confusion. It would also be appropriate at that point to counsel the reader to check with their local government to see what regulations there are.
- Professional Advice: We recognize that in some situations, the only reasonable solution is to seek professional help. As a rule of thumb, if someone's life is in danger, strongly encourage to the reader to seek professional assistance. If you can list numbers, books or web sites where they can find professional help in their area, that would be very useful.
- Organization: Organize your material so that it is easy to find. The best way to do this is to put a list of links on your main page with two or three sentences explaining what information is to be found on that page. Go to the Pornography page as an example.
- Copyright & Intellectual Property: If you use someone else's material, please obtain permission to do so. You don't need permission to provide a link to a web site or to provide a synopsis of a book you are recommending, but please don't go on someone's web site, copy the information and post it on this site without permission and attribution.
- Non-Christadelphian Materials: There is some very helpful material out there that is not from a Christadelphian source. It will be up to your discretion to use material such as this. Some material is helpful but does reference some of the false beliefs of Christendom. If you use material such as this, we suggest adding the following note: "Please be aware that the following information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine."
- WCF Assistance: Keep in mind that one of the areas for assistance is WCF itself. We do provide funding for people in need. In general, WCF helps brethren (or children of brethren) when the local ecclesia is unable to provide the needed assistance. We try to administer all funds through a local contact whether it be a member of the ecclesia or a missionary organization. Each individual situation needs to be approved by WCF.
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
In the later years of life, the aged are vulnerable to specific pressures. Retirement deprives the individual of the structure that work provides: time schedule, where the job provides a reason to be at a specific place at a specific time; social belonging, where co-workers expect you and accept you. Wages, that help one feel worthwhile. Diminishing physical competence, including memory losses, aphasias, decreasing strength and sexual competence – are additional burdens in age and can lead to elderly depression.
1. Bible passages: Scriptural passages relating to aging.
2. Website: A link to the Christadelphian Care Group with a brochure entitled Caring Matters - Supporting the Aged. Click here to go to the page. It includes sections on personal circumstances and ecclesia responsibilities.
3. Video: Solutions for caregivers. Contact us to check out this video series for caregivers. It is available on-line for $49.95, but we have one that you can check out for 2 weeks at no charge except return postage.
The Educated Caregiver Video Series: Providing care for a loved one is one of the toughest jobs you can ever have.
Series includes:
- Volume I: Coping Skills
- Volume II: Hands On Skills
- Volume III: Essential Knowledge
4. Creating a Will or Estate Plan
5. "Secret sin."
(NC) stands for non-Christadelphian content. Since this information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine.
To contact the subject leader via email, please click here.
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, you may be an alcoholic and you may need help. The purpose of this web page is to tell you that there is hope, that help is available, that it doesn’t have to be this way anymore, and that you do not have to do this alone. Here is a link to a questionnaire you can use to help decide if you really have a problem with alcohol: 20 Questions: Are You An Alcoholic?
We are convinced, and many studies support, that the 12 step program of Alcoholics Anonymous is the most effective way to abstinence and overcoming this disease.
We believe that participation in AA’s 12 step program is not in conflict with a walk towards God’s Kingdom. We also believe that the principles of the 12 steps have a basis in scripture, and that one alcoholic talking to another is essential for recovery as well. In the near future, we will post to this page a few scriptural references for each of AA’s 12 steps.
In the meantime, please look at AA’s website, learn what it is and what it does and where the meetings are in your local area. If you decide, in all self-honesty, that you are powerless over alcohol and that you want to give up drinking, then make the first step. Call your local central AA office, find a meeting close by, and go to it. You’ll find others there like yourself, who are more than willing and able to help you begin your walk in sobriety. “You don’t have to do this alone, but you alone must do the work involved.”
We would be glad to share our experiences in recovery with you if we can be of any help.
1. Bible passages: Scriptural passages relating to alcohol & drinking.
2. Toll Free Number (US & Canada Only): Bro. Bob and Sis. MaryAnn K can be reached through the Caring Network careline number 1 866-823-1039
3. Website: Here is a web address for AA which has not only much information about the program, but also has directions to get you to a meeting near you. AA is worldwide now; what a blessing. Alcoholics AnonymousDo you or have you had many of the following symptoms?
- Feelings of panic, fear and uneasiness
- Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts
- Repeated thoughts or flashbacks of traumatic experiences
- Nightmares
- Problems of sleeping
- Shortness of breath
- Palpitations
- An inability to be still and calm
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Excessive, ongoing worry and tension
- Muscle tension
- Headaches
- Tiredness
- The need to go to the bathroom frequently
- Trembling
- Difficulty Breathing
- Intense feeling of terror
- A fear that you are losing control or are about to die
- Sweating
If you are, you may be having an anxiety or panic attack and suffering from an anxiety disorder.
Anxiety is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences at times. Many people feel anxious or nervous when faced with a problem at work, taking a test or making an important decision.
Anxiety disorders are different. They can cause so much distress that they interfere with a person’s ability to lead a normal life.
1. Bible Verses to Consider:
1. Bible passages: verses on anxiety.
2. Article: Dealing with Anxiety
3. Book Reviews: Click here to read reviews
4. Websites and Other Sources
- www.anxieties.com
This website gives information to learn
about the various anxiety disorders.
It also has access to further resources and
steps to handle situations.
-
NIMH: Anxiety Disorders This is the
website of the National Institute of Mental
Health, the anxiety disorder page. The
website also has information, research
information, and resources. It also has
an anxiety booklet that can be downloaded and
printed from the website.
- Help
& Support for Panic Disorder
This is a website sponsored by
about.com. They have many websites
about most everything. This website is about
panic/anxiety disorders. It also has
information, other helpful links, access to
medical help, and resources.
5. Contact via e-mail the solution leader for
this topic. Click here.
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
THIS PORTION OF THE SITE IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION.1. Bible Verses to Consider: God's Advice on Hope.
2. Websites:
- BC Cancer website: (NC) has in the Patient/Public info section has lots of info about cancer, cancer treatments, alternative treatments, links to other sites, etc.
- US Government website on cancer
3. Current topic: Hair Loss.
We will use this page to have a current topic of info, renewed every so often. The old topics will remain accessible. You can write the Subject Leader at the link on the top of the page if you would like to write in with suggestions/questions on the topic, or suggest other topics that you would like to see highlighted.
- To view past topics: Food
4. Testimonials: This page is where you can post your own testimonials about your experience with cancer or your experience with someone close to you having cancer. Share with others what has helped you physically, emotionally or spiritually.
5. Hair loss: This page will help you with the loss of hair from chemotherapy.
(NC) stands for non-Christadelphian content. Since this information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine.
To contact the subject leader via email, please click here.
Child abuse and child sexual abuse are not the subject of "polite" conversation...but they should be . Child abuse and child sexual abuse often thrive in religious communities because it is something we just don't talk about. This means that victims often don't get the help they need and the perpetrators are free to find the next victim. If we think that this problem is something unique to the much publicized cases in the Catholic Church, we are only fooling ourselves. It is only through education coupled with open and honest dialog that we can both protect our children and follow the Biblical models of repentence, forgiveness and justice.
1. Bible verses to consider: God's advice concerning child abuse and child sexual abuse.
2. Article: Protecting Our Children.
3. Website (NC): The site bills itself as the seven steps to Preventing, Recognizing, and Reacting Responsibly to Child Sexual Abuse - A Guide for Responsible Adults. Click here.
4. Telephone number (NC): Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) (USA Only) - toll free 1-800-656-4673
5. Help for the abused: If you are being abused, here is a confidential way to contact a Christadelphian by email for help, and a phone number to call in North America (866-823-1039).
6. Book for adult survivors of child abuse: Review of Secret Scars by Cynthia Crosson Tower.
7. Article: Minimizing the Potential for Child Abuse/Child Sexual Abuse at Bible Schools and Gatherings
8. Powerpoint Presentations: We have two presentations to educate your ecclesial family. The first is for adults with the goal of educating our members on the realities of child abuse/child sexual abuse. The second presentation is a more sensitive, child oriented education for our children.
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
THIS PAGE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
1. Bible verses to consider: God's Advice on the Dealing with the Divorce of Parents.
2. Website:
3. VIDEO:
4.
(NC) stands for non-Christadelphian content. Since this information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine.
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
Christadelphians do not participate in military service. Depending on the country of residence, this can be a small problem or a huge problem. In some countries, there is no alternative to military service other than forced labor, prison or even execution. With the tremendous variations in the way countries treat conscientious objectors, we can only provide here some tools that must be tailored to the country in which the CO resides.
1. Bible verses to consider: God's advice on going to war.
2. Websites:
3. Albert Merz letter: Bro. Albert Merz was executed for his CO stance by the Nazis. Here is a letter written by his court-appointed attorney and a to his family shortly before his execution. This material was part of a Thought For the Week sent out in 2002.
4. Powerpoint presentations and handout materials: Suitable for a CYC class. These material can be obtained by contacting the subject leader above via e-mail. The presentations available are:
- Conscientious Objection to Military Service Seminar Materials
- Conscientious Objection & Politics Seminar Materials
- Conscientious Objection to Jury Duty Seminar Materials
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
Christadelphian Youth Circles have been operating around the globe for years. Here are a resources to enhance your local CYC.
Websites: CYC ResourceDuring 2005, a survey was taken by 446 young people CYC age and older. The respondents were from North America, Australia, the UK and New Zealand. The survey was closed for analysis in September 2005 and in December a workshop of youth leaders was held in San Diego to discuss the results that were produced.
The purpose of this survey was to give our community statistical basis on which we could begin to develop a set of resources to be used by youth leaders and youth when facing moral issues. A range of subject areas were asked about in the survey to help determine what particular moral issues our young people are struggling with. It is not surprising that our youth are struggling with many issues that the world challenges us with e.g. trust, pornography, premarital sex, child abuse.
Everyone has experienced feeling a little down at one time in their life.Depression on the other hand is not feeling a "little" down", but a lot and over a sustained period of time. Depression can be caused by a lot of factors both external (losing a loved one, for example) or internal (chemical imbalance). Sometimes you feel depressed for no reason at all.
Depression can change your life from the way you interact with people to your sleep habits to overwhelming fatigue.
Depression can be extremely serious. If thoughts of hurting yourself or suicide are present, please seek professional help immediately.
1. Bible verses to consider:
2. Articles:
3. First-person Acccounts
(If you have been depressed, have lived or worked with a depressed person, or have other personal experience with depression, we encourage you to share those experiences with us. Please submit your written account to the subject leader.Some of these accounts will be posted on this website as a reminder to the rest of us that we are not alone with this problem.)
4. Book reviews
(Abstracts quoted from timelesstexts.com)
- How Christian Is Christian Counseling? The Dangerous Secular Influences That Keep Us from Caring for Souls, by Gary L. Almy, Crossway Books, Wheaton, Illinois, 2000. (NC)
- A Homework Manual for Biblical Living vol. 1, by Wayne A. Mack, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 1979. (NC)
- The Christian Counselor’s Manual,by Jay E. Adams, Zondervan, 1973. “The Christian Counselor's Manual is a companion and sequel to the author's influential Competent to Counsel. It takes the approach of Nouthetic counseling introduced in the earlier volume and applies it to a wide range of issues, topics and techniques in counseling: Who is qualified to be a counselor? How can counselees change? How does the Holy Spirit work? What role does hope play? What is the function of language? How do we ask the right questions? What often lies behind depression? How do we deal with anger? What is schizophrenia?” (timelesstexts.com) (NC)
- Blame It on the Brain? Distinguishing Chemical Imbalances, Brain Disorders, and Disobedience, by Edward T. Welch, Presbyterian and Reformed Publishing Company, 1998. “Research suggests that more and more behaviors are caused by brain function or dysfunction. But is it ever legitimate to blame misbehavior on the brain? How can I know whether "My brain made me do it"? Viewing brain problems through the lens of Scripture, Edward T. Welch distinguishes genuine brain disorders from problems rooted in the heart. Understanding that distinction will enable pastors, counselors, families, and friends to help others-or themselves-deal with personal struggles and responsibilities. While focusing on a few common disorders, Dr. Welch lays out a series of practical steps adaptable to a wide range of conditions, habits, or addictions.” (timelesstexts.com)
- The Christian Counselor’s Medical Desk Reference, by Robert D. Smith, M.D. – “Nouthetic Counseling recognizes the importance of working together with physicians, but distinguishing between organic and non-organic sources of problems is often difficult. Dr. Smith's groundbreaking book can help pastors and counselors better understand and treat those under their care.” (timelesstexts.com)
- Competent to Counsel, by Jay Adams
- Biblical View of Self Esteem, by Jay Adams
- Christian Living in the Home, by Jay Adams
- How to Help People Change, by Jay Adams
- How to Handle Trouble, by Jay Adams
- How to Overcome Evil, by Jay Adams
To contact the subject leader via email, please click here.
If you are struggling with drug addiction it can be very discouraging. First of all there are many different drugs which are addictive and that can control a person’s life with varying degrees of negative impact on the life of the addict and of the people around them. There is a wide range of drugs - from socially acceptable drugs such as alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine to prescription drugs such as painkillers, sleeping pills, nerve pills, etc. to the more high profile street drugs like marijuana, crack cocaine, LSD and heroin. All of which can shackle and control your life and negatively impact everyone around you.
If you are a secret addict, that is someone who is secretly addicted to drugs, (or at least you think it is a secret, remember God sees everything) there is still a negative impact on you. You are controlled by your impulses and temptations, you are also held back in what you are capable of in your life spiritually, emotionally creatively and financially. There is a deep sense of guilt coming from a Christadelphian point of view because we know that we are somehow not right with God, when all of our energy, attention and focus is directed towards fulfilling the lusts of the flesh. There is also a negative effect on those around us, whether we realize it or not. It might just be our mood swings or our short temper, but there are visible symptoms that have a negative effect on us and those we love. There is also the example we are setting to others outside of the truth who might otherwise repent and come to the salvation of God.
Some addictions will often lead to depression and isolation from the community. There are some specific reasons for Christadelphians not to use drugs. For one, most of these drugs are illegal and therefore we are not following what we know to be true and faithful… (See Romans 13:1-5 ; 1 Pet 2:13,14 ; Titus 3:1) . We need to follow the rules of the land as we have been told in the scriptures; otherwise we are living lives that are in direct conflict with God’s will. The other reason for not using drugs is that they are intoxicants and we are not to be intoxicated. Being intoxicated gives up your control over your mind and body. It takes away inhibitions that can lead to further sin. Consider the following passages that deal with intoxication: Rom 13:12 – 14 ; Galatians 5:19 – 21; 1 Cor 6:9-11; 1 Cor 5:11 ; Matt 24:45-51 ; Luke 12:45 ; Eph 5:18 ; 1 Thess 5:6 –8.
In order to fight the good fight and to resist the wrong and do what’s right we need to be in control of our faculties and that means being sober. Drugs can diminish our ability to discern between right and wrong, to think clearly and to have will power to resist temptation to sin. It can turn into a real roller coaster ride of sin…which will ultimately leave us outside of the kingdom. Consider the following passages, (1 Thessalonians 5:6-8 ; 1 Peter 1:13-17 ; 1 Peter 5:8,9 ; 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 ; Proverbs 4:23 ; 2 Tim. 1:7; 1 Pet. 4:1-7; Tit. 2:2,4,6,12; Acts 24:25; Gal. 5:23; 2 Pet. 1:6)
The Bible teaches us to avoid sin and temptation, but when we use drugs we are inviting sin into our lives. (Proverbs 22:3 ; 1 Corinthians 15:33 ; Matthew 6:13 ; Matthew 18:8,9) These verses show us that we pray to avoid the occasions of sin and we are to resist sin to the point of cutting off the things that offend. To do whatever it takes to change.( Proverbs 23:17,20,21) We are not to company with people when they are using drugs, especially if we are weak. Also consider, [Prov. 13:20 ; 4:14,15 ; 24:1,2 ; 1 Cor. 5:6,7 ; 2 Cor. 6:14-17 ; Heb. 12:15. Matt. 26:41; 1 Pet. 4:3,4; James 4:4; Psalm 26:5; 119:63]
Drug use can and usually does involve other sins like lying to cover up what we are doing, perhaps being disobedient to our parents who we know would object if they only knew. Drug use negatively affects our work or our schoolwork as we become negligent , absent and careless. It can also lead to stealing or even prostitution to support our habits. Our Bible study and our worship also suffer as a result. In fact there are countless ways in which we sin when we are turning away from God. Drug use also does harm to our bodies, which the Bible teaches are our temples. We are supposed to be very careful what we allow into our bodies and we are to take care of our bodies. See (Romans 12:1,2; 1 Corinthians 6:19,20 ; Luke 12:42ff; 1 Peter 4:10; 1 Cor. 4:2. ; 3 John 2 ; [James 5:13; 2 Kings 20:1-7; 2 Cor. 12:7-10; 2 Sam. 12:13-23] ; Matthew 25:35,36,43.
Drug use sets a very bad example if we are to be ambassadors of Christ. 1 Timothy 4:12 ; Matthew 18:6,7 ; Matthew 5:13-16 ; Ephesians 5:11 ; [1 Pet. 2:15,16; 3:16; 1 Tim. 5:22; Tit. 2:7,8; Rom. 1:32; Prov. 28:10]
Also, if we purchase drugs we are encouraging sin and are responsible… 2 John 9-11. Of course if you are addicted to drugs, you know that you are doing wrong to your self and to God’s glory in you. You may even be familiar with all the verses that speak to your specific problem. What you need now is a plan to succeed in overcoming this obstacle. I am here to tell you that there is help available. Jesus heals all of our infirmities, but first we need to acknowledge that we have a problem. That is always the first step. After that realization, then we can start to take the steps towards recovery and forgiveness.
Narcotics Anonymous (www.na.org) may prove very helpful to you. Narcotics Anonymous or NA came out of the Alcoholics Anonymous system and is very helpful to recovering addicts utilizing a 12 step system which was based on the Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Step system. Another good site is http://www.dependency.ws. Of course these are non-Christadelphian site so take what you want and leave the rest.
If there are other links that you know about that could be helpful here. Please send them to me via email to be considered for addition to this site.
If you would like to talk to someone who can relate Bro. Ed Rivet can be reached through the Caring NetworkCareline number 1 866-823-1039 (US & Canada Only)
THIS PORTION OF THE SITE IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
1. Contacts: If you would like to talk to someone about elder abuse, please contact the Caring Network (North America only) at 866-823-1039 or click here to correspond with someone.
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
THIS PORTION OF THE SITE IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION.
1. Bible verses to consider: God's advice on money and finances'.
2. Article: Thought for the Week: Owe No Man. A short article on debt.
3. Website: A very basic article that includes a simple personal budget. Ideal for young people. Examples in Australian dollars. By Bro. Rob Hyndman.
4. Website: Col Ray E Porter, A Christian View of Personal Finance (NC)
5. Website: Some issues are open to the believer’s conscience. These articles present some things to think about:
6. Powerpoint presentation: God's Money: An exhortation on a Biblical financial perspective primarily for brethren in the US but also applicable to brethren living in a "first world" nation. To view the attached Powerpoint presentation with sound, you need Powerpoint or Powerpoint viewer (which is available for free download at this link). You will need a speaker on your PC to hear this presentation.
Download "Money and the Believer".
(NC) stands for non-Christadelphian content. Since this information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine.
Homeschooling is an alternative choice in the raising of our children. It is obviously a choice that relates to the children’s education, but it is also a choice that affects the lifestyle of the entire family involved.
We chose this lifestyle when our children were young, prior to their school-age years, because of a desire to have a different kind of family life. We wanted to spend more time together as a family, and to teach, learn, and grow together as a unit. We wanted to take our responsibility as parents to include this part of their upbringing as well. We wanted to be able to teach our children what we wanted them to learn, and when we wanted them to learn it. We also wanted to reach towards a simpler, and perhaps more old-fashioned, way of life like years ago when families worked on their farms together and learned both their academic and spiritual lessons together. Although we lived in suburbia instead, we did have a simple and peaceful life educating our two sons at home. They were homeschooled their entire lives until they entered college.
Homeschooling is a choice that people make for a variety of reasons, and it is administered in as many different ways as there are people. Legally, within the United States there is not a uniform law concerning it, and it varies from state to state. The best way to obtain specific information is to contact a local homeschooling support group.
Anyone in our family would be happy to answer any specific questions you might have regarding this process. Our two sons are young adults now and have an interesting perspective on their own experiences. They never desired to go to school outside of home, but they also would be able to express the pros and cons of our decision. Although we greatly enjoyed our homeschooling lifestyle, we are not of the opinion that it is the only way to raise healthy, spiritual children. There is no perfect environment in a fallen world, but we did feel well blessed by this choice and would definitely make the same choice again, if given the opportunity.
To reach the Homeschooling Subject Leader via e-mail, please click here..
1. Legal questions: Home School Legal Defense Association at www.hslda.orgcan provide answers on the laws pertaining to homeschooling in your state.
2. Helpful books: Two comprehensive books that will answer a multitude of questions are: "Homeschooling Almanac" by Michael and Mary Leppert and "Mary Pride's Complete Guide to Getting Started in Homeschooling." These books will provide information regarding basic homeschooling philosophies, how to acquire curriculum, how to find local support groups, etc. Another book I can recommend is "100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum" by Cathy Duffy which will outline the choices available and help determine which curriculum would be the best fit for you and your children.
3. Homeschool conferences: Most states or regions have annual Homeschool Conferences. These conferences usually include a variety of lectures on homeschooling topics, and also vendor halls where one can see the products available to homeschoolers. A great resource for asking questions and buying materials.
4. Local library: Most homeschoolers use this common resource for both information for the parent and material to teach the children. Often underestimated, the library can provide a great deal to the homeschool family.
5. Local support groups: Through one of the books mentioned above, one should be able to find a connection to a local support group. This is where the "real" information lies. What is the easiest way to homeschool in your area, what materials are current, what materials can be shared with others, what field trips and social events are available, etc. Especially at the beginning, this is a dynamic resource.
6. Supplementary materials: Usborne Books were huge in our experience. From history to science to math, our family found great information presented enjoyably and colorfully through Usborne Books. Highly recommend.
The Intentions of This Page
If you are dealing with this trial, I pray that the following information reduces your feelings of loneliness and offers some useful coping tools. If you know someone enduring this trial, I pray that the information increases your understanding and offers guidance for providing support.
Article:Infertility. This article describes the general experience of infertility and offers suggestions for friends, family members, and the couple enduring the trial. It does not address the causes of infertility or the options available for becoming parents. For this additional information, please refer to the Resolve website (www.resolve.org).
Website (NC): www.resolve.org. Resolve is an infertility organization started in 1974. It describes itself as “dedicated to providing education, advocacy, and support”. Two particularly helpful links, Learn and Coping with Infertility, cover the following topics: difficulty conceiving, what is infertility, where do I go from here, treatment options, adoption, childfree living, for family and friends, helpline, bulletin board, online chat, support groups, talking about infertility, managing infertility stress, and coping techniques.
Book (NC): Conquering Infertility: Dr. Alice Domar’s Guide to Enhancing Fertility and Coping with Infertility by Alice Domar and A. Lesch Kelly. This book provides practical techniques for coping with the long-term stress of infertility. She also offers suggestions for coping with key stressful events, including social functions and news of pregnancies.
Book (NC): Empty Womb, Aching Heart: Hope and Help for Those Struggling with Infertility by Marlo Schalesky. This is a Christian book describing different people’s experiences of infertility.
To contact the Subject Leader, please click here.
Ultimately, we only have one leader and that is Christ. However, Jesus is not literally, physically with us in the sense that he is present at meetings, commenting and organising our activities. We therefore need leaders, brothers and sisters who will take responsibility for initiatives, manage the details and complete the event. Ecclesial leadership is a great opportunity and equally a great responsibility.
1. Article: Ecclesial Leadership by Colin Edwards.
2. Books:
Principles of Ecclesial Life by Don Styles. Published by ‘The Christadelphians’ GPO Box 159, Hyderabad, 500 001, India.
Reformation by Harry Whittaker. Published by ‘Biblia’ and obtainable from Muriel Whittaker.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder has been one of the most mysterious afflictions in the annals of psychiatric literature. It shows itself in a wide variety of thought and behavioral symptoms (not all in the same patient, thankfully) which even the sufferer nearly always recognizes as absurd. He is not “crazy”, and in fact is often among the most rational of humans. But he does irrational things and thinks irrational thoughts, and this frightens him. The rest of us have similar thoughts and behaviors at times, yet we are not afraid of them.
A person with OCD may have counting or repeating rituals that he feels he must perform, such as having to enter a doorway seven times before he can stay, or counting all the books on a shelf three times before selecting one. He may be intensely fearful of germs or contamination. He may be tormented by thoughts about harming an innocent or vulnerable person, or by thoughts of blasphemy, violence or sexual perversion.
Among the visible symptoms of OCD are those that involve repetitious actions, such as washing or checking. A person may wash repeatedly until his hands are raw, still unconvinced that they are clean enough. Or, one might go back and check the house 30 times to make sure the door is really locked, leaving home (if at all) still with the lingering doubt that her door is in fact secured.
As diverse as the symptoms are, all are occasions of doubt. Vast amounts of time may be wasted as the obsessive seeks to close the gap between probability and certainty. It can’t be done, of course. Faith is needed, even in everyday matters.
Besides its serious practical consequences, our obsessive quest for certainty leaves no room for faith. Faith is a key concern for us as followers of Christ, and our desire is to nurture it. We hope that can happen here.
To reach the OCD Subject Leader via e-mail, please click here.
1. Articles: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Crisis of Faith
2. Recent First-Person Accounts
(If you have experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder, either directly as a person with the disorder, or indirectly as a family member or close friend of such a person, we encourage you to share those experiences with us. Please submit your written account to the subject leader. Some of these accounts will be posted on this website as a reminder to the rest of us that we are not alone with this problem.)
3. Book Reviews:
- Tormenting Thoughts and Secret Rituals
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (a complete guide to getting well and staying well)
- Obsessive-Compulsives Anonymous
- The Imp of the Mind: Exploring the Silent Epidemic of Obsessive Bad Thoughts
- Stop Obsessing!
Websites and other resources
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
One of God's greatest blessings is that of children. That doesn't mean that parenting is without its challenges. On the pages in this section, we deal with the issue of parenting in the Lord.
1. Bible verses to consider: God's advice on parenting.
2. Online resources:Click here to go to the page.
3. Quotes: Here are some excellent quotes from Christadelphian writers such as John Thomas and Robert Roberts: (click here).
4. Books on parenting:Book list.
5. Article: Loss of a Child.
6. Articles on parenting stages:
(NC) stands for non-Christadelphian content. Since this information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine.
To contact the Subject Leader via e-mail, click here.
Pornography is so prevelant in our society today, you can access porn via your computer or TV in literally the flick of a switch. If you don't come to it, it will come to you via illicit e-mails or magazines openly displayed in a store. Despite its prevalence, it is by nature a secret sin.
Pornography has gained a certain acceptability in these Last Days. Unless you are trafficking in child pornography, there is very little that the government will do. It is anything but a victimless crime. Many women are coerced and abused in the pornography industry. Likewise, monies used for soft porn are often used to bankroll hard care porn and illegal activities such as child pornography. Most importantly, to participate in such an industry dishonors our Heavenly Father and Lord Jesus Christ.
We list for your consideration several resources which should aid those who are caught up in this "secret sin."
Bible verses to consider: God's advice concerning pornography.
Article: 10 Quick Reasons NOT to View Pornography.
Article: The Christadelphian Tidings editorial entitled "Nobody Knows".
Book (NC): Every Man's Battle by Stephen Arterburn, Fred Stoeker w/ Mike Yorkey
This books is excellent on the topic of sexual immorality in the form of pornography, wandering eyes and masturbation. It also includes information on a practical plan for sexual purity. It is published by Focus on the Family so it includes references to Satan and the Trinity. Available for $10.49 from Amazon.com.
Website (NC): http://www.no-porn.com/
The site includes a short paper entitled "Breaking Pornography Addiction -- A Plan for Personal Success" in which the author tells how he defeated porn addiction.
Website (NC): http://www.leaderu.com/orgs/probe/docs/pornplag.html
Kerby Anderson explores the societal and psychological effects of porn consumption. Has many excellent statistics.
Website (NC): Troubled with...
(NC) stands for non-Christadelphian content. Since this information was obtained from a non-Christadelphian source. It may contain some material which is contrary to sound doctrine.
Here are some other resources on the Internet that you might want to visit in alphabetical order.
The
Bible - God's Guide for Your Life
The Newbury UK ecclesia's site.
The Caring
Network
A Canadian site with the following mission: "The
Christadelphian Caring Network endeavours to
support caring efforts in our Southern Ontario
community. We provide resources for ecclesias and
individuals on life problems, whether spiritual,
emotional or family. We provide a "Care-Line", a
telephone line where brothers and sisters in need
may obtain, on a confidential basis, a listening
ear, guidance and spiritual care. We conduct
periodic seminars on caring subjects."
The
Christadelphian Care Group
A UK site which is dedicated to "Bringing
together those in need and seeking help and the
skills and experience of brothers and sisters in
the love of the Father in Christ Jesus."
Dandenong
Bible Education Centre
A site sponsored by a Christadelphian ecclesia in
Melbourne Australia, there is excellent material
on varied topics such as:
- Teach Your Baby (or Pre-Schooler) to Read
- How to Raise a Responsible Child
- Dealing with Depression
- The Story of the Bible
- Learn First Aid – Senior Course
- Rediscovering first-century Christianity
- God and You Through Jesus
- Building Self Esteem
Troubled
With
A non-Christadelphian site run by the evangelical
Focus on the Family. Covers a multitude of
problem-specific areas.
Williamsburg
Christadelphian Foundation
Homepage of the foundation behind this site.
