Autumn ‘09
Posted by Tia Ciferno and filed in Blog, Photo JournalOh, Lord, You are my God; I will exalt You and praise Your Name, for in perfect faithfulness You have done marvelous things, things planned long ago. Isaiah 25:1
As always, the Lord was “perfectly faithful” in the whirlwind of ministry this fall.
He did marvelous things! Here is a photo journal, but check the blog entitled “October Miracles” for more beautiful stories from the past weeks.
In September I spent time with the women of Grace United Methodist Church in Warren, PA; and with St Cyrils’ of Warren, OH for their Bible Study kick-off; we were also at Poland United Methodist Church to celebrate their 125th Anniversary, and at Hillside Rehab Hospital for a mini-concert there. I sang in the very spot where we celebrated my mom’s birthday after her aneurism. Amazing.
My first ministry in October was at Sandy’s for a Living Room Concert in The Villages, Fl.
Here is Char, Joan and my dear friend Jane, who hosted me in her home.
Sandy took out her authentic English china and used it for our gathering for the first time ever! She’d said she’s had it for over 20 years, and was happy to bless us with it’s beauty~
We all talked about living life now and not waiting for tomorrow.
Here is Char with Sandy…our hostess that day.
The next day was a visit to the Springs Assisted Living center for a mini-concert, then on to a wonderful gathering of ladies (over 100) at St Timothy’s there in The Villages. Maria was one of the organizers, and the hospitality was just the best. Our Lord was there with us.
The following day was a Living Room Ministry at Loretta’s home (3rd from the left)…
Loretta treated us like royalty! We had about ten ladies attend, and shared music and our stories and needs…and then an amazing lunch.
On my last (4th) day there, I woke early to take a walk, and this was my reward~
an “other-worldly” fog had settled on the morning, giving me the sense of rest and protection, even in the midst of such a busy schedule. Oud God knows how to refresh us.
Almost home, the fog was lifting, and I got this shot of a flock of ibis.
Or are those lawn ornaments?
My last ministry was to the women who work at The Villages Sales office in the Eagles Nest of the Grand Hotel downtown. It’s a beautiful place, and even more beautiful are these sisters who all love the Lord and gather when they can so they can pray and support eachother. Angie organized this ministry. She loves these ladies, and we had a precious time together.
I thought I’d bless you (especially my co-inhabitants of the chilly north) with this bit of “photo warmth” from that journey. It was a record breaking 95 degrees. I came home to the 40’s in Ohio (and some gorgeous fall trees!)
One day of rest, and back on the road to lead a retreat for the beautiful women in West Spring, PA. There were ladies from many different churches gathered at West Spring Congregational Church for their 2nd annual retreat. Donna and her team there organized the Harvest theme and it was fantastic.
This little country church gives the speaker/singer a panoramic view out of its tall windows. Last year was the first time in my life that I got to watch horses galloping past while singing.
Our prayer time at the end of the day was one of the most meaningful I’ve ever experienced! What women of courage! What battles they are facing, and how transparent they were with eachother. It was inspiring and we left with a great sense of the Lord’s love for us and intervention in our lives.
…that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love.” Col 2:2
Here is one side of the gathering…
And here is the other!
I miss you ladies already.
It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart… Phil 1:7
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And after that flurry of travel and ministry, I was ready to crash like our new kitty.
Now we are resting up for the great JOY of meeting more of you in the weeks ahead! Please pray for each gathering, that the One Who longs to comfort every hurting heart, and Who calls us all by name would bring us all to a place of Rest in His Love.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:29
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