Church and Softball?

[tcannizzo]

Yep now I remember. Didn't recognize you.
Glad to see you are still active.
Not sure about lawsuits, but it wouldn't surprise me, but I think he was the reason FPF came to an end.

[BearsDad]

thanks for all the input.

I did make a decision. It is only her 2nd year of 10s. We decided to go back to recball for a season. she will be moving up to jr high and I think it is important to be involved with her sunday school group for a while longer. our church does not have sat night service. we used to have a sat night small group at our house, but have not done it in awhile.

thanks again for the sincere advise

[socal8]

..same problem with my daughter. Even had some church elders ridicule my daughter for choosing Softball over Church.

These are older folks that didn't know the connection and importance of of today's athletes and athletic competition (intertwined with academics) and how it relates to their future college ambitions. Our church does not have a strong youth group.

I set these folks straight. I told them flat-out that I did not want to hear any more critisism to her, personally. And that if they had a problem, to address me...not her. Further, that if they didn't appreciate my membership, I would be very happy to travel to a different location of my faith and support that congregation, instead. (You would be surprised how even with religion, the bottom line comes down to the almighty dollar.)

I suggested that they create an optional service during the mid-week. Partly to bolster their own failing youth membership. Of course, many traditionalist don't even want to hear those types of suggestions.

In the interim, for those Sundays of conflict, I've made it a practice to attend an optional church that is not of my denomination...but, does provide a mid-week service.

I have also made it very clear to our Deacon and church president of my displeasure with those small-minded folks with tunnel-vision. That I would not be opposed to abandoning the congregation in a heart-beat, if necessary. They both assured me of that type of intolerence is not acceptable, and would stop immendiately.
I noticed that nothing further has been said ny church members. And one of those that said something to my daughter, has since apologized. However, I can tell there is a bit of residue from those that don't agree.

The above incident happened about 4 years ago. My daughter is now approaching 19 and attending college in Virginia. All but one of those, that were involved, have either passed away, are unable to attend due to health, or have moved away. Today, the congregation is desperately trying to recruit new and younger members. One of the approaches they are embracing is conducting a Wednesday night "Contemporary style" service that is geared towards a younger crowd.

If you feel the need, feel free to share this experience with your folks, as well.

[joaquinjunior]

those elders ought to be ashamed of themselves, for doing that. shame on them. Praise God for His grace.

[Sparky Guy]

Serious question; Why is it that athletes only give thanks to God when they do something good? We always see Tebow kneel and give thanks after a TD, or some hitter look to God when they cross home plate after smacking a 500ft homer.... how come ive never seen them look to God after they strike out looking? or throw a pick late in the game??

What about the pitcher who gave up the walk-off HR who was praying they would get the hitter out? The kicker who misses the last second game tying field goal?

I still haven't figured that one out myself.....

[joaquinjunior]

and you never will. see our God is not a god that is in a box, that you can call on whenever you need something or want something. He is an All Powerfull God who will answer our prayers how ever, and whenever He wishes. everybodies prayers are answered differently. We have a big problem to thank God and serve God only when things are going right for us. And when something wrong happens, then we get mad at God, and curse God. You have it all wrong my brother. we should worship God, love God and praise God all the times, even when that field goal is missed or when that walk-off HR is given up. God wants to see just how much we really trust Him. and love Him. in the good times, and in the bad. Always trust in the Lord, lean not on your own understanding. but aknowledge God for who He is and what He's done , and will do. all of His promises are yes and amen. Thanks for reading.

[deleonassoc]

nicely said

[superD3]

Yes, He is not Santa Clause or some majic genie, He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother if you will only treat Him that way you will find that things begin to look a little different.

[DonnieS]

Yes, He is not Santa Clause or some majic genie, He is a friend that sticks closer than a brother if you will only treat Him that way you will find that things begin to look a little different.

And like deleon said to JJ, nicely said.

[joaquinjunior]

thank you guys. praise God. thanks.