Thoughtful Reflections on Faith and Life
Galatians 4:21-31 Introduction A number of years ago, I was able to track down who my birth father was. For many people, that might be a traumatic event, but I found it to be a great adventure. Although he was dead, I was able to at least know who my birth family were. The highlight … Read More “A Great Lineage” »
I frequently hear Christians outside of the United States, including evangelicals, wondering how American conservative Christians can be so supportive of Donald Trump. Now, I am also aware that there were many American evangelicals who voted for Trump while “holding their noses.” There were many things about Trump that they did not like but they … Read More “Why Are Conservative Christians So Supportive of Donald Trump?” »
When the First World War erupted in 1914, the United States initially stayed out of the conflict. Despite being the world’s largest industrial power, America was hesitant to intervene in what was seen as a European struggle. President Woodrow Wilson declared neutrality, reflecting both the country’s isolationist tendencies and the diverse immigrant population that had … Read More “The United States in the First World War” »
As I recently announced, I will soon begin a new position as a permanent instructor at the Canadian Forces Chaplain School and Centre. But that does not mean that my time as a student is finished. I just returned from two weeks at the chaplain school where I was taking the Initial Leadership Course. This … Read More “Another Course Completed” »
Galatians 4:8-20 Introduction I want you to think of people who have had the most impact on you. It may be a pastor or a teacher or an employer. It could even have been someone in the community who had a public presence and you looked up to them. How did they carry themselves in … Read More “A Great Transparency” »
I have been generally disappointed with the most recent Marvel movies. They have been most focused on building in interconnect universe than telling good stories. Fantastic Four was supposed to change that. And it does. I think it helps that the new Fantastic Four is not really connected to the rest of the MCU (yet) … Read More “Fantastic Four: First Steps – Review” »
In recent decades, interest in ancient pre-Christian religions has experienced a revival, with Norse Paganism—often referred to as Heathenry or Ásatrú—gaining particular attention. This movement draws inspiration from the myths, sagas, and folklore of the pre-Christian Norse world, but it is also shaped by modern spiritual needs and social contexts. Norse Paganism and Norse Mythology At the heart … Read More “The Modern Faith Movement of Norse Paganism” »
My Good News post for this week is big news for our family. It is also bittersweet. Yesterday, we (Amanda and I) announced our resignation as co-pastors of Brookfield Baptist Church. The obvious questions are why and what church are we going to next? The second question is easy, as I am not currently planning … Read More “A Huge Change For Us” »
Galatians 3:19-29 Introduction I want you to think about different jobs that you have had over your lifetime. What did it look like when you would first show up to work? What that looked like may or may not depend on how long you had been in that position. There are two scenarios in particular … Read More “A Great Transition” »
Conservative influencer Charlie Kirk has been murdered. This act of violence has shocked many. Even if Kirk was controversial, to be killed in such a public way looks more like a television plot than reality. In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s murder, I have seen two main reactions. Both concern me. There are those who … Read More “Charlie Kirk, Violence, and Polarization” »
One of my roles is that of military chaplaincy. I am privileged to be able to be a chaplain with the Nova Scotia Highlanders and 3 Intelligence Company. Summers are a time when people either do full-time employment or are off. But in September, we go back to our regular training. This past week was … Read More “Back to Training” »
Galatians 3:15-18 Introduction What does it mean to promise someone something? And in what context would you promise? Not every statement is or should be a promise. “I promise to drink some coffee after church.” “I promise to put gas in my vehicle at some point.” There is no reason to promise those things. Usually … Read More “A Great Promise” »
Introduction Although often overlooked in the broader narrative of the Second World War, Brazil played a significant and unique role in the Allied effort. From protecting vital shipping lanes in the Atlantic to sending troops to fight on European soil, Brazil’s contributions were both strategic and symbolic. Brazil’s Military at the Outset At the beginning … Read More “Brazil’s Involvement in the Second World War” »
In the UK, you generally cannot be arrested simply for expressing a political or religious opinion, including criticism of transgender issues, as free expression is protected. However, the situation is nuanced because UK law also places limits on speech, especially where it crosses into hate speech or harassment. Here’s how it works: 1. Relevant Laws 2. Criticism vs. … Read More “Can You Be Arrested in the UK for Criticizing Transgender Ideology on Social Media?” »
What does one do on a holiday? Many would look to do a special outing. But I am an introvert and I look for something different. As I look at things that I am thankful for, one would definitely the opportunity to relax with a good book. Today was a beautiful summer day. It was … Read More “Relaxing With a Book” »
Galatians 3:1-14 Introduction How do you respond when you get frustrated, especially when you get frustrated with a person? There are all sorts of things that people do. Some people bite their lip so they do not say something they might regret. Some people go for a run or do some other exercise to blow … Read More “A Great Example” »
I have a complicated relationship with Christian apologetics. I strongly believe in the need for apologetics but have been disappointed and discouraged by what I see. I have been thinking a lot about this and I believe I have come to a conclusion about the core problem of Christian apologetics. I believe that it comes … Read More “The Core Problem With Christian Apologetics” »
When the Second World War began in September 1939, air power was still a relatively young branch of the military. Yet, it was already clear that air superiority would be critical in shaping the conflict. By this time, several nations had developed large, modernized air forces equipped with fighters, bombers, and reconnaissance planes. Below are … Read More “The Top Five Air Forces at the Beginning of the Second World War” »
I have been losing excitement over the Marvel Cinematic Universe in recent years. I rarely see the movies in the theatre unless it is a major event. I was intrigued by the concept of Thunderbolts* but waited until it was available on Disney Plus. In a number of recent Marvel series, Valentina Allegra de Fontaine … Read More “Thunderbolts* – Review” »
My Good News post for this week is a rather odd one. It is about my recent activity in purging my personal library. Those who have known me well and for a while will know that I have been a long time book collector. I have amassed a sizeable library and I did enjoy collecting … Read More “Purging My Library” »
Galatians 2:15-21 Introduction You receive a phone call or an email by someone telling you that they are giving you a brand new car. Not only are they giving you that car, they are paying for your insurance, all car maintenance, and even the gas for as long as you own that car. They tell … Read More “A Great Offer” »
When I had returned to faith in my early twenties, if I randomly turned on Christian radio, there was a good chance that I would hear James Dobson, a person connected with James Dobson, or people discussing issues as taught by James Dobson. James Dobson was a Christian psychologist and the founder of the influential … Read More “Why Some People Have Been Critical of the Legacy of James Dobson” »
The Luftwaffe, Germany’s air force during the Second World War, was at the forefront of aerial innovation and combat tactics in the early years of the conflict. From the rapid victories of 1939–1941 to the attrition of the later years, the aircraft of the Luftwaffe played a decisive role in both German successes and ultimate … Read More “Aircraft of the Luftwaffe in the Second World War” »
I pastor in a small village that includes only two churches. We have had a number of opportunities to work together over the past few years. This summer, we tried something new. While I was on vacation for two weeks, the people of Brookfield Baptist Church joined with Knox United Church. During the past two … Read More “Churches Joining Together” »
Galatians 2:11-14 Introduction One of the virtues that is universally respected is that of courage. Of course there are different kinds of courage. For example, it takes some courage to eat a pepper that you know will be extremely hot. You know there is pain on the other side but you choose to do it … Read More “A Great Courage” »
The French Foreign Legion (Légion étrangère) is one of the most storied and enigmatic military units in the world. Known for its mystique, strict discipline, and the willingness to take men from any background—friend or foe alike—it has served France in some of the harshest conditions and bloodiest conflicts of the past two centuries. Origins … Read More “The History of the French Foreign Legion: From Colonial Battlegrounds to Modern Deployments” »
Many Christians are very concerned about the suffering in Gaza. There is increasing evidence that there is some significant suffering including a famine. The World Council of Churches has issued a statement on their concern over the crisis in Gaza. But not all Christians feel the same way. There are some Christians who seem to … Read More “Why Are Some Christians Skeptical of Suffering in Gaza?” »
There are churches that prefer not to work with other churches at all. There are other churches that work only with congregations within the same denomination. What about churches of other denominations? At our church, we are just finishing up a time of combined services with a church of a different denomination. Our people went … Read More “Should Churches Work With Churches of Other Denominations?” »
No, I am not entering the boxing ring. I am returning to a different kind of ring, the Lord of the Rings. While I have lost count, I suspect I have read the Lord of the Rings approximately ten times. There was a time when I read it every year. While I have a nice … Read More “Returning to the Ring” »
Galatians 2:1-10 Introduction On January 1, 1942, the Grand Alliance was formed. This was an alliance between Britain, the United States, and the Soviet Union. The beginning of the war was Britain and France against Germany. Unfortunately, France was defeated leaving Britain only supported by her Commonwealth. In June, 1941, Germany invaded the Soviet Union … Read More “A Great Cooperation” »
December 7, 1941. A day that will live in infamy. The Japanese attack Pearl Harbor in Hawaii. This would forever change the course of the Second World War. In this episode, we look at the broad strokes of what happened that day. Please visit me at https://www.stephenjbedard.com/secondworldwar and consider supporting me at http://www.patreon.com/hopesreason.
I have been following the adventures of Sean Feucht with his attempt at a Canadian tour and the opposition that he has faced. Feucht has been clear on his interpretation of the events. Canadian authorities are persecuting him and this is part of a wider persecution against the church in Canada. I find this of … Read More “Sean Feucht, Freedom of Speech, and Persecution” »
One of the things that I enjoy about living in the Maritimes is that the army chaplains in 36 Brigade get together regularly. Our brigade consists of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. We have different kinds of get togethers but one of them is an annual exercise where we spend a few days together. … Read More “More Time With Chaplains” »
Galatians 1:11-24 Introduction One of the genres of books that I enjoy reading is that of biography. Sometimes it is a biography of a pastor or theologian, sometimes a military leader, sometimes a politician. Have you ever wondered what qualifies someone to have a biography written about them? Of course we are all free to … Read More “A Great Story (That Glorifies God)” »
The Fantastic Four hold a special place in comic book history, not just as a superhero team, but as the foundation of the Marvel Universe as we know it. Created in 1961 by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby, the Fantastic Four were a revolutionary force that redefined superhero comics and set Marvel Comics … Read More “The Creation and Legacy of the Fantastic Four: Marvel’s First Family” »
One of the strongest franchises of the MCU were the Captain America movies. Each of the three movies in the original trilogy were solid and continue to hold up. After Avengers: Endgame, Steve Rogers gave the Captain America mantle to Sam Wilson, who had been the hero Falcon. The transition from Falcon to Captain America … Read More “Captain America: Brave New World – Review” »
Galatians 1:6-10 Introduction One of the most popular online activities for many people these days is watching short videos, whether they are TikToks or Instagram reels or YouTube shorts. The actual content of these short videos can vary but some of the most popular videos are of people doing very stupid things. You can watch … Read More “The Great Atonishment” »
The German Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger, more commonly known simply as the Tiger tank, became one of the most iconic and feared armored vehicles of the Second World War. Known for its formidable firepower and nearly impenetrable armor, the Tiger was both a technological marvel and a logistical challenge. This blog post explores the development, deployment, and … Read More “The Development of the German Tiger Tank During the Second World War” »
Christian singer and speaker Sean Feucht has been attempting to have a Canadian tour. It is not going well for him as venue after venue is cancelling. Read: Permit revoked for MAGA musician’s concert at Parks Canada site, but show will go on Here is his official statement on X: Not surprisingly, Feucht is trying … Read More “Why is Sean Feucht Being Cancelled in Canada?” »
There were a lot of memes and jokes after two married (not to each other) people were caught on the “kiss cam” at a Coldplay concert. This will be one of the enduring images of 2025. However, what happened is bigger than just two people getting caught doing something they should not have. When we … Read More “The Real Lesson From the Coldplay Kiss Cam” »
Each Monday I share something that I am thankful for, some piece of Good News. Sometimes it is a major event and sometimes it is smaller but still meaningful. For part of this afternoon and this evening, I got to listen to Amanda practicing on her digital piano. I have often found her playing on … Read More “Listening to the Music” »
Galatians 1:1-4 Introduction Today we start a new series, one on Paul’s letter to the Galatians. I have some great fondness toward this letter. It is possibly Paul’s earliest letter and even the earliest Christian writing that we have. But beyond all of that, this letter gets to the heart of the gospel. Paul was … Read More “The Great Rescue” »
I recently looked at Anthony Costello’s concerns about the recent Superman movie. Those concerns were based on aesthetics. However, Anthony has further theological issues with what James Gunn’s Superman. In a blog post titled James Gunn’s Superman: Christus or Prometheus?, Anthony works through what he considers to be some very serious issues, especially for Christians … Read More “Theological Issues With James Gunn’s Superman?” »
This is not another review of Superman as I have already reviewed the new Superman movie. Rather this is a response to a blog post by Anthony Costello titled James Gunn’s Not So Super “Superman.” Anthony is a Christian apologist. That is not a critique or a reason to discount his thoughts as I also … Read More “James Gunn’s Praiseworthy Superman” »
Terry Sloane – The Golden Age Visionary Terry Sloane was the original Mr. Terrific, debuting in Sensation Comics #1 in 1942. A child prodigy and Olympic-level athlete, he mastered martial arts and became a successful businessman at a young age. Despite his achievements, Sloane felt unfulfilled until he saved a woman from suicide. This inspired him to … Read More “Who is Mr. Terrific?” »
After almost six weeks at CFB Borden, teaching at the Canadian Forces Chaplain School and Centre, I am back in Nova Scotia with my family. I had a great time there. Two fo my favourite things are teaching and chaplaincy and I got to do both. Plus I got to make some new friends and … Read More “I’m Back!” »
I have been waiting for a really good Superman movie for a long time. Superman Returns was a disappointment. Man of Steel was good but had some issues. Nowe we have been given James Gunn’s Superman. This is the Superman movie I have been waiting for. Like Man of Steel which kicked off the shared … Read More “Superman – Review” »
At the dawn of the Second World War in 1939, naval power was a key determinant of global influence. Nations with strong navies could project power across oceans, secure supply routes, and dominate in both defensive and offensive operations. The top five navies at the start of WWII were those of the United Kingdom, United States, Japan, France, and Italy. … Read More “The Top Five Most Powerful Navies at the Beginning of the Second World War” »
For my Good News post, I often share something good that has happened that I am thankful for. This time I am thinking not of a specific event but something more general. I have many people in my life from different areas who are very encouraging. They push me to try new things and to … Read More “Encouraging People in My Life” »
A month or so ago, I notice quite a few Christians posting on social media, statements by a person (that we had never heard of before) named YoungHoon Kim. This person, who self-describes as the “Highest IQ Record Holder” made a number of very pro-Christian statements. Here is just one example: There are many more … Read More “Why Have Christians Been Drawn to YoungHoon Kim?” »
I am obviously interested in the Second World War, since I host a podcast on the subject. I also am an army chaplain in the Canadian Armed Forces and so am deeply interested in chaplaincy. It is only logical that I also be interested in chaplaincy during the Second World war. While I have some … Read More “German Military Chaplains in World War II – Review” »
I am proud of all of my children. I love them for who they are and not just what they accomplish. Having said that, I do celebrate what they accomplish. This past week, our daughter Emma graduated from high school. This was an exciting day for our entire family. Emma started high school not that … Read More “Graduation Day!” »
One of the most transformative events in Canadian history was the First World War. It was in the Great War that Canada proved itself as a nation. But there were plenty of speed bumps along the way. Desmond Morton outlines the Canadian involvement in the First World War in When Your Numbers Up. (Amazon affiliate … Read More “When Your Numbers Up – Review” »
I have shared that I have been teaching at the Canadian Forces Chaplain School and Centre. There are at least two things that I enjoy about this. One is the act of teaching. The other is spending time with chaplains. While I am here as incremental staff, I also get to spend a lot of … Read More “Enjoying Time With Chaplains” »
Acts 12:3-17 Introduction The questions that I most often encounter are things like why did this bad thing happen or why did this good thing not happen? Those are normal questions to ask but how often we ask those questions may depend our theological context. I attended a church where many of the people believed … Read More “Why Do Good Things Happen?” »
China’s experience in World War II was one of immense suffering, resilience, and transformation. While much of the global focus is on Europe and the Pacific islands, China endured a brutal war against Japan that began before World War II officially started and continued until Japan’s surrender in 1945. This war not only shaped China’s … Read More “China in World War II: Invasion, Civil War, and Global Alliances” »
The Baháʼí Faith is one of the youngest world religions, emerging in the 19th century amidst a time of great political, religious, and social change. Rooted in the Middle East, it has since grown into a global religion with millions of adherents across every continent. Its message of unity and peace continues to inspire followers … Read More “Understanding the Baháʼí Faith: Origins, Beliefs, and Global Reach” »
I love all five of my children and I am extremely proud of every one of them. While I could go on and on about each one, there are a couple of things that are making me think of this. This past week was Emma’s prom, part of the celebrations as she ends her time … Read More “I Love My Children!” »
Acts 12:1-5 Introduction Is life fair? I suppose that depends on what we mean by ‘fair.’ When we complain that life is just not fair, what we normally mean is that we feel that it is not right that this bad thing is happening to us or someone we care about. We might say the … Read More “When Life is Not Fair” »
We have been primarily following the German war machine during 1941. However, this year was to radically change the face of the Second World War before it ended. This would be the fateful day of December 7, 1941 and the attack on Pearl Harbor. But before we get to that, we catch up with Japan … Read More “SWWP 46 – The Road to Pearl Harbor: Japan in 1941” »
One of the well known aspects of the Easter story is the burying of Jesus in the tomb of Arimithea. Of course skeptics are going to have all sorts of problems with this story. I dealt with the suggestion that Jesus was not buried at all in this video: But another question could be about … Read More “Was Joseph of Arimathea a Disciple of Jesus?” »
While I arrived a week ago, today was the first day of teaching classes at the chaplain school at CFB Borden. It was a good first day. We have some great students, people who represent the diversity of the CAF. I had gotten to know some of them in a previous course but am meeting … Read More “Classes Have Started” »
There are many Christian charities all around the world. Whatever criticism the Church may deserve, Christians have had a positive impact on the world. There are hospitals, homeless shelters, soup kitchens, counselling centres, and many other programs designed to meet people’s needs. But what is the ultimate goal of this? Specifically, for evangelicals? I grew … Read More “Why Should Christians Care For People’s Needs?” »
During World War II, the German armed forces—collectively known as the Wehrmacht—included the Army (Heer), Navy (Kriegsmarine), and Air Force (Luftwaffe). Each branch had its own rank structure, though many shared similar titles or followed parallel hierarchies. Understanding these ranks provides important insight into how Nazi Germany’s military machine operated and helps put historical records and … Read More “Understanding German Military Ranks During World War II” »
I have been a military chaplain for thirteen years. For much of that time, I have been taking courses to become fully qualified. Last May, I took my final required course and reached Operational Function Point (OFP). I remember on the last day of that course asking if they ever brought in reservists as incremental … Read More “Teaching at the Chaplain School” »
In 1938, a hero from another planet crash-landed on Earth—not in a fiery meteor, but on the pages of Action Comics #1. With that single leap, Superman forever changed pop culture, launching the superhero genre as we know it. But his origins began years earlier, in the imaginations of two Cleveland teenagers with big dreams and … Read More “The Birth of a Legend: The Creation of Superman and His Early Legacy” »
Before I go any farther, I want to make it clear that I identify as an evangelical. I speak not as an outsider who hates evangelicals but as an insider who is concerned. Most of the things that I am going to include are bad of themselves but how they are used can be dangerous … Read More “5 Idols of Evangelicalism” »
I got my first tattoo when I turned fifty. I have since come to enjoyed tattoos and have gotten a number more. What’s better than getting a tattoo? Getting tattooed with someone you care about. Amanda and I got matching tattoos for our 20th wedding anniversary. Now it has happened again, but not with Amanda. … Read More “Bedards Inked” »
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 Introduction We have been looking at the nature of God, looking at God the Father and then God the Son. Now we look at God the Spirit. I find this more of a challenge. When we hear Father, certain concrete images come to mind. When we hear Son, certain concrete images come … Read More “God the Spirit” »
Two of my greatest interests are autism and apologetics. When both topics come together, I’m in my happy place. One of the podcasts that I listen to is Christianity on the Spectrum, a podcast that looks at autistic people, both Christian and ex-Christian. One of their recent episodes was called Autism and Apologetics. This episode … Read More “Apologetics, Autism, and Important Lessons” »
Introduction The tank, a formidable symbol of modern warfare, dramatically reshaped military strategy in the 20th century. From its origins in the muddy trenches of the First World War to the sweeping armored offensives of the Second World War, the tank evolved rapidly in design, doctrine, and deployment. Origins and Invention The tank was conceived … Read More “The Development of the Tank up to the End of the Second World War” »
No, I did not get into a fight. But I did go and see a fight. Fifteen of them actually. I had never gone to see boxing in person and I was not sure I wanted to. But my daughter’s best friend was boxing in this event and it was nearby and so my daughter … Read More “Put Up Your Dukes” »
Hebrews 1:1-4 Introduction Despite being raised in the church, I became an atheist during my teen years. It was during my time in university that I returned to faith. But faith in what? I would love to say that I awoke one day to the emptiness of my atheism and embraced Jesus Christ as my … Read More “God the Son” »
Before you think that I am digging up old dirt on a person who has been dead for years, I want you to know that in many ways this post in not about Ravi Zacharias. I remember what it was like after apologist Ravi Zacharias died. Accusations of sexual harassment and other abuse were beginning … Read More “How I Came to Believe the Accusations Against Ravi Zacharias” »
The Walking Dead, the original series, was an important part of the zombie craze that we are still in the midst of. We have already had a couple of spinoff series that have come and gone. While The Walking Dead series is over, not all of the characters died by the final episode. There are … Read More “TWD Dead City: Season One – Review” »
Yesterday was Mother’s Day. On such a day, I was drawn to reflections on Amanda. We have a complex family with plenty of needs and she does such a great job as a mother. None of our children are the same and Amanda does not attempt a cookie cutter approach to parenting. She recognizes the … Read More “Amanda is an Amazing Mother” »
Matthew 7:9-11 Introduction I have seen a real shift in attitudes toward days such as Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. For much of my time involved in churches, these days were lifted up as highpoints for the year. The reason for this is that we put mothers and fathers on a pedestal and we offer … Read More “God the Father” »
Having recently watched the previous Star War series, Skeleton Crew, watching the second season of Andor was a bit of a whiplash in terms of tone and maturity levels. While Skeleton Crew was definitely aimed at young audiences, Andor is for maturer audiences, dealing with some very dark themes. This season picks up where the … Read More “Andor: Season Two – Review” »
On May 7, 1945, just hours before the official end of World War II in Europe, Private First Class Charley Havlat became the last American soldier killed in combat on the continent. His death occurred during a reconnaissance mission near Volary, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic), when his patrol was ambushed by German forces unaware of … Read More “The Final Sacrifice: The Story of Charley Havlat, the Last American Killed in WWII Europe” »
In this episode of Echoes of the Past, we explore the United States between September 1939 and December 1941 — the tense years leading up to Pearl Harbor. While Americans focused on recovering from the Great Depression, debates raged between isolationists and interventionists over whether to enter the growing global conflict. We examine the nation’s cultural … Read More “SWWP 45 – Before the Storm: America on the Eve of War” »
Amanda and I have not had much chance to get away for some time. I was pleased when Amanda purchased tickets for Classic Troubadours Live. This is a project that was started by Jacob Moon. We have known Jacob for some time and we have seen play multiple times, including my 50th birthday party. This … Read More “Classic Troubadours Live” »
Galatians 5:22-23, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Introduction If you were to ask the average person on the street to name some characteristics of what a faithful Christian would look like, I suspect that the word “self-control” is not one that would come up. At the same time, if you were to describe what self-control looks like … Read More “Developing Self-Control” »
From Biplanes to Victory: The Development of the RAF Through WWII The Royal Air Force (RAF) stands today as one of the most formidable air forces in the world, but its origins are rooted in the desperate and chaotic days of the First World War. From a fledgling collection of aircraft to a key instrument … Read More “From Biplanes to Victory: The Development of the RAF Through WWII” »
As I spend time on social media, I come across quite a few Christians who are rejoicing at reports of immigrants being rounded up, being expelled from the country, and being put in a prison (not necessarily in their home country). Not only do these Christians approve of these actions, they assert that is “the” … Read More “How Should Christians Think About Immigrants?” »
From shambling corpses to fast-moving infected hordes, zombies have captivated audiences for nearly a century. The zombie genre has evolved dramatically, reflecting social anxieties and pop culture trends while continually reanimating itself with fresh perspectives. Here’s a look at how zombie cinema and television have developed, from early origins to the phenomenon it is today. … Read More “The Evolution of the Undead: A Look at Zombie Movies and TV Series” »
For the past thirteen years, I have been a reserve chaplain in the Canadian Armed Forces. When we moved to Nova Scotia, it was a non-negotiable for me to continue this ministry. For a variety of reasons, I chose to support two different units. This past week, I got to spend three consecutive days, one … Read More “Time With My Units” »
Richard Carrier is one of the most well known Jesus Mythicists, that is a person who argues that Jesus was never a historical figure. I regularly get questions asking me to respond to some article that he wrote. Most recently, I was asked to respond to his journal article, “Origen, Eusebius, and theAccidental Interpolation in … Read More “The Difficulty in Responding to Richard Carrier” »
I want to begin by saying that I have had a positive experience as a pastor. Many of my friends have had at least one negative church to deal with but I have been blessed with great congregations. I would also like to say that I do not regret becoming a pastor. It is a … Read More “5 Things That Are Hard About Being a Pastor” »
IntroductionWorld War II claimed the lives of millions, including high-ranking military leaders. Allied generals, though often seen as strategists behind the front lines, were not immune to the dangers of war. This post honors several of these leaders who paid the ultimate price while serving their countries during one of history’s deadliest conflicts. 🇺🇸 United States … Read More “Fallen Leaders: Allied Generals Killed in World War II” »
In the years leading up to the Second World War, one of the most devastating decisions made by any national leader was Joseph Stalin’s purge of the Soviet military. Known as the “Great Purge” or the “Great Terror,” this campaign of political repression not only reshaped the Soviet Union’s political and military elite but also … Read More “The Bloody Culling: Stalin’s Purges of the Soviet Military” »
One of my favourite times of the year is Easter. I am a Christian and the message of the death and resurrection of Jesus is very important to me. Of course as a pastor, Holy Week is a hectic week, but it is also a good time. On Good Friday, we welcomed Wittenburg Baptist Church … Read More “Easter Weekend” »
1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Introduction There are two kinds of news that are worth sharing, there is the bad news and the good news. Think about the various new outlets, whether television, internet, or newspaper. How do they decide what news to share? A big part of it is relevance, but if you look at the … Read More “Standing on the Resurrection” »
Millions of Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. Is this a sign of a widespread delusion or is such a belief rational? No doubt, there are skeptics who see belief in the resurrection as irrational. That is fine. I respect their right to believe that. It is true that it is not common for people … Read More “Is It Rational to Believe in the Resurrection of Jesus?” »
I watched the second season of SAS: Rogue Heroes. I am still trying to figure out what I think of this series. It has both good and bad elements to it. First of all, the SAS pretty much demands a television or movie adaptation. Their role in the Second World War was both important and … Read More “SAS: Rogue Heroes – Season Two” »
A quiet but deeply concerning recommendation has emerged from a recent report by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance (FINA) — the suggestion that the federal government review the charitable status of organizations whose purposes are primarily the advancement of religion. While this is not legislation, it raises important questions about the role of religion in … Read More “Should Religious Charities Lose Their Status?” »
We have been living in Nova Scotia for over three years now. Having grown up and spending most of my life in Ontario, I never thought I would live in Nova Scotia. I still often get asked: “Are you glad that you moved?” In some ways it was a hard decision. We were at a … Read More “Not Regretting Nova Scotia” »
Galatians 5:22-24, 2 Corinthians 10:1-3 Introduction If you were to go back in time and see Jesus during his earthly ministry, what do you think he would be like? Yes, we have descriptions of his words and actions but imagine being able to see him in person. Consider the facial expressions, the body language, the … Read More “Gentle Like Jesus” »
DC Comics, one of the most influential comic book publishers in history, has played a central role in shaping popular culture and the superhero genre. Its journey from a fledgling publisher in the 1930s to a cultural icon is rich with innovation, iconic characters, and reflection of global events like World War II. The Birth … Read More “The Origin and Early Impact of DC Comics” »
The Battle of Vimy Ridge, fought from April 9 to April 12, 1917, was one of the most significant military engagements of World War One—particularly for Canada. Though just one part of the larger Battle of Arras, Vimy Ridge has come to symbolize national unity and sacrifice for Canadians. But its importance goes beyond symbolism—it was … Read More “The Battle of Vimy Ridge: Canada’s Defining Moment in World War One” »
We have five children. Three of those five children have birthdays in April. This is a big month for our family. As they get older, this time of year impacts me more and more. In a few years, we won’t even have some teenagers. This week, my two sons both have birthdays and then later … Read More “The Birthday Month” »
