MWR : Articles : Celeste Kennel-Shank

Last updated May 02.

Send letters to the editor, or suggestions for our stories or Web site, to MWR‘s editors.

Articles : Celeste Kennel-Shank

Engaging our earnings for God’s good

Income tax forms can be aggravating, but also enlightening, as completing them provides an opportunity to take stock of how we use the resources we have.

After addressing the basic needs of food, shelter, utilities and health care, and financial obligations such as student loans, some of us have income to spare. Is it better to save it for harder times that may be to come? To give it away to those whose income does not allow a decent standard of living?

HIV still a threat

Two drops of blood and 15 minutes was all it took to get tested for HIV.

Knowing when you’ve done enough

As 2012 came to a close, several household-improvement projects and one leadership role in my life wound down. It gave me occasion to reflect on where I have committed my time and energy in the coming year.

First, a time to wait

Debates about saying “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays” — in corners where they pop up — tend to miss a reason for holding back from any celebratory proclamation, at least for a time: It is Advent, the first season of the church year. This year it began Dec. 2, and it ends the night before Christmas.

‘Medium of miracles’ helps church plants grow

CHICAGO — Five years ago Juan and Cirila Lugo had a vision of planting a church.
Ready for vocation of parenthood?

Looking at a shelf in a used bookstore, a book of crochet patterns caught my eye. Having made hats and scarves to last, I wanted ideas for gifts. Cute Crochet for Tiny Tots was perfect, because almost every month someone close to me has a baby.
Neighbors with room to grow

CICERO, Ill. — Two of the largest congregations in Mennonite Church USA are growing in ministry and meetingplaces.

Finding digital balance

During a reunion this summer, members of my father’s side of the family sorted through dozens of boxes and sleeves of slides taken by my grandfather. While we didn’t want most of them — and in some slides didn’t know any of the people pictured — it was hard to throw away these tangible reminders of members of older generations who are no longer physically with us.

Culture of violence

When a loved one dies, we feel the loss both in the shock after we hear the news and in the months and years as the absence continues.

Call for a Jubilee at Walmart

Walmart marks the 50th anniversary of its first store opening in Arkansas this month. In the midst of its celebrations, advocates for the retail giant’s employees are calling for a Jubilee.