Jill, along with her family, has been an integral part of the Lydia’s House community since its conception. The Stoxens have been faithful attendees at almost every Sunday dinner and worship service, the only exception being the Feast of St. Lydia in 2014. Jill debated coming to this event, but ultimately the labor leading up to the birth of her third child took precedence. Jill manages to spend time with us around a busy schedule of parenting three children and being very involved at Vineyard Central church, where her husband, Josh, shepherds the community. She coordinates children’s and women’s ministries

Enjoy these photos capturing some of our favorite moments of the Advent and Christmas seasons! [flagallery gid=8]

January e-Newsletter 2015

Today’s gospel reflects a decision. To accept God’s calling and risk rejection from society, or to hear what God asks of us and to say no. “Here I am, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word” Mary made the decision to possibly sacrifice her perceived innocence, her future marriage, and her womb with more certainty than I could ever imagine. She said yes to becoming the mother of Jesus even though it meant that she would be an outcast. Lydia’s House is a prime example of the hospitality of taking in (and thus

There is a profound difference between happiness and joy. Happiness is circumstantial. It’s easy to obtain but also easy to lose. That’s certainly been true in my own life. Lots of things make me happy – thing like going to a good concert or just sitting at a coffee shop and drinking a warm drink. We’re told that everyone is entitled to the pursuit of happiness, but that’s just it, isn’t it? It’s always a pursuit because the coffee gets cold or the concert comes to an end. We have good moments and bad moments, but it’s really hard to