[Faith-Talk] Faith-Talk Digest, Vol 215, Issue 1
andrew edgcumbe
rollercoasterman86 at gmail.com
Thu Nov 6 20:36:56 UTC 2025
well thank you will email you off list about canada one.
On Thu, Nov 6, 2025 at 3:33 PM Jeri Lyn Rogge <
Jeri.Rogge at christianrecord.org> wrote:
> Thank you for the response, Andrew.
>
> PhoneFaith is promoted primarily in the United States, but I'll give you
> (and the group) a pro tip: If you visit the PhoneFaith StartMeeting page,
> you'll note that there are additional ways to connect via the computer
> (which is similar to Zoom), and international dialing options. While we
> don't directly market PhoneFaith outside the U.S. because of restrictions
> with our music licensing company, that doesn't stop anyone around the world
> from still finding PhoneFaith and joining a program. I personally join
> PhoneFaith meetings from the computer, and it works great. Here's the link:
> https://www.startmeeting.com/wall/christianrecord
>
> As for your comment about CRS Canada, it is not the same group as CRS in
> the States. If you would like to email me privately about this, I am happy
> to share additional information on how to connect with the ministry in
> Canada.
>
> I hope this information is helpful!
>
> JLR
> Jeri Lyn Rogge
> Director of Editorial and Outreach Ministries
> e: Jeri.Rogge at christianrecord.org
> w: www.christianrecord.org
> a: PO Box 6097, Lincoln, NE 68506
> tel: (402) 488‑0981 |
> fax: (402) 488‑7582
> <https://www.facebook.com/christianrecord>
> <https://www.instagram.com/crsbfriends/?hl=en>
> <https://twitter.com/CRSBfriends>
> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/crsbfriends/>
> Become A Member
> <https://christianrecord.org/member-services/become-a-member.html> |
> Donate Now <https://christianrecord.org/give/donate.html>
> ------------------------------
> *From:* andrew edgcumbe <rollercoasterman86 at gmail.com>
> *Sent:* Thursday, November 6, 2025 11:53 AM
> *To:* Faith-talk, for the discussion of Blindness in faith and religion <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> *Cc:* Jeri Lyn Rogge <Jeri.Rogge at christianrecord.org>
> *Subject:* Re: [Faith-Talk] Faith-Talk Digest, Vol 215, Issue 1
>
> Hi Thanks Jerry for your email.
> I can't do phone chat lines I live in Canada and unfortinately can't do
> that one inless there is another way to access it.
>
> I appreciate your advice about digging into the Lord but I have been
> trying to find these vollunteer opportunities for years I have lived in the
> same area for years now and i have kept on trying and trying and stuff like
> that.
> Some of the churches are not even all that healthy in themselves to begin
> with not say all but some of them in my area that is.
> I would love to be able to find other christian blind canadians to talk to
> if there perhaps was a way to do that. I know that canada has a branch of
> christian record services but i have not gotten any responce from any of
> them yet the one email address I have tried that is.
>
> However over all I don't think it is about waiting thing because nobody
> has been open to me at all and it has gotten harder and harder. If somebody
> would like to talk to me further off list be happy to.
> I do use watts app and do use a phone and stuff like that.
>
> On Thu, Nov 6, 2025 at 9:47 AM Jeri Lyn Rogge via Faith-Talk <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>
> Dear Andrew and PJ,
>
> Thank you for sharing your heart with this group. We were made for
> connection and community; God designed us that way, and when we struggle to
> find friendship, inclusion, belonging, and opportunities to minister in the
> church, it hurts so much. Like Judy, I also encourage you to dig deep in
> God's Word and spend time in prayer. We serve a God who's big enough to
> carry us during times of pain and disconnection. He can bring peace that
> surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7), and He provides the Holy Spirit
> to comfort us (1 Corinthians 1:3-7).
>
> While you study, pray, and wait on the Lord, I encourage you to also
> connect with PhoneFaith, an outreach of Christian Record Services to the
> blind and low-vision community. PhoneFaith calls are available nearly every
> day with a variety of programs to support you. I may be a bit biased, but I
> feel it's one of the friendliest groups you could ever meet, and I know
> they'd love to welcome you! If you'd like to give PhoneFaith a try, the
> number is 209-399-9465.
>
> Additionally, I'll ask my fellow team members at Christian Record Services
> to pray for both of you, for God to lead you to welcoming local church
> communities and for people to be drawn to you to offer the genuine
> connection and engagement opportunities you need.
>
> Blessings to you both!
>
> Jeri Lyn Rogge
> Editorial/Outreach Ministries Director
> Christian Record Services
>
>
> Jeri Lyn Rogge
> Director of Editorial and Outreach Ministries
> e: Jeri.Rogge at christianrecord.org
> w: www.christianrecord.org
> a: PO Box 6097, Lincoln, NE 68506
> tel: (402) 488-0981 |
> fax: (402) 488-7582
> Become A Member | Donate Now
> ________________________________
> From: Faith-Talk <faith-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org> on behalf of
> faith-talk-request at nfbnet.org <faith-talk-request at nfbnet.org>
> Sent: Thursday, November 6, 2025 6:00 AM
> To: faith-talk at nfbnet.org <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Faith-Talk Digest, Vol 215, Issue 1
>
> Send Faith-Talk mailing list submissions to
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org
>
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> When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific
> than "Re: Contents of Faith-Talk digest..."
>
>
> Today's Topics:
>
> 1. serving in church (andrew edgcumbe)
> 2. Re: serving in church (Pj Navarro)
> 3. Re: serving in church (Judy Jones)
> 4. Re: serving in church (Judy Jones)
> 5. Re: serving in church (Pj Navarro)
> 6. Found the Bible app on Tiktok RE: serving in church (Judy Jones)
>
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> Message: 1
> Date: Wed, 5 Nov 2025 22:54:40 -0500
> From: andrew edgcumbe <rollercoasterman86 at gmail.com>
> To: "Faith-talk, for the discussion of faith and religion"
> <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> Message-ID:
> <
> CAGcQ9RYcvmkVUROMyO3JBptQKn4F0+q00kF1nhm4VBn3FBVW0Q at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
>
> Hi everybody
> I hope you all are doing well and that you all are very blessed.
> I know i brought this topic up before but before I either read things wrong
> or I just had some miss understandings.
> However I would try again and just explaine what I have done and stuff
> like that.
> It continues to be a challenge for me.
> and yes I have contacted pastor and actually contacted other pastors about
> vollunteering and my desire to serve.
> But what has been happening is nobody is getting back to me and it is
> proving to be very difficault.
> Yes I have been speciffic about what kind of things Like I mentioned
> reading of scripture and greeting for example but however what is happening
> is i am not getting any responces at all I sent one email just the other
> week then i sent another last week i was even trying to see about
> opportunities at other churches but basically i hit a rock wall because
> nobody has gotten back to me.
> My mom and I have met with somebody even and honestly it just didn't get
> me anywhere.
>
> It kind of has gone hand in hand with lack of vollunteer opportunities in
> my area and the challenge I have been met with when it comes to that.
>
> The other thing I have been finding is quite a challenge is that I really
> been struggling with the fellowship part of things. The only time people
> approach me is to offer help that in itself isn't bad but beyond that it is
> like i just get left on my own and no conversation starts up at all.
> One of the things i find is that and yes somebody is probably going to
> point out it is a two way streak connection has to go both ways.
> I do try to do that though.
> Sometimes what I find or have found is that I just don't do well with bunch
> of voices at once like a crouded situation. I find hearing bunch of voices
> all at once can be very confusing for me. even when somebody has talked to
> me it can really be hard to gaine full concentration if somebody does talk
> to me that is what I find.
>
> I have found lately i have had allot of discouragement towards attending a
> church and when I do go that is it feels like I been pushing myself out
> the door or dragging myself out the door.
> The thing i been finding it feels like or better way to put it i just
> don't sence I belong in church sometimes because of all the frusterations
> that come with attending church or finding those ways to serve like I
> mentioned above and it has been very hard to find the modivation to go.
> I have often found that i been getting depressed allot some days like i
> almost feel like don't want to get out of bed.
> I really only get out of bed to take care of my guide dog that is what it
> feels like to me in a sence.
> Like I have done allot of tasks in school as i was in like couple different
> hands on classes.
> I had a real good EA stands for educational assistant who knew how to adapt
> things for me and for which whom I still talk to to this day.
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 2
> Date: Wed, 5 Nov 2025 22:03:15 -0600
> From: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> To: "Faith-talk, for the discussion of Blindness in faith and
> religion" <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> Message-ID:
> <CAAtCa51J54_qdEuyX37VPwW=
> EE+-cZcbtKDPib+XCDn25KkQiA at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
>
> The church only cares for money. My mom & dog are my only friends too.
>
> On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 9:56 PM andrew edgcumbe via Faith-Talk <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
>
> > Hi everybody
> > I hope you all are doing well and that you all are very blessed.
> > I know i brought this topic up before but before I either read things
> wrong
> > or I just had some miss understandings.
> > However I would try again and just explaine what I have done and stuff
> > like that.
> > It continues to be a challenge for me.
> > and yes I have contacted pastor and actually contacted other pastors
> about
> > vollunteering and my desire to serve.
> > But what has been happening is nobody is getting back to me and it is
> > proving to be very difficault.
> > Yes I have been speciffic about what kind of things Like I mentioned
> > reading of scripture and greeting for example but however what is
> happening
> > is i am not getting any responces at all I sent one email just the other
> > week then i sent another last week i was even trying to see about
> > opportunities at other churches but basically i hit a rock wall because
> > nobody has gotten back to me.
> > My mom and I have met with somebody even and honestly it just didn't get
> > me anywhere.
> >
> > It kind of has gone hand in hand with lack of vollunteer opportunities in
> > my area and the challenge I have been met with when it comes to that.
> >
> > The other thing I have been finding is quite a challenge is that I really
> > been struggling with the fellowship part of things. The only time people
> > approach me is to offer help that in itself isn't bad but beyond that it
> is
> > like i just get left on my own and no conversation starts up at all.
> > One of the things i find is that and yes somebody is probably going to
> > point out it is a two way streak connection has to go both ways.
> > I do try to do that though.
> > Sometimes what I find or have found is that I just don't do well with
> bunch
> > of voices at once like a crouded situation. I find hearing bunch of
> voices
> > all at once can be very confusing for me. even when somebody has talked
> to
> > me it can really be hard to gaine full concentration if somebody does
> talk
> > to me that is what I find.
> >
> > I have found lately i have had allot of discouragement towards attending
> a
> > church and when I do go that is it feels like I been pushing myself out
> > the door or dragging myself out the door.
> > The thing i been finding it feels like or better way to put it i just
> > don't sence I belong in church sometimes because of all the frusterations
> > that come with attending church or finding those ways to serve like I
> > mentioned above and it has been very hard to find the modivation to go.
> > I have often found that i been getting depressed allot some days like i
> > almost feel like don't want to get out of bed.
> > I really only get out of bed to take care of my guide dog that is what it
> > feels like to me in a sence.
> > Like I have done allot of tasks in school as i was in like couple
> different
> > hands on classes.
> > I had a real good EA stands for educational assistant who knew how to
> adapt
> > things for me and for which whom I still talk to to this day.
> > _______________________________________________
> > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > Faith-Talk:
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/psnj16%40gmail.com
> >
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 3
> Date: Wed, 5 Nov 2025 21:55:58 -0800 (PST)
> From: Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com>
> To: faith-talk at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> Message-ID: <252083067.1.1762408555887 at localhost>
> Content-Type: text/plain;charset=utf-8
>
> Hello, Andrew and PJ,
>
> My heart goes out to both you guys, and am very sorry for the church
> experiences you have gone through.
>
> All I can say is that God does have a special place for each of us, a task
> for each of us, and when we're hurting, can give us the very special brand
> of TLC tailored to the individual needs. I say this because the Bible
> documents it, and have experienced it.
>
> God knows you, sees you, and loves you, no doubt. The problem comes when
> people get in the way, not knowing what to do, how to care, or maybe not
> reaching out as they should. There are churches that do not do a good job
> of community care, let alone ministering to one another. However, there are
> churches that are fantastic at it.
>
> I just see a couple of very hurting guys that could use some
> encouragement, and know you are seen by God.
>
> PJ, like you say, churches do run on money, it is the vehicle we have to
> get things done in this fallen world, but the priority should not be the
> money. We had a pastor once that said, "It is fine to have money, as long
> as your money doesn't have you." If the pastor is seeking God, that pastor
> will know best how to lead the congregation and outreach to the community,
> where money is something they have to deal with, yet not the focus of the
> church and its ministry.
>
> I'll bet everyone on this list has a "church burn" story.
>
> The question that popped into my head is, are you guys in regular,
> communication with God, through conversation and prayer? Just something to
> ponder. Reading the Bible consistently, that really does help so much, as
> God also speaks through his word.
>
> When raising kids, the one place I could go to be alone was when taking a
> shower, and that has become my God-space over the years.
>
> Of course, I don't know your whole situations, but I do care and wanted to
> reach out with encouragement, not platitudes.
>
> Here are some resources I love.
> www.crosswalk.com<http://www.crosswalk.com>
> A site with lots of devotionals, articles, and Bible studies and videos.
>
> Rafa Bible Radio, 24/7 Bible stream for listening.
> https://www.radio-uk.co.uk/rafa-bible-radio-english
>
> Rafa Bible Radio also has apps on Apple and on the Android play store.
>
> There is also an app called YouVersion, that offers guided daily
> scripture, prayer, Bible versions, videos, audio, and tons of Bible studies
> you can do either privately or online with friends. It is on its way to
> having a billion members worldwide, has an online community where you can
> pray together and do studies together if you wish. You can invite friends
> to join you there, like a Christian Facebook. I use the app on my phone and
> on my Selvas BS6 tablet.
>
> You can also access it from the PC.
> https://www.bible.com/
>
> God bless you both, and glad you wrote in!
>
>
>
> sent from Judy's Android braille tablet
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Pj Navarro via Faith-Talk <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Date: Wednesday, November 05, 2025 08:04 PM
> To: "Faith-talk, for the discussion of Blindness in faith and religion" <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> CC: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
>
> The church only cares for money. My mom & dog are my only friends too.
> On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 9:56 PM andrew edgcumbe via Faith-Talk <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> > Hi everybody
> > I hope you all are doing well and that you all are very blessed.
> > I know i brought this topic up before but before I either read things
> wrong
> > or I just had some miss understandings.
> > However I would try again and just explaine what I have done and stuff
> > like that.
> > It continues to be a challenge for me.
> > and yes I have contacted pastor and actually contacted other pastors
> about
> > vollunteering and my desire to serve.
> > But what has been happening is nobody is getting back to me and it is
> > proving to be very difficault.
> > Yes I have been speciffic about what kind of things Like I mentioned
> > reading of scripture and greeting for example but however what is
> happening
> > is i am not getting any responces at all I sent one email just the other
> > week then i sent another last week i was even trying to see about
> > opportunities at other churches but basically i hit a rock wall because
> > nobody has gotten back to me.
> > My mom and I have met with somebody even and honestly it just didn't get
> > me anywhere.
> >
> > It kind of has gone hand in hand with lack of vollunteer opportunities in
> > my area and the challenge I have been met with when it comes to that.
> >
> > The other thing I have been finding is quite a challenge is that I really
> > been struggling with the fellowship part of things. The only time people
> > approach me is to offer help that in itself isn't bad but beyond that it
> is
> > like i just get left on my own and no conversation starts up at all.
> > One of the things i find is that and yes somebody is probably going to
> > point out it is a two way streak connection has to go both ways.
> > I do try to do that though.
> > Sometimes what I find or have found is that I just don't do well with
> bunch
> > of voices at once like a crouded situation. I find hearing bunch of
> voices
> > all at once can be very confusing for me. even when somebody has talked
> to
> > me it can really be hard to gaine full concentration if somebody does
> talk
> > to me that is what I find.
> >
> > I have found lately i have had allot of discouragement towards attending
> a
> > church and when I do go that is it feels like I been pushing myself out
> > the door or dragging myself out the door.
> > The thing i been finding it feels like or better way to put it i just
> > don't sence I belong in church sometimes because of all the frusterations
> > that come with attending church or finding those ways to serve like I
> > mentioned above and it has been very hard to find the modivation to go.
> > I have often found that i been getting depressed allot some days like i
> > almost feel like don't want to get out of bed.
> > I really only get out of bed to take care of my guide dog that is what it
> > feels like to me in a sence.
> > Like I have done allot of tasks in school as i was in like couple
> different
> > hands on classes.
> > I had a real good EA stands for educational assistant who knew how to
> adapt
> > things for me and for which whom I still talk to to this day.
> > _______________________________________________
> > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > Faith-Talk:
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/psnj16%40gmail.com
> >
> _______________________________________________
> Faith-Talk mailing list
> Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Faith-Talk:
>
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/sonshines59%40gmail.com
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 4
> Date: Wed, 5 Nov 2025 22:00:53 -0800 (PST)
> From: Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com>
> To: faith-talk at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> Message-ID: <241745060.0.1762408850935 at localhost>
> Content-Type: text/plain;charset=utf-8
>
> Hello Again,
>
> Great to hear you both of guide dogs. I have had five, and loved them all.
> My husband, Chris, has had six.
>
>
>
> sent from Judy's Android braille tablet
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Pj Navarro via Faith-Talk <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> Date: Wednesday, November 05, 2025 08:04 PM
> To: "Faith-talk, for the discussion of Blindness in faith and religion" <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> CC: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
>
> The church only cares for money. My mom & dog are my only friends too.
> On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 9:56 PM andrew edgcumbe via Faith-Talk <
> faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> > Hi everybody
> > I hope you all are doing well and that you all are very blessed.
> > I know i brought this topic up before but before I either read things
> wrong
> > or I just had some miss understandings.
> > However I would try again and just explaine what I have done and stuff
> > like that.
> > It continues to be a challenge for me.
> > and yes I have contacted pastor and actually contacted other pastors
> about
> > vollunteering and my desire to serve.
> > But what has been happening is nobody is getting back to me and it is
> > proving to be very difficault.
> > Yes I have been speciffic about what kind of things Like I mentioned
> > reading of scripture and greeting for example but however what is
> happening
> > is i am not getting any responces at all I sent one email just the other
> > week then i sent another last week i was even trying to see about
> > opportunities at other churches but basically i hit a rock wall because
> > nobody has gotten back to me.
> > My mom and I have met with somebody even and honestly it just didn't get
> > me anywhere.
> >
> > It kind of has gone hand in hand with lack of vollunteer opportunities in
> > my area and the challenge I have been met with when it comes to that.
> >
> > The other thing I have been finding is quite a challenge is that I really
> > been struggling with the fellowship part of things. The only time people
> > approach me is to offer help that in itself isn't bad but beyond that it
> is
> > like i just get left on my own and no conversation starts up at all.
> > One of the things i find is that and yes somebody is probably going to
> > point out it is a two way streak connection has to go both ways.
> > I do try to do that though.
> > Sometimes what I find or have found is that I just don't do well with
> bunch
> > of voices at once like a crouded situation. I find hearing bunch of
> voices
> > all at once can be very confusing for me. even when somebody has talked
> to
> > me it can really be hard to gaine full concentration if somebody does
> talk
> > to me that is what I find.
> >
> > I have found lately i have had allot of discouragement towards attending
> a
> > church and when I do go that is it feels like I been pushing myself out
> > the door or dragging myself out the door.
> > The thing i been finding it feels like or better way to put it i just
> > don't sence I belong in church sometimes because of all the frusterations
> > that come with attending church or finding those ways to serve like I
> > mentioned above and it has been very hard to find the modivation to go.
> > I have often found that i been getting depressed allot some days like i
> > almost feel like don't want to get out of bed.
> > I really only get out of bed to take care of my guide dog that is what it
> > feels like to me in a sence.
> > Like I have done allot of tasks in school as i was in like couple
> different
> > hands on classes.
> > I had a real good EA stands for educational assistant who knew how to
> adapt
> > things for me and for which whom I still talk to to this day.
> > _______________________________________________
> > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > Faith-Talk:
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/psnj16%40gmail.com
> >
> _______________________________________________
> Faith-Talk mailing list
> Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Faith-Talk:
>
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/sonshines59%40gmail.com
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 5
> Date: Thu, 6 Nov 2025 00:33:28 -0600
> From: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> To: Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com>
> Cc: faith-talk at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> Message-ID:
> <CAAtCa52Zh4cK0Au9=_
> 0p+dzxo1zL0qu2iamiCeoodWDg9FWy5Q at mail.gmail.com>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
>
> Let’s face it, I’m 5 foot 5, almost blind due to RP, & usually the outcast
> since childhood. I’ve always tried talking to God but I’m convinced He has
> his favorites & I’m not one of them. No matter how hard I try, I end up
> alone & jobless. If I work hard whether it be for the job or to win the
> heart of my crush, it all goes unnoticed & unappreciated. At age 32, I’m
> getting sick & tired being a nobody that has nobody. I would try to let the
> Bible app read to me as I followed along with my tunnel vision, but it’s
> pointless when find myself zoning out, I’ve always had trouble focusing
> which is why I dropped out of college a decade ago, so now I just stay at
> home either watching TikTok or TV. Home where I’m safe from heartbreak &
> God’s cruel punishments. I’m a failure who depends on family financially
> now. The only joy I feel is when my dog is excited to see me. And when I’m
> drinking beer. I love beer so much, it helps me not be so socially awkward
> at family gatherings, where I know they badmouth me once I’m gone, like I
> don’t constantly feel shame for the man I’ve turned out to be. If Jesus did
> come back, he’d turn his head away from me, from PJ the Loser.
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 11:55 PM Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > Hello, Andrew and PJ,
> >
> > My heart goes out to both you guys, and am very sorry for the church
> > experiences you have gone through.
> >
> > All I can say is that God does have a special place for each of us, a
> task
> > for each of us, and when we're hurting, can give us the very special
> brand
> > of TLC tailored to the individual needs. I say this because the Bible
> > documents it, and have experienced it.
> >
> > God knows you, sees you, and loves you, no doubt. The problem comes when
> > people get in the way, not knowing what to do, how to care, or maybe not
> > reaching out as they should. There are churches that do not do a good job
> > of community care, let alone ministering to one another. However, there
> are
> > churches that are fantastic at it.
> >
> > I just see a couple of very hurting guys that could use some
> > encouragement, and know you are seen by God.
> >
> > PJ, like you say, churches do run on money, it is the vehicle we have to
> > get things done in this fallen world, but the priority should not be the
> > money. We had a pastor once that said, "It is fine to have money, as long
> > as your money doesn't have you." If the pastor is seeking God, that
> pastor
> > will know best how to lead the congregation and outreach to the
> community,
> > where money is something they have to deal with, yet not the focus of the
> > church and its ministry.
> >
> > I'll bet everyone on this list has a "church burn" story.
> >
> > The question that popped into my head is, are you guys in regular,
> > communication with God, through conversation and prayer? Just something
> to
> > ponder. Reading the Bible consistently, that really does help so much, as
> > God also speaks through his word.
> >
> > When raising kids, the one place I could go to be alone was when taking a
> > shower, and that has become my God-space over the years.
> >
> > Of course, I don't know your whole situations, but I do care and wanted
> to
> > reach out with encouragement, not platitudes.
> >
> > Here are some resources I love.
> > www.crosswalk.com<http://www.crosswalk.com>
> > A site with lots of devotionals, articles, and Bible studies and videos.
> >
> > Rafa Bible Radio, 24/7 Bible stream for listening.
> > https://www.radio-uk.co.uk/rafa-bible-radio-english
> >
> > Rafa Bible Radio also has apps on Apple and on the Android play store.
> >
> > There is also an app called YouVersion, that offers guided daily
> > scripture, prayer, Bible versions, videos, audio, and tons of Bible
> studies
> > you can do either privately or online with friends. It is on its way to
> > having a billion members worldwide, has an online community where you can
> > pray together and do studies together if you wish. You can invite friends
> > to join you there, like a Christian Facebook. I use the app on my phone
> and
> > on my Selvas BS6 tablet.
> >
> > You can also access it from the PC.
> > https://www.bible.com/
> >
> > God bless you both, and glad you wrote in!
> >
> >
> >
> > sent from Judy's Android braille tablet
> >
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: Pj Navarro via Faith-Talk <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> > Date: Wednesday, November 05, 2025 08:04 PM
> > To: "Faith-talk, for the discussion of Blindness in faith and religion" <
> > faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> > CC: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> > Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> >
> > The church only cares for money. My mom & dog are my only friends too.
> > On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 9:56 PM andrew edgcumbe via Faith-Talk <
> > faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> > > Hi everybody
> > > I hope you all are doing well and that you all are very blessed.
> > > I know i brought this topic up before but before I either read things
> > wrong
> > > or I just had some miss understandings.
> > > However I would try again and just explaine what I have done and stuff
> > > like that.
> > > It continues to be a challenge for me.
> > > and yes I have contacted pastor and actually contacted other pastors
> > about
> > > vollunteering and my desire to serve.
> > > But what has been happening is nobody is getting back to me and it is
> > > proving to be very difficault.
> > > Yes I have been speciffic about what kind of things Like I mentioned
> > > reading of scripture and greeting for example but however what is
> > happening
> > > is i am not getting any responces at all I sent one email just the
> other
> > > week then i sent another last week i was even trying to see about
> > > opportunities at other churches but basically i hit a rock wall because
> > > nobody has gotten back to me.
> > > My mom and I have met with somebody even and honestly it just didn't
> get
> > > me anywhere.
> > >
> > > It kind of has gone hand in hand with lack of vollunteer opportunities
> in
> > > my area and the challenge I have been met with when it comes to that.
> > >
> > > The other thing I have been finding is quite a challenge is that I
> really
> > > been struggling with the fellowship part of things. The only time
> people
> > > approach me is to offer help that in itself isn't bad but beyond that
> it
> > is
> > > like i just get left on my own and no conversation starts up at all.
> > > One of the things i find is that and yes somebody is probably going to
> > > point out it is a two way streak connection has to go both ways.
> > > I do try to do that though.
> > > Sometimes what I find or have found is that I just don't do well with
> > bunch
> > > of voices at once like a crouded situation. I find hearing bunch of
> > voices
> > > all at once can be very confusing for me. even when somebody has
> talked
> > to
> > > me it can really be hard to gaine full concentration if somebody does
> > talk
> > > to me that is what I find.
> > >
> > > I have found lately i have had allot of discouragement towards
> attending
> > a
> > > church and when I do go that is it feels like I been pushing myself
> out
> > > the door or dragging myself out the door.
> > > The thing i been finding it feels like or better way to put it i just
> > > don't sence I belong in church sometimes because of all the
> frusterations
> > > that come with attending church or finding those ways to serve like I
> > > mentioned above and it has been very hard to find the modivation to go.
> > > I have often found that i been getting depressed allot some days like i
> > > almost feel like don't want to get out of bed.
> > > I really only get out of bed to take care of my guide dog that is what
> it
> > > feels like to me in a sence.
> > > Like I have done allot of tasks in school as i was in like couple
> > different
> > > hands on classes.
> > > I had a real good EA stands for educational assistant who knew how to
> > adapt
> > > things for me and for which whom I still talk to to this day.
> > > _______________________________________________
> > > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > > Faith-Talk:
> > >
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/psnj16%40gmail.com
> > >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > Faith-Talk:
> >
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/sonshines59%40gmail.com
> >
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Message: 6
> Date: Thu, 6 Nov 2025 00:14:37 -0800 (PST)
> From: Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com>
> To: psnj16 at gmail.com
> Cc: faith-talk at nfbnet.org
> Subject: [Faith-Talk] Found the Bible app on Tiktok RE: serving in
> church
> Message-ID: <106494127.0.1762416875700 at localhost>
> Content-Type: text/plain;charset=utf-8
>
> #+ at youversion
>
>
>
> sent from Judy's Android braille tablet
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> Date: Wednesday, November 05, 2025 10:33 PM
> To: Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com>
> CC: faith-talk at nfbnet.org
> Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
>
> Let's face it, I'm 5 foot 5, almost blind due to RP, & usually the outcast
> since childhood. I've always tried talking to God but I'm convinced He has
> his favorites & I'm not one of them. No matter how hard I try, I end up
> alone & jobless. If I work hard whether it be for the job or to win the
> heart of my crush, it all goes unnoticed & unappreciated. At age 32, I'm
> getting sick & tired being a nobody that has nobody. I would try to let the
> Bible app read to me as I followed along with my tunnel vision, but it's
> pointless when find myself zoning out, I've always had trouble focusing
> which is why I dropped out of college a decade ago, so now I just stay at
> home either watching TikTok or TV. Home where I'm safe from heartbreak &
> God's cruel punishments. I'm a failure who depends on family financially
> now. The only joy I feel is when my dog is excited to see me. And when I'm
> drinking beer. I love beer so much, it helps me not be so socially awkward
> at family gatherings, where I know they badmouth me once I'm gone, like I
> don't constantly feel shame for the man I've turned out to be. If Jesus did
> come back, he'd turn his head away from me, from PJ the Loser.
>
>
> On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 11:55 PM Judy Jones <sonshines59 at gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > Hello, Andrew and PJ,
> >
> > My heart goes out to both you guys, and am very sorry for the church
> > experiences you have gone through.
> >
> > All I can say is that God does have a special place for each of us, a
> task
> > for each of us, and when we're hurting, can give us the very special
> brand
> > of TLC tailored to the individual needs. I say this because the Bible
> > documents it, and have experienced it.
> >
> > God knows you, sees you, and loves you, no doubt. The problem comes when
> > people get in the way, not knowing what to do, how to care, or maybe not
> > reaching out as they should. There are churches that do not do a good job
> > of community care, let alone ministering to one another. However, there
> are
> > churches that are fantastic at it.
> >
> > I just see a couple of very hurting guys that could use some
> > encouragement, and know you are seen by God.
> >
> > PJ, like you say, churches do run on money, it is the vehicle we have to
> > get things done in this fallen world, but the priority should not be the
> > money. We had a pastor once that said, "It is fine to have money, as long
> > as your money doesn't have you." If the pastor is seeking God, that
> pastor
> > will know best how to lead the congregation and outreach to the
> community,
> > where money is something they have to deal with, yet not the focus of the
> > church and its ministry.
> >
> > I'll bet everyone on this list has a "church burn" story.
> >
> > The question that popped into my head is, are you guys in regular,
> > communication with God, through conversation and prayer? Just something
> to
> > ponder. Reading the Bible consistently, that really does help so much, as
> > God also speaks through his word.
> >
> > When raising kids, the one place I could go to be alone was when taking a
> > shower, and that has become my God-space over the years.
> >
> > Of course, I don't know your whole situations, but I do care and wanted
> to
> > reach out with encouragement, not platitudes.
> >
> > Here are some resources I love.
> > www.crosswalk.com<http://www.crosswalk.com>
> > A site with lots of devotionals, articles, and Bible studies and videos.
> >
> > Rafa Bible Radio, 24/7 Bible stream for listening.
> > https://www.radio-uk.co.uk/rafa-bible-radio-english
> >
> > Rafa Bible Radio also has apps on Apple and on the Android play store.
> >
> > There is also an app called YouVersion, that offers guided daily
> > scripture, prayer, Bible versions, videos, audio, and tons of Bible
> studies
> > you can do either privately or online with friends. It is on its way to
> > having a billion members worldwide, has an online community where you can
> > pray together and do studies together if you wish. You can invite friends
> > to join you there, like a Christian Facebook. I use the app on my phone
> and
> > on my Selvas BS6 tablet.
> >
> > You can also access it from the PC.
> > https://www.bible.com/
> >
> > God bless you both, and glad you wrote in!
> >
> >
> >
> > sent from Judy's Android braille tablet
> >
> >
>
> sent from Judy's Android braille tablet
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> > From: Pj Navarro via Faith-Talk <faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> > Date: Wednesday, November 05, 2025 08:04 PM
> > To: "Faith-talk, for the discussion of Blindness in faith and religion" <
> > faith-talk at nfbnet.org>
> > CC: Pj Navarro <psnj16 at gmail.com>
> > Subject: Re: [Faith-Talk] serving in church
> >
> > The church only cares for money. My mom & dog are my only friends too.
> > On Wed, Nov 5, 2025 at 9:56 PM andrew edgcumbe via Faith-Talk <
> > faith-talk at nfbnet.org> wrote:
> > > Hi everybody
> > > I hope you all are doing well and that you all are very blessed.
> > > I know i brought this topic up before but before I either read things
> > wrong
> > > or I just had some miss understandings.
> > > However I would try again and just explaine what I have done and stuff
> > > like that.
> > > It continues to be a challenge for me.
> > > and yes I have contacted pastor and actually contacted other pastors
> > about
> > > vollunteering and my desire to serve.
> > > But what has been happening is nobody is getting back to me and it is
> > > proving to be very difficault.
> > > Yes I have been speciffic about what kind of things Like I mentioned
> > > reading of scripture and greeting for example but however what is
> > happening
> > > is i am not getting any responces at all I sent one email just the
> other
> > > week then i sent another last week i was even trying to see about
> > > opportunities at other churches but basically i hit a rock wall because
> > > nobody has gotten back to me.
> > > My mom and I have met with somebody even and honestly it just didn't
> get
> > > me anywhere.
> > >
> > > It kind of has gone hand in hand with lack of vollunteer opportunities
> in
> > > my area and the challenge I have been met with when it comes to that.
> > >
> > > The other thing I have been finding is quite a challenge is that I
> really
> > > been struggling with the fellowship part of things. The only time
> people
> > > approach me is to offer help that in itself isn't bad but beyond that
> it
> > is
> > > like i just get left on my own and no conversation starts up at all.
> > > One of the things i find is that and yes somebody is probably going to
> > > point out it is a two way streak connection has to go both ways.
> > > I do try to do that though.
> > > Sometimes what I find or have found is that I just don't do well with
> > bunch
> > > of voices at once like a crouded situation. I find hearing bunch of
> > voices
> > > all at once can be very confusing for me. even when somebody has
> talked
> > to
> > > me it can really be hard to gaine full concentration if somebody does
> > talk
> > > to me that is what I find.
> > >
> > > I have found lately i have had allot of discouragement towards
> attending
> > a
> > > church and when I do go that is it feels like I been pushing myself
> out
> > > the door or dragging myself out the door.
> > > The thing i been finding it feels like or better way to put it i just
> > > don't sence I belong in church sometimes because of all the
> frusterations
> > > that come with attending church or finding those ways to serve like I
> > > mentioned above and it has been very hard to find the modivation to go.
> > > I have often found that i been getting depressed allot some days like i
> > > almost feel like don't want to get out of bed.
> > > I really only get out of bed to take care of my guide dog that is what
> it
> > > feels like to me in a sence.
> > > Like I have done allot of tasks in school as i was in like couple
> > different
> > > hands on classes.
> > > I had a real good EA stands for educational assistant who knew how to
> > adapt
> > > things for me and for which whom I still talk to to this day.
> > > _______________________________________________
> > > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > > Faith-Talk:
> > >
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/psnj16%40gmail.com
> > >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Faith-Talk mailing list
> > Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> > http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> > To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> > Faith-Talk:
> >
> >
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/sonshines59%40gmail.com
> >
>
> ------------------------------
>
> Subject: Digest Footer
>
> _______________________________________________
> Faith-Talk mailing list
> Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> End of Faith-Talk Digest, Vol 215, Issue 1
> ******************************************
> _______________________________________________
> Faith-Talk mailing list
> Faith-Talk at nfbnet.org
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/faith-talk_nfbnet.org
> To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for
> Faith-Talk:
>
> http://nfbnet.org/mailman/options/faith-talk_nfbnet.org/rollercoasterman86%40gmail.com
>
>
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