Working with the kids in Guatemala

In 1997 I spent a month in Guatemala working with kids in the town of Chichicastenango. It was an amazing and eye opening experience to see so many kids excited by the tall white guy who like to rough house with them in a way that their own reserved father's wouldn't (a cultural thing, the men are very reserved). These kids were amazing.

The Day I Married my Friend

On June 30th of 2001 I saw a sight that my eyes were not prepared for. My beautiful bride to be was walking down the aisle toward me on the arm of her father. Wow, she looked amazing, and I'm not ashamed to say that I had tears in my eyes. Nicole and I have always been big believers in marriage, and this day we were able to join our two lives into one (the "M" word was brought up after a month of dating, we were engaged within 6 months). I'll never forget that hot and muggy June day as I sat outside the church waiting as Nicole had pictures taken with my groomsmen and I sat there waiting to see my Pearl of Great Price. Love you girl.

Christianity's Big Tent: The Ecumenism of I John

I wrote this 150 page "book" to settle the questions in my mind about Ecumenism that falling in love with Nicole raised. I decided to use the framework of the letter of I John because the Apostle spends a lot of time answering the question, "Who is a Christian, and who isn't?" I had some hopes of finding a publisher, but I really just want it to help anyone who wants to read it. The book also touches on the topics of what is important to the core of Christianity, and answers questions about groups like Mormons and Jehovah's Witnesses. The book is in two parts, the book itself is one, the works cited pages is the other, please download them and enjoy. Any feedback would be much appreciated.

** Note, this book was revised and updated in 2006 and 2014.  Eventually, a revised introduction to include the portion of my life here in Franklin, PA will be written and an overall revision will take place as well.  Thank you. 4/4/14 **

Christianity's Big Tent 

 Christianity's Big Tent: Works Cited

Ordination Picture with my parents

These are my parents, Walt and Kathy Powell. My dad has been with Amway for over forty years and taught me to love sports and persevere. My mom runs a day care out of her house (for her grandkids in particular), and taught me to wear my heart on my sleave. Love you both.

Ordination day picture with In-laws

These are my in-laws; Robert and Danora Brzezinski (yes I know, my wife's name is easier to spell now). Nicole's mom is the religious education director for the entire diocese of Gaylord and her dad is a Pharmacist who loves to tell you about the latest gadget he's purchased. They've both been very helpful to Nicole and I and supportive of our marriage from day one.