tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-229900442011-09-21T08:45:21.653-04:00Car·i·o·ca (kār'ē-ō'ka) n. A native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.Marcelnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1451100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-49453176002828520102010-12-24T16:49:00.004-05:002010-12-24T16:56:07.474-05:00

Creamy Bean Factory About two months ago, I sat in a booth at the Creamy Bean Factory, a nice little coffee/ice cream and sandwich shop that is the only "cool" hangout spot for students and the local community to grab a quick latte or gelato or sandwich and soak up good music and good vibes. It's also a great place for business people to meet, as I have done numerous times by having life

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-65079672539764673972010-07-17T19:56:00.007-04:002010-07-17T23:39:48.288-04:00

Three weeks ago I was shoveling in the back yard, digging holes to plant a vegetable garden. Needless to say, this has become one expensive garden. See, I have a back condition. Diagnosed in 1996 as a herniated disc of the lower spine--L4/L5 area. I should know better right? No problem, I've had many short episodes of pain after playing sports, and have managed to get back after proper exercises

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-7815829690040742602010-02-19T19:06:00.009-05:002010-02-27T19:20:23.186-05:00

The first step in recovery is this: We admitted we were powerless over *name your addiction*—that our lives had become unmanageable.Tiger Woods' life reached bottom in a paparazzi flash a few months ago after his sex scandal was plastered in the news all over the world. Tiger was powerless to a false belief system that comes natural for men with money and fame who turn their backs on their core

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-72160372372083147222010-02-06T17:41:00.013-05:002010-02-07T07:07:59.007-05:00

I am a member of a vibrant church service with a very talented worship team. Every Saturday morning, I am truly blessed by the music and relevant preaching.I often respond in worship by singing (sometimes at the top of my lungs!), occasionally lifting my hands to God, and at other times closing my eyes and lifting my face in reverence. This is how I respond to what God has done in my life; it is

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-61813190950327857172009-12-05T16:26:00.006-05:002009-12-06T14:13:55.113-05:00

I've know this for a while--that I will someday write a book. For the past three or four years, I've blogged here and on several other forums. But this is the blog that started it all--and gave me the inkling toward publishing aspirations. Yes, it has gone through several phases. I've seen it grow to a community of once-regular fans (sometimes up to 20)--people I never knew or met who were all

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-34687116276327634912009-11-29T14:00:00.004-05:002009-12-05T16:37:42.178-05:00

I was chatting on the phone with the best man in my wedding recently--a great and loyal friend since 1999. I was sharing that certain friends who used to be in my inner circle no longer stay in touch. This isn't going to be a pity-party, no no. I've come to terms with the fact that, even I admit, for certain people, it goes both ways.First of all, it's quite natural for friendships to head south

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-13991646121572016412009-10-30T09:11:00.006-04:002009-11-01T16:10:02.229-05:00

Ten years. That's a long time. In God's time, that's just a quick errand down to the local store for a bag of chips. But it's hard to believe that on this date, October 30, 1999, a Seventh-day Adventist University campus would be completely transformed. La Sierra University in Riverside, CA, and its most gracious and progressive President at that time--Lawrence Geraty, opened up its doors, and

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-89790088551183392572009-08-29T10:46:00.008-04:002009-08-29T18:20:52.684-04:00

I'm trying to think back if I've ever been featured in an actual print newspaper article. Outside of denominational print mags and web news about either an outreach event I've done or a men's ministry I'm leading, and maybe work-related plugs on trade journals, I can't think of any time a reporter came to my house to interview me for a feature. So this was pretty cool. Circulation is probably a

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-67211404457919277312009-08-14T10:26:00.006-04:002009-08-14T10:37:25.587-04:00

One of my latest articles, "Finding Your Mission" has been published by Answers For Me, a practical support website to answer life's questions and issues.Finding Your Missionby Marcel SchwantesImagine being confronted with a "life or death" need to know what your true mission in life is. Many of us would probably be forced to reexamine who we are, and what we're really about. Those who have never

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-61524307981760230842009-06-27T22:48:00.006-04:002009-06-27T23:47:29.575-04:00

This is one of my best friends, Marc. He's originally from Holland, a true Viking and a man of God with a heart bigger than life. Marc is probably the most intelligent man in my inner circle. I've seen Marc go through a lot in the ten years that I've known him. Some good things, and other rather difficult things that has tested his faith. We've had many deep, philosophical and spiritual

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1844669073442961972009-06-19T19:41:00.005-04:002009-06-19T21:23:04.062-04:00

It's funny how certain things from my youth tend to return in cycles. Back in the day when I was 30 pounds lighter, sported a flat top, wore skinny checkered ties and trench coats, I listened to some very cool bands (cool only to those teens who weren't into heavy metal and hard rock). I still occasionally enjoy reminiscing over the music of my generation on my iPOD. One of those bands was the B-

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-20816836197214085702009-06-16T18:49:00.001-04:002009-08-14T10:36:33.946-04:00

One of the fun things about being a life coach is the opportunity to write for different mediums such as magazines, e-zines, newsletters, blogs and print, of course. StoryHarvest recently published one of my articles titled "Taking Off the Mask." It's a depiction of a man who chose to hide behind many masks while sabotaging his first marriage, and separating himself from God. Until he hit rock

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-55776942565346204592009-05-02T00:42:00.000-04:002009-05-02T01:00:39.006-04:00

You can now catch my professional musings over at Marcel Schwantes Life Coaching. Here are some highlights of what you may find there in future postings:Overcoming workaholic obsessive compulsive behavior.Living more authentic, courageous and fulfilled in your personal, professional and relational lives.A coaching conversation for men who desire to walk in TRUE spiritual integrity every

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-51655722869721824312009-04-23T16:14:00.000-04:002009-04-23T16:20:29.793-04:00

After watching this über-hilarious video animation, I'm probably going to move way down on the "coolness" scale with some of my friends who Twitter. Tragically spoofy, yes, but expressed in a way I could never put into words about this type of social networking phenomena, that, well, I fail to see the point. Anyone relate, or am I just cynically unhip? Off to run errands, and you won't know about

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-13021559269431738322009-03-13T15:16:00.002-04:002009-06-21T11:36:28.803-04:00

Time magazine has a humorous article out called "Why Facebook is for Old Fogies." It gives 10 reasons Facebook is for old fogies like me. Here are a few:#1. Facebook is about finding people you've lost track of. And, son, we've lost track of more people than you've ever met. Remember who you went to prom with junior year? See, we don't. We've gone through multiple schools, jobs and marriages.

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-47484236477845056242009-02-16T11:35:00.000-05:002009-02-16T11:43:15.799-05:00

Did you watch your dad growing up? Did your fathers show you how to live the life? Teach you The Way? Did they make the right choices, share with you their failures, so you could learn from their mistakes?

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-17921824602579270962008-12-16T00:29:00.000-05:002008-12-31T17:07:47.109-05:00

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-42473689258476682792008-12-09T03:20:00.000-05:002008-12-09T03:25:51.421-05:00

Today at church, Lennox got random and I've always wanted to be in a music video. So here's my debut on the congas with the "man w/ Guitar." Quite the privilege to be in a video with a future superstar. Man, I'm gonna miss this guy....

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-42558331675820052352008-11-27T15:12:00.000-05:002008-11-28T18:43:09.961-05:00

So the day has come. A day I thought I would never live to see as a man. Today, Thanksgiving day, I get to cook my own turkey. Pray for me.Actually, I think I'll be fine. Note to all cooking-challenged men: Here are the detailed instructions, courtesy of my amazing wife, for how to cook a turkey (minus item #10, a bonus just for yours truly--thanks honey!) So, while she finishes work today at her

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-7270441456126639942008-10-25T17:35:00.000-04:002008-10-25T18:47:28.974-04:00

I'm back from our honeymoon in beautiful Carmel, CA on the central Cali coast. Much more details, pictures, blogs to follow on our wedding and honeymoon over at Marcel & Noelle later.A week or so before my wedding of October 18, I sent out an email to my married male friends I've held in high esteem over the years and asked if they'd be willing to give me some advice about marriage.I got back

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-59176613635499423282008-09-13T01:33:00.000-04:002008-10-06T21:14:55.039-04:00

I am saddened by news that some of my married friends are either separated, looking to divorce or already divorced. The number seems to be growing. Some haven't made it past the 5th year.As I help to plan for my own wedding in October, the topic of marriage is in the brain. I have been blessed with a strong, Holy Spirit-led inner confidence that tells me I'm ready to commit my life to joining my

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-42361830495387984822008-09-03T14:08:00.000-04:002008-09-03T15:00:17.859-04:00

Patience is something that most of us have a hard time with, especially in our instant-gratification culture where almost everything happens at the touch of a button or keystroke.Do you ever get impatient with God? I do. I'm not alone. Even the great Bible characters did, like Abraham. When God didn’t give him a son, he decided to help God out by shacking up with his maidservant Hagar. That had

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-345881406782372632008-06-16T02:35:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:22:40.654-05:00

Steven Block, an Adventist teacher from New Jersey, recently emailed me and we began a good conversation about theology and Adventism. From the exchange, I learned that Steven's church is of the fundamentalist Adventist variety, and he's dodging bullets from the legalists who are casting judgment on Steven for inviting fellowship with the unchurched through competitive sports (watching or playing

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-82298705992496058622008-06-13T18:11:00.000-04:002008-06-13T18:17:04.236-04:00

I'll be the first to admit, and Noelle will agree with me, it's hard to keep up with the blogging! I have this thing, you see, that every time I blog, it has to be "article quality." I guess being an editor of a magazine and website will do that to you. I need to learn to take it down a notch, and just kick it with y'all. After all, there's no deadline here to crank out a newsworthy item for

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-24444763372899736642008-05-16T16:49:00.000-04:002008-05-16T17:00:50.939-04:00

"Dear God" letters from kids. Gotta love their honesty....Which is your favorite?

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-77224755535762744442008-04-28T18:14:00.000-04:002008-04-29T06:15:08.226-04:00

Melody George, a friend and director of the Marbles with Thoreau motion picture (currently in production) sent this by email. It resonated deep within me as it relates to my own personal faith journey.Oswald Chambers asks, "Can A Saint Slander God?""We must not measure our spiritual capacity by education or by intellect [or talent or finances; our capacity in spiritual things is measured by the

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-77503783084597194712008-04-27T20:14:00.000-04:002008-04-27T21:05:35.639-04:00

I've been to one or two bachelor parties in my life where the ambience was clearly not intended for me, nor for the majority of responsible Christian men. Live and learn, repent, forgive and move on.My friend Scott C.'s bachelor party was nothing to worry about. It was clean fun appealing to the heart of the male warrior God designed in all of us, and if you've read Wild at Heart, you know

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-76705224249686911932008-04-19T00:20:00.000-04:002008-04-19T03:00:34.324-04:00

"Man, do I feel like a total idiot!"That's what I was telling Noelle a few weeks ago after I thought I was practicing Christian service and good will toward man.Last year I met a guy by the name of Scott, who asked if I wanted to help get his non-profit outreach ministry off the ground, and maybe one day, when enough funding kicked in, to be on staff full-time. After some discussions and meeting

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-32909162768438394632008-04-07T16:15:00.000-04:002008-04-07T22:08:11.822-04:00

Ohhhh, I cannot WAIT for the summer Olympics in China.I have to hand it to these guys. As much as I don't condone breaking the law when exercising your constitutional rights, this one takes the cake and I applaud them! (the activist in me coming out) Three people protesting China's human rights record and the impending arrival of the Olympic torch in San Francisco climbed up the Golden Gate

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-10752283511376086192008-02-12T22:19:00.000-05:002009-01-23T20:23:05.324-05:00

Peace. How many times have I typed that word in this blog or any other article I've written. It's a rare commodity, really. It gets people's attention. You may hear, "how could you just sit there and take it?" "Doesn't that scare you?" "Are you always this calm?"Frankly, no, to the last question. Visitors of this blog probably know by now that one of the recurring themes of my life is how I came

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-38344721358100355362008-01-29T15:44:00.000-05:002008-01-29T15:49:19.058-05:00

Just in case you missed the edit at the bottom of the last post, here's what I said:I'll end with a sneak preview of another blog I created that will include the musings of a couple in love. She will offer her insights on life, love, careers, the mental health field, God, faith, spiritual growth and whatever else her heart desires. Oh yeah, and I'll let her tell you about how we solved our long

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-61438987589218256632008-01-26T17:06:00.001-05:002011-01-16T22:31:50.113-05:00

2007 was extremely challenging and nothing short of a miracle on many levels. There were lots of ups and downs. This is a long post highlighting the ride 2007 gave me - at times joy, other times roller coaster. I hope everyone is doing great, and that I will still find The Carioca in your RSS feeds or favorites page. For now, I bring you the year in review. Most of it is written in present tense

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-36759985893589868362007-10-11T15:11:00.000-04:002007-10-11T16:09:42.275-04:00

I've been disillusioned by what choice I should make for the next President of my country. As a moderate conservative who abhors partisan ties, the war on Iraq, higher taxes and our continuing policing state of our foreign policy, I've been forced to lean toward democrat (and Barack Obama), and swing my vote to appeal to my progressive left sensibilities. Voting for the "least of two evils" has

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-80955990959873583312007-09-26T03:49:00.000-04:002008-01-27T19:23:33.036-05:00

From the Random YouTube Dept, here I am (left) playfully launching Brian Meert from the globe's northern hemisphere into the globe's southern hemisphere with a swift kick in the posterior. Moment possible courtesy of The Equator! (nice delayed reaction there Brian).(taken in Quito, capital of Ecuador during our mission trip in August, 2007)And as a bonus, you get a few of us goofing off going

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-38400427831172350902007-09-17T21:58:00.000-04:002007-09-18T02:49:36.694-04:00

*spoiler alert!*Last night I went to see the play "Red Books: Our Search for Ellen White." For my non-Adventist audience, bear with me while I review this play, but even you may learn something new about my denomination. I was totally captivated by this play and it made a lasting impact on me.“Red Books” explores the Seventh-day Adventist community’s relationship with its founder, Ellen G. White

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-44797007698883932352007-08-31T16:17:00.000-04:002007-10-11T16:05:08.227-04:00

I profess to occasionally wax creativity when it comes to vision casting and brainstorming, but I don't proclaim to have artistic spiritual gifts, although I had a proverbial blast in college sailing through an undergraduate degree in Broadcasting Communications with an emphasis in television/film production. The post-college "industry" career was very short lived, as God clearly pointed me

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-63219421219963868992007-08-24T16:14:00.000-04:002008-01-03T03:43:15.133-05:00

When we arrived at our worksite, this is what we saw from a distance. Steel frame and the cement foundation.Here's a closeup of the group minutes after arriving at the site. The guy holding the floor plan in the white t-shirt and baseball cap is Brian, a contractor from The Place who volunteered his expertise throughout the project.Our job was to put up the walls and the roof. So lets get to work

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-58210265004137610752007-08-20T14:06:00.001-04:002007-08-24T16:14:13.064-04:00

A week ago today, I returned from a Maranatha mission trip to Ecuador, where I joined 38 other people, mostly from Simon's church - The Place Adventist Fellowship. The project was to build a church in a poor neighborhood of a city called Chapulo, eight hours outside the capital of Quito. We put up the church in five days, one day ahead of schedule. Here's our worksite:This was not only my first

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-50036658705302684962007-08-13T20:10:00.000-04:002007-08-20T17:04:27.786-04:00

I just returned yesterday from Ecuador from a Maranatha mission trip. This is just a teaser for my next postings, as I'm working on getting my Flickr pictures up for viewing.In the meantime, have you heard about the New 7 Wonders of the World? It was announced last month as voted by some 100 million people online. In no particular order, here they are: Chichén Itzá temple in Mexico Christ

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-35070999031942582972007-07-31T14:11:00.000-04:002007-08-20T17:04:50.153-04:00

Later this evening, I'm jumping on a Copa jet with 39 other rambunctious missionaries from The Place Adventist Fellowship as part of a Maranatha trip to Ecuador to build a church for locals there. The location is Chapulo, about 116km from Guayaquil, where we're landing. Apparently, we won't be roughin' it too badly. We're staying in a hotel - The Hotel Palmar Del Sol, which I've heard is very

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-26368166285535846812007-07-19T02:55:00.000-04:002008-01-26T19:45:55.748-05:00

That would be the Portland skyline above. And this story takes us to another episode in the continuing and quite thrilling saga of my possible career moves. I just came back from Portland where I spent the week hanging out with Noelle and chasing some possibilities.That prospect would involve, so far, in theory, opening up a career & life coaching and organizational behavior practice as another

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-52503739960449525832007-07-15T02:52:00.000-04:002008-01-03T02:57:30.712-05:00

Part of this now proverbial and exhaustive job search has stretched me to begin considering crazy possibilities. And no, I'm not hallucinating....yet. Faith still rules the "command and control center," as I am not willing myself into any forceful decisions that don't make sense. This recent episode has taught me to allow God to "rewire" the perception of my plans so I consider and re-imagine

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-76580446486755326582007-07-11T00:56:00.000-04:002007-07-11T01:22:26.557-04:00

I am not one to be amazed that often. Today was an exception. Not only was I absolutely blown away, I found myself picking up my eyeballs off the floor.First a little background. I was surfing an Adventist blog and ran into this posting, which curiously led me to the website of the subject being praised. I urge you to read this thoughtful and well-crafted article first.Guitar aficionados beware:

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-626699802492464822007-07-08T02:59:00.000-04:002008-01-03T03:00:36.572-05:00

Have you ever been in this place?You're sure that God has his hand all over your work life, you have a promising and fulfilling career and you can see the "big picture." It makes total sense why God put you in that position, that company, etc. Another great stepping stone to something even bigger, you say. You picture yourself a few years down the line, the things you will accomplish, the future

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-70540922762794260472007-06-28T17:07:00.000-04:002007-06-28T17:38:09.366-04:00

Thanks to John P. for the tag by email. I'm doing my due diligence...and tag anyone reading this.Four Things about me you may not have known... Four jobs I have had in my life:1) Voice-Over Child Actor for an Educational Cartoon (Paramount Studios)2) Security Guard at Norton Simon Museum of Arts (nice clip-on tie)3) Child Care Worker at a Residential Treatment Facility for Severely Emotionally

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-25236350396447540582007-06-24T16:18:00.000-04:002008-01-03T02:58:10.035-05:00

For this presidential election, I'm exercising my non-partisan vote for the closest candidate mirroring my own faith values. Senator Barack Obama seems to have the edge.In a speech to a United Church of Christ convention Saturday, Obama, a member of that denomination, didn't hold back. He said that some right-wing evangelical leaders have exploited and politicized religious beliefs in an effort

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-52570016938833181262007-06-15T23:02:00.000-04:002007-06-16T21:16:42.508-04:00

I recently took another one of those personality profile tests, but this one was a little different. The questions weren't so pre-determined based on one set of multiple choice answers. It had graph and scale questions where you slide your mouse around the screen to choose the proper answer. It flowed very nicely. So how did I do? Hover your mouse over the color chart below for a description of

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-6116907608353432362007-06-04T20:06:00.000-04:002007-06-04T20:41:41.926-04:00

Thanks Jason for sending this in via email.In an age of self-serving superstar athletes celebrating their gigantic egos, fame and fortune, Brasilian soccer star Kaka, who plays in Italy and is arguably one of the top three soccer players in the world, rejects all of it in favor of dropping to his knees and giving the glory to a higher king. This happened a few weeks ago. Here's an excerpt:At the

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-2282232857844823752007-04-05T17:53:00.000-04:002007-04-05T20:55:28.318-04:00

Part of my trip to Brazil in December included visiting my birth city, Rio de Janeiro. It was an awesome experience, and a little sentimental at times, reflecting back on a place I spent the majority of the first ten years of my life. In a way, standing next to Christ the Redeemer, overlooking the entire panoramic view of arguably the most beautiful and romantic city in the universe, I felt a

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-25358293987562042702007-03-16T17:45:00.002-04:002009-12-05T17:46:09.281-05:00

Last night I got to sit in on a lecture by Eric Jacobsen, author of Sidewalks in the Kingdom: New Urbanism and the Christian Faith.This was part of the Erasing Hate tour, which is a lecture-discussion series in cities around the US that talks about what divides us, i.e., race, religion, ethnicity, etc. This was a great exercise of exploring the intersections of faith and culture to help answer

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-91736306251270258032007-03-04T01:37:00.000-05:002007-03-04T04:26:41.552-05:00

This is part 2 of my trip to Argentina in December. If you've missed Part 1, just click on the label "travel" at the bottom.San Telmo is a popular district in the heart of Buenos Aires which resided some of the richest families in the city back in the 19th century. This now trendy and yet very lively tourist trap set on very narrow cobblestone streets offers one of the best cultural centers of

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-79348334678158010182007-03-01T02:14:00.000-05:002007-06-01T17:55:41.899-04:00

Pastor Ryan Bell and I hung out one afternoon last week, and took in the "barrio" of Highland Park on a workday. I'll let him tell the reason why we got together via his blog. In the meantime, enjoy the urban art we found on a building wall nearby the place we visited. Check out the gospel theme. Nice shots, Ryan!

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-85406221334029376462007-02-27T17:29:00.000-05:002007-03-10T21:59:23.881-05:00

This is a movie about evangelical abolitionist and politician William Wilberforce's call to end slavery in Britain around 1800. Although he couldn't convince the House of Commons to introduce legislation to end the slave trade, he did manage to pass a bill after trying for nearly two decades that would make it illegal for British ships to transport slaves. That was the moral victory that would

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-7478208433275329592007-02-20T01:22:00.000-05:002007-02-20T04:42:43.596-05:00

A few weeks ago my congregation viewed a dynamic speaker preach over a DVD via our large screen. Remember him?Well, by the grace of God, our pastor was able to get a hold of him, invite him to speak and with a week's notice, he accepted. Yes, Nick Vujicic, the dynamic evangelist/youth preacher from Australia, the one born with no arms and legs, the guy that is booked months in advance, the gospel

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-86097247276832115842007-01-28T16:15:00.000-05:002007-02-20T01:21:59.360-05:00

Back in December, I took a trip to Argentina to see my friends Carina and Hugo get married. This was the first leg of a two-part trip with a much bigger agenda - a huge family reunion in Brasil two days after the wedding.I can't say enough great things about my amazing hosts, Ronny and Silvia. They took care of me (and my friend Patrick), showed us around like gracious tour guides and gladly

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-42742163234806753412007-01-25T18:17:00.000-05:002008-01-03T03:01:11.657-05:00

Everyday I get one day closer to the end of my tenure as Project Director for Churches Without Walls - a community outreach project made up of a coalition of churches, hospitals and faith-based agencies in the Glendale area. Funding runs out for my position at the end of February, and the future is uncertain. Job transitions can be stressful. Yet without God the Father guiding the process and

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-30693560235589547242007-01-24T00:42:00.000-05:002007-02-20T16:31:32.545-05:00

At last Friday night's worship service, we had a "guest" preacher from Australia. Actually, he was on the big screen via a DVD, but just as effective. Meet Nick Vujicic. No arms. No legs. And a fire for preaching the Gospel. His testimony to the world is unlike any other minister I know. Captivating, funny, energetic, passionate, on fire for God.From his website, Life Without Limbs:"The whole

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-32780592401084391442007-01-17T02:17:00.000-05:002008-01-20T03:25:00.525-05:00

Happy New Year! Last time I checked in was December 1st, yet I do understand my obligation to my adoring and loyal fan base (insert *cough* here!), but seriously, I do want to acknowledge the messages I've received to make sure my mug shot isn't on a milk carton. I appreciate that, the pulse is still beating, and I'm back into the swing of things.I'm also at a crossroads with whether to keep the

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1164014367531596882006-12-01T18:05:00.000-05:002007-03-16T19:42:02.798-04:00

Since we're made in God's image, I imagine He must've gotten at least a chuckle out of this one. I, on the other hand, was rolling!

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1164956732026749442006-12-01T01:52:00.000-05:002007-02-20T01:18:41.191-05:00

I just took the Belief-o-Matic quiz. It's a quiz about various religious faith statements and beliefs. They interpret your answers and give you an overview of the faith/religion/denomination most closely resembling your answers. I probably would have scored a lot higher in the mainline Christian conservative if I took the quiz last year but since my current involvement in the social gospel,

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1159170388569192722006-11-30T17:17:00.000-05:002007-02-20T01:15:51.086-05:00

How many times has God "visibly" saved your life from danger? That you knew, a few seconds later, oh man! God just saved my life! I can tell you that with me, the most vivid recollections always involve driving. At least five times I've been spared of some horrific accident. Here's the top three list, by order of most potentially "I could've been a goner!"1. Road trip with my dad (mid-1990's).I

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1162279144304629792006-11-19T22:07:00.000-05:002009-01-23T20:26:30.448-05:00

Read Part 1.The effects of sanctification made me finally realize my purpose as an employee of my new company - Kingdom Building, Inc. I quickly adapted to my new job description to love neighbor as myself and love God with all my heart, mind and soul. I then took part in strategic vision planning for the executive committee of my new company: to offer grace, extend mercy, be the salt of the

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1162713197432473352006-11-05T02:14:00.000-05:002007-02-20T01:14:43.603-05:00

I first heard Jars of Clay about ten years ago with the release of their most excellent debut self-titled album. This is a hugely popular Christian band with a large following. I have seen them perform at Spirit West Coast in a gigantic stage in front of 10,000+ people. Tonight, I had the priviledge of catching them live again as they are promoting their new album, "Good Monsters."This time, it

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1162513795656399652006-11-02T19:17:00.000-05:002007-02-20T01:14:08.032-05:00

Top Reasons Why Pets Hate Halloween

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1159169865795351992006-10-29T22:20:00.000-05:002007-02-20T01:13:45.639-05:00

Have you ever had a dream that was so real you thought you were actually living it? What about being awake and seeing something that was so unbelievable, you thought you were dreaming?I remember it vividly to this day. I was eight, maybe nine years old. I was on my parents bed, alone, about to take my afternoon nap. Tossing and turning for a few minutes, I rolled over to the right. And there he

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1160709805949200622006-10-16T05:00:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:26:55.218-05:00

Believers are saved because of what Christ has already done. There is nothing we can do to earn that salvation. It is a free gift handed to all of God's children regardless of where you're from, what you've done, who you are or what you look like. The instant we become saved in Christ we immediately become sanctified and begin the process of being conformed to His image. Nifty little system

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155583527112684672006-10-06T23:25:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:27:18.888-05:00

Born Again, The SeriesReview the last episode, Born Again, Part 10.New to this story? Start here.Browse the archives.:::My adult journey up to this point was a case study of a man hiding behind many masks, desensitized to following the counsels of a Higher Order by virtue of his own arrogance and selfishness, not aware that the life choices he made to this point were misguided with no heavenly

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1158861879742272462006-09-24T16:15:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:23:30.124-05:00

Freddy and the Lord stood by to observe a baseball game. The Lord's team was playing Satan's team. The Lord's team was at bat, the score was Satan's team 3, the Lord's team 0. It was the bottom of the 9th inning with two outs. The atmosphere was thick with tension.They continued to watch as a batter stepped up to the plate named 'Love.'Love led the league in hitting. He swung at the first pitch

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1158886531505230412006-09-23T04:42:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:28:01.104-05:00

Born Again, the SeriesReview Part 9New to the series? Start here or browse the archives.:::One weekend, I needed to get away from Sandra*, process my thoughts, and think about what to do next. With her knowledge, I packed a bag of personal belongings and went to spend the weekend at the house of a mutual friend, Kory.* He was really Sandra's friend, but the only male friend close enough to lend

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1158970692735294952006-09-22T16:43:00.000-04:002007-02-20T01:00:07.879-05:00

I don't make it a habit to be critical of the church, as I believe each has a message that will lift up God to people in need and meet them where they're at. Rick Warren's megachurch - Saddleback Church here in the O.C., is certainly doing its part to build the kingdom. God has raised a good spokesperson in Warren and through his books, ministries and worldwide appearances, he's been bringing

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1158374946193463092006-09-20T03:13:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:28:27.075-05:00

Born Again, the SeriesReview Part 8New to the series? Start here or browse the archives.:::Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 2 Cor 5:17 An Unknown PastMy new creation was around the corner. I was getting closer. But first, I had to pass completely through the eye of the storm. It wasn't time.We finally "escaped" from our honeymoon, came

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1158129853822718512006-09-16T02:32:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:57:38.429-05:00

Click on the picture. Both men and women will get a kick out of this....

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1157615600906857562006-09-07T01:51:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:28:48.851-05:00

Born Again, The SeriesForgot what happened last time? Review Born Again 7New to the story and wanna get caught up? Start here.Missed a chapter? Browse the archives.:::A Honeymoon Not Meant To Be Sandra* finally got her wires and brackets taken off just in time for our honeymoon. She looked fantastic after having dropped 15 pounds from a liquid diet. I couldn't wait to show her off in a bikini at

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1156920096380389322006-08-30T01:19:00.001-04:002009-12-05T17:44:28.525-05:00

It's finally here. The much-anticipated publishing debut of our Blogger-Brother-in-Christ Donny Prater has just been released. It is called A Warrior Culture - Surrounding Yourself with Dangerous Men of God.I've already made my purchase and can't wait to get it in my hands. Hopefully, when Donny is obscenely famous and hitting the speaking circuit, he'll remember little ol' blogger Carioca at one

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1156500811836759742006-08-25T03:32:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:51:36.370-05:00

Political satire. If the picture is too small to read, click here.Credit: The Spectrum Blog:::Work humor.::::::One long neck.

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1156381909783646562006-08-24T03:45:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:29:10.579-05:00

Born Again, The SeriesWanna catch up with the story? Read the archives!::: The Stronghold of The Forum The humanistic transformation in my psyche was taking place. I continued conning myself out of my very existence. I was unable to have an evaluative thought. I was slowly unable to judge experience, feeling that a bad situation was taken care of, without ever having had to directly deal with it.

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1156216587660510462006-08-22T02:25:00.000-04:002007-06-01T18:14:54.918-04:00

Let me declare off the bat that I am learning how to surf. A few weeks ago, I bought my first long board - a sweet 9'2 Becker tri-fin. I have full intentions of using it so that, hopefully a year and many spectacular wipeouts from now, I can blog about ripping 8 foot curls, showing you all my new arsenal of cut-backs, floaters and noseriding techniques*insert loud record scratch here!*Ok, where

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155889795680708062006-08-18T02:34:00.000-04:002008-01-03T03:16:57.768-05:00

A few months ago, I introduced you to my friend and Christian recording artist, Lennox. Last night I had the priviledge of sitting in on one of the studio recordings sessions for Lennox's first full length album. That was pure and unadulterated fun! Let me tell you, musicians are a unique breed. For the most part, I was an observer, trying to sit quiet during the actual live takes and staying out

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155630617445335842006-08-15T03:23:00.000-04:002009-01-23T20:23:52.196-05:00

I was surfing a website called Heavenly Sanctuary and stumbled into this picture. Assuming Jesus is washing feet left-to-right, note who the next guy is.From this picture, an amusing and heated exchange took place on the message board of that website. The thread was triggered by a poll asking for your opinion with "The thought of God washing the feet of my enemies..." and there were five options

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155416616095319692006-08-12T14:56:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:44:48.275-05:00

Born Again, The SeriesRead Part 1Read Part 2Read Part 3Read Part 4Read Part 5:::The New Religion - Landmark ForumSandra* also had a psychological edge because I was at a low point in the relationship - a three month period of unemployment and a search for career options. I had lost direction, quit a couple dead-end sales jobs that I "faked" my way through, and began to slip into depression. With

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155193478459901402006-08-11T05:02:00.000-04:002007-06-04T18:21:41.744-04:00

Born Again, The SeriesRead Part 1Read Part 2Read Part 3Read Part 4Browse the archives.:::rageaholic. Definition: a person who gets excited by expressing rage; person prone to extreme anger with little or no provocation.:::"Houston, We Have a Problem"The first red flag in a series of ignored, flapping-in-the-wind red flags happened a few days after our engagement. It was a quiet Sunday afternoon

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155280350518377912006-08-11T01:48:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:43:54.053-05:00

Billy Graham is now 87 years old. Newsweek caught up with him recently and I was so impressed with reading about his six decades of global evangelizing, I had to share it here. Read the full article, if you prefer. If you want the cliff notes, here are some highlights that really stuck with me.Regarding the core message of Christianity versus political Christianity:"Graham believes both the right

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155015885674112362006-08-09T03:15:00.000-04:002007-06-04T18:21:20.740-04:00

Born Again, The SeriesRead Part 1Read Part 2Read Part 3Browse the archives:::Conventional wisdom now tells me that couples should invest a considerable amount of time and energy while dating that will ultimately answer the question, "Is he/she the right person for me?" Perhaps you dated your wife one, two, maybe three years before popping the question. I applaud you. Sandra* and I dated six

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1155074519179930092006-08-08T17:02:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:41:39.444-05:00

If you haven't received news in your inbox about the latest young woman in Iran convicted of adultery and sentenced to death by public stoning, I urge you to be informed, and read about it here, here and here.And here's a related case study on the topic of public stoning in Iran.If you are interested in taking action against this Islamic ritual, here's the official website to petition for saving

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1154760582458491942006-08-05T02:14:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:40:50.308-05:00

Upload videos at Bolt.Crazy Cats Compilation or hereThe Best DUI Stop Ever!Upload videos at Bolt.

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1154503514177392712006-08-02T03:23:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:40:24.444-05:00

Before I jump into my own conclusion and call this the "new and improved Carioca look," I'm taking a poll! Is this really better, or should I bring back the old Carioca?Your vote counts. Be honest.Bring it!

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1153365929750389112006-07-26T03:22:00.000-04:002008-01-03T03:08:29.587-05:00

Living in Southern California has its perks. Like being cast in a movie. Scroll down for the credits until you hit yours truly. Then come back here so I can tell you an amazing story that happened on the production set of this flick.Welcome back.So you noticed C. Thomas Howell wasn't exactly Tom Cruise. And everyone else on that credit roll reads like a "who's who." As in, "who the heck is he??"

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1153697646369704322006-07-23T19:26:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:37:10.215-05:00

I ran into this article by email (thank you, "Koolkat"). Singles and divorcees alike will probably relate. Here's an excerpt:"...there is nothing I dread more than "the update." You know what I'm talking about, don't you? Where you run into a person you haven't seen in a few years, and in 20 words or less you have to report your life. Getting the update is much easier: Ms. X got married last fall

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1153209632920904012006-07-19T21:05:00.000-04:002007-08-19T13:31:40.380-04:00

Born Again, The SeriesRead Part 1Read Part 2Browse the archives.::After meeting Sandra* at the company party, we began to date long distance, keeping in touch by phone and making the two-hour commute to see each other on the weekends. This ritual only lasted a couple months. Succumbing to the temptation of my impulsive behavior, I chose to completely uproot myself from my secure environment to

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1153203213643065262006-07-18T01:08:00.000-04:002008-01-25T03:29:19.003-05:00

Epiphany - A sudden manifestation of the essence or meaning of something. A comprehension or perception of reality by means of a sudden intuitive realization: “I experienced an epiphany, a spiritual flash that would change the way I viewed myself”.What happens when two single guys with a wealth of dating experience realize it may be time to hang it up?My friend John P. and I chatted on the phone

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1152381420005939972006-07-12T22:17:00.000-04:002007-02-20T00:30:42.347-05:00

Born Again, The SeriesRead Part 1::I remember my twenties. It was a time when the motto "image is everything" dictated my actions. I had a well inflated opinion of myself, a feeling that came from an identity filled with false perceptions of being superior, one that rode on slick self-indulgence, stylish GQ looks and a 6'3" height, convertible sports cars, popularity and a deceptive charm used to

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1152599168687614922006-07-11T01:31:00.000-04:002008-06-16T04:02:31.948-04:00

If you don't know by now, it's all over. The World Cup, that is. The Superbowl of the Globe multiplied by 100 ended with the Italians beating their border neighbor France on penalty shots after a 1-1 tie into the second overtime. But the highlight of this game had to be one of the biggest lose-your-cool moments in sports history - the proverbial headbutt by France superstar Zidane. The team

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1151363130837637982006-07-07T04:02:00.000-04:002007-06-04T18:20:05.156-04:00

Born Again, The SeriesTo find other episodes of this biographical testimony, browse the series archive.:::Introspection has taught me a great lesson as I’ve trekked along the road to self-actualization in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs pyramid.This pyramid is highly regarded, and I'm able to identify to a certain degree having gone through the stages in my own life. However, for the sake of the next

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1152161187716023712006-07-05T22:55:00.000-04:002007-01-31T03:44:44.279-05:00

I just came back from Seattle today, where I spent the extended holiday weekend with family and friends. To no one's surprise, people in Seattle like their coffee. I mean, REALLY like it. In addition to over 200 Starbucks coffee shops in town (this is a fact), there are all these Coffee huts/shacks no bigger than burger stands attached to just about every major street corner. One hut I saw just

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1151808554429837462006-07-01T22:29:00.000-04:002007-01-31T03:40:14.021-05:00

I feel a lot like the dude on the left today, assuming that's a scream of agony (from defeat). First, it was my beloved U.S. National team taking the fall early on in the tournament. Then I reverted to rooting for my birth country, and naturally, rode on the confidence of the world's most feared and talented team. The tournament's favorite, the media darlings chosen to repeat as the universe's

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1151608233443199602006-06-29T15:05:00.000-04:002007-01-31T03:38:17.090-05:00

Ok, I caved in and took the Superhero test. This is soooo not me (as some of you that know me in person are going, "This is TOTALLY you!"), but I've always liked The Flash! I also like the fact that I can alternate which Superhero I am on any given day since five of them are separated by a 15% margin. Yes, I have multiple superhero personality disorder. I need my meds....Your results:You are The

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1151307211796226502006-06-26T03:00:00.000-04:002007-01-31T03:37:40.210-05:00

The Christian fundamentalist movement has been calling for censorship of rock/rap album lyrics, sex and violence in movies, magazines, and other media, for about for as long as I've been driving. We're all familiar with the warning labels on CD's or DVD's about explicit content. In a twisted fashion, the tables have been reversed. I've been seeing this picture more frequently now in the secular

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1150592185445783022006-06-17T19:55:00.000-04:002007-06-01T18:12:41.573-04:00

Well, if you haven't heard by now, the latest prophecy by a Christian (a Messianic Pastor) that has been receiving its fair share of chain letter attention (anyone get the forwarded email yet?) is that tomorrow, June 18, the Portland, OR area will be hit by a magnitude 9.2 earthquake and be completely decimated (and under water) According to this pastor's very vivid dreams, the earthquake is

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1150513130836496422006-06-16T22:18:00.000-04:002007-01-31T03:34:52.826-05:00

New ride at Six FlagsNew shark show at Sea WorldNew car feature you must have - the Trunk MonkeyTrunk Monkey (commercial #1)Trunk Monkey (Commercial #2)Trunk Monkey (commercial #3)Bush on the border (pay attention to the activity over his left shoulder, and behind the vehicles.Video:Bush on the Borderby mschwantes

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22990044.post-1150187413181154592006-06-13T04:20:00.000-04:002008-01-03T03:08:53.101-05:00

Prescribed by the Great PhysicianThe next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember...- Noah was a drunk- Abraham was too old- Isaac was a daydreamer- Jacob was a liar- Joseph was abused- Moses had a stuttering problem- Gideon was afraid- Samson was a womanizer- Rahab was a prostitute- Jeremiah and Timothy were too young- David had an affair and was a murderer- Elijah was suicidal-

Marcelnoreply@blogger.com5