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Publisher's Pride: Books on Bestseller Lists - An Afternoon's Dictation (Greenebaum)

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  Recently,  An Afternoon's Dictation  (Greenebaum), reached #29 on the Amazon bestseller list of books in ecumenism Christian theology, #78 in Christian ecumenism, and #115 in faith and spirituality.. The book has been on bestseller lists many times.  Book Description:  In 1999 Steven Greenebaum felt he'd hit the wall. Fifty years old, he could not make sense of his life or the world around him. For several months he angrily demanded answers from God, if God were there. One afternoon, an inner voice told him to get a pen and paper and write. Steven then took dictation - three pages, not of commandments but guidance for leading a meaningful life.   An Afternoon's Dictation  grapples with, organizes, and deeply explores the revelations Steven received and then studied for over ten years. His sharing is NOT offered as the only possible way to understand it the dictation. It is offered, rather, as a start. The book's sections include deep explorations int...
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How do Jews observe Chol HaMoed?

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  During Chol HaMoed , the middle days of Passover, Jewish life moves into a gentler rhythm — still sacred, but more flexible. Work that’s necessary or joyful (like cooking, travel, or creative projects) is permitted, yet the spirit of liberation remains central. Here’s what typically fills these days: Continued eating of matzah and avoiding chametz (leavened foods). Special prayers in synagogue, including Hallel (songs of praise) and readings from Exodus that recall the journey through the Red Sea. Family outings and community gatherings , often outdoors — a reminder that freedom is meant to be lived, not just remembered. Torah study and reflection , focusing on themes of renewal, gratitude, and moral freedom. In Israel, Chol HaMoed feels like a national holiday — parks, pilgrim sites, and family tables overflow with celebration. In the diaspora, it’s quieter but still luminous: a time to live the Exodus story in daily life. post inspired by Since Sinai  by Shannon...
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How Do Catholics Observe Easter?

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  Easter is the heart of Catholic life — not a holiday but a holy day , not a conclusion but a beginning. Catholics observe Easter with a rhythm that moves from darkness to light, from silence to proclamation, from waiting to rejoicing. 1. The Easter Vigil: The Night Everything Changes For most Catholics, Easter begins on Saturday night with the Easter Vigil , the most solemn and symbol-rich liturgy of the year. It unfolds in four movements: The Service of Light — A fire is kindled in the darkness, and the Paschal candle is lit. This candle represents Christ breaking into the night of death. The Exsultet — A soaring ancient hymn announces that this night is different from all others. The Liturgy of the Word — Scripture traces salvation history from creation to resurrection. Baptism and Confirmation — Adults entering the Church are baptized, confirmed, and receive the Eucharist for the first time. Easter is the Church’s birthing room. The Eucharist — The first Mass of t...
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