Faith

This is a reprinted column from Jack Purcell’s “On the Journey” archives. It originally appeared in The Star in 2013.

Q: I have a 15-year-old daughter who’s a “crushaholic.” It seems like every other week she’s fixated on a different boy. Depending on the attention she gets (or not) she’s either over the moon or down in the dumps. Is this normal?

Q: I got married right out of college. Four years later, I’ve got two needy toddlers and an art degree that apparently means nothing. Meanwhile, my still-single sorority sisters have thriving careers in graphic design and constantly post about their work and exotic travels. I love my kids, but I have to confess that I’m jealous and discouraged. How do I let go of those artistic dreams I once had?

Q: My husband had an affair with another woman. It’s over now, I genuinely believe he’s truly sorry, and we’re working toward reconciliation. But as a somewhat embarrassing practical consideration – should he be tested for sexually transmitted infections (STI) and diseases?

Editor’s note: This is a reprinted column from Jack Purcell’s “On the Journey” archives. It originally appeared in The Star in 2013.

For the first time, the local National Day of Prayer took place at Messiah Lutheran Church in Boerne on Thursday, May 5. Several individuals led attendees through prayers, including Bryan English, front left, the director of the Church Ambassador Network, who led the prayer segment on government. Brad Sanders was the announcer; Helen Wenzel, with Angels All Around You Ministry, gave the prayer for the military; Mark Giardinelli was a coordinator; Mandi Turner was the praise singer; Kathlin Jauregui, director of the Hill Country Pregnancy Care Center, gave a prayer for families; Kathy Giardinelli was a coordinator; and Benton Leachman served as a singer and musician. Back row: Tim Ristow gave a prayer for media in America; Mike Lang, retired owner of KCAC, presented the prayer segment on business and the workplace; Artie Dolt was the reader; the Rev. Alex Lahue of Messiah gave the devotional and prayed for churches across the country; Elijah Hawkins was the worship Leader; and Bryan Degner, retired coach and American history teacher, led the prayer on education. Submitted photo

Q: My father wasn’t a good role model, so I feel pretty clueless about the whole parenting thing. Now my wife and I are expecting our first child. I’m eager to be a dad but also intimidated. Can you offer any insights?

Editor’s note: This is a reprinted column from Jack Purcell’s “On the Journey” archives. It originally appeared in The Star in 2013.