Remnant Ministries

Jeff & Rita Sharp are friends and clients.  These photos are part of a series I did for their work, their passion, Remnant Ministries.  You can read more about them from an article in the Register Herald here: Remnant Ministries

It is their mission, in part, to revive the Jewish roots of Christianity through teaching, celebrating the traditional feasts and being a willing vessel to go wherever God leads them to share the roots of the Christian faith.

The Torah they brought to the photo session is the only one I've ever seen.  The Torah, or the Five Books of Moses, is the most important manuscript in the Jewish Tradition.  Jeff & Rita are diligent students of Hebrew and the insights they shared with me were surprising and beautiful.  The manuscript is not only an historical treasure, but the crafting of this scroll and decorative cover bore testimony of skilled artisans.      

                                                           

The most interesting article that Rita brought to the session was the tallit, or prayer shawl.  I was taken back by the  

intricate designs and knot-work.  The garment was heavy and full of purpose.  She explained to me about the tzitzit, or the knotted fringes or tassels on the hem of the shawl.  Rita said it was this, the fringes, that the lady reached for in St. Matthew 9:20 who wished to be healed by Jesus.    

As an Orthodox Christian, it brings a blessing to my heart that other Christians are learning about their roots.  I agree with Rita as she mentioned in the news article linked above:  with all of our modern views of Christ and trying to conform His identity with current culture, will we recognize Christ upon His return?   Do we understand the culture that Christ walked in on this earth?  

I believe we are enriched when we embark upon the ancient paths, to learn the framework that has given us our faith ; it's one of the reasons I converted to Orthodoxy.

"Thus says the Lord, Stand by the ways and see and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; And you will find rest for your souls. Jeremiah 6:16"

Rita & Jeff, May God grant you many years!!