New Church Family will start its 2013 God Gab discussion series with a freewheeling chat about "Gay Saints & Martyrs." The session starts 6:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at its new location, 3520 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach.
Tom Brown will kick off the discussion with a few factoids about Valentine, Augustine, Joan of Arc, Sergius, Sebastian and others of special interest to gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgendered believers. Others are welcome to join in -- research a favorite saint or Bible character and tell about him or her. Participants may bring a snack.
For those who wish to mark the beginning of Lenten season, we will have a brief prayer time at 6 p.m. in the parking lot. It will include a burning of the palms and distribution of the ashes in observance of Ash Wednesday.
The events are open to people of any faith, as well as to skeptics and questioners. Free admission.
New Church Family is a diverse Christian congregation offering special outreach to gay and transgender people. The church is affiliated with International Christian Community Churches.
For more information, call (386) 527-5952.
The state of marriage discussion at Lifetree Café
The state of marriage in America will be explored at 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 10, at 142 Fairview Ave., Daytona Beach.
The program, titled "Is Marriage Obsolete? Why More People are Saying, 'I Don't'" will examine the declining marriage rate and the underlying causes of the trend.
"With divorces on the rise and people getting married later or not marrying at all, the institution of marriage is coming under fire," said Lifetree Café representative Craig Cable. "Some wonder if marriage is an outdated concept and is still needed."
The program encourages those who attend to share their views of marriage.
Admission to the 60-minute event is free. Snacks and beverages are available.
Lifetree Café is a place where people gather for conversation about life and faith in a casual coffeehouse-type setting.
For more information, call (970) 292-4697 or e-mail ccable@group.com.