prayers of my heart, a collection of articles and writings by C. Alicia Randolph

  Early Monday morning about 7:00, I joined about 40 other people who left Charleston bound for Staunton, VA.  It was already humid and sticky and I knew that later on the sun would be hot and maybe unbearable for a time, but I was determined to be a part of this group—WV Interfaith and … Continue reading Words Pouring Through Me

I have heard The words “Welcome home!” Over and over again This week.   I smile And say thank you And know that I am Loved And cherished That I have been missed And that now that I am back At least for everyone else Life can return to normal     But honestly The … Continue reading Among the Lilies

This morning—Monday morning–early, I climbed up the front steps and walked across the porch of the Upshur Parish House.  I wasn’t certain how I felt or what to expect on this first morning back as Director of Upshur Parish House and Crosslines.  Earlier this spring, I left Buckhannon for a three-month renewal leave.  After 29 … Continue reading Reflections on Returning

This poem, written at the end of a deep, emotional, life-giving renewal leave–April 5–July 5, 2018, is an expression of three months of reflection on God’s call in my life. Take Thou Authority This morning This day Under a canopy of Green summer leaves Gently dancing in an unseen breeze Under a canopy of blue Chagall … Continue reading Take Thou Authority

  At the moment, I am sitting in history—my history, or at least part of it.  I am in Alzey, Germany, which is located in the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate. For many Americans who have German ancestors that arrived before the Revolution, it is likely that they came from this region or the surrounding states.  … Continue reading An Unseen Rope and Unheard Voices

For a brief time, this past Saturday afternoon, I realized that I was feeling pure joy.  A beautiful early spring afternoon had beckoned me to my favorite place—outside—and I was enjoying bright sunshine and vivid colors at Black Water Falls.  I had been hiking the paths and attempting the still icy, snow covered steps to … Continue reading A Theological/Emotional Roller Coaster Week