Guided by Faith

The expanse of the American West attracted numerous expeditions throughout the 1800’s.  Like the previous four editions, 1954 edition of the Lakeside Classics, Voyage to the Northwest Coast of America , written by Gabriel Franchere, chronicles his experiences and knowledge of two simultaneous expeditions to the mouth of the Columbia River at what is today Astoria, Oregon.  

The 1953 edition of the Lakeside Classics presents the work of General Thomas James, Three Years Among the Indians and Mexicans.   Similar to the 1952 edition, this work chronicles, General James’ expeditions into the American southwest between 1820 and 1822.  

In the aftermath of The Civil War surfaced one of the most famous and maligned U.S. Army Generals involved in the settling of the American West. The 1952 edition of the Lakeside Classics features the memoir, My Life on The Plains, originally written in 1874 by General George Armstrong Custer.

This episode features the work of Lt. Britton Davis, a U.S. Army officer who was directly involved in the  pursuit, capture, and surrender of one of the most widely known, and possibly misunderstood, members of the Apache tribe, Geronimo.  Davis’ story, presented in the 1951 edition of the Lakeside Classics, reflects on the U.S. Army efforts to remove the Apache and Chiricahua from the Arizona Ter...

This initial episode of a special series of Guided by Faith provides a brief summary of one event reflected upon in the 1950 edition of The Lakeside Classics - Absaraka - Home of the Crows. 

August 22, 2026 would have been my Dad's 100th birthday.  This special episode reflects on his life and the great gifts he left for me and our family.

This episode covers the early days of the American Red Cross, its rapid development into a peace time humanitarian organization, including selected events at which Clara and the Red Cross were essential first responders, Clara’s retirement and her return to the Lord in 1912.

The story continues with Clara’s return to the United States, her lengthy recuperation from various maladies, her unwavering efforts to bring America into the International Treaty, and the beginnings of what would become the most prominent humanitarian organization in the world.

This episode covers Clara’s post war testimonies of her experiences in the midst of some of the most notable battles of the Civil War, her surprising health challenges, her initial voyage to Europe and her return to America in 1873.  This period is the beginning of Clara Barton becoming one of the most known and influential persons on both sides of the Atlantic.  

This episode continues with Clara’s battlefield mission, her time in Charleston, SC, the end of the War and one of her post-war efforts.

This episode, entitled A Nation Divided, speaks to how Clara Barton found herself in the midst of the most divisive conflict in American history, both then and now, and how she found and chose her path to becoming an iconic figure during and well beyond that conflict, as well as how God influenced her direction and actions.

This week we will celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.  America remains today, the longest standing democracy known to man.  The individuals that provide the inspiration for the Guided by Faith series most likely did not have an expectation during their lives that this day would or would not be realized, however, based on their actions we are certain that they dedicated their...

Today would have been the 100th birthday of my father-in-law, Anthony "Tony" Varchetto - A Great Man.  This special episode of Guided by Faith recognizes his love of life and his family.  Happy Birthday Tony!

This episode highlights Marshall’s continuing path from the aftermath of WWII, including The Marshall Plan, through his retirement.

This episode presents Marshall's leadership in preparing the U.S. Army for its involvement in WWII, developing the critical plans of military action, and selecting the key field generals to lead the U.S. and Allied forces.

This episode speaks to the critical period between WWI and WWII.  Of emphasis is the continued growth of Marshall as a key planner, strategist and leader within the U.S. military.

Discusses the period from 1902 - 1918, which includes numerous assignments, including the Philippines, and Marshall’s role in World War 1.  Marshall’s connection to Gen. John J. Pershing is introduced.

Presents summary information about the formative years of the life of Gen. George C. Marshall, including his upbringing in Uniontown, PA, and his attendance at Virginia Military Institute.  Offers insights into the likely influences during this time on Gen. Marshall's faith formation.