ParishTorch's photostream  

My name is Christopher and I was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada to a Hungarian mother and a Dutch father. I'm the youngest of 7 children: 4 boys and 3 girls. Two of my 3 sisters are identical twins.

Having lived here in Mississauga for the last 43 years, my childhood was full of many of life's experiences and over the years I have met many people along the way, some of who remain my friends today.

I got interested in photography soon after I was employed with a major photo lab in 1988 and was the main portrait photographer and film operator. Soon after this 2-year stint, I took a photography course at Sheridan College in Oakville, then computer courses because I figured that one day computers and photography would go hand in hand and I was right!

In 1999 I laid my SLR down and took a break from photography. In 2001 I started working for the government in the Archives and it is a great life experience! I'm also a Christian.

My Flikr name 'ParishTorch', by the way, is actually an Anagram of my first name 'Christopher' but with one letter changed, so I hope you all enjoy my photostream, just as much as I enjoy yours. :)

~~ When I say..."I am a Christian" I'm not shouting "I am saved." I'm whispering "I was lost!" That is why I chose this way. When I say..."I am a Christian" I don't speak of this with pride. I'm confessing that I stumble and need someone to be my guide. When I say..."I am a Christian" I'm not trying to be strong. I'm professing that I'm weak and pray for strength to carry on. When I say..."I am a Christian" I'm not bragging of success. I'm admitting I have failed and cannot ever pay the debt. When I say..."I am a Christian" I'm not claiming to be perfect, my flaws are all too visible but God believes I'm worth it. When I say..."I am a Christian" I still feel the sting of pain I have my share of heartaches which is why I seek His name. When I say..."I am a Christian" I do not wish to judge. I have no authority. I only know I'm loved.

"Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are stiffened." - Billy Graham