I hope you have had a blessed weekend. So many people have been down with the "bug" going around. Your truly included. Fortunately for me, it looks like I am much better, with just a few sniffles remaining. Several of you have related to me your symptoms and I think we've all had the same thing. Please be sure to wash your hands often and cover your cough!
This past Sunday was an intimate but joyful worship service. Joyful and intimate because we were gathered and celebrated Holy Communion with our Lord. Special thanks to Deacon Robin Cherry for preparing the meal, and to Theresa Gallegos-Brake for helping out too!
This is what church is all about. When we have newer people in our midst, we can draw them closer into the church by inviting them into the ministry of the church. In this way, they find out what this church does, how we function, and to not be afraid to try new things. It's the practical side of discipleship.
Just a few things going on this week :)
Today at noon: High Noon Yoga - free to the community
Tonight at 5:30PM: Session meeting
Tomorrow, Friday and Monday at 9:00AM: Exercise, Eat and Pray
I will be in the office Wednesday and Friday till about 1:00PM
Thursday at 10:00AM I will be meeting Lucus Keppel-Levy, pastor of the yoked churches Ancho and Corona. He will be helping us set up the video-conferencing equipment. We have been designated as the "internet cafe" for the NE Cluster of churches.
Sunday - Bible Study at 9:30AM, Church at 11:00AM. But make plans to return after lunch for the Fancy Tea Party at 2:00PM! For more information, you can go here: https://scontent-lax3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12199_1033529313370400_284163789498266518_n.jpg?oh=1baafa2252021f82542f5c791921da46&oe=5722A49C
This Wednesday we begin the season of Lent. Traditionally, people give something up that they enjoy, like chocolate, beer, or a habit, like oversleeping. Lent is a time for us to recognize, however, our tendency to sin and our dependence on God for grace and for life. If you decide to give something up for Lent, consider letting go of a behavior that you normally substitute for God. For example, if you turn to chocolate when you are afraid, turn to God instead. If you drink to forget your problems, go to God with your problems. You get the picture. Check out this interesting discussion from BustedHalo.com.
Speaking of "Going to God..." Hold these people in your prayers, please:
Amber Varsallona and her family in their grief over Frances Agnew
Theresa Gallegos-Brake and Betty Martinez - at the loss of their brother, Gilbert Martinez
Tom Anderson, pursuing cancer treatment
Angie Garcia, in hospice
Lucille Andrada - preparing for a head scan on February 17th - let us pray that she feels peaceful and that the scan is clear!
Misty - daughter-in-law of the Hudsons - she is continuing to improve in her health
Officer Figueroa's family
Lou Sims and Laurel Sims - both have the same crud that I had, but worse!
Sgt. Paul Bell - recuperating after back surgery - out for up to 12 weeks
Pray also for all our new church members, that they find their niche in our church
May all of you be well and healthy this week. God be with you till we meet again!
Love,
Pastor Amy
February 7 2016 Sermon Know Jesus, Know Hope |