Anglican Orthodox Church
Worldwide Communion
Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
51st Birthday of the Anglican Orthodox Church
Veterans Day
238th Birthday of the
United States
Marine Corps
Sunday Report
Today we celebrated the Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity; it is also the Fifty-First Birthday of the Anglican Orthodox Church. While our numbers are small in the United States, we have churches in 26 separate countries around the world acting as a guiding hand, safe handhold and refuge in an ever down spiraling world from a small Worldwide Headquarters in Statesville, North Carolina. The stability of the AOC is due to the vision of James Parker Dees, the founding clergyman of the AOC. His vision continues under the command of Jerry Ogles, the current Presiding Bishop who just came back from a trip to the former Yugoslavia where he established an Anglican Orthodox Church of Macedonia, as well as an Anglican Orthodox Church of Serbia complete with ministers, deacons and congregations. See the article on Founders Day later in this report.
239th Birthday of the
United States Marine Corps
No better friend, no worse enemy
On 10 November 1775, Captain Samuel Nicholas formed two battalions of Continental Marines at Tun’s Tavern in Philadelphia as naval infantry in accordance with a resolution of the Continental Congress. They were to “be able to serve to advantage by sea when required” and “that they be distinguished by the names of the first & second battalions of American Marines.”
No better friend: someone who will kill to protect you; someone who will give their life for you; someone who will be right there in your times of trouble and, thinking of you and your problems, will sacrifice so that you might get through your problem.
No worst enemy: someone who will not hesitate to destroy you even if that means destroying himself in the process; someone who will chase you down to the ends of the earth to extract revenge; someone who will cause you blood and tears and smile when it happens.
With a Marine as your friend, you have a person who will kill to protect you. With a Marine as your enemy, you have a person who will kill you. Pretty simple, huh?
The concept comes from the epitaph of Lucius Cornelius Sulla, famous general and legendary dictator of ancient Rome:
“No friend ever served me, and no enemy ever wronged me, whom I have not repaid in full.”
Happy 239th Birthday, USMC!
Veterans Day – Guest Editorial
Tuesday 11 November 2014, was, is Veterans Day. The Eleventh Hour of the Eleventh Day of the Eleventh Month. Is not the first Monday in anything, it is not an occasion to sleep in or barbeque. It was originally Armistice Day, the day the Great War (World War I) ended. The armistice was signed on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month ending the War to End all Wars which took the lives of about 20 million people. We remembered that day until World War II, a war which took the lives of about 70 million people, not including the 25 million killed by the Soviets internally. In total, almost 100 million people lost their lives during the period of this war.
Our country has chosen this day, Armistice Day, to honor those who have served our country. This is not the same as Memorial Day, the last weekend in May, during which we honor those who have given their lives for our country.
On this day, we honor those who have and do serve our country: men and women who have stepped forward when their country called; some even before the call. We honor those who have put their country before themselves and families.
Sometimes we forget the sacrifices made by the families. It is one thing to be in combat, forward deployed or on TDY at Christmas. It is another to have your son, daughter, husband or wife gone.
We can both tell you from personal experience that it is a lot easier to go to war than to send someone to war.
It is easy to think the country is going to hell, in or out of the proverbial hand basket and it may well be. Yet, so far we have young people who step forward and fill the breech in the line. How long we know not, but still they come forward. While they come we are safe. When they stop, we fall.
Rev LTC Hap and Captain Dru Arnold, USAF Retired
Founders Day
16 November 1963- 2014
James Parker Dees, a Bishop of Vision and Courage– (1915-1990) Few would have suspected a member of the New York Opera Company would become a bishop who would wage war against a corrupt and arrogant branch of the Church of England[1] – the Episcopal Church. But Bishop James Parker Dees was just such a fellow. Bishop Dees was ordained in 1949 following his graduation from Virginia Theological Seminary. After serving charges in Beaufort and Statesville (to include serving as rector of an all-black church in Statesville), Rev Dees became disillusioned with the unbiblical teachings of the Episcopal Church. He strongly objected to the teaching of men such as Bishop Pike who was in obvious disregard of the Thirty Nine Articles of Religion and the Holy Bible itself. Realizing Pike’s actions were egregious enough to warrant his being brought up on charges before the Church Court, he filed charges under the Church Canons. Though the charges were unquestionably factual, the Church took no measures against Pike. Other issues involving infidelity to Holy Writ, a lowered view of the marriage covenant and intensifying liberal tendencies drove Dees to separate from ECUSA in 1963 and form the Anglican Orthodox Church.
Clergy who assured Dees of their support and loyalty deserted him. He was consecrated a bishop by Bishop Wasyl Sawyna of the Holy Ukrainian Autocephalic Orthodox Church of North and South America, assisted by Bishop Orlando Jacques Woodward of Old Catholic succession, on 15 March 1964.
Clergymen from the local Episcopal churches demonstrated, day and night, on the sidewalk in front of his home with placards and loudspeakers. Dees, never wavered in his conviction and determination to preserve the faith of the Reformation. He insisted on strict conformity to the Received Text versions of the Holy Bible, the Thirty Nine Articles of Religion and traditional Book of Common Prayer as the arbiter of all truth and doctrine. Expending much of his personal and family savings to sustain the church, Bishop Dees was successful in maintaining a Remnant of the true Gospel among the purveyors of heresy and apostasy. The church grew, under his wise oversight, to include more than twenty foreign national churches. Dees founded the Orthodox Anglican Church to act as an ecclesiastical umbrella for these foreign churches, but still remaining an organ the Anglican Orthodox Church. He never slumbered nor rested in his zeal to serve God and to build His Church.
Bishop Dees underwent non-life-threatening surgery in December of 1990, but died a few days later as a result of complications of pneumonia. He died on Christmas Day, five days short of his seventy fifth birthday.
Like the Reformers of old, Bishop Dees discovered the modern church had become corrupt and heretical. It needed reforming, and Bishop James Parker Dees was that Reformer of our Modern times. We shall ever be thankful to God for such men!
Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
On Point
Someone asked, where do the quotes come from? The answer is from the people who uttered them. But, how did you find them? Oh, that. Some from Bishop Jerry, many from Rev Bryan Dabney, a few from other places, some from Rev Geordie Menzies-Grierson, but overall mostly from Bryan. He always has some great ones to share. On to the On Point quotes –
Do not blame Caesar (or fill in a substitute name), blame the people of Rome (USA) who have so enthusiastically acclaimed and adored him and rejoiced in their loss of freedom and danced in his path and given him triumphal processions. Blame the people who hail him when he speaks in the Forum of the “new wonderful good society” which shall now be Rome’s, interpreted to mean “more money, more ease, more security, and more living fatly at the expense of the industrious”.
Marcus Tullius Cicero
It would tire the hands of an angel to write down all the pardons God bestows upon true penitent believers.
William Bates
Do you think that you deserve forgiveness? If you do, you are not a Christian.
D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones
There is in the nature of sovereign power an impatience of control that disposes those who are invested with the exercise of it, to look with an evil eye upon all external attempts to restrain or direct its operations.[2]
Alexander Hamilton
Federalist No. 15, 1787
Blessed is the man whom thou chastenest, O LORD, and teachest him out of thy law; that thou mayest give him rest from the days of adversity, until the pit be digged for the wicked.
Psalm 94:12-13
The words of a wise man’s mouth are gracious; but the lips of a fool will swallow up himself.
Ecclesiastes 10:12
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
St. Matthew 5:9
Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching…
St. Luke 12:37
… A man is “without Christ: when the Holy Spirit’s work cannot be seen in his life. Who can avoid seeing… that myriads of professing Christians know nothing of inward conversion of heart? They will tell you that they believe the Christian religion; they go to their places of worship with tolerable regularity; they think it a proper thing to be married and buried with all the ceremonies of the church; they would be much offended if their Christianity were doubted. But where is the Holy Ghost to be seen in their lives? What are their hearts and affections set upon? Whose is the image and superscription that stands out in their tastes, and habits, and ways? Alas there can only be one reply! They know nothing experimentally of the renewing, sanctifying work of the Holy Ghost. They are yet dead to God. And of all such, only one account can be given. They are “without Christ.”
JC Ryle
19th century Anglican bishop and author
(Holiness, pp. 319-320)
They are foolish who give their enemy the means of destroying them.
Aesop
6th century BC Greek philosopher and author
(The Trees and the Ax)
Goodness
It has sometimes been asked whether God commands certain things because they are right, or whether certain things are right because God commands them. . . . I emphatically embrace the first alternative. The second might lead to the abominable conclusion . . . that charity is good only because God arbitrarily commanded it—that He might equally well have commanded us to hate Him and one another and that hatred would then have been right. I believe, on the contrary, that “they err who think that of the will of God to do this or that there is no reason besides His will.” God’s will is determined by His wisdom which always perceives, and His goodness which always embraces, the intrinsically good. But when we have said that God commands things only because they are good, we must add that one of the things intrinsically good is that rational creatures should freely surrender themselves to their Creator in obedience. The content of our obedience—the thing we are commanded to do—will always be something intrinsically good, something we ought to do even if (by an impossible supposition) God had not commanded it. But in addition to the content, the mere obeying is also intrinsically good, for, in obeying, a rational creature consciously enacts its creaturely role, reverses the act by which we fell, treads Adam’s dance backward, and returns.
Jack Lewis
Problem of Pain
Reward
If you run now, without a moment’s rest, you will still be in time to warn King Lune.”
Shasta’s heart fainted at these words for he felt he had no strength left. And he writhed inside at what seemed the cruelty and unfairness of the demand. He had not yet learned that if you do one good deed your reward usually is to be set to do another and harder and better one. But all he said out loud was:
“Where is the King?”
Jack Lewis
The Horse and His Boy
Prudence
…practical common sense, taking the trouble to think out what you are doing and what is likely to come of it. Nowadays most people hardly think of Prudence as one of the ‘virtues’. In fact, because Christ said we could only get into His world by being like children, many Christians have the idea that, provided you are ‘good’, it does not matter being a fool. But that is a misunderstanding. In the first place, most children show plenty of ‘prudence’ about doing the things they are really interested in, and think them out quite sensibly. In the second place, as St Paul points out, Christ never meant that we were to remain children in intelligence: on the contrary. He told us to be not only ‘as harmless as doves’, but also ‘as wise as serpents’. He wants a child’s heart, but a grown-up’s head. He wants us to be simple, single-minded, affectionate, and teachable, as good children are; but He also wants every bit of intelligence we have to be alert at its job, and in first-class fighting trim. The fact that you are giving money to a charity does not mean that you need not try to find out whether that charity is a fraud or not. The fact that what you are thinking about is God Himself (for example, when you are praying) does not mean that you can be content with the same babyish ideas which you had when you were a five-year-old. It is, of course, quite true that God will not love you any the less, or have less use for you, if you happen to have been born with a very second-rate brain. He has room for people with very little sense, but He wants every one to use what sense they have.
Jack Lewis
Mere Christianity
Propers
Each Sunday there are Propers: special prayers and readings from the Bible. There is a Collect for the Day; that is a single thought prayer, most written either before the re-founding of the Church of England in the 1540s or written by Bishop Thomas Cranmer, the first Archbishop of Canterbury after the re-founding.
The Collect for the Day is to be read on Sunday and during Morning and Evening Prayer until the next Sunday. The Epistle is normally a reading from one of the various Epistles, or letters, in the New Testament. The Gospel is a reading from one of the Holy Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Collect is said by the minister as a prayer, the Epistle can be read by either a designated reader (as we do in our church) or by one of the ministers and the Holy Gospel, which during the service in our church is read by an ordained minister.
The propers are the same each year, except if a Red Letter Feast, that is one with propers in the prayerbook, falls on a Sunday, then those propers are to be read instead, except in a White Season, where it is put off. Red Letter Feasts, so called because in the Altar Prayerbooks the titles are in red, are special days. Most of the Red Letter Feasts are dedicated to early saints instrumental in the development of the church, others to special events. Some days are particularly special and the Collect for that day is to be used for an octave (eight days) or an entire season, like Advent or Lent.
The propers for the Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity can be found on Page 220-222:
The Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
The Collect.
L |
ORD we beseech thee to keep thy household the Church in continual godliness; that through thy protection it may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve thee in good works, to the glory of thy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Epistle for today came from Saint Paul’s letter to the Philippians beginning at the Third Verse of the First Chapter. Writing to the church in Philippia, Paul sends his greetings letting them know he has been praying for them constantly. He tells them that the good work God has begun in them will surely continue until Christ returns to them. Paul tells them he prays that they will find more and more joy in following the will of God. Continually reminding people of the joy of being born a new person, Paul prays that their “love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.”
I |
thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the tender mercies of Christ Jesus. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.
The Holy Gospel came from the Twenty-Eighth Chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew beginning at the Twenty-First Verse. On the subject of confession, repentance and forgiveness, knowing the rabbis had ordained forgiving one’s transgressors three times Peter asked Jesus, “Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.” Knowing Jesus as he did, Peter no doubt expected Jesus to say more times than three, but 490 may have been somewhat more than he expected. In one of the more important stories in the Bible concerning God’s forgiveness of us and our obligation to forgive others, Jesus went on to liken the kingdom of heaven to a king, who was balancing his accounts. He found a servant who owed him, in today’s terms, a million dollars. The man had no money, but promised to pay and begged for mercy rather than have himself and his family sold into slavery as the law allowed to repay the debt. The king forgave him the debt and set him free. Upon release, the man being reminded of his debts, began to attempt to collect from those who owed him. The first debtor he came across owed him $10.00 and had it not. The one who had been forgiven cast the $10.00 debtor into prison. The king found out and bye, bye.
The quote is – Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Not – Do unto others before they do unto you.
P |
eter said unto Jesus, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow-servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow-servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow-servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow-servant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
Bishop Ogles’ Sermon
We are oft fortunate to get copies of Bishop Jerry’s sermon notes. Today is one of those Sundays. Today’s sermon starts off with the collect, and like always, it will give you a lot to consider in your heart.
Sermon Notes
Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
16 November 2014, Anno Domini
The Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
The Collect.
L |
ORD we beseech thee to keep thy household the Church in continual godliness; that through thy protection it may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve thee in good works, to the glory of thy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
T |
hen came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? 22 Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven. 23 Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. 24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. 29 And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 30 And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 32 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: 33 Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 34 And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. 35 So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses.
(Matt 18:21-35)
Peace of mind is one of the fruits of forgiveness. Even when we are sure in our minds that we have been irreparably wronged, there is a sore spot in our hearts that says, FORGIVE.
The wrong done you will not result in the loss of an arm, or of one’s life. Go to that person who has wronged you. He is hurting more than you are. Frankly forgive him in the same way Christ forgives you. But how does God forgives us our sins.
A tree grows and produces fruit because of the outward benefit the leaves provide through the process of photosynthesis to the inward tree, just as the inner tree gives grow the to the leaves. If we take away the leaves, the inner tree will die. Forgiveness is the leaves of the tree of our hearts.
Peter seems to be the spokesmen of choice for the disciples. He is fearless in being open and frank. One of the others most likely planted the question in Peter’s mind – most likely Judas – the least forgiving of all. So Peter frames the question in a manner consistent with the Law of Moses. He feels that seven times is a large number, but Christ gives him an answer that is intended to indicate that, like love, there should be no bottom to our forgiveness.
There are three stages of forgiveness consistent with the manner in which God forgives:
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When a brother, not one of the world, offends me, I should forgive that person in the silent chambers of my heart , but not yet openly. And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. (Eph 4:32) The bitterness of unforgiving spirit is then taken from our own hearts.
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I do not inform him of my forgiveness for him since that would not be consistent with the manner in which God forgives. I must go to him, in love, and rebuke him for his offense. Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. (Luke 17:3)
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Immediately upon the friend’s apology, you must inform him that he is forgiven. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him. (Luke 17:4) 22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. 23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.(Matt 5:22-24) There are reasons for righteous anger and indignation. It spurs us to action to remedy a wicked circumstance such as rape, murder, molesting little children, etc. We now have the parable of the Kingdom involving a King. That King is God the Father. 24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.
In the days of this accounting, the amount of ten thousand talents was an enormous amount – more than $20,000,000. The King in this story represents God. The debtor – you and me. Without the remission of our debts (sins) we are sold off into slavery and bondage to Satan. In fact, we sell ourselves out to that merciless master.
We may deem it a simple thing for a great King to forgive even an enormous debt, and feel that we are justified in demanding the last cent owed us by a poor man; but though God is a great King, He has a great Heart and is willing to forgive. It was no simple thing for Him to forgive our sins and remit them. It cost Him the life-blood of His only Begotten Son!
A minister was discussing forgiveness with some school boys one day. One of the boys was incensed that his friend had struck him on the playground. The minister asked, “Jimmy, do you think, in view of the Scripture passage we just read on forgiveness, that you could find it in your heart to forgive another boy who hurt you, or struck you, on the playground?” Jimmy responded, “Y-e-e-s-s, Sir, I suppose I could,” and then added, “I could if he was bigger than me!” Well God is bigger than all of us. But He desires that we love others as a measure of our love for Him.
The debtor in the parable pleads for patience. Apparently, the King has long exercised patience with this man, and there is no more time for it. God’s Spirit will not always strive with man. And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh (Gen 6:3) God cannot renew an unwilling spirit to reconcile that spirit to His own Spirit of Righteousness. Those whose hearts are not full of love and forgiveness do not belong to God.
28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. 29 And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. 30 And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 32 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: 33 Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee? 34 And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him.
See how this unworthy servant has received such a mighty forgiveness, and at enormous cost (as you and me through the blood of Christ) – yet cannot forgive even a small debt (100 pence or three months average wage at the time) of a fellow servant of less means. He will sell him into bondage! This is not God-like. This is not Christ-like! This is very much like the devil that deceived Eve.
You may have had a dear friend spite you in a small matter, but the resentment has built in your heart – it has grown beyond the proportions of a normal Mustard Tree and taken over your whole heart. You are weary day by day and avoid even looking into your dear friends eyes. He is hurt by your behavior, but who suffers more: the offender, or the victim. Seeds of wrath in the heart bare trees of hatred and misery.
We have all fallen so very short of the righteousness of God that it is completely beyond our sight, but Christ gives us the means to assume that righteousness of His own. He forgives our sins, washes us clean, and is ever ready to renew our hearts when we repent of every offense. He suffered intensely for you and me. Can we not overlook the smallest infraction by a friend?
The criminal has no rest of conscience in constantly contemplating his being discovered. Many would find greater joy in confessing their faults and paying debt than in whiling away in constant fear. The sinner suffers no such dilemma. The King stands at the ready to forgive promptly and completely every sin confessed, and those unthought of sins unconfessed. We need only remove the shroud of false pride and bitterness, empty our hearts of hate, and come to Him seeking forgiveness in repentance. There is no cost to the sinner for such a benefit for the cost has already been paid by the King’s Son.
If you have resentment and hate in your heart growing from unforgiven offences, open you heart to the Dipper of Love in God’s Hand and forgive all. Then you may have rest to your souls. Amen.
Sermon – Rev Jack Arnold
Church of the Faithful Centurion – Descanso, California
Today’s sermon tied the Collect, Epistle and Gospel together and talked, as is oft the case, of the need for action, not simply diction and are all tied together. Consider these words from the Collect:
… keep thy household the Church in continual godliness; that through thy protection it may be free from all adversities, and devoutly given to serve thee in good works, to the glory of thy Name …
In the Collect we ask the Lord to keep His household (that would be us) in continual godliness (that is to keep Him as our leader and follow Him), so that with His Help we can have as smooth a path as practical and serve Him in happiness.
Saint Paul follows this same thought in his Epistle when he thanks the Philippians for their fellowship and talks about how they in the bond through Christ have strengthened his faith as a result which enabled him to continue doing his good works for the Lord. In this same way our friends in the AOC, strengthen our faith as we tell others about the good news of our Lord and the faith in which we all share. The more we love the Lord, the more it will show through in our actions and our judgment. So let us keep loving the Lord, so our actions and judgment will align His!
Which brings us to the point of the Gospel, in which Christ tells Peter about forgiveness and how we must be ever patient with our fellow humans, and if they are repentant grant them that forgiveness, no matter how many times they might err and vex us. It doesn’t matter if we want to or not, if they are repentant then we must forgive them, regardless of how we want to do otherwise. If they are truly sorry for their sins, then God will forgive them, so must we forgive. For if we hold the evil of non-forgiveness in our hearts, it is to our own detriment. We can only forgive those sins against us, for those that are against God, only God can forgive. When one sins against a fellow creature, they sin against God also. When we say we forgive them, we are not forgiving them ourselves only, but informing them God has forgiven them for their sins. Remember, we can forgive them for personal trespasses against us, but through God’s power, only He can grant absolution of our sins, not us. I do not remember Christ telling Peter humans have the power to forgive sins, like the Roman Catholics claim they have, but rather that God must forgive sins, but we can tell others that God has forgiven them. It is more of an announcement of God’s forgiveness, then the actual act. God has done the actual acting of forgiveness, but it falls upon us to tell people about it.
The parable illustrates what happens to those who are forgiven, but yet turn around and do not forgive their neighbor (in this case, a debtee) for their sins and have thus abused their forgiveness from Our Lord, and will find himself in a very poor spot in the life hereafter. Let us not be like that fellow, but let us forgive our neighbor, if he is truly sorry and willing to repent and start the friendship, and turning a new leaf so to speak.
If God has been so good to forgive us, why should we not inform others God has forgiven them of any sins against Him or us for that matter? It would be truly selfish not to do so and to go against what He has commanded us to do, in spreading the Word to all nations. The lessons today speak of the power of Our Lord in forgiveness and how we must remember our bond with our fellow Christians in Christ, especially in times of great sorrow or trouble and use that to strengthen us in our day to day lives. We must always remember there are others in our heavenly family who are struggling along with us, stuck together with the mighty ultimate, stronger than Gorilla Glue, glue of Jesus Christ and God the Father. With the help of the Holy Ghost and our bond with Christ, we shall not fail.
The Collect’s prayer the Collect, Epistle and Gospel tie together, laying out, detailing and reinforcing the same message, ultimately. We have to be willing to forgive others, tell them about God’s forgiveness, and not turn around and commit the grave error of not forgiving others as God has forgiven us for our sins. We have to act more like God everyday, though we are not perfect. If we try our utmost best, then that is all we can do.
Heaven is at the end of an uphill trail. The easy downhill trail does not lead to the summit.
The time is now, not tomorrow. The time has come, indeed. How will you ACT?
It is by our actions we are known.
Be of God – Live of God – Act of God
Bishop Dennis Campbell’s Sermon
Bishop Dennis is a brilliant speaker. He is able to take biblical precepts and make them perfectly understandable, even to me. Oft he provides the text of his sermons and I take the utmost pleasure in passing them on:
God and Godliness
Psalm 32, Philippians 1:3-11, Matthew 18:21-35
Twenty -second Sunday after Trinity
November 16, 2014
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rant, O Lord, that by thy holy Word, read and preached in this place, and by thy Holy Spirit grafting it inwardly in the heart, the hearers thereof may both perceive and know what things they ought to do, and may have power and strength to fulfill the same.
It has been said truly the longest journey begins with the first step. Sometimes we look at the spiritual journey to which God has called us, and, seeing it is long and difficult and filled with dangers, we shrink back from it, afraid to make such a commitment or to devote ourselves to such a seemingly impossible task. In such times we need to remind ourselves that we cannot accomplish the entire journey in one mighty leap. We must take it one step at a time. Put one foot in front of the other, and keep on walking until we reach our Heavenly home.
It is also true that each step is a new beginning. It is a new chance to put one foot in front of the other, or to stop, quit, or turn back. Everyone knows we cannot reach our destination by quitting. Only those who continue the journey will reach the goal.
This is more true in spiritual things than in any other sphere of life. A writer may never achieve the goal of writing a great masterpiece, yet still have some measure of success. An architect may never achieve the goal of designing a great cathedral, yet still plan useful buildings for homes and businesses and churches. But in spiritual things there is no such thing as partial success. We either continue in Christ to the end, or we do not. We either follow our Lord to Heaven, or we allow the devil to take us to hell. Thus we come to the point we are trying to draw from this morning’s Scripture readings; continue in Godliness.
Philippians 1 commends the Church at Philippi for their fellowship in the Gospel. This fellowship is much deeper than simply believing the same doctrines and enjoying one another’s company. It is a common participation in a way of life It is consciously and intentionally uniting together in Christ. It is sharing life together as the people of God and body of Christ. It is intentionally allowing their fellow Christians to become a part of their lives, and intentionally becoming a part of the lives of other Christians. It is also having a compassionate and active concern for one another, similar to that which Christ has for them. One of the sad misunderstandings of contemporary evangelicalism is its neglect of the communal aspect of the faith. It has emphasised personal autonomy and personal salvation and personal relationships with God so much that the Church has been reduced to a voluntary association which we are free to take or leave according to our own convenience or preferences in music or style. In such thinking, the Biblical teaching of oneness in Christ is in danger of being reduced to a mere metaphor, or a spiritualised reference to the invisible Church.
According to scripture, the visible Church is a connected Church, and the individual Christian is a connected Christian. The Church does not consist of autonomous Christians in independent churches associating with one another by choice. It is one body, the Body of Christ in which individual congregations and Christians are members of the organic whole.
Paul urges the Philippians to “abound yet more and more… till the day of Christ.” He is telling them to continue in Godliness. They have made good start, but a good start is nothing unless they continue in Godliness.
Matthew 18 shows an important aspect of continuing in Godliness. We are to forgive as Christ has forgiven us. Forgiveness means to wipe the record clean of offences, and to treat others as though they have committed no offenses against you, and, as though there is nothing in their mannerisms that is offensive to you. Matthew 18 also shows us how to deal with serious offences and breeches of fellowship, and I urge everyone to read and practice our Lord’s teaching there.
I think it is important to remember that Christ was talking about our relationships within the Church. He was talking to Jews who were fellow members of the people of God. This does not mean we don’t have to forgive unbelievers. But the Lord’s concern here is the preservation of unity and harmony within the Church. Nor does forgiveness mean we are to allow ourselves to be assaulted with false doctrine and practice within the local church or denomination. If such things exist in our fellowship, we must make a serious, loving attempt to remedy them. If such attempts fail, we have no choice but to remove ourselves from them.
The main point here, today, is that we do not allow offences against us to prevent us from continuing in Godliness. We forgive offenses, and continue to place one foot in front of the other in the journey of faith.
There is no doubt about the difficulty of this. We grow weary of fighting the same battles and temptations over and over. We are saddened by the unGodliness in our nation and world, and, of course, in ourselves. We grow tired of the burdens we carry, and when we see another problem coming toward us, we are tempted to move away like a horse that doesn’t want to be ridden.
But it is not only the burdens and trials of life that tempt us to give up on God. It is more than even offenses committed against us by other Christians. The weight of our own sins, and the consequences of them in our daily lives deprives us of our joy in Christ, and tempts us to quit, rather than continue in Godliness. Psalm 32 addresses this. Written by David after his sin with Bathsheba, David recognises that he has brought most of his problems upon himself. That is probably true of most of us. We follow our own desires, either unconcerned about the will of God, or convincing ourselves our sins will have no great effect on our lives and relationships, and in doing so we pile hot coals upon our heads. A person who habitually drives in a careless fashion will eventually lose the right to drive, one way or another. A person who refuses to do his job will find himself unemployed. A person who neglects the means of grace will, at best, find that the passing years bring him no closer to God, and may even find that his faith was a pretense all of those years, and now it is completely dead. As St. Paul wrote in Galatians 6:7, “whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
I want to quickly address two other points of this Psalm. First, now is the time to devote yourself to continuing in Godliness. Now is the time to start putting one foot in front of the other and keep on walking until you reach Heaven. This is accomplished by recognising and turning away from sin, and trusting in Christ. It is accomplished by diligence in prayer, worship, Scripture, Church, and obedience in the everyday things of life. These are the steps on the journey of faith. Doing these things is the way we put one foot in front of the other and follow Jesus. I think we are sometimes like Naaman in that we want God to ask us to go on some great mission and undertake some great quest for Him. Instead He tells us to go home and care for our families, mow the lawn, rake the leaves, cook the meals, earn a living, go to Church, read the Bible, pray, and love one another. These are the small steps of daily continuing in Godliness.
The second point is, God will help you. In the first 8 verses of Psalm 32, David is speaking to God. Here David repents of his sin and commits his way unto God again. But in verse 9 God speaks to David. God says, “I will inform thee, and teach thee in the way wherein thou shalt go; and I will guide thee with mine eye.” God is promising to help David. He is promising to teach David what He needs to know about living a life that is happy and fulfilling and avoids some the pits into which David has recently fallen. He makes the same promise to you. Most of all, He promises to show David how to continue to walk with God. Or, as I have put it in this sermon, God is teaching David, and us, how to continue in Godliness. And all the means of grace I talk about so often, are the means by which God teaches and guides you in Godliness, now in this life. They lead you into the gladness and joy expressed in Psalm 32:12. That’s a wonderful verse, but I think verse 11 is the great conclusion of the Psalm, and an appropriate closing to the sermon; “whoso putteth his trust in the Lord, mercy embraceth him on every side.”
Father of all mercies, keep us in continual Godliness, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
+Dennis Campbell
Bishop, Anglican Orthodox Church Diocese of Virginia
Rector, Holy Trinity Anglican Orthodox Church
Powhatan, Virginia
www.HolyTrinityAnglicanOrthodoxChurch.org
www.lifeinthescriptures.blogspot.com
Roy Morales-Kuhn, Bishop and Pastor – St. Paul’s Anglican Church – Anglican Orthodox Church
Bishop Roy is pastor of the biggest AOC parish West of the Mississippi and is in charge of the Diocese of the Epiphany.
Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
Foundation Day
16 November 2014
Let us pray:
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lmighty and ever living God, we yield unto Thee most high praise and hearty thanks, for the wonderful grace and virtue declared in our founding bishop, James Parker Dees of Thy Church in America and throughout the world, who has given unto us Thy holy Word in a language understood of the People, together with a rich heritage of civil and religious freedom, and the blessings of Apostolic faith, order, fellowship and worship, in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
As an interesting point, the second Psalm reading for this date in Morning Prayer includes the five part aspect that David brought forth in the psalm. God is his judge, his strength, his guide, his joy and his hope.
When we look at the latter days of our founding bishop’s ministry, we see a similar concept coming into view. Bp J.P. Dees would in his life and ministry show that he like David relied upon God for these five aspects of his walk with God.
Bishop Dees did not care that his contemporaries and erstwhile compatriots had abandoned him when he stepped out to follow God not man. God was his judge. The good bishop relied upon God to be his strength(when all others seemed to abandon him), his guide when no one of his conviction seemed to come to his side and go with him. And we know most certainly, that God was bishop Dees hope and joy.
Our first bishop turned to God in hope, he turned to God in joy, for he knew that it did not come from those who mocked him, those who scorned him, those who left him for fear of their own reputations.
For the rest of this study I am going to turn to that classic Bible scholar, Matthew Henry and his commentary on Psalm 43.
Psalm 43
King James Version (KJV)
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udge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man.
2 For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?
3 O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles.
4 Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God.
5 Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.
David here makes application to God, by faith and prayer, as his judge, his strength, his guide, his joy, his hope, with suitable affections and expressions.
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As his Judge, his righteous Judge, who he knew would judge him, and who (being conscious of his own integrity) he knew would judge for him (Ps. 43:1): Judge me, O God! and plead my cause. There were those that impeached him; against them he is defendant, and from their courts, where he stood unjustly convicted and condemned, he appeals to the court of heaven, the supreme judicature, praying to have their judgment given against him reversed and his innocency cleared. There were those that had injured him; against them he is plaintiff, and exhibits his complaint to him who is the avenger of wrong, praying for justice for himself and upon them.
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As his strength, his all-sufficient strength; so he eyes God (Ps. 43:2): “Thou art the God of my strength, my God, my strength, from whom all my strength is derived, in whom I strengthen myself, who hast often strengthened me, and without whom I am weak as water and utterly unable either to do or suffer any thing for thee.” David now went mourning, destitute of spiritual joys, yet he found God to be the God of his strength. If we cannot comfort ourselves in God, we may stay ourselves upon him, and may have spiritual supports when we want spiritual delights. David here pleads this with God: “Thou art the God on whom I depend as my strength; why then dost thou cast me off?” This was a mistake; for God never cast off any that trusted in him, whatever melancholy apprehensions they may have had of their own state. “Thou art the God of my strength; why then is my enemy too strong for me, and why go I mourning because of his oppressive power?” It is hard to reconcile the mighty force of the church’s enemies with the almighty power of the church’s God; but the day will reconcile them when all his enemies shall become his footstool.
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As his guide, his faithful guide (Ps. 43:3): Lead me, bring me to thy holy hill. He prays, 1. That God by his providence would bring him back from his banishment, and open a way for him again to the free enjoyment of the privileges of God’s sanctuary. His heart is upon the holy hill and the tabernacles, not upon his family-comforts, his court-preferments, or his diversions; he could bear the want of these, but he is impatient to see God’s tabernacles again; nothing so amiable in his eyes as those; thither he would gladly be brought back. In order to this he prays, “Send out thy light and thy truth; let me have this as a fruit of thy favour, which is light, and the performance of thy promise, which is truth.” We need desire no more to make us happy than the good that flows from God’s favour and is included in his promise. That mercy, that truth, is enough, is all; and, when we see these in God’s providences, we see ourselves under a very safe conduct.
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As his joy, his exceeding joy. If God guide him to his tabernacles, if he restore him to his former liberties, he knows very well what he has to do: Then will I go unto the altar of God, Ps. 43:4. He will get as near as he can unto God, his exceeding joy. The nearer we come, the closer we cleave, to God, the better. 2. Those that come to the altar of God must see to it that therein they come unto God, and draw near to him with the heart, with a true heart: we come in vain to holy ordinances if we do not in them come to the holy God. 3. Those that come unto God must come to him as their exceeding joy, not only as their future bliss, but as their present joy, and that not a common, but an exceeding joy, far exceeding all the joys of sense and time. The phrase, in the original, is very emphatic—unto God the gladness of my joy, or of my triumph. Whatever we rejoice or triumph in God must be the joy of it; all our joy in it must terminate in him, and must pass through the gift to the giver. 4. When we come to God as our exceeding joy our comforts in him must be the matter of our praises to him as God, and our God: Upon the harp will I praise thee, O God! my God. David excelled at the harp (, and with that in which he excelled he would praise God; for God is to be praised with the best we have; it is fit he should be, for he is the best.
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As his hope, his never-failing hope, Ps. 43:5. Here, as before, David quarrels with himself for his dejections and despondencies, and owns he did ill to yield to them, and that he had no reason to do so: Why art thou cast down, O my soul? He then quiets himself in the believing expectation he had of giving glory to God (Hope in God, for I shall yet praise him) and of enjoying glory with God: He is the health of my countenance and my God. That is what we cannot too much insist upon, for it is what we must live and die by.
From Matthew Henry Commentary on the Holy Bible
A Prayer for the Anglican Orthodox Church
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ord our heavenly Father, look down from heaven, we pray, on thy holy church, and especially on our Anglican Orthodox Church. Fill it with thy Holy Spirit of peace, power, wisdom, and goodness, and make it strong in will to do thy will. Keep it from all danger, evil and error, and defend it from all of its enemies. Bring into its fold thy countless children who are wandering today as sheep without a shepherd, that they may be fed with the Living Bread and nourished with the Water of life. Move the hearts of thy people to give to it generously of their bounty as Thou hast given to them, that it may flourish for thy Name’s sake, witnessing to the glory of thy Son our blessed Saviour, and fulfilling its mission of training sound men for its ministry and spreading the mission of training sound men for its ministry and spreading the good news of reconciliation to all mankind, that thy kingdom come and thy will be done through all the earth: all of which we ask in the Name of thy dear Son our blessed Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen.
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Rev Bryan Dabney of Saint John’s Sunday Sermon
We are fortunate to have Bryan’s Sunday Sermon. If you want people to come to The Truth, you have to speak the truth, expouse the truth and live the truth. This is really a good piece and I commend it to your careful reading.
Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity
Consider, if you will, the message of St. Paul in the epistle wherein he admonished young Timothy to, Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us (II St. Timothy 1:13-14). It is a message to every minister who has been called and sent forth since that time. Holding fast, or keeping to those doctrines which have been set down within the pages of Scripture ought to be of paramount importance to every Christian pastor. Keeping the word within and proclaiming it to others is what a true and faithful minister of the gospel will do. Because he has been called of God via the Holy Ghost to preach the word to others, so he has been given of that same Spirit the deposit of the word.
In another epistle, the apostle noted that, But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal (I Corinthians 12:7). Matthew Henry noted that, “Whatever gifts God confers on any man, he confers them that he may do good with them… The outward gifts of his bounty are to be used for his glory and employed in doing good to others. No man has them merely for himself. They are a trust put into his hands to profit all; and the more he profits others with them, the more abundantly will they turn to his account in the end. [These] gifts are bestowed not for show; but for service… not to magnify those who have them, but to edify others.”
Look back at the life of Moses. He was given spiritual gifts to lead the children of Israel from bondage in Egypt to liberty in the Promised Land. Look at Joshua’s life and leadership. He too was filled with the Spirit as he led Israelites across the Jordan River to victory after victory over the numerically superior forces of the Canaanites.
Look at the life of Ruth, whose tribal roots were set aside by her love for her mother-in-law. In her love and devotion for Naomi, she embraced the LORD and found favor in his eyes. She later became the wife of Boaz whose descendant was King David, son of Jesse.
Look at the life of Daniel. He and his friends faced many challenges as members of Nebuchadnezzar’s court. In spite of those things, he survived and prospered via the power of the Holy Ghost and all because he was faithful to God’s word written.
Consider also the apostles of our Lord who proclaimed the good news of our Lord across the known world. And because of their teaching and preaching, the gospel of truth was made available to us. All of the above sought to follow God’s commandments and thus became a blessing to others. The gospel minister ought to do likewise.
Now it should be woefully apparent not all ministers today adhere to the sound words of Scripture. These false shepherds hold to an image of our Lord which is the antithesis of that found within the pages of the Bible. They preach a false gospel and a de-natured Christ. Oh, they will admit that Jesus was a good teacher whose words we ought follow as a philosopher, but not as the only begotten Son of God. They are unable to preach a convincing sermon on the resurrection of our Lord because many do not believe that it was a real event and hence, there will be no resurrection of the dead in Christ. (Truth be told, a road- kill sermon is likely the only one you could get them to honestly preach regarding the resurrection. Not much spiritual comfort there.) If there is divinity in their understanding of Jesus, it’s the longevity of his words of caring and compassion, but not about those things of the supernatural such as his coming kingdom and, goodness no, not about judgment, hell and everlasting damnation for those who have rejected his offering of free grace. They believe that God will show his love to all persons unconditionally, regardless of their belief or behavior. And with that in mind, they will not preach or teach anything that would dissuade or denigrate a wayward soul to turn from his or her wickedness and live.
But all of this is academic as the sound words— sound doctrines— of Scripture do not support modernist position. They may worm and squirm around the passages that call them out as frauds, but they cannot confront them directly without being crushed by them. That is why they will avoid them if they can, or brush them off as irrelevant if they must consider them at all.
But true gospel preaching will include the love of God for us through his free gift of salvation in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. It will include the need for confession as well as obedience. It will also include the admonition that God’s wrath will fall upon all who would resist his word and commandment.
Sound words are found in the presentation of God’s law. It convicts us in our hearts and humbles us before a righteous and holy God. At that point the apostle asked, O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death (Romans 7:24)? He then supplied the answer: I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 7:25). There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:1-2). We have hope in our Lord Jesus Christ that as he has overcome death and is at the right hand of the Father, so too will we also overcome death and rise to life eternal in his kingdom.
But there can be no admission into God’s kingdom without the blood of Christ being upon those who desire to enter therein, and for that to happen a person must accept Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord. It is more than a mere belief in God, or in some philosophical understanding of Jesus as a good teacher. It means accepting him for who he is as God’s only begotten Son. It means accepting the virgin birth, his miracles, his commandments, his suffering and death on the cross, his descent into the earth, his glorious resurrection and ascension, and his coming again to establish his kingdom which will have no end.
The New Ager, the errant, the deviant, the mocker, the doubter, and the patent refusenik of the gospel message has no capacity to accept Christ Jesus. They are natural rather than holy. They are infidels rather than of the true faith. They are lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. They are covetous, boasters, blasphemers, without natural affection, possessing a form of godliness but in denial concerning its real power in their lives (II St. Timothy 3:1-5).
Those who would hold fast to the form of sound words will do as God has commanded. They will receive with joy the gospel of our Lord. They will be justified and sanctified in the faith. They will love God with all their hearts and souls. They will seek to become more Christ-like every day. Holding fast the truth of God’s word written means also seeking to add to the kingdom such as will come in and be saved via the hearing of the word. The true minister of the gospel will not hesitate to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ before others. May our most gracious heavenly Father bless each of you with true repentance, amendment of life and the grace and consolation of his most holy Spirit. That with his indwelling, you will go from strength to strength, working in that field of endeavor which he has called you. So then, my brethren, hold fast to the sound words which he has given you and be thankful.
Let us pray,
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ather, assist us as we hold fast to that which you have given us in thy word written and help us to administer the same to others; for this we ask in the name of thy dear Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Have a blessed week, Bryan+
After Church Hospitality
We would like some pictures of your after service gatherings. Come on! Help out!
People in our Prayers – http://faithfulcenturionprayerteam.blogspot.com/
Why? Prayer is an extremely important activity.
It is not that God knows not our needs, for He surely does. Yet, Jesus commanded us to ask God for those same needs. In addition to the obvious of asking God for help, offering thanksgiving and the like, prayer helps us focus our thoughts on how we might do God’s work.
The Prayer Team of the Anglican Orthodox Church was established to help our members and fellow Christians pray for those in need and to give thanks as well for the blessings we have been granted.
Who can be on the list? Do I have to be a member of the Anglican Orthodox Church to be prayed for?
No! The only qualification to be on the list is that you want our prayer team to pray for you. We are Christians and are happy to pray for you, no matter who you are. If you want help from God, you are our kind of people.
What is the commitment from the prayer team?
Each member of the team will pray for the desired outcome at last once per day.
How do I get myself or someone else on the prayer list?
You can email one of the prayer team leaders: Jack – jack@faithfulcenturion.org or Dru – dru@ faithfulcenturion.org, or call the office at (619) 659-3608 or fill out a prayer card at church.
What should I ask for?
Depends on what you want. Some people merely want God to be asked to heal their ills and be mentioned by their first name, others want a specific outcome and / or have more of their personal information known to the team. Ask for what you want. It is your desire and need for prayer the team is attempting to meet. For typical examples, see the list below.
Updating the Team
If you are on our prayer list, or if you have submitted a person that you have asked us to pray for, please update one of the team members or Hap in person, by telephone or email. It helps to be able to pray specifically for these individuals including their specific needs; plus if they get better, it is nice to give thanks!
Please note that on the yellow (maybe green or orange if you get an old one) cards at church, you can ask that those to be prayed for have their names disseminated to the prayer team. Those names will be said in church and appear here. Or, you can ask that their names and purpose be kept confidential, then only Hap will know to pray for them.
Prayer List Notice – If you have someone on the prayer list and their needs have changed, please let us know. We’d like to update our prayers to reflect the need and most important to give thanks!
Travel
No known travel this week.
Birthday
The Anglican Orthodox Church celebrated its 51st birthday on 16 November 2014.
Jack Arnold celebrated his 22nd birthday on 26 October 2014.
Margie Arnold Haynes celebrated her 94th birthday on 25 October 2014.
Mrs. Kay, that is Kay Denton, celebrated her 70th birthday on 2 October 2014.
Wedding
Natalie and Willy were married on 8 November 2014. Please pray for them as they come together as a single unit. Pray each of them will work together to actually join as one and grow closer to our Lord.
Move
The Thomas Family is now in Okinawa for a second short tour. Please pray for this new assignment to go well for Kurt and for Mary and the kids to make new friends. In particular pray that Kristyna and Mitchell will develop good friends and schoolmates there so as to further their development as both Christians and citizens. Give thanks the safe move and ask for continued good developments.
Departed
Carol Anne left for home with our Lord on 11 November 2104, after a hard fought battle with cancer. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for her family members who of necessity remain behind.
Annette left for home on 9 November 2104, after dehydration problems, plus kidney and liver problems. She had delayed getting help because of financial. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for her family members who of necessity remain behind.
Tazeem Gill, AOC Pastor of the church in Narrowal, returned home to be with our Lord after a heart attack on 7 November 2014. A 2002 graduate of Faith Seminary, he was married last year and leaves behind his wife. Please give thanks for his time here on earth and pray for comfort and strength for his wife who of necessity remains behind. Pray also for his congregation who miss their pastor.
Bill Harrington passed away the afternoon of 31 October 2014, quite unexpectedly. Please join his family in giving thanks for Bill’s time here on earth. Please pray for his family who of necessity remain behind, that they might put their sorrow at the temporary separation on God’s back, while they look forward, not back. Pray in particular for his mother who has now lost three of her six children and for his brother Michael who will have to help in straightening things out.
Anniversary of Departure
Ken Jennings, Grasshopper, left for home on 2 November 2013. Please give thanks for his time here on earth and for pray comfort to his wife Terri and children Trevor, Tawnya and Tessa.
Nearing the end of their time here on earth
Maggie is nearing the end of her time here on earth. Please pray for Maggie and her husband Dub as she prepares to go home to be with her family who have gone before her. Pray for the faith of her family to build and the transition to be good.
Alan is a victim of metastasized colon cancer already destroying his liver. His youngest sister has put aside her hard-earned career to care for her brother in these days on earth. Please pray for him as he prepares to go home to be with his family who have gone before him. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Alan and his family who will of necessity remain behind.
Saundra is in ICU with congestive heart failure after a heart operation. She is aged and frail. Saundra is near the end of her time here on earth. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Saundra and her family who will of necessity remain behind. Pray for the love of God to stay foremost in their hearts.
Polly is in hospice care with dementia and spinal stenosis. Please pray for her as she prepares to go home to be with her family who have gone before her. Pray for the faith of her family to build and the transition to be good.
Homebound or Infirm
Mary is an elderly woman who had a hip replacement. Please pray her as she is home recovering.
Joan has had serious medical problems that have kept her confined. On 26 September 2013, she took a fall. Please pray that in the weeks ahead her health will remain stable.
Norma, Sara’s mother is in a state of deteriorating health, both physically and mentally, with both dementia and Alzheimer’s. She is slowly drifting away, though she still recognizes Sara and prayer gives her a sense of peace. Please pray for both Sara and her mother to put their cares and worries on God’s shoulders so they can deal with the many problems involved.
In need of a miracle or understanding of God’s Plan
June found she has a recurrence of colon cancer, which is now Stage Four, that is it has spread. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that June’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help June and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.
Cindy has been diagnosed with an aggressive malignant brain tumor. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Cindy’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Cindy and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.
Sarah, wife of Rev Geordie (AOC – UK), has been treating for ovarian cancer. She has lost her son, as well as a long time furry family member; she is home from hospital having had fluid drained from her lungs. God will give us all the strength we need if we but let Him. Having said that, Sarah is under more stress than can be imagined. Pray that Sarah and Geordie be guided to the new kitten God has chosen for them. Please pray for a miraculous remission; and that Sarah might put all her sadness, fear, worry and terror on God’s back so that her remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Sarah, Geordie and their family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
From Sarah (5 November 2014)
Dear Prayer Partners,
My husband George forwarded to me your prayers.
I was humbled and amazed at how God our Heavenly Father works in and through individuals to encourage and uplift others – me! That He would place upon your hearts thoughts and prayers for my health and well being, I am in awe and wonder at the greatness of our God who pays attention to the little details of our lives. What an awesome God we serve people. Bless you all for your faithfulness, constancy and through you, an outpouring of grace to me. I feel well loved.
With sincere love in Christ,
Your sister in Jesus, Sarah
Leon McKay suffered a stroke a few weeks back that has left him unable to speak and while undergoing evaluation the doctors also found he has a very aggressive cancer. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Leon’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Leon and his family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Rev. Thomas Brooks is not improving and being kept alive by artificial machines. Please pray for a miraculous recovery and if that not be God’s Will, a rapid passing to home. Help Thomas’ family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry
Ronnie has kidney cancer that has spread and the surgeons are very concerned. Please pray the medical team to formulate a successful treatment plan and for a miraculous remission; that Ronnie’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Ronnie and family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Levi was cancer free for 4 years and just discovered he has kidney cancer. Levi has a great deal of faith and said whether he is healed or God takes him home he will be fine. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Levi and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders. In particular, please pray for pain relief; Levi is 22 years old.
Ray Daley is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion and served his country during the Korean War era. Ray is taking chemotherapy treatments for cancer. Meanwhile his son Trevor is in the hospital in a coma and seems to have lost the will to live.
Pat has been under treatment for colon cancer for sometime. He has had major complications the last few days and your prayers will be appreciated by family and friends.
Dorothy had pneumonia, on checking her lungs they found tumors which permeated the lung area. Further investigation found a primary site in the colon, with the lung being secondary. It would appear there is no viable treatment at this time. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that her remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Dorothy and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Becky has fourth stage metastasized lung cancer and is not doing well with chemotherapy treatments. Please pray for Becky and her husband as they are together during this difficult time in their lives.
Jane has fourth stage cancer and is not doing well. Please pray for Jane and her family as they are together during this difficult time in their lives.
Larry Howes suffered a fairly severe stroke. 4 December 2012, doctors replaced a valve in a shunt that had been put in about two weeks before, and Larry responded very well. He was able to go home.
Pray also for confidence in our Lord for Larry and his family. Larry needs a miracle, pray for one. Please.
Colleen has been battling pancreatic cancer over the last year and it has now spread to one of her lungs. Please keep her and her family in your prayers.
Christine has cancer of the colon, which spread to her liver; she is receiving chemotherapy and is having difficulty eating. Please pray for the medical team treating her to pay attention and do their very best; pray also for confidence in our Lord for Christine and her family.
Todd and Kenny have both been fighting osteocarcinoma for over five years and have been told their time here on earth is nearing its end, absent a miracle from God. Both are ready to go home and leave the pain, but would like to stay. Please pray for them and their families.
Surgery
Albert had a pacemaker installed recently. He will require surgery soon for a leaking heart valve and has just been told he has esophageal cancer. Pray he will turn to God and come to know Him on a more personal basis as the days go by.
Jane underwent heart valve repair surgery on 3 July 2014. Please pray for full recovery. Pray also Jane and her family to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Mario has early-diagnosed prostate cancer and had surgery. Pray for complete remission and that Mario and his family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Eddie has upcoming bladder surgery. Please pray for the surgical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Eddie and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Testing and Treatment
Maverick, a newborn little boy, has congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This is an inherited genetic defect that limits production of one of the many enzymes the adrenal glands use to make cortisol.
Most of the problems caused by classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia are related to a lack of cortisol, which plays an important role in regulating your blood pressure, maintaining blood sugar and energy levels, and protecting your body against stress.
This condition has no cure, but can be managed. Prayers are requested for Maverick, and his parents Kellie and Robert, as they adjust their lives to deal with Maverick’s condition.
Carol Anne needs God’s comfort and healthy test results as she is anxiously undergoing tests related to previous hysterectomy and experiencing symptoms in the surrounding area.
Garth Neel is undergoing chemotherapy for lymphomacancer. He had to postpone last week’s chemotherapy due to low white blood cell count. Please pray his numbers will get in line so that the treatment can continue. Pray for medical team contemplating and evaluating the treatment that they might be guided to the correct choice and do their very best. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Garth and his family.
Garth is the AOC Bishop of Canada with oversight of South America and a really both good and nice fellow.
From Garth – The results of a recent CAT scan indicate the tumour in my abdomen has been reduced from its original 12 by 9 cms to 8.5 by 7 cms … The doctor’s office calls this “significant” … and adds the tumour is “stable” … ie not trying to grow back. I continue with my 4th chemo therapy treatment on Tuesday, and am confident, by the grace of God and through the prayers of all, the tumour will continue to recede and finally be eradicated. + Garth (1 November 2014)
Jennifer has some lumps on the right side of her neck; they have grown and multiplied. In the last few months she has been having problems swallowing. Jennifer has an appointment with specialist in several weeks to try and discover what it is. She is having a great deal of anxiety as she waits for her Doctors appointment and will appreciate your prayer for anxiety and health.
Rick has heart problems. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Rick and his wife Wanda to keep their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Clay has melanoma. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Rick and his wife Pam to keep their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Tom is battling cancer. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Tom to keep his trust in the Lord and let Him carry his worry.
Atina has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Atina to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry.
Evelyn has been diagnosed with bone cancer. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Evelyn to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry.
Stacy has Multiple Sclerosis and was hospitalized for what turned out to be food poisoning. Pray for trust in God for Stacy and Chris as they deal with Stacy’s illness.
Dick Gray had developed a Merkle Cell carcinoma just under his sternum carcinoma which is considered a stage four carcinoma since it has ‘metastasized’. He traveled to Seattle, Washington where he was examined and considered for a new type of treatment. That treatment will not begin for at least three months, so they referred him to the Rutgers University Cancer Institute, New Brunswick, New Jersey. They have accepted him into the evaluation process, which will begin on Monday 11 August 2014. Rutgers started with monkeys and had good results, so now they are working with humans, Dick is hopeful as he has oft been referred to as an “Old Monkey.” Please pray for peace of mind and safe travel for Dick and his lovely wife Jennifer as they travel to New Jersey this weekend. Pray for those contemplating the treatment that they might be guided to the correct choice and do their very best. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Dick and his wife Jennifer. Dick is the Treasurer and a Vestryman at Saint Paul’s AOC in Missouri.
Janet Jessup had a stroke on 3 July 2014. She has made some progress and is now out of the stroke unit and in the General Surgery and Care Unit. Please pray for those treating her to find the appropriate treatment and for trust in God and peace of mind for Name and her family, in particular her husband of 43 years, Rev Roger Jessup, minister of Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church.
Liz Strauch had a pineal cyst, which in the end responded well to a surgical draining last year. Since November 2013, similar symptoms have returned. A CT Scan turned up what is thought to be either a new cyst or an enlarged pineal gland. More testing, including an EEG is in the works. She can no longer work. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Liz and her family, in particular her husband Ken and sons Caleb and Nathan; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Liz to heal completely.
Faye is in the hospital because she is weak has been receiving blood transfusions. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Faye and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Faye to heal completely.
Tom has heart and kidney problems. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Tom and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Tom to heal completely.
Harold has had a severe stroke. He is now home, but his family is looking for a rehabilitation facility to help him recuperate. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Harold and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for him that they might find the best treatment facility to allow Harold to heal completely.
Joe has had a preliminary ALS diagnosis. Pray the final diagnosis will something that will allow him to continue taking care of his devoted young family. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Joe and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mark hadswelling and fluid buildup in his lungs. It appears things may be getting under control. He needs to use a Bi-Pap mask to breathe until his lungs clear and he hates it. Pray that he will be able to adapt so his lungs can clear. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mark, as well as for his family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Preston is reacting poorly to recent neck surgery and now has problems with his liver count; Physicians feel that dialysis will help. There may be a blockage in the bowel and an operation might be necessary. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best to determine how to help Preston and for a good outcome. Pray also that Preston and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders while Preston does his best to facilitate a return to good health.
Erica has a non-malignant Brain Tumor which cannot be surgically removed due to the size and location. They are going to attempt chemotherapy. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Erica, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Brenda is in the hospital because of bleeding on her brain. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Brenda, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mackenzie is a young girl with leukemia. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mackenzie, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mack has had diabetes most of his adult life. Circulation in his legs is very bad and doctors are considering amputation. Please pray his medication will help and he will not face amputation. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mack and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Michael has been diagnosed with lung cancer recently after making it through gastro intestinal cancer last year. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Michael and his wife Gayle; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Ken Strauch has been tired and is anemic, he had a colonoscopy which found a pair of polyps which were removed and are being tested. Just for good measure they found he has a hiatal hernia with ulcers, basically part of his stomach is pushed up into his esophagus and is bleeding from there. Sounds like there may be surgery involved. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Ken and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Adriano is in the hospital due to high sugar and high blood pressure. He is very weak and will appreciate your prayers.
Heather recently found out she has cancer. Please pray for peace of mind for her and for the medical team treating her will be guided to the right solution.
Jim has had an aneurism and blood clots. Pray that healing will come.
Georgia has liver and pancreatic cancer. The doctors are evaluating whether to do surgery and how to tackle the disease. Georgia is a faithful Christian and appreciates your prayers. Pray for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find out the source of the problem and best course of treatment. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Georgia and her family.
Lana’s doctor found something on her lymph nodes and ovaries. Pray for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find out the source of the problem and best course of treatment. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Lana and her family.
Healing
Debbie is just beginning chemotherapy for cancer of the lymph nodes. Prayer she will be able to tolerate the therapy acceptably and remain strong as she remembers the Lord is with her at all times.
Lew Valkenaar had what is classified as a “small stroke” the night of 3 November 2014, and is now at in a Stroke Rehabilitation Center in Idaho. He is progressing, but slowly and is really having a hard time sleeping. Please pray for comfort for Lew and his wife Dotty as they struggle with the minutes, hours and days ahead; strengthen their strong faith and comfort them.
Liz had a massive stroke at age thirty-seven. The prognosis is good but she has a long road ahead. . Please pray for guidance for those treating her, for trust in our Lord for Liz and her family, for healing.
Ebick is suffering from a severe ulcer but the Doctors cannot give her the proper dosage of the medicine due to her six month pregnancy. Please pray doctors will find an alternative avenue for treatment or that God will provide.
Stan is going through chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer. He is elderly and the treatments are tiring him. Please pray for his wife Marvelene as they do this together.
Meg recently found out she had heart problems causing low blood oxygen levels, loss of focus resulting in an emergency room crisis. As a result of the symptoms she made errors on the job that caused her to lose her job. She is grateful for the excellent medical care she has received and optimistic, feeling with God’s intervention in her life her health may be reversed and a new job will become available.
Donald is in the hospital and had his leg amputated on 14 April 2014. Pray he will adjust and healing will begin.
Lucius Dabney (father of Rev Bryan Dabney) is now at home recovering from an infection. Please pray for a complete healing of the infection and return to health.
David has many concussions and unable to go to school, read books, watch TV and has headaches and migraines. He has trouble sleeping and his family will appreciate your prayers for this 10 year old young man.
Barbara Apple fell the week of 11 January 2014, in her home, breaking her right humerus (the large upper arm bone) in a spiral fracture, which cannot be set. Movement is very painful and due to a total lack of energy, she is more or less bedridden. Healing does not seem to be going well at this point. Pray for inspiration for those caring for her that they might find the appropriate treatment. Please pray for Barbara to put her trust in the Lord, look to Him for strength and for her to gain energy so she does not lose the mobility she has; pray for a full and rapid recovery. Please pray also for her husband Bob who is taking care of her that he might be comforted and strengthened in this time of stress.
Gladys has breast cancer and has had a lumpectomy. She needs to take a year off of her work to have chemo treatments.
Alwin Jack has had a stroke and recently has had a relapse. Please pray for those who treat Alwin that they might chose the best possible treatment and pray for peace of mind for Alwin during the recovery phase.
Carolyn has Multiple Sclerosis with complications. Pray Carolyn and her children will be close to our Lord Jesus Christ as they and family members help to ease the problems.
Jeong was in an auto accident and sustained a serious back injury. Please pray for a full and rapid recovery.
Dale was hospitalized Sunday 25 August 2013, after a heart attack. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating him and for peace of mind for Dale and his family.
Gil Garcia is home and doing pretty well. Pray for strength for Gil and his wife Mary as they deal with the stresses of Gil’s paraplegia and the general aging process.
Mary Garcia had surgery, she is home, but not healing as well as she hoped. Please pray for her continued healing.
Bill had malignant growth removed from a lip last month and seems to be experiencing a re-growth of the cancer. He asks your prayer for the medical team treating him and for peace of mind for himself.
Hank has osteoporosis, which has caused him a great deal of pain and inconvenience in the past few years. Pray for his healing and that his medical bills will be met.
Evelyn is an elderly woman who has had problems with her eyes and is now blind. It appears some sight will return shortly, pray for that to happen!
Joanne has begun kidney dialysis as a result of kidney failure due to extensive chemotherapy. Additionally she cares for an adopted drug addicted baby who is now nine years old. Please pray for her to keep her faith, to let the Lord carry her worry and concern and to give her strength. Pray also for those treating her that they might pay attention and do their best.
Mr. N. Anand is in the hospital and is seriously ill. He is being encouraged to pray for repentance of his sins and to depend upon our dependable God for a cure and recovery of his health. Pray that he will be a strong witness for Christ.
Jacob has been going through some dental procedures and has some pain and aggravation with the numbness. Please pray for comfort and strength for him, as well as for guidance for the medical team treating him that they might pay attention and do their best.
Jean fell and broke her ankle in three places. She will be in the hospital for rehabilitation for the next 6 weeks. Please pray for comfort and strength for her, as well as for guidance for the medical team treating her that they might pay attention and do their best.
Bud and his wife for their continued welfare and enthusiasm. Bud has been advised of an aneurism in his heart of a size not mandating immediate surgery. This comes at a time when he has sole care of his wife who recently broke two vertebrae and thereafter sustained pneumonia.
Virginia has Sinus and Allergy problems giving her severe problems. Pray that the Doctor will discover why it continues and find a cure.
Steve Thornell had a brain aneurysm, which was found before it burst. He is home from the hospital and working hard on recovery. He lacks energy from seven days in the hospital. His doctor told him he has to make serious life changes. One of the two main arteries in the back of the head is now completely closed. He must take blood thinners, he has thick blood and recent chemotherapy made it worse. Steve has always operated at 110 percent, he needs help to slow down. Please pray for trust in the Lord and a full and rapid recovery. Pray for peace of mind for Steve and his family.
Arlen is receiving treatment for lung cancer and recently experienced a ruptured colon during treatment. She is alone in Oregon but does have a friend who has traveled a great distance to be at her side. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Arlen.
Oscar discovered some time ago he had blood clots in his leg and lung. He has been treated for them and has not been cured. He now will be facing surgery. Please keep him in your prayers.
Angela had an ischemic stroke (clot).Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Angela. Please pray also that she and her family might put their worries on our Lord’s back so she can work hard towards recovery.
Nora had a stroke mid February 2013. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Nora. Please pray also that she and her family might put their worries on our Lord’s back so she can work hard towards recovery.
Linda has been hospitalized for several days with a gastrointestinal problem. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Linda.
Dester is suffering from unknown skin and diseases. Please guide the medical team treating him to find out what the problem is and cure it. Pray also for Dester to trust in the Lord.
Lee has Arterial Fibrillation; the medical people are not sure how to help her. Please pray for guidance for the team treating her and for Lee and her family to make the right decisions regarding treatment..
Nell recently adopted two children and has just been diagnosed with multiple myeloma.
Mary Lou has been suffering with seizures. She was in the hospital with a 24 hour monitor and is being sent home from the hospital with two medications and orders to return in 2 months for another MRI to review whatever is going on in her brain. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating her, as well as peace of mind and trust in God for her and her family.
Kathleen has spent the last two weeks in the hospital. She has been diagnosed with colitis, shingles and possibly colon cancer. Pray she will be comfortable and begin to heal.
Rachel has Mitochondrial Myopathy. This is a hereditary disease of the muscles and they do not have a cure for it. Part of her pain is her family does not believe she is indeed ill, as she appears to be just fine. Please pray her family will learn the truth and be supportive of her; pray also the medical people treating her will find the right measures to minimize the disease. Most particularly pray for Rachel’s trust in God.
Nicolas is in the hospital with serious symptoms of a heart disorder. Please pray for peace of mind for him and guidance for the medical team looking for the cause and cure.
Juanita is a young girl who was in a coma because of a blood disease. She has not come out and is gaining strength. They are awaiting results from blood samples. Her family thanks you for your prayers and asks that you continue.
George had foot surgery. Please give thanks for the surgery and pray for a full and rapid recovery.
Nellie is in the emergency room of a hospital in a great deal of pain. Please pray for peace of mind for her and guidance for the medical team looking for the cause and cure.
Lauralee Meade underwent a lumpectomy on Friday after Thanksgiving. A further anomaly has been discovered and she had additional preventative radiation treatment. Please pray for a complete remission of the cancer. Pray also Lauralee will maintain her great attitude and trust in God.
Bill, Sara’s husband, had a third abdominal surgery on 22 November 2011, to remove a tumor. Bill is doing better keeping the doctor’s instructions, for which we are all grateful, including taking chemotherapy once a day for one more year. He has decreased the consumption of alcohol and eating at least mostly properly. Please pray for help for him to continue do all this. Please pray also that Bill might turn his heart outward to help those around him, as well as live a long and healthy life to the honor and glory of God. Pray also for peace of mind for Bill and his wife Sara.
Kay Denton (Mrs. Kay) has had a chest infection, perhaps viral, but seems to be getting better. Please pray for continued peace of mind for Mrs. Kay and her family. Give thanks for her trust in the Lord and her positive attitude.
Matt Alcantara, age 16, came back with ZERO SCANS again in August 2014! Matt has Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), a very rare and often lethal form of cancer with limited treatment options. This is a disease that is about 90 percent fatal in a couple of years. He has no hip joint on one side, but he walks and swims! Courage? Guts? You bet! Please also give thanks for the great faith of Matt and his entire family. Their faith and trust is a wonderful example for each and every one of us. But, now is not the time to stop praying. Actually, it never is the time to stop praying!
Judith Clingwall, is afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She is currently in Laurel Place, an extended care facility in Surrey, British Columbia. Judith’s condition has worsened recently. Please pray for her to take an active part in her own life, for her strength, peace of mind, trust in God and remission of the disease so she might return home to her family. Pray also for strength for her husband Martin as he deals with all the problems and stress of Judith’s situation.
Vince (age 15), reoccurrence of Osteosarcoma, recent testing found a nickel sized tumor in his lungs. The doctors are consulting with a specialist in Houston. Please pray for guidance for the medical team and for peace of mind for Vince and his family.
Healing and Patience
Christopher has had problems with his leg for some time. Now he has to have it casted and it will stay that way for what to him seems an interminable time. Pray for patience and peace of mind for this young man who has much he wants to do.
Thanksgiving and Continued Healing
Sherill had prostate surgery Thursday 6 November 2104. All went well, please give thanks for the good outcome.
Jenniffer had surgery for breast cancer on 15 October 2014, which seemingly went well; please give thanks for that. She is in considerable pain and has an apparently minor infection. Please pray for the pain and infection to both subside. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and for a good outcome. Pray for help for Jenniffer to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry and concern as she recovers. Please pray also for strength and courage for her family as they try their best to help her.
Earl had successful surgery to remove a cancer on his nose. They had to go deeper than they originally thought, so he will need plastic surgery to rebuild the nose, but all the cancer was removed! Please join Earl and his family in giving thanks for the great result!
Jim had infection complications from diabetes in his foot. The infection appears to be under control and he has been released from the hospital. Please join in giving thanks for the quick and good result and pray for complete healing.
DiAnne Thornton had back surgery 23 September 2014, with apparently good result. Please give thanks for the good result and pray the L5 decompression will allow her walking abilities and balance to be restored.
Alice had a mastectomy on 17 September 2014, that apparently went very well with a good result. Please give thanks for the good outcome and pray for full healing and complete remission.
Mary had successful hip replacement on 10 September 2014. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and ask for God’s help in her recovery.
Kathy had what seems to be very successful surgery on Wednesday, 3 September 2014, for cancer that returned somewhat unexpectedly. Please give thanks for the good results of the surgery and pray that the cancer will be held at bay by this action. Pray also for Kathy and her family to let God carry their worry, concern and terror so that Kathy can recover fully and quickly, so as to gain the best result. Help their entire family to keep their full trust in God.
Peggy had very successful knee replacement surgery 26 August 2104. She is going home on 29 August 2014 with no pain! Please give thanks for a great result.
Nathan had successful surgery on 4 August 2014, to remove a tumor near his heart; he is home from the hospital. They think they got it all but he will continue on chemotherapy for a little while. Nathan and his family thank you for your prayers.
John Evetts had successful extensive heart surgery; he is still in the hospital and recovering. He is in good spirits. John and his family thank God for the answer to many prayers on his behalf. John is a minister in the Anglican Episcopal Church which as a relationship with the AOC. We look forward to his return to his ministerial duties at St. George’s Anglican Church in Ventura in the near future.
John Evetts entered the ministry after a lifetime of work in industry and business as well as service in the Armed Forces in Vietnam. Like the Apostles, he came to the ministry from the secular world of work. Rev. Evetts is married and has two daughters and two grandchildren.
We thank the Rev. Evetts for his service to our country and his continuing service to God and His people.
Mary Thornell had surgery on 30 October 2013, at the Riverside Community Hospital to remove a huge mass along with about ½ her colon and part of her lower bowel. Mary finished chemotherapy 17 June 2014. Tests the week of 2 June 2014 showed totally clear scans. For now, treatment is done after the last chemotherapy session. Please give thanks for the great result and also for the strength, guidance and peace of mind our Lord gave Mary and her husband Jim, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, she underwent treatment. Please pray she will stay free of the cancer in the future.
Eli a two month baby is back home after going to the ER the night of 28 May 2014, not able to breathe. Please give thanks for her recovery and pray for strength, courage and understanding for Eli’s family; as well as for God’s guidance for the neurologists and other medical people treating Eli they might find the best course of treatment and allow Eli to heal completely, as well as for strength and understanding for the parents.
Jim has been hospitalized and had several operations for cancer the last few years. The physicians discovered a number of spots; but his exam was better than expected-prayer changes things and he thanks you for your prayers. Please continue him in prayer for he will have another scan in April.
Al had an abscess found on his liver for which he was hospitalized, it turned out to be benign and will not require surgery, he has been released from the hospital. Please give thanks for this good result and pray for continued healing.
Elma is suffering from cancer. She was taken home from the hospital on the advice of her Doctor. We were asked to pray that Elma’s remaining time here on earth might be good and that Elma and family might put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry. Since then, Elma’s Bishop told us a great Miracle of the Lord is working over Elma. Doctors sent her home to die, but now she seems to be doing all right. On behalf of her, thank you for all of your prayers. Please continue praying for her complete healing.
Dennis has heart problems; now the medical people treating him discovered a large mass on his liver which turned out to be a cyst! Please give thanks for this great development and pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Dennis and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that the contemplated surgery might go well.
Dwight had major oral surgery, for which he gives thanks. He is recovering slowly and asks your prayers to speed the process.
Mike is a veteran who has served his country when she called. Please pray he will open his heart to God so He can make Mike’s crooked road straight and pull him towards the summit rather than to the pit.
Dick’s left arm was amputated after treating for Merkel Cell carcinoma over a year ago. He is now believed to be cancer free and is waiting to be fitted with an artificial arm. Please join Dick and his family in giving thanks to Our Lord Jesus Christ for his recovery as well as for their trust in God.
Bob Smouse had shoulder surgery on 28 November 2012. While the surgery went well, he is still in pain and would also appreciate prayers for continued healing and the pain to subside. He promises to work very hard on recovery therapy.
Carol Stone, the sweet wife of Mike Stone, recovered far better than expected from a severe brain bleed, but fell recently and broke her hip. She still requires 24 hour care, which Mike provides with little help.
Business
Mark’s business is in difficulty. He works in a shrinking field, of which he is one of the country’s true masters, but there is little work available. He asks that you pray that he can find a way to survive in his industry, which he loves and needs his talents. Pray he can find new sources of business and new ways of doing things, perhaps someone to partner with to better use his talents. Pray also for those who work for and with him that they might do their best to help.
Financial Guidance and Employment
Charlie is coming along in his need of both spiritual and financial. Please pray God will continue to fill his heart with the Holy Ghost for guidance. In addition, Charlie needs God’s guidance as to how to handle his life from this point forward. After many years in the aerospace industry, he is looking for a place to employ his talents to the mutual benefit of a company. He asks that you pray for God to guide him.
Doug recently became unemployed from his job of 18 years. He has been applying for jobs, but unable to get one at this time. His wife is working; this is not enough for the family. Please pray he will find employment with a firm that will be able to use his considerable skill and hard work to benefit both the firm and the family.
Catherine and Lewis are at a low ebb due to a struggle for employment. Your fervent prayers will be appreciated.
Lori is considering a potential change in her employment. Please pray for God’s guidance in considering all aspect of her potential work.
Sara is concerned about the future with her company. She would appreciate prayers for her continued employment and that her firm might find more and better ways to use her considerable skills.
Financial Guidance and Healing
Clark is in need of salvation; for God’s Will to be done in his life. Pray his family will be blessed with the financial miracles that come from doing His Will.
Timothy and Sharon had their home foreclosed the morning of 15 April 2014. They are experiencing spiritual, emotional and financial crisis at the current time. Please pray for God’s guidance as to how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves and more importantly have them draw closer to God and each other.
Linda, Rick, Christian and Sawyer are a family experiencing spiritual, emotional and financial crisis at the current time. Please pray for God’s guidance as to how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves and more importantly have them draw closer to God and each other.
David and Lorna are having financial problems. They are trying to find a smaller home which may be more affordable. Lorna has had an ongoing battle with brain cancer, her trips back and forth to the hospital have drained their finances to the point they sometimes struggle to have enough food in the house. Pleaser pray for Lorna’s healing and guidance on how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves.
Guidance
Michael and his Family ask your prayers for wisdom as they are under trial and affliction to follow the law of the land and yet honor God in so doing.
Flora is in remission with cancer, but has high blood pressure and fatigue. Flora’s Mother recently died and this has caused added stress. Please pray that she will be able to let God carry her worry and sorrow so she can do the things she needs to do.
Elizabeth and Gunner need your prayers for their general well being. Pray that they might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide their lives. Pray they might open their hearts not only to the Lord, but to each other to become one in Him and happiness.
Eric and Betty need your prayers for their general well being. Pray that they might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide their lives. Pray they might open their hearts not only to the Lord, but to each other to become one in Him and happiness.
Eli has lost his way both spiritually and mentally, please pray for him and his parents Ed and Barb, who are having great struggles seeing their son, go through these afflictions having brought up in a Christian home. Please pray his parents can find a way to help Eli.
Marie has suffered the loss of her husband, her job and her pet all in a short period of time. Please pray for peace of mind for Marie, as well as for trust in the Lord for her and those around her that she might adjust to the changes in her life and move forward to the honor and glory of our Lord with His Help. (140607)
Mitten has a Christian talking to him about Christ. Mitten does not believe and does not seem to care. Please pray Mitten will see the light.
Kristen, Rickey and their two children ask you to pray for grace, wisdom and understanding as they attempt to cope with infidelity, separation and possibly divorce as a result of backsliding from the Lord into the World.
Aaron has a problem seeing is where his life should be leading him. Please pray that he can listen to his father Paul and those around him who want him to work hard and obtain a real education now rather than just coast towards oblivion.
Danielle has accepted Christ as her Saviour. Pray she will read the Bible and meditate on His Word so she can grow in him.
Helene and her family ask your prayers for them as they deal with the loss of Alan, husband and father.
Stephanie seems to be very deeply into post partum depression after her baby was born prematurely. Please pray for her Mother in Law who is going a great distance to help Stephanie and her new Grandson. Pray that Stephanie will be able to direct her attention outward, rather than inward.
William is an elderly man living with his Son and Daughter in-law. William is causing trouble in the family because of his demanding ways and continually using bad language. The family is at wit’s end to know how to handle him and will appreciate your guidance and prayers.
Caitlin is in the grip of the Prince of Darkness; she thinks there is escape from reality in drugs. The saddest part is that reality is not as she sees it. Her family is despairing as they can do nothing to help her and ask that you pray for the Holy Ghost to enter into heart and show her the need for change before it is too late.
Nathaniel is in spiritual turmoil. His family and friends will appreciate it if you will keep him in your prayers for him to find the root of his trouble and accept God’s help to heal his heart.
Sam and her two children that have been living in a shelter and are to lose their place there. Please pray a place will be found they can stay in and recover.
Please pray Darlene will surrender her life to Christ.
Norrie is facing daily exams in the weeks ahead. Pray for calmness and concentration and to do the best possible.
Jonathan is addicted to drugs. He is now in jail awaiting trial. His parents and friends will appreciate it if you will keep him in your prayers for him to find the root of his trouble and accept God’s help to heal addiction.
Beth is suffering from ungodly treatment in her marriage. Please pray God will guide her in her behavior, actions and thoughts that she might be able to lead her husband to God so her marriage might prosper to the benefit of them.
Brandon a young man from a Christian family who married a year ago and almost immediately became estranged from him family. As a result he has had a serious problem with keeping the civil law. Please pray for Brandon that he will return to the Lord and the many problems will be eventually settled. Pray the hurt he has caused so many will be helped with our Lord’s care and love.
Dennis has some decisions to make and will appreciate our Lord’s guidance.
Earl to read and understand Scriptures he has been given.
Jeanette has had many members of her family die from diabetes and several are near death now. Jeanette does not know the Lord and is despondent and perplexed about her family and herself. Please pray she can open her heart to allow the Holy Ghost in to bring her knowledge and understanding.
Dr. Elizabeth Raj is teaching a biblical approach to the psychological problems facing many in our society today. She is battling against the growing influence of worldly psychology adopted by the churches themselves. Elizabeth constantly stresses answers are found between the covers of that precious Book, the Holy Bible. Please pray for encouragement, strength, fortitude and courage for her.
Abigail is a teenager who has behavior problems. She feels she is in an area of mental darkness. Please pray that she might look to God for help and not within herself.
Sara asks that you pray for guidance for her as she deals with the stresses of her family and life. Pray that she can separate those things which she can affect from those things which she cannot and give her grace to accept that she cannot do everything and can only change those things within her control. She asks for God’s help for her business so that she might remain gainfully employed while keeping up with the needs of her mother and husband and healing her own problems.
Jacquie to open her heart to God and accept His Love and Grace.
Hap asks you to pray he might be able to trust God will help him make the right decisions at the right time and not to worry uselessly, to change those things he can change, accept those things he cannot change, sleep well to be able to do the correct things with a clear head and that he will open his heart to the Holy Ghost.
School Challenges
Destiny, Blake and Janet
Anglican Orthodox Church
Indonesia
Please pray for the Lord’s will regarding the establishment of an AOC church in Indonesia.
A |
lmighty God and Father of all who trust and believe in thy dear Son, Jesus Christ: We seek thy divine will in the establishment of an Anglican Orthodox Church of Indonesia. In this present day of waning faith and compromising ministers, we hope to discover your will in this important matter. Keep us always strong in faith, worship, and practice; purify continually your visible church on earth, and lead us into green pastures of evangelism and love of truth. The people of Indonesia are a precious people in your sight, and we would seek the honor of preaching your Gospel in those great islands. Grant us wisdom to know and do your will always, for we ask it in the Name of thy dear Son, and our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. AMEN
Serbia
Bishop Jerry visited Belgrade to establish the Anglican Orthodox Church of Serbia where he ordained Miroslau Crcvenka as a Deacon on Saturday and Igor Djurcik as a minister or priest into The Anglican Orthodox Church of Serbia. He appointed Rev Djurcik as the Archdeacon of Serbia and Macedonia, this is the local head of the church until such time as a bishopric is established.
Please give thanks for these men answering God’s call to the ministry in a difficult time in a difficult country. Give them the gift of the Holy Ghost that they might find God’s understanding, comfort, strength, perseverance and inspiration to serve Him.
Macedonia
Bishop Jerry visited Macedonia to establish the Anglican Orthodox Church of Macedonia where he assigned Lay Reader Shakir as the shepherd with the Rev. Dr. Djurcik of Serbia as overseer (Archdeacon of Serbia and Macedonia).
Philippines
Good news from Bishop Anthony of the Philippine Islands:
Dear Bishop+ Ogles:
Hello! I just arrived from Tabuk after consecrating the Chapel made out of cogon in Nambaran. Its exciting to see plenty of kids attending the service. On the opposite village, the whole community invited us to schedule a service in the place. Their sincerity was confirmed by the willingness of one couple, Mr. and Mrs. Nestor Binnuloc, to donate a portion of land for the purpose. I instructed The Rev. Sherwin to arrange a schedule of service in that place. Thank you again for your continuous prayer over our ministry here.
In Christ Jesus,
Anthony Pangsiw
Bishop of the Philippine Islands
Pakistan
Tazeem Gill, AOC Pastor of the church in Narrowal, returned home to be with our Lord after a heart attack on 7 November 2014. The congregation has been placed in the care of Rev Irshad Masih. Pray for inspiration, guidance, strength, perseverance and courage for Rev Masih as he moves forward.
Christian couple burnt alive on accusation of blasphemy in Pakistan – Islam – The Religion of Peace™
Kasur, Punjab: 4 November 2014. (PCP)
A pregnant Christian woman named Shama Bibi and her husband named Shahzad Masih were burnt alive in Brick Kiln by a Muslim mob on allegations of blasphemy at 0700 today.
Shahzad Masih aged 36 along with his wife and four children was working as brick kiln workers for living in Chack number 59, near Kot RadaKishan, in Kasur district of Punjab province of Pakistan after migrating from his native village.
On early morning of November 4, 2014, the mosque loudspeakers of five surrounding villages were used to call Muslim to gather and teach lesson to blasphemer Christian couple who were alleged of burning pages of Quran by one Brick kiln factory Muslim employee.
The Muslim mob tortured Shahzad Masih and his wife Shama Bibi and threw them on looming flames of Brick Kiln factory until they burnt alive. While the Christian couple was burning and crying of innocence, the Muslim mob was shouting “Allah hu Akbar” “death to blasphemer” “kill infidel Christians” on which Christian residents of five villages near Chack Number 59, fled away from their homes to safe life.
According to information, police reached on scene from nearby Police Check Post but turned their eyes and made no attempt to save Christian couple from burning alive.
Brick Kiln factory owner Yousaf Gujjar and his manager instigated Muslims of nearby villages to punish Shahzad Masih and his wife Shama Bibi after their Muslim employee on complain of burning of pages of Quran. Till filing this incident story, police have rounded up 40 Muslims but still no FIR has been registered in Police station.
We are also praying and need your prayers Please Pray for their Four Children and their relatives.
B |
lessed Lord, who thyself hast borne our grief’s and carried our sorrows: Hear thou our prayer for these servants that are in trouble and distress. Draw them, we pray thee, to thyself, that they may find the comfort and strength which thou alone canst give; and to all of us the loving heart and ready hand to help, that serving the needs of others we may show forth our love and gratitude to thee. Through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen
The Anglican Orthodox Church – Pakistan
Kenneth Gill of Lahore, Pakistan, who is filling the large shoes of his father, the Rev. Younis Gill, who ministered to the church in Lahore. Kenneth is serving the members of Lahore and is taking theological courses from our seminary in Pakistan. Rev Younis Gill went to sleep in God on 4 December of 2013. This is a huge undertaking and only with God is it possible, even then it is hard! Give Kenneth the perseverance required.
The Anglican Orthodox Church in Narowal, Pakistan had its wall boundary collapse due to heavy rain on 5 July 2014. Water from the street is entering into the church compound which may damage the church building. Please pray for our priest and his wife as they try to reconstruct the wall boundary as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.
India
1 November 2014 was the 118th Anniversary of the India Diocese of our Church in South India. Throughout the area they will have prayer and would like us to join with them as they pray for the Completion of a new Church Building to be dedicated in December.
Central African Republic
Christians in the Central African Republic are experiencing the ravages of a war between the Muslim and Christians. We have both ministers and members of the Anglican Orthodox Church in Central African Republic. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.
Diocese of the Epiphany
Saint Paul’s, Moberly, Missouri would like your prayers that the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so that they might be more effective in spreading the Word of God.
Diocese of Virginia
Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church is under a lot of stress. We all are, but they need even more prayer. Rev Roger Jessup, their wonderful minister, is pressed by the duties of a primary care giver, in addition to all the worries of this world. They have one of their family’s primary breadwinners who will be soon unemployed, absent His intervention. As Rev Roger said so eloquently, “We must pray for those who mean us harm and deprive us of our property are our enemies: Our LORD has so commanded us.” We must pray they will see light and cleave to it while turning their backs on the Prince of this World. Equally important, we must pray that the Lord will raise up a political leader from among us as He has done in the past. Pray also for trust in God for each member of the parish and for them to find economic relief.
Armed Forces & Contractors
Kristyna Thomas (Fort Bragg, SC – Boot Camp), Airman Donny Patton (Hulbert Field, Florida), Jordan Brown (USMC – Fleet Marine Force – Pacific), Trevor Jennings (USAF – KC-10 Boom Operator – New Jersey), Trevor Di Marco (USN – Whidbey Island, EF-18 Pilot), Kurt Thomas (USN – Camp Foster, Okinawa)
For Our Country
Our country has lost its way. Over half the people that vote, voted for a government that promises them things it cannot deliver in return for their souls which it can, will and does take. Our foreign policy backs the rise of Islam, we turn our backs on those who would follow God and arm those who murder them. Pray God will raise up a leader from among the people who can turn the country’s course 180° and attempt to come back to God. Pray the people will recognize that they are headed down a smooth wide road into the pit, a road that will get smoother and smoother, steeper and steeper until the only possible way is down. Down, into the depths of the pit. Pray people will recognize there is:
- · One True and Triune God who is goodness in and of Himself
- · All religions are not equal
- · All ways of life are not equal;
- · The Bible holds the Key to Life;
- · All rights come from God, not the State;
- · Good;
- · Bad;
- · Evil;
- · Right;
- · Wrong;
- · Allah is the Devil;
- · Abortion is no more than sacrifice of children to Baal.
Pray this recognition will not come too late. Pray we will, each of us, do our duty to God, Country and Family, putting His Honor above all.
Persecuted
Around the world, Christians are under attack, not only in the Muslim world, but from Hindus and others in India. Also, they are under continual attack in the name of “Separation of Church and State” in the western world, as it becomes actively atheist or pro-devil buddy. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.
Thanksgiving
Jerry Ogles gives thanks for safe travel to establish the Anglican Orthodox Churches in Serbia and Macedonia.
Various Special Requests
Africa is experiencing an outbreak of the Ebola Virus; causing sickness and many deaths. Please pray for people of Africa and for their Health Providers.
The Anglican Orthodox Church in Peshawar, Pakistan sustained damage to their building as the result of heavy rains. At present the roof is being rebuilt and they have not been able to hold services. Pray it will be fixed very soon and a new place might be found until the church is restored.
Nathalie is teaching English in a small western Ukrainian town where they are having so many problems. Pray for Nathalie and others around the world who are standing up for Christian principles in their countries.
This is a horrible time for the people of India, Christians in particular; they are having problems with Hunger, Bank Closings, Transportation and Schools not functioning. Pray for the Leaders and Members of our Church in Eluru Andhra Pradesh. Pray their basic needs will be met and God will be close to them in this time of need.
Please pray for all the people of Egypt; Bishop Mouneer Anis of Egypt is asking your prayer as the supporters of the deposed Mursi government, with the support of the United States government, have been attacking Christian churches–Anglican, Catholic and Orthodox. They destroyed the car of Anglican priest Rev. Ehab Ayoub. The people of Egypt, the people of the United States need our prayers, even more so the people of the Muslim Brotherhood that they might repent of their evil and know God so the rest of the people may live in peace.
We ask that you pray, please ask God that the Holy Ghost might give you insight into how you might make the lives of your friends and family better. Remember helping others is not just those who you don’t know!
Please join us in praying that the Free Teen Guitar Class will be continue to be an opportunity for God to work in the lives of the kids and their families. Please ask God to guide the class to new opportunities to make Him known to others. Help us to let the love of our Lord shine through us into their lives, putting Him first, so that He might enter in to their hearts and lives.
The near future, as well as Next Sunday
23 November 2014 – Sunday Next before Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
27 November 2014 – Thanksgiving Day – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
30 November 2014 – First Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
7 December 2014 – Second Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
14 December 2014 – Third Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
21 December 2014 – Fourth Sunday in Advent – Holy Communion – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
25 December 2014 – Christmas Day – Holy Communion – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
28 December 2014 – Holy Innocents – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA