150208AOC Sunday Report

Anglican Orthodox Church

Worldwide Communion

Sexagesima

 

Sunday Report

 

 

 

 

Today was Sexagesima, the Second Sunday before Lent.  Want to know more about Sexagesima?  There is a nice explanation at the end of the report.

 

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 a few great ones to share.  On to the On Point quotes –

 

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:

Matthew 13:47

 

When small men cast long shadows, then it is very late in the day.

The AntiYuppie

 

You only have power over people so long as you don’t take everything away from them. But when you’ve robbed a man of everything, he’s no longer in your power— he’s free again.

Alexander Solzhenitsyn

20th and 21st century Russian author

 

The contest is not over, the strife is not ended. It has entered upon a new and enlarged arena; there the champions of constitutional liberty must fight until government of the United States is brought back to its constitutional limits.

Jefferson Davis

President of the Confederate States of America, statesman and war hero

(The Rise and Fall of the Confederate Government, Vol. II, p. 294).

 

Everyone wants to live at the expense of the State.  They forget the State lives at the expense of everyone else.

Frederic Bastiat

 

Blessed is the LORD my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.

Psalm 144:1

 

The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked shall be shortened.

Proverbs 10:27

 

This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.

Lamentations 3:21-24

 

But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; and the twain shall be one flesh… What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

St. Mark 10:6-9

 

It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not.

St. John 6:63-64

 

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.

Ephesians 4:4-6

 

It is therefore not so much the threatenings of the law, as the apprehension of the love of God, which turns the sinner from his rebellion, and draws him back to submission and obedience. All repentance without this is legal and slavish… A soul cannot approach an unreconciled God, any more than it can embrace a consuming fire.

Charles Hodge

19th century American theologian and author

The Way of Life, pp. 163-164

 

Many in these days of easy profession are likely to prove tares, and not wheat; hypocrites with fair masks on their faces, but not the trueborn children of the living God.

Charles H. Spurgeon

19th century English pastor and author

Morning and Evening, p. 235

 

Thousands will crowd to hear a new voice and a new doctrine, without considering for a moment whether what they hear is true. There is an incessant craving after any teaching which is sensational, and exciting, and rousing to the feelings. There is an unhealthy appetite for a sort of spasmodic and hysterical Christianity. The religious life of many is little better than spiritual dram-drinking, and the meek and quiet spirit which St. Peter commends is clean forgotten (I Pet. 3:4).

JC Ryle

19th century Anglican bishop and author

Holiness, pp. xxxiiii-xxxiv

 

Although Progressive elites see those dependent on government as useful idiots, they do not realize that they are the useful idiots for a higher elite, nor do they realize that American Progressivism is actually … fascism.

American Progressive Manifesto

The End of Innocence Blog, 8- 4-14

 

The estate tax, which the ultra-high net worth individuals noted by Wealth-X will likely be able largely to avoid, is instead intended to mulct investment capital from other more modestly successful, but vastly more numerous, entrepreneurs at their deaths, all in the name of “fairness,” “justice,” and “equity.” That capital, instead of being invested in ongoing businesses, will be squandered instead by politicians buying votes from those dependent on the largess of government, using funds taken by force from their rightful owners.

Bob Adelmann

20th and 21st century American investment advisor and political commentator

Largest Wealth Transfer in History is Coming, www.thenewamerican.com , 1-20-15



Politicians are politicians under any brand. They are paid and pensioned by Washington. Where do you think that their loyalties lie? The quicker we come to terms with reality about politics in America, the closer we come to serious action to restore freedom of the individual. Conservatives need to quit playing the part of an ever-returning battered spouse and recognize the Republican elites will just slap you around again next time a vote on an important liberty-related issue arises. The government and its politicians are at war with us and they are the only ones that recognize it. How many Americans actually know that government hit men can arrest you, search you without a warrant, seize property without cause and not return it, and freeze bank accounts so that legal defense can’t be hired. All this and they may never charge you with a crime. We are fully aware that few people can grasp the limits of freedom imposed upon Americans. We have been taught “freedom and democracy” so long that we love big brother no matter what. So what is a good Republican voter to do? First and foremost, he must come to terms with the fact that voting for more Republicans to send to Washington will not change the status quo.

Bob Livingston

20th and 21st century American editor of the Personal Liberty Digest

What’s A Good Republican To Do?, 1- 12-15

 

The humble are secure from many dangers to which the proud are subject.

Aesop

6th century BC Greek philosopher and author

The Fir Tree and the Bramble

 

Our problem is not the Islamic radical, but the inherent radicalism of Islam. Islam is a radical religion. It radicalizes those who follow it. Every atrocity we associate with Islamic radicals is already in Islam. The Koran is not the solution to Islamic radicalism, it is the cause. Our enemy is not radicalism, but a hostile civilization bearing grudges and ambitions. We aren’t fighting nihilists or radicals. We are at war with the inheritors of an old empire seeking to reestablish its supremacy not only in the hinterlands of the east, but in the megalopolises of the west.

Daniel Greenfield

21st century American commentator

The Imaginary Islamic Radical, 1-29-15

 

Think of the press as a great keyboard on which the government can play.

Joseph Goebbels

 

On the Christian life

There are three things that spread the Christ life to us: baptism, belief, and that mysterious action which different Christians call by different names—Holy Communion, the Mass, the Lord’s Supper.

 

If you have once accepted Christianity, then some of its main doctrines shall be deliberately held before your mind for some time every day. That is why daily prayers and religious reading and churchgoing are necessary parts of the Christian life. We have to be continually reminded of what we believe. Neither this belief nor any other will automatically remain alive in the mind. It must be fed.

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 or our Deacon Striker.

 

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 today are found on Page 120-122, with the Collect first:

 

The Sunday called Sexagesima, or the

second Sunday before Lent.

The Collect.

 

O

 LORD God, who seest that we put not our trust in any thing that we do; Mercifully grant that by thy power we may be defended against all adversity; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

The Epistle came from the Eleventh Chapter of Saint Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians beginning at the Nineteenth Verse. Paul reminds us salvation, honor and glory come not from what we do or have done, but rather from God.  Paul, who as Saul, had been a super star on his way to being the number one rabbi in the Hebrew nation, he was more learned, more vigorous in following the law, more vocal in all things.  When he “saw the light” and converted, he took that same approach to Christianity.  No one was more in any thing than he.  He had been the best of the worst and the best of the best.  Now he was aware of how short he himself fell.  More importantly, he was keenly aware of the saving perfection of Christ.

 

No one did more than Paul, yet he counseled all to take comfort and pride in God, not themselves.  Do your best and look towards God.

 

 

Y

E suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise. For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face. I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I. Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.

 

The Holy Gospel for today came from the Eighth Chapter of the Gospel of St. Lukebeginning at the Fourth Verse and tells the well known Parable of the Sower, which might be better referred to as the Parable of the Four Soils, for the seeds were all alike.

 

A sower scatters seed on to four different types of soil.

 

  • Hard ground

  • Stony ground

  • Thorny ground

  • Good ground

  •  

Hard ground “by the way side” prevents the seed from sprouting at all, and the seed becomes nothing more than bird food. Stony ground provides enough soil for the seeds to germinate and begin to grow, but because there is “no deepness of earth,” the plants do not take root and are soon withered in the sun. Thorny ground allows the seed to grow, but competing thorns choke the life out of the good plants.  Good ground receives the seed and produces much fruit.

 

Jesus explains the seed is The Word. 

 

Hard ground represents someone so hardened by sin that though he hears he cannot understand the Word.  Thus, Satan can pluck the message away, keeping the heart dull and preventing the Word from making an impression.

 

Stony ground represents those who hear and express delight in The Word, but do not change to live The Word.  When trouble arises, they abandon their faith.

 

Thorny ground represents one who hears and receives The Word, but who does not connect to it and whose heart is full of riches, pleasures, and lusts.  The effort that should by rights given The Word are given to the things of this world and he has no time for The Word.

 

Good ground represents he who hears, understands, and implements The Word.  Thus, The Word can work its wonders in his life and that person gains salvation.

 

The Word is there.  We may hear it.  We may take it in our heart.  The benefit comes only when we take it in our heart and act on it.  At that point, The Word is acting in our lives and salvation is in hand.

 

W

HEN much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way-side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the way-side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.

 

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

Sexagesima

Saint Andrews Anglican Church

8 February 2015, Anno Domini (In the Year of our Lord)

 

The Sunday called Sexagesima, or the

second Sunday before Lent.

The Collect.

 

O

 LORD God, who seest that we put not our trust in any thing that we do; Mercifully grant that by thy power we may be defended against all adversity; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

31In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. 32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. 33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? 34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. 35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. 36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. 37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. 38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours(Mark 4:31-38)

 

These verses, taken in isolation, may not open to us as fully as is made possible by reading the full context in which they occurred.

 

In order to know which direction a stationary train will be moving, we need to see on which end is the locomotive, and which the caboose – merely observing the middle cars alone will not fully enlighten. So we need to read the preceding account to fully grasp the present.

 

1) The Occasion

  1 When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, 2 (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) 3 He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. 

     4 And he must needs go through Samaria. 5 Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. 6 Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well: and it was about the sixth hour

 

2) The Purpose:

7 There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8 (For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)

 

We read these lines as if this meeting occurred by simple chance, but it did not.

 

 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will (Ephesians 1)

 

With God, nothing happens by chance … all is predestinated and foreordained before of God.

 

The last thing this woman expected was to find a Jew man at the well for Jews avoided the Samaritans as they would a leper.

 

3) The Process:

      a – The woman, wanting to avoid the stares and gossip of other more reputable women (for she was one of ill-repute) comes to the well in the heat of the day. It was customary to come to draw water during the cool evening hours, but she comes at noon.

She expects no company. She does not have the least suspicion that great changes are about to happen in her heart and in her life.

9 Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans

 

       b – The intriguing proposition

10 Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.

Do you know to whom you address your inquiry, madam?

 

       c. the furtive response:

11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? 12  Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?

 

Not being a Bible scholar, the woman latches onto her only known Bible knowledge to respond to the Author of the Bible itself.

 

She remembers the account of Jacob. She knows he was the greatest of the ancestors of the Samaritans (or at least believes this to be true).  But her mind and heart is set upon the water located some scores of feet down in a hole in the ground. She has no knowledge of the Water of which Christ speaks. The Fountain of Living Waters is beyond the present vision of this woman, but Jesus draws her closer that she might, at last, see.

 

Christ tickles her curiosity and draws her interst more deeply into His own being:  13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

 

This woman, a castoff of society, has never heard of this beautiful and perpetually satisfying Water.  Christ, the greatest of Fishermen, has carefully set a loving hook in the woman’s heart: He then makes a seemingly unknowing appeal by asking:

 

16 Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come hither.

 

Do you believe that Jesus did not know all about this woman – her life, her sin, her need for salvation?

 

The woman responds with a technical truth, but a spiritual lie:  17 The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her,

 

Jesus knows of all the dirt we sweep under the carpet: He responds: Thou hast well said, I have no husband: 18 For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.

 

The woman has failed in virtue and she knows it, but is surprised that Jesus – a total stranger – also knows it.

 

She is living in open adultery and has the equivalent of five husbands – for to sleep with a man is the same as being united in a marriage relationship.

 

But God condemns this kind of sexual relationship.

 

The Rev S.A. Brooks beautifully describes the need of this woman in these words: The woman at the well, feeling about for light, was led to her own Scriptures, and in those Scriptures to a prophecy—a prophecy of a great Teacher who was to come—the Messias. The coming Teacher, she knew, would solve all her difficulties, and make her way quite clear. It is very beautiful, very comforting, very teaching, to watch this poor, earnest, baffled woman’s soul, gathering itself at last till it centres upon Christ. She was in a great strait; where was the escape? Messias comes; He makes all things right. As the key fits into the lock, as the light matches to the eye, or as sweet music to the ear, so Christ is made for the soul, and the soul is made for Christ. Till nature has that filling it must be incomplete, and life must be restless till it settles on that one resting-place; and this that thirsting, confessing, enquiring mind was finding out, when God took her by the hand and led her, and put it into her heart to feel, “I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when He is come, He will teach us all things.”

 

So the woman relies on the little spiritual and biblical knowledge that she can foster:  19 The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet. 20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

 

Now Jesus draws the hooked fish even closer to the Ark of Life:  21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

 

The woman stills clings to her won limited knowledge of God: she struggles against the hook25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. 26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

 

Now this exchange between Christ and this fallen woman is not only for her own benefit, but also for our own benefit, and the benefit of her village, and for the benefit of countless millions of sinners count in the net of Satan.

 

Look at the impressions the disciples have of this encounter:  27 And upon this came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman: yet no man said, What seekest thou? or, Why talkest thou with her?

 

They did not understand, but they knew Christ well enough not to question His intent. Here He is talking with a woman whose very appearance revealed that she was not a righteous and faithful wife to any man.

 

     d – the Catch:

Knowing Christ changes things. The woman who was embarrassed to come with other women to the well, is now going into the city shouting to all who will listen the greatness of Christ!  The steady love and purpose of Christ has drawn the hesitant fish to safe harbor:28 The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men, 29 Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ? 30 Then they went out of the city, and came unto him

 

The testimony of one, even one of ill repute, can have dramatic results.

 

Sometimes, we are so overcome with joy that we are not hungry for the food of this world. We can only think upon that Bread that comes down from Heaven – the spiritual food of Christ!

 

      e – the Effect!

Now we can read the sermon text with understanding can’t we?

In the mean while his disciples prayed him, saying, Master, eat. 32 But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of. 33 Therefore said the disciples one to another, Hath any man brought him ought to eat? 34 Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. 35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. 36 And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. 37 And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. 38 I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

 

       f –The results of a single soul’s salvation!

 

39 And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did. 40 So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they besought him that he would tarry with them: and he abode there two days. 41 And many more believed because of his own word; 42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

 

So may you believe!

 

Sermon – Rev Jack Arnold

Church of the Faithful Centurion – Descanso, California

Today’s sermon brought the Collect, Epistle and Gospel together and is partly contained in the forewords above. 

 

Consider these words from the Collect:

 

…put not our trust in any thing that we do; Mercifully grant that by thy power we may be defended against all adversity …

 

In the Collect, we tell God we put our trust for eternal life not in our actions, but in His Power.  If we do this, then we must do as He asks us.  For, to make trust in His Power rational, we must follow His Direction. If we do not follow His Direction then we are surely just going be as lost as before we accepted Him into our hearts. It would be foolish to think that we could guide ourselves, when in fact we need Him to guide us. The problem is that often, at least in my case, pride gets in the way of seeing that I/We need to relie on Him for guidance. We need Him as our navigator to guide us along the rocky paths of life, so we don’t crash into the rocks of Sin and Death! We need His directions if we are to proceed upon the path to Heaven.

 

This squares with what Paul tells us, that is salvation, honor and glory come not from what we do or have done, but rather from God.  Therefore, we should turn to Him for guidance and not ourselves. By following His Word that is where the salvation, honor and glory come from. And that is also to whom we should give credit and not us. We havn’t earned the credit, so we should give it to whom it is due, that is to God our father. Nothing that we have done as far as anything good or significant is not from us on our own volition, but from God. He will guide us through all of our lifes trials, if we let him. Paul, who as Saul, had been a super star on his way to being the number one rabbi in the Hebrew nation, he was more learned, more vigorous in following the law, more vocal in all things.  When he “saw the light” and converted, he took that same approach to Christianity.  No one was more in any thing than he.  He had been the best of the worst and the best of the best.  Now he was keenly aware of how short he himself fell.  But even more importantly, he was keenly aware of the saving perfection of Christ. Because he had been at rock bottom, he was able to recover, which then brought him to his best, so that he was aware of the saving power of Christ. From this he could tell us of the experience of the power of God first hand, using his life as an example of that. He told us these things not to glory himself, but to show the glory and honor that comes from on high, from following His Word. He wanted to highlight God’s saving power and Grace, which had helped him, and show us how it can help us as well. He wanted us, other Christians to learn from his example and to do their best to follow Him. Thus he counseled all to take comfort and pride in God, not themselves.  Do your best and look towards God.

 

This brings us right in to the well known Parable of the Sower, which might be better referred to as the Parable of the Four Soils, for the seeds were all alike. 

 

Like the seed sown by the sower, The Word is spread throughout the world for all to hear and act on:

 

  • Yet, some will not even hear The Word (Hard ground);

  • Others will hear, act quickly and abandon God’s help at the first sign of adversity (Stony ground);

  • Still others will hear The Word, but The Word is overtaken by the “pleasures” of this world and is choked out by them.  Like the line from the Bible, where your money is, that is your worldly effort, there is the evidence of your heart.  The temptation of this world is great, the reward from God should be greater, but you have to look long term;

  • Finally we come to those who accept and act on The Word, like the one seed planted growing into a great plant bearing its fruit, the rewards are manifold, though the effort is also great, the end reward far greater.  For the seed to grow to full fruition and glory, with its manifold blessings, it must have the ground prepared, carefully tended against encroachment of the evil weeds, it must be continually watered by the life blood of those around it.  There is much effort required on our part, but the ultimate reward is so much greater.

 

While we are on the subject, consider the issue of weeding.  Is this not part of the reason for the Church, that is to say the body of believers, to exist.  We cannot often pull our own weeds, but we can help others and they can help us. We cannot pull our weeds alone, but with help, we can remove them one by one. Christianity is not a religion of hermits; it is a social religion where we can help each other.  This is why it is best that believers attend a Bible believing Church, where they can get valuable friendship and from that friendship, spiritual mentoring for their day to day lives.

 

So, think about this, we need to understand eternal life and indeed on a shorter term, happiness in our life here, comes not from our self-directed actions, but those of God and our action following His direction. If we follow our self-directed actions, we will find death and misery awaiting us. However, if we put our trust in Him and follow His commands, we will “live long and prosper” to quote Spock. Do your best and look towards God for the Light to illuminate your path.  If you prepare your heart, as the farmer prepares the field, root out the forces of this world as the farmer roots out weeds, cultivate the good given by God, water your heart with His Water, your life will be manifold.

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:

 

Trust in the Lord

Sexagesima Sunday

February 8, 2015

 

In the collect for this morning we told God we put not our trust in anything we do. To many people that seems odd. Our individualistic and rebellious culture tells us to reject authority and tradition, and trust our instincts and ideas. Only then, we are told, can we live “authentic” lives.  The Bible presents a very different view[1].  It tells us we are not as wise as we think we are.  It tells us we are prone to confuse good and evil.  We even intentionally distort them.  According to the Bible, we are not to trust in ourselves, we are to: 

 

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.  Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil.  It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones (Prov. 3:5-7)

 

Of course the collect refers primarily to our relationship with God. It reminds us that it is not our good works which secure our relationship with Him. That relationship is secured by his works not ours. We all know only God can make us right with Him because we know we are sinners. We often try to hide this fact even from ourselves.  But in the deep recesses of our being we all realize that we have “left undone those things which we ought to have done; and we have done those things which we ought not to have done.”  And this is not due to an occasional slip.  It is the natural inclination of our hearts. Nor are our failures merely accidents or mistakes. Sometimes they may be, but often they are intentional choices on our part.

 

We realize immediately that such offenses cause a disruption in our relationship with God. For, if God truly is holy and righteous and good, and, if His laws are truly holy and righteous and good, then He must deal with those who break His laws as transgressors rather than friends. Transgressors of human laws must pay for their crimes. Should we not then expect that those who transgress God’s laws must also pay for their crimes?

 

Many people believe they can pay for their sins against God by doing good works. Somehow they hope the good things they do will cancel the bad things they do, like cancellation in a mathematical fraction. According to Jesus this will not work. In Matthew 7:22-23, referring to the day when all will give an account to God for their sins, He says, “Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? And in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess to them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.”

 

The Apostle Paul makes a similar point in Philippians 3. He says, “if any man thinketh that he has whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more.” Paul is saying that if anyone thinks he he should be able to have peace with God through his good works it is Paul. In verses five and six he lists some of his good works. He then goes on to say he counts all these things as loss. He says he wants to be found in Christ Jesus not having his own righteousness based on good things he has done, but “the righteousness which is of God by faith.”

 

The reason it is impossible for us to repair our relationship with God through our works is that our sins earn God’s wrath.  “The wages of sin is death.” So anyone trusting in his own good works to make him right with God and to get him into Heaven will be severely disappointed. This is why we put not our trust in any thing that we do.  Think of it this way, we can never earn forgiveness. We can’t earn the forgiveness of another person, and we can’t earn the forgiveness of God. Forgiveness is given, not earned. It is a gift, not a reward.

 

Yet, this morning’s Scripture readings seem to be all about the things we do. Paul talks about his abundant labours in the service of Christ. In addition to his suffering, he says he has the daily care of all the churches.  He is weak when they are weak.  He is offended, or, hurt, when they on hurt.  He feels and suffers with them.

 

Luke 8, the Parable of the Sower, seems to say a lot about what we do.  It presents us as several different kinds of soils receiving the good seed of the Gospel of Christ. There is an implication here that we are to be the good soil. And as the good soil, we are to bear fruit an hundredfold. Bringing forth fruit is something we do. Receiving the world in faith is something we do.  Keeping the word is something we do.  Even patience is something we do.

 

So it appears that, while we do not put confidence in any thing we do to secure forgiveness of sins or reconciliation with God, we are also called to do something. We are not to sit idle and expect God to carry us to heaven.

 

Many people make the mistake of thinking that, since they can’t do anything to earn Heaven, they don’t have to try to live a Godly, righteous, and sober life.  All they have to do is believe a few historical facts about Jesus, and God will take them to heaven, regardless of the kind of life they live on earth.

 

This way of thinking reveals its own fatal flaw. The person who thinks like this wants Heaven, but not God.  He wants the pleasures of sin in this life, and the pleasures of Heaven in the next. He does not desire to know and love God. Such a person, if he were to find himself in Heaven, would feel terribly uncomfortable and terribly out of place. For the real pleasures of Heaven are God. Other things won’t mean much there. Mansions, streets of gold, jewels, and material things will be as nothing compared to seeing God face to face, and basking in his love forever. Worship, the organized, unified adoration of God will be the chief occupation in Heaven. The person who finds no joy in this on earth, will find no joy in it in Heaven. It will be a burden to him there.  It will be drudgery.

 

Not so to God’s people. It will be joy to us. It will be the answer to all our prayers. Naturally, then, we want to be about Heavenly things here and now. So we devote ourselves to the practice, the habit, the perpetual attitude of prayer. We devote ourselves to the Scriptures. We read them. We learn them. We memorize them. More than this, we allow them to shape our minds. Their thoughts become our thoughts. Their understanding of life becomes our understanding. Their attitudes, their views, their values, their morals, become ours. And we begin to think and live Biblically. We do Biblical things, like love our neighbors, refrain from evil, and do good. We love justice, truth. We become peacemakers instead of the strife makers. And, of course we worship God.  We worship Him at home, at work, at the lake and in the mountains.  Most of all, we worship Him with His people in the organised services of His Church.  We do these things because God loves us. We do them because Christ died for our sins. We do them because we are forgiven as a gift by the grace of God. We don’t do them to earn salvation. We do them because salvation has been given to us as a free gift through Christ our Saviour.

+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. 

 

Sexagesima Sunday

Hearing the Word

8 February 2015

2 Cor 11:19  •  Luke:8:4-15

 

The Collect.

 

O

 LORD God, who seest that we put not our trust in any thing that we do; Mercifully grant that by thy power we may be defended against all adversity; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

How are we to listen to the Word of God ?   In the parable of the sower we find some excellent rules and cautions for hearing the Word.   When Christ spoke the parable to the crowds, his disciples wanted to know the true meaning of the story.  In Verse 10 of the Gospel reading Christ tells the disciples that they have been given the knowledge to understand the mysteries of the kingdom of God and importantly he explains that there were others who even seeing and hearing the story would not understand. 

 

Now Christ goes into detail about the sower and the seed.   The sower is Christ (implied) and the seed is the Word of God.   Now what are the other elements?

 

  1. The heart of man is the soil to the seed of God’s word.   The soil cannot bring forth anything of value if it does not have the seed; and the seed cannot reproduce if it does not have the soil.

 

  1. The seed will be successful depending on the nature and temper of the soil (the heart).

 

  1. The devil is a spiteful and wily enemy, it is his business to hinder us from getting any good from the Word of God.   He takes the Word out of the hearts of careless listeners, in case they should believe and be saved. (v.12)

 

  1. If we hear the Word of God in a casual manner the hearer can become contemptuous towards the Word.   If a people hear the Word but shut their ears to it; in effect is trampled or as verse 5 depicts it, trodden down.  In a sense this is a complete despising of the Word.

 

  1. Now we come to those who are somewhat impressed by what they hear in the Word, but they are not really committed, they are not very deep or durable.  So in times of trial, whether great or small, these hearers drop away.  They stop believing because of the temptation they soon give up and wither away, no longer professing their faith.

 

  1. The pleasures of this life can be compared to the dangerous nature of thorns interspersed in a seed bed.   There are so many distractions that can lure one away from the Word.  Riches, pleasures, life of ease and anything else that can entangle and ensnare one; keeping them from the Word of God.  The delights of sense may ruin the soul, even lawful delights, indulged, and too much delighted in may ruin the soul.[2]

 

  1. The good ground grows good fruit.  This is an honest and good heart, one that is willing to receive instruction and correction.  This is a heart that is free from sinful pollution and firmly set upon the foundation of God.  An honest and good heart, hearing the Word, understands it (with the help of the Holy Spirit), receives it and keeps it.   Now where the Word is kept the fruit of the Word is brought forth with patience.   What patience ?  Patience to suffer tribulation and persecution, which may arise because one believes the Word.   And most importantly, this patience must continue unto the end, remembering that God does not give us more than we can endure.

 

  1. In conclusion we need to be careful how we hear the Word.   In being careful of those things that can and will hinder us from profiting from the Word we hear.   We need to ask for help from God in watching over our hearts in hearing and take care lest they betray us.   We must take care to not listen to the Word in a mindless manner, in case we listen to the Word and then not take the Word into our hearts to guide us.   In other words we need to be sober about what God has given us to learn.   We must listen to the Word, feed upon the Word and inwardly digest the Word for our comfort and good.

 

Dear ones, does God speak to you today?  Do you need to come to his Son Jesus to find the Way, the Truth and the Life?   Come to Jesus, he is waiting for you.

 

Let us pray:

 

O

 ALMIGHTY God, the supreme Governor of all things, whose power no creature is able to resist, to whom it belongeth justly to punish sinners, and to be merciful to those who truly repent; Save and deliver us, we humbly beseech thee, from the hands of our enemies; that we, being armed with thy defence, may be preserved evermore from all perils, to glorify thee, who art the only giver of all victory; through the merits of thy Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 

O

 GOD, whose nature and property is ever to have mercy and to forgive; Receive our humble petitions; and though we be tied and bound with the chain of our sins, yet let the pitifulness of thy great mercy loose us; for the honour of Jesus Christ, our Mediator and Advocate. Amen.

 

T

he Lord bless us, and keep us. The Lord make His face to shine upon us, and be gracious unto us.   The Lord lift up His countenance upon us, and give us peace, both now and evermore. Amen.

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.

 

Sexagesima

 

Please read Daniel 3:8-26:

 

Daniel 3:8-26 (KJV)

8    Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews.

9   They spake and said to the king Nebuchadnezzar, O king, live for ever.

10 Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image:

11 And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

12 There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

13 Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king.

14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up?

15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?

16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter.

17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.

18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

19 Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.

20 And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace.

21 Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

22 Therefore because the king’s commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flames of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace.

24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king.

25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire.

 

Daniel’s three friends, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah (a.k.a. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego) would not worship the great statue that Nebuchadnezzar had erected on the Plain of Dura. Upon hearing that they had not done so, he called on the men to worship the image as his other officials had done. They, however, continued steadfast in their faithfulness to the LORD and refused the king’s command. Angered by their resistance, the king threatened them saying, but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace, and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands (v.15)? Undeterred, the men responded, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up (vv.16-18).

 

We know God did indeed deliver them from the effects of the furnace much to the amazement of Nebuchadnezzar and his officials. The power of God is greater than any other in either the heavens, or on the earth. That should be of great comfort to us for even though God may permit us to go through difficult times, we know that he is with us. Consider the words of the 23rd Psalm: The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want… Yea though I walk through valley and shadow of death, thou are with me. It was likely that Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah had heard those words before, but their faithfulness in keeping the commandments of God remained for them first and foremost. The Second Commandment clearly rejects all forms of idolatry. And so, when faced with either obeying the pronouncements of an earthly ruler, or the commandments of the one true and living God, there was no question with whom they would side.

 

Rev. Matthew Henry once wrote concerning this event by saying, “The worshippers of false gods are not wont to mind charges in settings up images and worshipping them. Strong convictions often came short of a sound conversion. Many in a pang have owned the absurdity and dangerousness of sin, and yet have gone on in it.” In other words, those who worship such things are often oblivious to the sound doctrines of God. Even Christians are not immune from idolatry. Any image, artifact (relic), icon, or statue which is worshipped and venerated is just as devoid of scriptural acceptance as any image or idol of pagan antiquity. Godly obedience requires us to be stalwart and implacable in our adherence to our Lord’s commandments.

 

Now the Devil is smooth in his deception. CS Lewis once expressed the nature of seductive evil in this way in his Screwtape Letters: “If they must be Christians let them at least be Christians with a difference. Substitute for the faith itself some Fashion with a Christian colouring…” Satan has always been about corrupting the faith all the while giving his “amendments” a good daubing of untempered mortar, or a “whitewashing”, so that those who have fallen under his influence will not question his changes to the very word and commandments of God.

 

Rev EM Bounds noted, “The Devil does a big business on earth. He is a prince and a leader. Men and devils are his agents. The elements of nature are often corrupted by him from their beneficial purposes and forced to destroy. He is busy tempting men to do evil… By his schemes, sin seems to lose its sinfulness, the world is clothed with double charms, and self is given twice the force. He turns faith into fanaticism and love into hate. A spiritual character can work through other agencies or directly on the human spirit. Satan infuses thoughts and makes suggestions, and he does it so deftly that we do not know their origin.” Think of how Satan got Nebuchadnezzar to justify in his mind the setting up of that statue on the plain of Dura. Think about how he organized the worship and the music. It is therefore quite understandable that such a powerful man as Nebuchadnezzar was induces to believe that he himself was the originator and author of that pious fraud which he had set up at Dura. Without a doubt, Satan took the vision which the king had received from God (Daniel 2) and interpreted by Daniel, and turned it into an opportunity for idolatry. How mere thoughts and dreams can be fashioned by the evil one into blasphemy and degradation.

 

Rev. Dr. Merrill Unger once noted, “Satan and evil spirits are untiring and ceaseless in their prosecution of enterprises of deception and wickedness… [they] imperil man’s well-being by subjecting him to temptation… [Satan] not only takes away the good seed, but sows the tares. Assuredly this power of temptation is possessed by Satan’s many subordinate evil spirits, through whose instrumentality he accomplishes his nefarious purposes.”

 

Still, it is very hard for many Christians to come to grips with the notion that pure personal evil exists, and that he hates mankind because we are made in God’s image. They live their lives in the vain hope that evil is random and temporary. They are not willing to admit that evil is real, personal and relentless for that is precisely what it is. Another thing that these naive souls cannot— or will not— grasp is the scope of personal evil. It is GLOBAL, that is, it is everywhere. You cannot leave this area or region and go to any other and not find personal evil present. Ergo, we are literally surrounded by personal evil on an ever-present basis. As that is the case, the good Christian soul will put on the whole armour of God in their efforts to resist personal evil (Ephesians 6:10-18). There is no other armour that is suitable to that task. Earthly methods are impotent against our “ancient foe” on account of his supernatural nature. I often hear the foolish and the unlearned say that they can, “bind the devil.” We can resist him but we cannot bind what we have no power over. The only reason we might have any success against the powers of darkness has to do with the power of the Holy Spirit of God being present with us and within us. The willful nature of mankind has no power in and of himself to accomplish such a feat. We must trust on that strong arm from above to drive out the forces of evil and only in the name of Jesus Christ, but with one proviso: that we believe on him as our Saviour and Lord.

 

Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah understood what the LORD wanted them to do in the face of this deception. They knew the commandments of God were designed to set forth the proper course of conduct for the faithful even as those around them are falling into Satan’s traps. The word of God is the truth. It is that moral compass which points us away from evil and keeps us squarely on the road to God’s eternal kingdom.

 

Our Lord commanded us to, Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (St. Matthew 7:13-14). And our Lord also said, No man can serve two masters: for he will hate the one, and love the other… (St. Matthew 6:24a). The Devil will seek to divert us from the true path of Christ into the broad way that leads to Antichrist. The statue at Dura was just ersatz version of God. It was the insinuated musings of the father of lies who was attempting to turn even God’s people into his servants via a false or pretended worship of the divine.

 

Are there Plains of Dura in your life? Are there golden idols which look impressive and have the appearance of deity that you bow before? Are there things that shine for you in this life other than the living God? Do you worship mammon? Do you venerate people or institutions as one would venerate the Lord of all life? Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah were in positions of power and influence within the court of Nebuchadnezzar. They along with Daniel were his favorite advisors. But even their earthly positions did not matter when it came to being obedient to God rather than some temporal ruler. Are you ready to stand for God’s word written against the temporal rulers in this life? Are you seeking to do the will of our Lord in opposition to all else? May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ keep you in all extremity so that you might stand, and having done all to stand in these evil days.

 

Let us pray,

 

L

ORD, deliver us from all false doctrine, all idolatry and all deception of the evil one; that we might better serve thee in this life, so that at the last we might be received into thine everlasting kingdom; for this we ask in the name of our Lord and Saviour, even Jesus Christ. 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.

 

Sadness

Maggie is a very young lady who was expecting a baby.  Sadly, the baby did not make it.  She and her family need your prayers for the Holy Ghost to comfort and strengthen both her and themselves.

 

Birthday

Dru Arnold celebrated her 60th Birthday on 2 February 2015.  For the record, she did see her shadow, thus we are faced with six more weeks of winter.  On the other hand, winter here can be tough at 72°F.

 

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. 

 

Departed

Tabitha a devout Christian woman passed away the week of 26 January 2015. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for comfort and strength for the family and friends she leaves behind.

 

Harriet Elrod who passed away the week of 4 January 2015. Harriet was a godly teacher and a good friend of Rev Bryan Dabney. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for comfort and strength for those she leaves behind.

 

Pat Cooney passed away early the morning of 8 January 2015 after an extended illnesss, a long time member of the California Air National Guard, he will be missed by friends and family alike.  Please give thanks for his time here on earth and pray for comfort and strength for those he leaves behind, in particular his wife Donna.

 

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

Sonnie, a 77 year old woman, lives alone and is affected by severe pneumonia and could use some help to care for her in her home. Please pray for a complete recovery and for God to send an angel of mercy to tend to her needs.

 

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 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

Sarah, wife of Rev Geordie (AOC – UK), has been treating for ovarian cancer.  Alas the cancer is spreading causing fluid on the lungs, which is discomforting to say the least.  There is a hope this side effect can be stopped by further chemotherapy; however, the last time this particular drug was tried it sent her into potentially life threatening anaphylactic shock.  Please pray for guidance for the medical personnel treating Sarah, 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.  Give thanks for the great courage and trust in God made manifest in Sarah and Geordie.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

Amy is scheduled for surgery on 27 January 2015, for a brain tumor. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome.  Pray also that Amy and her family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.

 

Jeff has been undergoing surgery, chemo and radiation since October for pancreatitis and Pancreatic cancer. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome.  Pray also that Jeff, his wife and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.

 

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

Olivia, age7, has been diagnosed with Stage 3 Lymphoma. The prognosis is good at this time, please 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 Olivia and her family, as well as physical strength.

 

Eli has some mental issues and has lost his way.  He was admitted to the hospital for a 72 hour Psychological evaluation to get a proper diagnosis and medications. He has been in isolation and even refused to see his brother Carl.  Please give thanks for Eli cooperating with the evaluation, pray he will benefit from the treatment and return to the Lord and his family.

 

Karen got out of the hospital after dehydration and double pneumonia.  Her family is taking care of her.  Please pray for strength, trust and healing.

 

Nancy has been diagnosed with Schizophrenia and has quit taking her medications causing instability and difficulty in her family.  Please pray the Lord will help the doctors find the right medications and she will take them and return her to mental and emotional stability.

 

Paul has been hospitalized recently several time because of persistent high fevers. He is being tested and checked by physicians and seems to have a slight scoliosis, a node and Schuermann’s disease.  Please pray it will be discovered how to treat these problems and healing will begin so he will be inspired to continue his education.

 

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.  Garth is feeling a bit better, but the treatment is tiring.  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, as well as physical strength.

 

Dear Prayer Partners,

I wanted to let you know that I have had my seventh chemo-therapy treatment. There is to be one more at the end of the month. The tumour in my abdomen is now roughly 2/5’s of what it was when we began and is described as “stable”. But I have also learned this week from the oncologist that even though the tumour is still some 7.5 cms by 5.3 cms, the recent CAT scan we did does not tell them exactly what they are looking at. That is to say what is left of the tumour may, in fact, no longer be cancerous. After the eighth chemo treatment, they will do what is called a PET scan, which will tell them whether or not cancer is still present. At that point, a decision will be made whether or not to undergo a week of radiation therapy as well, to conclude the treatment and help prevent the cancer from returning. I have come through this last treatment with a minimum of side-effects, for which I am very grateful.

 

Once again, I want to express my thanks for everyone’s continuing, faithful prayers and to Almighty God for His grace, mercy, love, peace, and strength.  Garth Neel

 

Garth is the AOC Bishop of Canada with oversight of South America and a really both good and nice fellow. 

 

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.

 

Atina has been diagnosed with skin cancer, which turned out to be a melanoma. A routine CT scan found a 9mm (3/8 inch) lesion in her left lung.  The melanoma appears to be spreading; they need to remove the offending tissue and test the sample.  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.   Atina’s faith is being tested, she has difficulty in praying and accepting the outcome, she wants what she wants and is perplexed about her faith in Jesus.  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.

 

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, retired 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 Wilson’s breathing seems to be under control at present, he is getting oxygen, which is a huge blessing for which he is grateful.  He has continuous body wide pain similar to arthritis gone wrong for which he needs some kind of relief so he can rest.  Pray for God’s guidance for the doctors and medical people treating him that they might figure out a way to treat him that will work and not adversely affect other parts of his body, particularly his oxygenation levels, kidney and liver function.  Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mark, as well as for his family.

 

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

Bernie Coogan had a stroke near Christmas time.  He is still in a stroke center and expects to be there about another week, before being discharged to a rehab facility.  Bernie is doing pretty well, his speech is a bit slurred, but his mind is clear.  He is still Bernie.  Bernie, his wife JoAnn and their family would appreciate your prayers for a full and rapid recovery as they maintain full trust in the Lord.

 

Hap Arnold has a Urinary Tract Infection, please pray the antibiotics will take effect and his temperature will break and return to normal.

 

Scott Winters underwent apparently successful ligament replacement surgery on his knee on 8 January 2015, however he contracted an infection somehow which is causing him great difficulty.  Please give thanks for the successful surgery and pray the infection will be overcome.

 

Amy has melanoma in her lungs, liver and kidneys; they have found a treatment for her that has a high success rate however the side effects are debilitating. Please pray she will be able to tolerate the side effects and the treatment is successful.  Amy has full trust in the Lord, but would still appreciate your prayers.

 

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.

 

 

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

Kym (43) has various hip problems which seems to be related to osteoarthritis.  And, her mother Ruth is in the early stages of dementia.  Pray for guidance for those treating both of them, as well as patience and trust in the Lord for both of them.

 

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

Arch Crittenden has Multiple Myeloma (cancer cells in bone marrow); without this treatment life expectancy is one to two years.  As long as he can tolerate the daily oral Revlimid treatments, it seems he can carry on.  Arch is not worried about the weight loss side effects, he says he planned ahead for that; the hair loss does have him concerned as most of that has already left.   There is very good news, he had X-Rays this week and no holes in his bones. And he can still travel about and visit his family!  This is super, please join Arch and family in giving thanks.  Arch and his lovely wife Kathy ask that you pray for their trust in God to remain strong and for a good outcome.

 

Aleyne Bergman had a pacemaker installed on 26 January 2015. Please give thanks for the medical team paying attention, doing their best and for the good outcome.  Pray also that Aleyne and her husband Ron, as well as the rest of her family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.  Please pray also for a complete and rapid recovery for her.

 

Losana who has Dengue Fever. Losana was in the hospital but now home recovering and it will take some time. Your prayers will be appreciated

 

Dick Gray has a Merkle Cell carcinoma just under his sternum carcinoma which is considered a stage four carcinoma since it has ‘metastasized’.  After much treatment and hospitalization the main site is less than half the size and there are no new tumors.  He continues the fight. Please give thanks for the good results so far!  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.

 

Jenny, wife of Adam, mother of two, (niece of Marianne Lane) had difficulty breathing the night of 22 January 2015.  Adam brought her to the hospital.   After considerable thought and testing, they found a growth thought to be scar tissue from intubation when she was an infant.  On 28 January 2015, they preformed a mechanical expansion to allow her to breathe which was a success.  Please give thanks for the great result and pray for a full recovery and that the opening will stay clear.

 

Sam had surgery on his entire large intestine that had become infected. At the time of the operation he was just hours away from a complete organ shutdown. He had had turmoil in his life over the years. Sam is now in the ICU and his Minister visited him and explained to him God had given him another chance for him to make things right with his Lord. Pray for his good health and his spiritual life with Jesus.

 

Marv Rogge had successful heart valve replacement surgery on or about 20 December 2014.  Other than a desire to chew his food way too much, Marv is doing great, up and about.   Please join Marv, his lovely wife Marian and the rest of the family in giving thanks to God for the great result.  Pray for a full and complete recovery.

 

Ian had surgery to remove excess skin rendered a nuisance by controlled lost of 200 pounds.  Please give thanks for the successful result and for those treating him to have paid attention and done their very best on the lengthy surgery, taking the best possible care of him.  Please pray for his continued recovery and strength for his Mother who will be in charge of his after care.

 

Jenniffer had surgery for breast cancer on 15 October 2014, which seemingly went well; please give thanks for that.  She has had other complications which preclude her from making a full recovery in particular the drugs are making her terribly sick; please pray those will be overcome.  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.

 

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.

 

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, as she underwent treatment.  Please pray she will stay free of the cancer in the future.

 

Jim Thornell (Jet) was hospitalized with five stomach ulcers, they were treated with a Esophageal scope and then they did a colonoscopy. Colon is great; clean no worries!  More work coming on the ulcers and a bit of a diet change. We will work on the ulcers and make some diet changes. Please give thanks for the great result and also for the strength, guidance and peace of mind our Lord gave Jet and his wife Mary, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, as he underwent treatment.  Please pray he will heal quickly.

 

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 has met with the oncologist’s and reviewed the CAT scan. Good News! The tumor has been reduced in size—it was down to one half the size that it was in September and there was no indication of a new tumor in the chest area. Dick wanted the Prayer Partners to know and join him in thankfulness to our Lord. 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

Anne is unemployed and just interviewed for a position.  Please pray she will be employed, if not at this position then that this interview will lead to better prospects.  Pray for her ot be encouraged and strengthened by the Holy Ghost.

 

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.

 

God’s Strength and Peace of Soul

Tommy Dunning is facing his first Christmas following the death of his only son to cancer.  Please pray he can concentrate his heart on what he had and will have in his son through God.

 

Guidance

Debbie has family problems that must be dealt with and she asks God’s guidance in making the correct decisions and how to stand.

 

Edward (45) had the opportunity to meet with a Christian during the conversation she discovered Edward had some background about God but thought He was not relevant to this day.  Edward asked many questions about the Bible and was surprised at the answers and continued to ask questions. They both went their separate ways and the Christian told Edward that she would pray for him. Will you join in prayer for Edward, please?

 

Kathy is experiencing severe anxiety and panic attacks. Please pray she can let the Lord calm and direct her in the best path to take to help alleviate these problems.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

Rev. Igor Djurcik leader of Anglican Orthodox Church in Serbia asks us to pray for his students. He has excellent young people in Belgrade who are having services and classes on the Bible.

 

Fiji

Savusavu Fiji Islands is establishing a new Anglican Orthodox Church congregation Rev. Jack Andrew and members from the AOC in Labasa were with them for the weekend for this special time for our Church in Fiji. Pray that our Lord will be with the members in Savusavu as they bring others to his house.

 

Philippines

Please pray a Minister will be found who would like to serve in Tabuk, in the Philippine Islands.  The Anglican Orthodox Church has an established Church there and in the surrounding areas and need a Shepherd to lead the flock.

 

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, had to retire as he was so pressed by the duties of a primary care giver, in addition to all the worries of this world.  Pray for trust in God for each member of the parish and for them to find economic relief.

 

Armed Forces & Contractors


Kristyna Thomas (Fort Bragg), 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.

 

Nathan had successful surgery on 4 August 2014, to remove a tumor near his heart; then underwent chemotherapy. During a visit on 2 December 2014, the PET Scan found no evidence of cancer.  Nathan and his family thank God for the great result, the medical team for paying attention and doing their best and you for your prayers.

 

Various Special Requests

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!

 

Thanksgiving

Bishop Jerry and his lovely wife Debbie give thanks for safe travel to and from Atlanta last week.

 

Kristyna Thomas gives thanks for a successful and safe graduation from Boot Camp at Fort Bragg, as do all the Thomas family and her many friends.  She is off to Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic School now!

 

Hap Arnold gives thanks for recovery from his Seattle illness.

 

What is Sexagesima?

Sexagesima, or, in full, Sexagesima Sunday, is the name for the second Sunday before Ash Wednesday in the Catholic (Universal or Whole) Church Calendar.

 

The name “Sexagesima” is derived from the Latin sexagesimus, meaning “sixtieth,” and appears to be a back-formation of Quinquagesima, the term formerly used to denote the last Sunday before Lent (the latter name alluding to the fact that there are fifty days between that Sunday and Easter, if one counts both days themselves in the total). Through the same process, the Sunday before Sexagesima Sunday is known as Septuagesima Sunday, and marks the start of the Pre-Lenten Season, which eventually became the time for carnival celebrations throughout Europe, this custom being later exported to places settled and/or colonized by Europeans. While Quinquagesima (50th day) is mathematically correct (allowing for the inclusive counting), Sexagesima and Septuagesima are only approximations (the exact number of days is 57 and 64 respectively). The earliest Sexagesima can occur is January 25 and the latest is February 28 (or February 29 in a leap year).

 

The 17-day period beginning on Septuagesima Sunday spanning Sexuagesima and Quinquagesima Sundays was intended to be observed as a preparation for the season of Lent, which is itself a period of spiritual preparation (for Easter). In many countries, however, Septuagesima Sunday marks the start of the carnival season, culminating on Shrove Tuesday, more commonly known as Mardi Gras.

 

The near future, as well as Next Sunday

15 February 2015 – Quinquagesima – 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

 

18 February 2015 – Ash Wednesday – Evening Prayer – Service start time 1800 (6:00 pm); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 1745 (5:45 pm); Time 1800 (6:00 pm); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

 

22 February 2015 – First Sunday in Lent – 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

 

1 March 2015 – Second Sunday in Lent – 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

 

8 March 2015 – Third Sunday in Lent – Morning Prayer – DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS IN THE USA – SPRING FORWARD OR BE LATE – 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

 

15 March 2015 – Fourth Sunday in Lent – 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

 

22 March 2015 – Passion Sunday – Fourth Sunday in Lent – 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

 

29 March 2015 – Palm Sunday -– 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

 

2 April 2015 – Maunday Thursday – Evening Prayer – Service start time 1800 (6:00 pm); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 1745 (5:45 pm); Time 1800 (6:00 pm); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

 

3 April 2015 – Good Friday – Evening Prayer – Service start time 1800 (6:00 pm); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 1745 (5:45 pm); Time 1800 (6:00 pm); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

 

5 April 2015 – Easter Sunday – Holy Communion – SONRISE SERVICEService 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

 

 



[1]One of Scriptures recurrent themes; we constantly want to justify doing what we want to do rather than listening to God and doing what He wants us to do.  Over and over; from Adam to us.  It is the never ending story!

[2]Matthew Henry: Commentary on the Bible: The Gospel according to Luke

By |2015-02-09T15:22:59+00:00February 9th, 2015|AOC Sunday Report|Comments Off on 150208AOC Sunday Report

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