150712 AOC Sunday Report

Anglican Orthodox Church

Worldwide Communion

Sixth Sunday after Trinity

Sunday Report

 

 

 

Today we celebrated the Sixth Sunday after Trinity Sunday. 

 

On Point

Someone asked, where do the quotes come from?  The answer is from the people who uttered them.  But, how did you find them?  Oh, that.  Some from Bishop Jerry, many from Rev Bryan Dabney, a few from other places, some from Rev Geordie Menzies-Grierson, but overall mostly from Bryan.  He always has some great ones to share.  On to the On Point quotes –

 

And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.

I Kings 18:21

 

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

Romans 8:26

 

Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses.

Alphonse Karr

 

I had motives for not wanting the world to have a meaning; consequently assumed that it had none, and was able without any difficulty to find gratifying reasons for this assumption. …

 

… Most ignorance is vincible ignorance. We don’t know because we don’t want to know. It is our will that decides how and upon what subjects we shall use our intelligence. . . . Those who detect no meaning in the world generally do so because for one reason or another it suits their books that the world should be meaningless. . . . We objected to the morality because it interfered with our sexual freedom.

Aldus Huxley

Ends and Means (p. 270 & 273)

 

Patriotism is as much a virtue as justice, and is as necessary for the support of societies as natural affection is for the support of families.

Benjamin Rush

letter to His Fellow Countrymen: On Patriotism, 1773

 

I don’t believe in God, so He does not exist?

Those Divine demands which sound to our natural ears most like those of a despot and least like those of a lover, in fact marshal us where we should want to go if we knew what we wanted. He demands our worship, our obedience, our prostration. Do we suppose that they can do Him any good, or fear, like the chorus in Milton, that human irreverence can bring about ‘His glory’s diminution’? A man can no more diminish God’s glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word ‘darkness’ on the walls of his cell. But God wills our good, and our good is to love Him (with that responsive love proper to creatures) and to love Him we must know Him: and if we know Him, we shall in fact fall on our faces. If we do not, that only shows that what we are trying to love is not yet God— though it may be the nearest approximation to God which our thought and fantasy can attain. Yet the call is not only to prostration and awe; it is to a reflection of the Divine life, a creaturely participation in the Divine attributes which is far beyond our present desires. We are bidden to ‘put on Christ’, to become like God. That is, whether we like it or not, God intends to give us what we need, not what we now think we want. Once more, we are embarrassed by the intolerable compliment, by too much love, not too little.

Jack Lewis

The Problem of Pain

 

Death

What sort of a lover am I to think so much about my affliction and so much less about hers? Even the insane call, ‘Come back,’ is all for my own sake. I never even raised the question whether such a return, if it were possible, would be good for her. I want her back as an ingredient in the restoration of my past. Could I have wished her anything worse? Having got once through death, to come back and then, at some later date, have all her dying to do over again? They call Stephen the first martyr. Hadn’t Lazarus the rawer deal?

Jack Lewis

A Grief Observed

 

The best we can do is the best we can do.

John P. Buentello

 

We live only in the present, we cannot get to the future and the past will never come again.

Never, in peace or war, commit your virtue or your happiness to the future. Happy work is best done by the man who takes his long-term plans somewhat lightly and works from moment to moment “as to the Lord.” It is only our daily bread that we are encouraged to ask for. The present is the only time in which any duty can be done or any grace received.

Jack Lewis

The Weight of Glory

 

Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live? Or hath God assayed to go and take him a nation from the midst of another nation, by temptations, by signs, and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes?

Deuteronomy 4:33-34

 

The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate.

Psalm 34:22

 

Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God.

Isaiah 44:6

 

Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you! for so did their fathers to the false prophets.

St. Luke 6:26

 

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

St. John 8:36

 

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.

I Corinthians 3:19-20

 

Every morning the light of God shines upon his children. But in order to enjoy the light of God’s countenance, the soul must turn to God and trust him to let his light shine upon it.

Andrew Murray

19^th and 29^th century Reformed Christian missionary and author

God’s Best Secrets, p. 80

 

When days of darkness come upon us, let us not count it a strange thing. Rather let us remember that lessons are learned on such days which would never have been learned in sunshine.

JC  Ryle

19^th century Anglican bishop and author

Holiness, p. 123

 

Politics is the most pervasive means for mobilizing such anti-social forces as theft, coercion, killing, deceit, parasitism, torture, lying, conflict, inter-group hatred, wars, and insistence upon obedience to authority enforced by violence. The state’s principal purpose involves forcibly taking property from owners and giving it to others, a practice that includes imposing costs on those who have not chosen to bear them. This system is inherently at war with the self-directed nature of life itself: forcing people to act as they do not choose to act, and forcibly restraining them from pursuing ends they do value. As history reminds us – and as we are discovering for ourselves – such behavior destroys civilizations.

Butler Shaffer

20^th and 21^st century American law professor and author

 

Those who say socialism works until [the beneficiaries] run out of other people’s money are close to the truth. [It will last] until there’s nothing left to loot, and then they [will be] gone. [Needless to say,] the chattering about what went wrong will go on for years afterward. With some it will be the shame of being had but not quite knowing how; [while] with others, because they do know how. [But] with most, it will be the Stockholm Syndrome: “surely it wasn’t our leaders who fought for the working people and sincerely cared about the least among us and were selfless enough to take our earnings for our own good, to make a difference by investing in the future… for a positive outcome … in an inclusive environment …” So yes, DC is run by agents provocateur, creating and using crisis after crisis to advance a colossal sting operation, the bait being a glittering can’t-lose proposition where everybody wins. Everybody not in on the sting loses of course, which means pretty much everybody, period.

Old Remus

The Sting, 9-23-14

 

Propers

Each Sunday there are Propers: special prayers and readings from the Bible.  There is a Collect for the Day; that is a single thought prayer, most written either before the re-founding of the Church of England in the 1540s or written by Bishop Thomas Cranmer, the first Archbishop of Canterbury after the re-founding. 

 

The Collect for the Day is to be read on Sunday and during Morning and Evening Prayer until the next Sunday. The Epistle is normally a reading from one of the various Epistles, or letters, in the New Testament.  The Gospel is a reading from one of the Holy Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  The Collect is said by the minister as a prayer, the Epistle can be read by either a designated reader (as we do in our church) or by one of the ministers and the Holy Gospel, which during the service in our church is read by an ordained minister.

 

The propers are the same each year, except if a Red Letter Feast, that is one with propers in the prayerbook, falls on a Sunday, then those propers are to be read instead, except in a White Season, where it is put off.  Red Letter Feasts, so called because in the Altar Prayerbooks the titles are in red, are special days.  Most of the Red Letter Feasts are dedicated to early saints instrumental in the development of the church, others to special events.  Some days are particularly special and the Collect for that day is to be used for an octave (eight days) or an entire season, like Advent or Lent.

 

The Propers for today are found on Page 197-198, with the Collect first:

 

The Sixth Sunday after Trinity.

 

The Collect.

 

 GOD, who hast prepared for those who love thee such good things as pass man’s understanding; Pour into our hearts such love toward thee, that we, loving thee above all things, may obtain thy promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

As is oft the case, the Collect asks for help from the Holy Ghost to enter into our hearts that we might love God and, thus obtain His most excellent Gifts.  As imperfect creatures with free will, if we ask God for something, it tends to be what we want, not what we need.  He knows.  Thus, we need His Help in the form of the Holy Ghost.

 

The Epistle came from the Paul’s letter to the Romans, beginning at the First Verse of the Sixth Chapter. Paul tells us that as we were baptized unto Jesus in life, so we are baptized unto his death.  We share His death on the Cross for our sins and by His death, our sin is dead; then as He was raised up, so are we.  It is intended the death we die unto sin is to be permanent and that we go forth and sin no more.  Yet, as long as we live here on earth, we sin.  Yet, as long as we live in Christ, we live.  Thus, we reckon ourselves “to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

 

NOW ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

Today’s Holy Gospel started in the Fifth Chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew, beginning at the Twentieth Verse. Jesus tells his disciples, “Except your righteousness exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.”  Very worrisome indeed!  Scribes and Pharisees spent their entire lives acting the epitome of righteousness.  There is no way mere mortals could exceed their righteousness, or so it would seem.  Jesus goes on to tell us that not only would we not go to heaven if we commit murder, but we are in danger of the same judgment of we are angry without just cause.  If that were not worrisome enough, we are in danger of hell-fire if we call one another a fool!  Let not the night fall on discord with your family and friends, your neighbors in the Christian sense of The Word.  The text following asks us to do our best to follow Jesus and in return, his sacrifice will serve to set aside the just judgment and we shall be accounted as righteous before God.

 

ESUS said unto his disciples, Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt do no murder; and whosoever murdereth shall be in danger of the judgment: but I say unto you, that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell-fire. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.

 

Sermon – Reverend Jack Arnold – Time and Action

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 the words from the Collect,  … who hast prepared for those who love thee such good things as pass man’s understanding; Pour into our hearts such love toward thee, that we, loving thee above all things, may obtain thy promises, which exceed all that we can desire …

 

We acknowledge God will give those who love Him more good than they can imagine, let alone ask for.  But, first you have to love Him.  So what should we ask for?  The Holy Ghost to enter in to our hearts that we might truly love Him.  If we do, more good will come to use than we can even imagine or hope for. The Holy Ghost is a key element of love, without Him we cannot even love Him. If we cannot love others, how can we love Him who we have not seen? He gives us far more love than we possibly deserve.

 

That is the great and wonderful news about following our Lord. He has love for the entire world, if they would turn from their sinful ways and follow Him. This is the message that we are bringing to the world. That God loved us so much that He was willing to sacrifice His Son on the cross to die for us, that we and all who believe on Him might have everlasting life.  This is truly the Good News, for we were once condenmned to hellfire, but now through our Lord’s sacrifice are going to be allowed to enter into heaven, though we are imperfect creatures.

 

We are imperfect creatures, created with free will by a Perfect Being.  To get into heaven’s gate, we need be accounted as perfect before the Judge.  That requires a bit of an accounting irregularity, to get imperfection accounted as perfection. 

 

So what does the Collect counsel, ask for the Holy Ghost to enter into our hearts that we might get more than we can desire!  Jesus!  Jesus is that accounting irregularity. He can give us his guidance and grace via the Holy Ghost, to make us better men and women of the Lord. By His Sacrifice, made one time, for all mankind, for all time, we are accounted as perfect by His Faith and action.  Thus, through His Faith and His Action, we attain life everlasting. This is truly the greatest miracle that Christ performed for us, those of us who believe will get eternal life. And it doesn’t start when you die either! Starting today, you don’t have to wait until you die to benefit from your immortality.  In fact, God would prefer you to start acting like you will live forever right now.  Thus, decisions you make, actions you take will be with the long term view of eternity!  Versus our rather usual shortsighted short term view, we must think in the terms of the big picture, not the tiny speck in the picture. Think of the clear vision of the big picture

 

As imperfect creatures, immortal or not, we make mistakes.  One to avoid is being “mad” at ones fellow creatures, particularly family and friends.  We pick the most illogical reasons to be mad, the word chosen rather than angry.  Looked at logically, as God does, we need to solve the issue, kiss and make up, and do it before the sun sets on our anger.  Never part in anger.  One of you may not come back.  We put aside our often foolish and angry thoughts and not act upon them, but rather have Christly thoughts and act upon those. Remember that before you are “angry” at a friend, relative, acquaintance, or stranger. We must not let the anger and other irrational emotions such as fear get the best of us, but rather think calmly and figure out the best way to handle whatever situation we are in without losing control of our emotions. It can be a rather hard thing at times, but it must be done nevertheless. But through the Holy Ghost it can be done. So, the solution is to pray to God and ask for His Help in bridling our tongue and have it be a reasonable tool rather than a tool of anger and deceit!

 

When Jesus gave His Life for us, He did it knowing we would fail to follow in perfection, but fully aware some would follow to the best of their ability. We must get back up after we make our mistakes and continue on trying the best we can to follow Him. That is all He asks, do your best.  Even Saint Paul had trouble following our Lord, but he kept trying and doing his real best not to make that same mistake again.  Doing your best is not the same as saying you are doing your best.

 

There are none so deaf as those who will not hear.

 

Heaven is at the end of an uphill trail.  The easy downhill trail does not lead to the summit.

 

The time is now, not tomorrow.  The time has come, indeed.  How will you ACT?

 

It is by our actions we are known.

 

Be of God – Live of God – Act of God

 

Bishop Dennis Campbell’s Sermon

Bishop Dennis is a brilliant speaker.  He is able to take biblical precepts and make them perfectly understandable, even to me.  Oft he provides the text of his sermons and I take the utmost pleasure in passing them on:

 

The Christian and the Church

Matthew 5:20-26

Sixth Sunday after Trinity

July 12, 2015

 

The Gospel reading for this morning is a short portion of that wonderful passage of Scripture we know as “The Sermon on the Mount.” This sermon, preached by Jesus Himself, is filled with spiritual gems that have instructed and comforted God’s people since the day they first came from our Saviours lips. In it we find the Beatitudes (Mt. 5:3-12), the Lord’s Prayer (Mt. 6:9-11), and the Golden Rule (Mt. 7:12). There was a time when these portions of Scripture were deeply imprinted on the collective American heart.  Every schoolchild learned them by heart. They were read as morning devotionals in the schools, and they were posted in classrooms and courthouses and private homes across America. They were memorised at home, at school, and at Church. No more. Few children learn them at home. They are banned from the schools. Even churches no longer stress them as they once did. They have dropped out of our cultural memory and identity, and their loss has cost our culture dearly.

 

To many people, the Sermon on the Mount seems to be a jumble of unrelated stories and sayings. But those who invest even a little time and study in it, find not only catchy sayings and great beauty, but also a deep unity and purpose. It has a message, and a major part of that message is the relationship of the individual Christian believer to the Church.  That is what I want to talk about this morning.

 

The Sermon on the Mount preaches the good news that all true believers in Christ have been made a a part of, and welcomed into the Church.  You are part of God’s people.  You are a member of God’s family.  You are a member of His household.  Our Lord uses the word “brother” four times in the passage we read this morning; four times in six short verses. “Whosover is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgement; and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council.” “Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee.…”  “First be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”  Our Lord is not talking about males who have the same parents you have.  Nor is He talking about a vague idea of the brotherhood of man.  He is talking about our fellow Christians.  He is talking about our family in Christ.

 

Most Christians today are far too individualistic in their understanding of being a Christian and about the meaning and nature of the Church.  To them the Church is  invisible.  It does not consist of organisations, or congregations.  It is the spiritual unity of those who believe in Christ.  Many of these people reject all forms of organisation in this invisible Church.  They reject denominations and ordained clergy, and some even reject organised local congregations.  Those who reject local congregations believe a Christian should worship alone, or in the company of a few close friends, which they believe is the “house church” of the New Testament.  They cite Jesus as their example.  They say He went into the wilderness to pray.  They claim Jesus separated Himself and His followers from the Temple and Synagogue.  In reality, Jesus did no such thing.  He said that in the Temple He was about His Father’s business.  He said of the Temple, “My house shall be called a house of prayer.”  He faithfully participated in its liturgies and services.  Far from separating Himself from the synagogue, the Bible tells us it was His custom, His habit, the normal and intentional course of His life to worship in the synagogues (Lk. 4:16).  So, instead of separating from “organised religion,”  our Lord was a faithful participant in it.

Now that the Messiah has come, the ministry of the Temple and synagogue has ended, and the Church has been raised up in their place.  Our Lord commissioned the Apostles to build His Church.  There is much discussion and disagreement over Christ’s words to Peter in Matthew 16:18, “upon this rock I will build My Church.”  Is that rock faith? Is it the stony hill they were standing on? Is it Peter?  Though there is much disagreement here, everyone agrees Jesus is saying that somehow He will use the Apostles to build His Church.  He will build His Church through them.

 

How did the Apostles build Christ’s Church?  We see in the Bible that the Apostles did not just baptize people and send them on their way.  They baptized them into the Church.  They organised the baptized people into local congregations, with pastors and liturgies and formal memberships (Eph. 1:20-22, Eph. 4:11-14).   To the Apostles, there is no such thing as an independent or solitary Christian.  There is no such thing as a Christian worshiping alone, or a group of Christians worshiping together apart from the fellowship and authority of the Church.  There is not even any such thing as an independent local congregation.  The individual Christians were organised into local congregations with pastors appointed and ordained by the Apostles.  Local pastors and congregations were organised under bishops, also appointed and ordained by the Apostles.  Bishops were organised under the Apostles, and answered  directly to the Apostles for the faith and practice of the pastors and congregations under their care.  So, contrary to some current ideas, the early Church was highly organised.  It was considered one body with one organisation, which Christians believed was given to them by the Apostles, who received it from Christ.

 

Of course there were exceptions.  The Ethiopian eunuch was not free to leave the service of his queen, and there was no congregation in Ethiopia.  So he had no choice but to worship alone.  Today some people live in areas where there are no faithful churches to attend.  They may be forced to worship alone, or with small groups of other Biblical Christians.  But they should always seek to unite with a faithful and Biblical denomination.

 

The Sermon on the Mount also teaches that all Christians must be participating members of the Church.  Verses 23 and 24 say, “Therefore, if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hast ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”  The “if” in verse 23 does not refer to coming to the altar.  There is no “if” about that in the Lord’s mind here, and there should be no “if” in our minds either.  The “if” refers to remembering that a breach of fellowship exists between you and a fellow Christian.  If such a breach exists, you are to make every reasonable attempt to restore the fellowship between you and secure peace in the church.  I know, some people will not seek or give forgiveness, and will not allow the fellowship to be restored, but that’s for another sermon.  The point I am trying to make is that Christians come to the altar.  Our Lord assumes that the people of God come to His altar.  He assumes that we worship God in His house, according to His commandments.  He expects and commands all Christians to attend and participate in the services of a Biblical Church.

 

I want to point out some Bible verses that make this especially clear.  The first is Hebrews 10:24-25.  Verse 24 tells us to provoke one another unto love and good works.  We can’t do this from afar.  The Bible is not talking about sending an email or a text.  It is talking about what we do together in the Lord’s house on the Lord’s day.  That’s why verse 25 says, “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.”  The word for “assembling” is the Greek word from which we get the word “synagogue.” It basically means the local worshiping community, or the worship services of the local congregation.  Christians are not to forsake the worship gatherings of the local church.  We could state this another way, attend the worship services of a Biblical, local church.

 

Ephesians 1:22&23 calls the Church the body of Christ.  In these verses, the Church means the invisible unity of all believers, and the universal, visible, organised Church, and the local organised congregation. These two verses make a very important point; participation in the Church (and it must be participation in all three aspects, meaning the invisible unity, visible organisation, and local congregation) is participation in Christ.  Do you remember the parable of the Vine and the branches?  A branch that is removed from the vine withers and dies.  The Vine represents Jesus and the branches represent us.   If we are removed from the Vine, our faith withers and dies.  Our Lord is clearly talking about choice here.  He is clearly talking about people who profess to be His people, but remove themselves from the Vine.  Let me be clear about what this removal means.  It means such a person is not a Christian.  It means he is not saved.  It means he still in his sins.  It means he is not going to Heaven.  It means he is consigned and condemned to Hell, forever, by his own choice.

 

So how can you know you are firmly attached to the Vine?  Your life bears the fruit of Godliness. Your ideas, values, actions, disposition, and tastes are shaped by Christ, by the Bible.  Part of that attachment to the Vine, a very big and important part of it, is attachment to the Church, the body of Christ through a Biblical congregation.

—

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. 

 

Sixth Sunday after Trinity

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of …

12 July 2015

Psalm 111 • Isaiah 57:13b-19  •  2 Timothy 2:7-13

 

The Sixth Sunday after Trinity.

 

The Collect.

 

 GOD, who hast prepared for those who love thee such good things as pass man’s understanding; Pour into our hearts such love toward thee, that we, loving thee above all things, may obtain thy promises, which exceed all that we can desire; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Psalm 111. Confitebor tibi.

 

 WILL give thanks unto the Lord with my whole heart, * secretly among the faithful, and in the congregation.

2 The works of the Lord are great, * sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.

3 His work is worthy to be praised and had in honour, * and his righteousness endureth for ever.

4 The merciful and gracious Lord hath so done his marvellous works, * that they ought to be had in remembrance.

5 He hath given meat unto them that fear him; * he shall ever be mindful of his covenant.

6 He hath showed his people the power of his works, *

that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.

7 The works of his hands are verity and judgment; * all his commandments are true.

8 They stand fast for ever and ever, * and are done in truth and equity.

9 He sent redemption unto his people; * he hath commanded his covenant for ever; holy and reverend is his Name.

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; * a good understanding have all they that do thereafter; his praise endureth for ever.

 

Here are some questions that arise from this reading. As we read and meditate on the Word we can begin to understand the many aspects of the benefits of worshiping the Lord, praising Him, fearing Him, (having a great respect and reverence for Him), all these things begin to come into focus as we study His Word.

 

How do we get to know and understand God?   

 

2 The works of the Lord are great, * sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.

3 His work is worthy to be praised and had in honour, * and his righteousness endureth for ever.

4 The merciful and gracious Lord hath so done his marvellous works, * that they ought to be had in remembrance. 5 He hath given meat unto them that fear him; * he shall ever be mindful of his covenant.

 

We see in the works of the Lord his glory, his righteousness, he also displays compassion.

The works of the Lord are great.  What is there to not understand?  St. Paul also wrote about this natural law in the first three chapters of Romans.  “…his wonderful works are to be remembered…”.

We just need to open our eyes and look around and the world that God created and that will begin the process of knowing and understanding God.

 

How does God help us to understand why we should worship him and praise him ?

 

5 He hath given meat unto them that fear him; * he shall ever be mindful of his covenant.

6 He hath showed his people the power of his works, *

that he may give them the heritage of the heathen.

7 The works of his hands are verity and judgment; * all his commandments are true.

8 They stand fast for ever and ever, * and are done in truth and equity.

We worship the Lord because we respect him (the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding of all they that do his commandments..) 

We praise the Lord because everything he has done for us is true and his judgment is clear, his commandments are sure and correct.  So much so that they stand forever. And in doing them, keeping them one understands truth and uprightness.  Everything points to God.

 

9 He sent redemption unto his people; * he hath commanded his covenant for ever; holy and reverend is his Name.

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; * a good understanding have all they that do thereafter; his praise endureth for ever.

 

In the last two verses of this psalm we read of the Lord’s redemption of his people, he keeps his covenant forever and holy and reverend is his name. And as we have read and heard earlier, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. See how that last phrase ties into the first verse?

 

 ‘…his praise endureth for ever…’  ‘…I will praise the Lord with my whole heart…’  It all ties together.  We are also to worship the Lord together; ‘…in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation…’    All of this is to be done together, just as we are doing today in prayer, song and reading of Word of the Lord.

 

Let us reflect on the last verse of Psalm 111 this week.   “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.  

 

God is always with us, we should never be dismayed. He will protect us, he will guide us, he will be there in good times as well as bad.  Let us continue our praise and worship as we bring our gifts to the throne of Heavenly grace, to Him who is able to keep you unto that day.

 

Let us pray:

 

 GOD, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only Savior, the Prince of Peace; Give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy divisions. Take away all hatred and prejudice, and whatsoever else may hinder us from godly union and concord: that as there is but one Body and one Spirit, and one hope of our calling, one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one God and Father of us all, so we may be all of one heart and of one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, of faith and charity, and may with one mind and one mouth glorify thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 LORD God, who hast justly humbled us by thy late visitation of us with immoderate rain and waters, and in thy mercy hast relieved and comforted our souls by this seasonable and blessed change of weather; We praise and glorify thy holy Name for this thy mercy, and will always declare thy loving-kindness from generation to generation; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 GOD, whose days are without end, and whose mercies cannot be numbered; Make us, we beseech thee, deeply sensible of the shortness and uncertainty of human life; and let thy Holy Spirit lead us through this vale of misery, in holiness and righteousness, all the days of our lives: That, when we shall have served thee in our generation, we may be gathered unto our fathers, having the testimony of a good conscience; in the communion of the catholic Church; in the confidence of a certain faith; in the comfort of a reasonable, religious, and holy hope; in favour with thee our God, and in perfect charity with the world. All which we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

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.

 

Sixth Sunday after Trinity

 

Take a look at Second Timothy:

 

2 Timothy 2:7-13

7         Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.

8         Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel:

9         Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

11         It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him:

12         If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us:

13  If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.

 

St. Paul advised young Timothy, to Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things (II St. Timothy 2:7). Good advice to say the least, because all of our understanding, and all of what we might know of the Godhead comes to us by divine permission.

 

That said, it has been made plain by the apostle the Bible is not an open book to the unregenerated. Witness his first epistle to the church at Corinth wherein he wrote, But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned (2:14). Those whom the apostle described as natural or earthly-minded will not be able to comprehend those godly principles found within the pages of Scripture because they have not the Spirit of God to guide them. This is not to say that they are barred from grasping them in some limited sense. Nevertheless, what they might glean from a cursory reading of the Bible will only serve as a further indictment of their errant lifestyle choices, as well as confirm what they know already: that they have sinned against a righteous and holy God, and are thus without excuse (Romans 1:18-20). Some will turn away, but most will not even have their consciences pricked because the devil will come to snatch away any good they may have acquired, and afterwards, harden their hearts.

 

In St. Matthew 5, our Lord clarified several points with regard to the law of Moses. He called on his listeners to pursue a godly versus a man-centered righteousness when he said: Except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven (v.20). And he closed chapter 5 with these words: Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect (v.48). Ergo, we who are born again of the Spirit of God are called to true righteousness and true perfection.

 

Take, for instance, the occasion as mentioned in St. Luke’s gospel (7:36-50) where our Lord was asked to attend a supper by Simon the Pharisee. According to the Rev. Matthew Henry, “Either the Pharisee invited Jesus because he thought it to be a reputation to him to have such a guest at his table, or because his company would be an entertainment to him and his family and friends. It appears that the Pharisee did not believe in Christ, for he did not acknowledge him to be a prophet.” Imagine asking a man of God to come to your house for sport, or frivolity, or for entertainment. If such was the case, it would be abhorrent. We are not told by the “Beloved Physician” if the Pharisee did indeed seek our Lord company for such a purpose. Nevertheless, we do know that he did not treat him as a man of God, much less a welcome guest. But someone did.

 

Enter now a woman of ill repute. She was well-known to those who sat at supper with Simon, him included. She came and wept at the Master’s feet after no doubt hearing his message to the people of that locale. Her actions indicated she was moved to repentance. While the Pharisee questioned in his heart the supposed ignorance of his guest, our Lord presented a parable and then asked Simon to answer the central question regarding forgiveness. It was the Holy Ghost who had prompted this woman to come before our Lord and seek— without words but through her actions and her tears— his forgiveness for her sins. To put it another way, the mystery of the God’s regenerating Spirit enlightened this woman. He had communicated to her in a spiritual manner such an understanding of the person of Jesus Christ which Simon the Pharisee and company did not possess. Our Lord pointed out to Simon (as well as to his other guests) his deficiencies in terms of mere common courtesy per the Jewish customs of the day. He also noted that the woman whom they knew as “a sinner” was more gracious to him than Simon had been. All that the unregenerated of the Jews could do was sneer at her with hearts devoid of any compassion. They saw themselves as better— more righteous— than this woman who was known for her sinful ways. They did not once consider that they themselves were also sinners who should have been at the Master’s feet: kissing them and weeping over their ills. They too should have appealed to the Lord of Glory to forgive them of their assorted misdeeds. Without a doubt, they were the ignorant ones and not our Lord, and certainly not that poor woman.

 

The whole point of the Christian message is that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. St. Paul reminds us in Romans 3:10-11, As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. It is only through the atoning work of our Lord that we who are born again have obtained his free gift of grace. Other religions offer self-help schemes which merely gloss over sin, but cannot cleanse a person of it. As St. Paul noted in Hebrews 9:22, And almost all things are by law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. There had to be a sacrifice made to cover our sins, and thus Christ’s work at the cross accomplished that purpose once and for all time. His blood could effectually cover the sins of the whole world though it actually covers only those who have accepted him as the Christ, the Son of the living God and the author and finisher of our faith. And so, through his shed blood, we who have been regenerated will seek God’s perfection as we are made whole through the power of the Holy Ghost. Perfection does not mean we can no longer sin. While we are in the flesh, we remain subject to temptations and sinful behaviors either through error or omission. That is why we have a general confession in our worship precisely because we will sin “by thought, by word, and by deed.” One day, God will call an end to these things and we shall be perfected as members of his everlasting kingdom. But until that time, we must remember that our Christian service requires us to humble ourselves in confession to the Father in the name of his only begotten Son.

 

My grandmother used to say that “knowledge is power” and for those of us who have been paying attention to the things which have been, and are taking place in our world, such is an absolute truth. The god of this world has long ago put it in the mind of human leaders under his sway that in order to rule, they must be knowledgeable in a variety of areas, but principally those related to human conduct, governance and in the application of force. One need only examine the life and work of the Amorite king, Hammurabi of Babylon as a fit example. Here was a man who was gifted with much ability to organize and create one of the early empires in world history. He even developed a code of laws to maintain order within his kingdom. But none of what he did was to glorify God or teach people godly principles. The Lex Talionis as it was so named in Latin means “law of retribution or revenge.” It was designed to maintain his then current ordering of Babylonian society. He did not create a set of just laws which would be applied equitably to all. His laws were dedicated to Shamash the sun god and to those other gods which he made mention of in his Prologue, as well as in his closing remarks. He erroneously believed that such would lend credence and authority to his work. But man’s profane legalism is not a substitute for the laws of God: whose purpose has always been to point out mankind’s deficiencies and the need for a Saviour, rather than provide support for the rule of the unjust and the wicked: whose orders of governance were set up to serve the creature rather than the Creator.

 

In recent years, the Devil has sought to use an interpretation of Romans 13:1-4 to subjugate Christians under the yoke of authoritarianism. Unfortunately, there are a number of ministers who have fallen prey to such teaching. The passage in question reads: Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is a minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

 

St. Paul penned those words under the influence of the Holy Ghost so that all who are in Christ would endeavor to live peaceable lives. Without a proper understanding of that passage, the faithful would fall into error through their abject obedience to any set of ungodly laws and regulations. Currently, a number of ministers have been recruited by the federal authorities to serve as pacifiers of the people in any so-to-speak “crisis” situation. They have been instructed to tell the people of their localities that they should obey the federal authorities implicitly because as Christians we are commanded to obey the higher powers. What they do not tell their listeners is that in this country, the highest earthly power is the United States Constitution and not the government or its officials. Therefore a proper biblical understanding of Romans 13 would be that we are all subject to the Constitution and not simply to those functionaries of the state whose activities are in violation of its provisions. To paraphrase one commentator on this subject, “Public officials who violate the Constitution are no different than any two-bit thug who knocks off a 7-11.” And so it follows that to teach Christians that it is mandatory for them honor the lawbreaker who happens to be in authority is not what St. Paul is talking about. We are to resist evil as well as to abstain from it.

 

As regenerated souls in Christ, we ought to seek knowledge from the Godhead in all our works and ways. God has a plan and purpose for each of us who are called of him, and he desires that we petition his throne of grace so that we might come to know what he would have us do in his service (see Ephesians 4:7-16). The ungodly will seek only to elevate themselves, and, in a round-about fashion, develop their potential for their master the Devil. We, on the other hand, should seek to develop a knowledge base which will empower us to live in obedience to God’s word and commandment. As St. Paul reminded young Timothy in his second epistle (2:15), Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. The Holy Ghost is the guide and helper of all who are in Christ Jesus and who are seeking God’s will for them. May your efforts in this cause be fruitful in our Lord’s service.

 

Let us pray,

 

ather, instill in each of us a desire to seek your will for us; and assist us, we pray, in acquiring that level of understanding which will empower our service to thee; all of which we ask in the name of thy dear Son, our Saviour, even Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Have a blessed week, Bryan+

After Church Hospitality

We would like some pictures of your after service gatherings.  Come on! Help out!

 

People in our Prayers – http://faithfulcenturionprayerteam.blogspot.com/

Why? Prayer is an extremely important activity.

It is not that God knows not our needs, for He surely does. Yet, Jesus commanded us to ask God for those same needs. In addition to the obvious of asking God for help, offering thanksgiving and the like, prayer helps us focus our thoughts on how we might do God’s work.

 

The Prayer Team of the Anglican Orthodox Church was established to help our members and fellow Christians pray for those in need and to give thanks as well for the blessings we have been granted.

 

Who can be on the list? Do I have to be a member of the Anglican Orthodox Church to be prayed for?

No! The only qualification to be on the list is that you want our prayer team to pray for you. We are Christians and are happy to pray for you, no matter who you are. If you want help from God, you are our kind of people.

 

What is the commitment from the prayer team?

Each member of the team will pray for the desired outcome at last once per day.

 

 

How do I get myself or someone else on the prayer list?

You can email one of the prayer team leaders: Jack – jack@faithfulcenturion.org or Dru – dru@ faithfulcenturion.org, or call the office at (619) 659-3608 or fill out a prayer card at church.

 

What should I ask for?

Depends on what you want. Some people merely want God to be asked to heal their ills and be mentioned by their first name, others want a specific outcome and / or have more of their personal information known to the team. Ask for what you want. It is your desire and need for prayer the team is attempting to meet. For typical examples, see the list below.

 

Updating the Team

If you are on our prayer list, or if you have submitted a person that you have asked us to pray for, please update one of the team members or Hap in person, by telephone or email. It helps to be able to pray specifically for these individuals including their specific needs; plus if they get better, it is nice to give thanks!

 

Please note that on the yellow (maybe green or orange if you get an old one) cards at church, you can ask that those to be prayed for have their names disseminated to the prayer team. Those names will be said in church and appear here. Or, you can ask that their names and purpose be kept confidential, then only Hap will know to pray for them.

 

Prayer List Notice – If you have someone on the prayer list and their needs have changed, please let us know.  We’d like to update our prayers to reflect the need and most important to give thanks!

 

Travel

Bishop Jerry is on travel this week to and from Atlanta for church services there.

 

Birthday

Siri celebrated her very FIRST birthday on 20 May 2015.  She is a member of our church in India and her Grandfather and family will appreciate your prayers.

 

Anniversary

Dru and Hap Arnold celebrated their 28^th anniversary on 21 February 2015, a testimony to the work of God.

 

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

Harold McCormack (Charlie’s father) passed away the morning of 7 July 2015 of pancreatic cancer. Please give thanks for his time here on earth, for a safe passing and for comfort and strength for his family, in particular his son Charlie,  as they adjust to the temporary separation that they might let God carry their sadness, fear and worry.

 

Bill Williams passed away the weekend of 21 June 2015, after a hard fight with cancer; please keep his wife, Pam, and their children in your prayers as they adjust to the loss of their husband and father.

 

Barbara Para (69) passed away during surgery as the result of an aircraft mishap in Siler City, North Carolina.  Her husband Freddy was also onboard and was seriously injured.  Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for Freddy to place his trust in our Lord as he recovers from his injuries and deals with the loss of his wife.  Pray for comfort and strength for Freddy and also for Ken Harris, Barbara’s brother.

 

Nearing the end of their time here on earth

Phil was taken off life support on 2 April 2015. 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 Phil and his family who will of necessity remain behind.

 

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. 

 

In need of a miracle or understanding of God’s Plan

Susan is in critical condition in an Infirmary due to an aneurism. She had to be resuscitated yesterday and is gravely ill.  The family is distraught beyond words as this has come upon to them with no warning and doctors are baffled. Please pray for guidance for the medical personnel treating Susan.  Help Susan and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.  Pray for strength and courage for Susan. Your continued prayers will be appreciated.

 

Holly has had Colon Cancer, Breast Cancer and now it is in her spine. Please pray for guidance for the medical personnel treating Holly, for a miraculous remission; that Holly’s remaining time here on earth might be good.  Help Holly and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.  Pray for strength and courage for Holly.

 

Tim was on a kidney transplant list and started dialysis and was taken off the transplant list for a heart problem that required stents, while putting in stents a leaking valve was found. A port was put in and something happened and it has to be redone. In several days he will have a valve replaced, after heart surgery and recover he will go back on the transplant list. Please remember him in prayer in the days and weeks ahead.  Pray he will put his worry on God’s shoulders so he might be at peace and rest.  Pray for those treating him that they might pay attention and do their best.

 

Marilyn has been diagnosed with non-operable pancreatic cancer. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Marilyn’s remaining time here on earth might be good.  Help Marilyn and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.

 

Kathy, Don Patton’s sister, has reoccurring abdominal cancer which has not responded to treatment so far, they are nearing the end of the know treatments, with one course left to try. Please pray for guidance for the medical personnel treating Cathy, for a miraculous remission; that Cathy 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 Cathy, Don 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 Cathy.

 

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.

 

Homebound or Infirm

James is on oxygen all the time, this is bothersome to him and terrifying as well.  Please pray for James to put his worry, his bother and his terror on the Lord.  Pray for strength and guidance for James and his family.  They suggest this verse, “I am thine, save me, for I have sought thy precepts.”

 

Joan has had serious medical problems that have kept her confined. 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.

 

Surgery

Ducky is a little boy born April 2015. He has been diagnosed with Degenerative Glaucoma and will have his first operation on 6 July 2015. His parents have been told there will be a number of operations in the months ahead and they may not be able to cure it but hopefully it will be much better. Pray for Ducky and for his Family as they care for him.

 

Marcia has had a biospy of a mass in her breast which indicated a tumor that must be removed. Pray the surgical team will be open to guidance, pay close attention and do their very best.  Pray for peace of mind and trust in God for Marcia and her family.

 

Edware is having his fourth back surgery (in the last four years) Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome.  Pray also that Edware and his 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

Cynthia Olufson (Melanie Zimmer’s sister) had an infection in the Harrington rods put in her back 25 years ago.   It appears antibiotics are doing the job, she is still concerned about the rods needing to come out.  Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Cynthia and her family, particularly Melanie.  Pray also for a full recovery for her.

 

Gulnura is having continual swelling in her feet. Pray the medical team treating her will find out the problem and bring it to an end.

 

Vickie has been falling and passing out and hurt herself. Pray the medical team treating her will find out the problem and bring it to an end.

 

John Thornell, Colonel, USMC Retired Pilot is recovering from a heart related event which began on Tuesday 19 May 2015, when he noted some chest pain while playing golf.  He skipped lunch and went home for a nap.  About 0100 the next day, fully recognizable chest pain developed, four aspirin, one EMT battle (in which the losers apparently got the rights to bring John to the wrong place), one full on back from zero paddle battle,  two surgeries and three stents later, John is in ICU wanting out, but because his blood pressure is so low (he is a runner, turns out it is just like it was a month ago) they don’t want to let him out.  Please give thanks for all this coming together so John is still with his family here on earth.  Pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for John, his wife Linda and kids Skyler and Remi.  Pray also for a full recovery for him.

 

Steve Thornell is undergoing cancer treatment at University of California Irvine, please pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Steve and his family.  Pray also for a full recovery for him.

 

Red Thornell has mass in his neck, which appears likely to be cancerous.  He has had a biopsy on 22 May 2015 and expects the results after a PET scan on Tuesday 26 May 2015.  While there is an infection, his temperature is now normal; he is not for he sleeps 19-20 hours a day.  Please pray for trust in our Lord for Red and his wonderful wife Vickie as they try to get through this nightmare.

 

Elma has been suffering with headaches for a long time.  Doctors have not been able to discover the reason for them. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Elma and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for her that they might find the best treatment method to banish the headaches completely.

 

Corissa has been diagnosed with a blockage.  As soon as the Physicians determine the exact problems they expect Major Surgery will proceed.

 

Barbara Apple was more or less bedridden after a fall.  She was hospitalized in great pain and had been transferred to a skilled nursing facility where they hope to be able to control the pain level.  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.

 

Bob Apple was at the hospital picking up his wife Barbara to bring her to the skilled nursing facility when he experienced chest pain.  Barbara’s release from the hospital was delayed until Bob underwent an angiogram and had his medication adjusted.   Please pray for comfort and strength for Bob and his continued healing.

 

Deborah has had a stroke, she is doing much better and out of the hospital. She has a problem with anemia and is taking supplements for that. Pray our Lord will be close to her and her family. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Deborah and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for her that they might find the best treatment method to allow her to heal completely.

 

Rev. Steve Boardman has been diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. Pray that Jesus will be close and comfort his family and members of his congregation.

 

Hang So Ryu has cancer. 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 him and his family, as well as physical strength.

 

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.

 

Paul has been hospitalized recently several times 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.

 

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.

 

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 method 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.  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

Margaret, from California, fell and broke her on 7 July 2015, while visiting her daughter in Arizona. She will stay in Arizona for the rehabilitation and return to her home when able. Furthermore, Margaret is in good spirits; however she will be away from her church family which is important to her for an extended period of time.

 

Ashley broke her wrist. Pray for full and complete healing of her wrist and patience and trust in God while it heals.

 

Cindyis very ill, she is young and has children, she and her family need your prayers that they might stay close to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ as she heals.

 

Diana, age 15, broke her leg while in school and now has a cast on. Pray she will adjust and be healed soon

 

Bernie Coogan had a stroke near Christmas time.  He is undergoing physical and speech therapy at a rehab facility where his wife works.  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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Gil Garcia is back in the Long Beach VA Hospital.  It is quite a trip for Mary, so please pray that he will recover fully and quickly.  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.

 

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, sheis doing much better and she and her family thank you for your prayers. Her pain level is high and some medications have bad side effects. Please continue her in Prayer in the weeks ahead as she heals.

 

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

Diane spent a month in the hospital because of an inability to breath., due to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) apparently from chronic bronchitis. She is home, still very weak and learning to live with this progressive disease. Pray she will let the Lord help her be calm in her new circumstances and that healing will come.

 

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.

 

James for the Lord’s healing of health issues and give a remedy for many personal challenges at the moment

 

Thanksgiving and Continued Healing

Shamu had successful surgery on 7 July 2015, for a disruptive colon.  The colon has been removed, she gives thank for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best.  Please pray now for Shamu to trust in God, let Him carry her worry, for the epidural anesthetic to wear off and her kidneys to regain full function.  Pray she will recover to the point her internals may be rebuilt.

Aleyda had successful surgery on 24 June 2015 for difficult and painful kidney stones. Please give thanks for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best; give thanks for the great result and pray for continued healing.

 

Mary had a cataract operation early the morning of Tuesday 16 June 2015, which went well.  Please give thanks for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best; give thanks for the great result and pray for continued healing.

 

Sandy Patton had an ovarian cyst removed on 9 June 2015.  Surgery went well, on pathological testing there was no sign of cancer.  After a day, she went home and is resting and recovering! Please give thanks for the great result and for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best.  Pray for continued recovery and peace of mind and trust in God for Sandy and her family.

 

Herb McCormick (1st Sergeant, USA Retired and dear friend of Bishop Jerry) had throat cancer surgery on 12 May 2015 at Emory Hospital, Atlanta.  At 86, it was major surgery with little hope of survival.  Herb survived the surgery, which apparently went very very well.  Please give thanks for the medical team paying attention and doing their best and for the good outcome.  Pray also that Herb and her family will be able to let God help them as he recovers. Peggy and her family thank you for your prayers.  Herb, his wife and two daughters give thanks for your prayer and ask you pray for continued healing.

 

Peggy had very successful surgery for a torn Rotator Cuff on 30 April 2015.  Please give thanks for the medical team paying attention and doing their best and for a good outcome.  Pray also that Peggy and her family will be able to let God help them as she recovers. Peggy and her family thank you for your prayers.

 

 

Bob Balslev gives thanks for successful knee replacement operation and asks for your prayers for a full and rapid recovery.

 

Bill Hall gives thanks for a successful bilateral knee replacement operation and asks for your prayers for a full and rapid recovery and for help with pain at night.

 

Carolyn, (Charlie McCormack’s mom) was hospitalized with a blood clot in her arm, she is back home and doing well.  Please pray the clot will continue to abate without damage to her system.  Give her trust in the Lord and peace of mind for her and Charlie, too.

 

Daisy Lee is recovering from necrotizing fasciitis, which manifested on 30 January 2015, causing the loss of her right arm and her left hand, as well as parts of both feet. This is very very hard, but Daisy has kept her faith.  As she becomes more well, less in people’s thoughts and prayers it will be a lot tougher for her.  Please pray for strength for her and her family and friends as time moves on.  Her family is thankful for all the support they have received during these past couple weeks and hopes all will continue to pray for Daisy’s speedy recovery.

 

Here is an update from Daisy’s brother Galin:

 

My sister’s condition, as you know, has stabilized.  Daisy was transferred to Kaiser’s San Leandro Acute Care Rehab for therapy and wound vac care [as an aside, she’s been fortunate to have good roommates with good families].  My sister was recently fitted for her left prosthetic arm; it is controlled through the nerves, appears to be quite functional, and fairly easy to control.  Once that prosthetic is completed they will fit her for her right prosthetic arm.  The feet, however, are a different story.  While the wound vac has worked tremendously in healing her feet, they will need further healing before being fitted for prosthetics.

 

Kaiser will be discharging my sister on August 2.  So yes, she will be going home soon.  She’s looking forward to it.  She and we know there’s still a very long road ahead but I know she’ll be able to handle it.

Galin

 

Pray for peace of mind and trust in God for Daisy’s family, her husband and children Tiffany and Chris. 

 

Michael Lenahan known to all as Bullet was hospitalized on 18 March 2015, and had a stent placed in a cardio artery.   All went well and he is recovering nicely.  Please give thanks for the great result and pray for a complete and rapid recovery for Bullet.

 

Janet Jessup had a stroke on 3 July 2014 and heart problems that were causing huge issues for her.  They seem to have gotten her stabilized and she is going home from the hospital.  Please join the entire family in giving thanks for this wonderful development. Please pray for those treating her to find the appropriate treatment and for trust in God and peace of mind for Janet and her family, in particular her husband of 43 years, Rev Roger Jessup, retired minister of Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church.

 

Arch Crittenden has Multiple Myeloma (cancer cells in bone marrow); without this treatment life expectancy is one to two years.  The treatment has apparently been effective.  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.

 

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.

 

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 reconstructive surgery seems to have gravely affected her back muscles and nerves, resulting in both very limited mobility and extreme pain,  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.

 

Mary Thornell has been battling colon cancer for three years now, she is currently treating at the City of Hope.  Things seem to be going well, the numbers seem headed in the right direction.  Good news received on 29 June from Mary and Jet:

 

Today we met with our Oncologist at the City of Hope to get the results of Mary’s cancer scan done last week. The scan shows a 50% reduction in all her lung tumors. It also shows no cancer anywhere else in her body, to include all organs and colon area.

 

The doctor was very pleased with Mary’s response to treatment which started in March 2015. She completed the Irinotecan (a very toxic chemo drug) regimen at the end of May. So the new protocol going forward will be called “Chemo Maintenance” every other week and will consist of Avastin, which is a drug developed by the City of Hope and also will continue with the 5FU pump which she has attached for 48 hours. We are very pleased with this report, but realize our schedule will continue as it is as we will have a chemo week every other week indefinitely.

 

Mary wants to thank each of you for your continued thoughts and prayers as we continue this journey.

Mary and Jim Thornell

 

Please pray for guidance for those treating her, as well as strength, guidance and peace of mind for Mary and her husband Jim, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, as she undergoes treatment. 

 

Jim Thornell (Jet) seems to have recovered from the five stomach ulcers and now is dealing with blocked coronary arteries and taking care of Mary. 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.

 

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.

 

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


Paul recently had his large toe amputated due to diabetes and is having a difficult recovery filled with fear about dying. He recently accepted Jesus as his savior and his family Rosie and Brenda are very grateful. Pray for strength for both Rosie and Brenda who are staying by his side through it all encouraging him on. 

 

Steve is addicted to alcohol, pain pills and gambling. Pray for wisdom, courage and strength to stick with treatment and follow God’s plan for his life

 

Eli has some mental issues and has lost his way.  He was admitted to the hospital for psychological evaluation to get a proper diagnosis and medications and has been discharged.  He has yet to come to grips with the demons chasing him.  Pray he will return to the Lord and his family.  Eli’s brother Carl has gotten little to no support from the family, he being the one to get Eli into treatment.  Daughter Katie seems to be the least helpful.  Pray they will ask God to send the Holy Ghost in to straighten things out and they will listen when He speaks to them.  The family has been open to the Prince of Darkness and needs help.

 

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?

 

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.

 

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.

 

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 so that His Light can penetrate into the far corners of his heart and eradicate the darkness lingering there.

 

School Challenges

Destiny, Blake and Janet

 

Anglican Orthodox Church

Kenya

The Anglican Orthodox Church is making plans for establishment of a presence in Kissi, Kenya.  There are six parishes, a total of 161 members, 68 adults, 93 children with two ministers:

 

• ·         Raphael Ondara
• ·         Johnson  Otara
• ·            

Please pray for the church there and guidance for the people involved.

 

India

Nepal has experienced a 8.3 earth quake and it has reached India where we have members of The Anglican Orthodox Church. Please pray now and continue your prayers as they experience the many problems

 

Indonesia

Please pray for the Lord’s will regarding the establishment of an AOC church in Indonesia.

 

Pakistan

The forces of evil are strong in Pakistan.  The force of God stronger.  Pray for our Christian family there.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Atlanta

Bishop Jerry was in Atlanta, preaching at a church who has in attendance many members of another church founded in 1887 that has closed.  Many of those are older, in their late 70s and early 80s.  Please pray they will see this is a parish where they can be one with other believers.  Please pray the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so that they might see their way to come together.

 

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


Dustin (Middle East)., Kristyna Thomas (Army – Camp Walker – Taegu / Daegu, ROK), Airman Donny Patton (USAF – 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), Ethan (US Army Airborne – Southwest Asia)

 

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

The Islamist group (ISIS) just took over Quaragosh, the biggest Christian city in Iraq; 164 men, women and children were beheaded.  People ask where is God?  The real question is where are the people to enforce God’s will.  Pray the people of the world will see Allah for who he is, the Devil.  Pray for those who remain behind that they might find a way to safety.

 

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.

 

Various Special Requests

Nicholas will enter the Georgia Police Academy on Monday 29 June 2015, to begin his training and certification process as a Police Officer.  Pray for strength, courage and persistence for him.

 

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.

 

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!

 

The near future, as well as Next Sunday

 

19 July 2013 – Sixth Sunday after Trinity– 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

 

 

26 July 2013 – Sixth Sunday after Trinity– 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