171203 AOC Sunday Report

Today was the First Sunday in Advent. This is the first day of the new “liturgical year”[1], a New Year’s Day, so to speak.

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 –

What Church? Screwtape[2] expands on developing church participation for evil ends:

Surely you know that if a man can’t be cured of churchgoing, the next best thing is to send him all over the neighbourhood looking for the church that ‘suits’ him until he becomes a taster or connoisseur of churches.

The reasons are obvious. In the first place the parochial organisation should always be attacked, because, being a unity of place and not of likings, it brings people of different classes and psychology together in the kind of unity the Enemy desires. The congregational principle, on the other hand, makes each church into a kind of club, and finally, if all goes well, into a coterie or faction. In the second place, the search for a ‘suitable’ church makes the man a critic where the Enemy wants him to be a pupil. What He wants of the layman in church is an attitude which may, indeed, be critical in the sense of rejecting what is false or unhelpful, but which is wholly uncritical in the sense that it does not appraise—does not waste time in thinking about what it rejects, but lays itself open in uncommenting, humble receptivity to any nourishment that is going. (You see how grovelling, how unspiritual, how irredeemably vulgar He is!) This attitude, especially during sermons, creates the condition (most hostile to our whole policy) in which platitudes can become really audible to a human soul. There is hardly any sermon, or any book, which may not be dangerous to us if it is received in this temper.

Jack Lewis

The Screwtape Letters

The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.

Proverbs 15:24

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

Matthew 12:35

Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

Luke 12:15

Grace does not run in families. It needs something more than good examples and good advice to make us children of God. They that are born again are not born of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God (John 1:13). Praying parents should pray night and day that their children may be born of the Spirit.

JC Ryle

19^th century Anglican bishop and author

If God exists, everything is possible; if there is no God, everything is permitted.

Fyodor Dostoevski

20^th century Russian author

One man with a gun can control one hundred without one.

Vladimir Lenin

19^th and 20^th century Bolshevik and mass murderer

Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants; it is the creed of slaves.

William Pitt, aka the Earl of Chatham

18^th century British statesman
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.

Today, the propers for today can be found on Page 90-92:

The First Sunday in Advent

The Collect.

LMIGHTY God, give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness, and put upon us the armour of light, now in the time of this mortal life, in which thy Son Jesus Christ came to visit us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come again in his glorious majesty to judge both the quick and the dead, we may rise to the life immortal, through him who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, now and ever. Amen.

¶ This Collect is to be repeated every day, after the other Collects in Advent, until Christmas Day.

The Epistle for today comes from Paul’s letter to the Romans, starting at the Eight Verse of the Thirteenth Chapter. Paul tells us to be self sufficient, but love and care for one another, do not commit adultery, do not murder, steal or lie. But more than that, “Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.” For, if you love your neighbor, you will do no ill to him. “Therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” We need to do this today, because the time of “our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” We hear often “The end of the world is near.” And it may well be. But for each of us, this world’s end comes when we leave for the next. Have we treated our fellow beings as Jesus commanded us in God’s name? Because in the answer to that is hidden the key to our next life.

we no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Today’s Holy Gospel came from the Gospel according to Saint Matthew, the Twenty-First Chapter, beginning at the First Verse. It is the story of Palm Sunday when Jesus came triumphant into Jerusalem. Jesus sent “two disciples, saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.” This was done that the prophecy of years gone past might be fulfilled of a triumphant entry of the Messiah into Jerusalem. The people expecting a Prince of this World, “spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the higheAnd when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.” Rather than assuming the crown of this world, “Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.”[3]

hen they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, and brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon. And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the higheAnd when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee. And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money-changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.

THE EXHORTATIONS.

¶ At the time of the Celebration of the Communion, after the prayer for the whole state of Christ’s Church, the Priest may say this Exhortation. And Note, That the Exhortation shall be said on the First Sunday in Advent, the First Sunday in Lent, and Trinity Sunday.

EARLY beloved in the Lord, ye who mind to come to the holy Communion of the Body and Blood of our Saviour Christ, must consider how Saint Paul exhorteth all persons diligently to try and examine themselves, before they presume to eat of that Bread, and drink of that Cup. For as the benefit is great, if with a true penitent heart and lively faith we receive that holy Sacrament; so is the danger great, if we receive the same unworthily. Judge therefore your- selves, brethren, that ye be not judged of the Lord; repent you truly for your sins past; have a lively and stedfast faith in Christ our Saviour; amend your lives, and be in perfect charity with all men; so shall ye be meet partakers of those holy mysteries. And above all things ye must give most humble and hearty thanks to God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, for the redemption of the world by the death and passion of our Saviour Christ, both God and man; who did humble himself, even to the death upon the Cross, for us, miserable sinners, who lay in darkness and the shadow of death; that he might make us the children of God, and exalt us to everlasting life. And to the end that we should always remember the exceeding great love of our Master, and only Saviour, Jesus Christ, thus dying for us, and the innumerable benefits which by his precious blood-shedding he hath obtained for us; he hath instituted and ordained holy mysteries, as pledges of his love, and for a continual remembrance of his death, to our great and endless com- fort. To him therefore, with the Father and the Holy Ghost, let us give, as we are most bounden, continual thanks; submitting ourselves wholly to his holy will and pleasure, and studying to serve him in true holiness and righteousness all the days of our life. Amen.

Bishop Ogles’ Sermon

We are oft fortunate to get copies of Bishop Jerry’s sermon notes. Today is one of those Sundays. Today’s sermon starts off with the collect, and like always, it will give you a lot to consider in your heart.

Sermon Notes

First Sunday in Advent

Saint Andrews Anglican Church – Enterprise, Alabama

3 December 2017, Anno Domini

The First Sunday in Advent

The Collect.

¶ This Collect is to be repeated every day, after the other Collects in Advent, until Christmas Day.

30 November Feast Day of Andrew, Patron of Fisherman

Andrew, like his brother Simon Peter, was a fisherman. He became a disciple of the great St. John the Baptist, but when John pointed to Jesus and said, “Behold the Lamb of God!” Andrew understood that Jesus was greater. At once he left John to follow the Divine Master. Jesus knew that Andrew was walking behind him, and turning back, he asked, “what do you seek?” When Andrew answered that he would like to know where Jesus lived, Our Lord replied, “Come and see.” Andrew had been only a little time with Jesus when he realized that this was truly the Messiah.

From then on, he chose to follow Jesus. Andrew was thus the first disciple of Christ. Next, Andrew brought his brother Simon (St. Peter) to Jesus and Jesus received him, too, as His disciple. At first the two brothers continued to carry on their fishing trade and family affairs, but later, the Lord called them to stay with Him all the time. He promised to make them fishers of men, and this time, they left their nets for good. It is believed that after Our Lord ascended into Heaven, St. Andrew went to Greece to preach the gospel. He is said to have been put to death on a cross, to which he was tied, not nailed. He lived two days in that state of suffering, still preaching to the people who gathered around their beloved Apostle. Two countries have chosen Saint Andrew as their patron – Russia and Scotland.

The following illustration from a dear friend in England, Rev Geordie Menzies-Grierson, sent about ten years back:

The Sacred Use of Sunday – The Royal Box Was Empty

On a recent visit to Venice, that city prepared an elaborate performance at one of the principal theaters for Emperor William of Germany. The performance was set for Sunday evening. When the Emperor was informed of what had been done and was asked to honor the assembly with his presence, he replied, “Since I have become Emperor, I have made it a principle of my life never to attend any place of amusement on the Lord’s Day.” King Humbert followed the Emperor’s example. As both Emperor and King were expected, the theater was crowded from floor to ceiling, but the royal box was empty. The brilliant gathering learned a lesson on the duty of keeping holy the Lord’s Day. —Topical Illustrations (see poem below)

No pelting rain can make us stay

When we have tickets for the play;

But let one drop the pavement smirch,

And it’s too wet to go to church. –Author Unknown

hen shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the doorwas shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. (Matthew 25:1-13)

This parable refers to the Church itself – the Kingdom of Heaven.

The Bridegroom is Christ, and He has prepared a great Marriage Supper for His Friends (you and me).

It illustrates the difference between a virtue based on works and one based on Grace. Ten Virgins (good moral young ladies). Five were virtuous in their physical being (works) and five were virtuous in body and soul.

The parable speaks to this matter,–If there be true faith in the heart, there will be active obedience in the life:.

¹ Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

Lamps represent the love and direction they seek in Christ, their Bridegroom.

² And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.

The Ten were not all of the same heart. How were they different?

³ They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: ⁴ But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

A poem, written by Keith Reid, states:

The end of the evening, unable to cope

Unique entertainment no longer a joke

The close of the picture, the end of the show

Merciless torment, torturous blow

New lamps for old

Bright shiny gold

Innocent youth

Falsehood for truth

The eye of the needle, the loss of the thread

Triumphant victor, glorious dead

The cause becomes duty; duty’s the blow

Which kills the picture: death of the show

The Cause is Christ! When the Cause becomes anything else besides Christ, the prize is lost.

Too many are attending church and calling themselves Christian out of a sense of Duty and not a Love for Christ.

Duty is a result of that Love, not the Cause (Christ).

The old lamps of the Gospel are often discarded for the new ones of apostacy. These new lamps are shiny and bright, but the old are dignified by wear and time. The Old is perhaps not so pretty to look upon, but are filled with the Light of the Holy Spirit. The new ones are bright and pretty on the outside, but are filled with darkness.

Here is an illustration from a story my mother used to tell me from Arabian Nights.

Aladdin’s Lamp is a fantasy story that contains much true of genuine merit. From Arabian nights. Setting is a western city in China. The story is actually an addition to 1001 Nights added by Antoine Galland.

Aladdin has found a Lamp that contains great power to the owner. In safe-gauarding the Lamp, he leaves it in the care of his betrothed, the Princess. She knows not the quality of the Lamp. So, a magician who has coveted gaining the Lamp for himself, goes about the streets offering to trade new lamps for Old.

This is happening today in the publication of so-called Bibles that are new and shiny, but dark inside their covers.

“New Lamps for Old,” cries the magician. If we are wise, we will keep the Old Lights and reject the new false lights.

⁵ While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.

The foolish virgins only wanted the appearance of having Light, the Wise Virgins wanted the Light itself.

Notice that all slept which is normal. We cannot remain vigilant at all hours.

⁶ And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.

At Midnight – this has come to be known as the Midnight Cry!

It is based on the Gospel account of the return of Christ:

1 Cor 15:52 ⁵¹ Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, ⁵² In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

1 Thess 4:16 ¹⁶ For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

It is also based on the betrothal customs of ancient Israel, Korea, and China.

When this cry is given, it is very much like the Fountains of the Deep being broken up in the account of Noah. At that moment, there will be no time to acquire righteousness. We must be ready then and there to meet Christ.

⁷ Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. ⁸ And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. ⁹ But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.

Our salvation in Christ comes directly from His Hand. We must all alike tap that Boundless Resource for our salvation. We can not grant it to others, it must come from Christ directly.

¹⁰ And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

When the last righteous soul enters into the gates of Heaven then, like the Ark of Noah, the gate will be closed. No others will gain admittance.

The other five virgins came late but were not received:

¹¹ Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. ¹² But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. ¹³ Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Matthew 7:²¹ Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. ²² Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? ²³ And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity

Be ready for Christ always….Amen.

Sermon – Reverend Jack Arnold – Time and Action

Church of the Faithful Centurion – Descanso, California

Today’s sermon brought the Collect, Epistle and Gospel together because as is always the case there is a unifying message in the Scripture for this Sunday.

The First Sunday in Advent

The Collect.

¶ This Collect is to be repeated every day, after the other Collects in Advent, until Christmas Day.

Today’s Collect, like almost all of them, starts out asking God’s Grace, His Help, His intervention to allow us to turn our backs on evil and our own desires that we might make His Desire our desire. This theme is constant through ought most of the collects for the simple reason that it is truth. And it is the truth that without God’s intervention in our lives through the help of the Holy Ghost we are doomed to fail. If you will understand how much we fall short in our “natural” desire, you will understand that to cast off the works of darkness and don the armour of light, we must turn to Christ, who came to visit us, born in a simple and humble inn in Bethlehem. As His manner of birth, we must be humble as well, not boastful and proud like the rich[4], but meek and lowly, to embrace light and cast off the works of darkness. We have to let go of our pride in order to be humble and be able to cast off the works of darkness. Though He came in a rather humble manner, He shall return in a glorious and majestic manner, a rather stark contrast to His original incarnation, leaving no doubt who has come to lead us.

The simple truth of the matter is that we must embrace lightness and reject the darkness. We do this by allowing the Holy Ghost into our hearts, to shine the light in our hearts and expel the darkness. It is a truly bright light that will cleanse our hearts of the inner darkness and will send the darkness scattering like insects. Only then can we truly don the armor of light. We need to train our brains and minds and souls in this way, so that we can act for Christ. This is a constant process that will occur for the rest of our lies until we are called home to join our friends and family who have gone before and Christ and His Father. We have been called to do these things, as sons and daughters of God, but only with a conscious effort on our part to accept Him and more importantly to listen to Him, can we do these things. To do these things we have to live it. Not just say we are living it, but physically perform the actions needed to live it.

This point brings us straight to the Epistle. Paul tells us that we need to live the life we aspire to. He cautions us to not borrow for what we do not need that we might owe others nothing but our love. This is sound financial advice sorely needed in this country these days. If we do, we are ensuring that we will not have a worldly obligation to any who might hold that over us to influence our path away from that Christ set out for us. We ideally owe no man anything but that of our love. Paul asks us to love our neighbors, by love he means to take care for them as we would for ourselves or our own close relations. Not necessarily to “give” them money, but to help them to attain self-sufficiency that they might prosper both in soul and body.

This takes us right into the Gospel according to Saint Matthew. We must not be for God in speech only, but in deed. When Jesus came into this world, He came knowing the true purpose of His coming, He came knowing how He would leave, He came knowing the cost at which our souls would be accounted at perfect. His whole ministry, including his death and resurrection can be best summed up in one word; action. He consistently backed up His Message with actions and not just words. This is a pattern for us to follow as believers, we are called not just to say good words, but back those good words up with actions. The story of Palm Sunday is the same as that of the Nativity. For on Palm Sunday, there was joy in the crowd at the arrival of the Savior, much as there was in the stable at the arrival of the Child Jesus. Yet, many in the very same crowd who cried “Hosanna” on Palm Sunday were there early on Good Friday. For what did they cry then?

“Crucify Him, Crucify Him!”

Pilate asked for them to cry for mercy, they cried for vengeance on their Lord and Savior!

A swift 180° turn from “Hosanna to the Son of David.” How quick are men to turn upon that of a good thing. As Charles Spurgeon said “It is an astounding thing and a proof of human depravity that men do not themselves seek salvation. They even deny the necessity of it and would sooner run away than be partakers of it.” This is due to our natural inclination to choose the fruit of death rather than the bread of life, which comes from the Baker of Life, Jesus Christ.

The Bread of Life is Christ’s sacrifice for us, and every time we partake of it in Holy Communion and listening to the Gospel and the Epistle, we must always remember the cost of our freedom from death. This Bread did not come to us without a cost namely His Death and resurrection. It also comes with conditions, namely that we profess Christ as Our Saviour and to put Him first in our lives, love God with all our heart, soul and mind, and love our neighbors as ourselves. We have heard this before in the Summary of the Law. This is what the Law of God condenses down to, and this is what all laws we set forth must be based upon, for there is no other rational or foundational base so great and solid as Christ. He must be the Chief Cornerstone in our lives, if our lives are to have any meaning. There are those who He is not chief in, and they are those who may vainly profess His name with their lips, but not in their actions. This is a great sorrow for them. They have not kept the Word of God in their hearts, though they may shallowly profess it with their lips. It is action and not diction that counts!

We must not be like them. We must put on the great Armour of Light and so reject our former lives of sin and vanity. We must switch from our old selfish lives to a new unselfish, Christ filled life. It is something we always struggle with, but God never gives up on us. We can be comforted by the assurance He will never give up on us. We just have to never give up on Him and do our very best to follow what He says. As long as we repent from our sin and turn back to God in our private prayers and devotion, he will wipe our slate clean. I know I have a hard time keeping on the straight and narrow path, so I am glad He left the Scriptures to guide us.

Through following His Word and Instructions, we shall be given a greater reward than anything existent on the Earth; past, present or future, that gift of immortal life, life for all eternity, that will outlast this physical world. To don the armour of light is not merely putting it on, you must utilize it, the helmet, the buckler and sword (Scriptures and Christ’s teachings). You need the whole complement of weaponry to go into combat with the Prince of Darkness in this fallen world. And you not only need the complement of weaponry, but we need to train with these weapons. The best way is to be reading Scriptures regularly and discussing the meaning of it with your fellow believers. This way you can ingrain the Scriptures in your heart and be ready to do battle with those who follow the Prince of this World.

Make no mistake, we are engaged in a World War with the Prince of Air, the Prince of This World for the souls of men, starting with our own, a World War which has been going on since the beginning of time. But we know the ending is in our favor for certain, for the Book of Revelation tells us so.

As individuals we may not experience victory here on earth. We may struggle with problems in this world and our own, our whole lifespan on this planet. We may not see and savor that victory here on earth; but we know in the end He will be victorious as we know the Savior. We will win, for we are on His Side.

Cast off the dull worn robes of darkness, which lack luster, give no warmth, protect not from the heat, and put on the shining glorious armour of light. So kitted up, we walk in light, not in darkness where we may stumble and fall. Unlike moths, for us light is life, not the destruction of darkness.

Come, put on the Armor of Light and go forth to destroy that last enemy, death!

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

Roy Morales-Kuhn, Bishop and Pastor – 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, as well as South America.

First Sunday in Advent

Romans 13:8-14 • Matthew 21:1-13

3 December 2017, Anno Domini

The First Sunday in Advent

The Collect.

As we approach the shortest days of the year we can visibly notice the days gathering in. Every morning it is a little darker than the day before, every evening the sun goes down a few minutes earlier. The collect for the first Sunday in Advent and the epistle for today both reference this darkness, now in a similar way. Yes, it is darker than say September, yes it is definitely darker than in June, but yet in this time of less light there is hope. The hope that comes with the days getting longer, not too many days after Christmas. We can see that it is getting lighter each morning and after a fashion, each evening.

This darkness is to be cast away, we are to put on the ‘armor of light’. We are to ‘cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. Why ? Because the night is far spent, it is over, day is at hand. The coming of Messiah is at hand. Notice how in the passage from Romans Paul writes that it is time to show our love to our neighbors, because love is the fulfilling of the law. Not by our efforts, but because the Son of God has come to fulfill the law, the shedding of his blood will cover all the sins of the world. His death on the cross, his burial, resurrection will ensure our salvation. Because he has conquered death, he has over come the grave.

9 For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

10 Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

Notice in Verse 9 Paul gives a review of the decalogue, just in case we forgot. But then he continues the love theme, brought to earth by the Son of God, in pointing our the sum total of the law is to love thy neighbor as thyself. Verse ten makes this clear; love worketh no ill to his neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

Don’t we read this very theme in the service of Holy Communion ? Why do you think this is reviewed every time we feed upon the elements of the holy supper ? Because it is hard loving our fellow men. We can always find something wrong with others. We can always find a reason to not like someone, an annoying habit, their choice of friends, politics or something else. I think we see this theme reiterated over and over again to show us the truly divine gift that God gave us.

Humans can be so evil, so nasty, so traitorous, and YET God still reached down through the ages and offers us salvation. If salvation of mankind was left up to us, very few would be given the opportunity to seek God’s face. We would be so evil and mean spirited. We’d put so many conditions in the way. Instead, God asks us to repent, turn from our wicked ways and be saved. Call upon the NAME by which all are saved. Call upon the savior Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.

Now comes the role of the believers. You always know that there is a responsibility that is placed on those of us who follow Christ. So what are we to do ? The last three verses of this passage from the letter to the Romans gives us a clue.

First

We are to notice the night is coming to an end, that meaning that evil will not prevail we have hope of the light of the coming day. In this hope we are to cast off the works of darkness AND put on the armor of light.

Second

We are to walk honestly; in broad daylight, not in riotous living, drunkenness, not messing around with people who aren’t our spouses, no strife or envying.

Lastly

We are to put on the Lord Jesus Christ; avoiding the provisions of the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof. By putting on Christ as a shield, we can avoid the drag of the world, we can strive to show that we are different than the world of darkness. We can reach the world by showing that we are different. People will notice. Then they will ask, then you have the opportunity to share your faith, your hope, your Lord and his salvation. Let us go forth and do likewise.

Let us pray:

God, who hast made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on the face of the whole earth, and didst send thy blessed Son to preach peace to them that are far off and to them that are nigh; Grant that all men everywhere may see after thee and find thee. Bring the nations into thy fold, pour out thy Spirit upon all flesh, and hasten thy kingdom; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God, look mercifully upon the world which though hast redeemed by the blood of thy dear Son, and incline the hearts of many to dedicate themselves to the sacred Ministry of thy Church; through the same thy Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

God, who makest us glad with the weekly remembrance of the glorious resurrection of thy Son our Lord; Vouchsafe us this day such blessing through our worship of thee, that the days to come be spent in thy service; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

✟

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:

Cometh

Matthew 21:1-13, Romans 13:8-14

First Sunday of Advent

December 3, 2017

Trinity Season emphasises what Christians do. With Advent we turn again to emphasising what God does. Or, more specifically, what God does to rescue us from sin and destruction, and to restore us to Himself and His Body, the Church. Sometimes we speak of this as what Christians believe, which is a correct way of stating it, but what we believe is irrelevant if it is not true. That’s why I like to talk about Advent to Pentecost as emphasising what God does.

Our readings and Church seasons are divided equally between the two emphases. We begin in Advent, so, today is the first day of the New Year, and we emphasise the mighty works of God in Christ reconciling sinners to Himself. Trinity begins the second half, when we emphasise our response to what God has done. We find, as we go through the seasons, that we seem to be unable to make a clear distinction between God’s actions and our response. You have probably noticed this in the Scripture readings and in the sermons. Both constantly shift back and forth between these two poles. This shifting often happens in the same Scripture passage, or the same sermon, or even in the same sentence. The reason for this is obvious; God’s actions and our response are inseparably joined. They are like two sides of the same coin. We know we can pound a coin, bend it, and remake into something else, at which point it is no longer a coin. But as long as it remains a coin it has two sides. So it is with God’s acts and our response. As long as God acts and we exist, there will always be a response from us.The question is not if will we respond, but how we will respond.

But let’s talk about this in the equally valid way of saying the first part of the year teaches what Christians believe, and the second part teaches what Christians do. We can say with confidence that the things we really believe will really direct the course of our lives and actions. As a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he” the Bible wisely says in Proverbs 23:7. That is why it is so devastating to our culture to indoctrinate people into the idea that they are nothing but smart animals. If people think they are animals they will act like animals. If they believe there is no right or wrong, they will act like there is no right or wrong. If they believe there is no God they will live as though there is no God. And if we indoctrinate people into these ideas from childhood, we must not be surprised when they put them into practice in their lives. And if it is true that as a man “thinketh in his heart, so is he,” it is also true that as a nation thinketh in its heart, so it is; and we can say the same for a culture, or a community, or a family, or a church.

So, when in Advent, our Scripture readings draw our attention to what God does in sending the Saviour, they also call us to awake and cast off the works of darkness. When the Advent readings draw our attention to the first coming of Christ, they also call us to put on Christ, that He may come into our lives as well as into the world. When the readings remind us to think Biblically about the Return of Christ, they also tell us to be ready for His coming, because He will bring judgment as well as grace, and He will cleanse His Church and the souls of His people as He cleansed the Temple in the days of His flesh.

The first time I really read the Gospel reading for the First Sunday in Advent, I was surprised. It seemed to me that it did not fit the occasion. It seemed to me that it should rather have been read on Palm Sunday. Many others have drawn this same conclusion, for, even in this time when many of the most anti-liturgical churches have Advent wreathes and Advent lessons, other Scripture passages are read instead of the familiar passage from Matthew 21. We know from historical records that Matthew 21 was read on this day from the later 300s, and that the practice of reading it on this day is probably based on a tradition that is much, much older than that. If it is out of place, why did not men like Jerome replace it in the 300s, or Augustine in the 400s? Why did not men like Luther and Cranmer replace it with something more suitable in the 1500s? Maybe they knew something we don’t. And maybe, rather than reinventing the wheel, in this case, the Lectionary, maybe we should ask ourselves what they knew that led them to keep reading this passage on the First Sunday of Advent, and why it has continued to be the Gospel Reading down to this very day.

If you are like me, you treasure the sense of connection you get from the Lectionary and the Liturgy and the Prayer Book. It is something I have difficulty putting into words, but it means something to me to be in that line of God’s people from the beginning to this very moment. It means something to me to be connected to them in the faith and in Christ. It means something to me to worship God as they worshiped Him. It means something to me to pray as they prayed, hear the Word as they heard it, and respond as they responded, even down to their very words. I feel no need to update the Liturgy or the readings. The Biblical simplicity of Morning Prayer is far more meaningful to me than “praise and worship services.” The vestments are far more meaningful than casual dress, and they remind me I am here to lead worship and preach the word of God Almighty, not play frisbee. Our mode of dress should remind us we are here to worship God, not watch a ball game. We have come to the Lord’s Table, not Cracker Barrel. Doesn’t that make a difference?

I have been in “contemporary” churches and know many that are a mile wide, but an inch deep. I have heard many of you, who have gone to other churches while visiting friends or family, say you have come back to your church with greater appreciation and much thanksgiving in your heart for what we have here at Holy Trinity Church. But what makes what we do here so special? Is it just that it appeals to our tastes and personalities? Or is it something deeper? Could it be more than taste, more even than that sense of connection I was talking about a moment ago? Is that why we don’t feel compelled to re-invent the service and the music? Or is it because what we have here, and what we do here is Biblical? Could it be that we follow in the steps of those who have gone before us because we are on the same road to the City of God? Could it be that they set the forms and liturgies because they are Biblical and right, not because they were the popular style of the time, or because they appealed to their tastes? Could it be that, if they do not appeal to us, it is we who need to be reformed, not the worship?

So why is today’s reading from Matthew 21? And why has it been the reading for this particular Sunday for almost two-thousand years? Because it shows that the Coming of Christ, whether it is His coming to earth in the First Advent, whether it is His coming to us in our lives through faith, or whether it is His Second Coming; His coming always brings an element of cleansing. Not the gentle washing we are accustomed to thinking about in these sentimental times, but a bold, rough, aggressive cleansing that drives out the thieves and money changers and ungodliness from us; chases them out with whips and anger that seems to approach violence as He overthrows the tables and stampedes the animals and knocks down the seats of the sellers of the doves. Yes the King of Glory comes, humble, born of a Virgin, riding upon a donkey, the symbol of peace, but He comes also in judgment that is fearful to behold.

But let us not forget the Epistle, Romans 13:8-14, a passage that earnestly looks ahead to the Second Coming of Christ. How are Christians to conduct ourselves until He comes?

We are exhorted to love, of course. And we are reminded that love is not just feeling good about other people; it is active good will toward them. It is intentionally not stealing, not bearing false witness, not coveting, and not working ill. Or, we could say, love is working to provide for ourselves, rather than taking the fruit of another’s labours. Love is speaking the truth in love, and especially seeking justice for all people, rather than defrauding or oppressing them. Love is treating your neighbour as you want to be treated by him. It is doing good to others, not doing them ill.

That is the first part of what to do until Christ returns. The second part is well summarized in verse 14, “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.”

Obviously we are not being told to be idle. To make no provision for the flesh does not mean don’t earn a living and provide for the physical needs of ourselves and our families. Other wise Paul would not say if a man won’t work neither shall he eat. We are being told to do the things we would want to be doing if Jesus were to return in this very moment. Not carousing in drunkenness and chambering, meaning, parties. Wantonness is sexual immorality as well as gluttony and greed. Rather than giving ourselves to these things we are to cast off these works of darkness, and put on the armour of light, or, as verse 14 tells us, “put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ. Put on the things we see Christ doing in the Bible. There we see Him living a holy life, free of sin. We see Him as one who knows the Scriptures, and has obviously spent years learning and memorizing them. We see Him as a man of theTemple and the synagogue, and that it was His habit to attend their services. We see Him as a man of prayer, and even of fasting. His was a life that looked always to God, willing to say, even at His most trying moment, “not my will, but thine be done.” To put on Christ surely means to do these things, at the very least.

Many have said what I am trying to express today, and have done a far better job of it. One of the best is the Collect for the First Sunday of Advent. Let me close the sermon with its words.

The First Sunday in Advent

The Collect.

—

+Dennis Campbell

Bishop, Anglican Orthodox Church Diocese of Virginia

Rector, Holy Trinity Anglican Orthodox Church

Powhatan, Virginia

www.HolyTrinityAnglicanOrthodoxChurch.org

www.lifeinthescriptures.blogspot.com

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, espouse the truth and live the truth. This is really a good piece and I commend it to your careful reading.

First Sunday in Advent

No doubt you are aware our adversary, the Devil, is a very wise and crafty being who has sought over the ages to deceive men, more particularly to have them continue living sinful lives and avoiding the “contagion” of the Holy Ghost. And a significant portion of that effort has been directed toward convincing the unregenerate masses that our Lord will not be returning anytime soon so why worry. But our Lord has an alternative message. Consider the words of the Paul, For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye… are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief… For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. (I Thessalonians 5:3-9)

Paul was given of the Holy Ghost to teach and preach God’s word, and he did so with precision and with passion. Likewise, he was careful to inscribe the same so that we would have a record of it for our edification. In our epistle lesson for today, the apostle prophesied of God’s coming wrath at the end of days before our Lord’s return. As regenerate Christians, we know that it is not a question of if but when. For while we have not been given the day or the hour, an integral part of our Christian witness has been to proclaim our Lord’s return. And in light of that we ought to persuade as many as we can to turn unto God through Christ Jesus before it is too late.

We who have been born again of the Spirit know that as we have been called to labor for our Lord and Master, so the Devil has called his host of demonic spirits and captive mortals to carry out his commands. These forces of darkness have sought over the millennia to convince the masses of humanity that peace and safety can be had by their own works apart from a lively faith in the LORD our God. And in all honesty, Satan has run a fairly successful campaign to blind the minds and hearts of both the regenerate and unregenerate to the historical fact that peace, prosperity, and empire while attainable, are never lasting. Such success has hinged on an important principle: that the things of this world are worth the effort because they hold for them glory, honor and wealth—vehicles which swell their pridefulness and pave the way for their ultimate downfall. The unregenerate view the path to power over others as a path to gratification of their lusts. What they do not readily see is that their exercise of such power will result in resistance, hardship and death as those who are the objects of their control may not conform or perform as they might have imagined. Consider the following example as supplied by Lars Brownworth from his book, Lost To The West: The Forgotten Byzantine Empire That Rescued Western Civilization.

The [Byzantine] empire that Basil II left behind him [in 1025 AD] was indeed glorious, stretching from the Danube in the west to the Euphrates in the east. No power in western Europe or the Middle East could approach it; its gold coin, the nomisma, was the standard currency of trade…The Christians powers of Europe looked up to it as their great protector… Those from western Europe who traveled to the imperial markets or cities found a world drastically different from the one they had left behind. Medieval Europe was locked in feudalism, with little chance to escape grinding poverty. Peasants spent their lifetimes toiling on land they didn’t own, and medicine offered ‘cures’… that were often as lethal as the disease. The poor subsisted on a diet of coarse, dark bread and cheese, and were lucky to reach the age of thirty-five. Communication between cities was slow, travel was dangerous, and writing was restricted to the rich and powerful… In the East, by contrast, wealth poured into the imperial treasury, the population boomed, and famine seemed to be a thing of the past… Confidence was in the air, and it was contagious… society— and the [ Eastern Orthodox] church— had never been more unified… Education once again became a way for ambitious young men to advance, and vast libraries became a status symbol. Unfortunately for Byzantium, the cultural flowering that had given the empire such a splendid educated class had also made its [imperial] court arrogant and insulated, utterly convinced that they knew how to govern the empire better than anyone else. Basil’s death left power unexpectedly in their hands, and they deliberately chose weak and pliable emperors, interested more in keeping their newfound power than in what was best for the state… this shortsighted policy… guaranteed their own decline. Ruthless taxation once again fell on the poor without burdening the rich, and the land laws of the Macedonian emperors were abandoned, leaving the peasants at the mercy of their predatory (rich) neighbors [who] gobbled up virtually all of the land in their vast estates, while their contacts at court ensured that it was held tax free. Foolish emperors, confronted with a virtually independent aristocracy and now seriously short of funds, exacerbated the problem by devaluing their gold coins— a step the empire had managed to avoid for nearly seven hundred years. The value of the currency collapsed, sending inflation spiraling, and Byzantium’s prestige plummeted as international merchants abandoned the worthless coins. Small farmers were… driven to extinction, frequently ending up as serfs on their own lands, and since military veterans could no longer afford to farm, the entire system of the peasant-soldier collapsed. The Byzantine army… dangerously weakened, was forced to rely on mercenaries… Foreign wars and political chaos fell like hammer blows on the rudderless empire… Though [it] lasted for another four centuries, it never fully recovered from the impact of these… disasters.

In our epistle lesson we read, For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape (v. 3). It is clear from history that reliance on a piece of paper— a treaty— to protect one’s country is incredibly naive. Of the several treaties and agreements which were signed in Europe over the last thousand years, not one of them ever led to a complete cessation of hostilities. To the contrary, they either created parenthetical periods of peace, or they laid the groundwork for future conflicts as nations [rose] against nation and kingdoms against kingdom. (Matthew 24:6-7)

And do not think our national history will tell a different tale for our leaders have acted in a similar fashion for most of the last century. They have opted to sign pieces of paper which have no real power to prevent the very catastrophes for which those documents were meant to forestall. Some will say that arms control treaties— in particular those designed to control the development and deployment of weapons of mass destruction— have helped to ease fears and allay suspicions; but in reality they have only masked the real issues and given our populace a false sense of security.

As Christians we understand from Scripture that there will be wars and rumours of wars but the end is not yet. And if one really desires to see what is coming in our national life, we need only look at II Chronicles 36:15-16 regarding the kingdom of Judah wherein it was written that … the LORD God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place: but they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words and misused his prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against his people, till there was no remedy. The Bible tells us in those verses that God’s patience with the people of Judah had run out. And so, by extension, would you think he will do any less to our wicked society? Either we repent and turn from both our national and our personal sins and trespasses, or the Lord will deal with this country in his hot displeasure. Just by the way things are going should be evidence enough that God has begun to do just that.

Truly, our country was once blessed by our good and gracious God, as one collect reads, “with substantial industry, sound learning and good manners.” We possessed those things because we used to be a people who were for the most part true believers in the Godhead and accepting of his word. Unfortunately, our country has been in decline for many decades. Look about at our society and you will find an ever-diminishing number of Bible-believing Christians. There should be little doubt that our declining national life is directly proportional to the actual number of truly regenerated souls who are present within our society. In spite of this, you will still hear people trumpeting the notion that recovery is just around the corner.

But the good news is that God will not remove his hand from around us; neither can we be taken from his hand by the evil one if we have been born again of the Holy Ghost. No, my friends, we have not been called to experience the wrath of God. The word of God to the apostle Paul is sure and certain: But ye… are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief…

For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. Our principal duty then is to serve our Lord by being obedient to his word. While we cannot change God’s plans, we ought to commit our cares and concerns to him in prayer. We ought to trust and not worry about the state of things that are even now coming to pass. We are suppose to occupy till his comes again which means that we should be working, studying, and living our lives in faith. We ought to be engaged in intercessory prayer for those who oppose themselves that God would give them the spiritual insight to see the dangers ahead (II St. Timothy 2:24-26). As Abraham asked of God for a stay in his plan to deal with the wicked of Sodom and Gomorrah, so too must we pray that our country and its leaders will see the error of their ways and turn back to God before it is too late (Genesis 18:23-32).

Scripture tells us great and terrible things will come upon the children of disobedience, so we should endeavour daily to pull as many as we can from the fire (Jude 23). While we have not been called to experience God’s wrath, we nevertheless understand from our study of his word that evil will triumph prior to his coming in glory. However, as it is manifesting itself, God will pour out his vials of vengeance and judgment upon the wicked. The Peace and safety crowd will eventually declare victory whether it is after a horrible world conflict, or after some global leader has convinced the nations to accept his offer of universal peace via their participation as members of a giant global super state. The prison planet is coming. It might already be here. As terrifying as that may sound, we ought to keep in mind that those things are going to come to pass and to prepare our hearts for the second advent of our Saviour. The wicked will say peace and safety, but what they will get is God’s wrath. Be not partakers with them by embracing and living in obedience to Christ our Lord, the Prince of Peace.

Let us pray,

ather, assist us as we fight the good fight of faith, and stand our ground in these last days; that we will do those things which are pleasing and acceptable to thee as we occupy until our Lord returns; for these things we ask in the name of thine only begotten Son and our Saviour, even Jesus Christ. Amen.

Have a blessed week, Bryan+

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 your 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 our happy duty 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!

Immediate Prayer Please

Jieun has been through a very difficult time at the hands of people who have hurt her and are out to hurt her further as well as discredit her, she is being kept against her will at the present time. Pray that God will heal her wounds, keep her calm and safe and find a way to release her back to her family, please pray for strength calm and peace for all.

Chief Mike Wysocki finally had heart valve surgery June 2017. He was back in the hospital with a bleeding ulcer, but made it home. Please give thanks for that and pray for the medical team treating Mike that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. Pray a complete recovery and peace of mind and trust in God for Mike, his lovely wife Wendy and his family.

Jim was in the hospital 18 July 2017, for four days due to fluid around the lungs from Congestive Heart Failure. Please pray the medical team treating Jim might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. He is feeling better but this past year has been hard on him physically with four surgeries, starting with back surgery in June 2016, an eye operation in December and then two operations involving his pacemaker in March 2017 and again in May 2017. All these have weakened him but he is getting stronger and now is back in PT to help rebuild his strength. Thanks be to God. Jim and his family thank you for the prayers and request them to continue as the doctors are still working on medication balance to help his heart not to go back into Congestive Heart Failure. Pray for peace of mind and trust in God for Jim and his family.

Ron Cole Klages is a patriotic former Marine who has debilitating blood clots pursuant to cancerous growths on his liver and unknown other places. His doctors will inform of clinical findings on Monday for further treatment. Please pray for the medical team treating Ron that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance.

Jill was on life support; her family members traveled a great distance to see her and returned home safely. Jill’s condition improved to critical, but needs your prayers to continue her recovery.

Kurt Thomas is now home after undergoing open heart surgery in Richmond, Virginia as the result of a life threatening bacterial blood infection which settled in his heart and other places. The infection resulted in a hole in his heart. Kurt. They successfully replaced about half his heart with donor parts. Kurt had a permanent pacemaker installed on 26 March 2017 and he returned to work the first of June! But, now he is having problems with fluid retention. It is a God given miracle Kurt made it through all this. Please join Kurt and Mary, his family and friends in giving thanks. There is still a long and rocky road ahead; please pray for spiritual and physical strength for Kurt, his wife Mary and their family. Please pray for the medical team treating Kurt that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. Pray also for Kurt to accept what he cannot do at present and concentrate on what he can do. This is a very foreign situation for this Christian warrior. He needs God’s help to adapt and prosper.

Cindy, Bishop Jerry’s cousin, may need to undergo brain surgery if medication is not effective. Please pray the Lord will extend a hand of mercy and healing to Cindy.

Samson Hendrik has prostate cancer and his kidneys are not working. Pray our Lord Jesus Christ will be close to him and his family of friends during this illness.

Travel

Landon is in the British Virgin Islands for work. Pray he has a safe and productive time there. Pray also for air conditioning to continue so he can sleep.
Departed

Erica passed away on 27 November 2017, after a hard fought battle against a non-malignant Brain Tumor which could not be surgically removed due to the size and location. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord her mother and father Gina and Paul, as well as for her family as they deal with the temporary separation.

Jared Otieno returned home on 16 November 2017. Please pray for the Olweny family as they adjust to the loss of their beloved brother.

Duwaine Townsen passed away the morning of 1 November 2017, please give thanks for his time here on earth and for comfort and strength for his family who remain behind.

Sheree Wilder passed away on 31 October 2017, of aan aortic aneurism at age 30. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in God for her husband of seven months, Anthony, as well as for her family, in particular her mother Barbara and sister Chelsee.

Colonel Gil Garcia passed away the morning of 23 October 2017, at the Long Beach VA Medical Center after a long and amazing time here on earth. A strong Christian, husband, father, grandfather, patriot and fighter pilot, he will be missed by all who knew him. Please pray for strength and comfort for his family and friends who of necessity remain behind, in particular his lovely wife Mary.

Move

The Thomas Family are now in Virginia on what was to be a headquarters tour. Pray for peace of mind for Kurt and for Mary and the kids.

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

Doug Lambert is in the hospital with sepsis of unknown origin. For five weeks they have not been able to find the source of the problem. He is very weak and concerned that no one can find the reason for the infection. He asks that you pray for the medical team treating him to do their best, to be open to God’s guidance and for him to keep his trust in the Lord and not worry.

Neal has heart problems and is very weak, he also has COPD, kidney problems, his potassium is too high, he came back from the point of death. He is now home and permanently on oxygen. He is doing well, for that he and his family are grateful and ask your thanksgiving prayers. More importantly, please pray Neal will accept salvation through our Lord and Savior.

Paul is in hospice and ready to meet His Lord. Please pray for Paul as he prepares to go home to be with his family who have gone before him. Pray for the faith of his family to build and the transition to be good.

Dot is an elderly woman with liver cancer. Please pray for Dot 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.

Mrs. Tiffany (90) has chosen to refuse extraordinary care as it will not gain much earthly time. The Tiffanys have been together for a long, long, long time. Pray for Mrs. Tiffany and her husband as together they begin this Journey to be with their Lord.

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.

Ron had a Heart Attack, at the hospital he found out he also has Kidney Cancer. He is a man of faith and is in need of prayer for his health and that the Lord will provide strength for his family.

Kathy Cox Merritt has been receiving Chemo and 12 November 2016, had bowel resection surgery and was given a very bad prognosis. Kathy just retired as an RN in Orthopedics at a local hospital; sometimes a little medical knowledge can be dangerous to the patient but she remains positive. Please pray for Kathy’s healing and peace and comfort for her and her family, both spiritually and physical

Krysti is off life support and able to talk, please give thanks for the good news. She is still unable to feel her legs. When that comes back she will go to a rehabilitation facility. Krysti has used drugs, has high blood pressure, is diabetic and has organ failure. Her families are with her and will appreciate your prayers.

Pat has metastatic osteosarcoma; there is little that can be done. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Pat’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Pat and family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.

Amy has been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma and has cancer all over her body, and in one of her kidneys which are no longer functioning. Amy and her family have asked for prayer to stop the growth and to aid the family financially with the medical bills. At present she has to have surgery every two months to place stents. Pray Jesus will be close to all.

Gemma Dillinger has been treating for breast cancer for over a year now, after surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy, she is reaching the limit of her tolerance with no end in sight. Please pray for her to gain strength and ground on the cancer. Help her to continue with her faith in our Lord, she is not afraid to go home, but wants to make sure it is time. Pray she will be encouraged to not give up until it is her time to go and that her time here on earth with her family will be good.

Janet has had a blood borne cancer for several years. Her faith in the Lord is great and she is ready to be with Him. Pray she will be encouraged to not give up until it is her time to go.

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.

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 hon 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.

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 some time. 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.

Homebound or Infirm

Sarah had to move to an Assisted Living Home and has found the adjustment very difficult. Please pray she will come to terms with the situation and that her Lord Jesus will be close to her. She recently lost 30 pounds and her eyesight is deteriorating. Pray her appetite will improve and her eyesight will return to normal. Most of all, please pray our Lord Jesus Christ will be close to her at this difficult time.

Larry H has general weakness as the result of extreme fatigue. Larry is now up and about, walking without assistance. The depression is still a part of his life. Due to several chronic illnesses, he will never be able to live on his own. On the other hand, he has been transferred to a facility near his former home so he will be nearer his friends. Larry has difficulty with the lack of what he considers fairness in the Word. Please pray for help for Larry to put his trust in the Lord, relax and build strength and give Pastor Roy guidance on helping him.

Laurel Bessessen (95) has begun to lose her mental abilities to recall people, places and things around her. Her family is no longer able to care for her at home and she is in a skilled care facility. She is the last of that family’s generation. Please pray for the mental degradation to stop or for her to leave for home. Pray for her family who do their best to care for her, visiting every day; for her children Cookie, John and Bill, as well as the other members of the family.

Judith Clingwall is afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She is currently in Laurel Place, an extended care facility in Surrey, British Columbia. Please pray for 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.

John has Alzheimer’s pray he will call on God to help him as he deals with this.

Steve, brother in law of Paul Martin, appears to have early onset dementia. Steve had teenage children and is very concerned for them. Please pray for the disease to stall or abate and for peace of mind for Steve and his family.

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

Maria Carla is going to the hospital for corrective surgery. Pray our Lord Jesus Christ will be close to her as she has this operation. Pray for her father who will be taking her a long distance for the operation.

Marcia has had a biopsy 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 be 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.

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

Dru Arnold has a ruptured tendon in her left ankle. She asks that she be guided to the right treatment and the medical team treating her will be open to God’s guidance, pay attention and do their very best.

April and her husband ask you prayers for the Lord to guide them and lead them both to the correct medical care; and that the family may receive comfort in the process.

Michael Moriarty has been diagnosed with upper duodenal cancer which is the upper section of the small intestine. It is fairly rare and they have not decided how to treat him. Pray with Michael, his family and friends that the medical insurance people will fulfill their obligations and the physicians treating him will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for continued trust in the Lord for Michael, his family and friends in this worrisome time.

Chloe Mayo, granddaughter of Justice Roy and Kayla Moore, good friends of Bishop Jerry, suffered a serious kidney attack possibly resulting from strep. Pray her family and friends the physicians treating her will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for continued trust in the Lord for Chloe, her family and friends in this worrisome time.

Josh has two little children and just discovered he has a rare form of Cancer. Please keep him and his family in your prayers in the days ahead.

Ross an elderly gentleman has been diagnosed with Leukemia. Ross has had good health until now, your prayers at this time will be appreciated by his family and friends.

Carman was just diagnosed with breast cancer. Pray for her family as they continue to help her get the proper care. Pray with Carman, her family and friends that the physicians treating her will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for continued trust in the Lord for Carman, her family and friends in this worrisome time.

Kathie Lynn Holter sister of Rev Phil Ternahan, was just diagnosed with Stage Four lung cancer (never smoked) which spread to the brain. She was operated on 26 June 2016. Please pray with Kathie, her family and friends that the physicians treating her will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for continued trust in the Lord for Kathie, her family and friends in this worrisome time.

Tina just found out she has cancer on her left kidney. Please pray for guidance for the people treating her and for trust in our Lord for Tina and her family.

Martha is now home after testing and she does not have cancer, but she does have bad kidneys and is adjusting and getting ideas to work with that. Please pray for guidance for the people treating her and for trust in our Lord for her.

Spencer has been diagnosed with Autism. Please pray for guidance for the people treating him and for trust in our Lord for him and his mother Lorna.

Jane has Multiple Myeloma and is set for back surgery on Monday 9 May2016. Please pray with Jane, her family and friends the physicians treating her will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for continued trust in the Lord for Jane, her family and friends in this worrisome time.

Michael has cancer of the blood and is starting chemotherapy. Please pray for the physicians treating him to be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for Michael.

Clay has a large gallstone; he is in poor health and not currently a surgical candidate. Please pray for the physicians treating him to be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for Clay.

Jim Sevier has been in the hospital for heart related troubles. Please pray with Jim and his family the physicians treating him will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for Jim and his family in this worrisome time.

Claude has been falling and he does not know why. Pray doctors will discover what the problem is and he can continue without any more difficulties.

Gretchen has been diagnosed with severe osteoporosis and is now being treated with exercise, nutrition and vitamins. Please pray with Gretchen and her family the physicians treating her will be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for Gretchen and her family in this worrisome time.

Pete has not been well and is back in the hospital with another stroke. Please pray for the physicians treating him to be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for Pete and his family in this worrisome time.

Kamil has heart problems and they are trying to stabilize his medication, now he been admitted to the hospital because of breathing problems. Please pray for the physicians treating him to be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for Kamil and his family in this worrisome time.

Mary Lee has bleeding into her stomach and they cannot find the sources. Mary Lee is in CCU and her husband Maurice is not eating until she returns home for is so upset. Please pray for the physicians treating her to be guided in their assessment and treatment plan, for a full and speedy recovery to good health and for trust in the Lord for her, Maurice, as well as the rest of the family in this worrisome time.

Glenn Porter, MAJ USMC Retired, has Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis, which causes him to be unable to get enough oxygen into his system without supplemental oxygen all the time. The only real treatment is a lung transplant, without a transplant he has between two to five years here on earth. Please pray for him to continue in his faith and for a set of lungs to become available.

Pat has an aneurism of the brain, pray she will make the right decision on how to treat this problem and it will be healed.

Dan is very sick with cancer and is starting an experimental treatment. This treatment will take Dan away from their family business and put even more stress on him and his family. Please pray for Dan’s wife who is meeting with Steve who plans to keep the family business going while Dan is ill. Pray for Steve as he has many new responsibilities.

Timothy has brain cancer. He had surgery and is waiting for the pathology report to find out what kind of chemo he will need. Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team treating Timothy and patience and trust in God for Timothy and his family. Pray also for a full recovery for Timothy.

Helen was admitted from her doctor’s office 15 July 2015, as the result of a blood test, to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital with an extremely high white blood count. She and her husband are very active in the ministry of their church and are asking for believers to pray for them and their family, as they are facing very serious problems in the days to come. Please pray for guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Helen and her family. Pray also for a full recovery for her.

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.

Barbara Apple is bedridden after a fall which left her with two paralyzed limbs. She continues to experience pain in the effected limbs and will be totally bed bound for the remainder of her life. Your continuing prayers for her are appreciated and are great comfort to her. 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 miraculous full and rapid recovery. Also, please continue to pray for her husband Bob who is her sole caregiver that he will be comforted and strengthened in his time of need.

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, age 7, 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.

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.

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.

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 is having surgery on 30 September 2016 to repair a hole in his aorta bleeding into the abdomen which caused stroke like symptoms.

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.

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.

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.

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

Vladia had a right knee replacement which went well, but since the operation she is experiencing very painful side effects from medicine, very low hemoglobin and also back problems. She has been transferred back to the hospital to help correct these problems. Please pray the doctors will seek God’s Wisdom and come up with a plan to help her get back on her feet and have some normalcy in her life.

Jim Thornell (Jet) recovered from the five stomach ulcers, then was found to have bowel cancer, that was removed and he was doing pretty well all things considered. Now they have had to add a feeding port and he can no longer eat by mouth. He remains on the same chemotherapy schedule as his wife Mary at the City of Hope; he is still dealing with blocked coronary arteries and taking care of Mary. Please pray for remission of the cancer, for tolerance of the chemotherapy and give thanks for the strength, guidance and peace of mind our Lord gives Jet and his wife Mary, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, through these difficult times.

Madisun Hanks (14) has Tourette’s Syndrome and suffers from horrible migraine headaches. There are various very high risk treatments which provide some relief. None of them are close and none are easy. Madisun is truly one of the most inspiring young ladies we have ever come across, her attitude and actions are almost unbelievable. No one should have to go through what she does, but she makes it through and performs incredibly when others just get by. Please pray for Madisun, her mom Hilda who guides her through all this and those treating her.

Linda has a melanoma just forming and she needs to have it removed. She has had severe medical problems the last 15 years and needs help coping. Pray for all of her family at this time as new problems have come to light.

Chris Hill (close friend of Jon Weston) suffered a brain aneurysm and needs your prayers. He came out of a coma he had been in since the week before Christmas 2016. He is now in a stepdown facility. Every day is a new day to him; his memory seems to have been damaged to a point where it is not recovering so far. Pray for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him to pay attention, to be open to God’s guidance and do their very best. Pray for trust in our Lord and peace of mind for Chris and his family.

Rev Bill had a stroke. Pray he will stay comfortable and Jesus will be close by, please pray for a full and rapid recovery.

Dennis will begin chemotherapy for an active cancer spot on his spine on 17 September 2015. Please pray for a good result and tolerance of the treatment for him.

Vickie has been bothered with Migraines and all that go with the headaches. Please pray for relief from the pain for Vickie.

Jon has Stage 4 mantle cell lymphoma. There is good news in that he is in remission; however the chemotherapy is producing neuropathy in his legs so it is a challenge for him to get around. Please pray that he will be as comfortable as possible; he has been a Marathoner runner so this is especially difficult.

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.

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.

Donald is in the hospital and had his leg amputated on 14 April 2014. Pray he will adjust and healing will begin.

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 choose 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.

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.

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.

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, she is 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.

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.

Kay Denton (Mrs. Kay) was able to get a hip replacement in spite of her heart and kidney problems and is recovering remarkably! Please give thanks for this great event and result! 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.

Healing and Patience

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

Christopher has had problems with his leg for some time. Now he has to have it casted and it will stay that way for what to him seems an interminable time. Pray for patience and peace of mind for this young man who has much he wants to do.

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

Thanksgiving and Continued Healing

Chief Mike Wysocki had heart valve surgery in June 2017. Pray a complete recovery and peace of mind and trust in God for Mike, his lovely wife Wendy and his family.

John Young had three way heart bypass surgery on Thursday, 23 March 2017, in Alabama, which was apparently successful, then had a stroke in October while undergoing testing for his FAA medical. He has lost his right side peripheral vision. Please for a recovery of John’s vision.

Bill had surgery November 2016 for a kidney tumor; he is one kidney short, but recovering very well for the present. It appears the cancer has spread to another spot. Please pray for Bill as he undergoes chemotherapy and perhaps other treatment. Pray Bill and his family will stay strong in their faith and draw the strength they need from our Lord.

Anita had surgery on 4 November 2016 to remove what they thought were five tumors in her right lung, but turned out to be eight. They removed all eight. In addition, her lung was folded from her previous coil embolization. They removed the coils, unfolding her lower right lobe and oversewed the area. In reality she may come away with increased lung capacity. Anita, her husband Michael and family express for the power of your continued prayers and expressions of love. Please join them in giving thanks for God’s Grace and pray for her continued healing.

Bob Reisor had surgery on 19 September 2016 for a kidney tumor; he is one kidney short, but recovering very well for the present. The cancer has spread to his lung and another spot. Five years ago there was no treatment, but now it appears there is an oral medication that has shown great effectiveness on this particular cancer. As of 12 January 2017, the main spot shrank from 3.3 cm (1 1/3 inch) to 2.2 cm (7/8 inch) and the spots on his lungs have receded even more. And as of 22 June 2017, they have shrunk further. Please give thanks to the Lord for such wonderful progress. Please pray for Bob as he undergoes chemotherapy and perhaps other treatment. Pray he and his family will be drawn closer to our Lord.

Shamu had surgery on 12 May 2017, her seventeenth, to reconstruct the damage done her by Walter Reed Medical Center. She now has a bacterial infection which is laying her low. Please pray for strength; physical, mental and spiritual for her. Pray for guidance for the new medical team treating her and for her to know how to proceed with regard to the damage done her by Walter Reed Medical Center. Pray also for her to continue her trust in our Lord as she goes through this difficult time.

Atina has skin cancer, which is now in remission. Please give thanks for the remission, pray for continued remission of the cancer; pray also for continued faith for Atina and her family.

Clay has melanoma which is now in remission. Please give thanks for the remission, pray for continued remission of the cancer; pray also for continued faith for Clay and his family.

Cindy (81) had an operation to remove a cancerous growth in her stomach which was successful. She is now home, but in a bit of pain. Please give thanks for the good result, pray for full and complete healing and remission of the cancer, as well as cessation of the pain; pray also for continued faith for Cindy and her husband Les (91).

Linda had successful dental surgery on 15 December 2015, she is also on a course of chemotherapy and this type of surgery was not recommended for people while they are taking chemotherapy. But, it was an emergency and had to be done. Please give thanks all went well and pray for continued healing and for peace of mind and trust in God for Linda and her family.

Ruby broke her hip on 10 December 2015, surgery was successful. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and pray for her full and rapid recovery.

Terry was undergoing radiation treatment for cancer, which he had to stop to amputate his leg below the knee due to diabetes. The surgery was successful, he has been fitted with a prosthetic leg and foot. He is in good spirits and positive about the remainder of his treatment. Please join Terry and his family in giving thanks for the successful surgery and continue to pray for his return to radiation treatment and then to chemotherapy, ask God to give Terry, his wife and seven year old son trust in him for peace of mind and heart, as well.

Janet Jessup had a stroke and heart problems were causing huge issues for her. They seem to have gotten her stabilized and she is home. 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 45 years, Rev Roger Jessup, retired minister of Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church.

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.

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. 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.

Elma is suffering from cancer. She was taken home from the hospital on the advice of her Doctor. We were asked to pray Elma’s remaining time here on earth might be good and 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.

Business

James and Sarah who have recently moved to a new area and have new positions in employment. They are finding much stress in the new surroundings and will appreciate your prayers as they adjust.

Financial Guidance and Employment

Kona is applying for a job in the hospital. Pray our Lord will find the right position for her and she will glorify Him in the work.

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 gidan ce in considering all aspects of her potential work.

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.

God’s Strength and Peace of Soul

Roger is the caretaker for his ailing father who has been in the hospital for a week and his wife who had been declining emotionally, cognitively and in bodily health. He asks you pray for strength and peace for him and help for those he cares for.

Charlie McCormack asks your prayer the Holy Ghost might fill his heart with light and drive the darkness far away.

Guidance

Zachary is having huge problems growing up. He has let the wrong people guide his life and thinks he is the smartest person in the world. He cannot or will not see the destructive power of drugs and lies in his life. Pray his parents Lee and Shamu will come to see what course of action that they can take to help Zachary and safeguard his brother and sister. Please pray for God’s guidance for all of them and in particular for Zachary to open his heart to God and his parents help.

Judy seemingly does not want to allow the Holy Ghost into her heart so she might come to know our Lord and Savior, despite the efforts of her family. Please pray for her to open her heat and for her family to be at peace with their efforts.

Barbara has been recovering from cancer for the last three years. Pray for her husband Bill who has come down with a mental illness that may have been caused by much stress the last few years. Barbara and Bill will appreciate your prayers.

Larry is very weak and has periods of confusion and depression. Larry has been in the hospital and recently moved to a rehab. Please keep him in prayer as he begins to gain strength in the days ahead.

Thomas recently learned as the result of a parole violation he will not be allowed to return to society for the remainder of his life. He is despairing and fearful of his inability to cope with this new news and God’s plan for his life. Please pray he will be able to work with God to live with the choices he has made and go forward.

Cam has gotten into some of the issues being with the wrong crowds, too much dinking and making the wrong decisions. Pray he will ask God to send the Holy Ghost in to straighten things out and he will listen when He speaks to him.

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 has yet to come to grips with the demons chasing him. Pray he will return to the Lord and his family. 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.

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 she will be able to let God carry her worry and sorrow so she can do the things she must do.

Elizabeth needs your prayers for her general well being. Pray she might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide her life.

Gunner need your prayers for his general well being. Pray he might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide his life.

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.

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.

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.

Sam and her two children 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.

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.

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.

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.

School Challenges

Destiny, Blake and Janet

Anglican Orthodox Church

Madagascar

Please pray for the people in Madagascar, in particular for the members of the Anglican Orthodox Church there, who are being subjected to terrible flooding and unceasing rain.

Indonesia

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

Pakistan

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

Ernest Jacob

Presiding Bishop Pakistan

Congo

Jimmy is a missionary in the Congo. There has been violent unrest in this country and also a water shortage. Please pray people will find water to drink and Jimmy will be a means of helping others to find the Lord.

Serbia

Bishop Igor Djurcik asks us to pray for peace between Serbia and the country of Kosovo which broke away from them in 2008. Kosovo is a muslim country and seems to be willing to provoke conflict; Serbia is a primarily Christian country which seems to be ready to return the conflict. Pray Serbia will look for the long term best interests of its people.

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.

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 (USAF – Stateside), Kristyna and Luis Aviles (Army – Fort Lewis, Washington), Airman Donny Patton (USAF – Hulbert Field, Florida), Jordan Brown (USMC – Recruiter – Iowa City, Iowa), Trevor Jennings (USAF – KC-10 Boom Operator – McGuire AFB, NJ), Trevor Di Marco (USN – Whidbey Island, EF-18 Pilot), Kurt Thomas (USN – Virginia), 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

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.

Education

Aaron is in need of God’s guidance to see what he needs to do to fulfill his potential and live his life in a manner which will bring true happiness to him.

Thomas Dabney is attending Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, to finish his Bachelor’s Degree. Please pray for Thomas to focus on education and do his very best at school.

Jim and Mary Lou’s grandson Pearce, who is entering college this 22 August 2107.

A good, happy and productive year for our Jim and Mary Lou’s grandson Colin who is entering his Junior Year in High School.

Jim and Mary Lou’s granddaughter Lucy, who will be entering second grade for gifted children. Pray it will be the challenge she needs and she will also mature socially.

What is the “Liturgical Year”?

Liturgy based Christian churches who consider themselves catholic, or universal, use a Christian Calendar which has a pre-set annual cycle of liturgical seasons which determines when Feasts, Memorials, Commemorations, and Solemnities are to be observed and which portions of Scripture are to be read.

Distinct liturgical colors are used in connection with different seasons of the liturgical year. The dates of the festivals vary somewhat between the Western (Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and Protestant) churches and the Eastern Orthodox Churches, though the sequence and logic is the same.

The dates of many feasts vary from year to year (Moveable Feasts) due to the variation in the date of Easter, and all other dates follow from that. The extent to which the fasts and festivals are celebrated also varies between churches; in general Protestant churches observe far fewer of them than Catholic and Orthodox churches, and in particular are less likely to celebrate feasts of the Virgin Mary and the Saints.

The liturgical cycle divides the year into a series of seasons, each with their own mood, theological emphases, and modes of prayer, which can be signified by different ways of decorating churches, vestments for clergy, scriptural readings, themes for preaching and even different traditions and practices often observed personally or in the home.

In churches that follow the liturgical year, the scripture passages for each Sunday (and even each day of the year in the Anglican tradition) are specified by a list called a lectionary. Anglicans and Lutherans have traditionally followed the lectionary since the days of the Protestant Reformation. Since the 1960s, the adoption and use of lectionaries in other Protestant churches (Methodist, Reformed, United, etc.) increased. This has led to a greater awareness of the Christian year among Protestants in the later decades of the 20^th century, especially among mainline denominations.

Biblical calendars are based on the cycle of the new moon. The year is from the first new moon on or after the spring equinox to the next new moon on or after the spring equinox, rather than an arbitrary starting point like the modern calendar.

Western Christian liturgical calendars are based on the cycle of the Roman or Latin Rite of the Catholic Church, including Lutheran, Anglican, and Protestant calendars since this cycle pre-dates the Reformation.

Generally, the liturgical seasons in western Christianity are:

Advent
Christmas
Green Season (Time after Epiphany)
Lent
Easter
Green Season (Time after Trinity)

Advent from the Latin adventus, “arrival” or “coming”, the first season of the liturgical year begins four Sundays before Christmas and ends on Christmas Eve. Historically observed as a “fast”, its purpose focuses on preparation for the coming Christ.

Although often conceived as awaiting the coming of the Christ-child at Christmas it also points towards the final coming of Christ.

This period is marked by the Advent Wreath, a garland of evergreens with four candles. Traditionally, the wreath is made of four candles in a circle of evergreens. Three candles are violet and the fourth is rose. The rose candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent. Although the main symbolism of the advent wreath is simply marking the progression of time, the church attaches themes to each candle, most often ‘hope’, ‘faith’, ‘joy’, and ‘love’. Color: Violet or Blue. On the third Sunday of Advent, also called Gaudete Sunday, Rose/Pink is used.

Historically, the primary sanctuary color of Advent is Purple. This is the color of penitence and fasting as well as the color of royalty to welcome the Advent of the King. Purple is still used in Catholic churches. The purple of Advent is also the color of suffering used during Lent and Holy Week. This points to an important connection between Jesus’ birth and death. The nativity, the Incarnation, cannot be separated from the crucifixion. The purpose of Jesus’ coming into the world, of the “Word made flesh” and dwelling among us, is to reveal God and His grace to the world through Jesus’ life and teaching, but also through his suffering, death, and resurrection.

To reflect this emphasis, originally Advent was a time of penitence and fasting, much as the Season of Lent and so shared the color of Lent. In the four weeks of Advent the third Sunday came to be a time of rejoicing that the fasting was almost over (in some traditions it is called Gaudete Sunday, from the Latin word for “rejoice”). The shift from the purple of the Season to pink or rose for the third Sunday Advent candles reflected this lessening emphasis on penitence as attention turned more to celebration of the season. Churches other than Anglican have changed colors and emphasis on the whole wreath, we remain true to tradition. Maybe we are just slow learners or not so open to change for change’ sake.

The word Advent means “coming” or “arrival. ” The focus of the entire season is the celebration of the birth of Jesus the Christ in his First Advent, and the anticipation of the return of Christ the King in his Second Advent. Thus, Advent is far more than simply marking a 2,000 year old event in history. It is celebrating a truth about God, the revelation of God in Christ whereby all of creation might be reconciled to God. That is a process in which we now participate, and the consummation of which we anticipate. Scripture reading for Advent will reflect this emphasis on the Second Advent, including themes of accountability for faithfulness at His coming, judgment on sin, and the hope of eternal life. In this double focus on past and future, Advent also symbolizes the spiritual journey of individuals and a congregation, as they affirm that Christ has come, that He is present in the world today, and that He will come again in power. That acknowledgment provides a basis for Kingdom ethics, for holy living arising from a profound sense that we live “between the times” and are called to be faithful stewards of what is entrusted to us as God’s people. So, as the church celebrates God’s entry into history in the Incarnation, and anticipates a future consummation to that history for which “all creation is groaning awaiting its redemption”, it also confesses its own responsibility as a people commissioned to “love the Lord your God with all your heart” and to “love your neighbor as yourself. ”

The near future, as well as Next Sunday

10 December 2017 – Second Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

17 December 2017 – Third Sunday in Advent – Holy Communion – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

24 December 2017 – Christmas Eve and Fourth Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

25 December 2017 – Christmas Day – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

[1] If you would like to know what the liturgical year is all about, there is an explanation near the end of this report.

[2] Remember, Screwtape is one of the Devil’s minions, a supervisor at that, so when he advises his student what to do, it is the polar opposite of what God wants. In his case, God is The Enemy! The patient? That is YOU!

[3] Sometimes quoted as a reason for the church not to have rummage sales, the sellers were thrown out as they were cheating the people, selling the one legged sparrow in the morning as a “perfect specimen of an unblemished dove” without fault for a sacrifice, then reselling the same sparrow in the afternoon. They were indeed making the temple a den of thieves rather than a place of worship.

[4] It is not that worldly wealth is, in and of itself, bad, but rather the attitude it can bring, one of self-worth beyond that which is correct. Wealth often brings to us a “better than thou” attitude, which soon turns to “Holier than thou.” The kind of thing that was referred to when Jesus said, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” Mark 10.25

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