240505 AOC Sunday Report

Anglican Orthodox Church Worldwide Communion

Fifth Sunday after Easter commonly called Rogation Sunday – Sunday Report

This is the Fifth Sunday after Easter; the Easter season is five Sundays, the last of which, the Fifth Sunday after Easter, is commonly called Rogation Sunday. Like every day, today we celebrate the resurrection of Christ, “Christ the Lord IS Risen today!”

Rogation Sunday

The fifth Sunday after Easter is commonly called Rogation Sunday from the words in the Gospel appointed for the day: “Whatever you ask the Father in my name, he will give to you”. (The Latin is ‘Rogare’ – to ask.) In the strictly biblical context, the chief thing to ask for is the spirit of God to enable us to be true children of God.

In the Western Catholic Churches, including the older Anglican traditions particularly before the Reformation and in some higher churches afterwards, processions to bless the crops and to include “beating the bounds”, developed from the old Roman rites of “Robigalia” (“robigo”: Latin for “rust” or “mould”), when prayers would be offered to the deity for crops to be spared from mildew.

Today the emphasis has shifted. Asking for God’s blessing on growing crops in fields and gardens, and on young lambs and calves remain. In the agricultural cycle, the main themes are seed sowing and the tending of the young plants and animals. This does not pre-suppose that all sowing takes place around Rogation. Sowing is done all the year round, as does the birth and rearing of the young. It is convenient to fix on one particular festival the time to remember these before God in a public way.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Rogation Sunday takes place in the springtime, when there is a renewing of the earth. In this country, it follows Easter, the season of resurrection. Renewal and resurrection therefore are also underlying themes of this occasion.

But, there is far more to the day than that. The real meaning is in rogare. If you don’t ask, you won’t get. You have to ask God in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for what you want so that you can get what you need. You have to ask. Then, once you get what you need, act of the gift and thank God for that gift.

The main thing to remember is “Ask and ye shall receive.” For, if you do not ask, you cannot receive.

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, but overall mostly from Bryan. He always has some great ones to share. On to the On Point quotes –

The Church today?

Now go, write it before them in a table, and note it in a book, that it may be for the time to come for ever and ever: that this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD: which say to seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: get you out of the way, turn aside out of the path, cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us.

Isaiah 30:8-11

That was then, how about today?

I think myself that we have more machinery of government than necessary, too many parasites living on the labor of the industrious.

Thomas Jefferson

18^th century American patriot and president

It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains.

Patrick Henry

18^th century American founding father and patriot

The world will never elect to follow Christ in the Way, the Truth, and the Life. It will always prefer a perversion over purity… When civilizations or nations seek to follow men instead of God, there always follows tyranny and oppression.

Jerry L. Ogles

20^th and 21^st century Anglican Orthodox Presiding Bishop

Whenever we are planning for posterity, we ought to remember that virtue is not hereditary.

Thomas Paine

18^th century American patriot

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

John 10:27-29

For we walk by faith, not by sight.

II Corinthians 5:7

Christ is like a lighthouse whose brilliant beam guides us around the shoals of sin.

Bryan Dabney

AOC Minister

When heaven and earth pass away, when all flesh and the glory of it wither as grass, the word of the Lord endures forever. Those whose happiness is bound up on Christ’s righteousness and salvation will have the comfort of it when time and days shall be no more.

Matthew Henry

17^th and 18^th century English pastor and author

God by his grace will keep thee from disquieting, distrustful fear— that fear which hath torment— in the midst of the greatest dangers. Wisdom shall keep thee from being causelessly afraid, and faith shall keep thee from being inordinately afraid.

Rev Matthew Henry

17^th and 18^th Century English pastor and author

Vain Repetition or Fervent Prayer?

When we often repeat the Lord’s Prayer, the Prayer of Collect, and, indeed, all others of the Common Prayer Book, let us do so with an attentive realization of the meaning, and not simply with vain repetition. To pray the Lord’s Prayer, for example, without considering its depth of meaning, is to use the Lord’s name in vain.

Jerry L. Ogles

20^th and 21^st century Anglican Orthodox Presiding Bishop.

History

History is what happened, not what someone says happened after changing the narrative to what they wish happened. Those who are ignorant of history are doomed to repeat it. Why do you think so much math is taught in school and so little history?

Bp LTC Hap Arnold

Why History is Important

Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.

George Orwell

1984

You can resolve to live your life with integrity. Let your credo be this: Let the lie come into the world, let it even triumph. But not through me.

Alexander Solzhenitsyn

20^th and 21^st century Russian author

Propers

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

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

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

The Propers for today are found on Page 175-176, with the Collect first:

The Collect for The Fifth Sunday after Easter,

commonly called Rogation Sunday.

The Collect.

LORD, from whom all good things do come; Grant to us thy humble servants, that by thy holy inspiration we may think those things that are good, and by thy merciful guiding may perform the same; through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Epistle for today came from the First Chapter of the General Epistle of Saint James beginning at the Twenty-Second Verse. Saint James tells us not to just talk about being Christians, but to act on those beliefs and do things. We act in accordance with the principles set forth by Christ. We gain our salvation through the freely given gift of Grace by our Lord Jesus Christ. Once given, and accepted; if we truly accept the gift, it will be evident in our actions.

Saint James reminds us we not only must:

Talk the Talk;

but

Walk the Walk.

We do not gain eternal life and salvation by our good works here on earth, but only by the Grace of God, through His Son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Through Christ our sins are atoned for that we might go to heaven. True enough, but we demonstrate our attempt to follow his instructions by our works here on earth. Remember, it is by only by our actions we are we truly known.

E ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

Today’s Holy Gospel came from the Sixteenth Chapter of the Gospel according to Saint John beginning at the Twenty-Third Verse. Jesus told his disciples tat when they pray to the Father, they should ask in His Name and what they asked for would be given. But, you must ask to receive. Jesus told us not to ask Him to pray to the Father, but rather that we pray directly to the Father, asking for what we will in His name, because God loves us because we love Jesus. This explains why most of our prayers end in, “we ask all this in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” or similar words. So, if we are to if we are not to ask Jesus to pray for us, why would we ask “saints” and such. We can talk directly to God and we are supposed to!

Jesus went on to say the forces of this world would scatter the disciples, they would be alone in the world. Yet like Jesus, they would not be abandoned by all; He would be with them, as would the Father. For as always, the Father is with them, as He is with Him; as He is with us.

ERILY, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father. At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: for the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father. His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God. Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe? Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Jerry Ogles

Presiding Bishop

Anglican Orthodox Communion Worldwide

We are oft fortunate to get copies of Bishop Jerry’s sermon notes. Today is one of those Sundays.

As members of the Anglican Orthodox Church Worldwide Communion, Scripture is our primary reference. But, what positions do we take based on that Scripture? We have adopted The Thirty-Nine Articles of Religion. They were not intended as a complete statement of the Christian faith, but of the position of the Anglican Church in relation to the Roman Catholic Church and other Protestant churches.

It is critical you understand the Articles. Bishop Jerry has embarked on a series to cover them starting with an introduction. It is just under 9 minutes, you should take the time to listen to this.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc6cR06ildA

Today’s sermon starts off with the collect, and like always, it will give you a lot to consider in your heart.

Sermon Notes

Rogation Sunday

Anglican Orthodox Church Worldwide

5 May 2024, Anno Domini

The Collect for The Fifth Sunday after Easter,

commonly called Rogation Sunday.

The Collect.

The Collect

There is not a ‘good thing’ on earth, or in the heavens, which does not come from God. You may have a heart brimming with Godly love, but that love, being Godly, came from its source in God. You were first loved by Christ before you ever could love Him. He fills your heart to overflowing as the abundant and gushing waters of a great mountain Spring. It will become a river of life to you and to all to whom those waters come, but they are a resource that is only shared as a gift of God to you and all who drink of the Living Waters. Do we not love the beauty and majesty of the following verse from the Book of James, but have we really believed it? Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. (James 1:17) I have underlined EVERY for emphasis! O LORD, from whom all good things do come.

It is the intent and purpose of Rogation to ask for God’s blessings on the labors of our hands – that they will be performed out of Godly disposition and satisfying to Him.

Are we humble? If not, why risk praying this Collect taking the name of the Lord in vain? Whatsoever we pray without faith and sincerity, we do so in vain. Humility is the first requisite to offering prayers that will be heard and granted. Having put on the Mind of Christ, it is His will that we pray, and not our own. The Christian life is a continual dying to our old self-wills and living in His glorious Will. Grant to us thy humble servants. If we are NOT humble, we need not waste our time in asking. All malice and sinful harbors of the heart nullify our prayers. These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among (Prov 6:16-19)

….that by thy holy inspiration we may think those things which are good, and by thy merciful guiding may perform the same. It is the Inspiration of God that provides light to our dull hearts to think good thoughts. We are incapable of any goodness whatsoever without the inspiration and light of God. This Collect reminds me of the Prodigal Son who took his inheritance early into a far country and squandered all; in riotous living. When he had wasted all, he began to be in want. All of his sunny weather friends had deserted him, and he joined himself to a stranger of that far country. When we go away from the care and will of our Father, we go into a far country and will, in time, be forced to associate ourselves with a stranger of the land who cares not whether we live or die so long as he can use us to our last drop of blood. The stranger (the old man of the world) will horribly abuse us and take no thought at all for our welfare. 15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. 16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. (Luke 15:15-16)

There is only One Right Mind in all the Universe – that of God Almighty. All who reject God and His bountiful benefits are not in their right minds. What man would reject a palatial estate given free grant over the ghetto hovel in which to raise his family? Would he be in his right mind? I say, No! Who, in his right mind, can reject the benefits of salvation, forgiveness, and justification offered by God for the filthy rags of the world’s offerings? If we turn from God, we will find ourselves destitute, even if among worldly treasures. But most often, we will be destitute of mind, body, and soul without the comforts of life. Before we can improve our lot, we must come to our right minds as the Prodigal did: 17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! (Luke 15:17) When God gives us the inspiration to see our plights in true form, we will see to what misery and depths we have sunk. We are most poor in our journey into a Far Country that separates us from our Father in Heaven: …by thy holy inspiration we may think those things which are good.

Recognizing our alienation from the green pastures of God is not sufficient to restore us to our Shepherd’s care – we must resolve to leave the pig sty and return to our Lord. 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. (Luke 15:18-19) We must, firstly, recognize what depraved sinners we are; secondly, we must resolve to do something about it; and, thirdly, we must act on our resolution to confess to the Father. If you thought you ever were WORTHY to be a son or daughter of God, think again. There are none righteous – no not one! (Romans 3:10) It is the loving Grace of the Father that makes us His sons and daughters. So the Prodigal first of all recognizes his depravity; he then resolves to go to the Father and confess – giving up all presumed privileges simply to have a place in His household; and he then follows through with action. Resolution without following through with action to that resolution is of no benefit at all. So what does our Prodigal now do? 20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. 22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet (Luke 15:20-22) Do you believe the Father does not see you in the far country? Yes, He does, but He will not force you back home. You must return, just as you left, of your own accord. After making his resolution, the Prodigal put feet on his intentions. The Father recognizes us on the horizon as long as we are coming TO Him. Even though we are covered with the filth and stench of the pig sty, dressed in rags, and bowed with care, yet He still recognizes us even from that great distance. This is our Prayer of Collect for Rogation: ….that by thy holy inspiration we may think those things which are good, and by thy merciful guiding may perform the same. We must perform those things that we know are in the Will of God for us, mustn’t we. We cannot be lazy believers.

If we expect a favorable response to our prayer, we must take advantage of the Perfect Advocate (Attorney) which we have with the Father – the Lord Jesus Christ. We ask all things through Him, and, if we have asked with that same Mind and Purpose of Christ, we shall receive.

HEN will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. 26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. 28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. 29 I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you. 30 And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen. 31 Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations. 32 Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord GOD, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel. 33 Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities I will also cause you to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded. 34 And the desolate land shall be tilled, whereas it lay desolate in the sight of all that passed by. 35 And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced, and are inhabited. 36 Then the heathen that are left round about you shall know that I the LORD build the ruined places, andplant that that was desolate: I the LORD have spoken it, and I will do it. 37 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet for this be enquired of by the house of Israel, to do it for them; I will increase them with men like a flock. 38 As the holy flock, as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts; so shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men: and they shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezek 36:25-38). (taken from the OT lectionary text for Evening Prayer)

The Sermon

Have you ever tried to clean a really filthy basin by starting on the outside? Which is more important for our health, the cleanliness of the outside of the basin or the inside? If we start by cleaning the outside first, we may find that the outside will become just as soiled as before when we begin cleaning the inside later. If a plumbing fixture in our house is clogged, do we clean the outside and surrounding environment first, or do we unclog the fixture first and then clean the outside?

God works in the same way – he cleans our hearts so that the outside may be cleaned with the sprinkling of water. By the outward sprinkling of water shall the outward sign of cleansing be made. That inward, spiritual grace of the Sacrament occurs in the heart. The whole being of man, as well as his eternal destiny depends more on the condition of his heart than does the life of his body. When God abides in our hearts, there will be left no room for idols or perversions. 25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. 26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. The old, malicious and legal heart of stone must be replaced by a heart of tender flesh. What does this mean to the Christian? How do we receive this new Spirit and this new Heart?

We receive this New Heart by genuinely professing a true faith and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. We must know, by faith, that He has died in payment of our sin debt, that He was buried and rose again on the third day, and that He sits on the right hand of God the Father to make constant intercession on our behalf. It is our faith and our believing that will open the DOOR (Jesus Christ) of the Sheepfold to us. Our faith cannot be fickle if it is to be saving. It must be a somber and earnest faith that Christ is Savior, Redeemer, Lord, and King of our lives. He will be a God of the Sunday Lord’s Day only, but the Lord of the continual seven-days-a-week Sabbath. 27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. Wherever Christ is, there will also be the Holy Spirit. If Christ is in our hearts, the Holy Spirit will take possession and drive out the spirits of lust, greed, and deception. We come to obey God, not through the compulsion of legality and Laws engraved on Tables of Stone, but out of that Law of Love that is written in Crimson on the soft sinews of our hearts. Not only will we avoid doing evil (keep my judgments), but we will not commit, as the General Confession states, sins of omission by seeking good to do toward others.

28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. Which land…Canaan? No, not at all. He will give us that land which Moses entered from atop the heights of Mt. Nebo. Moses looked over into Canaan, but was taken to be with God instead of going to Canaan. The next time Moses appears in Scripture, he is on the Mount of Transfiguration with Jesus and Elijah. This is a beautiful illustration of the complete Word of God. Elijah represents the Prophets and Moses the Law. Both together represent the whole of the Old Testament. Christ represents the consummation of the long thirsted after Purpose of God by crowning both the Law and the Prophets with the Grace and Mercy of His Person. The Law and the Prophets are not separate from Christ, but are an integral part of His revelation in the fullness of the Scriptures. The old school was given to teach us to know our frailty and depravity. They both prepared the hearts of man for the coming Savior who would redeem us from those frailties of a sinful nature.

29 I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you. 30 And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen. Do you, or do you not belief, that Christ is the Lord of the Harvest? We cannot wash our robes as the NIV version claims in Revelation 22:14 – “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.” (Rev 22:14) (NIV) Only God can wash us, and only Christ can provide that White Robe of Righteousness typified by the returning prodigal’s father. God will call for the Harvest and increase our yields by the same Voice that spoke Light into existence on the first day of Creation. He will forestall the famine and pestilence from afflicting our fields. He will make our way straight and not narrow.

31 Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations. This is the dawn of first-light in the soul called to God – to recognize, with tears of repentance, their true natures that have been at enmity to God. It is important – very important – that we remember from what swamps of sin from which we have been drawn out. It is important that we despise our sins and our complicity with it. We have looked at the murderous Cain, the adulterous and murderous King David, the treachery of Judas, the profligacy of Herod – and we have seen ourselves as if by looking in a mirror. That mirror is the Word of God. It reveals our total hopelessness without a Redeemer.

32 Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord GOD, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel. God does not act to amend our characters and redeem our souls for the benefit of the sinful soul that we are at the Calling, but of the virtuous character that the former thief, robber, liar, murderer and adulterer may acquire through the efficacious working of God’s Holy Spirit. Thankfully, God never beholds us as what we currently are, but what we may become under the comforting and gentle influence of His Holy Spirit.

Though these passages have a reference to that fallen Israel of the Old Testament, it has an even more relevant meaning to that new Israel of Promise expressed in Romans, Galatians, and other parts of NT Scripture. That new Israel is the same Israel to which Abraham laid claim all the way back in Genesis.

33 Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day that I shall have cleansed you from all your iniquities I will also cause you to dwell in the cities, and the wastes shall be builded. 34 And the desolate land shall be tilled, whereas it lay desolate in the sight of all that passed by. 35 And they shall say, This land that was desolate is become like the garden of Eden; and the waste and desolate and ruined cities are become fenced, and are inhabited. Though the Jewish nation-state of modern Israel has reclaimed land that has lain in waste for centuries, the state does not meet the descriptive marks of the Israel of God – neither racially nor nationally. There is no place on earth today that can compare with the Garden of Eden. The desolate and ruined cities are still desolate and lie in ruins. The miracle of that nation which claims God as its Lord will certainly produce a greater wealth of faith and virtue than that war-torn little acre in the Middle East. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. (Psalm 33:12) If we attempt to force any description of the people of God other than those who have believed and accepted the Promise, we labor in vain. God’s people are not a people of a certain race or nationally, but those who have received the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior. Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. (1 Tim 1:4) and But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. (Titus 3:9)

In the process of blessing His people, either nationally (as in the great history of the once-Godly nation), or individually, the unbelievers are always amazed at our resilience and joy in peace as well as in moments of trial. 36 Then the heathen that are left round about you shall know that I the LORD build the ruined places, and plant that that was desolate: I the LORD have spoken it, and I will do it. He blesses always, without distinction of race, that nation bearing the fruits of righteousness. Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance. (Psalm 33:12) All peoples of the earth – Jews, Gentiles, blacks, whites, Asians, Indians, men, women – all have had the DOOR opened to the redeeming blood of Christ.

37 Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will yet for this be enquired of by the house of Israel, to do it for them; I will increase them with men like a flock. It is to be prayed and hoped for that God will bring the modern Jewish nation into the fold of believers. But it is not consistent with the nature and Word of God to bring them into God’s fold as a people who cling to the legal system of ancient days, or sacrifice lambs and bulls for a remission of sin. When they ACCEPT, and not REJECT, Christ, they have assurance of being reconciled to God. In remonstrating with the rulers of Israel in the Temple, Jesus was clear in His warning to them: Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof. (Matt 21:43) What nation? ANY nation that bears the fruits of the Gospel faith.

38 As the holy flock, as the flock of Jerusalem in her solemn feasts; so shall the waste cities be filled with flocks of men: and they shall know that I am the LORD. Thus shall the Lord bring to pass His Kingdom in the Latter Day. The waste cities shall, indeed, be filled wherever the Gospel of Christ is preached and received by the people of that land. The vast stretches of prairie and meadow of America lay in waste for centuries until a people, bearing the cross of Christ, came seeking religious liberty. Then were the waste places filled and the land knew the Lord. Such a prosperous people were never before known in the world, nor since that Godly nation dominated the continent. Can we restore the Bright Hope of Liberty? The same can happen to any people until such time as the Lord draws the curtain of time down on our human undertakings.

Jack Arnold

Bishop of the Diocese of the West – AOC USA

Church of the Faithful Centurion

Anglican Orthodox Church Worldwide

Director of Education and Training

Bp Jack brings the Collect, Epistle and Gospel together because as is always the case there is a unifying message in the Scripture for this Sunday. Bp Jack’s sermon can be viewed on video HERE -> https://youtu.be/aXPWZoFF6DI

Good morning! I hope you are all doing well. In today’s sermon we will be looking at the unifying message of the Collect, Epistle and Gospel and examine how they share a common message of action as we continue to celebrate Jesus’ delivery of the promise of life eternal with Him in our life to come. Easter, perhaps better referred to as the Day of the Resurrection is when the promise of eternal life is delivered.

Let’s start by reading the Collect for today:

The Collect for The Fifth Sunday after Easter,

commonly called Rogation Sunday.

The Collect.

We are in the Easter Season which consists of Easter and the following four Sundays, through Rogation Sunday. This is a time we should work on centering our lives on the central figure in our religion, Jesus Christ.

Consider these words from the Collect:

… by thy holy inspiration we may think those things that are good, and by thy merciful guiding may perform the same …

As we near the Ascension and thus Pentecost and the arrival of the Holy Ghost, we ask for God’s “holy inspiration we may think those things that are good.” The collect is pointing out that we are in sore need of help from the Holy Ghost to direct our souls to the things we cannot see as good without His Help. It is very clear that we cannot think those things that are good without the guiding force of the Holy Ghost entering into our hearts, souls and minds. Once we think those good thoughts, we need His “merciful guiding” so we “may perform the same…”. After all, what good is it to know what we should do, if we won’t, can’t or don’t do it? It is not good enough just to think those good thoughts, we need to back up those good thoughts with actions! The collect is calling us to perform actions for Him, to translate those good thoughts into actions, which are physical evidence of our belief!

In short we need God’s help to think good thoughts and then to act upon those good thoughts which when translated into action are good deeds. The point of the Collect is without God’s help, we cannot think or do anything that is truly righteous. Only by having God help us are we capable of any righteous actions.

In his Epistle, James makes the point we gain our salvation through the freely given gift of Grace by our Lord Jesus Christ. Once given, it must be accepted. If we truly accept the gift, it will be evident in our actions. James makes the point that if you are going to be a Christian you have to ACT like a Christian. We are not just to think good and Christian thoughts, we are called to live out those thoughts by our actions to make our faith known to other believers and the world. A person who calls themselves a Christian can and will talk the talk or portions thereof, but will they walk the walk? That is the real test if they are a Christian or not. That is how you can tell also if a “Christian” minister, bishop, or priest is a Christian or not. If their actions do not match that of Scripture, then you can be fairly well certain that they are not Christian. We have to back up our faith with actions in order to show that we do indeed have faith. As the tag line to my sermons goes, action and not diction is what counts in the very end.

Like many concepts found in Christianity, backing up our faith with actions will be very difficult sometimes, but it must be done. The diction is almost always easier than the action part, but both have to be performed. Doing both of these is the only way we will have salvation through Christ. We cannot have salvation if we say we are for Him, but our actions profess otherwise. Fortunately we will have the help of the Holy Ghost to help us walk the walk and talk the talk. It will still be difficult but it will be easier than if we did not have the Holy Ghost within us.

We must align our lives to be able to show people we do follow Christ. There are too many people who claim to be Christians, who are clearly not, because their lives do not reflect their stated belief. We must not let this happen. We must show the truth of John 14:6, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. To show this truth we have to live that truth through our actions. It is not just enough to say we know the Word of God, if we truly know the Word of God, we will act upon that Word of God and serve Him in this life.

Without Christ’s guiding light, we are not on the path to holiness and righteousness. We must show this in our lives, by living and breathing His Word, and using His Word to guide us throughout our lives. These are all actions we naturally take which demonstrate we have belief and are acting upon that belief. This is important to our souls for our spiritual health, and as well as our physical health too. We need all the Help of the Holy Ghost to keep us on this path. How do we keep on this path?

We find a lot of help in John’s words, he gives us insight into things which none of the other disciples do. We need help. We pray for help. Pray for help that we might act, and that is how we keep on the straight, narrow and uphill path. So, what about prayer? Let’s start with to whom do we pray?

Jesus is pretty clear. Don’t pray to Him, pray to God. We are not to pray to saints or Mary like the some do, but pray to God. Feel free to use His Name. Pray to God in His Name. In effect, we are CC’ing (Carbon Copying, to use an archaic term which as transitioned to an electronic mail (email) term) Jesus in our prayers. We are not to put Him in the To: line, but the CC line. Not addressing Him directly, but to address God directly with Jesus copied, as it were. He tells us God loves us because we love Jesus. But, pray to God. I think not many people understand this part of scripture, as I have heard people pray to Jesus when he is not the correct person to address your prayers to. He specifically tells us to direct the prayers to His Father who will help us.

If we will pray to God, we can be certain He will answer us and provide us with the best counsel. It doesn’t matter if we like God’s answer or not, we still have to listen to it and do it anyway, knowing it will be the right path in the end. In the end, listening to God and doing what He says will be easier for us in the long run than if we ignore God’s answer and do what we wish to do. We will always have some sort of a struggle with this in our lives, but if we turn to God, He will help us win our struggle.

We have to realize what we truly need is different from what we want, and ask that He will open our hearts, minds and souls to His answer that we might act upon His answer. The critical portion is we act upon the answer that we are given, to do our best for Him so our friends, family and coworkers and neighbors might see the light we shine for Him and see who we follow in word and in deed.

So, pray to God, ask for what you want in Jesus’ Name. He always listens and He always delivers. The problem for us is He delivers what we need, not necessarily what we want. Our wants and our needs are oft different, in fact they are seldom the same. But we should want what we need, and God will help us understand if we be a doer and a hearer of His Word. He will always give us what we need, but will we listen to what He wants us to do?

Need and want, they are both four letter words, oft used interchangeably, which do not mean the same thing.

God’s Will is always done, we just don’t understand. Accept what happens as acceptable, so long as you have done all you can. In the end, all that counts is where you go when you leave here. That depends on your actions in following Jesus’ instructions. If you believe, you are safe. Now and forever.

Talk the Talk;

AND

Walk the Walk.

It is 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

Yves M. Méra

Presiding Bishop – AOC France

Anglican Orthodox Church Worldwide

We are fortunate to have a sermon from the Presiding Bishop of the Anglican Orthodox Church of France and the Administrative Coordinator of Europe and Africa. As you will read, he is an excellent writer. The sermon is easy to read and provides much insight.

Fifth Sunday after Easter

The courage to preach

James 1:22-27 • John 16:23b-33.

The distressing news for Christ’s followers is piling up: not only does Christ announce His departure, but He warns the group of His Apostles that they will soon be separated, left alone and isolated in a world hostile to them: They know what the world is capable of. They saw how Jesus was betrayed, abused, beaten, humiliated, crucified, killed. And since He is resurrected, they finally recognize His divinity (John 16:30): “Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God.” It is a beautiful statement of faith, but they are not yet convinced of their eternal fate: they are not from God even though they are of God, and they doubt their own resurrection, as well as the assistance of the Holy Spirit in their future ministry, for they have never seriously experienced this assistance. Their real ministry hasn’t even begun, so far!

In Mark 3:13-15, this assistance of the Holy Spirit was acquired even before the choice of the Twelve: “And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him whom he would: and they came unto him. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils” Soon after, Jesus sent them on a course of discovery, but not alone in the wild (Mark 6:7): “And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits” And they set about the task that Christ had given them (Mark 6:12-13): “And they went out, and preached that men should repent. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed them.” Note in passing that they did not limit themselves to praying for the healing of the sick: they observed the rite of anointing with oil, and they were not ashamed of it. This anointing with oil was intended to show that healing did not come from the disciples, but from God Himself (1 Samuel 10:1): “Then Samuel took a vial of oil, and poured it upon his head, and kissed him, and said, Is it not because the LORD hath anointed thee to be captain over his inheritance?” It is God who gives the anointing, through His ministers. As in every sacrament, especially in baptism, it is God in three persons who acts. And since everything God does is perfect, you can’t go back on it. It is the same with Holy Communion: when Christ is present in our midst, He remains there; it can no longer be driven out (Revelation 3:20b): “… if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.”

But anointing with oil without prayer is worthless. It would be a lubrication, as a mechanic greases the cogs of the transmission of a car; But it’s the engine that provides the power – not the oil. And the engine crankcase is filled with oil, which is not incompatible with the power that emanates from it, quite the contrary. The oil is only the material sign of the spiritual anointing given by the Holy Spirit, simultaneously. Seriously, we should not make fun of what God does, nor how He does it, as He has commanded it (1 Samuel 9:16): “To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt anoint him to be captain over my people Israel”

Did not Our Lord Jesus Christ allow Himself to be anointed by Mary Magdalene for His burial? (Luke 7:37-38): “And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.” The real or supposed holiness of the minister is less important than the perfect holiness of God acting in the sacrament. This is not a view frequently found in the world, even among observant Jews (Luke 7:39): “Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner.” To which Jesus replies, “Sweep your own door!” (Luke 7:44-48): “And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.” And there you go! Pick that up!

Without prayer, an anointing is just an oiling, as if to prepare and facilitate a massage. Jesus tells us that the power is in God the Father, for He is Almighty (John 16:23b): “… Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.” But why do we have to use the name of Jesus Christ? Because the word ‘Christ’ means and designates the One who has received the anointing. Christ is our bishop, and it is He who consecrates His elect.

And Jesus continues in verse 24: “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” Stop! Wait a minute Mr. Preacher, please! What is the joy in this passage of the Gospel, at a time when the sadness of the Twelve dominates and when they are crushed by anguish and apprehension about their future, which they see all dull and black? To put it simply, if Christ will no longer be physically with them, He will be spiritually present with each of them, even left alone. Christ will make himself invisible in order to multiply Himself better. Our Lord Jesus Christ is God, and God is everywhere. Seeing Him is less important than feeling His presence and witnessing the miracles that He performs according to His will, when they are asked of Him in His name, according to the liturgical form He imposes on His disciples (John 16:26-28): “At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.” What can we answer Jesus but what the Twelve said to Him in verse 30: “Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God.”

Seeing that His apostles feel somewhat comforted, Jesus goes on to tell a rather acidic truth (verses 31-33): “Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe? Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. ” ye shall be scattered, each on his own” but if Christians believe in Jesus Christ, they will overcome the world as Christ overcame the same. For the peace Jesus gives is not a temporary armistice, but on the contrary a definitive resurrection in another world of peace and love, very different from today’s world. This encourages us in our daily struggle against evil, temptation and persecution!

Having thus comforted the Twelve, Our Lord Jesus Christ begins His priestly prayer of John 17 by beginning with the promise of eternal life given to the Father’s elect (John 17:1-3): “These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” Curiously, Christ seems to be doubling Himself by speaking of Himself in the third person: “… and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” In this way He dictates to the Twelve a useful liturgical formula for asking and praying “in His Name”. Notice in passing the delicacy of Jesus when He teaches us: far from leaving us in doubt, He suggests the required formulations, as if not seeming to give us a lesson, but in passing, without seeming to touch it. His Word is so effective by itself that He needs not to insist. And the Holy Spirit convinces the disciples directly and simply, without the need for parables, even if we love parables, just as little children love to be told stories of knights and fairy tales (John 16:25): “These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.” The Twelve are now ready. Finally, Christ speaks to them as to adults. My friends, are you adults before Christ our only Lord and Savior? Are you old enough to be talked to like adults, and to take your own responsibilities before God, without needing to be hounded every time? Yes? Good boys and girls!

The Epistle of James exhorts us to do that, precisely: Let us assume our responsibilities by practicing not only the rites of the Church, instituted by Christ our Lord, but also by putting into practice the love that the Holy Spirit has put in us (James 1:21b-22): “… receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” Words only and void words! These are the sermons that are not confirmed by deeds. We preach by word and by our behavior, by the example of Christian life we set to others.

Let us not admire ourselves in the mirror as if to disguise what we really are, or to imitate what we ought to be: “For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was” (James 1:23-24). But let us give a good testimony of obedience to the Law of God, the Ten Commandments, and the Law of Love taught and applied by Christ, who submitted to them even to give His life on an ugly cross. Do you now understand what it means to “carry one’s cross”? It is a matter of obeying the divine Law, far from human respect, calmly enduring jeers and mockery, with our eyes fixed on the eternity promised BY Jesus Christ, WITH Him and IN Him.

Let us honestly do all that our duty requires us to do, and we shall have the happiness of pleasing God (James 1:25): “But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.” Even if we don’t succeed every time, we are happy to know that we have done our best to please God, like Jesus Himself did (John 8:28-29): “Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.”

It is not a matter of pretending, like the hypocritical Pharisees who so easily criticize the weak and the simple with their viper’s tongues, without lifting a finger for them, while imagining they are perfect themselves (James 1:26): “If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” Did you hear that right? Outward religiosity, or the appearance of piety, is vain. Worse still, it is a sin of pride. It does not give eternal life. Is that clear enough?

This is why James sends us to comfort these same weak and simple Christians: that is, the lonely, especially orphans and good widows (James 1:27): “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” Let us rejoice with those who rejoice; Let us weep with those who mourn, but let us watch over ourselves so that we do not sin.

My friends, let us not imitate the world, but imitate Christ, our only Lord and Saviour, that we may save others by participating in the heavenly sorting of those whom the Eternal Father has chosen for His glory alone, even before the foundation of the world. Amen.

Yves Méra, AOC Bishop for France.

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.

The Fifth Sunday after Easter,

commonly called Rogation Sunday

In today’s Gospel, our Lord makes parting remarks to the disciples prior to his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane. Even though they had just expressed their belief in his divine nature, our Lord questioned their faith saying, Do ye believe? The meaning is patently obvious. He knew their faith was weak and it hung on only so long as he was in their presence. He was about to be taken from them in a few hours, and afterwards, they would flee from him in fear for their own lives. He even tells them so, but not to condemn them. No, such was to serve as a reminder for them later, that they might have his peace which would assist them in facing the trials which lay ahead. He then concluded our lesson with these words: In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

But what did he mean by this last remark? The eminent Christian pastor and author, Matthew Henry, once opined that, “It is the will of Christ that his disciples should have peace within, whatever their troubles may be without. Peace in Christ is the only true peace, and in him alone believers have it.”

Tribulation is often defined as trouble, suffering or affliction. Our Lord foresaw the troubles which lay before him, as St. Paul explained concerning his sacrifice, …who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds (Hebrews 12:2-3). Our Lord saw before him the joy of being once again seated next to the Father. He looked beyond the pain and shame of the cross to that glorious moment when he would come again into the heavenly precincts, having won the victory for his elect over the powers of sin and death.

Still the notion of tribulation, or trouble in this life, is unsettling because no one likes to be troubled in spirit, much less in the body. Sadly, few will appeal to God through Christ to take away their troubles. They are not willing to receive that peace which God offers to assist them in coping with whatever troubles they are facing. God calls his own to be patient, and to rest in him. God desires us to wait upon him for he has our best interests at heart. Consider the words of Moses to the children of Israel at the shores of the Red Sea, Fear not. Stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD! (Exodus 14:13) God will indeed be there for us if we are willing to be there for him— by patiently waiting on him to act. Nevertheless, such is often difficult for us to do, especially when we are in the midst of tribulation. For it is in those moments that our human nature calls on us to do everything but wait upon the LORD.

Many more times than we would like to admit, a good portion of our troubles and afflictions were brought on as a result of our own negligence and trespass. Do we enquire of our own selves concerning whether or not we had a hand in their creation? Too often, God is slighted by those who have set the stage for their own troubles and then blame him when he does not end their suffering.

Additionally, it might be of interest to note God uses trouble and tribulation to bring about our growth in the faith. He tests us and guides us because he has a purpose for us. He also uses such to keep us humble. As Daniel (4:1-37) wrote of King Nebuchadnezzar, we are tempted by the wicked forces of this world to see ourselves as the author of our own good fortune. We may stand and survey the comforts and successes of the moment as being of our own efforts as we resist giving God the glory. It is then that God takes away those things which we have so pridefully attributed to our mere efforts. And as he strips away our vain thoughts, he also takes away those idols which we had erected to take his place in our hearts. He will bring us to our knees seeking his forgiveness for our sins.

Nevertheless, some are stiff-necked and will no doubt blame God for their troubles. But before one sets his or her mind on blaming God for their problems, ponder this: If God did not love you, he would let you march right on your merry way out of his divine protection and into an eternity of separation from him. Therefore, count it all for joy when you lose your idols. For if you are placing anything ahead of the Godhead, you are in idolatry, and God does not tolerate idolaters.

Our Lord encouraged the disciples to be of good cheer because he had overcome the world. We need to be of the same mind. So when trouble and tribulation come, we should remember the greater good which lies before us in the God’s kingdom, and be cheered in our hearts knowing that he has won for us the victory over all tribulation and trouble. If we are regenerated beings in Christ, we will have the seal of God upon our foreheads. When he comes again, we will hear his voice and instantly recognize it. What joy there will be for all born-again believers in Jesus Christ. It will be beyond any expression other than a shout. The pains and sorrows of this life will fade away never to return to our memory as God will wipe away every tear and comfort and bind up our various hurts so that we are perfected in body and in spirit.

God did not intend for his own to suffer from the ill effects of sin. Nevertheless, we are told that in this world we will have tribulation and trouble. Therefore, keep yourselves wholly unto the Lord, and lean not upon the flesh. Keep your spiritual armor on and in good condition. I remember when I was a soldier, I was told that my weapon and equipment would save my life, and that of my fellow soldiers. We were admonished at every turn to clean and care for them daily. Tarnish and rust were our enemies as much as any adversary we would likely face. The same is true for the regenerate believer. As St. Paul noted in II Corinthians 13:5, Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? Self-judgment follows self-examination. As the old expression goes, “Better make sure that you are on the right side of the river” is sage advice for a regenerate Christian. The unregenerate and the reprobate do not have a clue about where they are in relation to God. So when tribulations come, they are overwhelmed by them. Nevertheless we know that when we face such, we have a friend in Jesus Christ who will assist and guide us through the valley of the shadow of death to green pastures and still waters.

What a God!

What a Saviour!

Let us pray,

ATHER, give us minds and hearts that are truly inclined to do thy will; and that via our witness, others might see and be turned into thy fold; for this we ask in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

Have a blessed week,

Bryan+

Rev Stephen Cooper

Church of the Redeemer

Fairbanks, Alaska

From time to time we are fortunate to receive a sermon from Rev Cooper in Fairbanks Alaska. The head of our northernmost church, Stephen is a brilliant and inspiring speaker. I wish we had video of him rather than just audio; but I am confident you will enjoy this. This sermon is for last week, Fourth Sunday after Easter. Please take the time to listen to it.

https://youtu.be/V1FX5JXFXUY

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!

Corona Virus

Alan Ridenour’s father was hospitalized on a ventilator with Covid. After almost two months in the hospital, he has recovered to the point he has been released to home. Please join the family in a prayer of thanksgiving and for a full recovery.

Laurie, daughter of Jim and Mary Lou Flanagan has post-Covid lung damage, dizziness, falling, blacking out and loss of time relation. Please pray that they find a cure for these problems for Laurie.

Bill Hall is still having difficulty breathing and with his ability to move about.

Travel

No known travel this week.

Birthdays

Paul Martin celebrated his 73^rd birthday on 24 February 2024.

Greg Harper celebrated his 68^th birthday on 24 February 2024.

Anniversary

Dru and Hap Arnold celebrated their 37^th anniversary on 21 February 2024.

Departed

Ditte left for home to join those who have gone before her on 25 March 2024. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for her family and friends who of necessity remain behind. In particular please pray for her husband Bob and son David as they adjust to life here without her.

Immediate Prayer Please

Roberto Aranda has been diagnosed with leukemia and is having much difficulty. Please pray the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him might pay attention, be open to God’s guidance and do their very best to help him. Please pray also Roberto and his daughter Bianca will be able to let God carry their worry and concern,

Lourie Deboer’s mother has pulmonary fibrosis and is the hospital because she cannot keep her oxygen levels at a sufficient level at home. This is her second time this year. This is deadly serious. Please pray the doctors, nurses and technicians treating her might pay attention, be open to God’s guidance and do their very best to help her. Please pray also Lourie, her son Jakob and her mom might be able to put all their worry and sadness on God’s shoulders so they can do their very best to facilitate what we consider a good outcome. Pray Lourie will compartmentalize this stress and keep it out of the cockpit and other places where she needs to pay attention. Jakob, too for that matter. May they all keep your trust in our Lord and things go well.

Jennifer Hendrickson and her father, Bobby Enfinger, were both diagnosed with cancer. Please pray for peace of mind and soul for them both, and for the medical team treating them that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. Pray also for what we desire as a good result.

Jim Kniffen’s bacterial sinus infections have cleared up however, he is experiencing difficult side effects form the serious antibiotics he took. Furthermore, He is now experiencing extreme fatigue, which is doctor suspects is long-Covid problems from two years ago. Fatigue has been ongoing but increased recently. He continues to rely upon the Lord for his Strength.

Rachael Richards and her daughter, Lydia, were in a very bad car accident on 28 March 2024. They are the wife and daughter of Rev Joshua Richards. Rachael is in intensive care in one hospital and Lydia was treated and released at another hospital. Please pray for peace of mind and soul for the Richards, and for the medical team treating them that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. Pray also for what we desire as a good result.

2133 4 May 2024 Update

It was great to have a day with no scheduled therapies. Rachael was able to rest up, but we still had a few firsts today. Rachael practiced using her walker with me in the room briefly, we went outside twice in the wheelchair which is the first time she went to a building besides a hospital since March, she recorded me twice and listened to me play the piano which helped her sensory and motor skills, and she gave a Gospel tract to the Muslim cashier at the hospital cafe. Most importantly, we were able to have a “date night” of sorts and talk. Physically she still has headaches and back aches, but every day she shows improvement in one way or another. For a praise item, Paul Carpenter came to the rescue again and was able to discover that the water problem at the house we were having was actually due to an incorrect valve that someone had turned on by mistake, causing the “leak”. So when we return home we will have water! There are so many different things that people have offered to do, have said, and given that I will just save a later post for it but we are so thankful and do not deserve anything. The kids are doing well, and Lord willing tomorrow I get to take Isaiah to church. I never thought I would be typing this so soon, but there is the outside chance Rachael could return to church in a matter of weeks! All glory to God!

2120 3 May 2024 Update

The force might have been at the James Cancer center, but the Holy Spirit was with us today at Dodd Hall. In addition to practicing everything laundry related, Rachael’s catscan yesterday was good enough it was decided she no longer needed her IV! Today was her first day without it. No more loud beeping at random hours of the night. She is truly getting better every day. I would say it’s amazing, but honestly it is the prayers and support of all of you that’s making it happen. Praise God for His mercy!

2215 2 May 2024 Update

Rachael had a good day overall, but a little scare in the morning. Her blood pressure was higher than normal, and she was having irregular heartbeats, so she had a catscan. Results are tomorrow, but at the moment it doesn’t seem to be anything serious. Today we practiced getting Rachael in and out of our van, packing up the wheelchair, and lifting her up and down a step. Everyone else is good to my knowledge. Thank you for praying, and especially for all those who responded to my requests in the last post!

2130 1 May 2024 Update

It’s hard to believe it is May already. How ironic May is “mental health awareness month” and here we are. Today, therapies were somewhat slower-paced and more focused on what to prepare for mentally, physically, and emotionally. Rachael had a better day physically, but she was still pretty worn out. The kids are still doing well. God has clearly been seeing us through. Today a nurse asked me if I was an ordained minister. I told her I was, and this provided me with a great opportunity to tell her that our relationship with Jesus and the support we have received is what has helped us navigate this journey. I then went onto explain how the greatest concern we had was for those who Spiritually were lying on the bed hooked up to IV’s because they were not right with God, even if everything looked okay on the outside. She said she agreed and that people who had God in their lives seemed to improve and have a better sense of reality. Praise God for the opportunity to share. While much progress has been made with Rachael, and while we have received an abundance of assistance, my greatest need is for prayer in the following areas coming up in the near future:

We have a major water leak in our backyard and virtually no water pressure as a result, which means no water, no showers, laundry, dishes etc. Please pray I could find someone to fix before we head back home on May 8th.
Our entry way into our bathroom is not wide enough for a wheelchair to fit through as it is an older house; pray Rachael would be able to access with a walker.
Pray I could find a really good system to organize the day, and also a filing system for the mountains of paperwork we have. Caring for 4 people, meals, when to take medicine, diapers, laundry, cooking, cleaning, yard work, one on one time with each person, consistent family worship, church, etc.
Wisdom on how to navigate Rachael’s needs. For Rachael this will be navigating the aftermath of her TBI which in her case means helping her with memory, navigating emotions and the subsequent triggers, working with in home therapists to help her physically, and of course just trying to love her as her husband. What most people don’t understand, is that while in many ways Rachael may appear to be just like her old self she still has a long journey, and there are many things she simply will either not be able to do again, or not do as well or as quickly. While I suspect most of you are sensitive to this, it still goes without saying; please be respectful and patient with both of us in terms of what you say and expect of us in the months and years ahead as it will be a process of trial and error.
Wisdom for navigating the children’s needs. For Isaiah, this would mean being able to have quality one on one time from both parents. He is high energy, and very smart and loves to be around people. For Lydia, she is autistic, so her needs are completely different. She is totally okay being left alone but because she can’t say many words, navigating her sounds and body language will be critical. For Hannah, her greatest need is food . All of them need love from both of us, which means time and energy, and this will certainly be challenging. I certainly will welcome any advice or input on any of the above, or on anything I haven’t mentioned or thought of. And I appreciate all of you who have helped in this way so far.

As always, thank you for praying!

2130 30 April 2024 Update

Therapies, therapies, therapies! Thats how I would describe today. Today Rachael was able to take her first attempt at walking in over a month, in addition to baking chocolate chip muffins! She also practiced transferring getting into and out of a car, writing her own song lyrics and memorizing them, and counting money. All the kids are doing well, and my mom is improving from her covid symptoms. Praise God for more answers to prayer! Thank you for continuing to pray for healing Rachael’s pain and for energy. She will need it; especially this week!

2030 29 April 2024 Update

God is on the move! And apparently, Rachael is also! After a trial run on an exercise machine, Rachael was given a new wheelchair that allows her to control it. She was able to lift herself off the bed, into her chair, into the bathroom, back to her chair, down the hallway, into the elevator, and into the gym for her therapy all without any assistance on my part! Today she was also more alert, and some more of her memory started to come back. She is also eating better! The headaches are still the hardest part, but overall she is doing great. The kids are all doing well. Pray for my mom who is recovering from Covid. Praise God for all the answers to prayer thus far!

2100 28 April 2024 Update

Today marked exactly one month since Rachael was hit in the car accident. She had a great day today, ate better and had slightly less head pain. It’s truly hard to believe how well she has progressed over the last month. She has an intense week of therapies coming up so prayers appreciated for energy and continued progression. Also, prayers appreciated for the upcoming May 8^th discharge day. Many decisions still need to be made. But God has guided the whole time, so even with the uncertainties, there is an inner peace I have that God will work this out as well. I’m glad I got to take Isaiah to worship God with the church today. It is such a blessing to go to a church that not only preaches and teaches strictly Scripture, but is family integrated, allowing children to worship with the families, instead of being separated into age-segregated classes. I’m not faulting churches that don’t offer this; I was, after all an Awana leader for 12 years. However, there is a reason that so many youth leave church. They are used to being spoon fed things that will excite, and entertain them and when they get to adult worship, they get bored and leave the church. In this short clip at the end, you will see Isaiah singing “It is well with my soul”. Children are the heritage of the Lord. Suffer the children to come to Christ! And what better place than corporate worship. This song, especially, will always mean a lot to me since it was the first song that came to my mind when people came to see Rachael the first day she was admitted. Someday, I pray the souls of not just our children, but all who someday repent and trust in Christ alone as the all sufficient Savior, can say in one accord “it is well, with my soul”!

2100 27 April 2024 Update

We are one day away from the day that changed our lives forever. How fitting, then, that today Rachael finally got to see Lydia (the one she saved in the accident). All the kids are doing well and so is Rachael. She still has head pain (the main prayer request) and is low on energy, but she is still improving every day. Thanks be to God!

1930 26 April 2024 Update

Rachael did great today with all her therapies, and today she had an extra one with two eye doctors. Praise report they said both eyes are fine! She did have some nerve damage to her left, but it is possible that within 6-12 months it could correct itself on its own, possibly without surgery! All the kids are doing well also. Praise the Lord for His mercy and grace!

2000 24 April 2024 Update

Rachael had a slow start today, but she ended up doing great and initiated wanting me to take her outside! And she also folded five of her shirts! Thought I would share a video for the update since this was another big milestone for her. Supposedly less than two weeks away from discharge day!Thank you for praying!

2300 24 April 2024 Update

Sorry this is a little late, it was an eventful day! Physical therapy cleared me to lift Rachael in and out of her wheelchair. So no more assistance from nurses! Now we have freedom to leave the room when we want to use bathroom, or go outside etc. She had another great day, stayed awake and alert longer, had pain but didn’t seem to notice it as much. OT had her assemble a small shelf, then had her fold clothes and put them on the shelf. PT had her stand up in a walker and do some exercises. Speech therapy had more of a question and answer session, asking her questions like what was the name of her church, and getting to know her. I’m hearing rumors that OT may start getting ingredients for recipes so Rachael can try cooking next week! The end of the day was highlighted by separate video calls with Isaiah, Lydia, and Hannah. This was the first time Rachael got to talk to Lydia since she saved her in the accident. Other than Isaiah who is having a bad cold, the girls seem to be improving. For prayer, continue to pray that Rachael’s headaches would go away, and for her memory to continue to improve. Lots to praise God for, including the incredibly long list of people who have visited, given cards, given gifts, and prayed. There’s not nearly enough space to list everyone who has helped, just know you are loved. If you are still planning to visit, you can come anytime between 6am-8pm, but the best window of time to visit is 4-7pm as Rachael’s therapies end and she’s had time to rest. PM or text me with any questions

1845 23 April 2024 Update

Rachael did very well today. Briefly sick this morning, otherwise she killed it in all three therapy appointments. Drew a picture with crayons, tried leg stretching exercises, and stayed awake much longer today. I only got updates from Isaiah and Lydia today, but it sounds like they are doing great. She also had a catscan for precautionary purposes, and it was stable. For prayer, pray Rachael’s headaches would go away and the different medicine combinations they are trying would continue to result in less pain. She is making daily progress thanks in part to your support and prayers. Thank you!

1730 22 April 2024 Update

Rachael continues to slowly progress. She rested a lot more today. Was able to play a timed game with occupational therapy with each hand and did very well. She also got to eat breakfast sitting up in her wheelchair. The kids all have various levels of illness, but only Hannah officially tested for Covid. Pray that they would all heal up soon. Not much else to share on my end, other than the Carpenter family seems to be on the mend. Thank you for praying!

1840 21 April 2024 Update

Rachael and I talked on the phone today for first time since accident. She is definitely able to process things better. The doctor gave her a special nasal medicine that seemed to help with some of her head pain (the primary problem). She also still has eye, ear, and back pain. She probably thinks I am a pain too I was able to take Isaiah to church. I think it goes without saying that the support I received was incredible, as expected. Pray for Hannah’s doctor apt tomorrow (Monday), and for Sarah Ballantine’s daughter Nadia’s apt Wednesday. Sarah is watching Lydia. Pray also for healing for the Paul Carpenter family (breathing related), and for energy and patience for both sets of our parents watching Isaiah and Hannah.

1700 20 April 2024 Update

Good day again for Rachael, she ate much better today. She still had pain but not as intense as yesterday. The big news today was she got to see Hannah! Initially Hannah just wanted me to hold her but this gave Rachael a chance to recollect, after the accident, some of the songs she sang to the kids. After awhile she remembered, and Hannah started to warm up to her again. Interestingly, the first song that Rachael sang to her without someone else initiating it was Amazing Grace. Some photos forthcoming but I will share what I have so far. Thank you for praying!

1800 19 April 2024 Update

Rachael did great again today! She was extra tired and sore however she wowed the speech therapist with how well she did from the previous day. I also got to push her in her wheelchair for the first time to an open air of the hospital where she defeated me in a game of connect four. The big news today was Rachael finally got to see Isaiah for the first time in 22 days! It was obvious he was glad to see both of us. Lydia and Hannah are still recovering but doing well.

1130 18 April 2024 Update

Rachael had trouble sleeping due to head pain, but her first day of intensive physical, occupational, and speech therapy went very well! She stood up briefly and also got to try out her new wheelchair. The infectious disease team says because of the results of her central nervous system (CNS infection) the plan is to keep her here at OSU Dodd for 4 weeks with a tentative release date of 2 May 2024. Hannah was released from Children’s. She does have covid officially as does her grandpa, Jeff, but the symptoms are more akin to colic. They are both doing well. She will be staying with him in the meantime. Thank you for praying!

1630 17 April 2024 Update

Rachael was discharged from Miami Valley at 12:37 today and we are now comfortably settled into our room at OSU Dodd Hall in Columbus. If you visit, text or PM me in advance so I can give you parking and room directions. She ate better today and is resting and settling in well. Visiting hours are 6am-8pm but **please** let me know in advance when you plan to visit. The hospital does not require it, and children are welcome, however due to Rachael’s sensory condition and vigorous rehab program, I am asking all visitors to arrange a time to visit with me in advance with so that she is not overloaded. There is a Panera and Wendy’s within walking distance, and a playground adjacent for anyone bringing children. I’m being told most patients stay here 3 weeks or less.
Last night Hannah (our youngest) had major breathing problems. Sarah took her to ER and rode in an ambulance with her to Nationwide Children’s. She has Covid. Her grandpa Jeff visited her and as a precautionary has to stay with her in a locked room for 5 days.
Isaiah and Lydia are both doing well, although even Lydia had a scare with tornado warnings in her area.
Both the Carpenter and Ballentine families, who have helped watch our kids and helped in other areas are dealing with various forms of illness and fatigue.
I still have laryngitis, although not quite as bad. Lots to pray for, and lots to praise God for. As always, thank you all for everything!

0830 17 April 2024 Update

Attention prayer warriors; start your engines! It’s about to get real!!

Rachael is getting discharged from hospital today. She is having lots of pain and this morning she was very sick (likely a response to medication). Pray for her transition to rehab at OSU Dodd Hall
Hannah, our youngest, was taken to the ER in Bellefontaine early this morning with breathing troubles. It sounds like she has Covid.
I have laryngitis, which is making it difficult to talk to all the doctors, different hospitals.
Paul Carpenter, who helped watch the kids over the weekend, is also having breathing troubles (likely related to past pneumonia). ER trip for him is pending.
My parents are watching Isaiah in Columbus, Sarah is watching Lydia in Belle Center (one of her kids recently had surgery and there is possible sickness there as well) and Rachael’s dad Jeff took off work to care for Hannah in Columbus (if she is transferred). Pray they do not get sick!

Needless to say, the battle is real but nothing will shake us!!

1520 16 April 2024 Update

After all the prayers, it has been confirmed that Rachael will be discharged from the hospital tomorrow! She will be transferred to OSU Dodd Hall in Columbus, OH for rehab. So if there are any visitors near the Dayton, OH area that would like to see Rachael here one last time, today is your last chance! She has been a little weaker today, not eating as much. I think she just needs more rest. As expected, she has had a lot of pain in her head, but also some dizziness, and some vision trouble in one of her eyes. Pray that a little rest would take care of that.

1930 15 April 2024 Update

Another good day for Rachael. She was a little weaker in the morning, but by the afternoon and evening she not only sat up on her own several times, but she ask me if I could read the Bible to her! She was also able to read some things on her phone. She surprised speech therapy in how well she did with her memory. And, of course, chocolate lover she is, she ate her entire brownie . I did find it interesting that one of the first things she wanted to do on her phone, was to check up on her friend and see how her new baby was doing. Discharge is still a possibility in the near future! Keep praying!

1800 14 April 2024 Update

Rachael had a great day. Rested well, followed more commands, and communicated a lot better. I could tell people were praying! I also got to see the kids again on a dinner invitation from the Carpenters. So thankful for the Ballentines, Lewis’s, family, and others helping to care for the children, and drive them from point A to point B. I am hearing rumblings about an imminent discharge which would be amazing had you seen the condition Rachael was in prior to today. Please pray for this transition to go well whenever it happens! So thankful, as always, for all the support of every kind during this challenging time. We could not get through it without God working in and through you!

0600 13 April 2024 Update

She slept a lot more today and ate better. She talked quite a bit while she was awake and I couldn’t help but think about what she repeated more than anything Can we go home to see the children in Belle Center? Had I been in her shoes, the first thing out of my mouth would have likely been about my pain and discomfort. The last thing she did before her accident was save Lydia’s life. One of the first things she did after her own life was saved was ask about the children. That tells you all you need to know about Rachael. Now all that’s needed is time. And patience for God to work His healing power in His time. Thank you for your prayers and support!

0600 12 April 2024 Update

After a good visit with the children, I got back to see Rachael and was told I had 20 minutes to pack our stuff as we were going to be evicted from the ICU! We got settled in the trauma unit last night. Praise the Lord! For visitors, there are no changes except for the elevator to take and the room. PM me If you are planning to visit and I will give you updated room info. As of now she has no feeding tubes, and she is eating on a specific diet. Although prior to her being on a fixed diet, I was able to sneak in a piece of beef jerky and one of my mom’s homemade chocolate chip cookies which she ate (don’t judge!) For prayer, pray Rachael would regain more memory and respond more to commands. She is talking a lot, but lots of repetitive, incoherent sentences. Although a praise is one of the words she continues to repeat is Jesus! Overnight I heard her saying the Lord needs to save all these people. Also prayer for my family as a whole in general, for the children, and the families who are watching the children now and in the near future.

0600 11 April 2024 Update

Yesterday was definitely one of the hardest days for Rachael and I, but by God’s grace we got through it. Rachael has been taking lots of baby steps; conversing more, eating food, and sitting in a chair with her helmet. Also, she got the feeding tube out of her nose today, hopefully for good! And Lord willing could be moved to trauma unit as soon as one opens up. Thanks to the Lewis family, I was able to see all my kids for an extended visit at Chick-fil-A in Dayton. Man, it was so good to see them again. Progress, but a long road ahead. Many needs remain and many unknowns exist. But I believe in a faithful God who sovereignty carries out His will and will get me through.

0600 10 April 2024 Update

She is doing so much better! Yesterday PT helped her stand up on her own and she put a sock on her foot by herself! She has been conversing a lot more and today besides talking about wanting the children and parents she said The Lord needs us to be here. Yesterday I also was blessed to meet Jesse, the man who life flighted her to the hospital, and was treated by a visit of 14 Mennonites from my old church Bethesda Fellowship. Today speech therapy had her try a swallow test which she passed with flying colors. Now she is attempting to eat solid foods for first time since accident! Pray for Isaiah who has a stomach bug, and that it won’t spread; Lord willing I will get to visit the kids tomorrow! Pray for a good visit. And thank you all for your gifts, support, and prayers!

0600 9 April 2024 Update

She had a great day yesterday. Speech therapy had her taste ice cubes so see if she could swallow, which she did successfully. Physical therapy had her sit up in bed, which she did almost by herself. They let me give her a hug too. She has been conversing more, and overall has been in a good mood all things considering. Today, Lord willing she will get to put on her new helmet to protect her head. Thank you for praying!

0600 8 April 2024 Update

She had a great day yesterday in terms of rest and talking more coherently. Her MRI didn’t work out due to movement, so will have to have another soon. But she says things like Can you help me and Honey come here. She also called me darling, and this morning said sit with me. She also asked how are the children. I showed her some photos and videos. She still can’t say any of our names, but she seems to know who we are.

0600 7 April 2024 Update

She woke up a few times last night saying things like honey come here and when she saw me, I saw her give me an air kiss. Her eyes have not been centered when she opens them but fever appears to be gone. She is currently having another MRI on her brain and neck. She has been, ironically enough resting well on the Lord’s Day. Another nursing student from Cedarville has been helping. It seems like when we have a shift of a nurse who is positive and upbeat, Rachael seems to improve. So pray that continues. And as always I appreciate all your prayers and support. Joshua+

0600 6 April 2024

Her fever has been up and down but at the moment is gone. The swelling around her eye appears to be gone as well. Beyond that, after speaking to the doctor it sounds like there are a lot of unknowns, and a LOT of different doctors and tests/scans today. Pray for more answers, and energy and rest for Rachael. The kids last I heard are doing well also. Pray for one of the children of the families watching our kids for recovery from surgery. This has been an additional burden on a lot of people now and will likely be as time goes on. If you are still interested in helping our family and wondering how, PM or text me the way in which you are willing and I can let you know what is needed. Many needs have been met, but there may be areas I have not considered either for our family or for the families who are helping us indefinitely. Thank you for your help and prayers.

0600 5 April 2024

She slept well last night. This morning the doctor had to stitch up a hole on her scalp from surgery. As a precautionary, she is having an MRI to ensure there is no infection. She is still talking with deep breaths, but primarily repeating words like okay and please can you help me. Having pain in stomach area. Also has had a fever of 102. The swelling in her eye has gone down some. The MRI should be around 1030 this morning and take an hour so I will update more later or tomorrow. Thank you for praying!

0600 2 April 2024 Update

Rachael had a great day yesterday and a great night. She is nodding, pointing, and looking multiple directions more, and resting well. Still on ventilator. They tried her breathing on her own yesterday which she did briefly but they decided she needed a little more time. The prayer request would be for her to get strong enough that she can follow commands quicker without thinking. The kids have been in excellent hands, and are eating and sleeping well, and having fun. It is truly mind-blowing how the body of Christ has come together to not only care for our families physical needs, but Spiritual also. I have had almost 40 visitors, some driving 6-10 hours round trip. Some dropping their plans, and leaving large families to stay for hours just to make sure I am okay. And even with what appears to be more stormy Ohio weather headed our way, I can truly say in more ways than one I’ll praise You in this storm. There is Light at the end of the tunnel. Joshua+

0600 31 March 2024 Update

I was told that depending on how she responds/doesn’t respond to commands, that she could very likely have some type of aphasia. Please pray God would deliver her from that possibility; especially after the encouraging news this morning about her brain. And thank you all again for…everything Rachael is still fighting. The urgent specific prayer for her would be responding to commands from doctors and nurses and cooperating. That way she can get off oxygen and try to talk. The doctor still thinks there is a good chance she will recover acceptably. That is all for now.

0118 30 March 2024 Update

Update on Rachael. And it is a praise item! The nurse woke me at 2am to update me that Rachael has more bodily movement and can respond with her head in a nod, can turn her head side to side, and she has been moving her left arm! Up until today she had only been able to move her right arm and right leg. Praise God!

Here are specific requests for Rachael as of now:

Pray that Rachael could respond to commands (wiggle your toes, give me thumbs up etc)
Pray that if she responds to the above, that she could come off oxygen. Her lungs are okay!
She is able to see and hear. To what extent I am unsure so pray that she can hear, see, talk, etc as much as before
Pray she can move her left leg. Her left foot does have a small hairline fracture.
Pray when the nurses do her regular tests that Rachael would cooperate. She always was a little stubborn

Requests for our kids:

Pray for family and friends watching and caring for them over the days, weeks, and months ahead. Isaiah is 5, Lydia is 3, and Hannah is 1. Because of their ages, they of course have specific needs. Pray specifically not only for their physical needs being met, but especially for their spiritual needs.
Praise God for good health, especially for Lydia as she had been in two car accidents over the last few months and has shown no signs of injury either time. Because she has autistic tendencies, there is no way for her to talk and communicate what she needs, how she feels, and now her mother is in the same condition.

Requests for me:

Pray I would get my wife and closest friend back the way she was. And if not, that God would prepare me emotionally, Spiritually, and physically for what changes to expect.
Pray I could see my kids soon. I miss them dearly, but I cannot leave Rachael.
Pray that I would have the joy of Jesus during moments of condemnation.
Pray that God would give me confidence in Him during Spiritual attacks; particularly as it relates to how I treated Rachael prior to accident. That God would give me discernment with triggers that cause attacks, because I need to be strong for Rachael!
Pray for my personal walk with God; prayer life, time in the Word etc.
Pray for wisdom related to finances, bills etc.
Pray for patience and peace with God’s will and timing.
Praise God for all the visitors and pray God would send more! Visiting hours are 8am-8pm at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, OH. PM or text me for room info.

Most importantly,

Pray that God would reveal how He wishes to be glorified by this ordeal,
He would be preparing me for opportunities to share the Gospel and empathize with nurses, other patients, visitors etc now and perhaps friends or family in the future.

Of course, praise God for all the prayer warriors all over the WORLD and for all the answered prayers and (from my viewpoint) unanswered prayers. For so many churches and church leaders praying, for so many hugs, calls, cards, words of wisdom, encouragement etc. I love you all!!!

0430 29 March 2024 Update – Good Friday

Thank you so much to everyone who has prayed, offered to help, and visited me at the hospital. Some people drove many, many hours just to be here and pray. I have no words for my gratitude. I just want to say I am humbled and overwhelmed with joy for the support shown during this difficult chapter in our family thus far. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to all of you. As far as updates, the situation is fluid, but Lydia was released from the hospital. She is fine. Our other children are being watched by my parents, bless their hearts, and are also doing well.

For those of you who were unaware of exactly what happened, you have my permission to share this: Rachael walked across the street to get the mail at our house, and Lydia was with her. Apparently she ran a little too far ahead of Rachael and somehow a truck struck Rachael causing her to fall and hit her head. By God’s grace, Lydia’s life was saved I suspect Rachael protected her from the truck. Rachael, however was not so lucky. She has a major laceration to the back of her head and had to be life-flighted to ICU. She is in stable condition (as of this post). She had to have part of her skull removed and plastic surgery was performed successfully. The team at the hospital has done an outstanding job of caring for her.

Needless to say, life is about to change significantly for us. I have no idea if the woman who said I do over 7 years ago will ever be the same again. I do not know how our three children will be able to handle mommy not being around indefinitely. There are many more questions. One thing is for sure, God is in control and all things work together for good to those who love God.

If anyone wants any additional info or has any questions, please send me a PM or text me if you have my number.

Love in Christ,

+Joshua

Candelaria (Candy) has problems with her legs. Her daughter Silvia and her granddaughter Luhana would appreciate you joining them in prayer for the problems to be resolved.

Howard ‘Blue’ Bodenhamer underwent tumor removal surgery on his nose which involved major facial cutting to make things right. It seems the surgery went well and he is recovering, he has a couple more surgeries to get things correct. Please give thanks for the apparent good result and pray things continue will. Give Blue and his lovely wife SueEllen peace of mind and patience during the recovery.

John, has multiple medical issues, diabetes, stomach problems, needs his gall bladder removed and now after two deep biopsies have found he has prostate cancer. They will be treating him with a new procedure not requiring radiation or chemotherapy. Pray that the doctor will be able to schedule this soon, to enable the Gall bladder removal.

Sonnie, 87, John’s mother with whom he lives, has been on oxygen for some time due to severe COPD and is experiencing breathing difficulties despite the oxygen 24/7.

Jim is experiencing two bacterial sinus infections so severe that it landed him in the ER and with an ENT doctor, who has prescribed a serious antibiotic regimen with severe side effects. He must take these antibiotics for two months. It is affecting his stomach, energy levels, concentration and vision. Please pray the Lord may use this time of healing medicine for Jim’s healing and the Lord’s glory. Pray Jim may stay the course with a complete recovery.

Christine Savarese had a seizure just after Christmas 2023. Testing found a brain tumor which upon removal was found to be malignant. She and her husband Gennaro are truly terrified of the near future. Please pray for peace of mind and soul for them and their two daughters, and for the medical team treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. Pray also for what we desire as a good result.

Rev. Dr. Robert Weldy is a retired priest, long time friend of AOC Minister Jim Cavanaugh, has several health issues. On 19 December 2023, he was admitted to the hospital for a very serious infection in his lower left leg and foot. He is diabetic and is greatly concerned about this infection. He is afraid if the antibiotic treatments do not overcome the infection, he may be facing the loss of part of his leg. Please pray our Heavenly Father will give knowledge, wisdom, and skill to the doctors and medical staff that attend him. May they be instruments of healing. May the LORD our God restore Robert to health and recovery from all sickness.

Debi Romano Gunther had a mammary biopsy on 27 November 2023. The results were mixed, there was a mass, it has to come out, but it was not cancerous. She is understandably concerned. Please pray for peace of mind for her as she waits the procedure and results, for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating her to pay attention and do their very best and for a good result.

Suzie Nogales has been treating for breast cancer, she recently underwent surgery, she is a strong and active Christian, she really has no fear, but does have concern for her children and husband. Please keep Suzie, her family and treating medical team in your prayer.

Myanmar (Burma) We solicit your prayers for the Church and people of Myanmar (Burma). The Rev. Titus has sent this note: Please we pray for relief from the extreme heats and in particular for the children Issac and Mercy that are having difficulties related to the heat.

Tricia Marie underwent abdominal surgery on 28 June 2023; she gives thanks it was apparently successful and asks you to pray with here for a full and rapid recovery, for peace of mind for her and her family. She gives thanks for an apparently successful coil surgery to seal off an aneurysm at the base of her skull on 12 January 2023. She has seemingly recovered from the stroke of December 2021. She still headaches which had been bothering her for months since she got the Moderna vaccine. She has had almost no real sleep or rest for months. She has gotten some relief from the headache from a Botox injection series, may that continue. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and pray for relief from the headache, nausea and pain and rest for her, for guidance for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating her and a full and rapid recovery, for peace of mind for her and her family.

Bryan Dabney, AOC Minister, had quadruple bypass surgery on 6 July 2023. He is home and seems to be doing well. He is continuing to strengthen, he completed Phase 2 cardiac rehab last and begins Phase 3 now. Phase 3 will be more a maintenance program he will do for the next few months. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and pray for a full and complete recovery. Continue to comfort Brian, his wife Lisa, and son Thomas as they deal with his recovery.

Natalie Oslin Lohrenz is undergoing chemotherapy for cancer, she is about 2/3 of the way through the regimen. She is tolerating the poison pretty well, but asks your prayers for it to work and the toleration to continue.

Josh Morley, son of Bishop Charles Morley, has had another grand mal seizure and is back in the hospital. Joshua and Bishop Morley are distraught, as they cannot determine the cause for his seizure. They are hoping to change doctors and find a cause and cure for Joshua. Bishop Morley says Joshua is healthy in every way but for having these seizures.

David McMillan recently suffered a stroke. Please pray for guidance for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him and for peace of mind for David and his family.

Alicia, her husband, Andrew, and their two young daughters. Alicia has Susac’s Disease and narcolepsy. She has not been able to work and is having a difficult time even functioning. Please pray for her, her family, and those that attend her. May heavenly wisdom fill the doctors that they may treat Alicia and serve as God’s instruments to restore her to health.

Harry Brooks, Major USMC – GA ANG Retired – just finished a round of chemotherapy, which he barely survived and had his cancerous bladder removed in March 2023. Please pray for guidance for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him and for peace of mind for Harry and his family and for a good result.

Bob Apple just found out he has cancer and is beginning treatment. Please pray for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance; pray also for peace of mind for Bob.

Deanna Sampson started to treat for cataracts and found she had an irregular heartbeat, then breast cancer with precluded the operation. She had apparently successful surgery for the cancer and has undergone radiation treatment, she is waiting to see what comes next. A strong Christian with an incredible attitude, she could nonetheless use your prayers.

Henry Johnson (age 3) suffers from a rare form of epilepsy. Please join his parents in praying a treatment regimen can be found to treat his condition.

Tricia Marie gives thanks for an apparently successful coil surgery to seal off an aneurysm at the base of her skull on 12 January 2023. She has seemingly recovered from the stroke of December 2021. She still headaches which had been bothering her for months since she got the Moderna vaccine. She has had almost no real sleep or rest for months. has gotten some relief from the headache from a Botox injection series, may that continue. Please pray for relief from the headache, nausea and pain and rest for her, for guidance for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating her and a full and rapid recovery, for peace of mind for her and her family.

Shamu is totally exhausted, but in relatively good spirits. Shamu has a terrible headache, is in a lot of pain; feels like she has been stabbed, totally exhausted and weak, but her faith is incredibly strong. They have found a mass in her upper abdomen which must be investigated. She asks you pray for guidance for the medical people helping her. Her 39^th surgery is coming up on 18 April 2024. After 38 surgeries, she is quite very weak, but strong in her trust in our Lord as she goes through this difficult time. She needs your prayer. Please.

Tommy Cook is beset by Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Congestive Heart failure. It seems there is little that can be done except fight a delaying action against the aggressive pair. At present it seems like the only avenue open is a heart lung transplant and little chance of that. He asks you pray for guidance for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him and the miracle of a full and rapid recovery, for peace of mind for him and his family. He is a very strong Christian and has no concern for himself, but for his wife, children and mother.

Brady on the way to enter the armed forces in Virginia Beach, got in a horrible tragic car accident that required surgery to restructure his foot, and back surgery to relieve pressure on his spine and repair the breaks. Please pray for his parents, and that he, unsure of what his future will hold, will understand the Lord Jesus Christ holds his future and He will not fail nor forsake him.

David Connis has Stage Four colon cancer, he can no longer do chemotherapy and has switched to immunotherapy in the hope of surviving to participate in an experimental program in December. Please pray for strength and guidance for him and his nine year old daughter, as well as what we consider a good outcome.

John Crawford, of Tennessee, is in ICU for treatment of pancreatitis. Please pray for guidance for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him and for peace of mind for John and his family and for a good result.

George Johnson, MD, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma[1]. From Dr. George Hardin Johnson, I need all my friends and prayer warriors to pray for me, that the new chemo pill (meds) that the doctor ordered will be use mightily by the Lord Jesus to heal my body. Pray that there will be no side effects and my body can handle the meds. Thanks and God bless you all for your prayers in the mighty name of our Savior the Lord Jesus Christ. We know God is in full control and we are trusting in Him to give George a complete healing!

Margie Johnson (wife of Dr. George Johnson) is very ill and need of healing. Please pray for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and be open to God’s guidance. Pray also for comfort and strength for her and her husband George.

Greg was in an explosive work accident leading to burns over 65% of his body. He is in the hospital and will be for months. Also pray for his mother, who recently lost her husband and now is overseeing her son’s care; she is disabled and in a wheel chair.

Lauralee Meade has tested positive for Covid 19; she is only moderately concerned as she has no symptoms. She asks you pray she stay that way and test negative so she can visit her mother. Please pray also for a complete remission of her cancer. Pray also Lauralee will maintain her great attitude and trust in God.

Inga, the wife of Tore, requests prayer for her husband in Norway. He is awaiting surgery for a heart valve and kidney transplants. He is nearing surgery. Please pray for trust in the Lord for her, her husband and family and friends who are so very worried about him. Pray also for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating him that they might be open to God’s guidance for treatment, pay attention and do their very best to help him. Pray for a good outcome.

Corrie Marsh, daughter of Ida Benson, is facing serious medical procedures in coming days. Please pray for trust in God for Corrie and her family and for the doctors, nurses and technicians to pay attention and do their very best, as well as to be open to God’s guidance.

Cyrus has blood cancer and is very very ill. Please pray the doctors treating him will pay attention and do their very best. Pray also for comfort and peace for Cyrus and his family; pray that if it not be that he will recover that he past restfully to home.

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.

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.

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

Lee, late 60’s, has attended church all of his life, but has fallen afar from Jesus. He is in a nursing home with late stages ALS. Bishop Dennis is meeting with him weekly to help him back. Lee has run out of the ability to bear pain and would like to leave. Please pray Dennis will be able to help him home, not somewhere else.

Sandy has been diagnosed with malignant lung cancer. She has COPD and therefore not a candidate for surgery. Her only medical option is for Chemo and Radiation according to her Drs.: Sandy is a Christian who believes in the healing power of prayer. Sandy has been a friend of Mary Lou Flanagan since high school as well as going to college together.

John Thomas, of Malaysia, a long time friend of Bishop Jerry, a persevering servant of the Lord for many years. His health has begun to fade in his present age of 79. Please pray the Lord will extend a merciful hand to John, and his devoted wife Gina, in working out His perfect will for both.

Joey Angelica is a recovering addict with liver cancer and diabetes, he lost his job during the plandemic, then found out he has liver cancer. He is a very strong Christian, he and his friend Vicki ask that you pray for his recovery and continued trust in God.

Janine Alvarado’s daughter has what appears to be terminal cancer, she is in much pain, in and out of the hospital. She asks that you pray for a miraculous recovery for her daughter and if that not be God’s will, a safe passing home. She asks you pray also for peace of mind and strength for both of them.

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.

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.

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 li 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 re 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.

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

Steve, 38, has not been able to work for the last year due to problems related to multiple orthopedic surgeries resulting in severe nerve problems and Thoracic outlet syndrome. On top of this he switched health insurance and the wrong health insurance was billed resulting in $100,000.00 of billing mistakes that he is attempting to help fix with the medical companies. His caretakers are wearing thin, due to his consistent problem with pain and inability to cope with it or find a way to make it go away. So please pray for relief for Steve for pain and a solution to end the pain; Also pray strength and perseverance and peace for his caretakers (his mother and girlfriend).

Al, age 66, just moved into an assisted adult community. He is having circulation and breathing issues. He is a good Christian and loves the Lord with all his heart. Pray for God’s Comfort and Guidance for him and all those who assist with his care.

Jim and Pam Lanno – After Jim was recovering from a heart attack, he noticed something was off. Soon came the diagnosis of ALS along with dementia. He is in his early 60s. Pam is learning the role of care taker and overwhelmed and fearful at times. Both are good Christians and love the Lord with all their hearts. Pray for God’s Comfort and Guidance for both and all caretakers who assist.

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.

Joan has had serious medical problems that have kept her confined. Please pray her health will remain stable.

Surgery

Mrs. Janice Smith is reporting Friday 26 April 2024, for knee replacement on Monday 29 April 2024. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also the Smith family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.

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.

Testing and Treatment

Melissa Morgan, a young woman in her thirties just found out she has ovarian cancer. Pray with Melissa, 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 Melissa, her family and friends in this worrisome time.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 be 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.

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.

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

Sandra Zimmerman was diagnosed with triple positive Stage 2 breast cancer. She had a mammogram done last year at 40 years old and it was clear. This July they found two suspicious lumps, there was follow up with another mammogram, ultrasound, biopsy, bloodwork, MRI, more bloodwork, and PET scan. Sandra’s most pressing concern is how she will take care of her baby Sophie as she goes through chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation along with a cocktail of pills. It’s going to be a year long journey, she asks your prayer to stay strong and fight this battle!

Ronnie Bretz is recovering from brain surgery.

Madisun Hanks (21) 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.

Hilda Hanks has developed diabetes, which resulted in the need for eye surgery and has difficulty with the added stress in her life. Pray for the doctors, nurses and technicians treating her 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 Hilda and Madisun.

Linda recently had a basal cell carcinoma removed and she is doing well, 15 years with Multiple Myeloma is doing great. She is continuing bimonthly chemo and this keeps her going strong, she is grateful for all prayers.

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 be 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.

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 Marathon 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.

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.

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.

Healing and Patience

Angie Colgrove has various problems and challenges, physical, mental, and spiritual. She asks you pray for guidance for her and those treating her, as well as for her family.

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

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

Thanksgiving and Continued Healing

Dave Carroll, husband of Cinder, the AOC Office Manager, had what seems to be a very successful second knee replacement the morning of Tuesday, 21 November 2023. Please give thanks for the good result and pray for a full and rapid recovery.

Don Fultz fell in response to a house on fire across the street and broke his hip. He is had surgery and spent time in the Cardiac Care Unit in response to a heart arrythmia apparently due to the anesthesia. That was resolved and Don returned home to complete his recovery and is doing well. He and his family thank you for your prayers. Please continue praying for a complete recovery.

Barbara (Paulette Ratcliff’s) sister, has battled stomach cancer through removal of tumor and chemotherapy but the tumor returned at 7 centimeters. She had apparently successful surgery on Friday 24 June 2022. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and for a full and rapid recovery and for full remission of the cancer. Pray also for peace of mind for Barbara, her children, her sisters and brothers.

Deborah Drucilla, sister of Bishop Jerry, was hospitalized with a number of issues including blood clot in her liver. She is now home. Please give thanks for a good result so far and a full and rapid recovery, for peace of mind for her and her 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).

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.

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.

Financial Guidance and Employment

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.

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.

Guidance

Luke is having difficulties at age 19 finding his way forward in alignment with the Christian values of his family and of civilization in general. He cannot see the utility of a life in conformance with those values and is looking to find a non-existent short cut to an ‘easy life’ that does not exist. Please pray he will find his way back to God and see his family wants to help him.

Jess is having difficulties in her personal life and is looking for permanent solutions; she is having problems seeing precisely what she direction she should take and how. Please pray she will open her heart to God’s guidance in the form of the Holy Ghost.

Zachary is seems to be on his way away from the darkside; please pray he will continue towards our Lord and good citizenship.

Linda is slowly converting her children through her great loving attitude and Love of the Lord.

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 heart 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.

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. He has returned to his family living in a cottage on his parents’ property in Hawaii so that they can keep him on his meds. He is doing much better, but he still needs prayer to follow his medication schedule. His parents are so thankful for all of the prayers as they have felt the Holy Spirit’s power in handling Eli during his dark periods.

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.

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.

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.

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 life. Pray 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 to keep up with the needs of her 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

Solomon Islands

Please pray for Bishop Zephaniah, the AOC and all the peoples of the Solomon Islands who are experiencing civil unrest as a result of the government switching their alliance from Taiwan to Communist China.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/solomon-islands-leader-blames-foreign-powers-unrest-australian-forces-arrive-n1284619

Diocese of Central and South America

Rev Miguel Madera was received into the Anglican Orthodox Church on 13 August 2018, with the AOC mission of San Augustin de Canterbury, La Plata, Argentina.

Indonesia

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

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.

Philippines

We are generally doing good, except that all boundary checkpoint out were tightened again due to the DELTA VARIANT entered the city. On the other side, our members in Tulodan are now experiencing famine due to the effect of the recent continues heavy rains during the month of July to early August which completely destroyed their vegetable plantation.

Bishop Anthony Pangsiw

Diocese of the Epiphany

Saint Paul’s Moberly, Missouri would like your prayers the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so 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.

Columbiq

I am writing to request your prayers for Colombia, my country. At this moment frightful things are happening, a great diabolical shadow is cast over this nation.

The Constitutional Court in a tyrannical way has decriminalized the crime of abortion in Colombia, even up to six months. This is an illegitimate process, the court is legislating, something that is not within the competence of the judges, on the other hand the issue of abortion was a cause judged in 2006, which is why it should not be judged again in 2022. But socialist groups, international elites, social engineers and feminist groups have not given up on the issue. They want to traffic in death.

The candidate of the extreme left Gustavo Petro is close to become the president of Colombia, this is a man who in his youth was a guerrilla criminal, a vile and despicable man who has always served the interests of drug trafficking, he was an advisor to Chavez who implanted Communism in Venezuela, his second home is Communist Cuba.

The same court approved the movement of Gustavo Petro called: la Colombia Humana, it gave him the status of a political party, with this, he has the possibility of getting to introduce at least 15 congressmen, basically he is close to kidnapping all the powers, he already has the judicial power in his pocket, he only lacks the executive and the legislative. We are close to the precipice, we trust in a miracle of God.

We hope you support us with your prayers, I will ask the brothers to pray unceasingly so that in his mercy we will be saved from these perverse men. God bless you and keep you in all things.

Your servant in Christ, Bishop José Antonio Rios

Armed Forces & Contractors

Dustin (USAF – Stateside), SGT Donny Patton (USAF – Hulbert Field, Florida), Jordan Brown (USMC – Recruiter – Iowa City, Iowa), Trevor Di Marco (USN – Whidbey Island, EF-18 Pilot), Kurt Thomas (USN – Headquarters, Virginia), Ethan (US Army Airborne – Southwest Asia), Lourie DeBoer (NTPS Patuxent River, Maryland) Nyah Thomas (USAF-Keesler AFB, Louisiana)

For Our Country

Our country has lost its way. Over half the people that vote, voted for a government that promises them things it cannot deliver in return for their souls which it can, will and does take. Our foreign policy backs the rise of Islam, we turn our backs on those who would follow God and arm those who murder them. Pray God will raise up a leader from among the people who can turn the country’s course 180° and attempt to come back to God. Pray the people will recognize that they are headed down a smooth wide road into the pit, a road that will get smoother and smoother, steeper and steeper until the only possible way is down. Down, into the depths of the pit. Pray people will recognize there is:

One True and Triune God who is goodness in and of Himself;
All religions are not equal;
All ways of life are not equal;
The Bible holds the Key to Life;
All rights come from God, not the State;
Good;
Bad;
Evil;
Right;
Wrong;
Allah is the Devil;
Abortion is no more than sacrifice of children to Baal.

Pray this recognition will not come too late. Pray we will, each of us, do our duty to God, Country and Family, putting His Honor above all.

Persecuted

Around the world, Christians are under attack, not only in the Muslim world, but from Hindus and others in India. Also, they are under continual attack in the name of Separation of Church and State in the western world, as it becomes actively atheist or pro-devil buddy. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.

Thanksgiving

Myeongsu Kim, father of Minki, one of Bishop Jerry’s congregation members, has been treating for Colorectal cancer. His course of treatment is complete and there are no signs of cancer remaining! Please give thanks for his good attitude and for the doctors, nurses and technicians who treated him paying attention and doing their best, as well as what we think to be a good outcome.

Cindy Pank is doing much better after being hospitalized, she really does not like to be in hospitals but it seemed to have worked. Please give thanks for her patience and a good attitude and for the doctors, nurses and technicians who treated her paying attention and doing their best, as well as what we think to be a good outcome.

Jerry had a persistent AFib event and is was hospitalized to get it under control. That worked and his back at home feeling find. Please give thanks for the quick and full recovery.

Hope DeLong woke up early the morning of 26 April 2024, with abdominal pain that turned out to be appendicitis. She went to the hospital and had the offending appendix removed before it burst and was discharged the next day. She asks you to join her and giving thanks for the appendix not bursting and the quick removal with no apparent complications.ß∑

Buzz Barron had a TIA, a stroke like event with no brain damage, on 24 April 2024. He said the no damage was because, “You need a brain for that. I’m back to my grumpy, shuffling, normal geezer self. Thanks all for your prayers.” After 16 hours in the hospital they sent him home because they had no rooms. Please give thanks for his good result.

Sunghyun Mun has recovered from the broken bones in his hand and give thanks for all who prayed for him.

Gary Anderson of Enterprise has recovered from his illness and give thanks for all who prayed for him.

Zetta’s second surgery biopsy was benign and the other worrisome suspected lesion responded to freezing and fell off a few days ago (she call it a miracle) She will begin 6-month follow-up visits to keep watch. Thanks for all the prayers.

Coming Up – The near future, as well as Next Sunday

9 May 2024 – Ascension Day – Evening Prayer – Service start time 1800 (6:00 pm); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1800 (6:00 pm); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

12 May 2024 – Sunday after Ascension 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

19 May 2024 – Whitsunday (Pentecost) – 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

26 May 2024 – Trinity Sunday – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

2 June 2024 – First Sunday after Trinity Sunday– Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA

[1] Multiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Healthy plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells. While there is no cure for multiple myeloma, the cancer can be managed successfully in many patients for years; the average life expectancy is 4 years. However, some people beat the odds and live 10 to 20 years or more. The most common cause of death related to multiple myeloma is infection, with pneumonia being the most common fatal infection. Other common causes of death are bleeding (from low platelet counts), complications of bone fractures, kidney failure, and blood clots in the lungs.

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