240204 AOC Sunday Report

Anglican Orthodox Church Worldwide Communion

Sexagesima Sunday Report

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

On Point

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

Screwtape[1] on Moderation

Make him doubt whether the first days of his Christianity were not, perhaps, a little excessive. Talk to him about ‘moderation in all things’. If you can once get him to the point of thinking that ‘religion is all very well up to a point’, you can feel quite happy about his soul. A moderated religion is as good for us as no religion at all—and more amusing.

Jack Lewis

The Screwtape Letters

Tactics or Strategy?

The secret of all victory lies in the organization of the non-obvious.

Marcus Aurelius

Life

If a man is called to be a street sweeper, he should sweep streets even as a Michaelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, ‘Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.

Martin Luther King, Junior

Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

Mark 13:31

He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.

John 8:47

Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee.

Jeremiah 32:17

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.

John 15:18

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 Anglican Church, being founded on the principal of one nation, one church, holds patriotism and true love of country in great regard. It is quite interesting the majority of the Founding Fathers were members of the Church of England and transferred their national church identity to what became the Protestant Episcopal Church of the United States. Like Henry VIII and Thomas Cranmer, they saw the need for a national church. Not a captive arm of the government, but a link to God for the people of the nation.

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 the minister or in the case of Morning or Evening Prayer without a minister by the senior member present.

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

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

The Sunday called Sexagesima, or the

second Sunday before Lent.

The Collect.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hard ground
Stony ground
Thorny ground
Good ground

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

Jesus explains the seed is The Word.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sermon Notes

Sexagesima

Do you stand up for God and His Word?

The Anglican Orthodox Communion Worldwide

4 February 2024, Anno Domini (In the Year of our Lord)

The Sunday called Sexagesima, or the

second Sunday before Lent.

The Collect.

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

The Collect

Our Collect which we have prayer today reminds us to we take no credit for any good deed that we do but only for the evil deeds we may do. If we cannot trust our own heart to avoid sin, how can we trust that heart to do only righteousness? If we do not place our full trust in God, then we have nothing at all to trust. Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth’s sake (Psalm 115:1) When I see churches and shallow ministers taking credit for that they claim the Lord has done in building elaborate sanctuaries to the exclusion of the orphan’s table, I know this is the world church and not of Christ. We are all alike helpless in this world to defend against the forces of darkness. Darkness is the prime feature of the world in which we live. But we can always call upon the Lord for our main defense. He will stand with us, and He is Light. Where Light is, there can be no darkness.

This COLLECT comes from the Gregorian Sacramentary but was justly altered to omit, following the term ‘defended’ the phrase by the protection of the Doctor of the Gentiles. This is Roman error that attributes active and divine intercession of the Apostle Paul. As you will remember, there is only one intermediary between God and man: For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (1 Tim 2:5)

O LORD God -The devil and his wicked minions can also refer to Jehovah as God, but they cannot refer to Him as LORD GOD because they believe that they reject His rule and authority; however, they believe wrongly for it is the LORD’S business to execute a final judgment on those who are wicked. The wicked, in their sins, only build a strong case against them at the Final Bar. Those alone who are servants and family of the Lord of the Heavenly Manor may so call Him LORD GOD and be justified in the title.

The only true and infallible trust is centered upon the Lord. …who seest that we put not our trust in any thing we do. Do you trust in your own heart, or in the labors of your own hand, or in the trustworthiness of friends? If you do, you do so to your own peril, for our trust is rightly placed in the LORD alone. Not unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth’s sake. (Psalm 115:1) Can you say with certain knowledge that you would go all of the way to the burning stake rather than renounce the Word of God? You may FEEL that you would do so, but do you KNOW it? Do you have the courage of Hus, of Latimer and Ridley, of Cranmer, or of the martyred missionaries to China, John and Betty Stam? If you do not KNOW if you will do the right thing at a time of peril and decision, do not worry about it for, when the moment comes, the Holy Ghost will empower you to glorify God even to the point of death. But that decision of Righteous Will is not your own, but God’s who strengthens you. It is popular today to rely upon government for our every personal failing, but government, unrestrained, only leads to tyranny, chains, and enslavement. This is such an important truth that God placed it squarely in the center of His Word: It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes. (Psalm 118:8-9) It is so needful of remembrance that Peter reminds us: Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:29) If a lie, or untruth, is told by a minister or an infidel, it is still and untruth. So we trust those in authority over us only insofar as their words and actions can be confirmed by Holy Scripture.

God will see to it that we learn, if not by His Word, then through hard experience, to doubt our own selves and put our trust in Him. It is like a loving father watching his very young son trying to move a large stone from his sandbox in the playground. The child would strain and exert himself over and over again, but the rock was much too heavy for him to remove from the sandbox. After watching this little drama transpire over a period of perhaps twenty minutes, the father approaches the son and asks if he is having a problem. The son responds, Yes, father. I am trying to remove this large stone from my sandbox, but I do not have enough strength to move it out of the way! The father responds, Of course you do have the strength. No, said the son. I have been trying for the longest and I am now too tired to try more. The father answers, Son, you have not called upon the power available to you. I am your father, and my power is YOUR power. He then removed the rock from the sandbox. God is ALWAYS able, but we are never able apart from His grant of power. Mercifully grant that by thy power we may be defended against all adversity. All grants of favor from God are not gained by our merits, but by His MERCY. We are not good enough, and so receive the gold star by our names. Justice would condemn us to outer darkness, but God, in His Mercy, provided a means whereby we may be justified and considered spotless in His eyes. The power of God defends us daily from a thousand unseen dangers – dangers of which we may never be aware. He fouls the plans of the wicked gossip that would demean our character and destroy our reputation, and He does it most often without our ever knowing. He stays the diseased organism from entering our body at sundry times so that we feel our good health is owing to our righteous living. Our scheduled arrival at some place of a highway accident, or an act of crime is often delayed by unexplainable events that we chalk up to coincidence. With God, there are no coincidences.

Our defense is not against some singular danger, but from ALL adversities. This does not mean that we shall be spared trials, persecutions, accidents, etc; for that which seems at first and adversity may, in the end, become a great blessing. God will see us through. He may not remove the mountain blocking our way, but He will certainly make us able to climb over that mountain. The story is told of Bishop James Bashford of the Methodist Episcopal Church who, in 1904, was making an Episcopal tour of the mission churches in China. It so happened that decent quarters were not available to the Bishop on a certain night, and he was compelled to sleep under the trees. (Bishops were made of sterner stuff in those days). He was warned by the hotel keeper to beware of marauders in the night. Being watchful and sleepless for a while, the words of the Psalmist came to mind, Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand (Psalm 121:4-5), and so the Bishop said: There is no use in BOTH of us being awake, so he slept the sleep of the just!

Do you trust even your closest friend not to go to sleep at any time in watching for you? You can trust the Lord. You can trust the Friend that sticketh closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24) to see you through, for He already has fought your battle, paid your price, and redeemed you with His own blood. Do you trust Him completely, Friend?

The Epistle

2 Corinthians 11:19-31

The Gospel

Luke 8:4-15

ND when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: 5 A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. 6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 9 And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? 10 And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. 11 Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12 Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. 13 They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. 14 And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. 15 But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. (Luke 8:4-15)

The Sermon

In today’s Epistle, Paul reminds us of the many sufferings, hardships, and trials he has faced. He has been in the sea for a day and a night, beaten with whips and rods, cold and naked, hungry! Yet Paul, by the grace and protection of God, still stands. He has placed a trust in God that is worthy of our emulation. Paul readily admits that these sufferings came as a result of his own weakness, yet he gives God the glory for sustaining and keeping him through all. God is glorified in the good works which we do because all righteous works are of God.

Let us now turn to the very acts and Words of Christ in today’s Gospel text from Luke Chapter 8.

There is a harmony in the Gospels on this parable. It is covered in Matthew, Mark, and Luke; but I prefer, most thoroughly, the account in Matthew 13 for it relates in perfect unison with the other parables of the Kingdom in Matthew 13 (also known as the Kingdom Chapter of Matthew).

First

In Jesus’ parable, we see the Word of God (Seed) must be carried forth. It does no good to the lost soul for one to have a very accomplished knowledge of the Word if that Word is not carried forth and shared. Does the dust covered Bible on your mantle serve any Godly purpose? No, it does not. Its only value is a promised value such as potential energy. We need an active value of the Bible being dusted off, read carefully, memorized, carried forth, and shared. This is the kinetic energy that results in fulfillment of purpose.

Second

Who is this Sower that goes forth? We know the Sower is, in the original, Jesus Christ. He brought the saving Gospel and was Himself, that salvation. He taught the Apostles to be like-minded sowers of the Word. The Apostles have sowed the Word so abundantly that we all have at least tasted the fruits of that sowing. And no we are the sowers as well. If we only consume the Seed upon our own lust, how can there ever be a profitable increase. The Seed MUST be sowed in order that there will be a continual harvest. We must not take our Seed as the one talent and bury it away, we must invest the Seed by sowing and, in the process of time, we shall we receive abundance. The more we share the Holy Word with others, the greater the harvest of that Word in our hearts. What did the Sower do? A sower went out to sow his seed So must we go forth with the Seed.

Third

There is only one Seed. It is not a variety of Seed, but one constant and unchanging truth of God. There are no Seed that are unwholesome or which do not contain in their hearts the power to produce more fruit. The seed is the word (singular) of God. God’s Word does not change, and it is always wholesome whether received in a wholesome heart or not. The Sower’s bag does not have diverse seeds – even seeds of bramble – in His bag; but only the true and constant Seed of God’s Word.

Fourth

The four different kinds of soils represent four different kinds of hearts. We know these hearts well. We have all had one of each of these type hearts at times, but the cultivating Word of God has prepared our hearts for the Seed – to receive that Seed into the hidden chambers of our hearts. Perhaps that hidden chamber is the lowest chamber and most humble part of our hearts. The lowest chamber is where the moisture of life is most available that the Holy Ghost may nurture the Seed in thick darkness as the germinated plant struggles to reach the sunlight of the surface. Jesus, the Sower, does not differentiate between the types of soil upon which He sows – He sows on all soils. That which is stony ground today may become fertile soil tomorrow. The Sower does not distinguish between soils or hearts. It is the condition of the heart that receives the Seed that will determine whether that Seed shall bear fruit. But it is the Holy Ghost that gives life to that Seed when the heart has been conditioned by God. “….some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. 6 And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. 7 And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. 8 And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. God does not cast His pearls before swine. If there are deaf ears to His Word, then His Word will not germinate in their hearts. They are simply UNABLE to receive it because of the externals that they so highly value in the world. But remember, friends, the soils can change. The brambles and briar may be burned away exposing good earth.

The unlikely soils, or different types of hearts, are capable of being changed. The hardened wayside may be broken up, the rocky ground cleared of stones, and the thorns pulled up by the roots or burned by fire. These grounds may be prepared by God through His workers of the vineyard. We may, through our examples of obedience to God and contentment, become a hoe, or a plough, to break up the hardened soil so that the Seed may flourish there. Have you done this, friends, with the hardened soils about you?

Shall we discover the Fountain of Life and hide its existence from our families, from our friends, from our neighbors, and from the stranger that passes by. Would we not suffer from want of our sons and daughters, our wives, mothers and fathers, neighbors, etc. in an Eternity of Life alone with God? When the scroll of Heaven parts and time is no more, shall we go empty-handed before God because we selfishly guarded the secret of His Gospel? What defense can we utter at that time when our only son or daughter, or our postman, druggist, or merchant precedes us in judgment and tells the Lord, “I never knew because no one ever told me?” Then to feel, as did Peter the night of the Passion, the eyes of Christ turn upon us with that Great Question in His Face. Perhaps there would be bitter tears, even in Heaven?

The Church has lain silent far too long. It is time to serve as the salt of the earth – to speak out against the evils of our day. If the professing church in America would rise up with that One Voice of Christ, in condemning the murder of innocents in their mother’s wombs; the adulteration of the institution of marriage and its perversions away from the Creation model; the promiscuity, the pornographic sex education in schools; the forced elimination of prayer in school – if the Church were to stand up courageously and not cringe in political corners, then would there be change, but not until. What about you, friend: Do you leave your Christian faith at the door of the voting precinct? Do you prefer to remain silent in caving to public pressure to hide your faith always? If told to remove your lapel cross, do you brazenly remove the symbol of the One who died for you? Do you believe that changing times have changed the Sower’s Seed? Really? Is truth relative, or is truth ALWAYS truth?

Wake up church, and smell the poison in the cup of the world you have preferred to that of the Cup from which our Lord drank….NOW!

Bishop Jack Arnold

Anglican Orthodox Church of the United States

Training and Education Department

Diocese of the West

Church of the Faithful Centurion – Descanso, California

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/OTF7EH6mTJM

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 the common message of action as we prepare for the real meaning of Lent, which itself is a season of preparation. Let us start by reading today’s Collect:

The Sunday called Sexagesima, or the

second Sunday before Lent.

The Collect.

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

Think about these words:

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

In the Collect, we tell God we put our trust for eternal life not in our actions, but in His Power. We do this because we know that by our own selves we cannot obtain eternal life. Hence the “we put not our trust in anything we do.” We cannot trust anything we do without the guidance of the Holy Spirit. There is only one person who can help us achieve that and that is God. Thus that requires that we put our trust in His Power and not our selves. If we do this, then we must do as He asks us. For, to make trust in His Power rational, we must follow His Directions. We cannot trust our own sense of direction for spiritual matters; but must look to Our Heavenly Father for guidance. If we do not follow His Direction then we are surely going be just as lost as before we accepted Him into our hearts. The whole point of this collect is that we cannot rely on ourselves to get through the trials and tribulations of this life but that we need to rely on God and the Holy Spirit. With their help what seems impossible for us can and will become very possible, if we will let him into our hearts.

The Collect also goes on to explain this. It tells us that His Power is the only real power which can help us in times of trial and tribulation. His Power will protect our souls. We cannot protect our souls on our own, left to our own devices, we will surely fail. This is why we need God’s help. With God’s Help we will not fail but we will succeed. Our bodies may get beaten and bruised but if we trust in Him and let Him into our hearts, our souls will be intact. Our souls being intact is more important than our physical bodies, as our physical bodies are temporary but our souls are eternal. The key is that we to rely on His counsel and judgement. It is the only power which will give us comfort in times of adversity and strength to get through those times.

Recognizing that God has the power to help us overcome adversity is key. If we can recognize that then we are doing well. Of our own volition we can sometimes overcome physical adversity, but never spiritual. However with God’s help we can overcome both the physical and spiritual adversity. He will never fail to help us, we just have to listen to what He says and then act upon His Counsel.

Paul tells the Corinthians whatever they have suffered there compares nothing to what he has suffered for Christ in all of his labourings, watchings and fastings. Yet this is not his main point, which is in all of these sufferings he always drew on the power of the Holy Spirit and used the sufferings for God’s glory and not for his. Paul was transformed by the Holy Spirit from being one of the chief persecutors of the Church to being one of the main emissaries on earth for the Church. He is not bragging when he tells them of what he suffered, however, he is meaning to say he got through these hard times with God’s help and also to bring glory and point the way to God and His Son Jesus Christ. His point is if God helped him get through all of this turbulent and troubled experience, God can and will help us through these times too if we will but let Him. He told them of all of his sufferings so that they will understand that if they ever have to undergo such horrible events, God will be there for them and assist them in their trials and tribulations.

The main point is that He cannot help us if we do not let Him, so let us make sure we are opening our hearts to His Guidance. We have to willingly allow Him in. He will not force His way into our hearts, we have to willingly open them for Him to enter. We will be a much happier people if we do this.

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

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

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

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

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

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

While we are on the subject, consider the issue of weeding. In order for a garden to thrive, you need to consistently pull the weeds from the garden, otherwise the weeds will choke and kill the good plants. That is why we must always be wary of the world’s influence on the church and work to weed out that influence, so it does not choke the Biblical truths believed for over two millennia by Christians. In order to do this, we need to work hand in hand with our fellow believers to weed out any worldly influence or trouble within the church. This is why it is best that believers attend a Bible believing Church, where they can get valuable friendship and from that friendship, spiritual mentoring for their day to day lives. This is where the modern church has largely failed, not rooting out the weeds within the church but rather allowed them to prosper so that they choke the teachings of Scripture and give way to wordly teachigs. We must not allow this to happen.

So, think about this, we need to understand eternal life and indeed on a shorter term, happiness in our life here, comes not from our self-directed actions, but those of God and our action following His direction. The sooner we understand this and act upon this concept, the happier as a people we will be. We need to understand the implications of following our self-directed action, which if we follow, we will find death and misery awaiting us. However, if we put our trust in Him and follow His commands, all will be well with us and our souls. Understanding the difference between the two will help you prepare yourself for a happier physical and spiritual life. Do your best and look towards God for the Light to illuminate your path. If you prepare your heart, as the farmer prepares the field, root out the forces of this world as the farmer roots out weeds, cultivate the good given by God, water your heart with His Water, your life will be manifold.

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

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

It is by our actions we are known!

Be of God – Live of God – Act of God

Roy Morales-Kuhn, Bishop and Pastor – St. Paul’s Anglican Church – Anglican Orthodox Church

Bishop Roy is pastor of the biggest AOC parish West of the Mississippi. He wears many hats; he is the Bishop of the Master Diocese of the Midwest, the Diocese of the Epiphany as well as the Administrative Director of Central and South America. He is also the Suffragan Bishop of the Anglican Orthodox Church of the United States of America.

Sexagesima

Secular Picnic or Heavenly Feast

4 February 2024, Anno Domini

Psalm 147 • Ecclesiastes 11:1-6 • John 4:31-38

The Sunday called Sexagesima, or the

second Sunday before Lent.

The Collect.

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

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

Are you hungry? If you are, what are you looking for? Are you looking for fast food or a real meal? The supplies to both your body and soul think about it.

Do you major on the minors?

In John, we find the disciples trying to make sure Jesus has had something to eat. They were concerned he had not had an opportunity to eat. Meanwhile, as usual, Jesus is thinking on a much higher plane. He turns the question back to them. He indicates that the meat (food for a meal) he has is above the mundane day to day gathering for sustenance. Now, mind you, Jesus used meal time to teach many valuable lessons. When we look at the record, the feeding of the four thousand, the feeding of the five thousand, the various meals eaten over the course of his three and a half year ministry[2], all worked into a grand scheme of things. Not a scheme of man’s making, no the Grand Architecture of the building of the Kingdom of God.

Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. You can almost see the disciple talking among themselves, “…did you see someone bring food to the Master…where did He get food….?”. In the wonderful way of the Lord, he pulls the fellows into the spiritual realm. …my food (meat) is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Even though they had been told God the Father had sent him, the disciples still wondered what Jesus was talking about. …my meat is to do the will of him that sent me…. This is what Jesus was supposed to do and then the culmination of it; … and to finish his work…. But you know what, I don’t think we’d have been any different? We of this post-modern world, tend to major on the minors, we don’t look at the big picture, we tend to see small things instead of the grand scheme of our Creator and his Kingdom.

Who’s timing is it, anyway?

When we are living our daily lives, one hour at a time or even one day at a time, what do we tend to focus on? Do we look at what we think is the important daily schedule or activities planned or do we look at the long term plan or schedule?

Whose timing? Well, you might have guessed that answer. Yes, it is on God’s time and his scheduling. We are so easily led astray by thoughts of trying to fit every activity into a certain time-frame; and usually we fail miserably. We just don’t have enough time in the day to get everything finished. Right? Story of our lives. So why not look to God and see what his time schedule is?

Now let’s look at what Jesus asked his disciples in this reading for today. He used an agricultural concept to explain man’s way versus God’s way.

By general observation, the disciples could tell how far along the grain fields were and how many more months were needed before the grain would be ready to harvest. Jesus points this out. Then he goes spiritual on them, he says “..Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields (the world) for they are white (the color of ripening grain) already to harvest.. Of course he was indicating the harvest stage of humanity, NOW is the time of harvest.

It is time to start the harvest. That is the harvest of souls.

It is God’s time now. Jesus makes the point by saying: And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.

Notice that delineation, …I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour.. Someone else did the work, planted the seed, maybe watered the seed with encouraging scripture and now it is your time to reap what was sown. Again, all in God’s grand scheme of timing and method, not ours. We need to be so careful about not pushing our agenda instead of following God’s plan. We can see so many in ministry who go off the deep end because they are so bent on doing what they think is the Lord’s work, where in fact they are just doing what they think is the Lord’s work. So much chaos and confusion can ensue when we try to push in a direction that has little to no bearing on the Word of God.

In conclusion let us understand something here: it is by our reaching out both in Word and deed, that others see the Lord. And in seeing the Lord, they can become part of the harvest that Jesus was speaking of, they can become part of the kingdom.

In this understanding, it is by our daily lives, how we live our lives, according to the Word, that speaks the message of the Gospel. We can be either sowers or gatherers, those who share the Gospel by our lives or those who call the unrepentant to God. Either way, we are part of the workforce, the team, the spiritual agriculture that Jesus spoke about in our Gospel reading.

And in being in this team we can see the following: And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together”

As we approach the Lenten season, let us reflect on what the Lord did for us. How he came to dwell amongst us and guided us to his Kingdom. Let us think upon all that we do and say daily, does it reflect the actions of a laborer of Christ? Are we looking up and seeing the fields white unto harvest? Are we living our faith, shining our light, being what the Lord wants us to be, each and every day?

Let us pray:

LORD, accept, our intercessions for all mankind. Let the light of thy Gospel shine upon all nations; and may as many as have received it, live as becomes it. Be gracious unto thy Church; and grant that every member of the same, in his vocation and ministry, may serve thee faithfully. Bless all in authority over us; and so rule their hearts and strengthen their hands, that they may punish wickedness and vice, and maintain thy true religion and virtue. Send down thy blessings, temporal and spiritual, upon all our relations, friends, and neighbours. Reward all who have done us good, and pardon all those who have done or wish us evil, and give them repentance and better minds. Be merciful to all who are in any trouble; and do thou, the God of pity, administer to them according to their several necessities; for his sake who went about doing good, thy Son our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

OST merciful God, we beseech thee to continue thy gracious protection to us this day and into the night. Defend us from all dangers and mischiefs, and from the fear of them; that we may enjoy such refreshing sleep as may fit us for the duties of the coming day. And grant us grace always to live in such a state that we may never be afraid to die; so that, living and dying, we may be thine, through the merits and satisfaction of thy Son Christ Jesus, in whose Name we offer up these our imperfect prayers. Amen.

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

✟

Rev Bryan Dabney of Saint John’s Sunday Sermon

We are fortunate to have Bryan’s Sunday Sermon. If you want people to come to The Truth, you have to speak the truth, espouse the truth and live the truth. This is really a good piece and I commend it to your careful reading.

Sexagesima

The prophet Isaiah said, The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should speak a word in season to him that is weary… (50:4). And such is the calling of every soul in Christ Jesus— whether formally ordained or not— and regardless of their situation— either in the pulpit, at work, or at leisure. It does not matter the time or the place, we are to serve our Lord wherever and whenever he puts it on our hearts so to do. The synoptic gospel accounts contain the parable of the sower. This parable is in keeping with our lesson for today because in it, our Lord is the sower— the worker— planting the seed of the gospel. As Christ has worked so we as his followers are to do likewise in communicating his gospel of salvation to those who are weary with the cares and concerns of this world. On the other hand, the devil has endeavored to burden mankind with many sinful behaviors so as to separate them from the Godhead.

But God’s love for his creation is such that he desires all who are mired in sin to turn and confess those ills and be cleansed and made whole in his sight. And on that account, he has called upon his ministers to speak a word in season to him that is weary. God knows well that sin wearies our souls. He knows that it degrades us. He understands that if any unregenerated soul should pass the precincts of this life so burdened, they will end up eternally separated from him. That is why he has sent his ministers into the world so that those who would hear the gospel of salvation and accept it might be freed from their sins and trespasses. Nevertheless, before any minister can go forward in God’s service, he must be called of the Lord who will then supply him with the words to say. For without our Lord’s calling that person’s ministry will come to nothing and may even open the way for demonic spoliation. How many so-called “learned people” who are currently involved in ministry were truly called of God into his service? Bishop Ryle once observed that, “Thousands of ordained men in the present day know nothing whatever of Christ, except his name. They have not entered the door themselves, and they are unable to show it to others. Well would it be for Christendom if it were more widely known, and more seriously considered! Unconverted ministers are the dry-rot of the Church. When the blind lead the blind both must fall in the ditch. If we know the value of a man’s ministry, we must never fail to ask, Where is the Lamb? Where is the door? Does he bring forth Christ, and give Him his rightful place?”

Now a caveat is in order at this point as there is no assurance those who have entered the ministry are really called if they do not teach the whole counsel of God. We should never be afraid to inquire of those in the ministry concerning their understanding of “the faith which was once delivered to the saints.” Will they stand on the fundamentals of the Christian faith such as the Great Commission, the Triune nature of God, the reality of both Heaven and Hell, that salvation is only in one name: Jesus Christ, the Messiah who is King of kings and Lord of lords? Will they preach against the sins of the flesh and rebuke all that is unholy and unrighteous as noted in God’s word written? Mankind’s nature has not changed over the course of recorded history and so if one sticks to just what is mentioned in the Holy Bible that would pretty much cover everything. If you are familiar with the word, you won’t have to look too hard to find the places where the social sins of mankind are described in detail. But then, that is what the man of God will do. He will communicate the same to all both in his sermons and in his life lived. God desires that no one be lost; therefore the man who has learned of God will most assuredly proclaim what he has been given by his Master.

So it follows that if a man has been called of God, and has learned from him, he will seek to assist others in obtaining salvation. Words spoken in season are opportune words. They are meant to edify the weary Christian, or those whose faith is in its infancy. We all need encouragement and God understands that even those who think of themselves as strong in the faith need a boost in their spirits as they continue to persevere in the faith.

In his first general epistle Peter wrote, Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1:3-5). And further on in his first epistle he noted, As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen (4:10-11).

If God has called a man to minister in whatever capacity, he is to carry out his duties not merely to please men, but to please God. Further, his calling will be made plain by an in-filling of the Holy Ghost who will guide him into all truth.

Examine the apostle Peter’s ministry as found in the Book of Acts. The apostle witnessed to the Sanhedrin concerning our risen Lord when he said, for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved (4:12) and that name is Jesus Christ (4:10). The apostle ministered to the church at Jerusalem and to those throughout Judea. He ministered to Cornelius the centurion at Caesarea and witnessed the Holy Ghost come upon the gentiles. While he and the apostle Paul had their differences with regard to the requirements for gentiles to follow, both men accepted St. James’ counsel regarding those things that the gentiles must follow as members of the body of Christ (15:1-30).

The apostle Paul was also given to write about the particulars of ministry. In First Corinthians he chided his readers for creating needless divisions based upon who baptized them when he wrote, Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building (3:5-9). Our ministry and calling does not in any way give us a license to create divisions within the body of Christ. Therefore serve as you have been called and let God do his work in the big scheme of things.

Paul also spoke of the ministry of spiritual gifts in First Corinthians chapters 12-14. In Chapter 12, he wrote, Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are difference of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal (vv.4-7). In Chapter 13, the apostle noted that those gifts of ministry must be governed by charitable love: And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity (v.13). In Chapter 14, Paul noted that prophecy is the greatest of the gifts exercised in charity as opposed to speaking in tongues. For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men for edification, and exhortation, and comfort. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church (vv.2-4). Towards the end of the chapter, the apostle set the parameters for both prophesying and speaking in an unknown tongue. Thus it follows that a minister should see to it that these provisos be observed within his church for as St. Paul noted further, Let all things be done decently and in order (v.40).

In Chapter 3 of his first epistle to Timothy, the apostle supplied the requirements for the offices of elders and deacons, while in Chapter 4 he warned his charge concerning seducing spirits and doctrines of devils (v.1), prohibitions on marriage and food items (vv.3-5); bodily exercise as a opposed to exercises in godliness (v.8) and finally to, Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee (v.16). In his second epistle to the same, the apostle reminded the young man to, Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us (1:13-14).

The apostle John also supplied us with words of instruction concerning those called into the ministry. In his third epistle, the beloved disciple contrasted the behavior of Diotrephes and the good Demetrius. The former was engaged in idle talk or gossip against both John and those brothers in the ministry that were associated with the apostle (vv.9-11). On the other hand, Demetrius hath a good report of all men, and of the truth itself: yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true (v.12).

As we have seen, the prophet Isaiah’s message is timeless in its nature and applicability. When we hear those words— The Lord GOD hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should speak a word in season to him that is weary… (50:4)— they should speak comfort to our souls. The good news of Jesus Christ is what ministers ought to be speaking. The encouraging word, the admonishing word, as well as the rebuking word are part and parcel of what ought to be communicated. Sometimes, ministers will focus on one or two of those mentioned, but in every case, we must present the whole counsel of God to our congregations. The ministry has changed only in certain technical aspects, but the message remains the same. God is the supplier of all knowledge concerning his will and purpose for those who have accepted his calling. Let us then go forth this day living in obedience, fighting the good fight, and proclaiming the truth of God’s word both with our lips and our lives that others will see and give God the glory for their salvation.

Let us pray,

EAVENLY Father, who hast given to us those gifts of thy most holy Spirit to carry out in thy name; grant us grace sufficient to the tasks which you have set before us; that we might speak thy word in due season to those who are in need of them; for this we ask in the name of thy Son, our Saviour, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Have a blessed week,

Bryan+

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

Why? Prayer is an extremely important activity.

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

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

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

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

What is the commitment from the prayer team?

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

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

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

What should I ask for?

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

Updating the Team

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

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

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

Corona Virus

Alan Ridenour’s father is hospitalized on a ventilator with Covid. They are trying to get him off the ventilator and it is close. Please pray for strength for him and his family. Pray 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

Dru Arnold celebrated her 69^th birthday on 2 February 2024, she did not see her shadow, so there will be six more weeks of winter. That is not so bad in Descanso, California.

Roy Morales-Kuhn celebrated his 70^th birthday on 23 December 2023.

Debbie Ogles celebrated her 81^st birthday on 15 November 2023.

Departed

Johnie Ratcliff, (CPO USN Retired, passed away the morning of 23 January 2024. Bishop Jerry said it best: Johnie is, by no means, dead, but smoother sailing than we can ever imagine. He is quiet, unassuming, and constant in devotion as a friend as well as a devoted husband to his beautiful wife, Paulette. Over the coming ages, Johnie may be forgotten by all on earth, but he shall never be forgotten by the Friend above every other friend, our Lord Jesus Christ. Please pray for the comforting influences of the Holy Spirit to be with Paulette and his family in a powerful way as they grieve this temporary separation.

Major Tom Connell, a good friend of Hap Arnold, passed away on 18 January 2024, after a two year battle with abdominal cancer to remove a tumor. Tom is a good guy and a faithful Christian; he was grateful for weathering this and the comfort God provided to him and his family. He asks you give thanks for his safe passing and for comfort and strength for his family who of necessity remain behind.

Billie Broome passed away on 16 January 2024, as the result of a burst aorta, after a stroke, femur, knee and hip surgery. Please pray for peace of soul and mind for her husband Rick and family. They are all strong Christians, but as with most of us somewhat prone to worry.

Betsy Bretz, wife of Bobby, passed away 11 December 2023. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and for God to give comfort to Bobby and their family at the temporary separation.

Immediate Prayer Please

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.

Harper Cavanah, granddaughter of Rev. James and Dawn Cavanah, is 9 years old, autistic, non-verbal, and has a long history of digestive issues and problems. Harper is back in the hospital with another apparent intestinal blockage. Please pray for Harper, her parents Dustin & Vicki and the medical team. Please pray for peace and comfort to the family and wisdom, knowledge, and skill to the doctors and medical team.

22 December 2023 – Great news! Thanks be to God who answers the prayers of His people in accordance with His sovereign and perfect will. In this case, He heard your pleas for Harper and her family and has done more than we could ask or imagine. She made it beautifully through the surgical procedure on the intestinal blockage and is doing so well that she was discharged last evening. She is recovering at home and doing very well. We are all very thankful to you our prayer warriors for your prayers and your encouraging words. In addition, the medical team has issued some new protocols for home care in the hope that these will keep Harper from having further issues. Again, thank you for your prayers and for your continued prayers! Most of all, THANKS BE TO GOD!

Jim+ & Dawn

Dustin, Vicki, Harper, and Kaylee

Ditte remains in the ICU with pneumonia and AFIB, she has been suffering from cancer; she decided to forego surgery and attempt to slow the spread by chemotherapy; on top of all that, her eldest son died. Please pray for this family.

Sunghyun Mun, accidentally broke bones in his hand while operating a piece of equipment at his father’s business. He will undergo surgery 18 December 2023.

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:

We face a big flood in Bago where I am living now. It has been 2 days and many people in my area moved to another area where the water cannot reach. We are safe by grace` but some houses of my members are going to sink very soon if the rain is not stopped. In the pictures` the houses are in the midst of water damage and there is a house of my member in this place. They cannot go to anywhere to purchase their foods. So dear Bishop and friends` you all are kindly requested to pray for me and my Church members in Myanmar. Thank you all

Myeongsu Kim, father of Minki, one of Bishop Jerry’s congregation members, has been diagnosed with Colorectal cancer. He is i beginning radiation/chemo treatment prior to surgery. Please pray for peace of mind for him and his family and for guidance for the medical team treating him.

Viera Djurcik, mother of Bishop Igor Djurcik from Serbia, had her left leg amputated above the knee as the result of gangrene. The surgery was successful, but she has a long road ahead for recovery. Please give thank for successful surgery and pray for complete and rapid recovery for Viera and for peace of mind for her and her family.

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 fell on stairs and while apparently broke nothing, is very sore and scared herself. 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 1/3 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 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. 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[3]. 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.

Gary Anderson of Enterprise has been hospitalized with unknown illness. He requests prayer for diagnosis and healing.

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

Evelyn is in hospice care at home and her daughters, Linda, Marie, Patty and Joanne, as well as her granddaughters, Samantha and Jennifer as they all are attending to Evelyn at home.

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

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

Bobby Bretz is having a kidney removed on 18 December 2023.

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

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

Doug recently became unemployed from his job of 18 years. He has been applying for jobs, but unable to get one at this time. His wife is working; this is not enough for the family. Please pray he will find employment with a firm that will be able to use his considerable skill and hard work to benefit both the firm and the family.

Lori is considering a potential change in her employment. Please pray for God’s guidance in considering all aspects of her potential work.

Financial Guidance and Healing

Clark is in need of salvation; for God’s Will to be done in his life. Pray his family will be blessed with the financial miracles that come from doing His Will.

Guidance

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Eli has some mental issues and has lost his way. He has yet to come to grips with the demons chasing him. 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 that the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so that they might be more effective in spreading the Word of God.

Diocese of Virginia

Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church is under a lot of stress. We all are, but they need even more prayer. Rev Roger Jessup, their wonderful minister, had to retire as he was so pressed by the duties of a primary care giver, in addition to all the worries of this world. Pray for trust in God for each member of the parish and for them to find economic relief.

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 Jennings (USAF – KC-10 Boom Operator – McGuire AFB, NJ), 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

Kai Mandella gives thanks for his recovery from Covid.

Hap gives thanks for his recovery from Covid.

Tricia gives thanks for her recovery from Covid.

Shamu gives thanks for recovery from Covid.

Rev Yves Mera and his wife give thanks for recovery from Covid.

Rev Eddie Pressey from St. George’s Anglican Church of Ventura gives thanks for recovery from Covid.

Bishop David Pressey from St. George’s Anglican Church of Ventura gives thanks for recovery from Covid.

Lynn and Katie Hall give thanks for recovery from Covid.

Amy Jamieson gives thanks for recovery from Covid.

Hope and Ralph DeLong give thanks for recovery from Covid.

What is Sexagesima?

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

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

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

The Gospel reading for Sexagesima week is the parable of the sower (Luke 8:4).

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

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

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

[2] Before you ever think you cannot make a difference, the greatest change ever to come on the earth since the Seventh Day, came from one man, albeit God incarnate, in three and a half years. What can you do in one day or one month or one year? You can make a change. That is why God put us here – to make a change.

[3] 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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