Anglican Orthodox Church
Worldwide Communion
Twentieth Sunday after Trinity
Sunday Report
Today we celebrated the Twentieth Sunday after Trinity and the revenge of Standard Time as we fell back an hour and darkness fell over the earth an hour earlier!
On Point
Someone asked, where do the quotes come from? The answer is from the people who uttered them. But, how did you find them? Oh, that. Some from Bishop Jerry, many from Rev Bryan Dabney, a few from other places, some from Rev Geordie Menzies-Grierson, but overall mostly from Bryan. He always has some great ones to share. On to the On Point quotes –
For the Love of God
Some writers use the word charity to describe not only Christian love between human beings, but also God’s love for man and man’s love for God. About the second of these two, people are often worried. They are told they ought to love God. They cannot find any such feeling in themselves. What are they to do? The answer is the same as before. Act as if you did. Do not sit trying to manufacture feelings. Ask yourself, ‘If I were sure that I loved God, what would I do?’ When you have found the answer, go and do it.
On the whole, God’s love for us is a much safer subject to think about than our love for Him. Nobody can always have devout feelings: and even if we could, feelings are not what God principally cares about. Christian Love, either towards God or towards man, is an affair of the will. If we are trying to do His will we are obeying the commandment, ‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God.’ He will give us feelings of love if He pleases. We cannot create them for ourselves, and we must not demand them as a right. But the great thing to remember is that, though our feelings come and go, His love for us does not. It is not wearied by our sins, or our indifference; and, therefore, it is quite relentless in its determination that we shall be cured of those sins, at whatever cost to us, at whatever cost to Him.
Jack Lewis
Mere Christianity
Compound Interest
Though Christian charity sounds a very cold thing to people whose heads are full of sentimentality, and though it is quite distinct from affection, yet it leads to affection. The difference between a Christian and a worldly man is not that the worldly man has only affections or ‘likings’ and the Christian has only ‘charity’. The worldly man treats certain people kindly because he ‘likes’ them: the Christian, trying to treat every one kindly, finds himself liking more and more people as he goes on—including people he could not even have imagined him- self liking at the beginning.
This same spiritual law works terribly in the opposite direction. The Germans, perhaps, at first ill-treated the Jews because they hated them: afterwards they hated them much more because they had ill-treated them. The more cruel you are, the more you will hate; and the more you hate, the more cruel you will become — and so on in a vicious circle for ever.
Good and evil both increase at compound interest. That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance. The smallest good act today is the capture of a strategic point from which, a few months later, you may be able to go on to victories you never dreamed of. An apparently trivial indulgence in lust or anger today is the loss of a ridge or railway line or bridgehead from which the enemy may launch an attack otherwise impossible.
Jack Lewis
Mere Christianity
The Foundation
[In a democracy] a common passion or interest will, in almost every case, be felt by a majority of the whole; a communication and concert results from the form of government itself; and there is nothing to check the inducements to sacrifice the weaker party or an obnoxious individual.
James Madison
Federalist No. 10, 1787
Fret not thyself because of evil doers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.
Psalm 37:1-2
Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.
Proverbs 10:12
I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible.
Jeremiah 15:21
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Even those orders of governance which have been ordained by God can be perverted from their original purposes and transformed into realms of wickedness and vice.
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Few men in history have ever even attempted to live by God’s laws.
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God will not only judge the people of every nation and kingdom for their bad behavior, but he will judge them for the evil deeds of their rulers as well.
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Godly rulers are a blessing to their people; while their wicked counterparts are a detriment to them.
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God’s messengers— the prophets— have supplied mankind with warnings against bad behavior so that no person can say that they were truly unaware that what they were doing was evil in the eyes of God.
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God’s judgment will come. It is not a question of IF but WHEN.
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God’s justice demands obedience, and that all who will live in obedience will be preserved.
Bryan Dabney
AOC Minister
Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD’s anger.
Zephaniah 2:3
Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole..
St. Mark 10:52
He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust in much.
St. Luke16:10
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.
Galatians 5:1
In vain do we pretend that God is our God if we do not receive his law into our hearts and resign ourselves to the government of it.
Matthew Henry
17th and 18th century English pastor and author
The lukewarm [Laodicean] Christian has enough of Jesus to satisfy a craving for religion, but not enough for eternal life.
David Guzik
20th and 21st century Christian pastor
And all the earth was of one language and one speech (Genesis 11:1). It is impossible not to draw parallels between the opening of the story of the Tower of Babel and the modern global village. Once again, the entire world is of one language and one speech. Everyone is connected to everyone, speaking to everyone and at least in the Western world, everyone is motivated by the same ideas. Ultimately, this uniformity leads to a war against the Creator and to the re-scattering of humanity. We are at the threshold of a new age. It could be that we are witnessing the waning of the modern nation state. Europe and the US are bankrupt. After an era of swift economic growth accompanied by moral decadence, the unavoidable stage of disintegration is upon us. And they said, Let us build for us a city and tower and its top will be in heaven, and we will make for us a name, lest we be scattered on the face of the earth (Genesis 11:4). The Tower of Babel was not a temple to God. It was a temple to man. The Western nations that have made man the focal point of existence are morally bankrupt and have lost their founding ethos. As a result, they are also economically bankrupt. Only a small bit of foresight is necessary to understand that the Western economies do not have any real ability to stand on their feet again. It is quite possible that we will also witness their political disintegration. Time and again, entities that are not states defeat the ever-weakening nation-states. In light of this reality, Israel must develop a long-term strategy that will take into account a completely different world structure than the one to which we have been accustomed in the modern era.
Moshe Feiglin
21st Israeli statesman
“Global Tower: A Torah Thought for Parshat Noach”, Oct-23-2014
I continue to hope and pray that the seemingly inexorable march towards a rending of this Republic can be resolved peaceably, but I am a student of history, and know that once the citizenry has judged the government is a threat and not a servant, then that government will fall, or will continue down the path of becoming monsters, devouring the very people they are sworn to protect.
Bob Owens
21st century American commentator
Propers
Each Sunday there are Propers: special prayers and readings from the Bible. There is a Collect for the Day; that is a single thought prayer, most written either before the re-founding of the Church of England in the 1540s or written by Bishop Thomas Cranmer, the first Archbishop of Canterbury after the re-founding.
The Collect for the Day is to be read on Sunday and during Morning and Evening Prayer until the next Sunday. The Epistle is normally a reading from one of the various Epistles, or letters, in the New Testament. The Gospel is a reading from one of the Holy Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Collect is said by the minister as a prayer, the Epistle can be read by either a designated reader (as we do in our church) or by one of the ministers and the Holy Gospel, which during the service in our church is read by an ordained minister.
The propers are the same each year, except if a Red Letter Feast, that is one with propers in the prayerbook, falls on a Sunday, then those propers are to be read instead, except in a White Season, where it is put off. Red Letter Feasts, so called because in the Altar Prayerbooks the titles are in red, are special days. Most of the Red Letter Feasts are dedicated to early saints instrumental in the development of the church, others to special events. Some days are particularly special and the Collect for that day is to be used for an octave (eight days) or an entire season, like Advent or Lent.
The Propers for today are found on Page 217-218, with the Collect first:
Twentieth Sunday after Trinity
The Collect.
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ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, of thy bountiful goodness keep us, we beseech thee, from all things that may hurt us; that we, being ready both in body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things which thou commandest; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Epistle for today came from Saint Paul’s letter to the Ephesians beginning at the Fifteenth Verse of the Fifth Chapter. “… the days are evil. … understand… what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; …” God wants us to be happy, to be good and to enjoy life. The key to happiness is to do what God asks of you. No more (you can’t), no less. Though you fall short, keep trying, that is all God asks. If you find this no other place, listen to the words of St. Paul.
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ee then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Today’s Holy Gospel came from the Twenty-Second Chapter of the Gospel according to St. Matthew beginning at the First Verse. Talking to the priests and scribes, Jesus told one of the wedding parables, “The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: and the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then” he sent “his servants … into the highways” to “gather… together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding-garment: and he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding-garment?[1] And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.
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esus said, The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: and the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding-garment: and he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding-garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen.
Bishop Ogles’ Sermon
Bishop Jerry is traveling to visit the Anglican Orthodox Churches in Serbia and Macedonia. Right now, he is in Belgrade and meeting with AOC ministers there. Today’s sermon starts off with the collect, and like always, it will give you a lot to consider in your heart.
Belgrade – confluence of Sava and Danube Rivers last night
Sermon Notes – From Belgrade, Serbia – 2 November 2014, Anno Domini
Twentieth Sunday after Trinity
The Collect.
O |
ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, of thy bountiful goodness keep us, we beseech thee, from all things that may hurt us; that we, being ready both in body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things which thou commandest; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
A |
nd Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said, 2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, 3 And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. 4 Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. 5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: 6 And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. 7 But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. 8 Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. 9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. 10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests. 11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: 12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. 13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 14 For many are called, but few are chosen. (Matthew 22)
The heart of a Little Boy
(I have written out for the benefit of those who may only read these notes):
A little boy was diagnosed with a severe heart deformity which demanded surgery, or the boy would surely die. The surgery itself also presented a dangerous threat to the little boy’s life. The very professional cardiologist explained, in gruesome detail and with a measure of cold detachment, the serious nature of the surgery. The little boy seemed unmoved by the discussion, so the doctor said (with apparent irritation), “Don’t you know that I might find a condition that could kill you?” The little boy responded happily, “I know what you will find, and it makes me happy to know it.” The doctor was dumbfounded at the apparent indifference of the boy, but scheduled the surgery anyway.
Upon entering the chest cavity and seeing the little heart, the doctor was dismayed. The boy’s heart would require his greatest skill to repair. He worked professional and meticulously to undo a deadly condition that had afflicted the boy since birth. His professional pride, and not any sense of compassion, motivated the hands and mind of the cardiologist.
Against all odds, the surgery was a great success and the boy was restored with a normal heart at last.
As the doctor later explained to the boy the serious nature of the surgery and the damage he had found in the boy’s heart, the little boy smiled. The doctor, greatly puzzled, asked, “Do you mock my skills as a surgeon. Do you not believe what I have told you I found in your heart?”
The little boy replied, “You have not told me the most important thing you found in my heart which makes all the rest better – Jesus!” The cardiologist was shocked and humbled by this courageous little boy’s answer. As a result, he finally did find Jesus in his own heart.
The sermon text today is of a great man who was planning a grand wedding feast for His Son. He had gone to great expense and time-consuming preparation to insure that every detail was perfect.
Let’s examine the nature, first of all, of the nature of this invitation:
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It is extended to everyone, wide and far.
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It will be rejected by the heartless and indifference
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Rejection provokes the justifiable ANGER of GOD! – Each of us exists either under His kind favor or His great anger. Under God’s anger, or under God’s love, we must be, whether we will or not. We cannot flee from His presence. We cannot go from His Spirit. If we are loving, and so rise up to heaven, God is there—in love. If we are cruel and wrathful, and so go down to hell, God is there also—in wrath. With the clean He will be clean; with the froward man He will be froward. On us, and us alone, it depends whether we shall live under God’s anger or live under God’s love.
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The great King had composed a list of friends and subjects whom he had befriended with many kindnesses in the past. He was sure that they would be honored to come to the feast.
But these ungrateful acquaintances would not come.
The King was grieved that these people, whom he had helped so many ways, would not even honor His own Son. 4 Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
He was a King and unaccustomed to begging, but, for His Son’s sake, he besought the people to please come and honor His Son.
How did these vile people respond to the King’s pleadings?
5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise: 6 And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.
The Great Sovereign of all power was angered:
7 But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
In the year 70 AD (about 35 years after the crucifixion of Christ), the Roman commander, Titus, erected battlements against the walls of Jerusalem. After a prolonged siege in which the inhabitants of Jerusalem actually ate their own babies, the walls fell and Titus butchered every male, and took the females captive as slaves to the rough Roman guards.
8 Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy
All who reject the invitation of Christ are unworthy of His Grace and Love.
God the Father is seeking a bride for His only Begotten Son. He sent prophets and priest to invite ancient Israel to come unto Him. But what was done to these righteous from Abel to Zaccharias?
34 Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city: 35 That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar. (Matthew 24:34-35)
When the servants (prophets) were murdered by the King’s subjects (old Israel), the King sends forth his messengers to find others. None were to be ignored. Every persons, regardless of race, wealth, worth, or character were to be invited (the new Israel). All who will, COME.
9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.
The Apostles went forth to all nations following the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, inviting all to come.
10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests
Many are found by the servants (evangelists) and are called, but simply being called to the throne of God is not enough: one must be chosen as well. God calls great numbers – in fact, all who will hear His voice, He calls. But hearing the voice of God requires, also, that we respond in obedience.
We may receive an invitation in the mail to visit with the President of the United States, but this will never happen unless we respond to the invitation.
We must come to Christ, not slothenly or sloppily dressed, but in our finest and most respectful apparel. And our demeanor must reflect that respect and reverence in His Presence as well.
11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
We should never be careless in our service to Christ. We must be animated by the strong love we have for our precious souls. We must be fervent and mindful of every detail (Commandment).
We dare not come before Christ, under any circumstance, as His enemy. He considers all who come His Friends unless they prove unworthy through dress (lifestyle) or manners (behavior and appearance).
The King rebukes the man who came unprepared to show respect for the King or His Son:
12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless
This man had not received willingly the white robe of righteousness (salvation) which the father offers as a covering for our nakedness (sins).
On that day when we go before the White Throne of Judgment, if we have been desperate sinners, we will be as speechless in our defense as the woman taken in adultery. So was this man.
Our decisions made here on terra firma will decide our destinies in eternity – either heaven or hell.
13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
14 For many are called, but few are chosen
Sermon – Rev Jack Arnold
Church of the Faithful Centurion – Descanso, California
Today’s sermon tied the Collect, Epistle and Gospel together and talked, as is oft the case, of the need for action, not simply diction.
Consider the words of the Collect, “…God … keep us, … from all things that may hurt us; that we, being ready both in body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things which thou commandest …”
The Collect asks God to keep us from the things that are bad for us and make our hearts ready so we can do the things He wants us to do ties perfectly with the Epistle and Gospel as almost always it does. Thomas Cramner was one smart man is all I have to say, how he managed to theme the collects around the unifying message of the Epistle and the Gospel is nothing short of brilliant.
One word that intrigues me from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians is “circumspectly”; which when I looked it up meant “wary and unwilling to take risks.” I believe Paul meant in these troubled days, we should not be taking risks with our faith, but walking in that which has been tried and true for over two thousands years. We cannot risk comprising the integrity of the faith, with newfangled modernistic New Age spirituality, as some of the liberal mega churches are wont to do. If God has not changed over the millennia, why should we change what we believe?
Indeed, we should not change our position, if it is truly derived from His Holy Word, then it should never change. Any sermon or talk from a minister or bishop must be scrutinized by how it matches up with the concepts in Holy Scripture. If it conflicts with Scripture, then you know that minister is not in line with His Word. We must all strive to be in congruence with His Word, be it bishop, priest, deacon or layperson. We are all working together in His Church to further His Cause. If we are not all on the same page, then we are not furthering His Work.
Paul warns us against the dangers of drunkenness, but he does not mean never to drink wine, as some, (Puritans and certain Baptists, among others) would take, but rather have “moderation in all things”; which is a similar idea to what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 6:12 “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.” Just because you can do something, like drinking or eating, does not mean that you should do it to excess where it can cause you harm. Eating too much can cause you stomach problems, something we want to avoid. Drinking too much can cause serious issues, not the least of which is hangovers. The worst is drinking to death.
Our Lord wants us to be moderate in our celebrations, not celebrating to the point of excess where bad things can happen to our bodies and our minds, but celebrating to where we are thankful to Him for all things, and for His Love.
This seems to be the unifying theme of both the Epistle and the Gospel for today. Rather than turn to the excesses of this world, Paul says we must turn to God and be filled with His Grace of the Holy Spirit. Making joyful noises to the Lord, be it in prayer or in song, and giving thanks always for all things to God.
Giving thanks always to God should be one of our top priorities. More often than not we seem to forget who made us, who created the world we dwell in, who created the fantastic beasts on land and on the sea. It seems very strange we forget to thank God for all of these things, but we do. Making a joyful noise unto the Lord is part of how we can do this, besides prayer and thanksgiving. Be it through songs, happy declarations to the Lord or joyful worship, these are all ways we can send our joy unto our Lord. This is part of the reason it is important to say prayers like the Gloria in the prayer book with “liveliness”, we are expressing our praise and thanksgiving unto God, for having sent His Son down to save us from our wicked selves.
In our lives, we should be grateful to God more than we are. At least, I know I am often not thankful to Him, when I should be. That is the troublesome aspect of having free will, we so often exercise it, not to the Glory of God, but for our own means. We have to turn away from that temptation, and let the Holy Spirit in and guide us, to thanking God for what He has done for us in our lives.
The Gospel’s story has troubled me for many years now, wondering why the King cast out a man, whose only error appeared to be that of the wrong clothes. When I thought about it more, and in many discussions, I found that in days of old, wedding garments were furnished by the host. Thus, if one did not appear properly clothed it was because they intentionally chose not to be. This brought me to the realization that the wrong clothes was Jesus’ metaphor for one who is not prepared for heaven, not walking in God, not filled with the Holy Spirit, and that is why he was cast out of the wedding (which is implied to be heaven. And the King stands in for God in the tale.) He was not prepared to enter the great feast of heaven. His incorrect clothing is a metaphor for many in our lifetime who are not in a prepared state to enter heaven, as they have neither confessed nor repented of their sins to our Lord and have not accepted Him as our saviour.
This man is very much like Esau, when he sold his birthright to Jacob. Esau did not care enough for his birthright, he wanted food more than the permanent status of the birthright which seemed so far off at the time. It is the same with this man and many others in the world. Through Christ, we have a birthright of our own, the Kingdom of God, as God’s adopted children. However, some will gladly trade away this birthright for a bauble or trinket in the present, not knowing what a foolish mistake they are making.
The Collect, Epistle and Gospel tie together, laying out, detailing and reinforcing the same message ultimately. We have to ready and willing to listen to God, and walk in God, and act with the Holy Spirit in us, in order to have the right “clothes” to enter into the kingdom of heaven.
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?
The time to act is NOW. Will you act? For whom will you act? Will you count the cost before you act?
Action, not diction, is what counts. It is by your actions you are known.
Be of God – Live of God – Act of God
Bishop Dennis Campbell’s Sermon
Bishop Dennis is a brilliant speaker. He is able to take biblical precepts and make them perfectly understandable, even to me. Oft he provides the text of his sermons and I take the utmost pleasure in passing them on:
God and Country
Twentieth Sunday after Trinity
November 2, 2014
Several things combine to make this day an important day. First of course, it is the Lord’s Day. It is the Day God calls His people together to worship Him in His Church. God meets with His people on this Day. He comes to us with grace and blessings which He gives to us freely through the reading and proclamation of the Bible, through the sacraments, and through the communion of saints we spoke about in the Apostles’ Creed. These things are meat and wine to our souls. They strengthen us in our journey of faith. There is an old Gospel song that says, “We’re marching upward to Zion, the beautiful City of God.” But every traveler needs rest and food. This day is rest and food to us. It is meat the world knows not of.
At the same time,we give our love, faith, and worship to God. Jesus said His meat is to do the will of God. We, too can eat of that meat, and we do eat of it in many ways. One of the most important is this gathering with our family in Christ to worship God.
Second, yesterday was All Saints Day, when we commemorate those who have gone before us in the faith and service of Christ. Although we did not have a special service to commemorate the day, we can still commemorate it today. Why commemorate All Saints Day? It reminds us we did not create the Church or the faith. They have come to us as a gift through many generations of faithful people. Many people devoted their lives to their preservation. Many gave their lives rather than forsake them. We are the beneficiaries of their labors and their love. Thinking of their faithfulness reminds me that the Faith, the Church, and the worship of God are not toys to be played with according to our whims or the prevailing fads of this world. They are treasures to be cherished. They were given to us intact, and it is our duty to preserve and deliver them intact to the next generation. We have what we have because of their faithfulness. What will the coming generations have because of us?
Third, many churches celebrate the first Sunday after October 31 as Reformation Day. It was on October 31, 1517 that Martin Luther pinned his Ninety-Five Thesis to the church door in Wittenberg, Germany, which was a major event in the restoration of Biblical faith and worship to the Church. I prefer the word “restoration” to “reformation” because the Faith and worship were not re made, as in creating a new one. Rather, the old faith was restored to the Church. The old faith had been almost obscured by additional ceremonies and doctrines that gradually crept into the Church, like a beautiful, marble building obscured by layers of gaudy paint and paper. The Reformers removed these layers, and the Church was able to see the real, Biblical faith again.
Like All Saints Day, Restoration Day also reminds me to be careful about the Faith and Worship we have been given. The Faith is not mine to change to make it more pleasing to myself or others. The Church is not mine to be conformed to my tastes and ideas. The Bible is not mine to edit according to the likes and dislikes of my sinful inclinations. These things belong to God and are given to us as gifts of His grace. They are to be used and preserved according to His will not ours.
There is yet another thing that makes this day important. This Tuesday the American people will go to the polls and decide who they will entrust with the service of government at various levels. This, too, is important, and warrants our attention, and our prayers, this morning.
Naturally our vote deserves prayerful attention. The Bible says whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” If we plant good things in our lives we will reap good things. If we plant bad things, we will reap bad things. This is especially true in the spiritual realm. If we plant Godliness in our souls, we will reap the blessings of Godliness, in this life, and in the life to come. If we plant sin, or even a casual and lukewarm attitude toward God and the things of God, we will reap the fruit of ungodliness. I often speak with people who have been very casual about God, and find that their casual faith cannot comfort them in the many, serious trials of life. Such people often say God has let them down. God wasn’t there when they needed Him. And they are angry and bitter at God. What else should they expect? They are reaping what they have sown. They built their houses on the sand instead of upon the rock of the word of God, and when the great storms of life struck them, their houses of sand collapsed. And they have no one to blame but themselves.
The same principle applies to a family, community, state, or nation. If we sow evil things we will reap evil things. If we sow good things we will reap good things. If we elect ungodly people to office, they will do ungodly things. I am not just saying they will allow vice and immorality to flourish. They will do that. But even worse, they will turn father against son and mother against daughter, and church against church as people contend for competing ideas and values. And the more people compete, the more of their own real freedom they surrender, for they give more and more power to the government to decide and enforce what will and will not be allowed.
Even worse, they will corrupt government, and use its power to enrich themselves and harm others. One of the worst things to happen in human history was when the wealthy families of Europe found they could enrich themselves even more if they could get one of their sons elected Bishop of Rome. To achieve personal wealth and power, they corrupted the process by which the pope, and other leaders in the Church, were elected. Greedy, worldly, and Godless men became Bishops, priests, and deacons, and led Europe into spiritual corruption and darkness. It was because of this corruption that the Reformation/Restoration of the 16th and 17th centuries became necessary. Even the Restoration was not complete; that is why Christianity is splintered and fragmented to this very day.
Long before the corruption of the Church leaders, people in civil government learned to use their positions to empower and enrich themselves and their supporters. We must always be alert to such tactics.
We must never assume that a political person, or party is the solution to America’s problems, because America’s problems are not political. America’s problems are spiritual, and spiritual problems can only be solved by spiritual means. America;s problems will only be solved when Americans stop playing Church, and get serious about God. Our National Constitution, along with the Constitution of our own Commonwealth, is based on the hope that “we the people” are informed and involved in the political process, and that our ideals and values are solidly based on the teachings of God in the Holy Bible. It presumes that we will elect people to office who uphold and support these same values, and that we will scrutinize every thing they say and every law they pass through the lens of Holy Scripture. Without that lens and without that base, we no longer have anything to unify us as a people, or to judge the candidates and their laws. Without it, principle and truth no longer form the basis of our unity. We diversify according to special interests and political expediency. The only validity of any law, and the only validity of any politician is the fifty-one percent vote. And the fifty-one percent vote becomes nothing more than a tyranny of numbers.
Allow me one final observation. The United States is not the Kingdom of God. The Church is the Kingdom of God on earth, and the Church always lives in Rome. Rome, as you remember, was sometimes very friendly to the Church, and sometimes very hostile to it. The Church of Jesus Christ is scattered among many “Romes.” We dwell in many nations, and none is the Kingdom of God. We must not confuse the nation with the Kingdom, or the state with the Church. Having said that, I hasten to say we are always willing to pray and work for the well-being of the state.
We are always willing to be good citizens, and to obey its just laws and honor its just rulers. In that spirit, may we pray for our country, and responsibly cast our votes.
+Dennis Campbell
Bishop, Anglican Orthodox Church Diocese of Virginia
Rector, Holy Trinity Anglican Orthodox Church
Powhatan, Virginia
www.HolyTrinityAnglicanOrthodoxChurch.org
www.lifeinthescriptures.blogspot.com
Roy Morales-Kuhn, Bishop and Pastor – St. Paul’s Anglican Church – Anglican Orthodox Church
Bishop Roy is pastor of the biggest AOC parish West of the Mississippi and is in charge of the Diocese of the Epiphany.
Twentieth Sunday after Trinity
2 November 2014
Ephesians 5.15-21 • Matthew 22.1-14
The Collect.
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ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, of thy bountiful goodness keep us, we beseech thee, from all things that may hurt us; that we, being ready both in body and soul, may cheerfully accomplish those things which thou commandest; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
In today’s Epistle and Gospel we find some hard sayings; sayings and precepts that have many times been taken out of context. Why don’t we unpack them at this time and see what is being discussed by St Paul and Jesus as recorded by St. Matthew.
Paul is writing to the church at Ephesus, where great commercial activity took place, a wealthy city in the eastern part of the Roman Empire, and yet a thriving Christian enclave existed. Paul was reviewing what characteristics should be seen by the unbelievers in the city.
A circumspect people, using time wisely, not given to wine, that is drunk with wine, and notice how he ties that into a spiritual sense of living. “..be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit…” He is saying don’t let the spirit of wine rule you, let the Holy Spirit of God rule you instead. And how do you nourish that wisdom and understanding of the will of the Lord? You speak to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, and here is the neatest part of that nourishing nature…. “….singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord…”
15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
I remember as a young boy growing up overseas a lady who worked for us several times a week. Gwen would come to our house about 8 o clock in the morning, she would gather up all the ironing {before the days of perma-press} and begin to sprinkle water on the clothes in preparation to do the ironing. All the while Gwen would be humming or singing gospel songs and hymns. I remember how positive she was, didn’t matter if her bus was late, or it was raining or if it was super hot, she was singing and making melody in her heart to the Lord.
I know one day I will see Gwen again. She lived, breathed and exuded her faith every day.
In her every day life she was doing what Paul was instructing the church at Ephesus to do.
20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
The parable of the wedding feast is a direct indictment of the rejection of Messiah by the Jews. The king is God, the Son is Jesus, the wedding is the consummation of the ages in the body of believers are finally brought to reconciliation with their Creator. All this is in the process of being worked out in the three and a half years of Christ earthly ministry.
Time and again he would present himself to the Children of Israel, time and again they would reject him. Now individuals, disciples, followers, those healed, those forgiven, they would believer Jesus and his message. But those who thought they knew better, they had the Scripture, they had the Law, they had Tradition; they knew that this couldn’t be the One. Why ? Because the god of this world had blinded them to the prophecies, the types and shadows which predicted the coming of the Messiah. Those who rejected God and his Son would abuse, ridicule or even murder the messengers who were sent to call God’s chosen to him. In light of that, God then turned to others, he sent out the message to the rest of the world, calling all who would come, to join the feast. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.
And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
Now notice that both bad and good were called, then bad would be culled out … “….when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment.” The king (God) has him removed from the feast. Here is another hard saying. After the guest who wasn’t prepared was removed and cast into outer darkness, now comes the saying: many are called but few are chosen. This and similar sayings from the Scripture should give warning, that there is not a universal salvation. Not everyone is going to heaven. Yes I know that is a hard saying. I don’t determine who is going to heaven. If you go back to the middle of the parable you notice that many were called, THEY rejected God’s calling. From the human viewpoint, they made a choice. They told God by their actions that they did not believe or did not care that God was calling them. So the saying “…Many are called but few are chosen..” can take on an entirely different meaning. We do not determine the mind of God.
When we read of Jesus parables we should understand that he is teaching us both by story and by example, what we should do as believers. I ask you to re-read the passage from Ephesians, that is what we are to do, the passage from Matthew is why we are to do it.
As believers we are to live our lives as an example to the dying world. We are to show the way, the truth and the life wherein all are to be saved. The determination is how someone acts upon those warnings and teachings that they have heard, seen or experienced.
Let us pray:
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lmighty and everlasting God, who hatest nothing that Thou hast made, and dost forgive the sins of all those who are penitent; Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness, may obtain of Thee, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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lmighty and everlasting God, who art always more ready to hear than we to pray, and art wont to give more than either we desire or deserve; Pour down upon us the abundance of Thy mercy; forgiving us those things whereof our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things which we are not worthy to ask, but through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, our Lord. Amen.
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God, who art the author of peace and lover of concord, in knowledge of whom standeth our eternal life, whose service is perfect freedom; Defend us Thy humble servants in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in Thy defence, may not fear the power of any adversaries, through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
And Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,
2 The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,
3 And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come.
4 Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage.
5 But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:
6 And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.
7 But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
8 Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy.
9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.
10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.
11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
14 For many are called, but few are chosen.
✟
Rev Bryan Dabney of Saint John’s Sunday Sermon
We are fortunate to have Bryan’s Sunday Sermon. If you want people to come to The Truth, you have to speak the truth, expouse the truth and live the truth. This is really a good piece and I commend it to your careful reading.
Twentieth Sunday after Trinity
In our gospel today, our Lord spoke in a parable wherein he likened the kingdom of heaven to a marriage feast which a king put on for his son (St. Matthew 22:1-14). Part and parcel of this message is our Lord’s invitation for all to come and be received into his kingdom (v.9). The parable noted that the king’s servants did as they were commanded and found a goodly number of folks both bad and good (v.10). Our Lord also spoke of the king seeing a man there who did not have on a wedding garment (v.11). The king then enquired of the man why he came not wearing the proper attire to which he was speechless (v.12). The king then ordered that he be bound hand and foot and cast into outer darkness where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth (v.13). Then our Lord concluded his tale with these words: For many are called, but few are chosen (v.14).
There is not a single parable recorded in the gospel accounts which could be regarded as spurious or for mere entertainment of the listener. Jesus was deadly serious in all his presentations of what he considered to be bad behavior and its attendant consequences. In this parable he was talking about the presentation of the gospel message. For with the preaching of the gospel, the only way to salvation will be made plain to the unregenerate as they would have not learned of God’s saving grace otherwise.
At the front end of this parable, our Lord warned those of his brethren who had rejected him as their Messiah that there would be a terrible price exacted on account of such (vv. 2-7). Historically speaking, we have the destruction of Jerusalem and the carting away of the people from the city into faraway lands as well as the leveling of the Temple itself as a testimony to the veracity of this parable. But our focus today will be on the second portion of this parable.
Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage (vv.8-9). The gospel message is for all regardless of who they are— whether they be sinners of one kind or another— as all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). The servants could not perceive the spiritual makeup of those called as they were not empowered look into their inward parts (v.10). Their job was to call all who would come to the feast not evaluate the secret places of their hearts.
Only after those who were bidden had come in did the king himself enter the room to find one of those bidden without a proper garment (v.11). Why would someone come to a wedding without dressing for the occasion? What disrespect would such a one show to him who had called him? Matthew Henry noted we should not blame the servants of the king as they had done what they were instructed to do. They had called and those that heard came.
Now we get into the fundamentals of the gospel itself. To be called of God is to be called to repent and turn from sinful behaviors. It is a call to accept Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord. It is a call to be accepted into the beloved through a baptism of the Holy Ghost. It is a call to worship and serve God in such a manner that reveals the true state of one’s soul in relation to the Godhead. It means being born again. It means putting off the old man and the lusts of the flesh and the pride of life. It means being renewed in one’s mind. Matthew Henry noted concerning this passage that, “The wedding garment is an inward thing” and that is why the king did not rebuke his servants for letting the man into the feast. The fault was with the man himself for presuming that no one would know his heart. The Lord does indeed have the power to see inside the hearts of men especially those who are false professors of the faith. He knows all too well their deceitfulness and their chicanery.
How often do people come to church with their hearts set on things other than the gospel? How many come to salve their consciences by simply being seen in church? How many believe that the Bible is factual in but a few places, rather than the truth in every place? How many come bearing a mask of righteousness and feigning a humble nature via a false piety? How many come to church with an inclination to disbelieve rather than to believe the fundamentals of the Christian faith? How many come seeking to turn the faithful away from the truth of God’s word written so that they will be turned unto fables? How many readily accept any contradiction to those messages which the Bible proclaims as truth? How many have come into the body of Christ expressing their love for Christ all the while denying God’s word written which affirms him as Saviour and Lord? How many do not recognize that the Jesus Christ is Lord of all aspects of their lives? How many have partaken of the sacraments without faith and without a care as to what they were doing other than ingratiating themselves to those within the body of Christ? How many come precisely because their particular church body has been turned from truth to error?
The ministers of God cannot see the false professors as they are, but our Lord does. And what does he call for regarding such persons? Does he give them a pass? Does he overlook their shortcomings? This parable is not about a cruel and heartless God who harshly judges the offenses of those who did not know better upon hearing the gospel of truth. No, this is about rooting out deception. This is about dealing with liars and fraudsters. This is about God’s righteousness being proclaimed and that his omniscience renders every heart an open book. Our Lord said, For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known (St. Luke 12:2).
And God’s just punishment for this deception is perdition and everlasting torment. As Matthew Henry reminded his readers concerning the errant guest, “He is condemned to be manacled and shackled. Damned sinners are bound hand and foot by an irreversible sentence. They can neither resist nor overrun their punishment… Hypocrites are taken away from the king and the kingdom… the damnation of hypocrites… is utter, extreme darkness… Hypocrites go by the light of the gospel down to utter darkness.” Hell is a place of torment and rage. Grant Jeffrey noted that, “We have all heard people foolishly joke that when they die and go to Hell, they will hold a great party because all their friends will be there as well. These careless jokes reflect the almost total absence of belief in the reality and horror of an eternity in Hell… Consider for a moment the companions who will share Hell with those who stubbornly resist God’s mercy to the very end… Hell will be filled forever with untold billions of angry sinners who will still possess bodies that can feel pain, but can never die. In their pain and rage against God’s justice, these angry sinners will curse God and each other…” And D. James Kennedy offered the following concerning Hell: “When you have been in hell a hundred billion trillion eons of centuries, you will not have one less second to be there… You will be in utter darkness, fleeing this way and that…” How horrid! And that is reality of being separated from God, but such a future is entirely avoidable.
Beloved in Christ, be straight and truthful with God in your devotions and confessions. If you truly believe and accept Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Lord then you have nothing to fear of perdition. A wonderful new world awaits you wherein righteousness dwells. There will be such joys in heaven which our earthly minds cannot fathom. The Bible tells us that eye hath not seen nor ear heard what the Lord has in store for those that love him and keep his commandments (Isaiah 64:4 and I Corinthians 2:9). If you are truly in Christ Jesus then you already have a proper wedding garment! God can see it on you! But while others may not see it, they will necessarily see your fruits along with your witness. Therefore be obedient to the will of our Lord and Saviour. Pray in the Spirit. Uphold righteousness in your daily life and work. Proclaim God’s graciousness to those around you as the Spirit gives you leave to do. Call upon all to come to the feast, but warn them also to come properly attired so that they will be accepted into the beloved as faithful members of Christ’s body. The gospel message is timeless and is in vogue regardless of a person’s age or condition, but it is limited to the living. Once death has overtaken a person, the offer to come to God in Christ will have expired. Don’t be caught unawares for truly many are called, but few are chosen.
Let us pray,
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ather, assist us with thy most holy Spirit to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death; that they too might turn from their sins and trespasses and become new creatures in Christ; for this we ask in his most holy name. Amen.
Have a blessed week, Bryan+
After Church Hospitality
We would like some pictures of your after service gatherings. Come on! Help out!
People in our Prayers – http://faithfulcenturionprayerteam.blogspot.com/
Why? Prayer is an extremely important activity.
It is not that God knows not our needs, for He surely does. Yet, Jesus commanded us to ask God for those same needs. In addition to the obvious of asking God for help, offering thanksgiving and the like, prayer helps us focus our thoughts on how we might do God’s work.
The Prayer Team of the Anglican Orthodox Church was established to help our members and fellow Christians pray for those in need and to give thanks as well for the blessings we have been granted.
Who can be on the list? Do I have to be a member of the Anglican Orthodox Church to be prayed for?
No! The only qualification to be on the list is that you want our prayer team to pray for you. We are Christians and are happy to pray for you, no matter who you are. If you want help from God, you are our kind of people.
What is the commitment from the prayer team?
Each member of the team will pray for the desired outcome at last once per day.
How do I get myself or someone else on the prayer list?
You can email one of the prayer team leaders: Jack – jack@faithfulcenturion.org or Dru – dru@ faithfulcenturion.org, or call the office at (619) 659-3608 or fill out a prayer card at church.
What should I ask for?
Depends on what you want. Some people merely want God to be asked to heal their ills and be mentioned by their first name, others want a specific outcome and / or have more of their personal information known to the team. Ask for what you want. It is your desire and need for prayer the team is attempting to meet. For typical examples, see the list below.
Updating the Team
If you are on our prayer list, or if you have submitted a person that you have asked us to pray for, please update one of the team members or Hap in person, by telephone or email. It helps to be able to pray specifically for these individuals including their specific needs; plus if they get better, it is nice to give thanks!
Please note that on the yellow (maybe green or orange if you get an old one) cards at church, you can ask that those to be prayed for have their names disseminated to the prayer team. Those names will be said in church and appear here. Or, you can ask that their names and purpose be kept confidential, then only Hap will know to pray for them.
Prayer List Notice – If you have someone on the prayer list and their needs have changed, please let us know. We’d like to update our prayers to reflect the need and most important to give thanks!
Travel
Jerry Ogles is traveling to visit the Anglican Orthodox Churches in Serbia and Macedonia. Right now, he is in Belgrade and meeting with AOC ministers there; pray that those who are to be baptized, confirmed and ordained will be able to do God’s Will. Please pray for effective and safe travels for our Presiding Bishop as he makes his way into a difficult area under difficult conditions.
Birthday
Jack Arnold celebrated his 22nd birthday on 26 October 2014.
Margie Arnold Haynes celebrated her 94th birthday on 25 October 2014.
Mrs. Kay, that is Kay Denton, celebrated her 70th birthday on 2 October 2014.
Move
The Thomas Family is now in Okinawa for a second short tour. Please pray for this new assignment to go well for Kurt and for Mary and the kids to make new friends. In particular pray that Kristyna and Mitchell will develop good friends and schoolmates there so as to further their development as both Christians and citizens. Give thanks the safe move and ask for continued good developments.
Departed
Bill Harrington passed away the afternoon of 31 October 2014, quite unexpectedly. Please join his family in giving thanks for Bill’s time here on earth. Please pray for his family who of necessity remain behind, that they might put their sorrow at the temporary separation on God’s back, while they look forward, not back. Pray in particular for his mother who has now lost three of her six children and for his brother Michael who will have to help in straightening things out.
Nafees, sister of Shamim Gray, passed away the morning of 16 October 2014, as the result of heart problems. Please give thanks for her time here on earth and pray for her family members who of necessity remain behind, in particular her mother and sister Shamim.
Jeffrey, Jennifer’s Father, passed away from complications of diabetes and kidney failure on 25 September 2014. Please give thanks for Jeffrey’s time here on earth and pray for trust in the Lord, comfort and peace of mind for Jennifer and her family who of necessity remain behind.
Dennis Ogles, Jr. Uncle, Friend and Compatriot of Bishop Jerry Ogles, passed away 29 August 2014. The Ogles family is very close and wonderful followers of our Lord. Please join them in giving thanks for Dennis’ time here on earth and family and friends he left behind. You are known for what you do and his family tells the real story of his life. Please pray for his family who of necessity remain behind, that they might put their sorrow at the temporary separation on God’s back, while they look forward, not back.
Anniversary of Departure
Ken Jennings, Grasshopper, left for home on 2 November 2013. Please give thanks for his time here on earth and for pray comfort to his wife Terri and children Trevor, Tawnya and Tessa.
Nearing the end of their time here on earth
Maggie is nearing the end of her time here on earth. Please pray for Maggie and her husband Dub as she prepares to go home to be with her family who have gone before her. Pray for the faith of her family to build and the transition to be good.
Alan is a victim of metastasized colon cancer already destroying his liver. His youngest sister has put aside her hard-earned career to care for her brother in these days on earth. Please pray for him as he prepares to go home to be with his family who have gone before him. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Alan and his family who will of necessity remain behind.
Saundra is in ICU with congestive heart failure after a heart operation. She is aged and frail. Saundra is near the end of her time here on earth. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Saundra and her family who will of necessity remain behind. Pray for the love of God to stay foremost in their hearts.
Polly is in hospice care with dementia and spinal stenosis. Please pray for her as she prepares to go home to be with her family who have gone before her. Pray for the faith of her family to build and the transition to be good.
Homebound or Infirm
Mary is an elderly woman who has fallen four times in the last couple of days. Please pray the doctors find a reason for her falling and that God will stabilize, comfort and heal her.
Lily is the caregiver of her elderly husband Harold; she fell down the stairs and has a break that will take six weeks before she can be on her feet again. Please pray for rapid healing for Lily and for a plan to form that will make things tolerable for both of them.
Martha and Irene both have Alzheimer’s Disease. Pray that their hearts will stay close to Jesus.
Walter has many health issues and is growing weaker and weaker. Pray Walter will learn to be able to swallow correctly.
Joan has had serious medical problems that have kept her confined. On 26 September 2013, she took a fall. Please pray that in the weeks ahead her health will remain stable.
Lou has aspiration pneumonia. Please pray for the infection to be knocked down and for her continued recovery.
Norma, Sara’s mother is in a state of deteriorating health, both physically and mentally, with both dementia and Alzheimer’s. She is slowly drifting away, though she still recognizes Sara and prayer gives her a sense of peace. Please pray for both Sara and her mother to put their cares and worries on God’s shoulders so they can deal with the many problems involved.
In need of a miracle or understanding of God’s Plan
Cindy has been diagnosed with an aggressive malignant brain tumor. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Cindy’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Cindy and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.
Sarah, wife of Rev Geordie (AOC – UK), has been treating for ovarian cancer. She has lost her son, as well as a long time furry family member; she is home from hospital having had fluid drained from her lungs. God will give us all the strength we need if we but let Him. Having said that, Sarah is under more stress than can be imagined. Pray that Sarah and Geordie be guided to the new kitten God has chosen for them. Please pray for a miraculous remission; and that Sarah might put all her sadness, fear, worry and terror on God’s back so that her remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Sarah, Geordie and their family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Lloyds’ mother is in the hospital because of heart failure. Please pray for a miraculous remission of the heart failure; that his mother’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Lloyd and his mother and their family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Leon McKay suffered a stroke a few weeks back that has left him unable to speak and while undergoing evaluation the doctors also found he has a very aggressive cancer. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Leon’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Leon and his family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Rev. Thomas Brooks is not improving and being kept alive by artificial machines. Please pray for a miraculous recovery and if that not be God’s Will, a rapid passing to home. Help Thomas’ family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry
Ronnie has kidney cancer that has spread and the surgeons are very concerned. Please pray the medical team to formulate a successful treatment plan and for a miraculous remission; that Ronnie’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Ronnie and family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Levi was cancer free for 4 years and just discovered he has kidney cancer. Levi has a great deal of faith and said whether he is healed or God takes him home he will be fine. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Levi and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders. In particular, please pray for pain relief; Levi is 22 years old.
Ray Daley is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion and served his country during the Korean War era. Ray is taking chemotherapy treatments for cancer. Meanwhile his son Trevor is in the hospital in a coma and seems to have lost the will to live.
Pat has been under treatment for colon cancer for sometime. He has had major complications the last few days and your prayers will be appreciated by family and friends.
Dorothy had pneumonia, on checking her lungs they found tumors which permeated the lung area. Further investigation found a primary site in the colon, with the lung being secondary. It would appear there is no viable treatment at this time. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that her remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Dorothy and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Scott, one of our Lord’s ministers who collapsed a week ago and is in the ICU of a Medical Center since he had a pulmonary embolism, with a concurrent infection of several bacterial agents. He has stopped breathing on several occasions, and may have undergone brain damage. He currently is on DNR. Please pray for recovery so that he will continue to do his Lord’s calling.
Becky has fourth stage metastasized lung cancer and is not doing well with chemotherapy treatments. Please pray for Becky and her husband as they are together during this difficult time in their lives.
Jane has fourth stage cancer and is not doing well. Please pray for Jane and her family as they are together during this difficult time in their lives.
Larry Howes suffered a fairly severe stroke. 4 December 2012, doctors replaced a valve in a shunt that had been put in about two weeks before, and Larry responded very well. He was able to go home.
Pray also for confidence in our Lord for Larry and his family. Larry needs a miracle, pray for one. Please.
Colleen has been battling pancreatic cancer over the last year and it has now spread to one of her lungs. Please keep her and her family in your prayers.
Christine has cancer of the colon, which spread to her liver; she is receiving chemotherapy and is having difficulty eating. Please pray for the medical team treating her to pay attention and do their very best; pray also for confidence in our Lord for Christine and her family.
Todd and Kenny have both been fighting osteocarcinoma for over five years and have been told their time here on earth is nearing its end, absent a miracle from God. Both are ready to go home and leave the pain, but would like to stay. Please pray for them and their families.
Surgery
Albert had a pacemaker installed recently. He will require surgery soon for a leaking heart valve and has just been told he has esophageal cancer. Pray he will turn to God and come to know Him on a more personal basis as the days go by.
Jane underwent heart valve repair surgery on 3 July 2014. Please pray for full recovery. Pray also Jane and her family to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Mario has early-diagnosed prostate cancer and had surgery. Pray for complete remission and that Mario and his family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Eddie has upcoming bladder surgery. Please pray for the surgical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Eddie and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Testing and Treatment
Bryson was born with a low weight and his blood sugar is running low and they are having trouble getting him to eat. His mother Elizabeth is very concerned. Please pray that those treating Bryson will pay attention and do their very best for him. Pray also that Elizabeth will let the Lord carry her worry.
Maverick, a newborn little boy, has congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This is an inherited genetic defect that limits production of one of the many enzymes the adrenal glands use to make cortisol.
Most of the problems caused by classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia are related to a lack of cortisol, which plays an important role in regulating your blood pressure, maintaining blood sugar and energy levels, and protecting your body against stress.
This condition has no cure, but can be managed. Prayers are requested for Maverick, and his parents Kellie and Robert, as they adjust their lives to deal with Maverick’s condition.
Carol Anne needs God’s comfort and healthy test results as she is anxiously undergoing tests related to previous hysterectomy and experiencing symptoms in the surrounding area.
Garth Neel is undergoing chemotherapy for lymphomacancer. He had to postpone last week’s chemotherapy due to low white blood cell count. Please pray his numbers will get in line so that the treatment can continue. Pray for medical team contemplating and evaluating the treatment that they might be guided to the correct choice and do their very best. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Garth and his family.
Garth is the AOC Bishop of Canada with oversight of South America and a really both good and nice fellow.
From Garth – The results of a recent CAT scan indicate the tumour in my abdomen has been reduced from its original 12 by 9 cms to 8.5 by 7 cms … The doctor’s office calls this “significant” … and adds the tumour is “stable” … ie not trying to grow back. I continue with my 4th chemo therapy treatment on Tuesday, and am confident, by the grace of God and through the prayers of all, the tumour will continue to recede and finally be eradicated. + Garth (1 November 2014)
Jennifer has some lumps on the right side of her neck; they have grown and multiplied. In the last few months she has been having problems swallowing. Jennifer has an appointment with specialist in several weeks to try and discover what it is. She is having a great deal of anxiety as she waits for her Doctors appointment and will appreciate your prayer for anxiety and health.
Rick has heart problems. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Rick and his wife Wanda to keep their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Clay has melanoma. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Rick and his wife Pam to keep their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Tom is battling cancer. 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 Tom to keep his trust in the Lord and let Him carry his worry.
Atina has been diagnosed with skin cancer. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Atina to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry.
Evelyn has been diagnosed with bone cancer. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Evelyn to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry.
Stacy has Multiple Sclerosis and was hospitalized for what turned out to be food poisoning. Pray for trust in God for Stacy and Chris as they deal with Stacy’s illness.
Dick Gray had developed a Merkle Cell carcinoma just under his sternum carcinoma which is considered a stage four carcinoma since it has ‘metastasized’. He traveled to Seattle, Washington where he was examined and considered for a new type of treatment. That treatment will not begin for at least three months, so they referred him to the Rutgers University Cancer Institute, New Brunswick, New Jersey. They have accepted him into the evaluation process, which will begin on Monday 11 August 2014. Rutgers started with monkeys and had good results, so now they are working with humans, Dick is hopeful as he has oft been referred to as an “Old Monkey.” Please pray for peace of mind and safe travel for Dick and his lovely wife Jennifer as they travel to New Jersey this weekend. Pray for those contemplating the treatment that they might be guided to the correct choice and do their very best. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Dick and his wife Jennifer. Dick is the Treasurer and a Vestryman at Saint Paul’s AOC in Missouri.
Janet Jessup had a stroke on 3 July 2014. She has made some progress and is now out of the stroke unit and in the General Surgery and Care Unit. Please pray for those treating her to find the appropriate treatment and for trust in God and peace of mind for Name and her family, in particular her husband of 43 years, Rev Roger Jessup, minister of Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church.
Dennis had a stroke on 30 May 2014. Pray for his wife and family during this time of recovery Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Dennis and his family, most particularly his wife; as well as for God’s guidance for the neurologists and other medical people treating him they might find the best course of treatment and allow Dennis to heal completely.
Liz Strauch had a pineal cyst, which in the end responded well to a surgical draining last year. Since November 2013, similar symptoms have returned. A CT Scan turned up what is thought to be either a new cyst or an enlarged pineal gland. More testing, including an EEG is in the works. She can no longer work. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Liz and her family, in particular her husband Ken and sons Caleb and Nathan; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Liz to heal completely.
Steve fell from a roof Saturday, 5 April 2014. His injuries were multiple, extensive, severe, and life threatening. He is slowly making improvements. He still has a long road to travel and is still in great need of prayers. Yours are very much appreciated. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Steve 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 Steve to heal completely.
Faye is in the hospital because she is weak has been receiving blood transfusions. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Faye and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Faye to heal completely.
Tom has heart and kidney problems. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Tom and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Tom to heal completely.
Harold has had a severe stroke. He is now home, but his family is looking for a rehabilitation facility to help him recuperate. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Harold and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for him that they might find the best treatment facility to allow Harold to heal completely.
Joe has had a preliminary ALS diagnosis. Pray the final diagnosis will something that will allow him to continue taking care of his devoted young family. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Joe and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mark hadswelling and fluid buildup in his lungs. It appears things may be getting under control. He needs to use a Bi-Pap mask to breathe until his lungs clear and he hates it. Pray that he will be able to adapt so his lungs can clear. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mark, as well as for his family, and 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.
Marianne is hospitalized with a perforated colon. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Marianne, 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.
Erica has a non-malignant Brain Tumor which cannot be surgically removed due to the size and location. They are going to attempt chemotherapy. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Erica, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Brenda is in the hospital because of bleeding on her brain. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Brenda, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mackenzie is a young girl with leukemia. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mackenzie, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mack has had diabetes most of his adult life. Circulation in his legs is very bad and doctors are considering amputation. Please pray his medication will help and he will not face amputation. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mack and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Michael has been diagnosed with lung cancer recently after making it through gastro intestinal cancer last year. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Michael and his wife Gayle; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Ken Strauch has been tired and is anemic, he had a colonoscopy which found a pair of polyps which were removed and are being tested. Just for good measure they found he has a hiatal hernia with ulcers, basically part of his stomach is pushed up into his esophagus and is bleeding from there. Sounds like there may be surgery involved. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Ken and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Adriano is in the hospital due to high sugar and high blood pressure. He is very weak and will appreciate your prayers.
Heather recently found out she has cancer. Please pray for peace of mind for her and for the medical team treating her will be guided to the right solution.
Jim has had an aneurism and blood clots. Pray that healing will come.
Georgia has liver and pancreatic cancer. The doctors are evaluating whether to do surgery and how to tackle the disease. Georgia is a faithful Christian and appreciates your prayers. Pray for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find out the source of the problem and best course of treatment. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Georgia and her family.
Lana’s doctor found something on her lymph nodes and ovaries. Pray for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find out the source of the problem and best course of treatment. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Lana and her family.
Healing
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.
Casey has strep throat along with her mother Deanna and Grandmother Virginia. Please pray that the other members of the family may stay healthy while those with strep throat recover quickly and rapidly.
Meg recently found out she had heart problems causing low blood oxygen levels, loss of focus resulting in an emergency room crisis. As a result of the symptoms she made errors on the job that caused her to lose her job. She is grateful for the excellent medical care she has received and optimistic, feeling with God’s intervention in her life her health may be reversed and a new job will become available.
Donald is in the hospital and had his leg amputated on 14 April 2014. Pray he will adjust and healing will begin.
Dallmus has lost 40 to 50 percent of his sight. Pray he will learn to cope with the situation and that he will trust in God to heal as He will.
Lucius Dabney (father of Rev Bryan Dabney) is now at home recovering from an infection. Please pray for a complete healing of the infection and return to health.
David has many concussions and unable to go to school, read books, watch TV and has headaches and migraines. He has trouble sleeping and his family will appreciate your prayers for this 10 year old young man.
Barbara Apple fell the week of 11 January 2014, in her home, breaking her right humerus (the large upper arm bone) in a spiral fracture, which cannot be set. Movement is very painful and due to a total lack of energy, she is more or less bedridden. Healing does not seem to be going well at this point. Pray for inspiration for those caring for her that they might find the appropriate treatment. Please pray for Barbara to put her trust in the Lord, look to Him for strength and for her to gain energy so she does not lose the mobility she has; pray for a full and rapid recovery. Please pray also for her husband Bob who is taking care of her that he might be comforted and strengthened in this time of stress.
Gladys has breast cancer and has had a lumpectomy. She needs to take a year off of her work to have chemo treatments.
Alwin Jack has had a stroke and recently has had a relapse. Please pray for those who treat Alwin that they might chose the best possible treatment and pray for peace of mind for Alwin during the recovery phase.
Carolyn has Multiple Sclerosis with complications. Pray Carolyn and her children will be close to our Lord Jesus Christ as they and family members help to ease the problems.
Jeong was in an auto accident and sustained a serious back injury. Please pray for a full and rapid recovery.
Dale was hospitalized Sunday 25 August 2013, after a heart attack. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating him and for peace of mind for Dale and his family.
Gil Garcia developed a bed sore which precludes sitting and is now confined to his bed. Gil has very smooth and delicate skin, please pray for a rapid healing of the sore so he can get out of bed and move around in his chair. Gil spent almost a year in the hospital the last time this happened. His faith and his attitude are almost beyond belief, he is an example to us all. But, we pray this time he will heal quickly. Pray also for his lovely wife Mary who takes care of him. Pray for both of them also for strength to deal with the loss of their son Bernie.
Bill had malignant growth removed from a lip last month and seems to be experiencing a re-growth of the cancer. He asks your prayer for the medical team treating him and for peace of mind for himself.
Hank has osteoporosis, which has caused him a great deal of pain and inconvenience in the past few years. Pray for his healing and that his medical bills will be met.
Evelyn is an elderly woman who has had problems with her eyes and is now blind. It appears some sight will return shortly, pray for that to happen!
Joanne has begun kidney dialysis as a result of kidney failure due to extensive chemotherapy. Additionally she cares for an adopted drug addicted baby who is now nine years old. Please pray for her to keep her faith, to let the Lord carry her worry and concern and to give her strength. Pray also for those treating her that they might pay attention and do their best.
Mr. N. Anand is in the hospital and is seriously ill. He is being encouraged to pray for repentance of his sins and to depend upon our dependable God for a cure and recovery of his health. Pray that he will be a strong witness for Christ.
Jacob has been going through some dental procedures and has some pain and aggravation with the numbness. Please pray for comfort and strength for him, as well as for guidance for the medical team treating him that they might pay attention and do their best.
Jean fell and broke her ankle in three places. She will be in the hospital for rehabilitation for the next 6 weeks. Please pray for comfort and strength for her, as well as for guidance for the medical team treating her that they might pay attention and do their best.
Bud and his wife for their continued welfare and enthusiasm. Bud has been advised of an aneurism in his heart of a size not mandating immediate surgery. This comes at a time when he has sole care of his wife who recently broke two vertebrae and thereafter sustained pneumonia.
Virginia has Sinus and Allergy problems giving her severe problems. Pray that the Doctor will discover why it continues and find a cure.
Steve Thornell had a brain aneurysm, which was found before it burst. He is home from the hospital and working hard on recovery. He lacks energy from seven days in the hospital. His doctor told him he has to make serious life changes. One of the two main arteries in the back of the head is now completely closed. He must take blood thinners, he has thick blood and recent chemotherapy made it worse. Steve has always operated at 110 percent, he needs help to slow down. Please pray for trust in the Lord and a full and rapid recovery. Pray for peace of mind for Steve and his family.
Arlen is receiving treatment for lung cancer and recently experienced a ruptured colon during treatment. She is alone in Oregon but does have a friend who has traveled a great distance to be at her side. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Arlen.
Oscar discovered some time ago he had blood clots in his leg and lung. He has been treated for them and has not been cured. He now will be facing surgery. Please keep him in your prayers.
Angela had an ischemic stroke (clot).Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Angela. Please pray also that she and her family might put their worries on our Lord’s back so she can work hard towards recovery.
Nora had a stroke mid February 2013. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Nora. Please pray also that she and her family might put their worries on our Lord’s back so she can work hard towards recovery.
Linda has been hospitalized for several days with a gastrointestinal problem. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Linda.
Dester is suffering from unknown skin and diseases. Please guide the medical team treating him to find out what the problem is and cure it. Pray also for Dester to trust in the Lord.
Lee has Arterial Fibrillation; the medical people are not sure how to help her. Please pray for guidance for the team treating her and for Lee and her family to make the right decisions regarding treatment..
Nell recently adopted two children and has just been diagnosed with multiple myeloma.
Mary Lou has been suffering with seizures. She was in the hospital with a 24 hour monitor and is being sent home from the hospital with two medications and orders to return in 2 months for another MRI to review whatever is going on in her brain. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating her, as well as peace of mind and trust in God for her and her family.
Kathleen has spent the last two weeks in the hospital. She has been diagnosed with colitis, shingles and possibly colon cancer. Pray she will be comfortable and begin to heal.
Rachel has Mitochondrial Myopathy. This is a hereditary disease of the muscles and they do not have a cure for it. Part of her pain is her family does not believe she is indeed ill, as she appears to be just fine. Please pray her family will learn the truth and be supportive of her; pray also the medical people treating her will find the right measures to minimize the disease. Most particularly pray for Rachel’s trust in God.
Nicolas is in the hospital with serious symptoms of a heart disorder. Please pray for peace of mind for him and guidance for the medical team looking for the cause and cure.
Mrs. Baek an elderly women fell and injured her spine. Doctors cannot repair the spinal injury due to her age. She fell again the morning of 12 December 2012, breaking her collar bone which is also untreatable. Mrs. Baek is in severe pain and will appreciate your prayers.
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.
Barbara had an accident while cooking and the pressure cooker blew up in her face, causing second and third degree burns over her face and upper body. Because of this she has incurred kidney problems and may need a transplant.
George had foot surgery. Please give thanks for the surgery and pray for a full and rapid recovery.
Nellie is in the emergency room of a hospital in a great deal of pain. Please pray for peace of mind for her and guidance for the medical team looking for the cause and cure.
Lauralee Meade underwent a lumpectomy on Friday after Thanksgiving. A further anomaly has been discovered and she had additional preventative radiation treatment. Please pray for a complete remission of the cancer. Pray also Lauralee will maintain her great attitude and trust in God.
Bill, Sara’s husband, had a third abdominal surgery on 22 November 2011, to remove a tumor. Bill is doing better keeping the doctor’s instructions, for which we are all grateful, including taking chemotherapy once a day for one more year. He has decreased the consumption of alcohol and eating at least mostly properly. Please pray for help for him to continue do all this. Please pray also that Bill might turn his heart outward to help those around him, as well as live a long and healthy life to the honor and glory of God. Pray also for peace of mind for Bill and his wife Sara.
Kay Denton (Mrs. Kay) has had a chest infection, perhaps viral, but seems to be getting better. Please pray for continued peace of mind for Mrs. Kay and her family. Give thanks for her trust in the Lord and her positive attitude.
Matt Alcantara, age 16, came back with ZERO SCANS again in August 2014! Matt has Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), a very rare and often lethal form of cancer with limited treatment options. This is a disease that is about 90 percent fatal in a couple of years. He has no hip joint on one side, but he walks and swims! Courage? Guts? You bet! Please also give thanks for the great faith of Matt and his entire family. Their faith and trust is a wonderful example for each and every one of us. But, now is not the time to stop praying. Actually, it never is the time to stop praying!
Judith Clingwall, is afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She is currently in Laurel Place, an extended care facility in Surrey, British Columbia. Judith’s condition has worsened recently. Please pray for her to take an active part in her own life, for her strength, peace of mind, trust in God and remission of the disease so she might return home to her family. Pray also for strength for her husband Martin as he deals with all the problems and stress of Judith’s situation.
Vince (age 15), reoccurrence of Osteosarcoma, recent testing found a nickel sized tumor in his lungs. The doctors are consulting with a specialist in Houston. Please pray for guidance for the medical team and for peace of mind for Vince and his family.
Healing and Patience
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
Jenniffer had surgery for breast cancer on 15 October 2014, which seemingly went well; please give thanks for that. She is in considerable pain and has an apparently minor infection. Please pray for the pain and infection to both subside. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and for a good outcome. Pray for help for Jenniffer to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry and concern as she recovers. Please pray also for strength and courage for her family as they try their best to help her.
Earl had successful surgery to remove a cancer on his nose. They had to go deeper than they originally thought, so he will need plastic surgery to rebuild the nose, but all the cancer was removed! Please join Earl and his family in giving thanks for the great result!
Jim had infection complications from diabetes in his foot. The infection appears to be under control and he has been released from the hospital. Please join in giving thanks for the quick and good result and pray for complete healing.
DiAnne Thornton had back surgery 23 September 2014, with apparently good result. Please give thanks for the good result and pray the L5 decompression will allow her walking abilities and balance to be restored.
Alice had a mastectomy on 17 September 2014, that apparently went very well with a good result. Please give thanks for the good outcome and pray for full healing and complete remission.
Mary had successful hip replacement on 10 September 2014. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and ask for God’s help in her recovery.
Kathy had what seems to be very successful surgery on Wednesday, 3 September 2014, for cancer that returned somewhat unexpectedly. Please give thanks for the good results of the surgery and pray that the cancer will be held at bay by this action. Pray also for Kathy and her family to let God carry their worry, concern and terror so that Kathy can recover fully and quickly, so as to gain the best result. Help their entire family to keep their full trust in God.
Peggy had very successful knee replacement surgery 26 August 2104. She is going home on 29 August 2014 with no pain! Please give thanks for a great result.
Nathan had successful surgery on 4 August 2014, to remove a tumor near his heart; he is home from the hospital. They think they got it all but he will continue on chemotherapy for a little while. Nathan and his family thank you for your prayers.
John Evetts had successful extensive heart surgery; he is still in the hospital and recovering. He is in good spirits. John and his family thank God for the answer to many prayers on his behalf. John is a minister in the Anglican Episcopal Church which as a relationship with the AOC. We look forward to his return to his ministerial duties at St. George’s Anglican Church in Ventura in the near future.
John Evetts entered the ministry after a lifetime of work in industry and business as well as service in the Armed Forces in Vietnam. Like the Apostles, he came to the ministry from the secular world of work. Rev. Evetts is married and has two daughters and two grandchildren.
We thank the Rev. Evetts for his service to our country and his continuing service to God and His people.
Mary Thornell had surgery on 30 October 2013, at the Riverside Community Hospital to remove a huge mass along with about ½ her colon and part of her lower bowel. Mary finished chemotherapy 17 June 2014. Tests the week of 2 June 2014 showed totally clear scans. For now, treatment is done after the last chemotherapy session. Please give thanks for the great result and also for the strength, guidance and peace of mind our Lord gave Mary and her husband Jim, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, she underwent treatment. Please pray she will stay free of the cancer in the future.
Eli a two month baby is back home after going to the ER the night of 28 May 2014, not able to breathe. Please give thanks for her recovery and pray for strength, courage and understanding for Eli’s family; as well as for God’s guidance for the neurologists and other medical people treating Eli they might find the best course of treatment and allow Eli to heal completely, as well as for strength and understanding for the parents.
Jim has been hospitalized and had several operations for cancer the last few years. The physicians discovered a number of spots; but his exam was better than expected-prayer changes things and he thanks you for your prayers. Please continue him in prayer for he will have another scan in April.
Al had an abscess found on his liver for which he was hospitalized, it turned out to be benign and will not require surgery, he has been released from the hospital. Please give thanks for this good result and pray for continued healing.
Elma is suffering from cancer. She was taken home from the hospital on the advice of her Doctor. We were asked to pray that Elma’s remaining time here on earth might be good and that Elma and family might put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry. Since then, Elma’s Bishop told us a great Miracle of the Lord is working over Elma. Doctors sent her home to die, but now she seems to be doing all right. On behalf of her, thank you for all of your prayers. Please continue praying for her complete healing.
Dennis has heart problems; now the medical people treating him discovered a large mass on his liver which turned out to be a cyst! Please give thanks for this great development and pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Dennis and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that the contemplated surgery might go well.
Dwight had major oral surgery, for which he gives thanks. He is recovering slowly and asks your prayers to speed the process.
Mike is a veteran who has served his country when she called. Please pray he will open his heart to God so He can make Mike’s crooked road straight and pull him towards the summit rather than to the pit.
Dick’s left arm was amputated after treating for Merkel Cell carcinoma over a year ago. He is now believed to be cancer free and is waiting to be fitted with an artificial arm. Please join Dick and his family in giving thanks to Our Lord Jesus Christ for his recovery as well as for their trust in God.
Bob Smouse had shoulder surgery on 28 November 2012. While the surgery went well, he is still in pain and would also appreciate prayers for continued healing and the pain to subside. He promises to work very hard on recovery therapy.
Carol Stone, the sweet wife of Mike Stone, recovered far better than expected from a severe brain bleed, but fell recently and broke her hip. She still requires 24 hour care, which Mike provides with little help.
Business
Mark’s business is in difficulty. He works in a shrinking field, of which he is one of the country’s true masters, but there is little work available. He asks that you pray that he can find a way to survive in his industry, which he loves and needs his talents. Pray he can find new sources of business and new ways of doing things, perhaps someone to partner with to better use his talents. Pray also for those who work for and with him that they might do their best to help.
Financial Guidance and Employment
Caleb David has finished law school and will appreciate your prayers as he seeks employment as an attorney.
Charlie is coming along in his need of both spiritual and financial. Please pray God will continue to fill his heart with the Holy Ghost for guidance. In addition, Charlie needs God’s guidance as to how to handle his life from this point forward. After many years in the aerospace industry, he is looking for a place to employ his talents to the mutual benefit of a company. He asks that you pray for God to guide him.
Carmine is looking for employment. Pray God will guide her and she will accept his guidance; something she has not always done, so your prayers will be especially appreciated.
Doug recently became unemployed from his job of 18 years. He has been applying for jobs, but unable to get one at this time. His wife is working; this is not enough for the family. Please pray he will find employment with a firm that will be able to use his considerable skill and hard work to benefit both the firm and the family.
Catherine and Lewis are at a low ebb due to a struggle for employment. Your fervent prayers will be appreciated.
Lori is considering a potential change in her employment. Please pray for God’s guidance in considering all aspect of her potential work.
Sara is concerned about the future with her company. She would appreciate prayers for her continued employment and that her firm might find more and better ways to use her considerable skills.
Financial Guidance and Healing
Clark is in need of salvation; for God’s Will to be done in his life. Pray his family will be blessed with the financial miracles that come from doing His Will.
Timothy and Sharon had their home foreclosed the morning of 15 April 2014. They are experiencing spiritual, emotional and financial crisis at the current time. Please pray for God’s guidance as to how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves and more importantly have them draw closer to God and each other.
Linda, Rick, Christian and Sawyer are a family experiencing spiritual, emotional and financial crisis at the current time. Please pray for God’s guidance as to how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves and more importantly have them draw closer to God and each other.
David and Lorna are having financial problems. They are trying to find a smaller home which may be more affordable. Lorna has had an ongoing battle with brain cancer, her trips back and forth to the hospital have drained their finances to the point they sometimes struggle to have enough food in the house. Pleaser pray for Lorna’s healing and guidance on how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves.
Guidance
Flora is in remission with cancer, but has high blood pressure and fatigue. Flora’s Mother recently died and this has caused added stress. Please pray that she will be able to let God carry her worry and sorrow so she can do the things she needs to do.
Elizabeth and Gunner need your prayers for their general well being. Pray that they might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide their lives. Pray they might open their hearts not only to the Lord, but to each other to become one in Him and happiness.
Eric and Betty need your prayers for their general well being. Pray that they might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide their lives. Pray they might open their hearts not only to the Lord, but to each other to become one in Him and happiness.
Eli has lost his way both spiritually and mentally, please pray for him and his parents Ed and Barb, who are having great struggles seeing their son, go through these afflictions having brought up in a Christian home. Please pray his parents can find a way to help Eli.
Marie has suffered the loss of her husband, her job and her pet all in a short period of time. Please pray for peace of mind for Marie, as well as for trust in the Lord for her and those around her that she might adjust to the changes in her life and move forward to the honor and glory of our Lord with His Help. (140607)
Mitten has a Christian talking to him about Christ. Mitten does not believe and does not seem to care. Please pray Mitten will see the light.
Kristen, Rickey and their two children ask you to pray for grace, wisdom and understanding as they attempt to cope with infidelity, separation and possibly divorce as a result of backsliding from the Lord into the World.
Aaron has a problem seeing is where his life should be leading him. Please pray that he can listen to his father Paul and those around him who want him to work hard and obtain a real education now rather than just coast towards oblivion.
Danielle has accepted Christ as her Saviour. Pray she will read the Bible and meditate on His Word so she can grow in him.
Helene and her family ask your prayers for them as they deal with the loss of Alan, husband and father.
Stephanie seems to be very deeply into post partum depression after her baby was born prematurely. Please pray for her Mother in Law who is going a great distance to help Stephanie and her new Grandson. Pray that Stephanie will be able to direct her attention outward, rather than inward.
William is an elderly man living with his Son and Daughter in-law. William is causing trouble in the family because of his demanding ways and continually using bad language. The family is at wit’s end to know how to handle him and will appreciate your guidance and prayers.
Caitlin is in the grip of the Prince of Darkness; she thinks there is escape from reality in drugs. The saddest part is that reality is not as she sees it. Her family is despairing as they can do nothing to help her and ask that you pray for the Holy Ghost to enter into heart and show her the need for change before it is too late.
Nathaniel is in spiritual turmoil. His family and friends will appreciate it if you will keep him in your prayers for him to find the root of his trouble and accept God’s help to heal his heart.
Sam and her two children that have been living in a shelter and are to lose their place there. Please pray a place will be found they can stay in and recover.
Please pray Darlene will surrender her life to Christ.
Norrie is facing daily exams in the weeks ahead. Pray for calmness and concentration and to do the best possible.
Jonathan is addicted to drugs. He is now in jail awaiting trial. His parents and friends will appreciate it if you will keep him in your prayers for him to find the root of his trouble and accept God’s help to heal addiction.
Beth is suffering from ungodly treatment in her marriage. Please pray God will guide her in her behavior, actions and thoughts that she might be able to lead her husband to God so her marriage might prosper to the benefit of them.
Brandon a young man from a Christian family who married a year ago and almost immediately became estranged from him family. As a result he has had a serious problem with keeping the civil law. Please pray for Brandon that he will return to the Lord and the many problems will be eventually settled. Pray the hurt he has caused so many will be helped with our Lord’s care and love.
Dennis has some decisions to make and will appreciate our Lord’s guidance.
Earl to read and understand Scriptures he has been given.
Jeanette has had many members of her family die from diabetes and several are near death now. Jeanette does not know the Lord and is despondent and perplexed about her family and herself. Please pray she can open her heart to allow the Holy Ghost in to bring her knowledge and understanding.
Dr. Elizabeth Raj is teaching a biblical approach to the psychological problems facing many in our society today. She is battling against the growing influence of worldly psychology adopted by the churches themselves. Elizabeth constantly stresses answers are found between the covers of that precious Book, the Holy Bible. Please pray for encouragement, strength, fortitude and courage for her.
Abigail is a teenager who has behavior problems. She feels she is in an area of mental darkness. Please pray that she might look to God for help and not within herself.
Sara asks that you pray for guidance for her as she deals with the stresses of her family and life. Pray that she can separate those things which she can affect from those things which she cannot and give her grace to accept that she cannot do everything and can only change those things within her control. She asks for God’s help for her business so that she might remain gainfully employed while keeping up with the needs of her mother and husband and healing her own problems.
Jacquie to open her heart to God and accept His Love and Grace.
Hap asks you to pray he might be able to trust God will help him make the right decisions at the right time and not to worry uselessly, to change those things he can change, accept those things he cannot change, sleep well to be able to do the correct things with a clear head and that he will open his heart to the Holy Ghost.
School Challenges
Destiny, Blake and Janet
Anglican Orthodox Church
Serbia
Bishop Jerry is visiting the Anglican Orthodox Church of Serbia. He is currently in Belgrade where he ordained Miroslau Crcvenka as a Deacon on Saturday and Igor Djurcik as a minister or priest on Sunday into The Anglican Orthodox Church of Serbia.
Please give thanks for these men answering God’s call to the ministry in a difficult time in a difficult country. Give them the gift of the Holy Ghost that they might find God’s understanding, comfort, strength, perseverance and inspiration to serve Him.
Philippines
Good news from Bishop Anthony of the Philippine Islands:
Dear Bishop+ Ogles:
Hello! I just arrived from Tabuk after consecrating the Chapel made out of cogon in Nambaran. Its exciting to see plenty of kids attending the service. On the opposite village, the whole community invited us to schedule a service in the place. Their sincerity was confirmed by the willingness of one couple, Mr. and Mrs. Nestor Binnuloc, to donate a portion of land for the purpose. I instructed The Rev. Sherwin to arrange a schedule of service in that place. Thank you again for your continuous prayer over our ministry here.
In Christ Jesus,
Anthony Pangsiw
Bishop of the Philippine Islands
Pakistan
Kenneth Gill of Lahore, Pakistan, who is filling the large shoes of his father, the Rev. Younis Gill, who ministered to the church in Lahore. Kenneth is serving the members of Lahore and is taking theological courses from our seminary in Pakistan. Rev Younis Gill went to sleep in God on 4 December of 2013. This is a huge undertaking and only with God is it possible, even then it is hard! Give Kenneth the perseverance required.
The Anglican Orthodox Church in Narowal, Pakistan had its wall boundary collapse due to heavy rain on 5 July 2014. Water from the street is entering into the church compound which may damage the church building. Please pray for our priest and his wife as they try to reconstruct the wall boundary as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage.
India
1 November 2014 was the 118th Anniversary of the India Diocese of our Church in South India. Throughout the area they will have prayer and would like us to join with them as they pray for the Completion of a new Church Building to be dedicated in December.
Central African Republic
Christians in the Central African Republic are experiencing the ravages of a war between the Muslim and Christians. We have both ministers and members of the Anglican Orthodox Church in Central African Republic. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.
Diocese of the Epiphany
Saint Paul’s, Moberly, Missouri would like your prayers that the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so that they might be more effective in spreading the Word of God.
Diocese of Virginia
Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church is under a lot of stress. We all are, but they need even more prayer. Rev Roger Jessup, their wonderful minister, is pressed by the duties of a primary care giver, in addition to all the worries of this world. They have one of their family’s primary breadwinners who will be soon unemployed, absent His intervention. As Rev Roger said so eloquently, “We must pray for those who mean us harm and deprive us of our property are our enemies: Our LORD has so commanded us.” We must pray they will see light and cleave to it while turning their backs on the Prince of this World. Equally important, we must pray that the Lord will raise up a political leader from among us as He has done in the past. Pray also for trust in God for each member of the parish and for them to find economic relief.
Armed Forces & Contractors
Kristyna Thomas (Fort Bragg, SC – Boot Camp), Airman Donny Patton (Hulbert Field, Florida), Jordan Brown (USMC – Fleet Marine Force – Pacific), Trevor Jennings (USAF – KC-10 Boom Operator – New Jersey), Trevor Di Marco (USN – Whidbey Island, EF-18 Pilot), Kurt Thomas (USN – Camp Foster, Okinawa)
For Our Country
Our country has lost its way. Over half the people that vote, voted for a government that promises them things it cannot deliver in return for their souls which it can, will and does take. Our foreign policy backs the rise of Islam, we turn our backs on those who would follow God and arm those who murder them. Pray God will raise up a leader from among the people who can turn the country’s course 180° and attempt to come back to God. Pray the people will recognize that they are headed down a smooth wide road into the pit, a road that will get smoother and smoother, steeper and steeper until the only possible way is down. Down, into the depths of the pit. Pray people will recognize there is:
- · One True and Triune God who is goodness in and of Himself
- · All religions are not equal
- · All ways of life are not equal;
- · The Bible holds the Key to Life;
- · All rights come from God, not the State;
- · Good;
- · Bad;
- · Evil;
- · Right;
- · Wrong;
- · Allah is the Devil;
- · Abortion is no more than sacrifice of children to Baal.
Pray this recognition will not come too late. Pray we will, each of us, do our duty to God, Country and Family, putting His Honor above all.
Persecuted
Around the world, Christians are under attack, not only in the Muslim world, but from Hindus and others in India. Also, they are under continual attack in the name of “Separation of Church and State” in the western world, as it becomes actively atheist or pro-devil buddy. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.
Thanksgiving
Tuck Arnold gives thanks for safe travel to Fort Lauderdale, Florida this week.
Whitney Cruz gives thanks for a month of safe and enjoyable travel to the United Kingdom and Europe and peace of mind for her mom as she waited for Whitney’s return.
Various Special Requests
Africa is experiencing an outbreak of the Ebola Virus; causing sickness and many deaths. Please pray for people of Africa and for their Health Providers.
The Anglican Orthodox Church in Peshawar, Pakistan sustained damage to their building as the result of heavy rains. At present the roof is being rebuilt and they have not been able to hold services. Pray it will be fixed very soon and a new place might be found until the church is restored.
Nathalie is teaching English in a small western Ukrainian town where they are having so many problems. Pray for Nathalie and others around the world who are standing up for Christian principles in their countries.
This is a horrible time for the people of India, Christians in particular; they are having problems with Hunger, Bank Closings, Transportation and Schools not functioning. Pray for the Leaders and Members of our Church in Eluru Andhra Pradesh. Pray their basic needs will be met and God will be close to them in this time of need.
Please pray for all the people of Egypt; Bishop Mouneer Anis of Egypt is asking your prayer as the supporters of the deposed Mursi government, with the support of the United States government, have been attacking Christian churches–Anglican, Catholic and Orthodox. They destroyed the car of Anglican priest Rev. Ehab Ayoub. The people of Egypt, the people of the United States need our prayers, even more so the people of the Muslim Brotherhood that they might repent of their evil and know God so the rest of the people may live in peace.
We ask that you pray, please ask God that the Holy Ghost might give you insight into how you might make the lives of your friends and family better. Remember helping others is not just those who you don’t know!
Please join us in praying that the Free Teen Guitar Class will be continue to be an opportunity for God to work in the lives of the kids and their families. Please ask God to guide the class to new opportunities to make Him known to others. Help us to let the love of our Lord shine through us into their lives, putting Him first, so that He might enter in to their hearts and lives.
The near future, as well as Next Sunday
9 November 2014 – Twenty-First Sunday after Trinity – AOC Established 1963 – 51 years old – 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
16 November 2014 – Twenty-Second Sunday after Trinity – Holy Communion – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
23 November 2014 – Sunday Next before Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
27 November 2014 – Thanksgiving Day – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
30 November 2014 – First Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
7 December 2014 – Second Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
14 December 2014 – Third Sunday in Advent – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
21 December 2014 – Fourth Sunday in Advent – Holy Communion – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
25 December 2014 – Christmas Day – Holy Communion – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
28 December 2014 – Holy Innocents – 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]In that day, the giver of such a feast would have provided wedding garments for those who traveled far and were unable to bring one. In our case, Jesus provides the appropriate garb to those who will wear it, not just accept it and put it to one side.