OCT 23rd Pause with the Pastor and Announcements
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
Pause with the Pastor
Dear family and friends,
Most of us want to be more loving, patient, joyful, and self-controlled. The problem is that wanting those qualities and actually demonstrating them are two very different things!
Paul writes in Galatians 5:22, 23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”
Notice that even though there are nine fruits, Paul says ‘fruit’, singular. Why? Because these nine qualities aren’t nine separate spiritual accomplishments that we get to pick and choose from. They’re different expressions of one Spirit-produced character—the character of Jesus Christ. We can’t say, “Well, I’m pretty good at kindness, but patience just isn’t my thing!” The Holy Spirit isn’t interested in making us loving OR patient OR gentle. He’s working to make us loving AND patient AND gentle—more like Jesus in every area of life.
And fruit doesn’t appear overnight. Fruit grows on trees that are alive, healthy, and receiving what they need. Spiritual fruit isn’t something we can manufacture through sheer determination. The Holy Spirit produces it as we walk closely with Jesus. So, how do we cultivate that kind of spiritual growth?
First, in John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
This is where it all begins. We can’t produce Christlike character apart from Christ Himself. That means we spend time with Him in His Word, we talk with Him in prayer, and we depend on Him throughout the day.
The secret to bearing more fruit isn’t trying harder to look like Jesus. It’s drawing closer to Jesus so His life increasingly shapes ours.
Second, keep in step with the Spirit. Paul says in Galatians 5:16, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Then in verse 25 he adds, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” This is a daily choice.
When someone mistreats you, will you retaliate or show kindness? When temptation comes, will you give in or exercise self-control? Every day gives us opportunities to surrender to the Spirit rather than give in to our sinful impulses. And we’re not passive in this process. The Spirit supplies the power, but we’re responsible to cooperate with His work.
Of course, we have to let God’s Word transform our thinking. Paul writes in Colossians 3:16, “Let the message of Christ dwell in you richly.” The more God’s Word fills our minds, the more it reshapes our attitudes and responses. As we meditate on Scripture and live it out, the Holy Spirit uses the truth of the Word to make us increasingly like Jesus. Ask God to show you which fruit of the Spirit you lack most, then look for opportunities each day to let the Holy Spirit grow that quality in how you treat others.
We have added some new testimonies at the end of this email from folks who will be baptized on November 1 and others. Please take a moment to read them.
In preparation for this Sunday’s sermon, please review Genesis 1 and 2 from last week and read 1 Timothy 2:8 – 3:13 and Titus 2:1-8.
HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS
ELOY GARCIA – Administrative pastor at Clairemont Emmanuel for nearly 40 years, our former youth pastor, and leader of our PrimeTimers—is in the presence of the Lord after a battle with Alzheimer’s. A service is planned for him on October 23 at 4PM, followed by a reception with light refreshments. Please pray for his wife, Becky, and all their other children and grandchildren, including daughter Jessica Mohr (currently part of our Clairemont Emmanuel staff) and her family. Cards are appreciated, but please don’t call.
DICK CAPEN – Our brother and Clairemont Emmanuel member went to be with the Lord recently. He is rejoicing in the presence of His Savior. Please pray for his wife, Joan, and their children and grandchildren in this loss. Cards are appreciated, but please don’t call. A service for him will be held on November 7 at 11AM.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD HAS ARRIVED AT CLAIREMONT EMMANUEL!
The shoeboxes have arrived! 350 green and red Operation Christmas Child (OCC) shoeboxes are now available to Clairemont Emmanuel folks. OCC partners with local churches worldwide to provide shoeboxes filled with small toys, hygiene items, and school supplies to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with children. Shoeboxes will be available on the patio through November 8th. Please return all shoeboxes to the OCC table by Sunday, November 15th. Please consider being part of this ministry, which shows God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world. If you have any questions about the ministry or how you can participate, please contact Paul Champlin at 619-209-1237.
TRUNK OR TREAT
Community Life Ministries is hosting a Trunk or Treat event tomorrow, October 24th, 4-6 PM in the Clairemont Emmanuel upper parking lot. We are looking for 30 families or teams to decorate a car and host a spot handing out candy to our church and community kids. We invite our whole church to come out to the event. There will be food and activities for all ages. Sign-ups to host a car will be out on the patio on Sunday or you can sign up on the church website. You can also contact Pastor Aaron if you have any questions.
SUNDAY
Before and after each service, voting on the proposed amendments to the Clairemont Emmanuel Constitution and By-laws will continue. Please participate in this important process that will help guide our church in the coming years. Vote by email or visit the tables on the patio this Sunday to cast your ballot
WORSHIP NIGHT
You are invited to join Clairemont Emmanuel Community Life Ministries for a night of community prayer and worship on Sunday, November 1st, from 5PM to 6PM in the Fellowship Hall. This event is for ages 12 and up. We are excited to have a space for an extended time of worship. If you have any questions, please reach out to Pastor Aaron.
OVERSEER/DEACON MEETING
The next combined Overseer/Deacon meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 3rd, from 6–8 PM in The Upper Room. Please join us for updates on various ministries at Clairemont Emmanuel.
THE ANNUAL VETERANS BANQUET
For Veterans, Active Duty, and their “significant other” guest—will be held on November 7th. If you haven’t already signed up for this FREE luncheon, please stop by the Veterans table after service to reserve your seats.
PRIMETIMERS FALL CELEBRATION ACTIVITIES!
Primetimers, please come to the table located on the patio to sign up for the various events that will be happening during November and December. On Friday, November 13th we will tour the Creation & Earth History Museum, on Wednesday, November 18th we will celebrate our annual Thanksgiving dinner, and on Wednesday, December 2nd we will attend the annual Lambs Players Festival of Christmas presentation. Come to table on Sunday to get details on each of these events. If you have any questions, please contact Paul Champlin at 619-209-1237.
MISSIONS BOOK CLUB
Join us for the missions book club, which will resume in 2027. Meetings will be held on Friday evenings once a quarter in Clairemont. Our first book of the new year will be Isobel Kuhn by Lois Hoadley Dick. If you’re interested, you can reach out to Maria Farr (619-599-5693) or Danielle Huffman (435-531-2934).
WHY VOTE? – Jeremiah 29:7 says, “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” As Christians, we should vote thoughtfully and prayerfully because God calls us to seek the good of our communities. Voting is a practical way to love our neighbors and help shape a society that values justice and righteousness. Every voting cycle, people ask whether there are online resources to help them decide whom to vote for. Here are some to consider: Family Voter Information, Local Ballot Measures, Statewide Propositions
BAPTISM AND MEMBERSHIP
Timothy Gettis
(will be baptized November 1)
When I went to AWANA at our church in Ramona, I fully understood that Jesus was my Savior. I later prayed with my parents to accept Jesus into my heart.
If Jesus were to ask me why I should be let into heaven, I would say that I trusted in Him. I believe He died on the cross, rose again, and forgave my sins. Even though I have sinned, He has forgiven me.
My favorite verse is Romans 13:14, which says, “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.” It’s my favorite because it inspires me to be a light to others and not try to fit into this world. I also like the idea of “clothing” myself with Jesus.
Faith Warren
(will be baptized November )
I grew up in the church, but I officially became a Christian when I was about 6. I believe that Jesus came to earth to die on the cross to save us from our sins and that He rose from the dead on the third day. If Jesus asked me why I get to go to heaven, I would say, “It isn’t because of what I have done, but because you have given me the chance by dying on the cross, and I have accepted it.” I want to be baptized because it publicly declares that I believe in Jesus, and I don’t want to keep my faith a secret. My favorite verse is James 1:2–3, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”
Aiden Phillips
(will be baptized November 1)
I learned about Jesus growing up in a Christian family and attending church, and I have always believed in Him and tried to follow Him. I know he wants me to be baptized, and I want to obey and take this next step. I believe He died for my sins so that I may have eternal life with him. I want to go to heaven to live in a perfect relationship with God forever. My favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 3:5 because it reminds me to trust God every day in every circumstance.
Dahlia Robinson
(will be baptized November 1)
I was saved when I was seven years old in a Christmas Eve service at CEBC. I remember the moment when I realized I was a hopeless sinner, and there was nothing I could do about it except turn to God and receive his gift of salvation. In my middle school and high school years, I faced a lot of difficulty with my health, and because of that, I found myself drifting away from God. I never stopped believing in him, but I felt so distant and lost from his love. Over the past year, I have seen God working miraculously in my life.
Despite a lot of pain, I have been able to find joy in the Lord, and I rejoice in the ways that he is growing and challenging me. While I have been saved since I was seven, I have never been baptized. I think that for a long time I was waiting to feel “ready”. I realize now that God isn’t asking me to be perfect, but rather act in obedience despite my brokenness. I am so excited to continue walking with the Lord, wherever he may lead me!
If I were to stand before the Lord and he asked me, “Why should I let you into Heaven?” I could only have one response. That is, by no works I have done. Only through Jesus’ death on the cross and his resurrection can my sins be atoned for. I am completely undeserving of salvation, and yet God chose to save me despite my wretchedness.
My favorite verse is John 10:27–30, which reads, “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
This has been my favorite verse since I was a little girl. I love the imagery of God being my shepherd who holds me fast. I think the reference to the whole Trinity caring about me enough to save me is so spectacularly beautiful. These verses have brought me peace and comfort throughout many difficult seasons, and I always hold them close to my heart.
John Edson
I was born with one arm and dyslexia, and my father died when I was four. Through my pain, I found peace, purpose, and meaning in my Savior, Jesus Christ. I know that Jesus paid the price for me on the cross, and that is the only way I can enter heaven. My favorite verse is Matthew 18:8: “If your hand or your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to enter Life, maimed or crippled, than to have two hands or two feet and be thrown into eternal fire.” This verse speaks to me, born with one arm, and to the need for complete dependence on God.
Lauren Ezell
(will be baptized soon)
My son has been part of Young Life at Mission Bay High School. He invited me to church and has shown me the love of Christ. I know the only reason I can go to heaven is that God loves me and gave his life for me. My favorite verses are Luke 5:20 and Luke 7:48, where Jesus says to the woman who anointed his feet and to the paralyzed man, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”
Kern Ezell
(will be baptized soon)
The first time I was exposed to the gospel was through Young Life at Mission Bay High School. From there, I met many people who have helped me grow, including Manuel, who has walked with me, and Ray Menegus, who can answer any question I’ve had. I know that Jesus died for my sins, and his death on the cross is the only reason I can enter heaven. My favorite verse is John 3:16. It may be a common answer, but it was the first verse I memorized and has helped me through many hard times: “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Manuel Flores
(will be baptized soon)
My family was Roman Catholic when I was growing up. It was more tradition than actual faith or belief. I started coming to faith during my sophomore year of high school through Young Life at Mission Bay High School. The only way I can get into heaven is through faith in Christ and what he accomplished for me on the cross. My favorite verse is John 14:6, where Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through me.” I love this verse because it shows that Christ is the truth, the only truth, and the only way to have a relationship with God.
Tim Flannery
I grew up in the Roman Catholic Church, but I always rejected idolatry and dead rituals. In high school, a friend dragged me to a Bible study, where I recognized God and Christ as the truth and have followed them ever since. I know that all my good deeds cannot make up for even one of my sins, so I appeal to Christ's sacrifice, which washes me clean and is the only way I will ever get into heaven. I am only worthy because of him. My favorite verse is Malachi 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” I love this verse for its peaceful, simple clarity and its clear guidance on how to live and make choices.
Nancy Monroy
My mother explained the gospel to me when I was eight, and by God’s leading, I realized I needed a Savior and confessed Christ as my Savior and Lord. I know the only reason I will enter Heaven is that Christ died for me on the cross for my sins. I trust Him for forgiveness, and God sees me as righteous because of that. My favorite verse is Romans 5:8, “But God demonstrates his own love toward us in the while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” I cannot be good enough on my own to be saved.
Greyson Reynolds
(will be baptized soon)
I grew up in the church and have always attended church and followed Christ. This relationship has grown stronger year after year. I believe God sent his son to pay for my sin with his blood, and I have unwavering faith in him and in what he did on my behalf. My favorite verse is John 15:13, “greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” I know Jesus laid down his life for me.
Julia Reynolds
I was raised as a Christian in school and church. Once I became an adult, I stayed in my faith—I think that after college I was able to strengthen it by seeking out a church on my own. I know that I am imperfect, a sinner, and that nothing I have done could be enough to earn my way into heaven. Going to heaven is priceless, but I know that my debt has been paid by Christ. I love Psalm 40:8, which expresses exactly what my heart feels, that his word is written in my heart: “I desire to do your will, my God; your law is within my heart.”
Kaden Ryan
At around age six, I heard the gospel at my home church. I understood that I had to either spend my life with God and receive salvation through Jesus or spend it apart from God in eternity. I put my faith in Christ, and I’ve been living and growing in him ever since. I know I will go to heaven because Christ died and rose for me. I’m clinging to him by faith, knowing only he can save me. My favorite verse is John 15:4–5, “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” I completely understand that apart from Christ, I can do nothing.
Isaac Siebelink
I grew up in a Christian household, committed my life to Jesus at an early age, and continue to grow in my love for him. I believe Christ is the gate through which I will enter heaven, and that he welcomes me just as I welcome him into my heart. I love Micah 6:8: “To do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly before your God.”
Ruth Bigley
I became a Christian as a result of a Bible study at our senior class trip in high school. That’s where the seed was planted. I began attending Bible studies with my high school friends and began reading the gospel of Matthew. It was a while reading the gospel that I saw my need to accept Christ as my personal Savior and came to faith in Christ. If I were to show up at heaven’s gate, and God asked me why He should let me in, I would say it is because of Christ’s righteousness and His blood covenant with me – not my merit. My favorite versus Hebrews 13:5, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Brady Buser
I was saved at a young age, and don’t remember the exact day that I understood and accepted Christ as my Savior, but I do remember learning to grow to love my Heavenly Father as I grew up. Because I understood His love for me, that He would go to the Cross to pay my eternal debt that I could not pay, that I would be welcomed into His family. If the Lord asked me why He should let me into heaven, my reply would be that there is nothing that I have done that is worthy of eternal life with Him, except for what I have been given by His Son’s death for Me.
My favorite verses is James 1:5. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” I appreciate the fact that my Heavenly Father is one who does not withhold good things from His children, but also, that what the Lord is generously giving us His wisdom to grow in love and affection for Him!
Christopher Deal
I was raised in the New Apostolic Church, and attendance was compulsory. I didn’t know why I believed in Jesus, nor could I defend my faith. As I got older and could make my own decisions, I didn’t attend church. There were times I could feel Christ calling me to Him. In 2010 I was living in sin and got my girlfriend pregnant. Knowing it was wrong, I still encouraged her to have an abortion. I moved to San Diego a year or so later and visited the Rock Church; it was Mother’s Day. Pastor Miles said he wanted to pray and wish Happy Mother’s Day to all the mothers there and even for those who’ve had an abortion because they are mothers as well; and they will see their child in heaven. God used that to convict me and at that moment I dedicated my life to Christ and was saved. My favorite verses are Ephesians 1:3-14. These verses reinforce the fact that I am not in control. I am confident I will go to heaven not because of anything I have done but because Jesus did everything for me.
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Victoria Deal
For most of my childhood I thought I was a Christian because my family was. Since I went to church all the time and because I was a “good girl” God surely would accept me. I did not have any desire to read my Bible and actually apply it to my heart. When I was 9 years old I was baptized and believed the Gospel was true and asked Christ to be my Savior to forgive my sin. Looking back, I still lived as though my salvation and acceptance by God was up to my obedience and being a good person. I had a very skewed and wrong view of salvation in thinking that my “goodness” is what saved me, not the righteousness of Christ. I could not have told you all of this back then because “you don’t know what you don’t know,” but that’s really where my heart was at . . . obeying laws and making rules for myself instead of trusting in Jesus’ righteousness and God’s grace through faith. I think I was in a Christian bubble trying to be the best Christian I could be. I knew I sinned by getting angry, being selfish, prideful, or having a bad attitude, but I also saw my parents act like this who were Christian’s so it was a confusing time for me as a new believer. My parents were not really taking the time to explain to me what to do with my sin when it happened, so I just fell back into the legalistic ways I had been living before becoming a Christian.
When I entered the 8th grade and temptations came my “goodness” could not save me because I found out I was not good in a real tangible way. I started rebelling against my parents because they were in a way “my god” or whom I was trying to please and perform for, and not the God of the Bible.
I began lying, cheating on tests, disobeying my parents, going to parties, etc. That continued through the 9th grade and beginning of 10th, but got worse with high school and me making the cheerleading team. I lived for popularity and desperately wanted to fit in. The only way I got affirmation was by people-pleasing. I put on different masks for different people: church friends, my parents, cheerleading, dance, etc. I was fake and after a while grew tired of trying to deceive everyone. I got really depressed seeking approval from all these ‘idols.’ But God was always with me still.
Even though my sin made me feel distant from Him, He was pursuing my heart relentlessly and through a good friend He drew me back to Himself. I had a friend that always saw right through me. I would tell him I was a Christian, but when it came to him asking me the hard questions about my faith, I knew my lifestyle did not back up the talk I was talking. He was still always very kind to me and gracious. He persistently asked me to come to his church’s youth group for over a year and in the fall of my 10th grade year I finally went.
Side Note – when I was entering high school the youth pastor at my parents church moved with his family to New Zealand as missionaries and the church did not have a replacement youth pastor for several years. There was really no youth group at my home church, just youth gatherings that were led by parents (not mine) and no real discipleship at home.
However, God had a plan for my life! It was at this youth group where God broke me over my sin and gave me hope through the Gospel and His amazing grace. It was truly glorious. My high school years ended up being some of the best years of my life because I had truly found a personal relationship with God. I was discipled by the youth pastor’s wife and we had small groups where we learned how to read the Bible and apply it to our hearts and lives. I learned how to repent from my sins and rely on God’s love and grace when I struggled with sin. I went on missions trips and did ministry through dance. I was able to make a Christlike impact on my Cheerleading team and half of my cheerleading team came to faith in Christ my senior year.
There were so many good memories and growth that came from that youth ministry during high school. Everything after that has been an amazing journey of learning more about the grace of God and the Gospel. Throughout college and my 20’s, I have many other testimonies of hard lessons learned and victories won. It’s so encouraging to my heart to look back on how God is sanctifying me and transforming me still. I have a long way to go in becoming more like Christ, but His grace is so sufficient for me each day and I look forward to one day being with Him in glory.
I know, I am not worthy to enter heaven. I am a sinner, and there’s nothing – nothing – nothing good in me except the righteousness of Christ in His work on the cross. My merit is flawed with all my sin, but here’s the résumé and testimony of Christ from Galatians 2:20: “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!”
Gail Frick
I grew up in a Christian home, where I was taught about God’s love, salvation, and the importance of prayer. Faith has been a process rather than an aha moment, and each blessing and crisis has strengthened my faith, trust and reliance on the Lord. At heaven’s gate, I would say that I am here, not by my own doing, but by God’s grace. By grace through faith, Jesus saved me. My favorite verse is Psalm 91, “The Lord is my refuge and fortress.” I proclaim his name, and because I love Him he will protect and rescue me.
Brad Hurlbut
I was raised in a lukewarm church, and did not have assurance of my salvation. The teacher led me to the Lord by sharing John 3:3 explaining that I needed to be born again. Christ would let me into heaven, because I love him as my Lord and Savior he paid the price I could never print, pay. My favorite, but I have lots of them, is Ephesians 2:8, 9, “For it is by grace you’ve been saved through faith, and this is not of yourselves; it is the gift of God not by works so that no one can boast.”
Gina Hurlbut
I became a Christian in the fall of my sophomore year at University in 1978. I was not raised in a Christian home, although we would only go to church at Easter and Christmas. I believed in Jesus as a historical figure. In college, I was presented the truth of Jesus, being my savior by a young woman with Campus Crusade for Christ. When I die, I know I will go straight to be in the presence of my Lord, not because of anything, I have done, but because of the substitutionary death of Jesus for my sins. My favorite verse is Proverbs 14:26 “She who fears the Lord has a secure fortress for her children. It will be a refuge.”
Lara LeCompte
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Lara LeCompte
I grew up in a small Christian church but did not fully understand the Christian faith. As a freshman in college, I started to think about my life and purpose, created a timeline of goals for myself, (college degree, get a stable job, get married, have kids, buy house, etc.). But it all seemed simple, somewhat small; I felt that there could be more to life than that. I was invited to a church youth service, started discipleship, went to a retreat, where I learned more deeply what Christ did for me and how it heals me, and how He saved me from sin and death and it became my own. I learned how the Holy Spirit empowers me to live Christlike, developing a deeper sense of purpose now in every season and stage of life. My favorite verses are Ephesians 2:4-10. “But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
This is my favorite verse because of how it describes the reason for Jesus’ sacrifice for me–because of God’s rich mercy and great love, the depth of my need for Jesus’ sacrifice–I were dead, the result of His sacrifice and God’s desire for me, and all of us–He made me alive in Christ and seated me with Him, that after I was dead, then made alive, God still has a purpose for me – and all of us.
This is also my favorite verse to quote when sharing the gospel to non-believers. It shows that though one might feel hopeless and purposeless, there is still hope and purpose in and through Jesus.
Nate LeCompte
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Nate LeCompte
My parents took me to church. While in kid’s church, there was an altar call and I went to the front (which looked like a castle), and I prayed the sinners prayer. My parents continued to take me to church and teach me about Jesus. Today I understand the wages of sinners is death, and it’s a debt I cannot pay. To pay my debt and be restored in relationship to my Heavenly Father fully by the one-time sacrifice of Jesus Christ for my sins. I can claim no other nor claim any responsibility. My salvation is a work of God’s unmerited grace given to me. My favorite verse is Romans 5:8-11, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation.” This is my favorite verse because it so clearly teaches that God loved me enough to allow Jesus to die for me while the debt of sin was between me and Him, sparing me from the wrath due my sin. Even further, it not only shows me that a debt was standing between me, but that my sin made me enemies against God. Illustrating that it’s not just an offense but that my sin made me at war with God. That Christ’s payment isn’t just to make peace with God in death, but His resurrection is also new life for me now. Finally, we who now have right standing can rejoice that we have been saved now that we have received reconciliation to God the Father.
Suzanne Sroka
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Suzanne Sroka
(will be baptized soon)
When I was a child growing up in a Lutheran church, I had a connection with Jesus, not sure why or how that occurred, but I believed He existed. When I was young, I prayed to Jesus, but only when I needed something for someone. I didn’t really have a true relationship with Him because it was very one-sided. It wasn’t until I reached my greatest challenge in life, the loss of my husband, this is when my relationship with Jesus began to change. Jesus provided me connections with neighbors, who were believers, to provide me the love and care needed during my grieving period. Two years ago, I read the bible and through Bible Study, I realized how important my relationship is with Jesus. I think it was at this time l became a true Christian, I started to understand who God, Son of God, and the Holy Spirit was and how much I was loved. My love for Christ has evolved every day since, as He has become the most important thing in my life. One good thing about getting older is that you have an advantage of reflecting on your life and seeing how God’s plan for me has emerged over the years. The Holy Spirit nudged and pointed at me throughout my life; sometimes I listened and sometimes I didn’t. I always wanted to be in control of my decisions, but I realize now, Jesus was really guiding me through life; I just needed to take heed of His direction. I can see the results of the choices I made and the role the Lord played in those decisions. He never gave up on me over the years, so I have been blessed with a great life. Knowing God has my back gives me great comfort, confidence, and peace in my life. He has prepared me to be a better servant to Him, while I’m on earth. I am not worried about anything, as I know He watches over me. I know the Lord will welcome me into His new heaven and earth with open arms, so I might continue to serve Him. I love my new relationship with Jesus.
My favorite bible passages is Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul,” and also Psalm 91:1, 2 “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
all other Announcements
HOLY LAND TRIP? Given the current situation, any trip would be in a couple years from now, or later, but not earlier. In the past, former member, Eric Johnson has organized trips “In the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul” (to Turkey, Greece and Rome), to Israel, and a “Protestant Historical Tour of Germany and either England or Scotland.” Take the survey only if you’re interested in one or more of these trips. The survey link is found at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PS2RBZX. The survey is ten questions long and the only one you have to answer is the first—your name. If you have any questions, contact Pastor Kenny.
CLAIREMONT EMMANUEL VETERANS GROUP – If you are you a vet of any branch of military service, contact Timothy Hulbert at timothy_hulbert@yahoo.com, or 858-754-7946 to find out more. We would love for you to join us.
INTERESTED IN JOINING A SMALL GROUP? – Would you like to start or join a small group? Participants decide the frequency and scope of their gatherings. Small groups meet together for fellowship, prayer, and Bible study. These groups are an integral part of our church community. Most meet regularly in the home of a group member. It may include dinner from time-to-time. If you haven’t found a group in your area, please let us know! Call or text Pastor Aaron if you’re interested. (If you’re interested in a women’s group, contact Lois Taylor at the church office.)
PRAYER TENT – Community outreach prayer tent opportunity. For the past months on Monday evenings from 6-8PM in the middle parking lot, you may have seen a blue easy-up with “Need prayer?” sign and a couple of Clairemont Emmanuel people there to pray, talk to people, and hand out Bibles and other information. If you’re interested in finding out more, stop by on a Monday evening or call/text Dan Cassels at 619-972-5976.
CARE FOR CLAIREMONT – Is a group of guys willing to help do some safe, light, ‘muscle jobs’ for seniors that could take around an hour or so to do. If you are in need of some help around your home, contact Pastor Kenny.
SEE SOMEONE YOU DON’T RECOGNIZE AT CHURCH? – Please don’t assume that someone else will greet them. Will YOU go up and introduce yourself to them and welcome them this Sunday to Clairemont Emmanuel!
AFTER-SERVICE PRAYER – We will continue to invite people to come forward for prayer at the end of the service. Please know that this is an invitation for you to come forward and pray about anything that God has put on your heart. Of course to know the Lord, or to make spiritual decisions, but also to pray for anything personal you’d like prayer for. You might have a special prayer request for family, friends, work, etc. Maybe it’s on your heart to come and pray for our pastors, missionaries, staff, youth, children, or one of our other ministries, etc. Our team is available to pray with you about anything God puts on your heart. Please come and join us.
PRAY FOR OUR SERVICE MEMBERS DEPLOYED or ON ASSIGNMENT – We have several of our young men who are currently deployed. PLEASE PRAY especially for Bryant, Kerry, Ty, Mike and Cole, Ryan. (For security we’re just going with first names.) Please text Pastor Kenny and let him know of any other members or regular attenders who are deployed or away temporarily and please pray for them.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
PAUSE WITH THE PASTOR | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | ALL OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | CLASS SCHEDULE | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
2026 Class Schedule
· All classes are held in The Upper Room from 2-5PM
· Text Pastor Kenny (619-508-3785) if you’re interested in reserving a spot for any of these classes.
· Our goal is that every member takes each one of the classes.
Oct 11 Ministry
Nov 8 Membership
Jan 10 Evangelism
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
PAUSE WITH THE PASTOR | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | ALL OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | CLASS SCHEDULE | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES
YOUNGLIVES VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
The Children’s ministry is making Blessing Bags for the We See You, San Diego, homeless guests for their Thanksgiving meal. Here is our Amazon wish list.
YoungLives is having a Friendsgiving and needs some decorations and ministry support for leader care: You can find the Amazon list here. Thank you as always for your support!
Handmade Christmas Gifts with Santa – Center Church is hosting our 4th annual event. We need volunteers from 12-5pm on Sat Dec 12th. Please reach out to Jeanie Presley if interested.
Olive Crest Meal Train – Meal (for 12) for Teen Drop-in Shelter - Can you consider making a meal once a month for their shelter? They now have afternoon and evening drop-offs available for selection: Click Here
YoungLives – Additional support for this fun ministry: #1. First Thursday at Friendship Church in Logan Heights or Third Friday at Catalyst Church in Paradise Hills, always 6:30-8:30PM. We need childcare volunteers once a month. Would you please consider helping out? You can serve as a family. #2. Anyone or a couple want to be our set-up/tear-down support for Club? Third Thursday at Catalyst Church in Paradise Hills. Set up tables and chairs 5:30-6:30, go have dinner somewhere, and return to clean up and put the tables and chairs away.
INTERESTED IN SERVING IN KIDS MINISTRY? – We have many opportunities to join on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. We’d love to have you join us in our partnership with parents to disciple this next generation! Get involved by contacting Susan Robinson at 619-985-5188 or at SusanAnnRobinson@gmail.com.
SOUND BOOTH – Those who control the video, sound, and lights, are looking for more volunteers for Sunday mornings. If you have any technical skills or desire to learn, talk to Pastor Zach or Stephen Carpenter in the sound booth and let them know you’d like to join the team.
WELCOME TABLE VOLUNTEERS – Have a heart to welcome our church on Sunday mornings? We invite you to serve here! The welcome table is a place to welcome all guests, to be a warm space for newcomers (and the regulars) to be seen and known, to connect them with our community, get their questions answered, to share about our church history and culture, and to get resources. Please contact Sunshine McCroskey for more details at speechsunshine@gmail.com. (Church membership required.)
AV MINISTRY – Men and women! If you are looking for a ministry (especially if you have a background in technology / sound, but even if you don’t), contact Pastor Zach (858-322-2105), or one of the guys in the sound booth and let them know you’d like to join the team.
SPECIAL NEEDS MINISTRY – Children’s Ministry is exploring the idea of starting a Special Needs Team to better support individuals and families in our church community who have children with special needs. No experience is necessary—we’re simply looking to see who might be interested in learning more. This is not a commitment, just a chance to express curiosity or willingness to be involved in the future. If you’d like to be part of the conversation, please contact Nikki Uyboco at nikknacks1@gmail.com.
GREETING AND USHERING – If you are interested in greeting and ushering, talk to Joe Dameron on Sunday morning or to Timothy Hulbert (first service) or Justin Hoech (second service).
COMMUNITY CARE – Community Care ministry would like to love on our Clairemont Emmanuel members in times of need (surgery, illness, cancer treatments, death of loved one) as well as celebrations of life (wedding, birth, new home, etc.). If you know of a member that deserves some love please submit a prayer card addressed to Community Care with member name and address and reason for care and our team will make sure a card will be sent to them.
MINISTRY TABLES – If you are a leader of one of our many ministries and would like a table on the patio, contact the office (619-276-1922) to schedule a Sunday! Plan to be at your table after both services.
SMALL GROUP LEADERS – If you’re interested in the possibility of leading an adult small group, contact Pastor Aaron.
FIRST SERVICE GREETERS – Are you interested in greeting people as they come to church? We’re looking for a few friendly people to join our team. Reach out to Joe Dameron at 858-603-8462 or stop by the table of the patio today.
COMMUNITY CARE MINISTRY • ADOPT A MOM – We are seeking an individual or family to “adopt” a young mom and child from YoungLives for a one-year commitment. This involves weekly call/text, visitation twice a month and cards/gifts on special occasions like birthdays. We “adopted” Marianna and Romeo last year and they are now exceeding our expectations as far as growth and progress. We as a church want to replicate this with another family. For more information contact Jeanie Presley at jeanie.presley@gmail.com or 619-997-2079.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
PAUSE WITH THE PASTOR | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | ALL OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | CLASS SCHEDULE | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES