DEC 27th Devotional and Announcements
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
Dear family and friends,
I can’t think of a better verse for this week than 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. It’s our guide for reflection on what God has done in 2024 and anticipating what He will do in 2025:“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Author Christopher de Vinck writes: “Gratitude is the exclamation point after the narration of our lives. Whether we are grateful for big things (life, liberty, love) or grateful for the small things (the flight of the heron, chocolate, the scent of the sea), we are the only creatures on earth who can articulate a sense of appreciation with words of thanks.”
Elie Wiesel, the man who lost his family but not his faith during the Holocaust, wrote: “When a person doesn’t have gratitude, something is missing in his or her humanity.”
What is so amazing about gratitude is that it has nothing to do with having more and more things but it’s an intentional awareness of God’s presence and His goodness, NO MATTER WHAT OUR SITUATION IS IN LIFE. Biblical gratitude flows out of a godly heart.
We see it most profoundly in the life of Jesus. A couple examples:
In the feeding of the thousands, Jesus gave thanks – not for the abundance, but for what God had already provided – showing faith that the Father would supply what would be needed.
Before Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, He gave thanks to the Father revealing His total confidence in God’s power and purpose, even when staring death in the face.
These are just a couple of many examples, and each time, Jesus’ gratitude reflects His trust in God as His Father and complete trust in God’s purposes.
What are you thankful for over these last twelve months? How has God answered your prayers? Where has He guided you? When did He provide you strength, or wisdom, or hope? Be grateful!
As we step into 2025, let’s have a new goal to follow Paul’s call to “pray continually.”
A new year will of course bring opportunities and also uncertainties, but prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will and reminds us of His sovereignty. Let’s commit to seeking His guidance daily and trusting in His plans for our lives.
Finally, let us purpose to give thanks in 2025—not only for the blessings we see but also in the midst of trials, knowing that God is working all things for good. Gratitude fuels our joy and strengthens our faith as we journey forward.
As we close this year, may we enter the next rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks—confident that God’s grace will sustain us.
For this Sunday, we’ll be back in Luke. In preparation, read Luke 5:17-26.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | JOB OPENINGS | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS
RE | ENGAGE - CEBC MARRIAGE MINISTRY offers Re | Engage—a Biblically based small group discipleship focused on strengthening your marriage! There’s still room for YOU and YOUR SPOUSE to take your marriage to the next level! There are only three spots available for our Wednesday night group! WEDNESDAYS starting January 8, 2025 at 7:00 - 8:30 pm! Register here ASAP: https://clairemontemmanuel.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2580315 More information on the patio.
Dear Couples of CEBC!
This Christmas, give your marriage the gift of ReEngage! No matter how long (or short) you’ve been married, ReEngage is for you! It is a small group study on how the Word of God applies to growth in both your personal life and with your spouse. Topics discussed are: Love, Brokenness, Grace, Humility, Communication, Forgiveness, Making Amends, Reconciliation, Commitment, Expectations, and Emotional, Sexual and Spiritual Intimacy.
You will be looking at Scripture and being honest with yourself and your spouse about how to grow in each of these areas, alongside other couples in your small group. The couples who have gone through it will tell you it has helped them to make their marriage more intimate and more meaningful as well as build close relationships with other sin their groups. It’s never too late to grow your marriage!
There are 3 spots available on Wednesday nights for the Winter/Spring semester, starting January 8th on Wednesdays. The Tuesday class is full, but if you want to be on a waiting list for the Fall, please register anyway!
Here are the links:
Wednesday: https://registrations.planningcenteronline.com/signups/2580315
Tuesday (Waiting List): https://registrations.planningcenteronline.com/signups/2580314
Questions? Join our Facebook page and ask away!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1593636818217104
2025 TITHE BOOKS are available to pick up in the foyer under the tv. If you cannot find your name and would like a book contact Lois at (619- 276-1922).
PRIMETIMERS LUNCH - Wednesday, January 8, 12 PM in the Fellowship Hall
$5 per person
Seniors, please join us to hear from Brent and Michelle Lapp as they share with us a message of “Warfare in the Military and Ministry.” In addition, you will enjoy an incredible catered lunch and a great time of music and fellowship. Please sign up on the back of a Welcome Card.
GUYS BREAKFAST - January 11, 8 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Come join us for the first guy’s breakfast of 2025. As the men kickoff the New Year. Mike Uyboco will be sharing on “Biblical Brotherhood” which is this year’s theme (please sign-up to assist with a head count). If you have any questions, please contact Mike Uyboco at 619-770-0348.
LIVING WATERS MINISTRY - Year in Review and Info Session - Living Waters team would like to invite you and your family to a Pizza lunch January 12th from 12-1:30following Second Service in Fellowship Hall. We will have pictures of our 2024 events and a panel discussion with our Community Partners on how we can continue to partner in 2025. Please RSVP to jeanie.presley@gmail.com or 619-997-2079 by January 5th.
MEN’S MINISTRY 2025 KICKOFF WEEKEND (January 11-12): Please join us for a free catered breakfast on Saturday, January 11th as the men kickoff the New Year. Mike Uyboco will be sharing on “Biblical Brotherhood” which is the theme for 2025 (please sign-up to assist with a head count). On Sunday, January 12th, there will be representatives from each of the E49 groups (Ecclesiastes 4:9) to answer questions and gauge interest in joining their group (see Men’s Ministry website for information on these
groups).
EMMANUEL WOMEN - our next “Steaks & Stories” dinner is January 17! We invite you to join us as we encourage one another’s hearts with a few testimonies, build meaningful relationships, and strengthen each other in the journey God has laid out for us. DETAILS : Friday January 17, 6:00PM in Fellowship Hall. $10/person - sign ups begin today at our ministry table.
MEN’S RETREAT “Stronger Together” (March 14-16): If you are looking to break away from the busyness of life and want to develop deeper relationships with CEBC men, this event is strongly recommended. Taking place at Rough Acres Ranch (#misnomer!) with primarily our CEBC body, this event promises to leave you feeling refreshed and energized. We look forward to having you there!
ALL CHURCH SERVICE PROJECT will be Saturday March 29th; mark your calendar. More details to come.
WELCOME CARDS - are located at the Welcome Table on the patio or in the acrylic containers on the wall in the back of the sanctuary. Please take one and fill it out if you’d like a call from a pastor, if you have a prayer request, or if you’d like to be added to our email list, etc. Once filled out, put the cards in one of the white offering boxes on the wall in the sanctuary. You can also sign up and share a prayer request on-line at clairemontemmanuel.com.
OFFICE HOLIDAY HOURS - The church office will be closed December 24th - January 1st, it will be open January 2nd and 3rd. Regular office hours will resume the week of January 6th.
ANGEL TREE WRAP – The Angel Tree team gives thanks to God and to everyone who participated in the 2024 Angel Tree and Foster Child outreach. We demonstrated God’s love to 20 families with 50 children. If you would like to participate in the Angel Tree ministry throughout the year, please contact Paul Champlin at 619-209-1237 or Jeanie Presley at 619-997-2079. We're looking forward to next year when we can bless more families and children in the name of Jesus. Praise and thanks to God for this great ministry and for your support.
LIVING WATERS/WE SEE YOU MINISTRY - is in need of warm clothes and blankets for our homeless guests. Items can be dropped off anytime at 4347 Mt Henry Ave or given to Dale or Jeanie Presley at church.
LIVING WATERS/FOSTER CLOSET is in need of 4-5T clothing new or used, larger diapers (Sizes 3-6) and wipes. Thank you for all who support this ministry as so many families have been blessed.
VETERANS – Gary Anderson is heading up our ministry to veterans. If you have any questions, comments, or ideas, contact Gary at 858-769-6911 or atcrazygrandpa5x@yahoo.com.
LIVING WATERS IMPORTANT NOTICE – Living Waters can no longer accept adult clothing donations. ‘We See You’ was unable to renew their lease with PB Presbyterian Church and are seeking a new location; prayers appreciated. Until a new location is identified we cannot accept donations.
SILENT VOICES’ – Sharon Pearce has been a certified Natural Family Planning (NFP) instructor for 20 years. If you would like to learn more about this or if you have any questions, contact Sharon at 619-851-5336 or sharonpearce2005@yahoo.com.
DEPLOYED – We currently have one of our young men who is deployed. Please prayfor Ian Rosse (Navy), Andrew VanKuren (Navy). Mike Manoogian just returned. Let Pastor Kenny know of any other members or regular attenders who are deployed or away temporarily and please pray for them.
PRAYER AND ENCOURAGEMENT – If you’re aware of people who are sick or stuck at home or just lonely (especially during this time of year), pray for them and give them a call. Many of them have been contacted by you in the past and been so encouraged! Will you pick someone from our church family to especially pray for this week and please call them or drop them a note to let them know you love them and are praying for them. If you’d like some ideas of who you could reach out to, contact Pastor Kenny.
GIVING – Some have asked if they can donate stocks and bonds to the church. You can and if you are interested talk to Jessica Mohr in the office.
STUDENTS LOOKING FOR RIDES TO CHURCH – Two international students (one male, one female) who live in the UCSD area are looking for rides to church. If you’re able to help out contact Pastor Kenny.
OTHER GUY CONNECTIONS – Men, pick one of these groups and join in – especially this summer!
1. Men’s golf group - Mark Ritter (541-219-9184). Going again soon!
2. Inductive Bible Study method - David Wu (619-913-3021) Saturdays 730-8:30AM
3. Men’s Surf / Breakfast club - Mike Uyboco (619-770-0348) Wednesday mornings 5:30AM.
4. Running Club - Charles Yin (619-581-0073) currently forming, will determine day/time.
5. Tuesday morning Bible study, 6:30AM. Paul Champlain (619-209-1237)
6. Thursday morning book club, 6:30AM. Paul Champlain (619-209-1237)
7. Thursday “Happy Hour”. Bay Hill Tavern. 5PM. Todd Simpson (858-717-2939)
8. Saturday Morning Men’s Prayer Breakfast. Saturday morning - except for the 1st Saturday of the month. Fellowship Hall, 7AM. Byron Harrold (619-890-4393)
9. Grace Book Club. CEBC. Bruce Payne, (858-220-4865)
10. Guys Game Saturdays. Pickle Ball, etc. 1st and 3rd Saturday mornings of each month, following the men’s prayer breakfast Russ VandeVegte 619-990-9643 or Dan Cassels (619-972-5976).
ALL WOMEN – are invited to a dedicated time of prayer each week on Thursdays at Tracy Rickert’s home at 1:45PM. Contact Tracy for more information at 619-376-0553.
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!!
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. Small 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! Eventually this will fall to Aaron Passmore, however for now, call or text Pastor Aaron (If you’re interested in a women’s group, contact Lois Taylor at the church office.
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.
INTERNSHIPS – Two college students who anticipate being here this coming summer with CRU are looking for internships – one in the area of supply chain and another in graphic design. If you are aware of paid internships in one of these areas, please contact Pastor Kenny.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | JOB OPENINGS | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
Ministry Opportunities
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!
SUNDAY AM BOOK TABLE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED – If you love books and talking to people, consider being at the book table to talk about books as a possible ministry. We are starting to sell some books (recommended by the Overseers) at the book table and so this volunteer opportunity would also involve taking money and making change.
AV MINISTRY – Men and women! If you are looking for a ministry and (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. We have recently lost a couple folks who have moved away and are looking for some others to help in this area!
COFFEE MINISTRY – Do you love coffee, donuts, and people? We would love for you to join us in serving Sunday mornings, once a month, with the coffee ministry. Please contact John Kirk at john.f.kirk@gmail.com or 858-531-3695.
AWANA HELPERS NEEDED – We still need a few more dedicated volunteers to listen to amazing children recite their Bible verses on Wednesday nights. Contact Timothy Hulbert to volunteer or for more information (619-247-8738 or timothy.l.hulbert1@navy.mil).
AWANA MEAL PREP TEAM – is in need of additional volunteers. Please contact Lois Taylor or Jeanie Presley.
NEED PRAYER? MINISTRY – Community outreach prayer tent opportunity. For the past months on Monday evenings from 4-6PM (with the time change) in the upper parking lot, you may have seen a blue easy-up with “Need prayer?” signs 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 619-972-5976.
CHILDREN MINISTRY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES – There are opportunities for you to get involved in Children’s Ministry on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights! Contact our Children’s Ministry Director, Susan Robinson at 619-985-5188 or SusanAnnRobinson@gmail.com to get more information.
THE ARK
Sunday Mornings from 10:05-12:05 with Babies through Preschool Age
Baby Room Helper (1 Sunday per month) — Care for babies
Preschool Room Assistant (1 Sunday per month) — Assist with classroom activities while the teacher leads the lesson
Special Needs Helper (2 Sundays per month) — Assist a child with special needs
THE HARBOR
Sunday Mornings from 10:05-12:05 with Kindergarten through 5th Grade
Classroom Assistant (1 Sunday per month) — Assist with classroom activities while the teacher leads the lesson
Worship Leader (1 Sunday per month •10:30-11:00am) — Lead 2-3 songs during large group worship
AWANA
Wednesday Nights from 6-8pm
Puggles — 2–3-year-olds (NEW!)
Cubbies — 3–5-year-olds
Sparks — Kindergarten-2nd Grade
T & T — 3rd-5th Grade
MOTHERS MINISTRY OPPORTUNITY – Margaret Lowe has been in touch with a single mother who just had twins and would love any help or maybe just a good conversation on the phone. If you’re interested in helping, contact Margaret at 619-780-4166.
LIVING WATERS/FOSTER CLOSET – is in need of non-perishable food items for families in need. Items can be dropped off at 4347 Mount Henry Ave anytime or brought to Jeanie or Dale Presley at church.
LIVING WATERS/STRONG FAMILIES MINISTRY – We are seeking CEBC members who have a heart to help kinship/foster/adoptive families in and around Clairemont. Help includes shopping for particular items (funds reimbursement available), meeting with family to deliver items, preparing meals to drop off, text/call to family as support and prayer requests. If any of this interests you please contact jeanie.presley@gmail.com or 619-997-2079.
WRITE A LETTER/CARD – Some of our senior would LOVE to hear from you. It doesn’t need to be long – just short and sweet – these folks would be ministered to when they find out you’re thinking of them:
Gloria Anderson, Villa Lorena, 14640 Via Fiesta, San Diego, CA 92127
Ruth Anderson, 2340 4th Ave. #211, San Diego, CA 92101 (NOTE NEW ADDRESS)
Dave Costantino, 4560 Miami Way, San Diego, CA 92117
Dean and Dona Fitzgerald, 2340 4th Ave 12, San Diego, CA 92108
Mary Gibsen, 8515 Costa Verde Blvd 1206, San Diego, CA 92122
Diane Hebert, 1543 Galveston St, San Diego, CA 92110
Don and Sharon Jackson, 2429 Pine St, San Diego, CA 92103
Gwen Soderberg, 4473 Charger Blvd., San Diego, CA 92117
Ken and JoAnn Wadleigh, 4806 Clairemont Dr, San Diego, CA 92117
If you know of others to add here, please text names and addresses to Pastor Kenny.
SILENT VOICES – Although they do not currently have a table on the patio, we have the opportunity to help restock the Silent Voices pantry with baby supplies (diapers, blankets, baby wipes, personal hygiene items, clothing, etc.). Silent Voices is a Christian pro-life pregnancy center founded and run by member Sharon Pearce, that provides life-affirming alternatives to abortion, and support to mothers and babies in our community who need help. If you have any questions about the ministry outreach, please contact Sharon Pearce (619-851-5336) or Paul Champlin (619-209-1237).
GREETING AND USHERING – If you are interested in greeting and ushering, talk to Timothy Hulbert (first service) or Justin Hoech (second service).
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | JOB OPENINGS | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
2024 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.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | JOB OPENINGS | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
HOUSING
MARRIED MOM WITH TWO CHILDREN – has a room to rent to a female. If you’re interested, contact Pastor Kenny.
MISSIONARIES DON AND MARGARET LOWE – are looking for housing for the April-July 2025 time frame. If you are aware of anything, please contact the Lowe’s or Pastor Nathan.
YOUNG CAREER GAL LOOKING FOR FEMALE ROOMMATE – to move into a two bed / two bath condo near the church in mid-November. If interested contact Valentina at 509-559-9821.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | JOB OPENINGS | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
JOB OPENINGS
LOOKING FOR JOBS – Several CEBC members are looking for jobs. If you happen to have a job or your business is looking for someone, let me know and I can pass it on if appropriate.
RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNER SEEKS DOG SITTING JOB – Stay in the home or not. Must bring her small service dog, Snickers. Lives in Clairemont. Great references. Call Sheri Allen 619-972-2656 or SheridanLane16@gmail.com.
CAREGIVER JOB – Looking for a caregiver/housekeeper in Bay Park. Must be female, physically fit. Please call Sheri Allen 619-972-2656.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | NEW MEMBER TESTIMONIES | JOB OPENINGS | MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES