NOV 15th Devotional and Announcements
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
Dear family and friends,
If you’ve never read Eric Metaxas’ biography about Dietrich Bonhoeffer, it’s really worth it. In fact, this is the book that inspired a NYC couple to spend at least $10 million of their own money to do some preliminary work, like hire a scriptwriter, Todd Komarnicki, to make it into a movie.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer was a German pastor, theologian, and courageous opponent of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime. Born in 1906 to an accomplished and intellectual family, Bonhoeffer pursued theology with a passion for understanding how faith informs real-life decisions. His groundbreaking works, such as The Cost of Discipleship and Ethics, reflect his commitment to living out the teachings of Christ, no matter the cost.
During Hitler’s rise to power, Bonhoeffer was an outspoken critic of the regime’s oppressive policies, particularly its treatment of Jews. He became a key figure in the Confessing Church, a movement opposing the Nazification of German Protestantism. Bonhoeffer’s faith compelled him to move beyond words to action, and he joined the resistance, becoming involved in a conspiracy to assassinate Hitler. If you remember the 2008 movie, Valkyrie, starring Tom Cruise, that is the plot Bonhoeffer was involved in. Arrested in 1943, Bonhoeffer spent two years in prison, writing letters and reflections that continue to inspire Christians worldwide. In April 1945, just weeks before the war ended, he was executed at Flossenbürg concentration camp, leaving behind a legacy of faith, courage, and sacrifice.
This week, the film Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. hits theaters, bringing his remarkable story to life. Cathy and I were able to see a special preview showing of this film and it is very good. It portrays Bonhoeffer’s inner struggles and his unshakable faith as he wrestled with the moral issues of standing against evil. In the context of a powerful story, the movie sheds light on the cost of discipleship and the strength found in unwavering convictions. I would encourage you to see this inspiring portrayal of one man’s journey to follow Christ in the darkest of times. Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. is a great portrayal of a Christian grappling with how faith intersects with justice and moral courage. Find showtimes and experience the life of a true modern-day hero.
In preparation for this Sunday please read Luke 4:38-44.
Please note, at the close of this letter, you will find:
· End of life planning
· An opportunity to give to Hurricane disaster relief
CLAIREMONT EMMANUEL UPCOMING CHRISTMAS SEASON DATES TO REMEMBER
(Even if these events don’t directly concern you, PLEASE PRAY for them!!!)
Every Wednesday – AWANA needs volunteers,and the EMMANUEL CHOIR needs men and women voices!!
December 1 (5-7:30PM) in Fellowship Hall – Family Christmas PJ Party
December 6 (6:30-8:30PM) in Fellowship Hall – Women’s annual Christmas event
December 8 (9AM, 10:30AM, 7PM) – Christmas Musical (Come back for the evening and bring a friend!)
December 24 (3:30PM, 5:15PM) – Christmas Eve Services
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD (OCC)!!! – Some of the 350 green and red Operation Christmas Child (OCC) shoeboxes are still left for members and regular attenders of CEBC. OCC partners with local churches around the world to provide shoeboxes filled with small toys, hygiene items, and school supplies as a means of reaching out to children around the world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. Shoeboxes will be available thru this Sunday (November 10th). All shoeboxes need to be returned to the Living Water’s table by THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH. Please consider being a part of this ministry as it shows God’s love in a tangible way to children in need around the world. If you should have any questions about the ministry or how you can participate, please contact Paul Champlin at 619-209-1237.
EMMANUEL KIDS FAMILY CHRISTMAS PARTY – You are invited to join us for our FAMILY ADVENT KICK-OFF EVENT on Sunday, December 1st at 5pm. Every family will take home our 2024 EMMANUEL KIDS ORNAMENT and a copy of the ADVENT BOOK, Family Advent Devotional: Celebrate Together, by Matt & Lauren Chandler just for attending! Pastor Aaron will lead us through the first day of the devotional together and DINNER will be provided. After dinner and the advent presentation we will open our cookies and HOT COCOA BAR and watch the movie “THE STAR”! You are welcome to wear your PAJAMAS and slippers and bring some cozy items for the movie. The most festive pajamas will win a prize!
ANGEL TREE IS COMING. ANGEL TREE IS COMING!!! – It’s that time of the year again as CEBC will be participating in the Angel Tree ministry of Prison Fellowship. In addition, we will be partnering with Restoration 225 which is a local Christian organization that supports children in the foster care system. You can help change a life of a child by participating in our Angel Tree ministry outreach. Angels will be available starting Sunday, December 1. If you should have any questions about the ministry or how you can participate, please contact Paul Champlin at (619)-209-1237.
EMMANUEL CHOIR - Come join the choir! Rehearsals continue Wednesdays at 7PM in The Upper Room. The choir serves almost every week in first service but will also begin preparing right away for our Christmas concerts on December 8. The concerts will take place in both Sunday morning services as well as an evening performance. If you would like to join the choir but would like to meet with Pastor Nathan for best placement within the group, please email him at nathan.rson@gmail.com. Or, you are welcome to come on Wednesday evening and jump right in!
PAT ROSENBERGER – Long-time member Pat Rosenberger went home to be with the Lord this past week (November 11). Any service information will be forthcoming.
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!
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 or Jeanie Presley.
RE|ENGAGE FOR THIS SPRING - Our spring semester of Re|Engage is taking new sign-ups: Re|Engage is a discipleship-based enrichment for every marriage - the healthy and the struggling. However you rate your marriage, Re|Engage helps you take it to the next level. This ministry is designed to give couples a safe place to move toward oneness, through small groups, teaching, and stories of hope. You can register at the table, outside on the patio.
TESTIMONY: “Re|Engage helps you reset your priorities and strengthen your marriage using biblical principles. This is the way God intended for us to live with our partners. Great course and fellowship with other couples. Highly recommend it!” — Bruny and Jason Jolly
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.
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
“CHURCH MEMBERSHIP” BOOK BY JONATHAN LEEMAN - is part of the “9 Marks: Building Healthy Churches” series. This book retails on Amazon for $9.09 but we are selling copies of the book for $5 at our book table (or welcome table). This does not replace the membership class we offer every other month but is a great supplement and is a book that your Overseers and Deacons have recently read and discussed together. Recent guest speaker, Mark Dever, is the publisher behind the “9 Marks” books.
BOOKS FOR SALE THIS SUNDAY - We have three books on our book table that we recommend you to buy and read as well as other books for free. One on-going book we would love for everyone to read: “Church Membership” by Jonathan Leeman ($5); and one book that is still available from the 2-week series Pastor Kenny did recently: “The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert” by Rosario Butterfield ($10). The church is underwriting some of the costs of these books.
INTERNSHIPS – Two college students 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.
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.
LIVING WATERS FOSTER CLOSET - Thank you for your generosity. We are currently in need of the following items: wipes and clothing for Boys/Girls in sizes 4-5. Donations can be brought to Presley family at church or dropped off at the closet at 4347 Mt. Henry Ave, San Diego, CA 92117. If you have any questions, contact Jeanie.presley@gmail.com or 619-997-2079.
STRONG FAMILIES MINISTRY is getting ready for our Handmade Christmas Gifts event in Fellowship Hall on Saturday Dec 14th from 10am-1pm. We are in need of volunteers and the following items: Clean recycled Talenti Gelato containers and essential oils of various flavors. If you can help please contact jeanie.presley@gmail.com or 619-997-2079.
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.
CLAIREMONT EMMANUEL VETERANS GROUP - Are you a Vet of any branch of military service? If so, please contact Dana Taylor at danaretired@gmail.com or 760-533-1447 to sign up for our newsletter and find out about upcoming events. Visit their table on the patio this week.
DEPLOYED - We currently have several of our young men who are deployed. Please pray for Mike Manoogian (Navy). 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, pray for them and give them a call. Many of them have been contacted by you 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.
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 the white offering boxes on the wall in the sanctuary. You can also sign up and share a prayer request on-line at www.clairemontemmanuel.com.
END-OF-LIFE PLANNING - If you have not yet completed the end-of-life planning (go to the end of this email), no matter what your age, you are encouraged to do this and to email a copy to the church (and to your spouse or a close friend if you’re single).
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.
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.
CAR FOR SALE - Are you or someone you know in need of a car for their family or child which is reasonable priced at $6,000 with 99,000 miles. I am the only owner and it’s 2013 Hyundai Sonata. Contact Kimberly at (858) 228-0196.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
Other Announcements
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).
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!
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 Kenny (619-508-3785) or Sean Hibbs (619-920-4196). If you’re interested in a women’s group, contact Lois Taylor at the church office.
FIRST SERVICE FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN - The Family Room near the sanctuary bathrooms is for families with kiddos that are having a hard time sitting through service that day. It will be closed at the beginning of each service. Space is limited. Please begin in the sanctuary and move to the Family Room only if your child needs consoling or becomes a distraction to others. Remember, we are a family, and a little noise can be OK, but we do want to minimize distractions. (We understand it’s a fine line.) Once in the family room, please whisper to your children so those parents present can listen to the sermon. Also . . . you are always welcome to attend second service (preferable! . . . but we know that not always possible) and bring your children to the Ark or the Harbor for the kids program! (There is an area for nursing children off the women’s restroom.)
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.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
Other Ministry Opportunities
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, 6969 Bacontree Way, San Diego, CA 92111
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 | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
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 | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
HOUSING
MARRIED MOM WITH TWO CHILDREN - has a room to rent. If you’re interested, contact Pastor Kenny.
SINGLE GUY LOOKING FOR A ROOM TO RENT - If you have a room to rent, contact Pastor Kenny.
SINGLE GAL WITH SMALL DOG - Is looking for a room to share or rent.
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.
RETIRED COUPLE AT CHURCH - are looking for a place to rent in the general area around the church. If you’re aware of a place – home or apartment (single story) – talk to Pastor Kenny.
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 | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
JOB OPENINGS
LOOKING FOR JOBS - Several folks are looking for jobs or to change 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.
JOB/HOUSING LEADS - CEBC has been sponsoring a man in recovery on will be graduating his program Sept 4th. He needs a job and place to stay. Any leads are greatly appreciated.
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 | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
END OF LIFE PLANNING
IF YOU HAVEN’T DONE THIS, PLEASE PRINT THIS UP AND GIVE A COPY TO YOUR SPOUSE AND A COPY TO THE CHURCH OFFICE
Planning for the end of life involves several important considerations to ensure that your wishes are honored and that your loved ones are supported. Here are some key questions to think about:
1. Legal and Financial Arrangements:
- Will and Estate Planning:
- Have you created a will? Where is it located, and is it up to date?
- Have you appointed an executor for your estate?
- Do you have a power of attorney designated for financial and medical decisions?
- Are your beneficiaries for insurance policies and retirement accounts current?
- Advance Directives:
- Do you have a living will or advance directive that outlines your medical wishes?
- Have you discussed your wishes with your healthcare proxy or power of attorney?
- Funeral Expenses:
- Have you made arrangements for covering funeral/burial costs?
- Are there any specific financial instructions for your estate regarding funeral expenses?
2. Personal Wishes:
- Eulogy and Memorial:
- What would you like to be said about you in your eulogy?
- Are there specific people you want to deliver your eulogy or speak at your memorial?
- Funeral and Memorial Service:
- Do you prefer a burial, cremation, or another form of disposition?
- Where would you like your funeral or memorial service to be held?
-Are there specific verses you’d like read or spoken on at your service?
- Are there songs, readings, or poems you want included?
3. Communicating with Loved Ones:
- Final Letters or Messages:
- Do you want to write letters or record messages for loved ones?
- How will these be delivered, and who should receive them?
- Digital Legacy:
- Have you made arrangements for your online accounts and digital assets?
- Do you have instructions for your social media profiles or email accounts?
4. Organ Donation and Body Donation:
- Organ Donation:
- Do you want to be an organ donor? Is this documented and communicated?
- Body Donation:
- Would you consider donating your body to science, and have you made arrangements for this?
5. Practical Considerations:
- Access to Important Documents:
- Have you organized and informed someone about the location of important documents (e.g., will, insurance policies, deeds)?
- Passwords and Security:
- Have you documented important passwords or set up a way for someone to access necessary accounts after your passing?
- Pets:
- Have you made arrangements for the care of any pets?
Considering these questions in advance can help ensure that your wishes are carried out and can provide clarity and comfort to your loved ones during a difficult time.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
DISASTER RELIEF
Like you, my heart breaks for the people in the south (especially in Florida and Georgia) and along the east coast and inland who are going through Hurricane Helene and facing having to rebuild when they just did that a little more than a year ago (especially in Florida). Why?
Why does God in His goodness allow this to happen? I suppose we shouldn’t be surprised since the Fall of man in Genesis 3, all creation is impacted and has resulted in what Paul describes as this in Romans8:19-22, “For all creation is waiting eagerly for that future day when God will reveal who his children really are. 20 Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, 21 the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. 22 For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.”
There are events even more extreme than this week’s hurricane – like the flood in Genesis 6 – and yet even there, we see God demonstrating His justice and mercy. And think of the account of Job and all he went through and how God used it to refine Job’s faith.
God is indeed sovereign over nature. Remember Jesus calmed the storm in Mark 4. As we’ve been speaking (last week and this) about John the Baptist preaching on repentance . . . Jesus explained in Luke 13:4, 5, when responding to a question about why people died when a building collapsed on them: “And what about the eighteen people who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them? Were they the worst sinners in Jerusalem? 5 No, and I tell you again that unless you repent, you will perish, too.”
We see our life and the lives of others from our limited and finite point of view. God’s perspective is so much bigger, and the Bible teaches that He does use even the bad things that happen in our lives for His ultimate glory and for our good. This is true: “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them” (Romans 8:28).
Yes, we go through suffering, but God is using it to shape us to be more like His Son! James writes in James 1: “Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. 3 For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. 4 So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”
So, what do we do when faced with a natural disaster? We are called to act with compassion and generosity. At Clairemont Emmanuel, we are committed to sending any donations you want to give to where they can be used most effectively to assist those affected. In the past we’ve given to help rebuild churches that are ministering to their own people. By giving and serving, we embody Christ’s love and mercy in our broken world. Be sure to write on the memo line “Disaster Relief.”
This hurricane may challenge us to question God’s goodness. However, Scripture reassures us of His sovereignty and purpose. We’re invited to trust Him and respond with love and action to those in need.
ANNOUNCEMENT INDEX
MESSAGE FROM PASTOR KENNY | HIGHLIGHTED ANNOUNCEMENTS | JOB OPENINGS | OTHER ANNOUNCEMENTS | OTHER MINISTRY OPPORTUNITIES | CLASS SCHEDULE | HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES | END OF LIFE PLANNING | DISASTER RELIEF | 2024 ELECTION
2024 Election
I’ve written this before but felt it was very important to share again today. I hope that you’re in prayer for all of our elected officials and also for this upcoming election. 1 Timothy 2:1, 2 says, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
So, other than praying for our leaders, what should be the role of Christians when it comes to participating in government and specifically, voting?
Voting is the privilege and duty of Americans. As Christians we should be the best of citizens. There is no reason for us not to be registered and to make our voices known. Romans 13 is about that subject and verse 1 begins the chapter in this way: “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
As Christians, we have the opportunity to vote for those who stand for the policies that best represent biblical values. So, get informed! You can look up Christian voting guides on-line that don’t tell you how to vote but inform you about where different candidates stand on a variety of issues or what various propositions are for or against.
There are other helpful websites, but this is a great place to go to get informed:
https://www.christianvoterguide.com/states/west-region/california/
Some Christians choose not to vote and justify it by saying that they are citizens of the Kingdom and can’t be bothered by earthly politics. In the last presidential election, some Christians said they didn’t vote because they didn’t like either candidate. What they may be missing is that by not voting, they are, in a very real way, voting.
In the last presidential election – when more people vote than in off-presidential years – only 56.8% of those who could vote, did vote. That means that 100 million people who could have voted did not vote in 2020. I hope that Christians voted at a higher percentage than the general population, but I don’t know.
How you vote is personal. Assuming that you’re registered to vote, educate yourself on election issues (see above) and look for candidates whose stances on these issues are most supportive of Biblical values, and also consider the propositions for us to vote on in a biblical way.
If you’d like to see where the candidates stand on issues that Christians should care about, go to https://decisionmagazine.com/americas-future-in-the-balance/.
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