Today was the Feast of Saint James which supersedes the Eighth Sunday after Trinity Sunday. Temperatures were about perfect if you like warm, sunrise temperature on Mount Olympus was 63°F under bright blue skies. By the time church ended, we were at 82°F. Even though there were a large number of people on travel (for us at any rate), we managed to end up with 13 people present for the service.
Gathering Songs
Father Ironhand and Jack Arnold played today’s gathering songs, which were:
• In Christ Alone
• I sing a song of the saints of God
• Offering
• My heart's desire
Gathering songs are an Anglican tradition from Africa where people don’t care much for time and have to walk to church. This way we can sing some more contemporary songs with guitars and people can make their way in to church without being “late.” Your Beadle would point out that Anglicans have a long tradition of JITC, that would be Just In Time Church attendance. Anyway, as you can see, we play the songs for a number of reasons. Maybe the most important reason is that not only do our guitarists like the songs, but so do our parish members!
Once again, the gathering songs did their magic. When they started playing we numbered 11, by the time the service ended, we had 13!
Pre-Service Class
For today’s pre-service class, Father Acker continued on with the Book of Luke, Chapter Three, Verse 23. Luke takes the time to trace Jesus’ human lineage not just back to David, but all the way to Adam. This lineage may seem of little import to us today, but it was of immense import to those of his time. So, take time to read it:
21 Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened,
22 And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.
23 And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli,
24 Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi, which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which was the son of Joseph,
25 Which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge,
26 Which was the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Juda,
27 Which was the son of Joanna, which was the son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri,
28 Which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of Er,
29 Which was the son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer, which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi,
30 Which was the son of Simeon, which was the son of Juda, which was the son of Joseph, which was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim,
31 Which was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the son of David,
32 Which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of Obed, which was the son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon, which was the son of Naasson,
33 Which was the son of Aminadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom, which was the son of Phares, which was the son of Juda,
34 Which was the son of Jacob, which was the son of Isaac, which was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thara, which was the son of Nachor,
35 Which was the son of Saruch, which was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala,
36 Which was the son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of Lamech,
37 Which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of Maleleel, which was the son of Cainan,
38 Which was the son of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam, which was the son of God.
Propers
Each Sunday there are Propers: special prayers and readings from the Bible. There is a Collect for the Day; that is a single thought prayer, most written either before the re-founding of the Church of England in the 1540s or written by Bishop Thomas Cranmer, the first Archbishop of Canterbury after the re-founding.
The Collect for the Day is to be read on Sunday and during Morning and Evening Prayer until the next Sunday. If you have a hard time remembering, “Do I read the Collect from last Sunday or next Sunday during the week?” Remember Sunday is the first day of the week. There are also two Bible readings, the Epistle and the Gospel. While they are “lessons”, they are not the First Lesson and the Second Lesson, they are the Epistle and the Gospel. The Epistle is normally a reading from one of the various Epistles, or letters, in the New Testament. The Gospel is a reading from one of the Holy Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Collect is said by the priest as a prayer, the Epistle can be read by either a designated reader (as we do in our church) or by one of the priests and the Holy Gospel, which during the service in our church is read by an ordained minister.
The propers are the same each year, except if a Red Letter Feast, that is one with propers in the prayerbook, falls on a Sunday, then those propers are to be read instead, except in a White Season, where it is put off. Red Letter Feasts, so called because in the Altar Prayerbooks the titles are in red, are special days. Most of the Red Letter Feasts are dedicated to early saints instrumental in the development of the church, others to special events. Some days are particularly special and the Collect for that day is to be used for an octave (eight days) or an entire season, like Advent or Lent.
Saint James the Apostle.
[July 25.]
The Collect.
GRANT, O merciful God, that, as thine holy Apostle Saint James, leaving his father and all that he had, without delay was obedient unto the calling of thy Son Jesus Christ, and followed him; so we, forsaking all worldly and carnal affections, may be evermore ready to follow thy holy commandments; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Collect for the Eighth Sunday after Trinity follows:
Eighth Sunday after Trinity.
The Collect.
O GOD, whose never-failing providence ordereth all things both in heaven and earth; We humbly beseech thee to put away from us all hurtful things, and to give us those things which are profitable for us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Alice Acker read the Epistle, which was written in the Acts of the Apostles beginning at the Twenty-Seventh Verse of the Sixth Chapter.
IN these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Cæsar. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judæa: which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also.
Today’s Gospel was written in the Twentieth Chapter of the Gospel according to Saint Matthew beginning at the Twentieth Verse.
THEN came to him the mother of Zebedee’s children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father. And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; and whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Sermon - Set Free
Father Acker provided a summary of today’s sermon so you can see what he was trying to get across:
Today's Message: God’s Measure of Success
I remember many Septembers growing up. By mid-summer I was excited about getting back to school.
I’d be thinking this is going to be a great year. I tell everyone about what I did during the summer. Yes, I would be looking to a great year and successful year ahead.
Many years I expected to write about “What I did this summer.” But often the teachers would not have me write about “What I did this summer,” but “What I learned this summer.” Suddenly the air was out of the sail, the kite was plummeting toward the ground, the pool float was sinking and I was going down. I knew what I did this summer, but what I learned? It was like the summer went down in flames and looking into my brain it was like an empty void.
I know teachers are interested in learning, but it wasn’t the focus of my summers. And I suspect not many other kids as well. What seemed like the good start on a new school year with a successful summer seemed less that way struggling over a “What I learned…”
During this summer we’ve been taking a look at Proverbs, a father’s advice to his son about being successful in life. Solomon didn’t want his son to learn the hard way and make all the mistakes and take all the dead-ends he had taken in life. Solomon wanted to give his son a real measure for success; A true definition of success that would bring true happiness and fulfillment to his life.
True Definition of success
I had some teachers measuring my success by what I learned. I’m sure you have experienced people around you measuring success by position, power, and wealth. For Christians a true definition of success has to God’s measure of success.
For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? Matthew 16.26
One definition of success for the Christian is “Living in obedience to God.” If you are asking God, “What do you want me to do? Where do you want me to be? How can I help you with your plan?,” then you are a success. Your life is being lived in reference to the life of God. If you try to obey what God in the things he is asking and leading, you are a success. You might not complete or get things right in the process, but success in in your obedience to God.
For the Christian what matters most is what matters to God. As friends of Jesus, rather than just servants, we have a stake and interest in God’s plan and the work into which God asks us to participate. While we may get an educational degree, have position, power, and wealth--or not--what matters is your relationship, your obedience to God. Our obedience goes beyond being God’s servants to having a stake in God’s plan of salvation for all people.
Success is in the present
All too often I allow myself to see success as a future destination. “One day I’ll be successful.” It is easy to see success as some destination down the road and someplace in the future. But if “obedience to God” is success, then it is about today, here and now.
Living a God-centered, a life lived in obedience to God, is about the present. When we are told to “pick up our cross daily” and follow Jesus, it isn’t suggesting that we put it off to another day.
Our celebration of James the Apostle today is about a man who obeyed Jesus’ call. He left the position, power, and wealth of his life for the new life lived in obedience to God. And just as James was the first of the apostles martyred the world may not have count his life as a success, the measure of our success is in our obedience to God.
Success in God giving us direction
If you are anything like me, you have goals you plan to achieve. I know that I want to achieve things, to get to some thing, some place, some goal. Those things, those places, and those goals can be things that I think are godly. But along the way to achieving those goals, I notice something is missing. The success seems to evaporate. So we need to look again at our obedience, and how we allow God to lead us.
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. Romans 8.14
God doesn’t give you the whole plan at the start. Instead God leads us through our present time, place and circumstance by his Holy Spirit dwelling in us to comfort and guide us. So we have to keep asking the questions of God, “Is there where you want me? Is this what you want me to do? Is this your will for me today?”
You can be successful today and everyday you’re life has God at the center, and living in obedience to God. When we drift or wander away from that success, that God-center, we need to turn back to God. Get myself back to God is at the center. Asking again, “God, is there anything else you want me to do? Am I missing something? Am I where you want me to be?
Success brings the peace of God
When I’m doing what God wants me to do, and when I’m where God wants me to be, then the peace of God that passes all understanding fills my life. No matter what my bank balance, no matter what is on my report card, no matter how cool my car, bike, or skateboard, no matter what the power and position, and achieving goals or not, success is obedience to God.
In contrast, if you are in rebellion to God, in willful disobedience to God, you find your life in pieces instead of peace. The things of the world, the things this world holds to be of value, are of little account in terms of the Kingdom of God and in God’s eyes.
In comparison to obedience these other things have nothing to do with truly being successful.
Solomon wanted his son to know that success is found in obedience to God. “I have and can give you wealth, position, and power--I have it all. But I can’t give you Obedience to God. If you’re going to truly be successful, I can only point the way.”
God wants you to be a success, not at some future date, not limited by your past and your earlier choices. Our obedience is in the present, now, today. God wants you to be a success and have the peace that passes all understanding in Jesus.
New Nametags
We had no new nametags today. Dru Arnold’s sister Jacquie Propps visited us this Sunday from Union City, California.
Birthdays and Anniversaries
We had no reported birthdays or anniversaries today.
After Church Hospitality
Jan Macauley brought snacks today, and lovely they were; double chocolate zucchini cookies, some form of red cookie bar that your Beadle did not partake of, the Aloha Cheese ball, with crackers, that was gone in short order, great hulking cherries and wonderful dried apple slices that looked for all the world like cucumber chips and were the BEST!
After church goodies providers as currently signed up:
Date Name
1 August 2010 Dru Arnold
8 August 2010 Alice Acker
15 August 2010 Opportunity Available
People in our Prayers - http://www.blessedtrinityprayerteam.blogspot.com/
Prayer is an extremely important activity.
It is not that God knows not our needs, for He surely does. Yet, Jesus commanded us to ask God for those same needs. In addition to the obvious of asking God for help, offering thanksgiving and the like, prayer helps us focus our thoughts on how we might do God's work.
The Prayer Team of the Alpine Anglican Church of the Blessed Trinity was established to help our members and fellow Christians pray for those in need and to give thanks as well for the blessings we have been granted.
Who can be on the list?
Do I have to be a member of the Blessed Trinity Church to be prayed for? No! The only qualification to be on the list is that you want our prayer team to pray for you. We are Christians and are happy to pray for you, no matter who you are. If you want help from God, you are our kind of people.
What is the commitment from the prayer team?
Each member of the team will pray for the desired outcome at least once per day.
How do I get myself or someone else on the prayer list?
You can email one of the prayer team leaders: Greg - gnchase@cox.net or Dru - dru@descansorodents.com, or call the church office at (619) 722-1772 or fill out a prayer card at church.
What should I ask for?
Depends on what you want. Some people merely want God to be asked to heal their ills and be mentioned by their first name, others want a specific outcome and / or have more of their personal information known to the team. Ask for what you want. It is your desire and need for prayer the team is attempting to meet. For typical examples, see the list below.
Updating the Team
If you are on our prayer list, or if you have submitted a person that you have asked us to pray for, please update one of the team members or Father Acker in person, by telephone or email. It helps to be able to pray specifically for these individuals including their specific needs; plus if they get better, it is nice to give thanks!
Please note on the yellow (maybe green or orange, if you get an old one) cards at church, you can ask that those to be prayed for have their names disseminated to the "prayer team". Those names will be said in church and appear here. Or, you can ask their names and purpose be kept confidential, then only Father Acker will pray for them.
Prayer List Notice – If you have someone on the prayer list and their needs have changed, please let us know. We are loathe to just stop praying, yet some of the entries are a bit long in the tooth. We don’t mind praying, at all. We just want to be praying for what is needed!
Anniversary
Aaron and Traci celebrated their 14th anniversary without us today.
Birthday
Tim Macauley celebrated his 68th birthday with us today.
Betty Macauley celebrated her 90th birthday two weeks ago.
Moving
Alan, and his son Kenny, Parker moved to Mississippi for Alan’s job. Please pray they will make a good place for themselves there and adapt to their new surroundings in a positive manner.
Travel
Greg is on travel this week.
Alan is on travel this week.
Don, Sandy and Nick are on travel for the next three weeks.
Traci and Warren are on travel for the next few weeks.
Ryan is on travel throughout Southeast Asia until an undetermined time in the future. He is in Korea, then China and is keeping his parents updated.
Departed
Wanda Roth fell from her horse on Saturday 24 July 2010, before she put on her helmet and sustained a head injury. She passed away the following evening. Please pray for the repose of her soul and for her family and friends who remain here on earth and miss her.
Rocky Laws passed away Tuesday 6 July 2010, as the apparent result of a seizure while riding his bicycle. Please pray for his wife Louise that she might let God carry all her sorrow and worry while she works towards adapting to life here on earth without Rocky. The pair had been inseparable since they met at 15 years old. Please pray for peace of mind for Louise and that she might let those around her reach out to her with help her as she has so cheerfully helped them over the years.
Eric passed away on Saturday 4 July 2010 as the result of a hit and run boat accident. Please pray for the repose of his soul and for his family and friends, in particular Cole and Gabe, who remain here on earth and miss him.
Peaceful Transition
Beatrice
Ruth is in home hospice care.
Prayers for those for whom there is a need for a miracle or understanding of God’s Plan
Sam Bish – Age 9 – who has osteosarcoma, seems to be near the end of his time here on earth absent a God granted miracle. God granted the family a miracle last week. Sam felt wonderful the entire week they were on his Make A Wish trip. He had no pain or discomfort and the family was truly able to make some wonderful memories that they will cherish for a lifetime. On return from the trip, they found out his cancer has spread throughout his body including his lungs, left leg, hip, spine and pelvis area. The extent of Sam's cancer is not curable. He is going home to be with his family for whatever time remains here on earth, continuing to make memories as long as God allows. Please pray for a miracle for Sam and his family, whether to stay or leave.
Jeffrey Hasara (age 16) has been fighting bone cancer for over a year now. He may no longer be a viable surgical candidate, chemotherapy and radiation are no longer practical. There are numerous tumors throughout his body, the one in his left arm / body area has grown tremendously in the last few months. In the words of his father, Mark, “Now is the time to pray for miracles…” Please do.
We get our updates on Jeff from his father Mark, via Shredder Lynott: Mark just called me today, his has gained some strength, but the mass in his remaining armpit has grown. Not a good scenario here Mel, this kid is in a world of hurt and the only thing the doctors say to do is pray, Hell of a thing, huh? So please follow the doctors advice, and pray for young Jeffrey (16). Shredder
In the mean time, we leave you with a letter Jeffrey wrote to his family and friends. Please read and marvel at the great faith of this young man.
A letter from Jeffrey Hasara,
June 11, 2010
To my Family and Friends,
My condition has worsened considerably. On about May 29 the tumor pain started to increase and became constant. On the first of June I had my cancer IV injection port removed and spent the next several days in bed with pain on both sides. I thought I would regain strength. Over the next week my tumor (which had not grown since the priesthood blessing in March) has now tripled in size. Cancer is truly overtaking my body.
Why are we on this earth? To be tried and tested so we may come to know God and we may be found worthy to return to live with him someday. Our faith is tried so it may be strengthened. God allows us to be tested so we may more fully come to know him.
Don't worry or be afraid for me. Pray I might know God. I don't believe anything could test my physical, mental, or spiritual endurance more than the experience I am facing now. But now is not the time to worry about the outcome of whether I live or die. Now is the time to praise God, to petition to see his face and know him better.
Over the last several days my tumor has grown to the point I can't be upright and support the weight without great pain. I can only be up for about 5 minutes at a time. The rest of the time I must be in a laying position. I have been planning and looking forward to a trip to Utah since the first of the year. I have felt this trip was important not only for my enjoyment but to witness to my many cousins, aunts, uncles and family how much God has done for me.
When I was first diagnosed with cancer I was approved by the 'Make a Wish Foundation' to receive a wish. I was told to wish for anything and to think BIG. Over the next several weeks I had fun with friends and family thinking up bigger and bigger wishes. It always surprised me how small people's imagination was. I could not believe a thousand dollar shopping spree (or the like) was the biggest wish many of my friends could come up with.
A couple of nights ago I was praying to Father in Heaven and asking to please just let me go to Utah and have some pain free time with my family camping and enjoying life. Then whatever Gods wants I am ready. As I closed the prayer my mother pointed out to me I was not thinking big enough. Like my friends and 'Make a Wish' I was asking for a simple shopping spree when God stands ready to fulfill my greatest desires.
I have been tried and tested and stand firm in my faith, willing to submit to all things. What would you give to see God and know for sure you will live again through him. After you have given all, would you be afraid or forget to ask to know God? It is time for me to ask that I might receive.
My prayers have been very different the last two days. And I have received some direction from God. First, I was told if the Mormon pioneers could cross the plains with their sick I certainly can find my way to Utah this summer to share my testimony personally with my family. I believe this to be important and God will provide the way.
Second, God told me again I am to live. I will leave that in his hands. After all, who would not give their life to see God's face and know he lives. Yes, I am thinking big and know what ever God grants will strengthen my faith and help me to stand firm in the Gospel for the rest of my life. More importantly, I know I have a mission to fulfill as his special witness to Jesus Christ to bring others home to our Heavenly Father.
God lives and loves us,
Jeff Hasara
Healing
Marge, Karl, Christian, Lois, Jennette (Alzheimer’s), Ruth, Connie, Tom, Crystal, Thomas, Hadley, Diane, Norm, Gregory, Nancy, Bill (infection), Ernie, Ray, Hazel, Bruce (gall bladder surgery this month; waiting for heart transplant), Susanne, Ralph+ (prostate cancer; the doctors are at a loss on the decreasing cancer cell count except prayer; please add your thanksgiving to the prayers for healing.), Allison (kidney), Bill (ETOH poisoning and gout), Kai, Jay, Tim, Diane, Amy (Thyroid cancer), Evelyn, Debbie, Lona (shoulders), Paul (stroke), Doris, Charles, Marie (sprained ankle), June (cancer surgery), Susan, Jeff, David (leg injury), Judy, who suffers from mental illness, is undergoing tests for cancer, Greg, June (cancer), David (leg sprain), Cheri, Ben, Walter (skin cancer), Gabriella (surgery), Curtis, Doyle, Martha, Richard, Ralph+, Jeffrey, Rod, Gary, Mark, Jeffery, Jennifer, Curtis, Steve (cancer), Ashton, Marjorie, Mike G, Dave (knee surgery), Karl (shoulder surgery), Jeffrey (testing), Gary (sepsis; diabetic), Jim (stomach cancer), Jeanette (Alzheimer’s), Kathleen (breast cancer), Mrs. Alvord, Angie, Madge, Betty (Healing from cancer. Betty has completed her chemotherapy after her surgery), Jeannie (testing for breast cancer), Ed, Betty, Karl (Healing of his shoulder injury, but not having surgery), Phil (Thanksgiving for his having received a pacemaker. Phil is suffering from renal failure and other complications), Dave (We had been praying for healing from a tumor. It now may require surgery), Jacque (Healing of her rare form of cancer. It is her second recurrence), Jeannie (cancer tests), Sarah, Stephen, Curtis; Angie, Madge, Veronica, Carmen, Alice, Dave (surgery recovery), Ed S (liver failure), Greg D (leg injury. Greg is making good progress still using a knee brace; Thanksgiving for the progress and requests continued healing), Martin, Pauline, Pat A (Alzheimer’s: things are stable); Charles A (Alzheimer’s: slight improvement in general awareness that he is disappointed not being allowed to drive), Maurice (in ICU with a congenital disease), Susan, George (reoccurrence of cancer, undergoing chemotherapy), Lillian, Rob, Ken, Marlene, Emma W (Brain tumor), Vivian, Kelly (undergoing test unexpectedly), Veronica, Irith, Shirley, TP, David, Mark, Doris, Mary, Ken, Rick, Mike, Don, Sandy, Fern is recovering from a fall which broke her arm and pelvis, Louis, Alan P (Stress test for chest pain), Lydia, Burton (neurological back pain), Terry (Breast Cancer; surgery 3 Aug10)
Jackson Babcock, father of Hope DeLong, asked her to come over to look in on him as he was not feeling well. She found him on the floor. Jackson ended up in the hospital, but it looks like they will be able to get him turned around and back on the road to health. Please give thanks for Hope’s timely attention and God’s Grace. Pray that Jackson will continue to recover, go home, thrive and live a long and fruitful life to God’s honor and glory.
Mrs. Ghana Soundari is suffering from severe bedsores and is in terrible pain. Her blood pressure is very low and her pulse is going down. She is not able to drink or take food. Doctors say they cannot help her. Please pray that God will let healing flow into Ghana and comfort her family, in particular her granddaughter Rita.
Mary Jo for guidance in taking care of her husband.
Betty Macauley, Tim’s mom, is currently in a state of failing health. Please pray she will gain interest in life around her and actively pursue life here on earth. Please pray for her family, in particular her son Tim, as they try to help her.
Lauralee underwent a lumpectomy on Friday after Thanksgiving. A further anomaly has been discovered and she is back into preventative radiation treatment. Please pray for a complete remission of the cancer. Pray also Lauralee will maintain her great attitude and trust in God.
Luca, 5 years old, from our church family in Perth, Western Australia, who has just been diagnosed with leukemia. And for his Mum and Dad and extended family.
Doreen Wolf, mother of Melanie Zimmers, has her cast replaced with a boot. If all goes well she should be able to walk on it in a week or two. But for now, no walking without the boot! Please give thanks for the great results so far and for her being a good patient, hard for a nurse we all know, during her recovery. Finally pray for a good result that Doreen might live a long and healthy life to the glory of God.
Greg Chase asks that you pray for his family:
Diane, Greg’s wife, to see some positive physical signs for the ongoing treatment of her ulcerative colitis.
Phyllis, Greg’s mom, to gain physical strength to overcome her frailties after her recent "small" stroke.
Ed, Greg’s cousin, after a long history of heart issues (two open heart surgeries) to gain physical strength that continues to decline due to a series of other debilitating health issues.
Billy Zoe, Greg’s cousin, seems to be recovering well from a ruptured colon.
Carl, Susanne Barrett’s dad had chest pains while visiting Hawaii. He underwent a successful double by-pass surgery. Please give thanks for the successful surgery and for a full and rapid recovery. Pray for peace of mind for Carl and his wife Judy. Carl believes he is self-made man who thinks he has always been able to do everything himself. Perhaps even more important, please pray for Carl to see the Hand of God in his life.
Michelle Cannariato (a former student of Susanne Barrett) had a stroke on her wedding night as the result of a benign tumor in her heart. She underwent what seems to have been very successful surgery for tumor removal on 20 May 2010, at Scripps-La Jolla. The surgery took several hours less than expected, the tumor is out, all the damage has been repaired and the mitral valve was not involved. Thanks be to God! Give prayers of thanksgiving for God’s gift of grace and the skill and attention of the surgeons and their team. Please pray for peace of mind for Michelle and her husband Nick, as well as a full and rapid recovery for Michelle.
Karl is in ICU with a ruptured colon.
Carol and Rick, Muriel Pappin’s daughter and son-in-law, were in a motorcycle accident. They were banged up, but are now both home and healing. Please pray for their continued recovery and also give prayers of thanks that they were not more seriously injured.
Muriel Pappin’s back has really been causing her a lot of pain and limiting her mobility; it seems to be getting better. Please pray a prayer of thanksgiving for the initial horrible pain is over and pray for her continued improvement.
Rede Acker, Father Acker’s mom, is recovering from her broken leg, just above where she had a knee replacement. Rede has made great progress; she is walking with her walker unassisted. This is huge progress, please pray a prayer of thanksgiving. In Rede’s position, attitude is 100 percent of the game, pray for continued positive attitude. The whole family appreciates your prayers, thank you.
Wanda M is still out work due to her Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis. Please pray for her complete and rapid recovery, as well as her to keep her spirits up while she gets better.
Vince (age 13), reoccurrence of cancer, recent testing found a nickel sized tumor in his lungs. The doctors are consulting with a specialist in Houston. Please pray for guidance for the medical team and for peace of mind for Vince and his family.
Matt Alcantara, age 15, has Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), a very rare and often lethal form of cancer with limited treatment options.
Matt has just made one year since his initial operation, something few get to with this disease. Further thanksgiving is due as his scans are completely clean to date. All looks good for now. Thanks be to God. His attitude is great, he and his family faith is great. Pray they continue to put their trust in God as the time passes. The stress is great and His help sufficient.
His family asks for your prayers for Matt and we ask you to pray also for his family in this time of great stress. You can look at http://www.mattalcantara.com for information. If you want to follow Matt's progress, look at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/mattalcantara.
Danielle’s neck surgery to remove her lymph nodes and damaged tissue was successful. A recent CT Scan, blood work and examination have given her a clean bill of health so far. Danielle will be following up monthly. Please pray a good outcome and peace of mind for Danielle and her family.
Lee Thomas is in assisted living after a stroke. Please pray for Lee, his family, and the care staff. Please pray for Lee, Sandy and their children to maintain their trust in God and to look towards Him for guidance. Pray also for the medical team treating Lee that God might guide and direct their assessment and treatment.
Vicky developed a brain aneurysm, which ruptured the morning of 28 Oc
tober 2009. Vicky’s neighbor Sandy has been updating us periodically and just sent this:
On 28 October 2009, Vicky she told her husband Doug she had a terrible headache. As it turned out she had a ruptured brain aneurysm. After four surgeries and several months in hospitals, nursing homes and a rehabilitation hospital she came home five weeks ago. Considering the fact she was only given a slight chance to pull through and the fear was she would be an invalid and might never understand anything or talk again her coming home was a small miracle. Doug prepared for the worst but never gave hope and he made daily trips to Denver to be with her and their boys also went often.
The last time I saw Vicky was about 2 1/2 months ago when Doug brought her home for the day to attend a baby shower for their daughter-in-law -- first grandchild. She was very unresponsive and when she did respond her voice was barely a whisper. Her words and comments didn't always make sense and talking to her usually brought no response. She seemed totally disconnected. She couldn't feed herself. It was sad. Doug had told me she is making some progress. They have CNA's and therapists there much of each day. Vicky is now taking a few steps, with help, and can stand alone by holding on to a kitchen counter, etc. She is riding a stationary bike an hour twice a day. Of course, someone is always with her so if she starts to fall she can be caught.
Doug has asked me several times to come up for a visit (they live "up" the hill from us). He asked me again this morning, so this afternoon I went up about 2:00 not knowing it was their lunch time. I sat in a chair next to Vicky and said hello and told her she looked great, which she did. Her eyes were bright and she looked like herself again. She thanked me for the comment and then we carried on a conversation. I was stunned and absolutely thrilled. She was "tracking" beautifully. Doug said that she wouldn't remember I'd been there an hour later but as well as she's now doing her short term memory may come back in time, too. When I mentioned I had to leave to go see Lee, Vicky asked me "Where is Lee, isn't he at home?"
Doug asked me to go up and visit with her a few times a week because he says now that seems to be a really good thing for her. I'll be glad to do it if it will help. Vicky still has a long ways to go but seeing how far she's come is a miracle to me. Apparently she now realizes exactly where she is in terms of her disabilities and it frustrates her but I think that frustration will be dealt with by her strong determination. Thanks to all of you for your prayers. I will always believe that had a lot to with getting Vicky this far. Now He just has to help her the rest of the way and we'll pray, literally, that He will. - Sandy
Please pray for Vicky’s recovery and for peace of mind for her family, that they might keep their trust in the Lord.
Obra Gray continues to take day by day, despite still mourning the loss of his beloved wife, Pauline. Please continue to keep Obra in your prayers, and give him the strength of knowing the Lord is with him and will never forsake him. Please God give Obra the peace in his heart he needs, and pray for him to believe the almighty Lord will hold onto him, and not let go until he is in the Lord's arms. Obra needs security of what lies ahead of him, and only the Lord can grant the solace to answer his prayer.
Paula, daughter of Obra Gray, has been diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) one month ago. The disease has impacted her far quicker than anyone can believe. Two months ago, she could walk with the aid of a cane, one month ago she could feed her self. Now she cannot move, cannot walk, cannot feed herself and has no movement from her neck downwards. Obra (Jr.) and Shamim raced down to Florida two weeks ago, to get things moving to get care for Paula and her elderly husband who suffers from severe back problems. They sorted out her insurance needs, found a good neurosurgeon, took her to doctor and physical therapy visits, hired a nursing agency to provide daily nurse care, sought out a charity to loan us hospital beds, wheel chairs, commodes and other equipment etc. Shamim managed to get a local charity (Good Will Easter Seals) to donate some wood for a ramp, and found a church who volunteered to build a wheel chair ramp for Paula this week. The worst thing for Shamim personally was having to tell Paula's kids they had another Mum to whom they could turn to. Please pray for Paula and her family, particularly for her sons Brian and Jimmy, as well as her father Obra.
Cerrus, daughter in law of Hy, has had a relapse of her cancer. Please pray for a successful treatment and remission.
David is suffering from shingles and asks that we pray for a remission of the symptoms and a return to normalcy.
Jimmy had a stroke along with triple bypass heart surgery. Miney Farrell asks you pray for his recovery and positive frame of mind during his recovery.
Annie S has experienced some return of her hearing. She was unable to take one of the medications, so the recovery is slow. She continues receiving dialysis as she awaits a kidney transplant. She has been added to the kidney transplant wait list. Please pray for healing of her diabetic condition causing complications.
Jackie was involved in a rollover car accident, her passenger was not injured, but she sustained a serious head injury. She has regained consciousness and is up and walking. Pray for the medical team treating her that they might do their best. Pray for her and her family who are very worried about her.
Bashir Ahmed, father of Shamim Gray, and father in law of Commander Gray for whom we prayed for while he was deployed in Iraq, and on various carrier deployments, has been blessed with the Lord's breath of life to stay on this earth for the time being. Unfortunately he was involved in a relatively minor automobile accident when he decided to reposition his son’s car and mistook the gas pedal for a brake pedal and rammed into several cars. Please pray for God’s peace of mind for Bashir and his loving wife, who cares for him. Above all, pray for his entire family to open their hearts to accept all God’s love will bring them.
Mary Parker had her pacemaker replaced on Tuesday 6 July 2010. The procedure was completely successful and she feels significantly better. The doctor did restrict her from playing tennis for the next two weeks, so the Wii is parked!
Evelyn Hunt is still having difficulty with her medication. She was back in the hospital for a week. She's at home now. Please pray that the doctor might find the right medication and doses for her treatment. Please pray for God's peace and goodness to surround her.
Miney Farrell had a couple more falls, but nothing as dramatic as a few weeks ago. Being sore and hurting has just slightly dampened her enjoying life on ninety-plus. One of the big pluses are her two doxies and the good folks at the board and care.
Lorraine Winkles is doing pretty well considering the arthritis and all the other things, "I'm not doing too bad," said Lorraine.
Kay Denton (Mrs. Kay) is still home and doing pretty well considering the bones in her neck and hands are degenerating as a side effect of her kidney failure. Her thumbs are not particularly useful any more. Mrs. Kay asks everyone who is praying for her know how grateful she is for their prayers. As always, she retains her trust in the Lord and her positive attitude.
Natalie (age 10, leukemia recurrence) has not responded to any treatment since her relapse. Please pray for God’s grace for Natalie and her family to give them peace of heart, soul and mind.
Guidance
Adam, Tom, Mary, Lloyd & Jennifer to be guided to a church
Breyana, Vie, Asha, Cory, Heather, Holly, William, Phil, Rick, Susan, Curtis, Donny, Chris, Keith (job decision), Sara (God's grace and His patience), Mark, Alexandra, Perlita, Lewis, Susie, Dru, Jack, Tina, William, Christina, Tuck, Jeff, Christiana (God’s grace), Tara (divorce), Errin, Elizabeth, Brandon, Steven, Nelson, Ashley, Betty who is considering moving into an assisted living home, Nick, Pat, Caroline, Stephen, Greg (vocation guidance and training for the diaconate), Stephanie, Richard, Daniel, Sheryl, Edward, Jeannie, Rachel, Mikaela, Patrick, Mary (adoption); Ashley (job); Curt; Angelina & Ron C; Steven (strength); Vanessa H (trust), Jackie (God's grace), Sandy (Relief from stress; Her husband has severe medical problems), Jennifer, Margie, Phyllis, Sam (guidance on direction of his business), Tara (divorce), Virginia, Darin & Brian (mom’s health issues), Jeanie (upset over her husband's cancer problems), Curt (Still providing care for his wife, Jacque, who is undergoing chemotherapy), Alex, Emilie, Stephen, Daniel S, Jan, Tamera (her house is being taken by eminent domain and is in settlement phase; pray for a fair settlement), Rachel, Stephen, Paul, Seth C, Alan P (to control his feelings), Cris, Louis R (re-set court date), Sean, Lesa, Kenny, Carmen, Jeff, Jane (Bereavement of Caroline's death), Elizabeth B (Graduation from High School; preparation for Point Loma Nazarene), Kenny P (Graduation from High School), John, Cole, Gabe, Toni as she cares for Terry who is undergoing breast cancer treatment
Louis is in need of God's guidance and direction. Please pray that Louis might see God’s outstretched hand to him and guide him in all he does.
Mark Thomans is in need of God's guidance and direction. Please pray that Mark might take note God’s outstretched hand to him and accept his guidance in all he does.
Nick, age 90, grandfather of Dominique Mimnagh, friends of our Langstaff family members in Perth, is a UK citizen who suffers from various health issues, including what appears to be the onset of dementia. He has lived with his daughter Tina for 45 years. A year ago he moved to Perth with Tina, who is a permanent resident, on a temporary visa to be with his family. Immigration officials have refused to renew the temporary visa. Nick is faced with being forced to return to the UK, where he has no home and little family. Your prayers are so appreciated. Currently, he is on medical hold because his doctor has said that he cannot fly due to irregular heartbeat. Please pray the immigration authorities will not stamp his visa with an 8503 which would mean they will not be able grant him an "AGE DEPENDENT VISA” so he and Tina can stay with her sister (who has lived in Perth for 10 years) who she is very close to. If Nick has to return to the UK, Tina will go back as well and that will break her sister’s heart and Dominique’s too. Please pray the immigration authorities will reconsider their refusal to renew the visa or that the family will come upon a solution that will be in the best interests of all concerned. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Nick, Tina, Dominique and the rest of their family.
Ryan, Stephanie, Lisa and Jack – please pray for them as they deal with the loss of their friend Wanda.
Joan had just started her recovery from two back operations when she was given bad news, which she was unable to deal with on top of her physical problems. Things are looking up now. She is home and happy to be there. She has a new granddaughter, Eli, for whom she is grateful. Please pray Joan will look to God for the help He can give her, to help her accept those things she cannot change and change those things she can. Pray also for her husband Bob, that he might keep his mind clear to help Joan.
Ali is searching for spiritual meaning; may the Holy Ghost guide those around her to help her in coming to Christ.
Jacquie to open her heart to God and accept His Love and Grace.
Noriene for God's comfort as she mourns her mother and for her to turn to God for His healing.
Paul S asked everyone to give thanks that his doctor is adjusting his medication for severe schizophrenia.
Hap asks you to pray that he might be able to trust God will help him make the right decisions at the right time and not to worry uselessly and that he will open his heart to the Holy Ghost.
Guidance and Protection
Christina, Sarah
Economic Guidance and Assistance
Keith has been unable to find any full-time work since his custom home drafting business of 25 years really dropped off last year. He is working as a handyman, doing tile work, painting, home repairs, etc. Their family has a great deal of debt from Susanne’s medical needs. Pray also for God's peace to comfort them and for His leading and wisdom to be very evident to them.
Mark’s business is very very slow, he asks that God point him to new markets and give him guidance in following God’s will that his business might survive and his employees not lose their livelihood.
To Find Employment
Sandra asks that you pray she will be able to find new employment in which she can use her considerable talents to make her new employer more successful. Please pray for her as she searches that she might maintain a good attitude while she looks for work and to look to God for guidance and not her inner self.
Father Keith is looking for additional employment to supplement his part-time stipend at Blessed Trinity. Keith believes his expertise lies in web site development and guitar teaching, both of which he is clearly good at. Please pray the Holy Ghost will enter into his heart and give him inspiration and guidance to lead him to a job which will use his considerable skills to support his family, bless the company he joins and further God’s Work, all together.
Jack has been laid off from his job as a construction manager in East San Diego County; due to the economy jobs in the field are hard to find. Please pray that Jack will find a job, not necessarily in the construction, that will allow him to use his considerable skills and talents to make his new employer more successful; guide him and his family is this difficult time.
Stephen, Peter, Brad, Brian, Russell, Kris, Keith and Kevin each to find a job that will allow them to use their skill and talent to make their new employer more successful.
Homebound/Aged and Infirm
Mary, Donna, Betty, Noko, Adelaide, Evelyn, Lorraine, Ellie, Ray (Alzheimer’s Disease)
Armed Forces & Contractors
Tillman, Justin, Evan, RJ, Matt, Phillip, Julian, John Kelly (USN - USS Ronald Reagan), Evan (USMC-Afghanistan), Stuart (USMC-Afghanistan), Airman Donny Patton (RAF Mildenhall, UK), Bob (USCG), Josh (USCG), Rachel Ziegler (USAF – Deployed to Southwest Asia), Aaron Huber (USNMC – Deployed to Southwest Asia with USMC), Julian (USMC: Russia until 1 July 2010)
Persecuted
Around the world, Christians are under attack, not only in the Muslim world, but from Hindus and others in India. Also, they are under continual attack in the name of “Separation of Church and State” in the western world, as it becomes actively atheist or pro-devil buddy. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.
Thanksgiving
Kenny Parker and Jack Arnold give thanks for their graduation from high school and pray for God’s guidance as they move to the next phase of their lives.
Obra, known to us as Commander O, has retired from the Navy after 20 years and found a job as a financial consultant with TASC. The Gray family gives thanks for Obra’s finding a job in this difficult environment.
Allan gives thanks for tests clearing his potential heart condition.
Various Special Requests
Sid Barnes, a missionary with Calvary Chapel of Costa Mesa, California, to West Africa, is “missing” -- possibly in Ghana. He has not been heard of since he arrived in Accra, the capital city, on a British Airways flight from London, on Thursday, 18 March 2010, at 0900 and was missing when his assistant arrived to pick him up at 1030. Please pray for his return to family, friends and safety.
We ask that you pray, please ask God that the Holy Ghost might give you insight into how you might make the lives of your friends and family better. Remember helping others is not just those who you don’t know!
Please join us in praying for God to fill us with the Holy Ghost, even if (or maybe particularly if) we need Him shoved down our throats, to provide inspiration to grow our little church to the glory of God. Our numbers are static, we need God’s inspiration to figure out the next step. Please pray that we will open our heart to the gentle prodding of the Holy Ghost; and not do what we have always done expecting a different result.
Please join us in praying that the Free Teen Guitar Class will be continue to be an opportunity for God to work in the lives of the kids and their families. Please ask God to guide the class to new opportunities to make Him known to others. Help us to let the love of our Lord shine through us into their lives, putting Him first, so that He might enter in to their hearts and lives.
National Prayer Time - If Christians really understood the full extent of the power we have available through prayer, we might be speechless. During WWII an advisor to Churchill organized a group of people who dropped what they were doing every day at a prescribed hour for one minute to collectively pray for the safety of England, its people and peace?
This thought has been taken up here and now, if you would like to participate, pray every day at:
9:00 pm 8:00 pm 7:00 pm 6:00 pm
Eastern Time Central Time Mountain Time Pacific Time
Stop what you are doing and spend one minute praying for the United States, our troops, our citizens and for a return to a Godly nation. It won’t work unless you participate. Encourage others to join us.
Who is Saint James?
James, son of Zebedee (died 44) or Yaakov Ben-Zebdi/Bar-Zebdi, was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus. He was a son of Zebedee and Salome, and brother of John the Apostle. He is also called James the Greater to distinguish him from James, son of Alphaeus, who is also known as James the Less. James is described as one of the first disciples to join Jesus. The Synoptic Gospels state that James and John were with their father by the seashore when Jesus called them to follow him. According to the Gospel of Mark, James and John were called Boanerges, or the "Sons of Thunder" and also the "Saintly Brothers of Martyrdom". James was one of only three apostles whom Jesus selected to bear witness to his Transfiguration. The Acts of the Apostles records that Agrippa I had James executed by sword.
Question that only you can ask
What would you like to know about our history, what we believe, what we do or how we operate? Father Acker is looking for material for the continuing education class and the Beadle is looking for Thought for the Day material. Help us help you. Please send your question to the Beadle so we all can get an answer. Just because you don’t know the answer to your question doesn’t mean you are the only one who doesn’t know. But, if you don’t ask, no one will know.
I’d like to get a different point across or announce something
If you have a different point of view, I would be happy to give you room to get your point across. While this publication is my perspective on events, I recognize not everyone may agree and that some people would like to express their own opinion. If you want to write something, please forward your item to the Beadle (with a note as to whether or not you would like editing help) to: thebeadle@mac.com.
Epistle Readers
We post the list of Epistle Readers in the Beadle’s Report each week so you can either plan your attendance or your pre-reading as the spirit so moves you.
Date Reader
1 August 2010 Dru Arnold
8 August 2010 Hap Arnold
15 August 2010 Jan Macauley
22 August 2010 Ben Lizak
29 August 2010 Holly Lizak
The near future, as well as Next Sunday
You can go on line here and see our church calendar. There is also a link to subscribe. If you have problems finding this page, due to the typing requirement, go to the Beadle’s Blog or email the Beadle at thebeadle@mac.com for an emailed link.
Calendar Location - http://go.to/alpineanglicancalendar
Also, if we can get just five more members on our church Facebook Group page, we can have a name instead of a number. Help us get a name for go here and sign up for free:
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?v=wall&gid=316981576902
http://www.groups.to/alpineanglicanchurch
Or, email the Beadle at thebeadle@mac.com for an emailed link.
Friday
30 July 2010 – Free Teen Guitar Class Jam Session at Albertsons / Starbucks in Alpine, CA Food afterwards, no doubt - Time 1830 (6:30 pm); Location – Alpine Albertsons - 2955 Alpine Boulevard, Alpine, CA
Saturday
31 July 2010 – Pine Valley Parade – The parade starts at 0900. Meet at the Arnolds’ No Later Than 0800 to board vehicles for the parade. There will be a BBQ at the Arnolds’ home after the parade. Weiner Dogs, buns, fixings and beans will be provided (even some dogs with no shoulders for Jan). You are encouraged to bring something to go with it all! Time 0800 (8:00 am); Location – Rat Haus – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
Sunday
1 August 2010 – Seventh Sunday after Trinity – Free Teen Guitar Class Sunday, all guitar music for the worship service. Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service starting about 0945 (9:45 am). Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – Alpine Elementary School Auditorium – 1850 Alpine Boulevard, Alpine, CA
Tuesday
3 August 2010 - Comedian Tim Hawkins at the Rock Church, Point Loma at 7:00pm. The ticket deadline has passed but you can get tickets directly from TimHawkins.net. Tim is a Christian comedian and definitely worth an evening of laughter. Check out his video at YouTube.
See you next week on Sunday!
